Last Updated on August 26, 2023 by Jerardo Gomez
The Ultimate 33 Tips and Tricks to Know in Las Vegas in 2023
Are you traveling for the first time to Las Vegas? Or are you a returning tourist looking for tips and tricks to save you money and insider information on new things in Las Vegas?
Introduction
Las Vegas, also known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a city unlike any other. Known for its casinos, world-class restaurants, and luxurious hotels, Las Vegas is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, there are plenty of things to do and see in Las Vegas.
We’ve put together the ultimate list of 30 tips and tricks for making the most out of your trip saving you time and money. From saving money on hotels and flights to insider information on new attractions, this guide has everything you need to know about visiting Las Vegas. So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning tourist, get ready to explore all that Sin City has to offer with our comprehensive list of must-know tips and tricks for traveling to Las Vegas!
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
33 Essential Tips for Las Vegas
These are the essential Vegas tips for first-timers.
Research, research, research
If you are reading this then you are already starting out right as researching before starting a trip to Las Vegas is the most important tip any travel expert will give you!
Researching can help travelers save money by finding the best deals on accommodations, dining, and entertainment. In addition, it gives you an expectation of what’s to come and gives you information on things you want to do in Las Vegas.
Knowing the lay of the land ahead of time can also help visitors prioritize attractions they are most interested in seeing, as well as plan out a route to make sure they devote enough time to each one. Additionally, researching the city’s cultural activities and events that may be occurring during their stay allows adventurers to plan accordingly for an unforgettable experience.
Research what will be convenient for you and what’s more important to you.
Here is a list of things to consider when traveling to Las Vegas:
- Weather
- Accommodation
- Cost
- Dining options
- Itinerary
- Scams
Where to stay
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Las Vegas, there is an abundance of choices. Depending on your budget and preferences, travelers can choose between staying on The Strip or off The Strip to best suit their needs.
Staying on The Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is ideal for travelers who are eager to be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Vegas’ vibrant attractions. Offering convenience, accessibility, and excitement, vacationers can find themselves within walking distance of the strip’s world-famous casinos and resorts. Moreover, visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants, shopping areas, nightlife venues, and entertainment options that cater to all types of individuals. Furthermore, the plethora of public transportation available makes it easy for guests to get around without having to rent a car.
The Strip is home to some of the most iconic hotels and casinos in the world, such as the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the MGM Grand. Staying on the Strip means you’ll be close to all the major attractions, such as the Bellagio Fountains, the High Roller Observation Wheel, and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas.
Pros and Cons:
- close to attractions
- Very Convenient
- Expensive
FYI Most hotels on the Las Vegas Strip now include a resort fee which is just an extra charge that is not avoidable without special status
Off the Strip
On the other hand, staying off The Strip might be more suitable for those looking for fewer crowds and more quietude while still being able to enjoy all that Las Vegas has to offer. Although this option provides savings in terms of accommodation costs, visitors should be aware that they will have to travel a bit further from their hotel to explore the city’s popular attractions. However, with ample public transportation options such as buses, monorails, and shuttles connecting all parts of Vegas, accessing these hotspots is still relatively easy. Additionally, some spots off The Strip also offer free parking—making it easier for road-trippers who prefer driving over public transit options.
Pros and Cons:
- Avoid resort fees
- Cheaper Hotel Prices
- Ride Share is a must
At the end of the day, when choosing where to stay in Las Vegas look no further than what suits your needs best: whether it’s convenient to access or cost savings—Las Vegas has plenty of options available that will make sure your trip is one you won’t forget!
Pro Tip
For visiting Vegas for the first time, I do recommend staying on the Las Vegas strip if your budget allows for it as it is a must thing to do and its a good way to Explore Las Vegas.
Staying on the Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is a world-famous stretch of road that’s lined with some of the most luxurious resorts and casinos in the world. From the iconic Bellagio to the dazzling Venetian, there’s no shortage of high-end accommodations on the Strip. However, staying on the Strip can also be expensive. Luckily, there are ways to save money without sacrificing the experience.
One way to save money on the Strip is to book your trip during the off-season. While Las Vegas is a popular destination year-round, certain times of the year are more expensive than others. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider visiting Las Vegas during the winter months or in the middle of the week, when hotels and flights are often less expensive.
Book Las Vegas offseason
Book Hotel Rooms mid-week
Here are some options to consider in the Las Vegas Strip:
- Bellagio Hotel
- Venetian Hotel
- Caesars Palace
- Cosmopolitan Hotel
- Mirage Hotel
- MGM Grand
- Mandalay Bay
- The Strat
- New York New York (lower end)
- Luxor Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (low-end)
- Harrah’s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (mid-tier)
- Excalibur Hotel and Casino (low-end)
- Paris Hotel Las Vegas Resort & Casino (Mid-Tier)
- Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino (Mid-Tier)
Avoid Weekends, Holidays, and Event dates
In addition to financial savings, avoiding these busy times can also provide more peace and relaxation during your stay in Las Vegas. Hotels on the Strip are especially crowded during weekends and holidays as people flock to the city for shows, casino gambling or special events like New Year’s Eve or the infamous Las Vegas Marathon. This can make it difficult to find a spot by the pool or get a table at a restaurant while avoiding large crowds of people.
What days to pick on a Vegas Vacation?
By opting for mid-week dates instead of weekends or holidays, you can get more value out of your trip in terms of price and experience. You may also find that attractions such as casinos, restaurants, and shows offer discounted rates on certain days which could help lower your overall cost even further. Plus, if you plan ahead you may even be able to book rooms at some of the most luxurious hotels on The Strip for much less than usual!
In addition, free upgrades are more common as there are more rooms available!
Plan ahead and take advantage of mid-week deals in order to maximize your experience while avoiding the hustle and bustle associated with peak travel times.
Resort Fees on the Vegas Strip
Las Vegas is notorious for its high resort fees, which can be a major drag on your vacation budget. Resort fee fees are charged per room per night, and they cover amenities like Wi-Fi, gym access, and newspaper delivery. Unfortunately, these fees are unavoidable when staying in Vegas—unless you have status with certain hotel programs.
With the right loyalty program status, you may be eligible for waived resort fees when you stay in Las Vegas. For example, MGM Resorts Mlife Rewards Elite members automatically receive discounted or waived resort fees at any MGM property on the Strip. Similarly, Caesars Rewards Diamond and Seven Star members receive complimentary daily resort fees at Caesars properties such as The Cromwell and The Linq Hotel & Casino.
If you don’t have status with any of these programs yet, there are still ways to save money on resort fees. Booking a package deal that includes accommodations and flights can often be cheaper than booking separately—and sometimes it will include waived resort fees as an added bonus.
Additionally, many hotels participate in special offers where you can pay lower rates if you book a certain number of nights or join their loyalty program ahead of time.
Finally, traveling during off-peak times such as midweek or the winter months may also help lower your overall cost since hotel rates tend to drop at this time.
If you want to save a few dollars then head for the hotels off the strip.
Use MyVegas App!
The Ultimate way to save money in Las Vegas is to download the MyVegas app weeks before booking, hear me out!
I have already written a complete article about the MyVegas app and how it can save you money!
With just a few minutes of playing you are able to get enough points to get discounts, coupons, free gameplay, and even free rooms!
How to get free rooms in Las Vegas using the MyVegas App?
You can get free rooms in Vegas at the best hotels just by using MyVegas App for free! With a few days of play, you can get a free room comped at the Bellagio or even Cosmopolitan!
It is totally legit and it’s a way to incentives tourists to come. In my experience, it’s super easy and fasts to get rewards such as discounted buffets, rooms, and attraction tickets.
Avoid renting a Car
When to rent a car in Vegas?
You want to travel yourself to other parts of Vegas, towns, camping, hiking, visiting the Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, or Red Rock Canyon. If you want to do tourist attractions and save money then I suggest a tour.
If it’s your first Vegas trip then I recommend sticking to rideshares.
Renting a car in Las Vegas if you are solely in the city is unnecessary!
First and foremost, Vegas traffic can be a nightmare, especially during peak times such as weekends and holidays. The Strip is notorious for its bumper-to-bumper traffic, which can make it difficult and time-consuming to get around. Additionally, parking on the Strip can be expensive and hard to find, especially at popular attractions and casinos.
Casinos and hotels on the Strip sometimes charge you to have your vehicle parked!
Another reason to avoid renting a car in Vegas is the high cost of rental cars themselves. During peak times, rental car prices can skyrocket, making it an expensive option for many travelers. Additionally, many rental car companies charge extra fees for insurance, gas, and other expenses, which can quickly add up.
Lastly, Vegas offers plenty of alternative transportation options that are often more convenient and cost-effective than renting a car. For example, the Las Vegas Monorail runs along the Strip, providing easy access to many of the city’s top attractions and casinos. Additionally, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Las Vegas, providing a hassle-free option for getting around.
Free Las Vegas Attractions
Las Vegas, known for its vibrant nightlife and dazzling entertainment, can be an expensive city to visit. However, there are also plenty of free attractions and things to do that can help you stretch your budget while still having an amazing time. Here are some of the best free things to do in Las Vegas:
The Fountains of Bellagio: This iconic attraction is a must-see when in Vegas. The fountains are located in front of the Bellagio hotel and casino and feature a choreographed water show set to music and lights. The shows take place every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes in the evening.
The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo: Located in the Flamingo hotel and casino, this attraction is a hidden gem in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The habitat features exotic birds, fish, and turtles in a lush tropical setting, and it’s completely free to visit.
The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign: This iconic sign is a great spot for taking photos and is located just south of the Mandalay Bay hotel and casino. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared to wait in line to take your photo.
The Arts District: This neighborhood is located just a few blocks east of the Fremont Street Experience and is home to dozens of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The monthly First Friday art walk is a popular event that showcases local artists and musicians.
The Container Park: This unique outdoor shopping center is made entirely of recycled shipping containers and features a playground, live music, and a giant praying mantis sculpture that shoots flames. It’s a great spot to relax and grab a bite to eat.
The Mirage Volcano: Located in front of the Mirage hotel and casino, this free attraction features a spectacular eruption of fire and water set to music. The shows take place every hour starting at 6 pm.
The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio: This indoor garden features a rotating display of stunning floral arrangements and seasonal displays. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip for a few moments of peace and tranquility.
The Neon Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Las Vegas’ iconic neon signs. While admission to the museum isn’t free, you can visit the Neon Boneyard Park for free and see dozens of vintage signs up close.
The Mob Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of organized crime in America, with a focus on Las Vegas. While admission isn’t free, you can visit the museum’s front entrance and see a portion of the historic courthouse building for free.
The Hoover Dam: While not technically in Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is just a short drive away and is a popular day trip destination. The dam offers free parking and access to the observation deck, where you can take in stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding desert landscape.
Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions. There are plenty of free things to do here, as well as numerous bars and restaurants. One top attraction is the Fremont Street Experience, a stunning five-block pedestrian mall lined with neon lights and live entertainment. Here you can find street performers, musicians, and even acrobats performing for crowds.
If live music is what you’re after, then check out Fremont Street Live! This free outdoor concert series features local and international acts playing everything from classic rock to hip-hop. The stage is located at 3rd Street Stage, just steps away from several casinos.
For those looking for more adventurous activities in Downtown Las Vegas, there are zip lines that run over Fremont Street as well as rappelling tours that take visitors on an urban descent through historic buildings in the area. Finally, don’t miss out on exploring nearby Ogden Avenue – it’s home to many galleries featuring local artists’ works and several trendy restaurants offering delicious food.
Be wary of Public Wifi
Public wifi networks can often be vulnerable to cyber threats and other malicious activities, as they are often unsecured and widely accessible to anyone. Without the proper encryption or security measures in place, hackers can easily intercept and access personal data sent over public wifi networks. This includes credit card information, passwords, emails, and browsing history.
One of the best ways to protect yourself while using public wifi is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs encrypt your connection to the internet and make it much harder for hackers to access your data. They also provide anonymity by masking your IP address and preventing tracking systems from seeing what sites you visit. Additionally, many VPNs offer additional features such as malware protection, ad blocking, and DNS leak protection. All of this makes it much safer for users to connect to public wifi networks with peace of mind that their data is secure.
Dont Become Overly Intoxicated
Las Vegas is a vibrant, exciting city full of enticing entertainment. However, it’s important to remember that the city also has many temptations and dangers. With alcohol being so readily available, it is easy to become overly intoxicated in Las Vegas. It can be easy to forget that you still have to abide by the laws of the land and excessive intoxication can lead to serious consequences.
Common consequences of getting drunk in Vegas:
Arrest
The altered judgment makes for poor decision making
Casinos give free drinks to keep you there
Risky Behavior
Target for theft
Some women (escorts) in the casino target intoxicated men
Bad gambling decisions
One major consequence of getting overly intoxicated in Las Vegas is the risk of arrest for public intoxication or drunk in public charges. Public intoxication laws vary from state to state but many states view this as a misdemeanor offense punishable by fines and possible jail time.
Additionally, getting overly intoxicated can cause you to lose control over your actions and judgment, making you an easier target for criminals or putting yourself in other dangerous situations such as walking through dark alleys late at night or engaging in reckless behavior such as driving while under the influence.
Another potential consequence of becoming overly intoxicated is physical harm due to excessive alcohol consumption. Drinking too much alcohol significantly impairs coordination and reaction time, leading to an increased risk of falling or injuring yourself unintentionally. Alcohol poisoning can also occur if one drinks too much in a short period of time, resulting in serious medical emergencies where hospitalization may be required.
Finally, becoming overly intoxicated in Las Vegas could also lead to financial problems due to unexpected costs associated with activities done while under the influence such as ordering more food or drinks than intended or gambling more money than planned on casino games. This type of reckless spending often leads to regretful financial decisions which can be difficult (or impossible) to undo later on.
Tip at Restaurants and Transport Services
Tipping in Las Vegas is unlike any other city because EVERYONE expects a tip!
It’s customary to tip bartenders, waitstaff, and other service industry professionals for their services. The amount you should tip depends on the type of service you received and how satisfied you are with it. Generally speaking, tips of 15%-20% are considered standard for excellent service in the United States.
In addition to tipping restaurant staff, it is also customary to tip cab drivers, limousine drivers, and valets who provide transportation services. Tips should typically range from $2-$5 for a short trip or 10-15% of the fare for longer trips. If you used a ride-share service such as Uber or Lyft, most people leave about 20% as a gratuity.
Tipping hotel staff such as housekeepers and bellhops is also expected in Las Vegas. For housekeepers, it’s customary to leave $3-5 per night while checking out; while bellhops should receive at least $1-2 per bag they help transport up to your room.
When enjoying live entertainment such as shows or concerts in Las Vegas, it’s important to remember that the performers rely largely on tips from audience members for their income. It’s usually recommended to tip $5-10 depending on how much you enjoyed the show and what kind of act was performing (i.e., a singer versus a dancer).
Additionally, if someone provides special assistance during your time at a show such as helping you find your seat or taking care of any special requests, then it’s appropriate to tip them accordingly.
What I tip
I only tip at restaurants and transportation services personally. Although everyone expects a tip in Vegas, I do not want to support or encourage that culture.
Dont break Casino Rules
- Don’t count cards
- Avoid cheating at any cost
- Refrain from using devices to win or manipulate the outcomes of games
- Do not lend money or gamble with borrowed funds
- Cash out when you’re satisfied with your winnings
Breaking casino rules can have serious consequences that could result in being banned from the establishment, being fined, and even facing criminal charges. Counting cards is illegal because it involves gaining an unfair advantage over other players, as well as breaking the house’s rules on playing. Cheating also falls into this category as it includes any means of manipulating outcomes or using devices to gain an edge.
Furthermore, failure to follow established table limits or drinking too much alcohol while playing can be detrimental not only to yourself but also others around you due to impaired judgment and decision-making abilities. For example, drunk gambling can lead to excessive losses or losses made without proper consideration of the odds or stakes involved.
In extreme cases, it can lead to irresponsible behavior such as verbally or physically lashing out at staff members or other players which is never acceptable no matter what the circumstances may be.
Walk the Strip
Walking the Las Vegas Strip is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. It’s the best way to truly experience the sights, sounds, and energy of Las Vegas.
Here are some reasons why walking the Strip is the best way to enjoy Las Vegas:
You’ll experience the famous Las Vegas neon lights up close: The Strip is known for its iconic neon lights, and walking along the street is the best way to see them up close and in all their glory.
You can explore at your own pace: When walking the Strip, you can take your time and explore the various attractions and landmarks at your own pace, without feeling rushed or constrained by a schedule.
It’s a great way to people-watch: Las Vegas is a city unlike any other, and walking the Strip is the perfect way to observe the diverse mix of people who come from all over the world to experience the city.
You can find free entertainment and attractions: The Strip is home to a variety of free attractions and entertainment options that are accessible to anyone, regardless of their budget.
Here are some free things to see and do on the Strip:
The Bellagio Fountains: The Bellagio Fountains are a must-see attraction on the Strip, featuring a stunning water and light show set to music.
The Mirage Volcano: The Mirage Volcano is another free attraction that offers a fiery spectacle set to music and special effects.
The LINQ Promenade: The LINQ Promenade is a lively outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that offers free live music, street performers, and other attractions.
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign: The iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is a popular photo spot for tourists, and it’s free to visit and take pictures.
The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo: The Flamingo Hotel is home to a free Wildlife Habitat, where visitors can see flamingos, swans, and other exotic birds.
The Coca-Cola Store: The Coca-Cola Store is a fun and free attraction on the Strip, featuring a variety of Coca-Cola memorabilia and a tasting room where visitors can sample different Coke products from around the world.
The Streetmosphere at the Grand Canal Shoppes: The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian offer free entertainment in the form of the Streetmosphere, featuring costumed actors and performers who bring the streets of Venice to life.
Snap a picture at the Famous Las Vegas sign
Know the Strip is Long
The Las Vegas Strip is approximately 4.2 miles long and typically takes about an hour to walk from one end to the other. However, this time can vary depending on the number of stops along the way for sightseeing and attractions. For those looking for a faster way to traverse the Strip, there are several options available.
For starters, there is the Las Vegas Monorail (free) which travels along the east side of the Strip with stops at seven major resorts including MGM Grand, Bally’s/Paris Las Vegas, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, Harrah’s/The LINQ Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Convention Center and Westgate Station. In addition to being a great way to get around quickly, it also offers spectacular views of some of Sin City’s most famous sights such as The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas and the iconic “Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.
There are also trams that run between Mandalay Bay and Excalibur as well as between Bellagio and CityCenter.
Finally, there are also taxi cabs that can be found all over Las Vegas – both on and off The Strip – which allow passengers to get from point A to point B without having to worry about finding parking or making multiple transfers along their journey.
Use Designated Walking Spaces
Jaywalking in Las Vegas can be dangerous and should be avoided. Las Vegas is a bustling city with high traffic volumes, and pedestrians need to exercise caution when crossing the street.
Moreover, jaywalking in Las Vegas carries a risk of criminal prosecution. According to Nevada law, pedestrians must use crosswalks or intersections whenever possible when crossing roads; if they fail to do so they may face citations or fines.
Many tourists who have jaywalked have unfortunately been in an accident.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
When visiting Las Vegas, it is important to wear comfortable shoes in order to maximize your time and enjoyment. Las Vegas is a very walkable city, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located along the famous Strip or nearby downtown area. Walking can add up quickly, especially if you are looking to explore everything that the city has to offer
Use Sun Protection
A great tip in Las Vegas for first-time visitors is to use sun protection.
Las Vegas is well known for its dry desert climate, which can lead to sunburns and skin damage if appropriate precautions aren’t taken. With its scorching temperatures in summertime, it is important to protect yourself from the sun when visiting Las Vegas. UV radiation can increase risk of skin cancer and other long-term health problems, so applying a good sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going out into the sun is essential.
What I recommend:
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hat
Dont Walk Alone
Las Vegas is well known for its vibrant nightlife, but it’s important to remember that the city can be quite dangerous after dark. Walking alone at night in Las Vegas can put you in harm’s way, as there is an increased risk of theft, assault, and other criminal activities. The city has a high rate of violence and crime even with police everywhere.
Some Las Vegas tips for you include: don’t walk at night alone, especially female solo travelers, and avoid homeless people.
Book in Advance
If you want to visit Las Vegas Restaurants and get the best hotel room price when booking then book in advance!
Many fine-dining restaurants, buffets, hotels, and shows get booked fast so it’s important to buy tickets soon.
By making your bookings you are able to secure the things you want to do without the fear of missing out. These money-saving tips come in handy when saving a spot in the most famous casinos by getting in at cheaper prices.
If you have to go to the discount ticket booths on your trip to Vegas then there is a risk of missing out on shows and additional discounts from booking early.
Make Dinner Reservations
Making dinner reservations in Las Vegas is a great way to ensure that you have the best possible experience while visiting Sin City. Not only do reservations allow you to secure your spot at some of the city’s most popular restaurants and eateries, but they can also save you time and money.
Reservations also help guarantee that the restaurant will have enough space for your party, so you won’t be stuck waiting in line or unable to get a table.
Places to get diner reservations:
Recommended Buffets:
Bacchanal Buffet – Cesars Palace
Wicked Spoon – Cosmopolitan
The Buffet – Wynn
Celebrity Chef Restaurants:
Hells Kitchen by Gordon Ramsey – Caesars Palace
Guy Savoy fine dining – Caesars Palace
Giada – The Cromwell
Vanderpump Cocktail Garden- Cesars (my pick)
How to make dinner reservations in Las Vegas?
To make dinner reservations in Las Vegas, there are several options available depending on where and when you plan to eat. You can call the restaurant directly and speak to someone from the staff to make your reservation over the phone.
Alternatively, many restaurants now offer online booking—simply search for the website of your chosen establishment and look for an option to book online.
There are even websites dedicated to helping visitors find discounts on dining out in Las Vegas.
Use Convenience Stores and Pharmacies
Use convenience stores and pharmacies to get your essentials and save money. Things you can get here for cheaper is money from ATMs, water bottle or jugs, alcohol, coffee, souvenirs, and amenities.
Don’t go into the Bellagio Fountains
Just don’t do it. Many intoxicated people go in and end up getting escorted out and could get you banned from the Casino.
Airport Transfers
Free airport transfers from the Airport to the casino are available through shuttles. Make sure to book in advance.
The next option is Uber/Lyft. This is more private, convenient and cheaper than a taxi.
Taxis have a standard rate of 23$. Always confirm the price and make sure that they don’t charge you more than the flat rate that they are required to have.
Avoid Casino ATMs
ATMs in the casinos have high fees. I found this out when I was on my Vegas trip for the first time. To enjoy your Vegas Vacation, keep cash in handy and take it out from your ATM before gambling.
Avoid Scams
Las Vegas, being a popular tourist destination, unfortunately, attracts some scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors. Here are some common scams to be aware of:
Street performers asking for money: While many of the street performers in Las Vegas are legitimate and provide entertainment, some may ask for money after posing for a photo with you. Be cautious of anyone who seems overly aggressive or demanding.
Fake tickets: Scammers may try to sell fake tickets to popular shows or events, often at a discounted price. Always purchase tickets from authorized sellers.
Timeshare scams: Be wary of anyone offering you a free show or meal in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. These presentations can be high-pressure sales pitches, and some visitors have reported feeling scammed after being promised things that were not delivered.
Fake casino chips: Some scammers may try to pass off fake casino chips as real ones. Always double-check your chips before cashing them in.
Taxi scams: Some taxi drivers may take longer routes to increase the fare or insist on a flat fee rather than using the meter. Make sure to confirm the price before getting in the taxi.
Pickpocketing: As in any crowded tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Street Performers – They will insist on tips and if you take a picture they will aggressively ask for money. If this happens say you are going to the police. What they are doing is illegal and will back off.
Las Vegas Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is a great way to conveniently and quickly travel around the city. Spanning four miles between Sahara Avenue and MGM Grand Station, the Monorail connects some of the most popular and iconic attractions in Las Vegas. Its a convenient way to get around long distances fast.
Budget spending limits
Las Vegas is a city known for its luxury and extravagance, but it can also be an expensive destination. To ensure that you have a great time without breaking the bank, it is important to set a budget and stick to it. Budgeting will help you control how much you spend on gambling, entertainment, food, and other activities.
When budgeting for your Las Vegas trip, make sure to factor in all costs associated with travel (including airfare and lodging), entertainment, dining out, and shopping. You should also set aside some extra money for unexpected expenses or emergency situations. When choosing hotels and restaurants, consider their location as well as the cost to ensure that your stay is within budget.
Having a spending limit per day helps to prevent losing too much on slot machines. Many in Vegas play at a slot machine for hours not realizing how much money they have spent in one day. First Timers should especially be cautious with spending.
Get Casino Players Card to Earn Comps
People should get casino player cards to take advantage of the various perks and rewards that most casinos offer.
With a players card, customers can earn comps, or complimentary services such as free food and drinks, hotel stays, show tickets, and more. The points accumulated on their player’s card can also be used to benefit their gaming experience with discounts on gaming lessons or even cashback on losses. Additionally, many casinos now offer members-only bonuses such as special offers and promotions that are exclusive to player card holders.
Rule number 1 with players card for first-timers: Always use your player’s card to scan when playing slot machines, dining, at the bar, and anywhere you can use it in the Casino. The casino will take this into account when giving you promotions, discounts, and free rooms.
Go Off the Strip to Explore and Eat
If you’re looking for some great places to eat in Las Vegas off the Strip, here are some hidden gems worth checking out:
Lotus of Siam: This Thai restaurant is located on Sahara Avenue, just a few blocks from the Strip. It’s been consistently ranked as one of the best Thai restaurants in the country, and the extensive menu includes plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Capo’s Italian Cuisine: Located on West Sahara Avenue, Capo’s is a speakeasy-style Italian restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The menu includes classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, along with some more unusual options like octopus carpaccio.
Tacos El Gordo: This authentic Mexican restaurant is located on East Charleston Boulevard, about a 10-minute drive from the Strip. The tacos are the standout dish here, and the lines can get long during peak hours, but it’s definitely worth the wait.
The Peppermill: This classic Vegas restaurant has been serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1972. It’s located on Las Vegas Boulevard, but it’s definitely a hidden gem, with a cozy, retro vibe that feels like stepping back in time.
Some tips for first-time visitors to Las Vegas looking for great off-Strip dining options:
Don’t be afraid to venture away from the Strip. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars all over town.
Ask locals for recommendations. Las Vegas has a thriving food scene, and many residents are passionate about their favorite spots.
Look for Happy Hours
Happy Hours can be found throughout the city, in casinos, restaurants, bars, and more. On your next Las Vegas Vacation, try hitting these spots here.
Visit downtown Vegas
Head out of Las Vegas Boulevard and visit Freemont Street. There is plenty to see and do which was an exciting part of my first trip to vegas.
You can enjoy free concerts, get happy hour deals on Saturday nights, and see how the old Las Vegas once was. Before the major Casino mergers, old Vegas was thrilling… not to mention not having resort fees.
Staying downtown is another option to save money.
Get Discounts
You can find discounted tickets for just about anything in Vegas such as Cirque du Soleil shows, most hotels, Grand Canyon tours, free drinks, a huge observation wheel located near Harrah’s, and more.
Get free discounts in Vegas from these sites:
Free Room Upgrades
A method of getting free room upgrades in Las Vegas is by taking advantage of the city’s “20$ Trick.” I Learned this after a few trips from Las Vegas.
This involves simply asking the front desk attendant if they can provide you with an upgrade when checking in. Some hotels might be willing to grant this request if you slip them a twenty-dollar bill while making your request. While this isn’t guaranteed, it may be worth a shot if you’re looking for an upgraded room without having to pay additional fees or resort costs.
Stay Up to Date with Las Vegas News
Staying up to date about Las Vegas news is essential for travelers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. There are several reasons why staying informed is important:
- Weather: Las Vegas experiences extreme weather conditions, including scorching heat during summers and occasional flash floods. By staying informed about weather forecasts, travelers can pack appropriate clothing and plan their activities accordingly.
- Construction: Las Vegas is known for its extensive construction projects, including roadworks and hotel renovations. By staying updated on construction news, travelers can avoid unexpected detours or delays in their travel plans, saving both time and frustration.
- Major Events: Las Vegas is a hub for major events, such as concerts, conventions, and sporting events. These events can significantly impact the availability and pricing of accommodations, transportation options, and even the overall atmosphere of the city. By keeping track of event schedules, travelers can plan their trips accordingly, ensuring they don’t miss out on anything or get caught in overcrowded areas.
To stay up to date with Las Vegas news, here are some resources you can rely on:
- Local News Websites: Websites like the Las Vegas Review-Journal (www.reviewjournal.com) and KTNV (www.ktnv.com) provide comprehensive news coverage on various topics, including weather, construction updates, and major events happening in the city.
- Social Media: Following official accounts of Las Vegas news outlets, travel websites, and relevant city departments on platforms like Twitter and Facebook can keep you informed in real-time. Examples include @LVCVA (Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority) and @ClarkCountyNV (Clark County Government).
- Travel Apps: Utilize travel apps such as TripAdvisor, Expedia, or Kayak that offer up-to-date information on flights, hotels, and local events happening in Las Vegas.
Remember, staying informed about Las Vegas news not only enhances your travel experience but also helps you make well-informed decisions. So, stay connected, stay updated, and make the most out of your visit to Las Vegas.
