las vegas

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Overview

Las Vegas is a vibrant city known for its 24-hour casinos, elaborate hotels, fine dining, and entertainment shows. It serves as a leading financial, commercial, and cultural center for Nevada.

History

Founded in 1905, Las Vegas was established as a city in 1911. It is famously known as the 'Gambling Capital of the World' and has a rich history intertwined with the construction of the nearby Hoover Dam, organized crime, and the entertainment industry.

Culture

Las Vegas is a melting pot of cultures with a diverse population, including a significant Hispanic community, and it's known for its celebration of cultural events and festivals.

Interesting Facts

  • The Las Vegas Strip is the brightest place on Earth when looked at from space.
  • There are more than 150 casinos in Las Vegas.
  • The iconic 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign was created in 1959.
  • The city has a 'black book,' a list of banned people from all casinos.
  • Las Vegas is home to the largest gold nugget on display, named 'The Hand of Faith'.
  • It wasn't until 1931 that gambling was legalized in Nevada.
  • The famous Las Vegas Strip is actually located just outside the city limits.
  • Las Vegas hosts more than 22,000 conventions annually.
  • The Luxor Las Vegas' Sphinx is a 101-foot-high replica of the Great Sphinx of Giza.
  • More than 41 million people visit Las Vegas each year.
  • The Bellagio hotel has more rooms than the number of residents in Bellagio, Italy.
  • The Bronze lion outside of the MGM Grand Hotel weighs 50 tons.
  • The Stratosphere Tower is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the USA.
  • Las Vegas casinos never use dice with rounded corners.
  • Many of the largest hotel, casino, and resort properties in the world are located on the Las Vegas Strip.

Expert Advice

  • Book shows and hotels in advance for better deals.
  • Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as it can be very hot.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the strip is long and walking is common.
  • Be aware of peak seasons such as New Year's Eve and major conventions.
  • Take advantage of free attractions like the Bellagio fountains.
  • Set a gambling budget to avoid overspending.
  • Explore beyond the Strip to Downtown Las Vegas and the Arts District.
  • Utilize ride-sharing services for convenient transportation.
  • Join players clubs for potential discounts and rewards.
  • Be mindful of time while gambling; the casinos do not have clocks.

People on Budget

  • Look for hotel and flight packages.
  • Visit attractions during weekdays to avoid higher weekend pricing.
  • Use coupons and discounts available in visitor guides and online.
  • Eat at off-strip restaurants for better price-quality ratios.
  • Take advantage of happy hours for discounted food and drinks.
  • Use the Deuce bus or the monorail for budget-friendly Strip transportation.
  • Avoid ATM machines at casinos to save on withdrawal fees.
  • Watch out for resort fees when booking hotels.
  • Purchase refillable drinks bottles if staying for a few days.

Emergency Details

  • Police (Non-Emergency): 702-828-3111
  • Fire Department (Non-Emergency): 702-383-2888
  • University Medical Center: 702-383-2000
  • Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center: 702-731-8000
  • Emergency Medical Services: Dial 911

Weather

Las Vegas experiences a subtropical hot desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. Average summer highs are around 104°F (40°C), and winter highs are around 58°F (14°C).

Ideal time to visit

The best time to visit Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Top Places to Visit in las vegas

las vegas caters to all tastes. Below, we have picked some crowd favorites. Prepare for memorable experiences that will leave a lasting impression:

  • Visit the casinos and try your luck at gambling.
  • Watch a live show, such as Cirque du Soleil or a resident performer.
  • Explore the Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas.
  • Ride the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel.
  • Visit the Neon Museum to see historic Las Vegas signs.
  • Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam.
  • Enjoy a gondola ride at The Venetian.
  • Experience the thrill rides at the Stratosphere.
  • Tour the Mob Museum to learn about Las Vegas' history with organized crime.
  • View the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
  • Check out the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
  • Shop at the numerous luxury retail outlets.
  • Relax at one of the many world-class spas.
  • Attend one of the many pool parties during the summer.
  • Explore the Las Vegas Arts District.
Image for Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Where Your Las Vegas Adventure Begins!

Image for Pinball Hall of Fame

Pinball Hall of Fame

Step into Retro Gaming Paradise at Pinball Hall of Fame

Image for Mandalay Bay and The Shark Reef Aquarium

Mandalay Bay and The Shark Reef Aquarium

Explore the mystifying underwater world of Mandalay Bay's Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas!

Top Places to Eat in las vegas

las vegas boasts a plethora of exceptional dining choices. Below, we highlight a few must-try options not to be missed during your visit. Prepare to savor the culinary delights that await you:

  • Buffet at Bellagio: An upscale buffet featuring a wide variety of cuisines.
  • Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen: Experience fine dining with menu items inspired by the TV show.
  • In-N-Out Burger: A West Coast burger chain known for its fresh burgers and fries.
  • Joël Robuchon: Gourmet French restaurant located in the MGM Grand.
  • Lotus of Siam: Renowned Thai restaurant off the Strip.
  • Peppermill: Classic Vegas diner with oversized portions and a retro vibe.
  • Tacos el Gordo: Authentic Mexican street-style tacos.
  • Giada at The Cromwell: Italian cuisine with a California influence from celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis.
  • Le Thai: A popular spot for Thai food in Downtown Las Vegas.
  • Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas: French bistro with patio seating and views of the Bellagio fountains.
  • Eggslut at The Cosmopolitan: Trendy breakfast and brunch spot famous for its egg sandwiches.
  • Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace: Newly remodeled buffet offering numerous international dishes.
  • Secret Pizza at The Cosmopolitan: Hidden pizza spot known for its New York-style slices.
  • Nobu at Caesars Palace: High-end Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine.
  • Bazaar Meat by José Andrés at Sahara Las Vegas: A carnivore's paradise with a diverse selection of meats.

Eggslut

Boulevard Tower, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S Level 2, las vegas

Sandwiches, Cafe

Lotus of Siam

620 E Flamingo Rd, las vegas

Thai Restaurant, Seafood Restaurant

Secret Pizza

Boulevard Tower, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S Level 3, las vegas

Pizzeria

Sadelle's

Bellagio Hotel & Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, las vegas

American (traditional), Bagels, Brunch

Plan Your Trip to las vegas

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