collaborative post | It’s arguable that no US city has gone through as rapid a transformation as Las Vegas over the past couple of decades. The city is booming and has diversified from its previous casino-focused economy, becoming a tech hub and one of America’s biggest sports cities.
That said, so many of us traveling there will have one thing in mind: Visiting and staying on the iconic Vegas Strip. It’s still where most of the action is, which extends to casinos, restaurants, pool parties, shows, and nightclubs.
In light of that, we have parsed out some insights for visiting The Strip; simply some ideas to think about, while bearing in mind that The Strip, too, has changed alongside greater Las Vegas.
Here are some varied tips and insights to consider:
The Strip Is Massive & Distances Are Deceptive
When you arrive at your resort, you’ll likely be handed one of those little novelty maps showing some of the major hotels dotted about The Strip. You’ll look and think, “it’s not that far from A to B.” But the Strip is almost five miles long, and in the summer heat, it can feel like a lot longer.
Night Clubbing? Be Prepared to Pay or Queue
If you are heading off to dance the night away in one of the big clubs like OMNIA or Hakkasan, be aware that there will be very long queues. The solution? Pay for bottle service, though that could set you back several hundred dollars, even more for the exclusive tables. It’s just the way of things.
<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/_6-FG_EWk6w?si=pENmqpMMGA9kYMyl” title=”YouTube video player” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share” referrerpolicy=”strict-origin-when-cross-origin” allowfullscreen></iframe>
Cheap Gaming Tables Are Rare on The Strip
Most blackjack tables on The Strip will have minimum bets, usually anything between $10-$20 per hand. $5 tables are becoming rarer on The Strip. It’s completely different to playing online blackjack, where hands can be played for as little as 20 cents in most cases. If you are looking for cheaper tables – say at $1 – then you’ll probably have to head downtown. Jackpot slots are usually a little cheaper in all casinos.
There’s a Lot of Free Stuff on The Strip
Vegas can feel like a maelstrom sucking your wallet dry at times, but there’s lots of free stuff on The Strip. Most of the major resorts have interesting things going on, from the Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio to the free shows at the Piano Bar in Harrah’s. There’s plenty of stuff going on that won’t cost a penny.
Do Some Research Online for Cheap Drinks and Eats
Contrary to what the movies suggest, Vegas isn’t quite the mecca of free drinks that you might expect. Sure, you will be given a complimentary tipple if playing at a table, but that could cost you on the long run. Typically, the big resorts will charge just as much for a beer or cocktail as the plushest bars in Manhattan or London. Yet, there are always cheap options, even in the swankiest resorts. Do a little research to find happy hours and promos before deciding where – and when – to go.
Don’t Underestimate the Weather
One of the strangest sights you’ll see in Vegas in June is people carrying umbrellas, despite the fact that there’s not a cloud in the sky. It’s the desert, and the heat can be oppressive and highly dangerous. On the reverse side, the winter months can be much colder than you would expect.
Tips Go A Long, Long Way
Tipping for service is ubiquitous across the USA, but it’s the lifeblood of the Las Vegas service economy. Here’s the rub: Even if you are on a budget, it can be the key to opening doors, almost literally. Consider that a casino floor server is much more likely to return with free drinks if you tip, even if you aren’t playing heavily on the gaming tables.
Old-School Vegas Upgrade Still Exists
A bit of charm and friendliness can still work wonders in Vegas. So, being friendly on check-in might get you that free room upgrade. Try to be sociable, avoiding online check-in, for instance, and don’t be too cheeky in your requests. The employees know their craft, and they can reward you with freebies just for being nice.
