Orientation
Las Vegas has two main tourist areas you should know: The Strip and Downtown (Fremont Street).
These areas offer very different experiences, while the rest of the city surrounds them with local neighborhoods and attractions.
Las Vegas has always been a city of spectacle, but it’s also a place of constant change.
In this collection, we go beyond the clichés to explore Las Vegas in full. You’ll find guides, seasonal insights, and budget planning, as well as deeper looks at culture, economy, and the challenges facing the city.
The Strip
The Strip is a 4-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard lined with the mega-resorts, casinos, and attractions most people picture when they think of Vegas. It’s actually just south of Las Vegas city limits, in an area called Paradise.
Along the Strip you’ll find dozens of huge themed hotels (like Venetian or Caesars Palace), each with casinos, shops, restaurants, and shows inside. The atmosphere is glitzy, busy, and packed with neon signs and crowds.
Distances are longer than they appear – walking the entire Strip end-to-end isn’t practical , so plan to focus on sections or use transportation. This is the heart of tourist Vegas, where most first-timers stay and spend their time.
Expect bustling sidewalks, spectacular sights like the Bellagio Fountains, and entertainment at every turn.
Downtown (Fremont Street)
Downtown is Las Vegas’s original casino district, about 2 miles north of the Strip. Centered on Fremont Street, it offers a more “Old Vegas” experience. The focal point is the Fremont Street Experience, a five-block pedestrian mall covered by a giant LED canopy.
Here you’ll see vintage neon signs, free hourly light-and-sound shows overhead, live bands, street performers, and iconic casinos like the Golden Nugget. Downtown is much smaller and more walkable than the Strip – you can easily stroll between casinos, bars, and restaurants.
It also tends to be more relaxed and less expensive: hotels, gambling, and drinks are generally cheaper downtown than on the Strip. The vibe is a bit grittier and more casual, with a mix of tourists and locals. At night Fremont Street gets very lively (and loud) with concerts and crowds.
Security is present, and under-18s aren’t allowed unaccompanied on Fremont Street after 9 PM on weekends , so it’s essentially an adults-oriented nightlife scene after dark.
Surrounding Areas
Beyond these two hubs, the greater Las Vegas area includes many off-Strip hotels and local casinos scattered around town, as well as the ordinary business and residential neighborhoods where locals live. First-time visitors typically stay in the tourist core (Strip/Downtown), but if you venture out you’ll find places like Chinatown (a dining area west of the Strip) or suburbs like Summerlin and Henderson with their own malls and casinos. Just outside the city are natural attractions – for example, Red Rock Canyon (30 minutes west) offers desert hiking, and Hoover Dam (about 45 minutes southeast) is a popular day trip. It’s good to know Vegas isn’t all gambling and neon; there’s more to explore in the surrounding region if you have time. But for orientation, remember that “Las Vegas” for visitors essentially means the Strip and Downtown – that’s where the action is concentrated.
How to Get to Las Vegas
Las Vegas is well-connected and easy to reach by air or road. Here are the primary ways to get there:
- By Air: Most visitors arrive via Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), the city’s main airport. It’s conveniently located just a couple of miles east of the Strip – only about a 15-minute drive to most hotels. This airport offers numerous flights daily (over a thousand) from around the U.S. and many international cities. After landing, you can get to your hotel by taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or rental car (see “Transportation” below). There are smaller airports (North Las Vegas Airport, Henderson Executive) but those are used for general aviation or private flights; LAS is the hub for commercial airlines.
- By Car: Driving to Las Vegas is common, especially from regional cities. Interstate 15 is the major highway that runs through Vegas. From Southern California (Los Angeles area) it’s about 4–5 hours northeast via I-15. The same interstate comes in from the northeast (Utah). From Arizona or the Phoenix area, you’ll likely take US-93/I-11 through Hoover Dam; I-11 is a newer interstate that connects toward Vegas. Interstate 11/US-93 approaches from the southeast (Kingman, AZ) and will eventually form a direct Las Vegas–Phoenix highway. From Northern Nevada (Reno/Lake Tahoe), US-95/I-11 comes down south to Las Vegas. All these highways converge near the city. The drive into Vegas is straightforward, and you’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the skyline of hotel towers and the glow of the Strip in the distance.
- By Bus: Several intercity bus services connect to Las Vegas if you prefer not to drive. Greyhound is the major long-distance bus line with a station in Downtown Las Vegas, and other companies (Megabus, FlixBus, Tufesa, etc.) also operate routes. You can find bus connections from cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and more. Bus travel times can be long (e.g. 5–6+ hours from Los Angeles) but are an affordable option. Buses typically drop off downtown or at Strip transit centers, depending on the carrier.
- By Train: There is currently no passenger train service to Las Vegas. Amtrak’s Desert Wind train used to stop here but was discontinued in 1997. A high-speed rail project from California is in development, but for now, you cannot get to Vegas by Amtrak or rail. If you’re traveling by train, the closest you can get is via an Amtrak thruway bus from a California station. Plan on flying or driving for the foreseeable future.
What Las Vegas Is Known For
Las Vegas bills itself as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” and for good reason.
It’s an internationally renowned resort city known primarily for gambling, shopping, fine dining, entertainment, and nightlife.
Here’s an overview of the key experiences and attractions first-time visitors associate with Vegas:
- Casinos & Gambling: Gambling is everywhere in Las Vegas – it’s the foundation of the city’s tourism. On the Strip, nearly every resort hotel contains a sprawling casino filled with slot machines and table games. Downtown’s Fremont area also has classic casino halls. You can try your luck at anything from penny slots to high-stakes poker. Keep in mind the legal gambling age is 21 in Nevada , and casinos strictly enforce it – expect to show ID if you appear underage. If you’re not 21, you can walk through casinos with an adult but you cannot stop to play or even linger by the machines. For those of age, Las Vegas offers everything from sports betting to roulette 24 hours a day. Even if you’re not a big gambler, seeing the elaborate casino floors is a quintessential Vegas experience.
- Spectacular Shows: Las Vegas is famous for its live entertainment. On any given night, you’ll find world-class shows – including Cirque du Soleil productions, magic acts by the likes of David Copperfield, comedy shows, concerts by superstar musicians, tribute shows, adult revues, and more. Several major resorts have their own theaters hosting resident shows and headliners. For example, you can see acrobatic extravaganzas (Cirque’s O at Bellagio or KÀ at MGM Grand), celebrity music residencies, broadway-style productions, or one-of-a-kind acts. Many shows are family-friendly, but some late-night or burlesque shows are 18+. It’s wise to book tickets in advance for popular performances. Also, don’t miss the free spectacles: the Bellagio fountain show, Mirage volcano eruption, or Fremont Street’s LED canopy show. Entertainment is truly around every corner – Las Vegas earned its reputation by dazzling visitors with performances you won’t find elsewhere.
- Nightlife & Clubs: After the shows, the city’s famous nightlife kicks into high gear. Las Vegas has countless bars, lounges, and nightclubs. The Strip’s mega-clubs (in hotels like Caesars, Wynn, or MGM) are essentially giant dance parties with renowned DJs, high-end light/sound systems, and crowds dancing until dawn. Popular clubs enforce strict entry policies and dress codes (usually 21+ only). Be prepared for lines and cover charges if you go late without a reservation. Besides clubs, there are piano bars, cocktail lounges, sports bars, and casino bars everywhere – you can always find a place for a late-night drink. Downtown offers a more low-key bar scene, with cheaper drinks, live music on Fremont Street, and quirky local bars in the Arts District. Alcohol flows freely in Vegas nightlife, and it’s legal to carry alcoholic drinks in plastic cups along the Strip or Fremont Street. Just do so responsibly – public intoxication can still get you in trouble. Overall, if you enjoy nightlife, Vegas will not disappoint: the city stays alive 24/7, and “last call” is virtually nonexistent in the tourist areas.
- Dining & Buffets: Las Vegas has evolved into a food lover’s destination. You’ll find everything from $2 shrimp cocktails to Michelin-starred gourmet meals. Many hotels host restaurants by celebrity chefs (Gordon Ramsay, Joël Robuchon, Wolfgang Puck, and others all have venues here) and offer high-end dining spanning every cuisine. Reservations are recommended for the most popular spots. For a classic Vegas experience, try a buffet – many resorts have an elaborate all-you-can-eat buffet brunch or dinner, featuring enormous spreads of international food (the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace and Wynn’s buffet are famous, for example). Casual options are plentiful too: food courts, 24-hour cafés, cheap eats downtown, and late-night snacks are easy to find. Fine dining attire might be required at upscale restaurants, but generally Vegas is a come-as-you-are town for dining. Whether you want a quick slice of pizza or a luxurious tasting menu, Las Vegas has it. Don’t forget to stay hydrated as you indulge – the desert climate and all that walking can sneak up on you.
Essentials for First-Time Visitors
Age Restrictions:
In Nevada, the legal age for almost all adult activities is 21. This means 21+ for gambling and for consuming alcoholic beverages. Casinos will card anyone who looks underage, and by law they cannot allow under-21s to gamble or even stand around the gaming areas. I
f you are under 21, you can still enjoy Las Vegas (there are shows, rides, attractions that welcome younger visitors), but you must avoid gambling floors and cannot drink alcohol. Nightclubs and many bars are also 21+ only. Some events and concert venues admit 18+ or all ages, but those are exceptions.
Additionally, unaccompanied minors (under 18) have a curfew in Las Vegas – officially they should not be out on the Strip or Downtown after 9 or 10 PM at night. This is to ensure safety. If you’re traveling with anyone under 18, be mindful of the time in the evenings.
And for hotel check-in, most resorts require the primary guest to be 21 or older (a few downtown hotels allow 18+ check-in). In summary, Las Vegas is predominantly an adult playground – families and under-21s are welcome, but there are restrictions on what younger visitors can do.
Safety Basics:
Las Vegas is generally a safe tourist destination with a strong police and security presence in the resort areas. Still, it’s a big city, so use common sense. Stick to the main tourist areas (Strip and Fremont Street), especially at night. These areas are well-lit and crowded; by contrast, wandering into poorly lit side streets or off-strip neighborhoods is not advisable for newcomers.
If you’re out late, consider taking a taxi or rideshare instead of walking long distances in the dark. Keep your valuables secure – don’t flash large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
Sadly, petty theft can occur, so watch out for pickpockets in crowded spots and never leave your phone or purse unattended. Stay aware of scams: common ones in Vegas include street games (three-card monte shell games – avoid those), characters who want a photo then demand a big tip, or “VIP” club promoters promising the world.
Politely decline offers that seem too good to be true. When drinking, do so responsibly – know your limits, and never accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended. The city’s party reputation is fun, but over-intoxication can make you a target for theft or other issues.
Also note that while recreational marijuana is legal in Nevada, it’s illegal to use it in public or in casinos/hotels, so don’t light up on the Strip. If you drive, absolutely do not drink and drive (DUI laws are strictly enforced).
In any emergency, dial 911; for non-emergencies you can call 311 for police assistance. Overall, Las Vegas is safe for tourists who take basic precautions. You’ll see uniformed and plainclothes officers around, as well as hotel security. Use the same street smarts you would in any major city, and you’ll be fine.
Dress Code:
Las Vegas doesn’t have a single dress code, because it depends on where you’re going. In general, casual attire is perfectly fine for walking around the Strip, touring attractions, and gambling in casinos. Especially in the hot summer, you’ll see people in shorts and t-shirts by day.
There’s no need to dress up just to play slot machines – as one guide says, “as long as you have money to gamble, casinos don’t really mind what you’re wearing, aside from shirts and shoes”.
That said, if you plan to hit the nightclubs or upscale restaurants, you will need to dress more upscale. Nightclubs enforce strict dress codes – typically no athletic gear, no baseball caps or jerseys, no shorts, and no flip-flop sandals for anyone. Men are safest wearing nice jeans or slacks with a collared shirt and proper shoes.
Women have more flexibility but should avoid overly casual attire at clubs. Many high-end nightclubs won’t admit guys in sneakers or tank tops, for example, regardless of the heat.
For fancy restaurants and shows, business casual is usually adequate (jeans and a neat shirt or a dress is fine), unless you’re going somewhere explicitly formal. It’s a good idea to pack at least one nicer outfit if you plan on upscale nightlife or dining, so you won’t feel out of place or be turned away at the door.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for daytime because you’ll be doing a lot of walking. In summary, by day almost anything goes, but by night, have some decent attire ready if you want to experience Vegas’ high-end venues.
Transportation and Visitor Services
Getting around Las Vegas and finding help is relatively easy for newcomers. Here are some basic services and tips to know:
- Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Vegas and a convenient way to get from the airport to your hotel or around town. However, note that you cannot hail a taxi on the street in the resort areas. Taxis must pick up at designated taxi stands or driveways (like at hotel entrances). Every hotel has a clearly marked taxi pickup area, usually near the lobby or valet. Just follow the signs or ask staff. Fares from the airport to the Strip are typically around $20–30 (more if you’re going farther north or downtown). Be aware of a practice called “long-hauling” – sometimes drivers take a longer route via the highway to increase the fare. You can politely request “no tunnel, please” (meaning the shorter surface streets) to avoid that, or just use a rideshare where the route is set. Taxis are available 24/7, and during peak times (weekend nights) you may have to wait in line at the hotel taxi queue. Tip: It’s customary to tip taxi drivers (15%).
- Rideshares (Uber/Lyft): Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft operate all over Las Vegas and are often a cheaper alternative to taxis. You will need to use their mobile app to request a car. One thing to know: on the Strip, rideshare pickups are also restricted to certain areas (usually the same places taxis pick up, or a specified rideshare lot at big resorts). Follow the app’s instructions to the designated pickup spot – hotels often have signs for “Rideshare Pickup” in the parking garage or a side entrance. Prices can surge during busy times (late night after shows, for example), but you’ll see the fare upfront in the app. A typical ride from the airport to mid-Strip on Uber/Lyft might be $15–20. Many visitors find rideshares to be very convenient for getting between casinos if it’s too far to walk. Note: If you need a larger vehicle or have lots of luggage from the airport, you can order an UberXL or similar. As with taxis, tipping your driver a few dollars via the app or in cash is appreciated.
- Monorail & Trams: The Las Vegas Monorail is a quick transit option along the east side of the Strip. This elevated monorail runs parallel to the Strip for 3.9 miles, with seven stations: MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris, Flamingo, Harrah’s/The LINQ, Las Vegas Convention Center, Westgate, and Sahara. Trains arrive every few minutes and can zip you from one end to the other in about 15 minutes, avoiding street traffic. It’s great if your hotel or destinations are near a station. However, note that it runs behind the east-side hotels, so if you’re on the west side of the Strip (like at Bellagio or Mirage), you’d have to walk to a station. Monorail tickets cost around $5 one-way or $13 for an unlimited day pass (you can purchase via machines or mobile). It operates until midnight (2am on weekends). In addition to the monorail, some free hotel trams connect adjacent resorts on the west side of the Strip: for example, there’s a free tram linking Mirage and Treasure Island, and another connecting Bellagio with Aria and Park MGM. These are handy short hops but don’t cover the whole Strip. Overall, the monorail and trams can save you some walking if you plan your route.
- Buses: The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) runs public buses throughout Las Vegas, including the main tourist corridors. The most useful for visitors is the Deuce – a double-decker bus line that runs 24/7 along the Strip, stopping at virtually every hotel from the south end (near the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign/Airport) up to downtown. It’s slow (due to frequent stops), but it’s affordable and air-conditioned. A 2-hour pass is around $6 and a 24-hour pass about $8. There is also an express bus called the SDX (Strip/Downtown Express) or DVX that has limited stops between the Strip and downtown (as of 2025, check RTC schedules as these services can change). In Downtown, the city operates the Downtown Loop, a free shuttle that circles key downtown attractions like Fremont Street, the Arts District, and the North Premium Outlets. If you’re staying off-Strip or want to explore outside the tourist areas, the RTC city bus network can take you to malls, neighborhoods, and even out to Summerlin or Henderson, but frequencies vary. For most tourists, the Deuce or monorail will cover your needs. Tip: Bus stops on the Strip have digital signs with wait times. It can be very hot waiting in the sun, so carry water.
- Visitor Information: If you need help or brochures, Las Vegas does have a Visitor Information Center run by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. It’s located at 3150 Paradise Road (at the Las Vegas Convention Center). The center is open weekdays (Mon–Fri, roughly 8am-5pm). There you can pick up free maps, visitor guidebooks, and ask questions. They can also assist with booking tours, show tickets, or last-minute hotel reservations. Additionally, most major hotels have a concierge desk that can provide directions and make reservations for you. On the Strip, you’ll see plenty of free magazines and coupon books for tourists – feel free to grab those as they contain maps and discounts. For official info online, the website VisitLasVegas.com is the city’s tourism portal with event calendars and tips. And if you have any issues as a tourist (lost property, safety concern, etc.), you can always reach out to hotel security or the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police tourist safety unit for assistance. Rest assured, Vegas is well-prepared for visitors – help is always nearby.
Las Vegas can feel overwhelming at first, but with this guide you have the essentials covered. From understanding the lay of the land (Strip vs. Downtown) to arriving, getting around, and knowing the rules, you’re now equipped to navigate the city confidently.
Remember to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the incredible variety of entertainment on offer. Las Vegas truly has something for everyone. Have a fantastic first trip, and welcome to “Fabulous Las Vegas”!
