Are you headed to Las Vegas for the first time?
Las Vegas is one of my all time favorite destinations in the U.S! I’ve been traveling there since I was born (literally) and have now visited 35+ times in my 28 years of life. Aside from just gambling, I love the countless restaurant options, beautiful pools, the dry heat, and the overall vibe of the city as a whole.
Las Vegas can be pretty overwhelming on your first visit, with so many options on where to stay and what to do! Thankfully, I’ve put together this list so that you can make the most out of your visit!
Here are my top 5 tips for your first visit to Las Vegas:
Tip 1: Stay on the Strip
Las Vegas Boulevard, known as the Las Vegas Strip, is a world famous stretch of casinos, hotels, and attractions. It is home to the city’s best sights, food, and fun, and what most people think of when they picture Sin City. With it’s flashing neon lights, countless street performers, and nonstop nightlife, the Las Vegas strip is definitely the place you want to call home for your first visit (and every visit after that, if you ask me.)
Stretching over four miles long, the Strip is home to over 30 different hotels. Ranging from best of the best luxury to small budget, there are options here for everyone! You can find a wide range of choices, with hotel rooms anywhere from $30-$500 a night, depending on where you stay. For a first timer, I would recommend staying somewhere in the center of the Strip, so that you are within walking distance to all the best attractions in both directions
Tip 2: Bring Sun Protection and Stay Hydrated
Las Vegas is smack dab in the middle of the desert. Therefore, the sun gets HOT. Depending on the time of year that you visit, the heat can be downright brutal, so you want to make sure that you’re prepared. Sun screen will be your best friend, even on days that you don’t think you need it, and hats are a good idea to protect your head if you plan to venture out walking.
My family and I always visit during the summer months (June, July, August) when it is pretty normal for temperatures to exceed 110 degrees at times. Because of this, it is easy to dehydrate pretty quickly, especially when you’ve been enjoying quite a few alcoholic beverages. Make sure to drink LOTS AND LOTS of water, and take advantage of dipping in and out of the lovely air conditioned casinos if you are outside walking during the peak summer months.
Tip 3: Take Advantage of the Free Drinks
The first time my husband came with me to Vegas, he was shocked to find out that it was possible to drink for free in the casinos. It’s true! While you are sitting at either a slot machine or table in the casino, actively gambling, servers walk around 24/7 asking “Drinks? Cocktails?” You simply tell them what you’d like and voilà!
Depending on the time of day and how busy the casino is, service tends to be a little on the slower side, however you typically will have a drink in your hand within 10 minutes. This is a HUGE money saver, especially if you plan on having quite a few beverages throughout your day. However, it is common courtesy to tip your server each time you order (just $1 per drink will do) or else there’s a good chance you won’t see them coming around to you again.
Tip 4: BRUNCH
BRUNCH, BRUNCH, BRUNCH. I can’t say it enough. Las Vegas is a food lovers dream, with hundreds of different restaurants to choose from. There are so many options, with no right or wrong choice, but if there is one thing that is not to be missed on your first visit – it’s brunch.
Brunch in Las Vegas is an event. An experience. Starting in the early morning and stretching late into the afternoon, there is truly something for everyone, all days of the week. Looking for classic breakfast favorites? Places like Grand Lux Cafe, Peppermill, and Hash House a Go Go are sure to satisfy your cravings. Interested in something a little more unique? Check out Mon Ami Gabi, Chica, and Lavo (famous for their over-the-top party brunch) for a true take on brunch, Vegas style.
Tip 5: Spend More Than a Weekend
One of the biggest misconceptions on Las Vegas is that it’s just a whirlwind weekend destination. This could not be farther from the truth. As a city that’s known for it’s gambling and nightlife, it’s easy to see why people tend to shy away from spending more than just a couple of days there. However, aside from the casinos and bars, there is so much more to do and see in Vegas that you physically cannot experience in just two days.
Las Vegas is home to some of the best pools and spas in the world. I’ve gotten some of the best massages of my life in Las Vegas (Canyon Ranch, I’m looking at you.) And one of my favorite things to do is spend the morning relaxing poolside, especially when the temperature is exceeding 100 degrees.
After a crazy night out (or two…or three…) a relaxing pool day is just what you need to rest and recharge. Rent an air conditioned cabana and enjoy every second of it.
And how can we forget about the entertainment? From comedy shows, to dinner theaters, and acrobatic Cirque Du Soleil performances, there is something to suite everyones taste. In all my times to Vegas, I’ve never seen the same show twice, and there are tons I’ve yet to experience! If you’re looking for a night away from the clubs and casinos, you can’t go wrong with a show.
And there you have it! These are my top 5 tips for first time visitors to Las Vegas! I hope this helps anyone who’s planning a trip, and I’d love to hear any of your top tips for your Vegas vacation in the comments below!
