When you're deciding when to go to Las Vegas, you may be wondering: When's the best time to go? Or how to get around in Vegas? Whatever your reason, this Las Vegas Travel Guide can help you navigate the city. The city is chock-full of things to do and see, from the glitz and glamour of The Strip to the art and culture of the arts district.
About Las Vegas
In a 1972 book, Venturi, Brown, and Izenour wrote that Las Vegas represented a new, transformed interest: the "New All-American City." The city was a way for Americans to let off steam and see some of the most unorthodox aspects of American culture. In 1994, Time Magazine called Las Vegas a "New All-American City." Baudrillard views Las Vegas as the prototype of a new type of urban life. As a result, the city is increasingly featured in movies, television shows, literature, and news stories.
In the 1970s, Las Vegas became an economic juggernaut, booming while the rest of the country suffered from stagflation. Even today, it is the fastest-growing urban area in the U.S. Unlike many other cities, Las Vegas' growth is not mainly driven by retirees, but by people moving to the city for jobs. It is estimated that each new hotel room in Las Vegas creates five to ten new jobs. But the quality of those jobs is questionable.
The name Las Vegas means "the meadows" in Spanish. The name is attributed to a Spanish expedition that stopped at the valley in the 1800s in search of water. They were drawn by the grassy meadows and springs that were present in the desert.
Best Time to Go
Most American vacation destinations are at their busiest during the summer months, and Las Vegas is no different. But there are some times of the year when traffic is not as bad and there is less crowding. If you're looking for a vacation in Las Vegas with fewer crowds, consider the spring and fall months. These months are usually relatively slow, but major holidays can cause a surge in traffic.
While you're at it, try to avoid the hot summer months between May and October. These months can be expensive, but you can find great deals on hotels and show tickets. Many hotels offer free parking, and you'll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Las Vegas without spending a fortune.
The best time to visit Las Vegas depends on your personal preferences and your budget. Fall is the best time to visit since temperatures are comfortable and the chance of rain is low. It's also the best time to go sightseeing and on day trips outside of the city. However, make sure to avoid the summer months, because they're very hot and can be dangerous.
How to Get Around
While you're in Las Vegas, it can be difficult to navigate the many streets and strip areas. Many visitors rush to cab stands upon landing and don't realize that the best way to get around is by foot. This leads to a lot of wasted time, and many tourists end up walking at least 3-4 miles more each day than they need to. However, there are many ways to get around Vegas without a car, including affordable buses and the handy monorail.
There are many ways to get around Las Vegas, but you have to balance speed and cost to choose the best one for you. Since most Las Vegas hotels are surrounded by free parking lots, walking is a good option for covering short distances. However, if you don't have a car, public transportation is the best option.
Besides taking a taxi, you can also rent a car for your trip. You'll be able to use it to navigate around the strip with ease. The Deuce bus is inexpensive and easy to use, runs every 15 minutes, and covers most of the Strip. It's also faster than the express bus and can be easily found at many casinos.
Best Hotels
1. Encore at Wynn Las Vegas
Address: 3131 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone: (702) 770-7000
This upscale hotel is adjacent to Wynn Las Vegas and boasts luxurious accommodations and an award-winning spa. It offers modern suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, a living room, and a work area with state-of-the-art office equipment. Some suites even have massage rooms and dining rooms.
2. Circa Resort & Casino - Adults Only
Address: 8 Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Phone: (702) 247-2258
Circa Resort & Casino - Adult's Only is located in Downtown Las Vegas, less than five minutes from the Fremont Street Experience and 11 minutes from the Las Vegas Convention Center. The property is also about 6.7 miles (12.5 km) from the High Roller and 8.6 miles (12.4 km) from T-Mobile Arena. The Circa features 777 rooms with cable TV and internet access. The hotel's two restaurants offer dinner and breakfast daily.
3. Wynn Las Vegas
Address: 3131 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone: (702) 770-7000
The Wynn Las Vegas hotel offers a swanky, classy option for those looking for the very best in luxury. Rooms here are air-conditioned and feature art deco-style interiors. The resort offers 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping. It also has designated smoking areas.
4. The Venetian Resort Las Vegas
Address: 3355 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone: (702) 414-1000
The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is a luxury resort in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. It features all-suite accommodations, world-class entertainment, and a wide selection of shopping and dining options. Each suite is over 650 square feet, more than double the size of a typical Las Vegas hotel room.
5. Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay
Address: 3940 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: (877) 632-5400
The Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay is a full-service hotel that's located near the Mandalay Bay resort. It offers a quieter atmosphere, without a casino, and has two full-service restaurants and a spa. It's a favorite of business travelers and is trying to attract a younger crowd.
6. Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
Address: 3960 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: (702) 632-5000
The Six-Star Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas is a luxury property on the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel is a short walk from several sights in Las Vegas, including the famous Mandalay Bay. It is also within 10 minutes of McCarran International Airport. In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the Four Seasons offers amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor pool. The hotel also features an iPod docking station and a minibar for convenience.
7. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Address: 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone: (702) 698-7000
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a luxury resort located in the heart of The Strip. It features a vertical multi-tower design, giving guests an unparalleled view of the city. Guests are also able to enjoy the many unique entertainment venues in this luxurious resort. Guests may enjoy the different nightlife and dining venues located in the resort.
8. ARIA Resort & Casino
Address: 3730 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89158
Phone: (866) 359-7757
The ARIA Resort & Casino is a five-star property located on the main Strip. It offers a full casino with high-stakes cards and traditional slots. It also has a spa and a nightclub. Its rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist decor. It is also within 10 minutes of McCarran International Airport.
9. Bellagio
Address: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Phone: (702) 693-7111
The Bellagio Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas. Its rooms feature sophisticated contemporary designs and marble bathrooms. You'll find everything you need to make yourself comfortable in your room, including a coffee maker, refrigerator, and television. The hotel also offers spas and nightclubs.
10. JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa
Address: 221 N Rampart Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89145
Phone: (702) 869-7777
Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa offers luxury accommodations, world-class spa treatments, a full-service salon, and a 50,000-square-foot casino. The hotel is also home to a 2-person spa bath, volleyball courts, and eight fine-dining and casual restaurants.
Best Restaurants
From Michelin-starred chefs to hole-in-the-walls, Las Vegas offers restaurants to suit any taste. From Thai to Italian, there are dozens of great choices. Here are a few local favorites. Let's start with Thai! Las Vegas' famous Thai restaurants are a popular choice for many people.
The most acclaimed Las Vegas restaurants feature unique cuisines from different countries. A good choice for those who want a unique dining experience is Bouchon. This award-winning restaurant is located outside the strip, but the ambiance and food are sure to impress. It also offers a great cocktail menu.
El Segundo Sol is another popular option for fine dining. This restaurant has an outdoor patio and a lively interior. It offers a six-course or 16-course meal, depending on your taste. The restaurant is located north of Las Vegas Blvd on Spring Mountain Rd. A full tequila bar is available at the restaurant.
Things to Do
While the Strip is a must-see, you can also find many unique experiences around the city. From world-class retail to breathtaking views, Vegas has it all. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip. Make sure to bring a lot of water, a map from the visitor center, and a hat to keep you cool.
Visit the Neon Museum. The museum is a showcase of vintage neon signs. It was originally a storage facility, but was converted to a museum in 1996. It is best to visit in the late evenings or early mornings to experience the neon sign display's best effects. Another option for a night out is brunch on the Strip.
If you like the outdoors, visit Valley of Fire State Park. This 180-acre cultural institution is on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is located near the original water source of the valley, and is popularly referred to as the "birthplace of Las Vegas." There are 75 permanent exhibits and a traveling exhibit space, so you'll have an opportunity to get a unique look at the history of the city.
Neighborhoods to Know
While Vegas is famed for its casinos, neon lights and gambling, it's also worth exploring its neighborhoods for a more diverse experience. For example, Downtown Arts District is one of the hottest neighborhoods in Vegas, with a distinctive artistic and cultural vibe. This area has a distinct feel, and you can expect to find many independent shops and restaurants that have been influenced by local artists.
Downtown Las Vegas is located just north of the Strip, and features a diverse collection of attractions and restaurants. The area includes the five-block pedestrian mall Fremont Street Experience. The neighborhood is home to several large hotels, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and other attractions. For the arts-loving traveler, the Downtown Arts District offers eclectic shops and a burgeoning dining scene.
Although Las Vegas is a relatively safe city for tourists, you'll still want to take precautions to protect yourself. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including Lake Mead and the Red Rock Canyon. There are more activities to enjoy in Las Vegas than you think, and cheap flights are a great way to explore them.
Weather
Weather in Las Vegas varies widely throughout the year. Winters are typically cold, but summers can be hot and dry. Days may be sunny, but the chances of rainy days are high in the desert. Winters are cool, with temperatures in the low 60s. The average temperature at night remains above 50 degrees. In the summer, however, it rarely drops below 70 degrees.
Winters in Las Vegas can be pleasant, but the coldest month is December. The average low in January is 34 degrees, and the high in February is 39 degrees. For those used to cold temperatures, Las Vegas is a pleasant change. March temperatures range from 44 degrees to 69 degrees. However, the hottest months are July and August, which can be extremely hot and dry.
The daytime weather forecast for Las Vegas provides information on temperatures, including low and high temperatures for today, tomorrow, and the next week. The forecast also provides details about cloudiness, precipitation, and wind. Moreover, it shows the sunrise and sunset times, as well as the wind speed and direction.
