SD › Las Vegas Travel Guide
Updated: October 26, 2020
By Santorini Dave
The 88 best hotels, restaurants, shops, bars, clubs, shows, tours, places, and things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada.
See Also
- Where to Stay in Las Vegas
- Best Hotels in Las Vegas
- Best Las Vegas Family Hotels
- Best New Hotels in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas Cheap Hotels
- Best Airport Hotels in Las Vegas
- Las Vegas with Kids
- Best Restaurants in Las Vegas
- Best Time to Visit Las Vegas
- Las Vegas Hotel Map
- Best Hotels on Las Vegas Strip
- Las Vegas Map
Las Vegas Hotels
1. Wynn Las Vegas & Encore at Wynn • The Strip • $$$$
These two connected properties offer a perfect mix of luxury, excitement, and amenities. Rooms have a classic feel, but with the latest technology and great views. The revamped sports book is the best on the Strip with massive high-def screens. Every restaurant has vegan options. Between center and north end of the Strip. • Map • (702) 770-7000
2. Venetian & Palazzo • The Strip • $$$$
A modern take on Old World Italy. Twin resorts merge into one large property with a top-tier lineup of restaurants and busy casinos. Take a gondola ride through the Grand Canal Shoppes or visit Madame Tussauds. Prime location in the heart of the Strip and next to the Wynn. The best resort in Vegas that still has free parking. • Map • (702) 414-1000
3. Aria • The Strip • $$$$
CityCenter’s ultra-modern centerpiece. Sleek, futuristic exterior with stylish tech-friendly rooms, including the upscale Sky Suites. Great restaurants and vibrant casino floor. An easy walk to the T-Mobile Arena and other attractions in the central part of the Strip. • Map • (702) 590-7111
4. Four Seasons • The Strip • $$$$
A luxury escape in the Strip’s south end. Quiet and peaceful with a great steakhouse and pool, highly personalized service, and no casino chaos. The hotel lobby connects to the busier attractions of Mandalay Bay. Free shuttle train to the Strip center. Rooms are upscale, but could have more tech and automation. This is where you go to avoid crowds. • Map • (702) 632-5000
5. The Cosmopolitan • The Strip • $$$$
Draws a young crowd with its energy, style, contemporary image, and great cocktail bars. The only high-rise on the Strip with open-air balconies. The casino has a rare open feel with floor-to-ceiling windows that face the Strip. Underground parking garage on-site. Amazing location near the Bellagio, CityCenter, and everything else in the heart of the Strip. • Map • (702) 698-7000
6. Bellagio • The Strip • $$$$
A restrained and refined European style hotel, inspired by coastal Italy. Request a room with views of the fountains out front — an iconic image synonymous with Vegas. The Bellagio lobby is the busiest on the Strip and includes a Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, upscale shops, and a great lineup of restaurants. • Map • (888) 987-6667
7. The Cromwell • The Strip • $$$
The best boutique hotel in Vegas. Just 11 stories tall with fewer than 200 rooms. The casino is small, but has best the terms and conditions on Strip. Home to the first and only full restaurant by Giada de Laurentiis, and a rooftop nightclub and pool deck with jaw-dropping views. On a busy intersection near the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the High Roller wheel. • Map • (702) 777-3777
8. Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas • The Strip • $$$$
Formerly known as the Mandarin Oriental, the Waldorf Astoria offers indulgence, tranquility and boutique-style attention-to-detail that’s possible when there’s less than 400 hotel rooms in the building. With units split between hotel rooms and residencies, the high-rise specializes in privacy, atmosphere and luxury. Modern and sophisticated with incredible views. • Map • (702) 590-8888
9. Red Rock Resort • Summerlin • $$$
The biggest and best hotel in Summerlin has a desert-contemporary style with a horseshoe design that wraps around a gorgeous and spacious pool deck. Lots of restaurants covering all categories. Most rooms have outdoor patios. Free shuttle to Strip and airport. • Map • (702) 797-7777
10. The M Resort • Henderson • $$$
A great, ultra-modern alternative to the Strip hotels. You’re sacrificing location in return for more bang-for-your-buck in room quality. Chic lobby. Sleek pool deck. Just off the I-15 before entering the metropolitan area of Las Vegas, making it ideal for Californians driving north. Drinks on the 16th-floor bar come with awesome Strip views. • Map • (702) 797-1000
11. Park MGM • The Strip • $$$
A new property, completely redesigned and renovated from the old Monte Carlo, with a pastel Art Deco style that’s a nice contrast from the rest of the Strip. Juniper lobby bar has the largest gin collection in Vegas; Park Theater is intimate and high-tech. Located next to the T-Mobile Arena and The Park outdoor promenade. • Map • (702) 730-7777
12. Caesars Palace • The Strip • $$$
An iconic Vegas property with a Roman theme. Sprawling, but full of great restaurants and amenities. The Garden of the Gods pool complex is a big draw for families. Some rooms show their age, others have been dramatically renovated. Lavish bungalows for high rollers. Near the Bellagio, Paris, and The LINQ outdoor promenade. Connects to the Forum Shops at Caesars. • Map • (866) 227-5938
13. JW Marriott • Summerlin • $$$
The big draw here is the lush landscaping; lots of grass, trees, and ponds. (There are even a few small animals roaming the grounds.) Great pool area with a waterfall. Located near a few golf courses, about a 15-minute drive to the Strip. The casino is geared toward locals and not as nice as the rest of the hotel. • Map • (702) 869-7777
14. Green Valley Ranch • Henderson • $$$
Tuscan-inspired resort. The pool is fantastic with a large deck, trees, and even a small vineyard. Rooms have rustic appeal, nice balconies, and lots of breathing room. The charming spa overlooks the pool. A great choice for those who’ve done the Strip a few times and want an alternative. Steps away from the District outdoor shopping plaza, next to the expressway – an easy drive to the Strip or Airport. • Map • (702) 617-7777
15. Golden Nugget • Downtown • $$
Top choice for a Downtown hotel. The Shark Tank water slide is a highlight of the pool area. Sits next to the Fremont Street Experience, an easy walk to the bars and restaurants in the Fremont East district. • Map • (702) 385-7111
16. Paris Las Vegas • The Strip • $$$
A resort modeled after the French capital, including a half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower. Ride to the top and check out one of the best views of Vegas. the casino is busy with go-go dancers and wide-open bars. Chateau nightclub and a few of the restaurants have great views of the Bellagio fountains across the street. Ask about the remodeled rooms – they cost a bit more, but are worth it. • Map • (702) 946-7000
17. Vdara Hotel and Spa • The Strip • $$$
The perfect antidote to the noise and chaos of casino floors, the Vdara is modern, stylish, quiet, and free of both gambling and smoking. It’s also tucked away a bit from the bustle of Las Vegas Boulevard. The Vdara is a sister resort to the Aria and part of the CityCenter complex, although it sits closer in distance to the Cosmopolitan and Bellagio. The lack of restaurants and entertainment is by design to keep crowds to a minimum. • Map • (866) 745-7767
Las Vegas Restaurants
18. Restaurant Guy Savoy • Caesars Palace • $$$$
The only restaurant outside of France by the famed chef Guy Savoy. Deep wine list and incredible tasting menus. Service is on-point with a full team waiting on you. Located in a quiet tower of Caesars Palace with great views of the Strip. • Map • (702) 731-7286
19. Joel Robuchon • MGM Grand • $$$$
Fine French dining inside what feels like a private mansion. Fantastic multi-course meals that last for hours, but are worth every minute. Round dinner out with pastries, wine, and cognac. Next door to sister restaurant L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, which offers a similar experience in a more casual setting and a slightly smaller price tag. • Map • (702) 891-7925
20. é by José Andrés • The Cosmopolitan • $$$$
The most exclusive and inventive dinner on the Strip. Up to nine people sit at a counter for just two seatings a night of molecular gastronomy. Despite the high-level presentation, it’s a fun and social experience with incredibly focused and personalized service included. Go with the wine pairings. • Map • (702) 698-7950
21. Mizumi • Wynn Las Vegas • $$$$
Scenic upscale modern Japanese fusion. One of just a handful of restaurants to carry true certified Kobe beef. The secluded table in center of a pond is perfect for a special date night, but needs to be booked well in advance. • Map • (702) 770-3320
22. Bazaar Meat by José Andrés • SLS Las Vegas • $$$$
An eclectic steakhouse dedicated to all forms of meat. Japanese wagyu, a fire-roasted pig, three types of tartare in a “meat bar” — you name it. Tasting menus are a great indulgence, but require serious endurance. Begin any meal with a stick of cotton candy foie gras. • Map • (702) 761-7610
23. Delmonico Steakhouse • The Venetian • $$$
Creole-seasoned steaks with the biggest and best whiskey list in Vegas. All business and understated decor. Book the private chef’s table for a custom meal that overlooks the kitchen. Just off the casino floor at the Venetian. • Map • (702) 414-3737
24. Estiatorio Milos • The Cosmopolitan • $$$
The best Greek and Mediterranean cuisine on the Strip. Fresh seafood flown in daily is kept on ice in the dining room. Fresh and flavorful tomatoes. Patio overlooks the Strip. • Map • (702) 698-7930
25. Lotus of Siam • Off the Strip • $$$
Small hole-in-the-wall family-owned restaurant that grew into a larger off-Strip location based on nationwide reputation. Thai-focused Asian menu with heavy sauces, vibrant flavors, and large eclectic wine list. • Map • 702-735-3033
26. Sparrow + Wolf • Chinatown • $$$
A variety of Asian and American flavors with meats and vegetables cooked in a woodfired oven – an evolving menu that knows no limits. • Map • (702) 790-2147
27. Carson Kitchen • Downtown • $$
Downtown’s favorite restaurant, and the best place to eat when visiting nearby Fremont Street. Rooftop patio and menu of modified gastropub favorites. • Map • (702) 473-9523
28. Esther’s Kitchen • Downtown Arts District • $$
Farm-to-table Italian, with pasta and bread made in-house. A big hit with the downtown crowd, but they refuse to raise prices – every glass of wine is $5, even the good stuff. The trendiest restaurant in the Arts District south of Fremont Street. • Map • (702) 570-7864
29. Pizza Rock • Downtown • $$
The best pizza in Las Vegas. Award-winning chef Tony Gemignani offers a wide variety of pies made in a wide variety of ovens. The original Downtown location has a late-night to-go window. The second location is a great detour in the Green Valley Ranch casino. • Map • (702) 385-0838
30. The Goodwich • Downtown • $
A simple sandwich reinvented as an art form, with everything from the bread to the pickles made in-house. Downtown just off Las Vegas Blvd, with a second location opening in the southwest valley. • Map • (702) 910-8681
Las Vegas Shopping
31. The Shops at Crystals • The Strip
Bright, open shopping mall that’s all about luxury. More than 50 shops, including flagship stores by Tom Ford, Gucci, Stella McCartney, and Dolce & Gabbana. It’s the most upscale element of CityCenter, and an easy walk from the Cosmopolitan. • Map • (702) 590-9299
32. Wynn Esplanade & Wynn Plaza • Wynn Las Vegas
Upscale brands in an elegant environment. Louis Vuitton, Prada, Saint Laurent, Givenchy. Need help shopping rich? Book your own personal shopper. • Map • (702) 770-3549
33. Bonanza Gift Shop • The Strip
Famous for being the “world’s largest gift shop” and a piece of Vegas history. Full of cheap souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. A convenient spot for a liquor run or to buy some inexpensive pool wear. Near the north end of the Strip. • Map • (702) 385-7359
34. Via Bellagio • Bellagio
Front and center in the Bellagio lobby, it’s luxury brand shopping amid crowds of tourists. Highlights include Omega watches, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker shoes, Tiffany Jewelry, and a partnership between Cirque du Soleil and figure artist Richard McDonald. • Map • (888) 987-6667
35. The Atrium • Palazzo
A department store with counters selling high-end brands like Dior, Mac, and Burberry. The spirits area has occasional tastings and fresh-rolled cigars. • Map • (702) 607-6768
36. Downtown Container Park • Downtown
A unique retail and dining complex built from old shipping containers. The playground at center is great for kids; cocktails at Oak & Ivy and wine at Bin 702 are great for adults. Located just east of the Fremont Street Experience. • Map • (702) 359-9982
37. The Forum Shops at Caesars • The Strip
Sprawling indoor Roman-themed shopping center, complementing Caesars Palace next door. A mixture of familiar brands like Express, restaurants like Joe’s Steak & Seafood, and several art galleries. The free animatronic show, Fall of Atlantis, has a fire-breathing dragon and kitsch appeal. • Map • (702) 893-4800
38. Antique Alley • Downtown Arts District
A loosely associated collection of shops in the Downtown Arts District that’s your best bet for retro furniture, quirky consignment clothing, and kitschy Vegas collectibles. Cowtown Guitars attracts musicians from around the country. ReBar is a bar and antique shop in one. • Map • (702) 684-5177
39. The Grand Canal Shoppes • The Strip
Italian-themed shopping between the Venetian and Palazzo has something for everyone. High-end shops, restaurants, food court, and gondola rides that echo classic Venice. St Mark’s Square is a higher-end plaza with street performers. Includes a shop and bakery by “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro. • Map • (702) 414-4525
40. The LINQ Promenade • The Strip
An outdoor entertainment and retail promenade with restaurants, bars, and tourist-driven shopping. Brooklyn Bowl is a concert venue and bowling alley in one, High Roller observation wheel makes for a good centerpiece with great views, and there’s a new zip line in the works. The LINQ Hotel next door is a decent value on the Strip. • Map • (800) 634-6441
41. Pawn Plaza • Downtown
Shopping plaza that’s grown from the success of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop featured in the “Pawn Stars” reality show. Almost like a mini-container park. Good Pie has some of the best Brooklyn-style pizza in Vegas while Rick’s Rollin Smoke is popular for barbecue. Downtown location, near the Stratosphere and close to where the Strip ends. • Map • (702) 385-7912
42. Grand Bazaar Shops • The Strip
An outdoor shopping plaza in the center of the Strip, geared toward Middle America. Including the only Wahlburgers in Vegas and a twice-nightly light show by Swarovski. • Map • (844) 837-3700
43. M&M’s World • The Strip
Four levels of candy and M&Ms – mix and match your own custom color patterns. The free 3D movie is good break from the action. Located across the street from Hershey World at New York-New York, making this part of the Strip a true mecca for candy lovers and a required stop for those traveling with with kids. • Map • (702) 740-2504
Las Vegas Bars
44. Atomic Liquors • Downtown
The oldest operating bar in downtown Las Vegas. Great cocktails, plenty of vintage decor and history. Used to be a viewing spot for watching atomic bomb testing in the distant desert. Recently added a popular kitchen and food menu. Try the brunch. • Map • (702) 982-3000
45. Rosina • The Palazzo
Dark and secluded with Art Deco design and spacious booths for large parties. Rosina sticks to the classics, but prepares them with incredible expertise. Spirits, liquor, glassware, ice — everything is on point. • Map • (702) 607-1945
46. Frankie’s Tiki Room • Downtown
A dark, vintage tiki bar heavy on rum cocktails. The strength of each drink is reflected by the number of skulls next to the name on the menu. A little out-of-the-way, but close to the Downtown Arts District. • Map • (702) 385-3110
47. The Chandelier • The Cosmopolitan
This bar, decorated with thousands of crystals, passes through three floors of the Cosmopolitan hotel. A great social meeting spot and photo op. • Map • (702) 698-7979
48. The Dorsey • The Venetian
Upscale lounge with inventive cocktails on the Venetian’s casino floor. Lots of brass, oak, and a library with a fireplace. The most stylish place you can have a drink in the middle of the Strip. • Map • (702) 414-1945
49. Downtown Cocktail Room • Downtown
Innovative cocktail menu that changes seasonally. Great absinthe selection. In an inconspicuous spot just around the corner from Fremont Street, a longtime favorite of locals in the downtown area. • Map • (702) 880-3696
50. Herbs & Rye • Off the Strip
Masters of the craft; the place where all the other bartenders go on their own time. Unique spirits and a menu of cocktails that covers different eras — Gothic, Prohibition, Tiki, etc. The food isn’t bad either. Happy hour and reverse happy hour with half-price steaks. A short drive west of the Strip. • Map • (702) 982-8036
51. Skyfall Lounge • Delano
Stylish lounge with open-air patio, craft cocktails, and amazing views. Soak in the neon glow of Vegas from the 64th floor of the Delano resort. Punch bowls are great for large groups. • Map • (702) 632-7575
52. Oak & Ivy • Downtown
The flagship cocktail bar in the Downtown Container Park. The space is small with just a few seats, but that’s what you get when the bar is made from an old shipping container. Extra seating on the patio and roof. Great whiskey list. Nine versions of a Moscow Mule, with ginger beer made in-house. • Map • (702) 553-2549
53. Velveteen Rabbit • Downtown
Hipster hangout without any pretension. Revolving craft cocktail menu. Decorated in random vintage furniture. A favorite of the Downtown Arts District. • Map • (702) 685-9642
54. Tenaya Creek Brewery • Downtown
Great brewery with a social clubhouse vibe. Beer is smooth and well-balanced, not too hoppy. Found on a remote street in Downtown near the expressway, but feels almost miles away from Vegas. There’s usually at least one food truck in the parking lot. • Map • (702) 362-7335
55. Dino’s Lounge • Downtown
Wonderful old-Vegas dive bar and the best karaoke place in Las Vegas. Don’t go until after 10pm. Not much within an easy walk, so plan on driving or taking a taxi/Uber to get here. • Map • (702) 382-3894
56. Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails • Downtown
The venue is an old school gentlemen’s barbershop near the casino lobby of the Cosmopolitan. But after 5pm, the door marked “janitor” in the back opens to reveal a full bar and concert stage. Excellent whiskey selection and classic cocktails. • Map • (702) 632-4700
Las Vegas Nightclubs
57. Omnia • Caesars Palace
The hottest nightclub on the Strip. Big-name DJs, including Calvin Harris and Zedd. A massive chandelier hangs above the dancefloor, and the outdoor patio overlooks the Strip. • Map • (702) 785-6200
58. XS • Wynn Encore
Possibly the most lavish – and crowded – club in Vegas. Decorated in gold and other chic furnishings, XS has a busy dancefloor, featuring top resident acts like the Chainsmokers, and an expansive pool deck to catch a break from the action. Centrally located at Wynn Encore. • Map • (702) 770-0097
59. Hakkasan • MGM Grand
Multi-level club in the MGM Grand with Tiesto, Steve Aoki, and other top DJs. Large VIP booths. Nextdoor to sister Hakkasan Restaurant, which has great Cantonese cuisine, cocktails, and mezcal. • Map • (702) 891-3838
60. Drai’s • The Cromwell
Incredible views from the 11th floor rooftop of the Cromwell in the heart of the Strip. Check out the neon lights in between sets from top hip-hop, R&B, and EDM acts. • Map • (702) 777-3800
61. Jewel • Aria
Downstairs club is tight and intimate, but full of energy. Lots of high-tech features. Five VIP suites overlook the dancefloor, each with its own theme. • Map • (702) 590-8000
62. Intrigue • Wynn Las Vegas
Sister club to XS at the Wynn, but more intimate and less hectic. Gorgeous pond and waterfall. Private VIP lounge space is called the Living Room and looks like one – full of vintage decor. • Map • (702) 770-7300
63. Kaos • Palms Casino Resort
Kaos is the hottest nightclub in Las Vegas right now with the best headlining acts. Indoor and outdoor spaces blend together effortlessly with an expansive pool deck that includes a 65-foot-tall bronze sculpture of a headless man by artist Damien Hirst. DJs perform on a stage that revolves 360 degrees between the nightclub and pool deck. • Map • (702) 329-6200
64. Chateau • Paris Las Vegas
Chateau is a tale of two nightclubs. It has a dark and somewhat routine indoor space, but the outdoor deck on the second floor is spectacular. Located underneath the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas, partygoers can look directly across the street at the Bellagio fountains while soaking in the neon glow of The Strip. • Map • (702) 776-7777
Las Vegas Shows
65. David Copperfield • MGM Grand
The world’s most famous illusionist performs classic tricks with plenty of humor. The stage is surprisingly understated, set for a fun night with one of the best in the business. • Map • (702) 891-7777
66. KÀ • MGM Grand
Ambitious Cirque du Soleil production with an Asian theme and levitating stage. Has more of a plot than most Cirque shows but like all of them, it’s best to just relax and focus on the stunts and incredible costumes. On the south end of the Strip at the MGM Grand. • Map • (702) 531-3826
67. Absinthe • Caesars Palace
Not for the faint of heart. A raunchy and naughty show that’s staged like a rowdy dinner party in a big-top outside Caesars Palace. Lots of fun with acrobatic stunts. • Map • (855) 234-7469
68. Le Reve • Wynn Las Vegas
Often mistaken for a Cirque production, this water-focused show at the Wynn features divers, swimmers, and dancers performing on a revolving stage and pool. map • Map • (702) 770-9966
69. Penn & Teller • Rio
Comedy and magic rolled up in one. One of the longest-running shows in Vegas, and one that’s designed into make you think. Card tricks, stunts, and a dose of libertarian politics. • Map • (702) 777-2782
70. The Beatles LOVE • The Mirage
How to make a Cirque show even better? Throw in music from the Beatles. This long-running show at the Mirage features remixed music from the Fab Four, a booming sound-system, and 60s-era psychedelic scenery. • Map • (702) 792-7777
71. Carrot Top • The Luxor
Orange-haired prop comic brings the laughs in an intimate theater inside the Luxor. Legit laughs. Everyone says the same thing: “That show was a lot better than I thought it would be.” • Map • (702) 262-4400
Things to Do in Las Vegas
72. Pink Jeep Tours • Off the Strip
Explore the nature that surrounds Vegas in comfy custom vehicles. Grand Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam, Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon, and more. Tour guides are older and experienced — they know their stuff. • Map • (800) 873-3662
73. Fremont Street Experience • Downtown
Five blocks of downtown Vegas is now closed to traffic and converted to a pedestrian mall. Surrounded by classic neon marquees, bars, restaurants, casinos, and souvenir shops. Street performers can be a nuisance. Watch video shows in the world’s largest LED display in the overhead canopy. • Map • (702) 678-5600
74. High Roller Observation Wheel • The LINQ
A great way to see the entire valley, and the centerpiece of The Strip’s LINQ outdoor promenade. Spend at least 30 minutes on a barely noticeable slow rotation, 550 feet at peak height. You don’t sit, you stand. Cabins are large enough to add a bartender or book a yoga session. • Map • (800) 634-6441
75. Mob Museum • Downtown
Learn about the mob and the long criminal history of not just Vegas, but the entire country. Top exhibits are dedicated to wiretapping, casino crime, and Prohibition. A speakeasy and distillery operate in the basement. Set in the renovated Downtown courthouse where these mobsters were once prosecuted. • Map • (702) 229-2734
76. Speedvegas • South of the Strip
Race exotic cars around a rack track more than a mile long and full of sharp turns. Choose from a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or a number of other hot rides. On Las Vegas Boulevard far south of the Strip. • Map • (702) 789-0568
77. Lip Smacking Foodie Tours • The Strip & Downtown
A walking foodie tour that doesn’t cut corners. (No retail stops here.) Visit top restaurants and sample signature dishes. A great choice for dinner if you’re only in Vegas for one night. • (702) 888-681-4388
78. Neon Museum • Downtown
Vintage signs and marquees on display in an outdoor “graveyard” environment. An awesome slice of Vegas history. The new show, Brilliant, brings unplugged signs back to life with light projections and video — and is definitely worth a ticket. Temperatures are much cooler during night tours. • Map • (702) 387-6366
79. Lion Habitat Ranch • Henderson
A sanctuary to lions and other exotic animals, including some that used to be part of shows and exhibits on the Strip. However, the big draw is Ozzie, a giraffe that paints with a brush in his mouth. • Map • (702) 595-6666
80. Pioneer Saloon • Goodsprings
The oldest bar in Southern Nevada is a tribute to the Wild West. Take part in a ghost tour, late-night stargazing, or buy your own whiskey barrel. Barbecue burgers are legendary. Southwest of Las Vegas near the California border. • Map • (702) 290-8325
81. Vegas Golden Knights • The Strip
The newest NHL expansion team has full support of Las Vegas after reaching the Stanley Cup finals in debut season. Home games at T-Mobile Arena are noisy and fun. Food and drinks are just outside at The Park outdoor promenade. • Map • (702) 692-1600
82. The Stratosphere • The Strip
The rooms, restaurants, and shops are okay, but there’s nothing like taking an elevator to the top of the Stratosphere tower. At 1,149 feet high, it’s the tallest structure in Vegas. Grab a drink at the bar, step outside to the windy deck, and freak out on one of several rooftop thrill rides. • Map • (702) 380-7777
Las Vegas Neighborhoods
83. The Strip
A four-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard and the main tourist corridor of the city. Its iconic colorful skyline is packed with shopping, restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, and resorts — often with an upscale feel. Beware of hidden fees, from new and expanding parking charges to the notorious “resort fees” that don’t appear on initial hotel prices. Walkable, but exhausting if you don’t pace yourself, especially in the summer.
Best Stuff: The Bellagio’s outdoor fountain shows and floral-filled conservatory • the amazing views from the High Roller, the tallest observation wheel in the world • a chance to visit several top restaurants in one night with Lip Smacking Foodie Tours • The Beatles LOVE (a Cirque du Soleil production featuring Beatles music) • Omnia (a hot nightclub with an outdoor patio) • The Shops at Crystals (upscale luxury shopping mall) • The killer lineup of restaurants at The Venetian, Wynn, Cosmopolitan, and Caesars Palace84. Downtown
The official “City of Las Vegas,” which celebrates vintage Sin City culture and is enjoying an economic resurgence. A mix of tourists and hipsters (and government officials looking for the next hot lunch destination). North of the Strip and best known for Fremont Street, a popular stretch of road that defines “Old Vegas” style.
Best Stuff: the Fremont Street Experience (a pedestrian mall that’s closed to traffic and features LED canopy shows) • Fremont East (bars, restaurants, and the Downtown Container Park) • the Arts District (hippest area of Las Vegas with Esther’s Kitchen and other hot hangouts) • Neon Museum (outdoor collection of vintage Vegas signs and marquees)85. Henderson
A family-oriented suburban area southeast of Las Vegas and the second-largest city in Nevada. Known for its extensive parks and trails. A good alternative for those seeking hotels away from the chaos of the Strip.
Best Stuff: Green Valley Ranch (casino and resort with scenic pool deck and Pizza Rock) • The M Resort (including views and drinks from the 16th floor) • Lion Habitat Ranch (sanctuary for lions and a giraffe) • Popular local breweries (Bad Beat, Crafthaus, Lovelady, and Joseph James) • Water Street (charming downtown district) • Lake Las Vegas (scenic lake surrounded by hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants).86. Summerlin
Master-planned community that’s the dominant presence in the West Valley. A combination of luxury homes, shopping, and sports. Framed by Red Rock Canyon, Mt. Charleston, and the Spring Mountains. Gorgeous desert scenery.
Best Stuff: City National Arena (practice facility for the Vegas Golden Knights, open to public ice skating) • Red Rock Resort (large contemporary resort and casino with great collection of restaurants) • Downtown Summerlin (outdoor mall with food and shopping) • Tivoli Village (outdoor retail plaza with distinctive Old World architecture)87. Chinatown
Underrated and overlooked conglomeration of Asian culture — with other global elements thrown in to make things even more interesting. Just west of the Strip, centered around Spring Mountain Road. An easy detour for tourists. Amazing collection of restaurants.
Best Stuff: Raku (Asian cuisine known for robata grilled meats) • Chinatown Plaza (the “gates” of Chinatown, with a market and small restaurants) • Golden Tiki (fun and mysterious Tiki bar) • Sparrow + Wolf (inventive restaurant that mixes styles and culture) • Leatherneck Club (marine bar celebrating America’s veterans) • Kabuto (intimate no-frills Japanese spot where sushi is treated as an art form)88. Boulder City
City southeast of the Las Vegas Valley that emerged from the construction of the Hoover Dam. A charming residential area with parks and vintage single-story ranch homes, close to Lake Mead and outdoor activities. Its gambling ban is a welcome relief to those who avoid casino culture.
Best Stuff: Hoover Dam • Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon (outdoor zipline park) • The Flying Saucer (Area 52-themed gift and snack shop) • Rail Explorers (foot-pedal vehicles on train tracks) • Boulder Dam Hotel (historic hotel with free lobby museum dedicated to Hoover Dam history)
Map of Las Vegas Strip
Map of Las Vegas Downtown
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