Las Vegas is the most populous city in Nevada. In 2017, there were around 432.7 million passenger trips in Sin City, making it the third-largest metropolis in the country. It is well known for its glamorous nightlife and exciting casinos. If you have a few days to spare in Vegas, you could use them to work your way through the city’s extensive collection of museums. After all, nobody said getting old has to be boring. It’s fun to discover the history of your home town through exhibits located in famous landmarks. Plus, you have the option of taking a walk down memory lane by riding the rails. Way back in the day, thousands of people traveled to Vegas for the weekend – mostly from nearby California – to celebrate America’s greatest pastime: gambling! So here’s a quick guide to tell you where the famous gambling destinations are situated in Las Vegas.
The Strip
This is the most famous area of Las Vegas, known for its flashy glamour and bright lights. The Strip is full of famous casinos such as Caesar’s Palace and the Golden Nugget. These two landmarks sit side by side, and their opulent décor and spectacular shows make for a popular destination for people from all over the world. The iconic Eiffel Tower silhouette can also be spotted atop the two skyscrapers that define the Strip. The tower’s distinctive red and white stripes will make you instantly recognizable from anywhere in town.
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It is a staggering sight to behold, especially when seen from the bottom. Many have compared it to a mini Hollywood, with film sets standing in for the arid landscape of the canyon. It is also the largest canyon in North America. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, this tourist attraction is certain to impress you. The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during the monsoon season, which is roughly from June to October. The rainwater that runs off the lush green mountains feeds the gigantic waterfall that cascades into the canyon. The resulting mist creates a beautiful ethereal atmosphere that is absolutely breathtaking.
The Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is one of the true engineering marvels of the 20th century. Its construction, which began in 1931 and was completed two years later, involved more than 10 million cubic yards of concrete. This is enough concrete to build a house of 10,000 square feet. The dam’s power plant generates enough electricity to provide for a city of a million people. When the dam was inaugurated, it was the largest structure ever built by humanity. This is undoubtedly one of the most important historic sites in Vegas. It’s humbling to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest minds of the modern era. If you are a history buff, the Hoover Dam is a dream come true.
Treasure Island
Treasure Island is the first officially recognized neighborhood within the Las Vegas city limits. It is located just south of the airport. The historic main street – known as the Las Vegas Strip – connects the suburb with the Downtown area. In recent years, this formerly sleepy suburb has transformed itself into a vibrant cultural hub. There are more than 20 boutique and trendy hotels, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars. The neighborhood also boasts the largest mall in the city, the Tropicana Mall. If shopping is your thing, you could easily spend a profitable day in Treasure Island. There are also a number of excellent restaurants there, so you are sure to enjoy your food budget. The island gets its name from the popular 1934 novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. If you love to gamble, visit this charming casino enclave – you’ll have a good time trying your luck at one of the many table games.
Downtown
Downtown is the area of Las Vegas where all the action takes place. The center of the city is filled with iconic neon signs and glitzy billboards. Bars and nightclubs line the streets, serving up some of the best street food in the form of fish and chips, tacos, and nachos. There are also a number of museums scattered around the center, offering up amazing displays of American and western art. If you love to spend your day strolling around, eating food, and discovering novelties, then Downtown is the place to be. It is full of character, and there’s something for everyone.
The Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens consist of more than 4 million plants belonging to more than 2000 species. It is one of the few remaining green spaces in an area of the city that is otherwise composed of skyscrapers. The gardens are open to the public daily, so you can take a stroll through and enjoy the gorgeous flora. The walkway winds through beds of gorgeous orchids, as well as eucalyptus, camellia, and aeonium.
Old Town
Old Town is located just north of the airport. It is the original area of Las Vegas, dating back to the 19th century. The charm of the old town stems from its eclectic collection of restored buildings from that era. The heart of the old town is Main Street, which is lined with vintage boutiques, galleries, and eateries. You’ll find everything from antique stores to art galleries, and they’re all sure to enchant you. There is also an 18-hole golf course that has hosted several major tournaments. Just steps away from the fairways, you will find lush fairway gardens and a swimming pool. The Las Vegas Aquarium is also located in the old town, and it’s a great way to make the most of your visit. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat. Bringing nature and art together, the aquarium is a great educational tool for children. The old town also prides itself on being the place to be if you are a film geek. Many movies have been filmed there, with some of the most famous productions being Sunset Strip, and the Quentin Tarantulinu film, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
The New York
The New York is the name given to the part of Las Vegas that is modeled after New York City. It is officially recognized as a tourist attraction, with its own street of luxury hotels and boutiques. The Vegas equivalent of Central Park is found here, with scenic walks, flower gardens, and fountains. There is also a wide variety of restaurants and cafes that offer up some of the best street food in town. Even the design of the streets and building façades is reminiscent of that found in Manhattan. If you are a fan of classic American films, this is the part of Las Vegas you must visit. You can easily spend a day or two wandering around The New York, soaking up the atmosphere and taking in the sites. There are also three small museums that you can visit, looking into American history and the works of some of the country’s greatest artists.
The Venice
Venice, like the other neighborhoods mentioned thus far, has something for everyone. The Italianate architecture and canals will captivate even the most cynical of travelers. The famous Grand Canal is lined with bars and eateries, as well as luxury hotels. The whole area is beautifully landscaped. It is home to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Headquarters, the city’s major hospital, and some of its most expensive and luxurious residential properties. It is accessible via The Strip, or you can take the California road and reach it from the north entrance of the airport. As the tourism industry in Italy continues to grow, it’s an ideal location for a romantic getaway or corporate incentive trip.
That sums up the most populated areas of Las Vegas. Remember to pack your passport and visa to travel to any of these places. You’ll have a good time trying your luck at one of the city’s famous casinos, or you can head over to the botanical gardens and take a walk around the neighborhood’s green spaces. Let your imagination run wild, and you may find yourself transported away to another time and place. It’s fun to discover the charms of a city you love so much.