Let’s be real: When you get to Vegas, things tend to become a sort of a neon blur fueled by adrenaline and punctuated by the sights and sounds of slot machines. That infectious environment is precisely why people seek it out as an escape, and why it is so important to try and plan at least some details of your trip before all the shiny distractions come into play.
After spending six years living in Vegas and countless trips to popular and local hangouts, I’ve compiled a short list of tips, ranging from packing essentials to activity recommendations for you to take into consideration when planning your next trip.
Have a favorite spot or tip of your own? Leave it for us at the bottom of the article!
Location, Location, Location
There is a reason why that phrase has remained popular throughout the years, location truly does matter. Vegas has a number of neighborhoods to think about, but there are two most common options for people to choose from: Downtown (Fremont Street) and The Strip. When planning your Vegas trip it is important to note what elements are most important to you. Are you looking to be in the middle of stereotypical Vegas or are you looking for something more walkable with arguably just as much to do?
If you immediately picture yourself admiring the Bellagio Fountains, you may want to consider staying somewhere on The Strip. From there you can catch shows, dine at hundreds of options, and bask in the impressive architecture of more recent years.
As for me, I am a self proclaimed “Downtown Rat.” Having grown up on the East Coast, I appreciate the ease of navigating Downtown, walking from casino to casino while taking in the Fremont Street Experience canopy and the ever amusing (sometimes frightening) street performers. Downtown Vegas is also steeped in history and while some casinos are brand-new, windows into the past are very easily spotted and appreciated.
Bonus Tip: In case you missed it, Brian Christopher has a partnership with The Plaza! The Plaza is a fan favorite of mine for a number of reasons including Oscar’s Steakhouse, the bingo offerings, and it is one of the more stress free parking options thanks to their self contained garage and parking validation terms.
“But it’s a dry heat!”
I’m guilty of advocating for the weather conditions of Vegas by using that over spoken line. While it’s true Vegas is considered a dry heat and that lack of humidity does tend to help with walking around outside when it’s 108 degrees, it also means moisture is essentially being sucked out of your body.
For that very reason, packing chapstick and skin moisturizer are included near the top of our list. Hotels in Vegas are typically good about providing lotions and other toiletries (depending on where you stay), but they often overlook the chapstick and moisturizer. When planning your Vegas trip, be sure to add these to your luggage otherwise you’ll be headed to a nearby ABC Store to pay tourist prices.
Let’s Eat!
While most things can be done on the fly in Vegas, one thing that you will definitely want to consider before you arrive are dinner reservations. Reservations at well-known spots throughout the city can fill up pretty quickly so it is important to stay on top of it if there is a specific place you’d like to go. Some reservations to keep an eye on include Top of Binion’s Steakhouse, Battista’s Hole in the Wall, and, of course, Golden Steer.
Golden Steer is a historic steakhouse that originally opened in 1958 and over the years has welcomed some of the most notable faces of Sin City. Because of its long history, dependable service, and authentic vintage charm, Golden Steer has become one of the toughest reservations to get in the entire valley.
If you want to live like Brian Christopher, he enjoys his meals at Oscar’s Steakhouse at Plaza as well! But be sure to make reservations early, as during busier times they fill up fast.
Day Adventures
Every vacation needs a little variety! To break up your next Vegas trip, think about taking a day adventure. The Arts District is a great area of Vegas to allocate a couple hours of exploration. This eccentric area offers a little bit of everything including a fair share of vintage and antique stores allowing for the perfect spot to hunt for a more personalized souvenir. After taking in the shops you can head over to grab a bite to eat or stop by one of the kitschy bars for a drink.
Bonus Tip: If you are a tattoo person, The Arts District also offers a spot for $10 tattoos including ones with Vegas elements.
Museums
When thinking about things to do in Vegas, most people don’t automatically think “museums” but there are actually a TON of very well done options to check out next time you visit.
The Pin Ball Hall of Fame does a phenomenal job showing the evolution of the arcade game while showcasing pop culture from recent and not so recent decades. For true history buffs, The Atomic Museum is a great option located not too far from The Strip that examines that chapter of tumultuous global history.
If you can only visit one museum, The Neon Museum is an absolute show stopper that highlights the beautiful lights of Vegas from year’s past. While you can visit during the day, visiting at night allows the signs to be enjoyed to their fullest potential, and you will not be disappointed with the pictures you take along the way.
