Las Vegas, Nevada is often on the bucket list for travelers. Sin City, as it’s nicknamed, is renowned around the world for its larger-than-life entertainment. This includes some of the globe’s largest and most extravagant casinos, residencies from top musical artists like Elton John, and athletic spectacles like shows from Cirque de Soleil.
But that doesn’t mean that scheduling a trip to Vegas is easy. It’s thousands of miles from the UK and is also one of the US’s priciest destinations. In other words, while Vegas is on many bucket lists, it might not be an ideal vacation for a few reasons, including the fact that many consider it a boutique or kitschy choice when compared to a place like Miami or NYC.
But we’re here to argue that Las Vegas is worth the long flight and hefty bill. While it has a larger-than-life reputation, it’s all the finer details that will make you fall in love with this desert city. First, let’s explore how you can actually save quite a bit heading to Vegas, and then we’ll dive into some of the lesser-known attractions there.
It Doesn’t Have to Cost an Arm & a Leg
Vegas is incredibly expensive—but, as with any resort town, there are plenty of deals to be found. Let’s take a look at a great example. Fans of casino gaming, from blackjack to baccarat, often head to Las Vegas to compete live at casinos. For many, this means they’re traveling for business more than pleasure, as they take their time at the tables very seriously. Unsurprisingly, online casinos have plenty of great advice from seasoned players about how to save whilst in Vegas, no matter which games they like to play.
Using a few of these tips, you can save big on your trip. First, make sure you book at a hotel where you’re able to waive resort fees. Or, even better, avoid the Strip and stay in downtown Vegas where prices aren’t through the roof. Don’t forget to tip the concierge when asking for any advice or complimentary upgrades.
There’s also plenty of advice for those more stressed out about finding affordable flights than lodgings. Similarly, you may want to focus on dining. Attending buffets is a great way to save, along with snacking at stores rather than in hotels.
There’s Plenty to Do Off the Strip
If you’ve listened to stories from friends who have visited Vegas, then you know one thing to be true: it’s full of strange characters. Many of these strange characters have launched their own shows, museums, and experiences along the Strip—which means you don’t need to pay top dollar to loiter in casinos or watch overpriced shows.
Let’s take another look at examples. Las Vegas is home to one of the US’s most expansive haunted museums, run by a paranormal investigator: Zak Bagans. He has spent years purchasing some of the world’s most haunted items and storing them in his museum, making it a hotbed for fans of the paranormal.
Another unique experience is blackout dining. The idea here is pretty straightforward: treat guests to a delectable dinner, then let them enjoy feeding themselves in the pitch black. Sounds a little strange, right? Welcome to Vegas. There’s no idea too farfetched.
Vegas Is Located in a Stunning Desert
Las Vegas is located in the Nevada Desert, one of the most desolate areas in the US. When you visit this entertainment mecca, you’re also putting yourself within arm’s reach of some of the coolest natural landmarks in the country. This includes the Grand Canyon, which can be accessed easily from the Strip via private tour or a car rental.
Around Vegas, you can also find unique art projects, such as the Seven Magic Mountains piece by Ugo Rondinone. Or, if you’re interested in more of Vegas’s strange offerings, you can head all the way to Area 51. Area 51 is a private government facility where alien life is allegedly housed. Don’t worry—there’s a fantastic Area 51 Museum that you can visit to learn more about this unique stretch of desert.