Las Vegas travel guide

By far the most compelling reason to visit Nevada is to see the surreal oasis of Las Vegas. While its eye-popping architecture, lavish restaurants, decadent nightclubs and amazing shows offer an unforgettable sensory overload, the experience remains rooted in gambling.

Casinos

In Las Vegas, the word "casino" is practically synonymous with the city itself.  The city's skyline is punctuated by iconic landmarks like the Bellagio, where the dancing fountains mesmerise onlookers, and the Venetian, with its faithful recreation of Venice's canals and architecture. 

Inside these lavish establishments, you’ll find a world of high-stakes excitement. Try your luck at blackjack tables in the MGM Grand or testing their poker face at the famous World Series of Poker tournaments held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. 

Whether you're drawn to the dazzling lights of the Strip or the vintage charm of downtown's Fremont Street, Las Vegas offers a casino experience that's second to none

Eating in Las Vegas

Las Vegas used to be a byword for bad food, with just the occasional mobster-dominated steakhouse to relieve the monotony of pile’em-high buffets. Those days have gone. Every major Strip casino now holds half a dozen or more high-quality restaurants, run by top chefs from all over the world. 

Prices have soared, to a typical minimum spend of $50 per head at big-name places, but so too have standards, and you could eat a great meal in a different restaurant every night in casinos such as Aria, Bellagio, the Cosmopolitan and the Venetian.

The Strip

No visit to Las Vegas would be complete without a stroll down the iconic Las Vegas Strip. Stretching for approximately 4.2 miles along Las Vegas Boulevard, the Strip is the heart of the city's entertainment district.

Its most iconic feature is its stunning architecture and design. From the elegant Venetian canals to the towering pyramid of the Luxor Hotel, each building along the Strip is a testament to the city's boundless creativity and extravagance. Lined with towering hotels, dazzling casinos, and world-class entertainment venues, the Strip is a spectacle like no other. 

Entertainment in Las Vegas

Beyond its casinos, Las Vegas is renowned for its top-notch entertainment offerings. Whether you're in the mood for a Broadway-style production or a mind-bending magic show, the city has something to captivate every audience. 

Catch a concert by a chart-topping artist or be awed by the acrobatics of a Cirque du Soleil performance—Las Vegas promises entertainment experiences that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.

A new generation of visitors is responsible for the spectacular growth in the city’s clubbing scene. casinos like the Cosmopolitan and Wynn Las Vegas now boast some of the world’s most spectacular – and expensive – clubs and ultra-lounges.

Red Rock Canyon

Just a short drive from the Strip lies Red Rock Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonderland that resembles something straight out of a sci-fi movie. With its towering red sandstone cliffs and otherworldly rock formations shaped by millennia of wind and water, Red Rock Canyon offers a striking contrast to the glitz and glamour of the Strip.

Explore the canyon's hiking trails, try your hand at rock climbing. The canyon is also known for its rich biodiversity, with a wide variety of plant and animal species calling the area home. 

Hoover Dam

Perched majestically on the mighty Colorado River, the Hoover Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. This iconic marvel of modern engineering, located just a short drive from Las Vegas, is a sight to behold, both for its sheer scale and its historical significance. 

Guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the dam, from its massive hydroelectric turbines to its intricate network of tunnels and chambers. Beyond its engineering marvels, the Hoover Dam also offers stunning panoramic views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, boating, and picnicking.

When to go to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, renowned for its scorching summers and mild winters, typically experiences a desert climate characterised by hot, arid days and cool evenings. In the summer months, temperatures often soar well above 100°F (37.8°C), with relentless sunshine dominating the landscape. 

However, despite the blistering heat, evenings offer some respite as temperatures dip to more comfortable levels. Winters are milder, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 50s to 60s°F (10-20°C), making it an appealing destination for those seeking refuge from colder climates.

This consistent climate makes Las Vegas an ideal year-round destination for tourists and residents alike, although you’ll find the autumn and spring to be the most mild and comfortable.

Las Vegas travel tips

To make the most of your trip to Sin City, consider these essential travel tips:

Take advantage of freebies

Many casinos and hotels in Las Vegas offer freebies and perks to attract guests. Keep an eye out for complimentary shows, attractions, and samples, and take advantage of them whenever possible. 

One of the most well-known perks is the offering of free drinks to gamblers. Whether you're sitting at a slot machine or gaming table, a cocktail waitress will find you and take your order. Be sure to tip generously for prompt service.

Be mindful of security

While Las Vegas is generally safe for tourists, it's always wise to be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings secure. 

Keep your valuables close and secure, especially in crowded areas like casinos and nightclubs. Avoid flashing large sums of cash and be cautious when using ATMs in public areas.

Explore beyond the Strip

While the Las Vegas Strip is the city's main attraction, don't overlook the many other attractions and neighborhoods worth exploring. Venture downtown to Fremont Street for a taste of old-school Vegas charm or take a day trip to nearby natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam.

Dress comfortably

Las Vegas experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year, so it's essential to dress appropriately for the weather. During the scorching summer months, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool in the desert heat. In the cooler winter months, layer up to stay warm, especially during chilly evenings.