5 Things That Totally Surprised Me About Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

This past weekend Audrey and I had the opportunity to explore Las Vegas. Personally, it was my first time to visit and I had serious reservations as to whether or not I would actually enjoy the experience. In many ways, I’ve always assumed Vegas was unabashedly cheesy and equally parts sleazy; essentially, nothing more than a Disneyland for adults.

5 Things That Totally Shocked Me About Las Vegas

What shocked me is that it didn’t take me long to change my mind about the place. Yes, it is a bit tacky and sleazy in some regards; however, it is an undeniably fun place to be. The energy and excitement swept me up and believe me when I say I don’t exactly need an excuse to get over-the-moon thrilled about temporarily escaping the shackles of teacher’s college.

I desperately needed a temporary escape from reality and Las Vegas provided that in spades. There are many aspects of Las Vegas that totally surprised me. Here are the top five:

1) Las Vegas is an Adventure playground for outdoor enthusiasts

I had absolutely no idea how many day trip opportunities exist for those seeking outdoor adventures. Red Rock Canyon, a national park that seems lifted straight from Northern Argentina, is within short driving distance. Lake Mead is only a few minutes’ drive from The Strip. If you’ve got a few more hours to spare, the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon are quite accessible. In theory, one could come to Las Vegas and engage in absolutely none of the nightlife, gambling, eating, shopping, and entertainment and still not even scratch the surface of rugged outdoors adventures over the course of a weekend (or even a full week in the city). When I return to Vegas in the future, I’m definitely hoping to stay longer and use the city as a launchpad for escaping it all.

Exploring Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon offers a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas. The conservation area features a 13-mile scenic drive, numerous hiking trails, rock climbing, horseback riding, and picnic areas. The sandstone peaks and walls, some reaching up to 3,000 feet, are a haven for climbers and hikers alike.

• Hiking Trails: Trails range from easy walks like the Moenkopi Loop to challenging hikes like the La Madre Springs.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for desert tortoises, wild burros, and bighorn sheep.
• Photography Opportunities: The vibrant red rocks provide a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Lake Mead and Water Activities

Just a short drive east of the city, Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers a plethora of water-based activities.

• Boating and Fishing: Rent a boat or join a fishing tour to catch striped bass and catfish.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the serene coves and take in the rugged desert scenery.
• Swimming and Sunbathing: Boulder Beach is a popular spot for relaxing by the water.

The Majestic Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel completed in 1935, is a must-visit.

• Guided Tours: Learn about the dam’s history and operation through guided tours that take you deep inside.
• Observation Decks: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River.
• Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge: Walk across the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for incredible photo opportunities.

Day Trips to the Grand Canyon

While the Grand Canyon is a bit farther away, it’s still feasible as a day trip.

• Helicopter Tours: For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a helicopter tour that departs from Las Vegas.
• Bus Tours: Budget-friendly options that include stops at the West Rim and Skywalk.
• Self-Drive: Rent a car and explore at your own pace, perhaps stopping at the historic town of Kingman along Route 66.

2) Las Vegas offers Value for all budgets

Las Vegas is a destination for people of all budgets. You can live it up like an A-lister by gormandizing at only the most posh restaurants, drinking at the most exclusive nightclubs, and sipping on nothing but the finest of drinks; however, if you’re not filthy rich and/or famous, it’s a place where value is everywhere. There are plenty of free shows and entertainment (the Bellagio water show being one of my favorites), and most hotels and casinos welcome you with open arms even if you’re merely people-watching. You can go for a $10 buffet or gobble down a burger with single-digit greenbacks. Personally, I had the opportunity to do both. I ate the $50 steak and watched the Cirque du Soleil performance, and I also indulged in many free attractions and wolfed down the otherworldly tasty Shake Shack burger.

Affordable Dining Options

Las Vegas is famous for its extravagant dining, but there are plenty of wallet-friendly options:

• Buffets: Places like Excalibur’s Buffet offer all-you-can-eat meals at reasonable prices.
• Food Courts: The Miracle Mile Shops have a variety of fast-food and casual dining spots.
• Happy Hours: Many restaurants and bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour.

Free Attractions and Entertainment

• Fremont Street Experience: A dazzling light show under a massive canopy, complete with live music and street performers.
• The Volcano at The Mirage: Witness erupting volcanoes with fireballs and waterfalls.
• Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo: A serene area featuring Chilean flamingos, turtles, and koi fish.

Budget-Friendly Shows

While some shows can be pricey, there are affordable options:

• Comedy Clubs: Laugh Factory and Comedy Cellar offer tickets at lower prices.
• Half-Price Ticket Booths: Tix4Tonight sells same-day show tickets at discounted rates.
• Street Performers: Enjoy magicians, musicians, and acrobats performing along The Strip.

Transportation Savings

• Monorail and Buses: The Las Vegas Monorail and Deuce bus offer economical ways to navigate The Strip.
• Walking: Despite the deceptive distances, walking is free and allows you to soak in the sights.
• Rideshares: Services like Uber and Lyft can be more affordable than taxis, especially during off-peak hours.

3) Distances are not what they seem in Las Vegas

“It’s only five minutes on foot,” I proclaimed to Audrey, gauging the distance of the hotel we wanted to visit. Five minutes later, it didn’t appear to be any closer. Ten minutes later, it still looked just about the same: “Okay, maybe it’ll take us over a half an hour.” This is a frequent conversation we had numerous times during our weekend in Vegas. The desert plays tricks on your eyes; nothing is what it seems. We learned, given the extreme time scarcity we had, that taking a cab wasn’t a bad idea when we wanted to jam activities into a few hours.

Understanding the Scale of The Strip

The Las Vegas Strip is approximately 4.2 miles long, stretching from the Mandalay Bay in the south to the Stratosphere in the north.

• Visual Illusions: The massive size of the hotels and the clear desert air can make distances appear shorter than they are.
• Connected Casinos: Many casinos are linked via indoor walkways or pedestrian bridges, which can help but also add to the walking distance.

Tips for Navigating Distances

• Plan Your Route: Use maps to understand actual distances and plan accordingly.
• Utilize Public Transport: The Deuce bus runs 24/7 along The Strip and downtown.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you choose to walk, comfortable footwear is a must.
• Time Management: Allocate more time than you think you need to get from one place to another.

Alternative Transportation Options

• Monorail: Stops at seven points along The Strip, from the MGM Grand to the SLS.
• Trams: Free trams connect certain hotels like the Mirage-Treasure Island and Mandalay Bay-Luxor-Excalibur.
• Bike Rentals: For a more active approach, consider renting a bike.

4) You can enjoy Las Vegas without Gambling

I remember reading recently that over 80% of people who visit Las Vegas gamble during their visit. This is obviously understandable. Vegas without gambling is like a tuna fish sandwich sans the tuna. For those averse to gambling—or simply disinterested—it is totally feasible to enjoy your experience in Sin City without rolling dice, pulling the lever on a slot machine, or placing a bet. There is simply so much one can do both on and off The Strip that gambling is entirely optional; however, you will notice people in hotels/casinos that are ONLY in Vegas to do just that. If you’re observant enough, you start to spot familiar faces in familiar places at all hours of the day.

World-Class Entertainment

• Shows and Concerts: From magic shows by Penn & Teller to concerts by top artists, the entertainment options are endless.
• Cirque du Soleil: Multiple shows like “O” at Bellagio and “KA” at MGM Grand offer breathtaking performances.
• Comedy Acts: Catch famous comedians like Jerry Seinfeld or emerging talents at local clubs.

Museums and Exhibits

• The Mob Museum: Dive into the history of organized crime and law enforcement in downtown Las Vegas.
• Neon Museum: Explore the iconic neon signs that once lit up the city.
• Bodies: The Exhibition: A fascinating look at human anatomy located at the Luxor.

Thrill Rides and Experiences

• High Roller Observation Wheel: Soar 550 feet above The Strip for panoramic views.
• Stratosphere Thrill Rides: Experience heart-pounding rides like SkyJump, Insanity, and Big Shot.
• Indoor Skydiving: Feel the rush of freefall without jumping from a plane.

Shopping and Dining

• Shopping Centers: Visit Fashion Show Mall, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, or Grand Canal Shoppes for retail therapy.
• Culinary Scene: Las Vegas is a foodie’s paradise with celebrity chef restaurants and diverse cuisine.

Relaxation and Wellness

• Spa Treatments: Indulge in luxury spas like Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars or The Spa at Encore.
• Pool Parties: Daytime pool clubs like Wet Republic and Encore Beach Club offer a vibrant atmosphere.

5) You can rock any style and get away with it Las Vegas

Are you up to date with the latest fashion from New York City? Total hipster? Cowboy? Retro? Redneck? Regular? Or anything in between? Whatever it is that you do (or don’t) sport, you’ll fit right in when you come to Vegas. I saw everything from staggering cowboys from Texas to pasty white sun deprived Canadians looking like they belonged here. It doesn’t matter if you’re dressed to the nines or looking like you just went on a hunting expedition. It’s all just fine and dandy over here.

The unofficial sixth surprise is that I’d be more than willing to come back. I had a grand old time in Vegas and I tried my best to sample as many different aspects of the city and the surrounding nearby areas as I possibly could. I left wishing I had a few more days to linger when I thought initially I’d be thrilled to eventually leave. Vegas, I’m hooked – the biggest surprise of all.

The Melting Pot of Styles

Las Vegas is a crossroads where people from all walks of life converge.

• Diverse Attire: From casual shorts and flip-flops to elegant evening gowns and tuxedos.
• Themed Outfits: Bachelor and bachelorette parties often dress in matching or themed attire.
• Cultural Attire: International visitors bring their own fashion flavors, adding to the eclectic mix.

Dress Codes in Venues

While The Strip is generally accepting of all styles, some venues have specific dress codes:

• Nightclubs and Upscale Restaurants: May require smart casual or formal attire. Men might need collared shirts and dress shoes.
• Casinos and Shows: Typically more relaxed, but it’s always good to check ahead.
• Pool Parties: Swimwear is acceptable, but some clubs have restrictions on certain types of attire.

Express Yourself

Las Vegas encourages individuality:

• Cosplay and Costumes: Events like Comic-Con and EDC see attendees in elaborate outfits.
• Personal Expression: Feel free to showcase tattoos, piercings, and unique hairstyles.
• Comfort is Key: With so much walking and activity, comfort often takes precedence.

Fashion Shopping

If you’re inspired to update your wardrobe:

• Designer Boutiques: Find high-end fashion at Crystals at CityCenter.
• Outlet Malls: Las Vegas North Premium Outlets offer discounts on popular brands.
• Vintage Stores: Explore shops in the Arts District for unique finds.

Planning Your First Las Vegas Trip (When You’re Not “All In” On Vegas Yet)

Here’s the good news: you can absolutely build a Las Vegas trip around good food, day trips, people-watching, and desert adventures, with gambling as a tiny side activity or not at all. The city works just as well for introverts, outdoorsy types, budget travelers, and couples who’d rather sip a coffee and watch the chaos than be the chaos.

Think of Vegas less as “Casino World” and more as a base camp in the desert with:

• Wild landscapes within an hour or two in every direction
• A ridiculous amount of shows, museums, and attractions
• Food options for everything from “counting coins” to “we’re celebrating something big”

Once you make that mental shift, Vegas becomes a lot more interesting.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas (By Vibe and Budget)

The classic first mistake is just blindly booking “something on The Strip” and then realizing you’re miles from everything you actually want to see. The second is staying dirt-cheap off-strip and spending all your savings on taxis.

Here’s a simple way to think about where to base yourself.

The Strip: South, Center, or North?

When people say “The Strip,” they’re usually talking about the main 4-ish mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard. But each part feels different.

*Very rough ballpark and wildly dependent on dates, events, and how far in advance you book.

South Strip

You’re closer to big, self-contained resorts with giant pool areas. Good if:

• You want resort days and don’t plan to move around constantly.
• You’re traveling as a couple or group and like the idea of “one big base,” with restaurants, shows, and pools right there.

It’s a bit more sprawled, though, so expect longer walks between properties.

Center Strip

This is the “postcard Vegas” bit: fountains, famous casinos, and insane people-watching.

Great if:

• It’s your first time and you’re only in town for 2–3 nights.
• You’re prioritizing shows, wandering, and hitting a few of the famous spots.
• You’d rather pay a bit more for the location and save time on transport.

You’ll walk a ton here, but you’re usually within a reasonable wander of where you want to be.

North Strip

Historically more hit-or-miss, but there are pockets that work well if:

• You’re watching your budget and don’t mind using the bus/monorail or rideshares.
• You want a bit more breathing room and fewer crowds right outside the door.

If you’re only in town for a short, first-time visit, I’d lean South or Center Strip. If you’re back for a repeat visit and know your spots, North Strip is fair game.

Downtown (Fremont Street): Old-School Chaos with Cheaper Beds

Downtown Las Vegas, around Fremont Street, feels like a totally different city. Neon signs, classic casinos, cheaper drinks, and a lot more gritty personality.

Good fit if:

• You like live music, people-watching, and slightly unpolished nightlife.
• You’d rather pay less for your room and don’t mind commuting to The Strip once per day.

You can:

• Stay downtown for the energy at night
• Use the bus or rideshare to hit The Strip during the day
• Walk most of the downtown core in flip-flops without melting your feet

Off-Strip & Suburban: Quiet Bases for Outdoor-Focused Trips

If you’re using Vegas as more of a launchpad than a destination, consider staying:

• Near Summerlin or Red Rock if your focus is hiking, climbing, and sunsets.
• In Henderson or other suburbs if you want a quieter base close to Lake Mead/Hoover Dam.

You won’t get the full “Vegas carnival” out your front door, but you gain:

• Easier parking
• Quieter nights
• Better access to trails and desert drives

For a first trip, I’d still base on or near the Strip or downtown. For a second trip where the outdoors is the main dish and The Strip is the side salad, the suburbs start to make sense.

Getting Around Without Destroying Your Feet (or Budget)

Vegas is the kind of place where you swear something is “just over there” and 45 minutes later you’re still walking toward the same blinking sign.

Walking: Great… Until It’s Not

Walking is fantastic for:

• Short hops between neighboring casinos
• Soaking in the street-level weirdness
• Late-night wanders under the lights

But remember:

• Desert heat is no joke, especially mid-day in summer.
• Distances are distorted by the sheer size of the buildings.
• You’ll be weaving through casinos, walkways, mall corridors, and pedestrian bridges.

If you’re packing, think:

• Ultra-comfy sneakers or walking sandals
• Socks that don’t rub
• Refillable water bottle (and actually use it)

Buses, Monorail, and Trams

If you’d like to preserve your knees (and relationship), mix in public transit.

• Deuce bus: Runs up and down the Strip and to downtown. Slow but simple.
• Strip & Downtown Express (or whatever express route is currently running): Fewer stops, faster, great if you’re bouncing between Strip and Fremont.
• Monorail: Runs behind the east side of the Strip. Handy if your hotel is near one of the stations.
• Free hotel trams: Some resort clusters have their own little trams linking neighboring properties.

None of this is complicated, but it does require a tiny bit of pre-trip map time so you’re not figuring it out in 40°C heat.

Rideshares, Taxis, and Driving

If you’re short on time or traveling as a group:

• Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are often cheaper than taxis and easy to use, but pick-up points are sometimes tucked away inside giant complexes.
• Taxis are fine for quick hops, especially late at night when you just want to be horizontal again.
• Rental cars make sense if:
  • You’re doing day trips (Red Rock, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire, Grand Canyon areas)
  • You’re staying off-strip
  • You don’t mind dealing with parking garages and the odd fee

I generally like a mix: walk + bus/monorail on Strip days, rental car for dedicated “escape to nature” days.

How Long to Stay (and What to Actually Do)

If you love planning, Vegas is paradise. If you don’t, it can be paralyzing. Here are two realistic templates you can bend to your style.

2–3 Day “First Taste of Vegas” Itinerary

Day 1 – Dive into The Strip

• Check into a Strip hotel and drop the bags
• Afternoon: wander through a few iconic casinos (pick 3–4 close to each other)
• Early evening: watch the Bellagio fountains, catch a sunset view somewhere high
• Night: one show (magic, Cirque, comedy) and a late-night wander

Day 2 – Choose Your Own Adventure

Option A – More Strip / Downtown

• Brunch buffet
• Pool time / spa / people-watching
• Head downtown in late afternoon: Fremont Street, light show, live music

Option B – Quick Nature Hit

• Half-day at Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire (with a rental car or tour)
• Back in town for dinner and one last nighttime stroll

4–5 Day “Strip + Outdoors” Itinerary

Day 1–2: Do the “First Taste” plan above, but at a slower pace. Add:

• A museum (Mob Museum or Neon Museum downtown)
• Coffee shop time or a long lunch people-watching

Day 3: Red Rock Canyon

• Scenic drive + 1–2 hikes (go early for cooler temperatures)
• Relaxing dinner back in Vegas, maybe a quieter neighborhood spot off-strip

Day 4: Hoover Dam + Lake Time

• Visit Hoover Dam for a tour and viewpoint
• Combine with chilling at Lake Mead or a kayak trip if you’re feeling active

Optional Day 5: Grand Canyon West (or keep it loose)

• Early start, long day, killer views
• Or just give yourself a “no-plan” Vegas day for wandering, snacking, and doing whatever caught your eye earlier in the trip

Budgeting for Las Vegas: What You’re Realistically Looking At

You can absolutely burn money in Vegas like it’s going out of style. But you can also keep things surprisingly sane if you’re intentional.

Here’s a very rough daily breakdown per person (excluding flights):

A few money-saving truths:

• Weekends, holidays, and big event dates can double or triple room prices. Mid-week can be shockingly cheaper.
• Resort fees and parking fees add up. Always check the fine print before booking.
• Drinks on casino floors are “free” when you gamble, but you’re still paying for them indirectly.

If you go in with a rough daily number and stick to it, Vegas goes from terrifying to manageable.

Eating & Drinking in Vegas Without Feeling Robbed

I went into Vegas expecting to survive on instant noodles and the occasional stolen bread roll. Instead we found:

• Over-the-top steakhouses
• Surprisingly good cheap eats
• A lot of ways to accidentally spend $20 on a coffee and pastry

Breakfast and Lunch: Don’t Blow the Budget Early

• Grab breakfast off-strip or in a more local café if you can wander beyond your hotel.
• Big portions are the norm; splitting dishes sometimes makes sense.
• Keep an eye out for weekday lunch specials—some nicer spots run really good midday deals.

Buffets vs Sit-Down Restaurants

Both have their place. Roughly:

If you’re only in town a couple of days, I like:

• One buffet (for the “it’s Vegas” experience)
• One proper sit-down dinner
• Everything else cheap and cheerful

Drinks: The Silent Budget Assassin

• Drinks on The Strip are rarely cheap, especially in clubs and pool parties.
• Pre-game in your room with a grocery store run if you’re planning big nights out.
• Day drinking in desert heat is a fast track to feeling wrecked. Alternate with water like your life depends on it.

Non-Gambling Fun That’s Actually Worth Your Time

When you strip away the slot machines, there’s still a lot of ridiculous fun left.

Shows and Live Performances

• Big, splashy productions (Cirque-style shows, concerts, residencies) if you want a “wow” night.
• Smaller comedy clubs if you’re watching the budget or just prefer laughter over acrobatics.
• Magic shows, mentalists, and variety acts for that old-school Vegas feel.

Buying in advance gets you the exact show and seats you want; last-minute and same-day booths can save you money but require flexibility.

Museums and “Only in Vegas” Experiences

I’m a sucker for quirky museums, and Vegas is stacked with them:

• Old-school neon sign boneyards
• Crime and mob history museums
• Offbeat exhibitions that feel like the city’s subconscious exploded in a warehouse

They’re a great way to give your ears a break from slot machines and your body a break from the sun.

Pools, Spas, and Simple Downtime

You don’t have to be going full “pool party with a DJ on a Tuesday afternoon” to enjoy pool time.

• Many hotels have quieter pools where you can read, nap, and occasionally slip into the water when you feel yourself cooking.
• A spa afternoon can be the perfect reset if you’ve been going hard on shows and late nights.

Build in at least one half-day of doing “nothing much” or you’ll leave more exhausted than when you arrived.

Easy Day Trips from Las Vegas (That Feel Like Different Worlds)

One of the coolest things about Vegas is how drastically the vibe changes once you drive 30–90 minutes out of town.

Red Rock Canyon: Desert Drama Close to the Strip

Distance: roughly 30–40 minutes by car from the Strip (depending on traffic)

Ideal if you:

• Want a half-day outdoors that still leaves time for a show at night
• Like scenic drives, short hikes, and big landscapes

Tips:

• Go early or late for softer light and cooler temperatures.
• Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
• Stick to marked trails; the desert doesn’t care how confident you feel.

Valley of Fire and Lake Mead: Fiery Rocks and Blue Water

Valley of Fire State Park is like Red Rock’s wilder cousin—glowing rock formations, petroglyphs, and almost otherworldly scenery. Combine it with:

• A drive along Lake Mead
• A quick dip or picnic by the water

Best as a full-day outing with a rental car. Pack snacks, hats, and sunblock like you’re overdoing it. You’re not.

Hoover Dam: Concrete, History, and Views

Hoover Dam is one of those places where the engineering almost feels as impressive as the canyon itself.

Good to know:

• There are short tours if you’re into history and mechanics.
• Even a quick stop for viewpoints and photos is worth it if you’re passing by en route to other spots.

You can easily tie Hoover Dam into a Lake Mead day or even a Grand Canyon West Rim trip.

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas (By Season and Style)

There’s no single “perfect” time. It depends on whether you’re chasing pool weather, hiking conditions, or low prices.

If you:

• Love pools and nightlife: spring–early summer or early autumn
• Prefer hiking, museums, and long walks: autumn and spring, or even winter
• Care mostly about price: look at mid-week dates in shoulder seasons

Whatever you pick, check your dates against big conventions, festivals, and fight nights—those can transform a normal week into “why is every room three times the price?”

Las Vegas First-Timer Questions Answered: Practical Tips, Surprises & Local-Style Advice

Is Las Vegas still worth visiting if I don’t like gambling or clubbing?

Yes. Las Vegas absolutely works even if you never touch a slot machine or step into a nightclub. You can fill your days with desert hikes, day trips to canyons and lakes, long walks up and down the Strip people-watching, and evenings at shows, museums, and great restaurants. If you treat Vegas as a weird desert base camp with lots of options rather than a gambling temple, it suddenly opens up for introverts, outdoorsy types, and anyone who just wants a change of scene.

How many days do you recommend for a first trip to Las Vegas?

It depends. For a first trip I think 2–3 nights is the sweet spot if you mostly want to see the Strip, catch a show, and dip your toes into the chaos. If you also want to do at least one proper day trip to Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire, or even a Grand Canyon rim, then 4–5 nights starts to feel a lot more relaxed. Anything longer than that and I’d plan clear “off Strip” days so you don’t burn out on neon and noise.

When is the best time of year to visit Las Vegas for good weather?

Personally, I like Vegas in spring and autumn when the days are warm, the evenings feel good for walking, and you can still comfortably get outside into the desert. Winter is perfectly visitable too, with cooler days that are ideal for museums, food, and wandering the casinos without worrying about heat. Summer is full-on pool season and party energy, but the midday heat can be brutal, so I’d only pick those months if you really love hot weather and plan to build your days around shade, air-con, and water.

How hot does Las Vegas actually get, and how do I cope with the heat?

Hot. Like open-an-oven-door hot when you step outside in the afternoon. In summer it is totally normal for daytime highs to climb well above 35°C (95°F), and the sun feels extra intense because you are in the desert. The way to survive it is boring but effective: walk more at night or early morning, stay hydrated, wear a hat and light clothing, take advantage of indoor walkways between casinos, and do your big outdoor adventures as early or as late in the day as you can.

Is Las Vegas safe to walk around, especially at night on and off the Strip?

Mostly. The main parts of the Strip and downtown Fremont Street are busy tourist zones where you are more likely to run into drunk people and pickpockets than anything truly dangerous. I still keep my phone and wallet zipped away, avoid obviously wasted strangers, and stick to well-lit areas if I am walking at night. Off-strip, late at night, I am a bit more cautious and would rather grab a rideshare than wander down quiet side streets just to save a few dollars.

Do I need to rent a car in Las Vegas, or can I rely on public transport and rideshares?

Not necessarily. If you are sticking to the Strip and downtown you can get by with walking, the Deuce bus, the monorail, and rideshares like Uber and Lyft. A rental car starts to make more sense if you are planning multiple day trips to Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam, or the Grand Canyon, or if you are staying in a quieter off-strip neighborhood like Summerlin or Henderson. My favorite combo is no car for pure Strip days, then rent wheels for one or two dedicated “escape to nature” days.

Where should I stay in Las Vegas if I’m on a budget but still want a good location?

For a first visit on a budget I generally look at South or Center Strip mid-range hotels, or a reasonably reviewed place downtown near Fremont Street. The trick is to compare the full nightly cost including resort fees and taxes, not just the headline room rate, because those extras can easily add a big chunk to your bill. Mid-week stays and shoulder seasons can be dramatically cheaper than weekends and big event dates, so if your dates are flexible you can often upgrade your location without blowing the budget.

Is Las Vegas a good destination for kids or teens, or is it really just for adults?

Surprisingly, yes. Vegas can work with kids or teens if you build the trip around pools, day trips, family-friendly shows, and hands-on attractions like museums or observation wheels. The downsides are obvious: lots of smoking, late-night noise, drunk adults, and some very not-PG street life, especially later in the evening on the Strip and downtown. If I were bringing younger kids I’d lean toward a more resort-style hotel with good pools, keep bedtime walks earlier, and balance city time with plenty of outdoor adventures.

Can I visit Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, or Hoover Dam without booking a tour?

Absolutely. If you are comfortable driving, renting a car for a day gives you maximum freedom to explore Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, or Hoover Dam on your own schedule. Red Rock is roughly a 30–40 minute drive from the Strip, Hoover Dam is around 45 minutes, and Valley of Fire is more like a full-day outing once you factor in the drive and stops. If you really do not want to drive, there are plenty of small-group tours that handle the logistics for you, but self-drive is usually cheaper and more flexible.

Is a Grand Canyon day trip from Las Vegas actually worth it, or is it too rushed?

It depends. Grand Canyon West is closer to Las Vegas, so it is the more realistic day trip if you just want a quick hit of canyon views and maybe the Skywalk, but it is not the classic postcard South Rim that most people picture. The South Rim is farther away and works better as an overnight trip or part of a longer road trip loop through Arizona and Utah. If you only have a few days total in Vegas, I would personally prioritize closer day trips like Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, or Hoover Dam rather than spending most of a day in the car.

What’s a realistic daily budget in Las Vegas if I want to enjoy myself but not go broke?

Realistically, most people land somewhere between mid-range and treat-yourself without meaning to. On the low end, you can scrape by on something like 70–120 USD per person per day if you share a cheap room, stick to buses and walking, chase food deals, and focus on free attractions. A more comfortable middle ground where you stay in a solid hotel, mix casual meals with a few nicer ones, use some rideshares, and pay for one activity or show most days will often land in the 150–250 USD per person range. Once you start adding fancy dinners, clubs, and premium shows on top of Strip-front hotels, it is very easy to sail past 300–400 USD per person per day.

What should I wear in Las Vegas so I’m comfortable but don’t feel out of place?

The nice thing about Vegas is that pretty much every style shows up somewhere. For daytime on the Strip and in the desert I lean into comfort first: breathable shirts, shorts or light trousers, a hat, sunglasses, and seriously good walking shoes. At night you can dress up a bit if you are going to nicer bars, shows, or restaurants, but you will not be out of place in smart-casual clothes; think jeans and a shirt or a simple dress rather than full red-carpet glamour. The main non-negotiables for me are shoes I can walk miles in and a light layer for overly air-conditioned casinos.

How bad are resort fees in Las Vegas, and is there any way around them?

Annoying. Many Las Vegas hotels add a mandatory nightly resort fee on top of the base room rate, which can cover things like Wi-Fi, gym access, and amenities you may never use. That fee can easily add dozens of dollars per night, so it is crucial to check the final price before you book and compare like-for-like. If resort fees drive you nuts, look for downtown or off-strip properties with lower fees, the occasional no-resort-fee deal, or use hotel points where the sting of the fee feels a little less painful.

What are some underrated non-gambling things to do in and around Las Vegas?

There are loads. My personal favorites are the quirky museums like the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum, wandering the Arts District for coffee and street art, and just sitting with a drink watching the world go by instead of constantly chasing the next attraction. Outside the city, short hikes and scenic drives around Red Rock Canyon or longer loops out toward Valley of Fire and Lake Mead make Vegas feel completely different. If you treat non-gambling time as the main event rather than the filler between casino sessions, you will see a whole different side of the city.

Common First-Timer Mistakes to Dodge

Vegas will happily punish the unprepared. A few pitfalls to sidestep:

• Underestimating distances and heat – You’re not weak; the scale and sun are just that intense.
• Ignoring resort fees and taxes – That “great deal” might not be so great once all the extras are added.
• Overloading your schedule – Two shows in one night plus a big dinner and a day trip? Sounds heroic, feels horrible.
• Living on nothing but booze and buffet food – Fun on night one, less fun by day three.
• Never leaving The Strip – Downtown and the desert are half the fun.

Final Thoughts: Las Vegas

The unofficial sixth surprise is that I’d be more than willing to come back. I had a grand old time in Vegas, and I tried my best to sample as many different aspects of the city and the surrounding nearby areas as I possibly could. I left wishing I had a few more days to linger when I thought initially I’d be thrilled to eventually leave. Vegas, I’m hooked—the biggest surprise of all.

More to come of our weekend trip to Las Vegas with Expedia Canada.