Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas, located in the Mojave Desert of southern Nevada, is one of the top travel destinations in the United States. Known for its dazzling lights, themed resorts, casinos, shopping, and shows, the city welcomes over 40 million visitors annually. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, international vacation, honeymoon, or road trip, Las Vegas offers something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.
Getting There
The main airport is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), located just a few minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. It serves nonstop flights from major cities across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
By air
- International flights connect through major hubs like LAX, JFK, and Toronto
- Domestic travelers can fly direct from most U.S. cities
By car
- From Los Angeles – Approximately 4 to 5 hours via I-15
- From Phoenix – About 5 to 6 hours via US-93
- From the Grand Canyon West – About 2 hours
Ground transportation options include taxis, ride shares (Uber, Lyft), rental cars, and hotel shuttles.
Where to Stay
Las Vegas is home to world-famous themed resorts that offer entertainment, dining, and shopping all in one place.
Luxury hotels
- Bellagio – Famous for its fountain show and botanical conservatory
- The Venetian – Italian-themed resort with indoor canals and gondolas
- Wynn and Encore – Known for elegance, high-end service, and design
- Aria – Sleek, modern, and technology-enhanced comfort
Mid-range and themed hotels
- Paris Las Vegas – Offers a replica of the Eiffel Tower
- New York-New York – Styled after Manhattan with a roller coaster
- MGM Grand – One of the largest hotels in the world with a wide range of amenities
- Planet Hollywood – A modern hotel with a pop-culture twist
Budget-friendly choices
- The LINQ Hotel + Experience – Affordable with a prime location
- Excalibur – Medieval-themed family-friendly hotel
- Circus Circus – Offers a built-in indoor amusement park
Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street) also features more budget-conscious hotels with a nostalgic Las Vegas feel.
Things to Do in Las Vegas
The Strip
This iconic 4-mile stretch is where most of the major attractions are located. Explore each resort’s unique theme and stop for photos, shopping, or signature drinks.
- Bellagio Fountains – Free water and music show every 15 to 30 minutes
- The Volcano at The Mirage – Erupts nightly with fire and sound (check for show status)
- High Roller – Observation wheel at The LINQ, one of the tallest in the world
- The Eiffel Tower Experience – At Paris Las Vegas, offering 360-degree city views
- Gondola Rides – Romantic indoor and outdoor rides at The Venetian
Entertainment
Las Vegas is known for its high-quality shows, concerts, and residencies.
- Cirque du Soleil – Multiple productions, including O, KA, The Beatles LOVE
- Headliners – Major artists like Adele, Usher, Bruno Mars, and Garth Brooks (subject to schedule)
- Magic and Comedy – David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, and rotating stand-up acts
- Nightlife – Exclusive clubs like XS, Omnia, Marquee, and Zouk bring world-class DJs
Dining and Food Experiences
Las Vegas is a paradise for food lovers, from celebrity chef restaurants to famous buffets.
- Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace – Considered one of the best in the city
- Hell’s Kitchen – Gordon Ramsay’s signature restaurant across from Caesars
- Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand – Fine dining with a French twist
- Chinatown (on Spring Mountain Road) – Local favorite for authentic Asian cuisine
Shopping
- The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace – Upscale shopping in a Roman setting
- Grand Canal Shoppes – Venetian-themed shopping with canal views
- Fashion Show Mall – Popular brands and department stores
- Las Vegas Premium Outlets – North (outdoor) and South (indoor) options for discounts
Outdoor and Nearby Attractions
If you want a break from the lights, Las Vegas is also a gateway to beautiful desert landscapes and outdoor adventure.
- Red Rock Canyon – Hiking, biking, and scenic drives just 30 minutes away
- Hoover Dam – Historic engineering marvel and Lake Mead views
- Valley of Fire State Park – Striking red rock formations, 1 hour northeast
- Grand Canyon West & Skywalk – 2-hour drive to a thrilling glass bridge overlooking the canyon
- Lake Las Vegas and Lake Mead – For kayaking, paddleboarding, or relaxing by the water
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) – Warm days and mild evenings, ideal for outdoor activities
Summer (June to August) – Very hot (often over 100°F/38°C) but best for pool parties, nightclubs, and indoor shows
Autumn (September to November) – Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Winter (December to February) – Cool and quieter, with lower hotel prices except on New Year’s Eve
Getting Around
- Walking – Easy along the Strip, though distances can be longer than they appear
- Monorail – Runs behind the east side of the Strip with seven major stops
- Ride shares and taxis – Widely available and fast
- Buses – The Deuce runs up and down the Strip and to Fremont Street
- Rental cars – Useful if you plan to leave the city for nearby parks or day trips
Travel Tips
- Most hotels charge daily resort fees ($30 to $50) on top of the booking price
- Hydration is essential, especially when walking outdoors
- Book shows, fine dining, and club entries well in advance
- Many attractions have smart casual dress codes
- Tipping is customary: 15% to 20% for meals and services
- Use crosswalks and pedestrian bridges – Strip traffic can be dangerous
Suggested Trip Length
- 2–3 days – Ideal for first-time visitors to explore the Strip, see a show, and enjoy nightlife
- 4–5 days – Adds time for day trips to Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam
- 6+ days – Explore both the Strip and Fremont Street, relax at a resort, and visit nearby national parks
