Las Vegas Travel Guide

Some facts about Las Vegas

'Las Vegas' means 'the meadows' in Spanish, a name given by Spanish explorers due to the desert valley's grassy meadows and soil that provided life-saving water supplies. While plenty of that natural beauty remains, nowadays these meadows have a distincly neon glow thanks to the weird and wonderful hotels, resorts and casinos that line the famous Las Vegas Strip.

The city was founded in 1905 after a railroad linking LA and Salt Lake City was opened, and urbanised in 1931 when work started on the neaby Hoover Dam. With a little help from the Mob, theatres and casinos started popping up to keep these new Vegas residents from getting bored.

Fast forward to today and the Wild West image and Mob rule that dominated Vegas has been replaced by entertainment, extravagence and excess. It has more AAA Five Diamond hotels than any other city in the world and has made it possible to walk from New York to Venice via Paris (kind of).

The masterminds behind Vegas know how to do tourism. There's something to keep everyone entertained, from the gambling, nightlife and world-class performances that make the headlines to the canyons, art and unique exhibitions that make it such an interesting place to explore.

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Practical Info

Culture and etiquette

Religion

Most Americans think of themselves as religious or spiritual in some way. The USA has the largest population of Christians in the world, and there's a wide variety of religious communities throughout the country.

Tipping and paying for things

One of the main things tourists get caught out with in America is the sales tax. The price on the label is often not the full price you'll pay, which can be a nasty shock at the till if you're not prepared for it. The sales tax varies from state to state and between different cities – for Las Vegas in 2023 it's 8.38%.

Tipping is standard practice in the US, and Las Vegas is no exception. Service industry workers are often paid a low wage with the expectation that tips will make up the shortfall. In restaurants a tip of around 15% to 20% will do the trick – remember to check a service charge hasn't already been added to your bill. When heading to the bar, tip $1 to $2 per drink or 15% if you're running a tab.

And don't forget casino dealers – it's common to tip $5 or more for bigger wins.

Smoking

Smoking laws in the US vary from state to state. In Nevada, smoking is banned in most indoor public places like bars, restaurants and malls. The casinos and resorts are a different story, many of which have indoor smoking areas. Hotels have different policies, with many allowing smoking on the casino floor and in rooms.

If you fancy a flutter but don't fancy being greeted by that distinct smokey smell, Park MGM is your best bet. Vegas' first completely smoke-free casino is still the only completely smoke-free casino on the strip. Another good option is Plaza where you'll find the Brian Christopher Slots area, downtown's first smoke-free gaming space.

Language 101

While they speak English in Vegas, travellers may discover a language barrier on the casino floor if they've never gambled before. Here are a few helpful words and phrases for all you wannabee high rollers:

• Action – Can refer to the total money put on a bet by you or the whole table.
• Bankroll – The amount of money you have to gamble with.
• Buy-in – The cost of entry for the game you want to play.
• Cage – Where you can exchange chips for cash or vice versa.
• Chips – Don't eat these. These little round tokens are the currency you use to gamble with.
• Double down – A blackjack term, you can double your stake but only get one more card. A risky strategy.
• Flop – In poker, the flop is the round where all three cards are dealt face up.
• Hot & Cold – If you're running hot, you're on a winning streak. If you're running cold, you're on a losing streak.
• High roller – Players that have a lot of money to bet with and play at higher stakes.
• House – Remember, the house always wins. The house in question is the casino, so be careful where you put your money.
• Whale – Similar to high rollers, but with an even bigger bankroll to play with.

Jabs, visas and other advice

For up-to-date advice on jabs, visas and other foreign advice, we recommend following the government's website.

Emergency numbers

For an emergency, call 911.

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What's the weather like in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas was built slap bang in the middle of a desert, so it can get a bit hot to say the least. Summer sees average highs of around 40°C, which drops to 18°C in the winter. You'll find a happy median of 25 to 30°C in spring and autumn months.

It stays dry throughout the year, so you'll be unlucky if you have to bring out your umbrella. Just remember to pack lots of factor 50.

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When's the best time to visit Las Vegas?

It's worth repeating – the high desert climate in Las Vegas makes a summer breeze feel more like a hairdryer. If you can handle the heat in summer it can be a great time to visit as others may avoid travelling.

The shoulder seasons are the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds – these fall January to March (largely before Spring Break) and then September to November when US citizens are mostly back to work. And as a bonus, this is when you'll find the cheapest flights.

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Getting to Las Vegas

The main airlines that fly directly to Las Vegas are Virgin Atlantic and British Airways. Prices from Gatwick and Heathrow start at around £600 – book well in advance for the best deal.

Harry Reid International Airport is right in the heart of the city, making it easy to get to your hotel.

Shuttle bus

There's a shuttle bus that runs to most hotels on the Strip which is a cheap and easy way to get to your hotel. It isn't always the quickest though – it makes lots of stops, so if your hotel is right at the end you're going to be there a while.

Airport transfer

It'll cost you a little more, but booking an airport transfer is a quicker and more direct way of getting to your hotel.

Taxi

One of the fastest ways to get to your hotel is jumping in a taxi, but bear in mind you'll be paying a premium for the convenience. There are plenty of taxi ranks at the airport, as well as Uber and Lyft ranks.

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Getting around Las Vegas

Walking

Chances are you'll spend the majority of the time on the Strip, and the best way to explore its famous sites is on foot. Bridges mean you'll rarely have to wait to cross the road in the busiest bit, and many resorts and casinos are connected so you won't even have to step outside to get between them.

It's worth pointing out the Strip is huge. The Las Vegas sign on the southernmost point is 4.9 miles from the STRAT in the north, so it would be quite an achievement to see everything on foot in a day. There are plenty of options to speed things up if you're strapped for time.

By bus

Buses run frequently along the Strip from the South Strip Terminal all the way to downtown. A single costs $4, or you can get a 2-hour pass for $6, a day pass for $8 and a 3-day pass for $20. You can buy tickets from the driver with exact change or at vending machine using cash or card.

By taxi or Uber

You'll find taxi ranks outside most resorts along the Strip and in downtown, where you can queue for a taxi or catch an Uber or a Lyft. You're not allowed to hail a cab on the street, so do seek out a rank if you need a taxi.

By car

It's easy to hire a car in Las Vegas, and it's a great option if you're planning on visiting lots of places while you're in the country. Vegas is a popular pit stop for road trippers – a scenic drive could take you to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, LA or Phoenix.

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Where to stay in Las Vegas

The Strip

This is the Las Vegas you've seen in all the movies. Lined with extravagent hotels, resorts and casinos, the Vegas Strip is your best bet if you want to stay in the heart of the city and have easy access to major attractions, shows and nightlife.

Whether you're on a budget or looking for luxury, there's a hotel to suit every traveller. The LINQ, Paris Las Vegas and The Flamingo are right in the centre of the strip and great options if you're on a budget, while Bellagio and the Venetian sit at the other end of the scale offering the most indulgent of hotel experiences.

Just make sure to check the resort fees before you travel. You'll have to pay a nightly fee at most hotels when you get there, which can add up particularly for hotels on the Strip – it's around $45 a night plus tax at Bellagio, so remember to budget for this.

Downtown

Downtown is where you'll find classic casinos from Old Vegas like the Golden Nugget. It's also home to the Fremont Street Experience, which is covered by the football field-sized Viva Vision canopy displaying a psychadelic light show that dazzles revellers as they hop from bar to casino. Live music, DJs and shows take place every night, creating a lively festival atmosphere worth experiencing.

There's an excellent arts district too, where you'll discover street art, breweries and taprooms on every corner. Able Baker Brewing, HUDLE and The Silver Stamp call it their home to name a few, as do plenty of restaurants and museums. Elsewhere, the Neon Museum displays bright neon signs from Old Vegas, The Mob Museum offers a fascinating insight into the role of organised crime in America and dive bar Atomic Liquors promises excellent craft beers and is a popular hangout of actors filming nearby.

Hotels in downtown are generally cheaper, and it's a great option if you'd rather settle down for the night away from the noise of the Strip.

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Top casinos in Las Vegas

Bellagio

The Bellagio is probably the most famous casino in Las Vegas. It's here you'll find the famous fountain show, botanical gardens, the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, fine dining restaurants, high-end shops, 40 poker tables and hundreds of slot machines.

Caesars Palace

This iconic Roman-themed luxury hotel and casino has an opulent atmosphere thanks to its grand architecture and statues. Appearing in countless movies and shows like The Hangover and Friends, its Colosseum venue hosts world-renowned artists from Adele to Rod Stewart.

New York New York

New York New York is one of the most impressive casinos in Las Vegas as it boasts its very own New York skyline complete with a roller coaster that runs through it. Inside there are around 900 slot machines and 4,000 square feet of space with nearly 50 table games.

MGM Grand

With 6,852 rooms the MGM Grand is the largest single hotel in the United States and when it opened was the largest hotel complex in the world. There are 5 outdoors pools, rivers, waterfalls, a convention centre, the Grand Spa, many resturaunts and shops plus at 171,500 sq ft it's one of the biggest casinos in the city.

The Venetian and The Palazzo

The Venetian and The Palazzo together make up the largest hotel resort complex in the USA. Offering grandeur, luxury suites, impressive dining options and the world's largest spa, it's probably best known for the replica of Venice's Grand Canal and the gondolas that run through the hotel.

At the Venetian, and to be fair pretty much anywhere in Las Vegas, you'll be able to see the city's newest adition – the Sphere. It's the most expensive entertainment venue in Vegas history, the largest spherical structure in the world and is wrapped on the inside and out with high-resolution LED displays. Expect immersive performances from bands like U2 on the inside and mesmerising displays on the outside. We tried, but words can't really do the Sphere justice – you'll have to go see it for yourself.

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What to eat in Las Vegas

There are countless places to eat in Vegas, with something to suit every pallette. The city is famous for its lavish all-you-can-eat buffets put on by the resorts – the especially popular Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace serves everything from crab and chicken fried steak for brunch to roman-style pizzas and LA-inspired tacos for dinner.

Celebrity chefs love Las Vegas, so expect to see the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Joel Robuchon and Guy Savoy put their names to restaurants all over the city. World-class steakhouses like SW Steakhouse at Wynn and CUT by Wolfang Puck are worth seeking out, as are classic American diners like Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge for delicious super-sized portions.

If you've spent too much in the casinos, you're never far away from a fast-food burger or a taco. Vegas has a great range of Asian dining options too. The ramen is a must, which Shokku in Chinatown serves 24 hours a day, and Japanese favourites like sushi and sashimi go down very well at Nobu in Caesars Palace if you're happy to splash out.

Las Vegas for families

When planning a family holiday, Vegas might not be the first place that comes to mind. But while the vibrant nightlife and adult-orientated entertainment dominates the headlines, there's something to keep every traveller entertained – including kids.

Vegas is famous around the world for its larger-than-life shows that are sure to entertain the whole family. You could see a magician, Cirque du Soleil shows, residencies from famous musicians and comedians and everything in between. There's no shortage of pools and water parks around the resorts, plus theme parks like the Adventuredome at Circus Circus are always a winner.

Many of the city's top attractions are family friendly. The High Roller observation wheel promises unforgettable views over the city, and animal lovers will want to see the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. For a spot of culture, the DISCOVERY Children's Museum has lots of hands-on exhibits and interactive learning experiences for kids, plus the Mob Museum and the Neon Museum are fascinating options for older children and teenagers.

Or, why not explore the great outdoors. The beautiful Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is right on your doorstep, and a day trip to the Grand Canyon is a once in a lifetime experience.

It'll come as no surprise that it gets quite rowdy on the Strip at night, so if you're travelling with the kids it might be worth taking them round the top sights during the day.

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Accessibility in Las Vegas

Many of the top attractions and shows in Vegas have been designed or adapted with accessibility in mind, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding accessible things to do. If there's something specific you wanted to do while you're there, check with the venue before you travel. Check with the hotel and resort you plan on staying at too – with so many options to choose from, you should find lots of accessible options.

In terms of getting around, pavements (or sidewalks) are well-maintained and have curb cuts for wheelchair access, plus most resorts have ramps and elevators. It does get very busy on the Strip though, which can make it difficult for wheelchair users to get anywhere quickly.

Accessible taxis are usually available from taxi ranks and apps like Uber and Lyft, plus most bus routes including the Deuce are also accessible for wheelchair users.

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Las Vegas for LGBTQI+ travellers

The USA is a huge country home to people from a diverse range of backgrounds, and while attitudes towards the LGBTQI+ community can vary from state to state, Las Vegas is generally a very welcoming place.

There's no shortage of LGBTQI+ friendly venues and events. The Fruit Loop near the University District is home to some of the city's best LGBTQI+ friendly bars and clubs, and many of the shows and events along the Strip feature LGBTQI+ performers and themes.

The Pride Parade in downtown Vegas and the Pride Festival draws in large crowds and features live performances, street food and a lively party atmosphere celebrating the LGBTQI+ community. They both tend to happen around October.

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Sustainable tourism in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a city that generates a lot of waste, but there are plenty of ways you can reduce your impact while you're there. Avoid single-use plastic where you can by bringing your own reusable bags, containers and straws and seek out the recycling bins found at many of the hotels and resorts along the Strip.

One great way to have a more sustainable trip wherever you travel is to avoid cars and taxis where you can. Las Vegas has an extensive public transport network, with buses running regularly throughout the city and a free tram connecting many of the major hotels and casinos. Plus the Strip is best explored by walking anyway – while it can take a while to navigate through the busy centre, it's a great way to take in Vegas' famous sights.

When choosing where to stay, why not choose a hotel with a LEED certificate, awarded to hotels committed to sustainable practices. You'll have plenty of options, including Wynn, The Venetian and The Palazzo, Resorts World, Mandalay Bay and Aria to name a few.

And Las Vegas has to be careful with its water consumption given its desert location, so do try to use water responsibly while you're there.

Las Vegas FAQs

What are the best hotels in Las Vegas?

The best hotel in Vegas for you will depend on what you're looking for. Got some cash to splash? Bellagio is probably the best known hotel in Vegas – it has a perfect central location on the Strip and is home to the famous fountain display, beautiful botanical gardens, a fine art gallery and high-end shops and restaurants.

On a budget? The LINQ is a great option. It's right in the middle of the Strip, boasts modern rooms and offers affordable spa treatments. And it has its own zipline that'll fly you across The Linq Promenade.

What are the best ways to save money while visiting Las Vegas?

While Las Vegas is particularly popular with high rollers and big spenders, there are plenty of ways you can save money while you're there and still have the best time.

Heading there in off-peak times like weekdays or shoulder seasons is a good start, as flights and hotels tend to be cheaper. And Vegas isn't short of budget-friendly places to stay, some even on the Strip, but make sure to find out about any resort fees you'll have to pay before booking your accommodation to avoid any nasty surprises.

When you get there, there will be plenty of free attractions and shows for you to enjoy. The Fountains of Bellagio and the Fall of Atlantis show at Caesars Palace won't cost you a thing, and the Fremont Street Experience in downtown put on lots of daily free events worth checking out.

When wining and dining, look out for happy hour specials and consider using public transport rather than ordering a taxi. And if you fancy trying your luck at the casinos, set yourself a gambling budget and stick to it – money can dissapear very quickly in Vegas if you're not careful.

What are the top things to do in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has something to suit every traveller. One of the best things to do is explore the Las Vegas Strip, taking in the dazzling lights, extravagent resorts and vibrant atmosphere and stopping off at shops, restaurants, bars and casinos along the way.

Las Vegas is known around the world for its spectacular shows. Famous performers stop here all the time, some for months at a time taking up residencies at the resorts, so there's bound to be great music, comedy, magic shows and more taking place when you visit.

And Las Vegas is of course synonymous with gambling – there are plenty of casinos to keep you entertained if you fancy trying your luck at the slots, blackjack or poker.

Away from the Strip is the Fremont Street Experience, where you'll find light shows, live music, street performers and nostalgic casinos. And the Grand Canyon is just a day trip away, some even choosing to head there by helicopter and take in the stunning views of this natural wonder.

How long should I stay in Las Vegas for?

How long you should stay in Las Vegas depends on what you want to do while you're there. If you're stopping off here as part of a road trip, two to three days is ideal. That'll be enough time to see all the main sights along the Strip, catch a show and try your luck in the casinos. Two to three days is a good length of time to be there if you plan on gambling and partying too, as it means you'll be less likely to burn out and won't spend quite as much as if you had stayed longer.

If you're flying straight in and out of Las Vegas and want to see more while you're there, five to seven days is a good length of time. This will allow you to explore Freemont Street and the Arts District in downtown and take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam or both.

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