About Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a leading financial, commercial, and cultural city of Nevada. Being a grand city of casinos, Vegas is merely known for gambling, shopping, fine dining, entertainment, and nightlife. Additionally, the city offers an endless amount of places to explore and is one of the best places to spend a vacation at.
Plus, with our exclusive Las Vegas tour guide, you will have a gateway to discover everything the city has to offer.
With over 60 casinos in Las Vegas Strip the city attracts young travelers from around the world to stroll and discover the untouched elegance of this haven. To learn more about this exquisite town, take a good read of this travel book and prepare a list of all things you can do here.
Population
Las Vegas has a population of 641,903 as per 2020 U.S. Census. In addition, the metropolitan population of Sin city is 2,227,053. With a population density of 4376 people per square mile, Vegas is the 26th most populous city of the United States. With a substantial increase in population rate each year, it is becoming a populous town of the country.
Geography
Las Vegas is located within Clark County in a basin on the surface of Mojave Desert. In addition, it is surrounded by mountain ranges from all sides. While much of the landscape is rocky and is covered with deserted vegetation and notable wildlife, it is still subject to torrential flash floods. Besides, it is located at an elevation of 2,030 ft (620 m) above sea level.
History
Las Vegas city history began when Nomadic-Paleo Indians traveled to the city 10,000 years ago. The city was encountered when a railroad was opened between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. Later on, the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints decided to build a fort between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City, which was abandoned years later. However, the fort is still overlooked as an intersection point between Las Vegas Boulevard and Washington Avenue.
Furthermore, Vegas was founded as a city in 1905, when a large area of land was auctioned to be the present day downtown area. And in 1911, the town was incorporated as the Las Vegas city. Additionally, the first mayor of the town was Peter Buol from 1911 to 1913.
Religion
The most followed religion in Las Vegas is Christianism(66%), considering the highest population of the town is American. Apart from that, other religions followed here are Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam (1%), Jewish(3%). Furthermore, the other religious denomination in Las Vegas is Roman Catholic Congregation(25%).
Culture
Culture in Las Vegas is usually dedicated towards gambling, entertainment, casinos and less on traditional and historical sites. The casinos and hotels of the town are considered as masterpieces of monumental architecture; situated along the dazzling promenade of Las Vegas Boulevard, and are open to the tourists and even locals without any charge.
Language
With the majority of Americans residing in the city, English is the most spoken language in Las Vegas. Rest there are a total of 15 languages spoken in the town. With the highest number of English speakers (68%), Spanish(15%), Chinese (10%) and French(8%) are next after English. Surprisingly, the percentage of non-English speakers in Vegas is higher than other states of the USA.
Currency
The official currency of Las Vegas is U.S. Dollar ($, US$, USD).
Governance
Las Vegas has six neighboring boroughs: Henderson, North Las Vegas, Primm, Summerlin, The Strip, and the West of the Strip. Moreover, the government of Las Vegas acts as a council-manager government. The mayor sits as the head of city council and also presides in city council meetings and has a vote. In addition, Carolyn Goodman has been the Mayor of the town since 2011.
Climate
Las Vegas encounters a subtropical hot desert climate taking from Mojave Desert where it is located. The city gets an abundance of sunshine throughout the year with the summer season, which is from June to September, being the hottest with a temperature of (32°C). Moreover, the winter season is quite short in Vegas from December to January with a temperature of (13.8 °C).
When to Go
The best time to go and explore the city is an important factor to consider, when you really want to enjoy a vacation in Las Vegas, Nevada. Additionally, if your flying dates are flexible, then consider traveling to the city around November to January, when the weather is mild and favorable enough.
Travel
If you are visiting Nevada from another country for 90 days for tourism, business, and medical purposes, an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required. You have to apply for ESTA at least 3 days before your scheduled departure.
Due to Covid-19, there are some travel restrictions in Las Vegas. Hence, read the updated government guidelines before applying for a visa.
If you belong to one of the 40 countries part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for ESTA. Additionally, you must have an e-passport to use the Visa Waiver Program. However, the purpose of your visit to Las Vegas, Nevada should be tourism, business, or medical. For other purposes, the eligibility criteria would be different.
For a trip to Nevada for 90 days, ESTA is the quickest and easiest way to get travel permission. However, check your ESTA eligibility criteria before applying for a B1 and B2 visa.
B1 Business Visa: If you are going to the US for a business meeting or conference.
B2 Tourist Visa: If you are traveling to the US for tourism.
While applying for a visa, the first step is to complete the DS-160 form. Once you submit it online, schedule an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to provide some documents at the interview.
The ID and Documentation requirements to visit Las Vegas, Nevada varies from country to country. Furthermore, it also depends on your nationality, health status, criminal record, and purpose of the visit. The ID and documents required to enter the territory of the US are:
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity
- You must have an electronic, biometric passport, which is equipped with an electronic chip in it and contain your biometric data.
- Your ESTA must be valid when you arrive in the US. You can’t renew your ESTA and overstay.
Arriving From Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
- Citizens arriving in the U.S. from these countries must show a valid passport, U.S. Passport Card, a Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST), or an enhanced driver license.
- Canadian citizens can use NEXUS instead of a passport to arrive in the U.S. if departing from Canada.
Arrival From Other Countries
- Citizens from other countries must present a valid passport upon arrival.
- Both permanent residents and foreign nationals need a U.S visa.
Before traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada, you should prepare the necessary information needed for mandatory security checks to prevent delays on the Airport. To learn more about the security and customs guidelines for travel to the USA, you can check out the US Customs website and acknowledge the number of items you are carrying with you.
The prohibited items as per the US Federal Law are:
- Alcoholic beverages over 70% by volume
- Alcoholic beverages under 70% by volume
- Animal products or products of animal origin (EU destinations only)
- Batteries
- Cutting instruments
- Defense sprays
- Drones
- Dry ice
- Electronic cigarettes like vapor or e-cigarettes
- Explosives
- Firearms and ammunition
- Flammable items, liquids or solids
- Gasoline powered tools
- Hoverboards
- Marijuana
- Mobility Devices
- Lighters and Matches
- Pressurized containers/compressed gasses
- Self-heating meals
- Self-inflating life jackets
- Scissors and tools
- Smart bags
The major airport in Las Vegas is Harry Reid International Airport(LAS) that connects the city with all major destinations worldwide. In addition, it is the major airport of Vegas and owned by Clark County Commission.
Being operated by the Clark County Department of Aviation, it is the busiest airport in the United States. Moreover, the airport is also a primary hub for Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.
Also, if you’re looking for an accommodation nearby you must pre-book your hotel for a hassle free experience. As a matter of fact, there are several hotels available near the airport, which offer easy airport pick-up and drop-off. Besides, for a quick bite near the airport, take a cab which will take you to your destination.
Harry Reid International Airport(LAS) Customer Support Number (24*7)
Custom and Immigration
Location: Harry Reid International Airport, 5757 Wayne Newton Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States
Contact Info: +1 (702) 261-5211
Emergency and Medical Assistance
Dial 211 from a courtesy phone, 911 from a payphone or cell phone in an emergency. For medical emergencies, professional medical assistance is available 24×7 at the airport.
Lost and Found
Contact Las Vegas International Airport TSA Lost & Found at +1 702-261-5134.
The most popular airlines to fly from/to Las Vegas are- Southwest Airlines, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Air Canada, VivaAerobus, Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa Airlines, KLM, British Airways etc.
Now you must be wondering about how to travel in Las Vegas and explore the city. So, here are some transport options you can opt while strolling the place
- Public Transport
Las Vegas offers a variety of public transportations for all those who don’t wish to navigate the city by car or foot. In addition, a huge percent of inhabitants and tourists take advantage of the transit system of the city.
- Las Vegas Monorail
The Monorail offers a hassle-free experience and is the perfect option if you want to explore the Las Vegas Strip on budget. Moreover, the monorail navigates the entire Vegas Strip in 15 minutes at a speed of up to 50 mph. It offers mobile tickets and several fare types to provide a comfortable journey for all travelers.
- Taxi
Taxis have been used throughout Vegas for years now. It is the most convenient type of public transport, which you can use anywhere in the city. Besides, you never need to be worried about whether a taxi will arrive or not, considering there are plenty of companies available.
- Ridesharing
You can opt for ridesharing with Uber and Lyft, which provide a convenient experience when you want to travel and explore the city in a budget-friendly manner. You can simply book a cab from the app and wait for the driver to come.
- Rental Cars
The International Airport of the city houses a rental car center which includes 10 housing companies in each location. In addition, the center is open 24 hours a day and 365 days a year with rental car services to and from the airport.
- Limos
Traveling in Limousines is quite cool and stylish which offers you an option to take a limo from the airport and reach your hotel or explore the city in style. While limos are always available, it’s best to make a reservation in advance to avoid waiting time.
- Bus
You can always take a bus service in Vegas to travel around the city. The Deuce is a bus service operated by the Regional Transportation Commission. The bus service is open to all the destinations; however, the two major routes are the Vegas Strip and downtown.
Accommodation
From luxurious hotels to affordable B&Bs Las Vegas has a variety of accommodations to choose from. Let’s look at the best hotels in Las Vegas where you can consider staying during your trip in this city.
Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
Address: 206 N 3rd St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States
Contact: +1 702-719-5100
Mardi Gras Hotel & Casino
Address: 3500 S Paradise Rd #101, Las Vegas, NV 89169, United States
Contact: +1 702-731-2020
The Berkeley, Las Vegas
Address: 8280 Dean Martin Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89139, United States
Contact: +1 702-224-7400
Platinum Hotel and Spa
Address: 211 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169, United States
Contact: +1 702-365-5000
Desert Rose Resort
Address: 5051 Duke Ellington Way, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States
Contact: +1 702-739-7000
Services
When in the US, call 911 in case of any emergency. In addition, the Emergency Medical Services Department of Las Vegas offers medical assistance to all the residents and tourists visiting Las Vegas, Nevada. Furthermore, below are the emergency contact numbers of emergency services in Las Vegas.
Mountain View Hospital
Address: 3100 N Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV 89128, United States
Contact: +1 702-962-5000
Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center
Address: 3186 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact: +1 702-961-5000
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Alto Pharmacy
Address: 600 E Pilot Rd Ste A, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States
Contact: +1 800-874-5881
All the tourists traveling to the USA should get their insurance coverage before departing from their home country. From medical to travel insurance, visitors should ensure they are completely insured.
Why is insurance necessary?
Travel insurance is necessary for unexpected losses or expenses such as missing flights, losing luggage, stolen cash, and missing passport.
Gas, Electric, Phones, Cable TV service
Contact: 702-367-5555
Las Vegas Fire Department
Contact: 702-367-5555
Dress Code
One of the fun facts about Las Vegas city is that you can dress casually in the city. Whether you are traveling around the city or playing your luck in a casino, you have full freedom to choose what you wear. For instance, men can wear a nice pair of jeans paired with a collared shirt, while women can wear a casual dress.
Drinking
Drinking in Las Vegas is legal and allowed in Public as long as you don’t sit at one place to drink all day. Instead, you can have your drink while strolling through the city. Additionally, follow social etiquettes while drinking and avoid indulging in any unnecessary chaos.
Tipping
Tipping in Vegas is a real thing even for locals. So, do remember to spare a minimum tip of 2$- 3$ even if the service provided isn’t up to your expectations.
Photography
However, clicking pictures in the city is completely legal, and in fact you will find tons of photoshoot spots in different corners of the town.
While checking out this Las Vegas tour guide, you should also know more about photography trends in the city. Unfortunately, clicking pictures in casinos is strictly prohibited due to safety reasons.
Moreover, you can click pictures of any subject as long as you’re in public, but capturing photos is strictly prohibited in any private establishment.
The city comprises six neighborhoods which are equally beautiful as much Vegas is. The six boroughs are: Henderson, North Las Vegas, Primm, Summerlin, The Strip, and the West of the Strip. Now, let’s have a look at each of these boroughs which is also considered as one of the best things to do in Las Vegas.
- Henderson
Being a former town full of manufacturing plants and industrial sites, this neighborhood now goes by the name “Green Valley.” In addition, this friendly town is now a trending place and consists of a fast-growing locality.
- North Las Vegas
Nestled near Air Force base, this neighborhood is home to many military families and racing grounds which attract a heavy crowd of all car racing lovers. The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a perfect place to catch a glimpse of all racing trends.
- Primm
Located a short drive away from South Las Vegas, this neighborhood is a popular place for all locals and Californians. Additionally, here you will find tons of activities to indulge in and a lot of options to shop.
- Summerlin
It is located on the far west side of Las Vegas Valley and is a large neighborhood of the town. Besides, a wide array of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities present here are a perfect escape from the casinos.
- The Strip
This place is best known for housing world-class casinos and clubs which provide a pleasing experience to all adults who visit this neighborhood. Moreover, the place is chock full of adult-only entertainment options to have the best time in Vegas. - West of The Strip
A few blocks west from The Strip is this neighborhood when the city starts to take a turn. Here, you will find businesses, homes, local restaurants, and neighboring hotel casinos.
Museum and Cultural Tour
Visiting museums is a crucial part of the Las Vegas tour guide and luckily, there are tons of museums you can explore in this city. From historical centers to the popular car museum, the city receives a lot of appreciation for the conservation of American culture.
In addition, the downtown district of the town is immensely dedicated to such world renowned museums and art galleries that augment the beauty of this place and attract several tourists here.
Top Museums and Art Galleries
The Mob Museum
Hollywood Car Museum
Clark County Museum
The Art of Richard MacDonald
Las Vegas Sightseeing
Las Vegas Sightseeing
Fremont Street
Shark Reef Aquarium
Neon Museum
Stratosphere Tower
Las Vegas Food and Wine Tour
High End Dining
If you’re thinking about the best restaurant in Las Vegas, then here comes a list of all the eateries you can have a delicious bite in. Additionally, Las Vegas boasts plenty of delectable restaurants that often attract tourists visiting the city. With a decent amount of finest restaurants, this foodie town pays a considerable respect to culinary traditions of Nevada. The creative chefs of Las Vegas are gifted with a talent to sprinkle flavors of America in each dish they prepare. So, let’s explore the list of top-rated delectable restaurants this city has to offer. But do remember to check the latest travel restrictions in Las Vegas.
Top of the World
Address: 3131 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact: +1 702-380-7711
The Capital Grille
Address: 3200 Las Vegas Blvd S Suite 3300, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact:+1 702-932-6631
Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse
Address: 129 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States
Contact: +1 702-386-8399
Wing Lei
Address: 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States
Contact:+1 702-770-3388
Hugo’s Cellar
Address: 202 Fremont Street Experience, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States
Contact: +1 702-385-4011
Casual Dining
Edge Steakhouse
Address: 1130 S Casino Center Blvd #110, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States
Contact: +1 702-570-7864
Herbs & Rye
Address: 3713 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102, United States
Contact: +1 702-982-8036
Esther’s Kitchen
Address: 1130 S Casino Center Blvd #110, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States
Contact: +1 702-982-8036
Cipriani
Address: 3131 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact: +1 702-982-8036
Le Thai
Address: 523 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States
Contact: +1 702-778-0888
Bars & Lounges
The Urban Lounge Las Vegas
Address: 6145 W Sahara Ave Unit #1, Las Vegas, NV 89146, United States
Contact: +1 702-443-5354
Rush Lounge
Address:129 E Fremont St, Las Vegas,
NV 89101, United States
Contact: +1 702-386-8221
Level One Bar & Lounge
Address: 1410 S Main St, Las Vegas,
NV 89104, United States
Contact: +1 702-665-4333
Star Lounge
Address: 3449 S Sammy Davis Jr Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact: +1 702-476-5328
Casbar Lounge
Address:2535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Contact:+1 702-761-7000
Spas & Wellness Resorts
Saffron Day Spa
Address:2400 S Jones Blvd #14, Las Vegas, NV 89146, United States
Contact: +1 702-367-3529
Luxury Thai Spa Massage
Address:2555 Montessouri St Suite #B, Las Vegas, NV 89117, United States
Contact:+1 702-463-2465
Imperial Health Spa
Address: 1070 E Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States
Contact: +1 702-382-9700
Star Beauty Spa
Address:3455 S Durango Dr #107, Las Vegas, NV 89117, United States
Contact: +1 702-899-7577
Palm Wellness and Spa
Address: 953 E Sahara Ave Ste A9, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States
Contact: +1 702-695-8880