10 Do’s & Don’ts for First-time las Vegas visitors
Every city has its own unwritten rules or do’s and don’ts. Sometimes you find these out the hard way through dirty looks or worse yet – being called out. Other times, you learn about them later and wish you had known them. Before you visit Las Vegas for the first time, check out these do’s and don’ts so you won’t stand out as a rookie visitor.
1. DO Obey crosswalk signals
We know you want to get where you are going, so what’s the big deal if you cross against the light, right? First, it’s dangerous, and you could get hurt. Additionally, Vegas has very carefully timed lights. Your decision to cross against the light could throw off traffic for several light cycles. Don’t be surprised if you cross against the light and hear some choice words from our friendly cabbies.
If there isn’t a sidewalk, you are probably not supposed to walk there. There are several cross-over bridges on Las Vegas Boulevard - be sure to use them instead of trying to illegally run across Las Vegas Boulevard.
2. DON’T FORGET HOW BIG THE STRIP REALLY IS
Vegas can be a huge mirage - everything looks closer than it really is in reality. Before deciding to walk anywhere, begin by putting your destination into Google Maps (or a similar app) to see how far the walk is really going to be. Just because you can see it from where you’re standing doesn’t mean that it’s close!
The Deuce is the name of the public bus that runs along Las Vegas Boulevard. It stops in front of most resorts, so consider purchasing a day pass so you can hop on and off - your feet will thank you!
3. DO Leave the Strip and Downtown Las Vegas
Vegas is so much more than just the Las Vegas Strip! Even if you’re not renting a car, there are several cool neighborhoods to explore that are just a short rideshare away from the Strip.
For example, Chinatown is located just West of the Strip across I-15. Here you will find amazing Asian restaurants and a unique Japanese game room called Game Nest.
Just south on Las Vegas Boulevard you’ll find Town Square, a bustling outdoor mall with a huge miniature golf course, outdoor entertainment, and much more.
And just outside the city limits, you’ll find Red Rock, an amazing National Conservation Area. There are also some fun one-tank trips if you rent a car, including to the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and Valley of Fire.
Don’t forget about tour companies! There are several options for tours outside of the Las Vegas Strip that will pick you up directly from your hotel.
4. DON’T Leave Minors Unattended in a Casino
Casinos are very strict about gaming policies. If a minor is caught violating a Gaming Commission rule, including being on the casino floor, sitting at a slot machine, placing a wager, or ordering an alcoholic drink, there may be serious consequences for you, the minor involved, and the casino.
Some casinos have a strict 21+ age requirement. El Cortez and Circa, both located downtown, require all guests to be 21 to enter. Most other casinos only restrict minors from the casino floor.
5. DO Hydrate
Vegas has very little humidity and, in the summer, it also has very high heat. This can lead to dehydration faster than you think! Additionally, alcohol intake and caffeine can seriously exacerbate it. Be sure to keep water on hand for everyone in your group and watch for signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, thirst, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.
Las Vegas is probably a lot drier than the climate you’re used to. Consider purchasing a small, portable humidifier for your hotel room. The GENIANI Portable Cool Humidifier is a great option!
6. DON’T Wear New Shoes
On average, Las Vegas visitors walk 5-7 miles a day. This is not the time or the place to try out new shoes! The Las Vegas Strip is over 4 miles long, and while most people don’t walk the entire strip, you’re still going to be getting some serious steps here. Also, most attractions are set back from the street, so once you arrive at your destination, you still have to walk further just to get to where you actually want to go.
Consider bringing at least one pair of closed-toe shoes, as some attractions require them.
7. DO Your Homework
Vegas hosts numerous large conventions and events each year. If your schedule is flexible, consider avoiding these times if you aren’t planning on attending the event. For example, during F1 in November, much of the Las Vegas Strip is closed down, and some attractions are unreachable. If you are not coming for the race, you may want to avoid that week altogether. Check out the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Convention and Event Calendar before booking your visit.
Sign up for a player’s club card before gambling at a casino. Many offer something for free, like a deck of cards, some free play, or a free drink. Wait to sign up until you are at the actual casino - if you signup online beforehand, you may not receive the new account bonus when you arrive.
8. DON’T Use Glass Containers
We love a nice glass water bottle, but glass containers are not allowed on the Las Vegas Strip. If you have purchased any beverage in a glass container, be sure to transfer it into a paper or plastic cup before walking outside on the Strip.
Try to get all of your individual beverages in plastic bottles. Check out our guide for finding supplies on the Strip here.
9. DO Make Reservations
One of the biggest challenges in Vegas is restaurant availability. If you want to eat at a certain time, or don’t want to wait hours for a table, be sure to make reservations for all of your meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
If you want a specific view or table, be prepared to pay an additional fee. Many Las Vegas restaurants charge for a view of the Strip or kitchen-side tables for open kitchens.
Some hotels have restaurant line passes for certain categories of hotel rooms or levels of players club cards. Be sure to ask about this when making your hotel reservation.
10. DON’T Forget the Sunscreen
Regardless of the season, you need sunscreen in Vegas. Even if you are only planning on being outside for a short while, make sure everyone in your group applies sunscreen at the start of your day and re-applies throughout the day as well!
In addition to sunscreen, don’t forget lip balm, sunglasses, lotion, and a hat too! These will all be welcome supplies for long days in the Vegas heat.
Vegas is a fun and exciting vacation destination for everyone in the family. Follow these do’s and don’ts on your next visit and you’ll be a Vegas family vacation pro in no time!