Las Vegas First Timer Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Visit (2025)

Welcome to Las Vegas: What First-Timers Need to Know

Your Essential First-Timer Checklist

3-Day Sample Itinerary at a Glance

Common First-Timer Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Where to Stay: Strip Location Guide for First-Timers

Essential Apps & Resources for First-Timers

Realistic Budget Breakdown for First-Timers

When to Visit Las Vegas: Timing Your First Trip

Best Times for First-Time Visitors

Times to Avoid (Especially for First-Timers)

How Long to Stay

Minimum recommended: 3 full days (4 nights total)

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in, explore your hotel and immediate area
• Day 2: Full day exploring the Strip
• Day 3: Shows, attractions, downtown or off-Strip exploration
• Day 4: Morning activities, afternoon departure

Sweet spot for first-timers: 4-5 days

• Enough time to see major attractions without rushing
• Allows for one day trip (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Red Rock)
• Time to recover from jet lag and late nights
• Can explore beyond just the main tourist areas

Too short: 1-2 days feels rushed, especially with travel time

Too long: 7+ days for first-timers—Vegas energy is exhausting, you'll burn out

Where to Stay: First-Timer's Hotel Guide

The Three Vegas Neighborhoods Explained

Best First-Timer Hotels by Budget

First-Timer Hotel Selection Strategy

Step 1: Determine your location priority

• Center Strip = More expensive but saves on transportation
• South/North Strip = Cheaper but more walking/Uber rides

Step 2: Calculate TOTAL cost

• Room rate × number of nights
• + Resort fees ($20-45/night)
• + Parking if driving ($15-30/night)
• + Taxes (12-14%)

Example: $100/night room = $147/night actual cost ($100 + $30 resort fee + $17 tax)

Step 3: Check recent reviews

• Vegas hotels change quickly—read reviews from last 3 months
• Filter by "couples" or "friends" to match your trip type
• Look for mentions of cleanliness, noise, and nickel-and-diming

Getting to Vegas: Airport to Hotel Transportation

From McCarran Airport to the Strip

The airport is surprisingly close to the Strip—only 3-5 miles depending on your hotel. Don't waste money on luxury transportation for a 10-minute ride.

Uber/Lyft (Best Option for Most)

• Cost: $15-25 to most Strip hotels
• Time: 10-20 minutes depending on traffic
• Pickup: Level 2 (Departures) in designated rideshare area
• Pro tip: Split with travel companions for best value

Taxi

• Cost: $20-30 to Strip including tip
• Time: Similar to rideshare
• Pickup: Taxi stands outside baggage claim
• Note: Usually no cheaper than Uber, no price transparency

Hotel Shuttle

• Cost: $10-20 per person
• Time: 30-60 minutes (multiple stops)
• Who offers: Some off-Strip and budget hotels
• Verdict: Slow and not much cheaper than rideshare

Public Bus

• Cost: $6 for 2-hour pass
• Time: 30-45 minutes
• Routes: Bus 108/109 to downtown, connect to Strip buses
• Verdict: Only if seriously budget-constrained

Rental Car (Only If Needed)

• Cost: $30-70/day + $15-30/day hotel parking
• Worth it if: Planning day trips (Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon)
• Not worth it if: Staying only on Strip—parking fees and hassle aren't worth it

Airport Tips for First-Timers

• Baggage claim is SLOW: Vegas airport processes 50+ million passengers yearly, expect 20-30 minute wait
• Avoid airport vendors: Show tickets, tours, timeshares—all overpriced or scams
• Get cash at hotel: Airport ATMs have higher fees than casino ATMs
• Rideshare vs. taxi: Both take same routes, ignore taxi drivers claiming rideshare takes longer

How Much Money Do You Actually Need?

Real Vegas Budget Breakdown (Per Person, Per Day)

Hidden Costs First-Timers Forget

• Resort fees: $20-45/night (not included in quoted room rate)
• Tipping: $30-60/day (bartenders, servers, valets, housekeeping, bellhops)
• Show tickets: $75-250 per person (good shows aren't cheap)
• Nightclub cover charges: $30-75 for men, often free for women
• Convenience items: $8 bottle of water from minibar, $15 hotel market snacks
• Photo opportunities: "Free" photos with performers expect $10-20 tip

Money-Saving Strategies for First-Timers

• Eat one big meal, supplement with snacks: Vegas portions are huge
• Take advantage of happy hours: 4-7 PM specials save 50% on food and drinks
• Walk instead of Uber when possible: Yes, it's far, but it's free
• Gamble during free drink times: Cocktail service at penny slots
• Book shows in advance online: Save 20-40% vs. box office prices
• Visit attractions in the morning: Fewer crowds, sometimes cheaper admission

Must-See Free Attractions for First-Timers

The Free Vegas Bucket List

Bellagio Fountains (Must-See #1)

• What it is: Choreographed water show with music and lights
• Schedule: Every 30 minutes (3 PM-8 PM), every 15 minutes (8 PM-midnight)
• Best viewing spot: Center sidewalk along Strip, or Bellagio terrace
• Why it matters: Icon of Vegas, never gets old, perfect photo opportunity
• Pro tip: Watch at least twice—once during day, once at night

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

• What it is: Massive indoor garden changed seasonally
• Cost: Free
• Time needed: 30-45 minutes
• Instagram factor: Extremely high—elaborate displays
• When to visit: Anytime, but mornings have fewer crowds

Fremont Street Experience (Must-See #2)

• What it is: Covered pedestrian mall with LED canopy light shows
• Shows: Every hour starting at dusk
• Atmosphere: Party zone with street performers, bars, live music
• Transportation: $15-20 Uber from Strip or downtown bus
• Time to allocate: 2-3 hours minimum

Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes

• What it is: Indoor Venice replica with canals and gondolas
• Free parts: Walking around, watching gondolas, street performers
• Paid option: Gondola rides ($29 per person)
• Best time: Evening when street performers are most active

Mirage Volcano

• What it is: Fire and music show in front of Mirage
• Schedule: Nightly at 8 PM, 9 PM, 10 PM (weather permitting)
• Duration: 5-7 minutes
• Best viewing: Sidewalk directly in front, arrive 15 minutes early

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

• What it is: Outdoor habitat with flamingos, swans, koi fish, turtles
• Cost: Free
• Location: Behind Flamingo casino
• Why visit: Unexpected tranquility in middle of chaos

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

• Location: South end of Strip (south of Mandalay Bay)
• Cost: Free
• Challenge: Often 30+ minute wait for photo
• Best time: Sunrise for no crowds and golden light
• Transportation: Too far to walk, $10 Uber from south Strip

Free Entertainment by Day of Week

• Daily: Bellagio fountains, Mirage volcano, conservatories, people watching
• Weekends: Fremont Street live bands, street performers everywhere
• First Friday: Arts District festival (monthly, if your visit aligns)
• Seasonal: Holiday displays at major hotels (Bellagio, Venetian, Wynn)

Perfect 3-Day First-Timer Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

Morning/Early Afternoon: Arrival

• Land at McCarran, Uber to hotel
• Check-in (remember the $20 trick for potential upgrade)
• Unpack, settle in, charge devices
• Lunch: Hotel food court or casual restaurant ($15-25)

Afternoon: Explore Your Hotel

• Walk entire property—Vegas hotels are massive
• Locate casino, restaurants, pools, shops, show venues
• Sign up for player's club card (free drinks while gambling)
• Check show ticket prices at box office
• Time needed: 1-2 hours

Late Afternoon: First Strip Walk

• Walk to 2-3 neighboring hotels
• Get feel for distances (farther than you think)
• Watch Bellagio fountains show
• Distance: 1-2 miles of walking

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

• Dinner: Nice restaurant in your hotel or nearby ($40-80 per person)
• Option A: See a show (book in advance)
• Option B: Explore Fremont Street downtown
• Option C: Walk the Strip at night (the real Vegas emerges)

Night: Casino Experience

• Try your hand at table games or slots (stick to your budget)
• Order drinks while playing (tip $1-2 per drink)
• People watch—Vegas at night is a show itself
• Budget: $20-50 gambling, $10-20 drinks

Day 2: Full Strip Experience

Morning: Start Fresh

• Breakfast: Hotel cafe or room service ($15-30)
• Head out by 10 AM to beat heat and crowds
• Walk to Bellagio Conservatory (10-11 AM)
• Explore Forum Shops at Caesars (11 AM-12 PM)

Midday: North Strip Adventure

• Lunch: Venetian food court or Grand Lux Cafe ($20-35)
• Explore Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes (1-2 PM)
• Walk through Wynn gardens and atrium (2-3 PM)
• Rest stop: Coffee break, casino air conditioning

Afternoon: Return to Hotel

• Uber back to hotel if tired (you will be)
• Pool time or nap (3-5 PM)
• Shower, change for evening

Evening: Sunset and Shows

• Happy hour: 5-7 PM at Mon Ami Gabi or similar ($30-50 per person)
• Watch sunset over mountains from Strip
• Attend evening show (Cirque, magic, comedy) ($75-200)

Night: Strip Nightlife

• Walk to south Strip (Luxor, Mandalay Bay, MGM)
• Late dinner or dessert ($25-50)
• Watch Bellagio fountains again (different music)
• Nightclub if interested (cover $30-75 for men)

Day 3: Downtown and Hidden Gems

Morning: Sleep In

• Vegas nights are late—sleep until 9-10 AM
• Brunch: Hash House A Go Go or similar ($25-40)
• Relax by pool (10 AM-12 PM)

Afternoon: Fremont Street

• Uber to downtown ($15-20)
• Walk Fremont Street Experience (1-3 PM)
• Visit Golden Nugget shark tank
• Lunch/Snack: Downtown prices cheaper than Strip ($15-25)
• Fremont Street zipline if adventurous ($20-40)

Late Afternoon: Return to Strip

• Uber back to hotel
• Last-minute shopping or attractions you missed
• Final pool session or spa time

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• Dinner: Splurge on memorable restaurant ($75-150 per person)
• Recommendations: Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen, Eiffel Tower Restaurant, Lago at Bellagio
• Walk Strip one final time
• Take in lights, energy, absurdity of it all

Night: Last Vegas Hurrah

• Catch show you missed or return to favorite spot
• Final gambling session with leftover budget
• Late-night food—Vegas specialty ($15-30)
• Pack for morning departure

Common First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid

The Big Mistakes Everyone Makes

Underestimating Distances

The mistake: "Let's just walk to the Venetian, it looks close on the map."

The reality: Properties are enormous. What looks like a 5-minute walk is 20+ minutes. In summer heat, it's miserable.

The solution: Use Google Maps walking directions. If it says 15+ minutes, consider Uber. Stay at center Strip hotels to minimize walking.

Not Budgeting for Hidden Costs

The mistake: Booking $75/night room and thinking that's your hotel cost.

The reality: $75 + $35 resort fee + $10 tax + $20 parking = $140 actual cost per night.

The solution: Always calculate total cost including resort fees, taxes, parking before booking.

Overdoing It the First Night

The mistake: Arriving at 3 PM, hitting bars immediately, partying until 4 AM.

The reality: You're exhausted, possibly hungover, and waste Day 2 recovering.

The solution: Pace yourself. First night is reconnaissance. Save big nights for when you're adjusted.

Not Drinking Enough Water

The mistake: Drinking alcohol in desert heat without water.

The reality: Dehydration plus altitude (2,000 ft) hits HARD. Hangovers are worse, fatigue is real.

The solution: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water. Carry water bottle. Drink before bed.

Wearing Wrong Shoes

The mistake: Women wear heels all day, men wear brand-new dress shoes.

The reality: You'll walk 20,000+ steps per day on hard casino floors. Blisters end your fun fast.

The solution: Comfortable walking shoes during day. Save dressy shoes for shows and dinner only.

Playing Games You Don't Understand

The mistake: Sitting at $25 blackjack table without knowing basic strategy.

The reality: Losing money fast because you're making terrible decisions.

The solution: Learn basic strategy beforehand or stick to slots. Start at $5-10 tables downtown.

Not Making Show Reservations

The mistake: "We'll just buy tickets when we get there."

The reality: Popular shows sell out, especially weekends. Box office prices are highest.

The solution: Book shows 1-2 weeks in advance online for better prices and selection.

Trying to See Everything

The mistake: Packing schedule with 15 attractions per day.

The reality: Vegas is exhausting. Rushing creates stress, ruins experiences.

The solution: Pick 3-4 priorities per day. Build in rest time. Quality over quantity.

Eating at Tourist Traps

The mistake: Every meal at casino restaurants and Strip locations.

The reality: Overpaying for mediocre food when amazing options exist nearby.

The solution: Mix in off-Strip meals. Use happy hours. Ask locals for recommendations.

Renting Car for Strip-Only Trip

The mistake: Renting car for convenience.

The reality: $20-30/day parking fees + hassle isn't worth it for Strip stays.

The solution: Skip car unless doing day trips. Uber is cheaper and easier.

Getting Around Vegas: Transportation Guide

Walking the Strip

The honest truth: Walking the entire Strip (south to north) is 4.2 miles and takes 90+ minutes of continuous walking. Add hotel interior exploration and you're looking at 3-4 hours minimum.

Walking Tips

• Morning walks: Start by 9 AM in summer to avoid peak heat
• Use bridges and tunnels: Safer and faster than crossing at street level
• Walk inside when possible: Air-conditioned paths through casinos save energy
• Comfortable shoes mandatory: This cannot be overstated
• Hydration: Carry water bottle, refill at bars and restaurants

Uber and Lyft

Best use cases:

• South Strip to North Strip ($12-18)
• Strip to Downtown ($15-22)
• Late night when tired ($8-15 short rides)
• Summer heat makes walking unbearable

Pickup tips:

• Hotels have designated rideshare pickup zones (ask bellman)
• Be precise with location pin—Vegas properties are huge
• Weekend surge pricing can double costs

Public Transportation

The Deuce (Double-Decker Bus)

• Route: Entire Strip plus downtown
• Cost: $6 for 2 hours, $8 for 24 hours, $20 for 3 days
• Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
• Best for: Budget travelers, full Strip tours
• Downside: Slow with all the stops

SDX (Strip & Downtown Express)

• Route: Limited stops along Strip and downtown
• Cost: Same as Deuce
• Advantage: Faster than Deuce

Monorail

• Route: East side of Strip only (MGM Grand to Sahara)
• Cost: $5 single ride, $13 day pass, $28 three-day pass
• Limitation: Doesn't reach many major hotels (Bellagio, Caesars, Venetian)
• Best for: Getting to convention center or specific monorail hotels

Hotel Trams (Free!)

• Bellagio-ARIA-Park MGM: Free tram connecting these properties
• Mandalay Bay-Luxor-Excalibur: Free tram connecting south Strip
• Mirage-Treasure Island: Free tram (when operational)

First-Timer Transportation Strategy

1. Choose center Strip hotel: Minimize transportation needs
2. Walk when reasonable: 10-15 minutes or less
3. Uber for longer trips: Downtown, far Strip ends, when exhausted
4. Budget $15-30/day for transportation: Mix of walking and occasional rides

Casino Basics for First-Timers

Casino Etiquette 101

General Rules

• You must be 21+: ID checks are frequent and strict
• Don't touch chips after betting: At table games, hands off once bet is placed
• Use hand signals: Pit bosses watch cameras, verbal calls don't count
• One hand only at slot machines: Don't camp multiple machines
• Tip dealers and cocktail servers: $1-5 per winning hand, $1-2 per drink

Table Games Etiquette

• Buy in during breaks: Don't interrupt hands in progress
• Use casino chips for bets: Don't put cash directly on table
• Ask before joining: "Is this seat taken?" at blackjack tables
• Don't give other players advice: Unless asked (people get superstitious)

Player's Club Cards (Essential)

Why You Need One

• Free to join at every casino
• Earns points for every dollar gambled
• Points = free play, food credits, show tickets, hotel rooms
• Required for free drinks at some casinos
• Gets you on mailing lists for future promotions

How to Use

• Sign up at player's club desk (bring ID)
• Insert card in slot machines before playing
• Present card to pit boss at table games
• Card tracks all your play automatically

Best Beginner Casino Games

Blackjack

• Minimum bet: $5-15 downtown, $15-25 on Strip
• House edge: ~0.5% with basic strategy
• Why it's good: Social, strategy matters, decent odds
• Learn first: Basic strategy cards allowed at table

Roulette

• Minimum bet: $10-25
• House edge: 5.26% (American roulette)
• Why it's good: Easy to understand, no strategy needed
• Tip: Stick to outside bets (red/black, odd/even) for better odds

Slot Machines

• Minimum bet: $0.01 to $5 per spin
• House edge: 2-15% depending on machine
• Why it's good: No skill required, play at your pace
• Reality check: Worst odds in casino but most popular

Craps

• Minimum bet: $5-15 downtown, $15-25 Strip
• House edge: 1.4% on pass line
• Why it's intimidating: Complicated, loud, fast-paced
• Why it's worth learning: Best odds, most fun, most social

Gambling Budget Strategy

• Set firm daily limit: $50, $100, $200—whatever you can afford to lose
• Bring only that amount: Leave cards in hotel safe
• Never chase losses: When daily budget is gone, walk away
• Treat it as entertainment cost: Like paying for a show, not "making money"

Shows and Entertainment for First-Timers

Must-See Show Categories

Cirque du Soleil (Vegas Staple)

• "O" at Bellagio: Water-based acrobatics, most iconic ($99-299)
• Mystère at Treasure Island: Original Vegas Cirque, best value ($69-169)
• Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay: Music and acrobatics ($69-199)
• Booking tip: Avoid front rows at "O" (you get wet)

Magic Shows

• David Copperfield at MGM: Traditional grand illusions ($79-239)
• Mat Franco at Linq: AGT winner, comedy magic ($59-129)
• Shin Lim at Mirage: Close-up card magic, intimate ($69-149)

Comedy Shows

• Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club at Linq: Rotating comedians ($29-79)
• Brad Garrett's Comedy Club at MGM: Big-name comics ($49-99)
• Various headliners: Check schedules for touring comedians

Adult Shows (21+)

• Fantasy at Luxor: Topless dance revue, most popular ($49-99)
• Thunder From Down Under at Excalibur: Male revue ($49-89)
• Magic Mike Live at Hard Rock: Channing Tatum production ($59-159)

Show Booking Strategy

• Book 1-2 weeks ahead online: Save 20-40% vs. box office
• Check Groupon and Tix4Tonight: Last-minute discount tickets
• Avoid "free show" timeshare pitches: Not worth the 2-hour sales presentation
• Splurge on one great show: Better than several mediocre ones
• Weeknight shows cheaper: Weekend prices increase 30-50%

Beyond Traditional Shows

• Pool parties: Day clubs at Encore, MGM, Cosmopolitan (free-$75)
• Nightclubs: XS, Omnia, Hakkasan ($30-75 cover for men, often free for women)
• Concerts: Major residencies and touring acts ($75-500+)
• Sports: Golden Knights hockey, Raiders football, WNBA Aces basketball

Dining Tips for First-Time Visitors

Vegas Dining Reality

Vegas has evolved from cheap buffets to world-class dining. You can eat at Michelin-starred restaurants or $5 food courts—choices range from bargain to obscene.

Budget Dining Champions

Best Cheap Eats on Strip

• Earl of Sandwich (Planet Hollywood): Best sandwiches, $8-12
• Shake Shack (New York-New York): Burgers and shakes, $12-18
• Secret Pizza (Cosmopolitan): Hidden pizza spot, $5-8 per slice
• Food courts: Miracle Mile, Linq Promenade, most hotels have them

Best Off-Strip Budget Meals

• In-N-Out Burger: California cult favorite, $8-12
• Tacos El Gordo: Authentic street tacos, $2-3 each
• Ellis Island $7.77 Steak Special: 10oz steak dinner, player's club required

Mid-Range Dining Recommendations

• Mon Ami Gabi (Paris): French bistro with Strip view, $30-50
• Hash House A Go Go (Linq): Massive portions, $20-35
• Gordon Ramsay Burger (Planet Hollywood): Gourmet burgers, $20-30
• Yardbird (Venetian): Southern comfort food, $25-45

Splurge-Worthy Dining

• Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen (Caesars): TV show replica, $75-125
• Eiffel Tower Restaurant (Paris): View + French cuisine, $100-150
• Bazaar Meat (Sahara): José Andrés steakhouse, $100-175
• SW Steakhouse (Wynn): Lakeside dining, premium steaks, $125-200

Dining Money-Saving Tips

• Happy hours are your friend: 4-7 PM, half-price apps and drinks
• Split entrees: Vegas portions are enormous
• Eat one big meal per day: Supplement with snacks and light bites
• Breakfast in your hotel room: Bring granola bars, fruit
• Download casino apps: Often have food discounts for members

Safety Tips and What to Avoid

Vegas is Generally Safe, But...

The Strip and tourist areas are heavily policed and generally safe. However, basic precautions apply.

Personal Safety

• Don't flash cash: Keep wallet secured, don't count large bills in public
• Watch your drinks: Never leave drinks unattended
• Stick to main areas at night: Avoid blocks away from Strip and downtown core
• Use official taxis/rideshares: Don't accept rides from random people
• Hotel room safes: Use them for valuables, cash, extra credit cards

Scams to Avoid

CD Handers: People giving "free" CDs expect $10-20 tip, can get aggressive

Street performers: Photo costs $10-20, they won't mention until after

Club promoters: "Free" entry often means expensive drink minimums

Timeshare pitches: "Free" show tickets cost 90-120 minutes of high-pressure sales

Three-card monte: Street gambling game—always a scam, you cannot win

Taxi long-hauling: Take I-15 from airport, not surface streets (unless backed up)

Prostitution Warning

It's illegal in Clark County (Las Vegas): Despite popular belief. Street prostitution and escort services operate illegally. Cards handed out on Strip are for escorts (illegal prostitution). Engaging can result in arrest, robbery, or worse. Legal brothels exist in Nevada but not in Las Vegas.

Heat and Hydration

Summer Heat is Dangerous

• June-August temperatures: Regularly 105-115°F
• Heat exhaustion is real: Dizziness, nausea, confusion—seek A/C immediately
• Hydration requirements: Double your normal water intake
• Alcohol dehydrates: One water for every alcoholic drink minimum

Heat Survival Tips

• Carry water bottle everywhere
• Walk indoors through casinos when possible
• Morning activities before 11 AM
• Midday break in air conditioning
• Evening activities after 6 PM
• Sunscreen is non-negotiable

What to Pack for Your Vegas Trip

Essential Items

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes: Most important item—broken-in sneakers or walking shoes
• One dressy outfit: Nice dinner or nightclub entry
• Casual daywear: Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses
• Light jacket: Casinos run cold A/C, winter nights get chilly
• Swimwear: Hotel pools, day clubs, party pools
• Sunglasses and hat: Essential for daytime

Personal Items

• Valid ID: Required everywhere—passport or driver's license
• Credit cards: Better exchange rates than cash
• Phone charger + portable battery: You'll use phone constantly
• Medications: Bring extra, drugstores are expensive
• Sunscreen and lip balm: Desert sun is harsh
• Basic first aid: Band-aids for blisters, pain reliever

Money Items

• Small bills for tipping: Lots of $1 and $5 bills
• Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees: If international visitor
• Backup credit card: Keep separate from main wallet

What NOT to Pack

• Excessive clothing: You'll wear less than you think
• Large suitcases: Baggage fees add up
• Expensive jewelry: Unnecessary risk
• Weapons of any kind: Hotels scan bags, illegal in casinos

Dress Codes to Know

Daytime on Strip

Anything goes—shorts, flip-flops, tank tops are fine. It's Vegas, nobody judges.

Nightclubs

• Men: Collared shirt, dress shoes, nice jeans or slacks (no shorts, no sneakers, no hats)
• Women: Dresses, heels, fashionable attire (more flexibility than men)

Fine Dining

• Business casual minimum: No shorts, no flip-flops, no athletic wear
• High-end restaurants: Jacket recommended but rarely required

Shows

• Cirque du Soleil: Resort casual (nice jeans, collared shirt)
• Most other shows: Anything presentable works

First-Timer FAQ: 20+ Common Questions Answered

Logistics Questions

Do I need a rental car?

No, if staying on Strip. Parking fees ($15-30/night) plus rental costs make Uber cheaper. Yes, if planning day trips to Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, or Red Rock Canyon.

What's the legal drinking age?

21 years old. Strictly enforced. ID required everywhere. Don't even think about fake IDs—felony charges apply.

Can I drink on the street?

Yes, on the Strip and in designated areas. No glass containers. Plastic cups only. Don't drink and drive.

Is there Uber in Vegas?

Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate extensively. Pickup zones at all major hotels.

Do I need cash or credit cards?

Both. Credit cards accepted everywhere, but cash needed for tipping ($20-40 in $1 and $5 bills per day).

Money Questions

Are resort fees mandatory?

Yes, unfortunately. $20-45/night added to bill regardless of whether you use amenities. Very few Strip hotels don't charge them.

How much should I tip?

• Bartenders: $1-2 per drink
• Cocktail servers: $1-2 per drink
• Dealers: $5-10 per hour of play or when winning
• Valet: $2-5 when car is returned
• Bellhop: $2-5 per bag
• Housekeeping: $3-5 per night
• Restaurant servers: 18-20%

Are ATMs expensive?

Casino floor ATMs: $5-8 fee. Bank ATMs in lobbies: Normal fees. Bring cash or use credit cards to avoid fees.

Do casinos take credit cards?

Yes, but treated as cash advance with immediate interest and fees. Use debit card or cash instead.

Gambling Questions

What's the minimum bet?

• Slot machines: $0.01-$5 per spin
• Blackjack: $5-15 downtown, $15-25 Strip
• Roulette: $5-25
• Craps: $5-15 downtown, $15-25 Strip
• Minimums increase at night and weekends

Are drinks really free?

Yes, while actively gambling. Insert player's card, play minimum bets, wait for cocktail server. Tip $1-2 per drink or service stops.

Can I smoke in casinos?

Yes, most casinos allow smoking on gaming floors. Non-smoking sections exist but smoke drifts. If smoke bothers you, stay at non-smoking properties (Park MGM, NoMad).

Practical Questions

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, completely safe. Tastes mineral-heavy (comes from Lake Mead) but perfectly drinkable.

What's the weather like?

• Summer (June-Aug): 105-115°F, bone dry
• Fall (Sep-Nov): 70-90°F, perfect
• Winter (Dec-Feb): 45-65°F, occasional rain
• Spring (Mar-May): 65-90°F, warming up

Can I bring kids?

Yes, but Vegas is adult-oriented. Kids allowed in hotels and restaurants but not on casino floors. Limited family attractions exist. Consider whether it's appropriate for your children.

What time is check-in/check-out?

Check-in: Usually 3-4 PM. Check-out: Usually 11 AM. Early check-in possible with $20 trick or hotel status.

Experience Questions

Is Vegas safe?

Generally yes, in tourist areas. Strip and downtown heavily policed. Use common sense, avoid dark alleys, watch your drinks, don't flash cash.

Will I be pressured to gamble?

No, you can enjoy Vegas without gambling. Free attractions, shows, dining, people-watching provide plenty of entertainment.

Can I visit Grand Canyon?

Yes, but it's 4-5 hours each way. West Rim (2 hours) has Skywalk but less scenic. South Rim (4-5 hours) is iconic Grand Canyon. Consider helicopter tours for time savings.

Is prostitution legal?

No, not in Las Vegas. Legal brothels exist in rural Nevada counties but NOT Clark County (Las Vegas). Solicitation is illegal and unsafe.

What if I lose track of time?

That's the plan—casinos have no clocks or windows. Set phone alarms for important reservations. Don't feel bad, it happens to everyone.

Should I book excursions in advance?

Yes, for popular activities (Grand Canyon helicopter tours, Hoover Dam tours, zip lines). No for spontaneous decisions. Hotel concierge can help day-of.

Your First Vegas Trip: Final Thoughts

The First-Timer Mindset

Las Vegas is designed to overwhelm you. The lights, the noise, the scale, the heat, the crowds, the non-stop stimulation—it's a lot. This is intentional. The city makes money by keeping you off-balance, excited, and opening your wallet.

But here's what the casinos don't want you to know: You can have an incredible Vegas experience on your terms. You don't have to gamble away your savings, stay at the most expensive hotel, or eat at celebrity chef restaurants every meal. The free attractions are genuinely amazing. The budget hotels can be perfectly comfortable. The cheap eats can be delicious.

Your First Trip Should Be About Discovery

Don't try to "do" Vegas on your first visit. You can't. The city is too big, too complex, too exhausting. Instead, focus on experiencing the essence of what makes Vegas special:

• The surreal scale of Strip hotels
• The electric energy that peaks around midnight
• The absurdity of finding Venice, Paris, and Egypt on one street
• The people-watching (Vegas attracts characters)
• The feeling that normal rules don't quite apply here

The Perfect First Vegas Trip

Stays 3-4 nights. Long enough to really experience Vegas without burning out.

Books a center Strip hotel. Location matters more than luxury for first-timers.

Plans 2-3 priorities per day. Leaves room for spontaneity and recovery.

Experiences one great show. This is what Vegas does better than anywhere.

Mixes free and paid attractions. You don't need to spend to be entertained.

Sets and sticks to budget. Vegas respects those who respect their limits.

Stays hydrated and paced. Taking breaks makes everything more enjoyable.

Embraces the weirdness. Vegas is supposed to be over-the-top and ridiculous.

You'll Make Mistakes

Everyone does on their first trip. You'll underestimate distances and walk too far in the heat. You'll forget to drink water and feel terrible the next day. You'll spend more than planned on something that seemed like a good idea at the time. You'll be exhausted and overwhelmed.

That's okay. Those mistakes become stories. Learning how Vegas works is part of the experience. Your second trip will be better because you'll know what to expect.

The Vegas Magic

Despite the commercialism, the crowds, the heat, the expense, and the exhaustion, there's something magical about Las Vegas. It's the only place where you can watch fountains dance to opera, walk from New York to Paris in five minutes, eat tacos at 4 AM, and watch the sun rise over mountains from a casino floor.

It's a city built on excess, designed for entertainment, and completely unlike anywhere else on Earth. Love it or hate it (most people do both), Vegas delivers an experience you won't forget.

Your Next Steps

1. Pick your dates: Avoid summer heat and major conventions
2. Book your hotel: Center Strip, calculate total cost including resort fees
3. Research shows: Book 1-2 weeks ahead for best prices
4. Set your budget: Be realistic about all costs
5. Plan your priorities: Must-see attractions and experiences
6. Pack smart: Comfortable shoes most important
7. Go with an open mind: Let Vegas surprise you

Welcome to Las Vegas. It's going to be loud, bright, expensive, exhausting, and absolutely unforgettable. Embrace the chaos, protect your budget, pace yourself, and enjoy the ride.

Your first Vegas trip is a rite of passage. Make it count.

This guide reflects extensive research, local knowledge, and feedback from thousands of first-time Vegas visitors. Information current as of January 2025. Prices, show availability, and hotel conditions change frequently—always verify current details before booking. Gamble responsibly and within your means.