The Strip, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the most famous stretches of road in the world, known for its dazzling lights, luxury hotels, casinos, entertainment venues, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this vibrant destination.
The Strip (Las Vegas) Travel Guide
Getting There
Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport (LAS) is just a short drive from The Strip. Taxis, rideshares, and shuttle services are readily available, and many hotels offer airport transfers. Once on The Strip, walking is common, but the Las Vegas Monorail and buses offer convenient transportation up and down the boulevard.
Best Time to Visit
Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but the weather can be quite hot during summer, with temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C). Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, making it more comfortable for walking and sightseeing. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays are busier, so if you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit during the week.
Top Attractions (From South to North)
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
The iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Las Vegas, and a must-see for any visitor to the city. The sign is located on the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, just beyond the Mandalay Bay Hotel and the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport. It’s easy to reach by car, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, or even by walking if you’re staying nearby.
Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a must-visit for both retro gaming enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Located just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, this one-of-a-kind attraction houses the world’s largest collection of pinball machines, spanning decades of history from the 1950s to modern times. It’s a nostalgic journey through the evolution of pinball, offering an interactive experience where visitors can play on vintage machines for just a few quarters.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay ★
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas is a must-visit for ocean lovers and families alike. This stunning aquarium offers a break from the neon lights of the Strip, immersing you in a world of marine life and exotic animals. The aquarium is home to over 2,000 species, including sharks, rays, endangered green sea turtles, piranhas, and even a Komodo dragon. It’s an engaging and educational experience designed to bring visitors closer to some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.
Mandalay Bay ★★★
Mandalay Bay, located on the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, is a luxurious resort known for its tropical themes, vast pool area, world-class dining, and entertainment. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, Mandalay Bay offers a little something for everyone, from casino games to live shows, and fine dining to beachside lounging.
Luxor Hotel & Casino ★★★
Luxor Hotel & Casino is one of the most iconic resorts on the Las Vegas Strip. Known for its pyramid shape, towering obelisk, and stunning light beam that can be seen from miles away, the Luxor offers a unique blend of ancient Egyptian-themed architecture, modern entertainment, and world-class amenities. Whether you’re looking to gamble, relax, or take in a show, Luxor has something for everyone.
Excalibur Hotel & Casino ★★★
Inspired by the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, Excalibur offers a medieval-themed experience. Its iconic castle-like exterior and fun, family-friendly atmosphere make it a favorite among Las Vegas visitors. The hotel offers a variety of entertainment, gaming options, dining experiences, and affordable accommodation, catering to both families and adults.
New York-New York Hotel & Casino ★★★
Located on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, New York-New York Hotel & Casino offers guests a taste of the Big Apple with its striking skyline replica and vibrant atmosphere. This popular resort combines the excitement of New York City with the thrill of Las Vegas, providing a unique experience for visitors.
ARIA Resort & Casino ★★
Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, ARIA Resort & Casino is a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury, entertainment, and a world-class experience. Known for its modern architecture, sophisticated amenities, and eco-friendly design, ARIA is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy the best of what Las Vegas has to offer.
Fountains of Bellagio ★★★
One of The Strip’s most iconic sights, the Bellagio Fountains put on a stunning show of water, music, and lights every 15-30 minutes in the evening. It’s a must-see for any visitor.
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens ★★
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, located inside the famous Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, is a must-see attraction that features stunning, themed floral displays that change with the seasons. Each exhibit is meticulously crafted using thousands of flowers, plants, and other decorative elements. The conservatory offers an enchanting escape from the fast-paced energy of the Las Vegas Strip, providing visitors with a serene and awe-inspiring experience.
Paris Las Vegas ★★★
Paris Las Vegas is a unique and vibrant resort located on the famous Las Vegas Strip. Combining the charm of the City of Light with the excitement of Las Vegas, this hotel and casino offers a taste of Parisian culture with its architecture, dining, and entertainment options.
The Venetian
Experience a slice of Venice with gondola rides through the canals inside The Venetian Hotel. The attention to detail, including replicas of St. Mark’s Square, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Caesars Palace
This Roman-themed hotel and casino is home to high-end shopping at The Forum Shops, world-class restaurants, and the famous Colosseum theater, where top entertainers perform.
The High Roller ★
The world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller, offers breathtaking views of The Strip and the surrounding desert. A ride at sunset or night is especially memorable.
The Venetian Las Vegas ★★★
The Venetian, opened in 1999, is known for its stunning architecture, gondola rides, and an array of world-class dining and entertainment options. The resort offers a unique experience that combines opulence with the charm of Italian culture, making it a must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip.
The Mirage Volcano
The Mirage Volcano in Las Vegas is one of the city’s most iconic attractions, offering an exciting free outdoor show that combines fire, water, and music into a captivating spectacle. Located in front of The Mirage Hotel on the famous Las Vegas Strip, this man-made volcano erupts nightly, drawing crowds of visitors eager to witness its fiery display.
Sphere ★★★
The Sphere in Las Vegas is a groundbreaking entertainment venue that offers an immersive experience like no other. Located adjacent to The Venetian Resort, this futuristic structure is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s a high-tech entertainment hub designed to showcase concerts, shows, and visual experiences in ways never seen before. With its unique design and state-of-the-art technologies, the Sphere is a must-visit destination for both tourists and entertainment enthusiasts.
Wynn Las Vegas ★★
Wynn Las Vegas is a luxurious resort and casino that epitomizes the glamour and excitement of Las Vegas. Known for its stunning architecture, exquisite dining options, and world-class entertainment, Wynn is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a lavish experience.
The Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park ★
The Adventuredome is a massive 5-acre indoor amusement park under a glass dome, featuring a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment options. From thrilling roller coasters to carnival games and 4D shows, the park offers more than 25 rides and attractions, making it one of the largest indoor theme parks in the U.S.
SAW Escape Room ★
The Official SAW Escape Room in Las Vegas is one of the most immersive and adrenaline-pumping escape rooms in the world. Inspired by the iconic SAW horror movie franchise, this multi-room experience is designed to test your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and courage as you navigate through scenarios straight from the films. It’s not just a game; it’s an intense survival experience that challenges both your mind and nerves.
Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum
Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum, located in downtown Las Vegas, offers an eerie yet fascinating experience for thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Owned by Zak Bagans, host of Ghost Adventures, the museum is home to a vast collection of haunted artifacts, cursed objects, and macabre memorabilia. Spread across 30 rooms in a historic 1930s mansion, the museum provides an unsettling yet immersive journey into the paranormal world.
Discovery Children’s Museum
Discovery Children’s Museum is a three-story, 58,000-square-foot facility filled with interactive exhibits that focus on science, art, and technology. It encourages learning through play, making it an excellent destination for children to explore, discover, and develop their creativity.
Fremont Street Experience ★★★
Located in downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street offers a more vintage Vegas vibe. The Fremont Street Experience is a pedestrian-only street covered by a massive LED canopy that puts on dazzling light shows at night. Street performers, live music, and zip lining add to the fun.
The Mob Museum ★
Located in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada, The Mob Museum (officially called The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement) offers a captivating journey into the history of organized crime and its relationship with law enforcement. Set in a historic federal courthouse building, the museum explores the dark yet fascinating world of notorious gangsters, mob-related events, and the efforts to combat crime in the U.S.
The Neon Museum Las Vegas ★
The Neon Museum in Las Vegas, also known as the Neon Boneyard, is a fascinating open-air museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing iconic neon signs from the city’s storied past. If you’re intrigued by the vintage charm of Las Vegas and want to take a walk down memory lane, this museum is a must-visit. It features over 200 retired neon signs from old casinos, hotels, and local businesses, offering a glimpse into the vibrant history of the city’s legendary neon-lit skyline.
Entertainment & Shows
Las Vegas is known for its wide variety of shows, from Cirque du Soleil productions like O and Mystère, to headline concerts by stars such as Adele, Elton John, and Celine Dion. You can also find comedy acts, magic shows (David Copperfield and Penn & Teller are crowd favorites), and Broadway-style productions.
Nightlife & Casinos
The Strip is home to some of the best nightlife in the world. Clubs like Omnia (Caesars Palace), XS (Wynn), and Marquee (The Cosmopolitan) are popular spots for dancing and live DJ performances. Each hotel has its own casino, where you can try your luck at slot machines, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Remember to gamble responsibly!
Shopping
Las Vegas offers a luxurious shopping experience. The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, The Shops at Crystals, and The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian provide an array of designer boutiques. For more affordable shopping, check out the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets.
Dining
The Strip is a food lover’s paradise, with dining options ranging from celebrity chef restaurants to casual eateries. For a quick bite, you can find everything from gourmet burgers to street tacos.
Where to Stay
Las Vegas offers a wide variety of accommodation options. Here are some top choices:
- The Bellagio – Famous for its elegance and the Fountains.
- The Cosmopolitan – Trendy, with modern rooms and a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Wynn Las Vegas – Luxury at its finest, with world-class dining and beautiful design.
- ARIA Resort & Casino – Known for its contemporary style and tech-forward rooms.
- Treasure Island – More budget-friendly with plenty of entertainment options.
Tips for Visiting The Strip
- Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be very dry, especially in the summer.
- Comfortable Shoes: The Strip is longer than it looks, and you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
- Free Attractions: Many of the hotels offer free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains, Mirage Volcano, and Wynn’s Lake of Dreams.
- Budget for Resort Fees: Most hotels charge a daily resort fee, which typically covers Wi-Fi and pool access. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
- Plan Ahead for Shows: Popular shows can sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance.
Conclusion
The Strip in Las Vegas offers endless entertainment, dining, and adventure for every type of traveler. Whether you’re there to try your luck at the casinos, catch a world-class show, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Enjoy your trip!
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