Plan Your Las Vegas Holiday: Best of Las Vegas
Explore Las Vegas
Essential Las Vegas
Things to do
Food & drink
Our LGBTQ guide to the best of Las Vegas
- RuPaul's Drag Race LIVE! at the Flamingo Las Vegas99Witness the potential of high-production drag up close, but get ready for something more buttoned up than RuPaul’s MTV show. The line starts about an hour before the show, and sometimes the queens say hello on their way in! Drinks inside the show are pricey, so arrive early and sashay over to the Count Room for a cocktail.
- Senor Frog's Las Vegas5,694If you love dive bars and drag queens, this is your sanctuary of sequins, shots, and bottomless mimosas. Expect to pay more than a Drag Race Live! ticket, but you’ll experience top local queens and a few Ru girls at their rowdiest. Besides, if you want to forget how much it costs—well, you know what to do. Book a few weeks in advance for the best seating.
- The Garden Las Vegas5Looking for drag with a touch of glamour? Here, the refillable bevies come with the ability to upgrade, the menu is à la carte, and the backdrop matches the price tag, which is higher than most. But, you’re guaranteed Ru girls in addition to other show stopping queens. Reserve early.
- Vanderpump à Paris183It’s not the only French fine dining in Vegas, but it’s the only one that comes with potential Lisa and Ken Vanderpump sightings. Plus, it’s ideal for making special memories–you can’t take a bad photo inside. Bookings are highly suggested, but spontaneous couples might sneak in at the bar, which is open seating.
- Vanderpump Cocktail Garden At Caesars Palace298Wondering if other LGBTQ+ people are flocking to Lisa’s original Vegas bar and restaurant? They are, and the hype about the espresso martinis and goat cheese balls is true, but it’s almost always packed. You can’t make bookings, but you can go when it’s less busy—after lunch, early dinner, or right when it opens at 10 a.m. Hair of the dog?
- Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton829I like to recommend this place because it’s comfortable whether you’re in Vegas to party or you just want a home base where you let your hair down. It’s a 10-minute walk to the Fruit Loop and less than 10-minutes by car to the Strip. There’s a gay-ish nightclub on the 4th floor, and you will wake up each morning (or afternoon) to all the rejuvenating rooftop pool vibes.
- Atomic Saloon Show194Sexy dinner theatre is a revered tradition in Vegas, and this Western-themed fantasy with openly queer characters keeps it LGBTQ cute.
- The Neon Museum5,446This hour or so walk through the final resting place of the most famous neon lights in Vegas history is an Instagrammer’s paradise. The museum recently installed a permanent LGBTQ exhibit, featuring the same glowing signs that lit the first gay spaces. For the best photos, come at sunset, but buy your ticket early—it sells out.
- Luxor Hotel & Casino62,371Wanna soak up the sun with the beautiful people? Book your Sunday afternoon at this laid-back but popular LGBTQ pool party on the Strip. Get on the guest list and arrive by 1 p.m. to skip the cover. Not all seating has shade, and the good chairs go fast, but groups and couples can reserve a cabana, which includes recliners with umbrellas.
- The Liberace Museum Collection165Calling all Liberace fans. Honour the most famous LGBTQ showman to call Vegas home with a pilgrimage to Thriller Villa for the private tour of treasures from the now defunct Liberace Museum. If you’re just looking to live vicariously through this eccentric performer’s legendary car collection (including the most bedazzled models), snap photos, and take home a quirky souvenir, the Liberace Garage is a no-brainer.
Browse collections
- A birthday blowoutHow to celebrate your milestone day
- Winter in Las VegasSee what makes this place so magical this time of year
- Top spots for childrenYes, you can bring ‘em along for the ride
- Vegas on a dimeEats and activities that won’t break the bank
- If you're feeling fancy-ishLuxury experiences that are totally worth it
- Off the StripHidden gems just beyond the main drag
- When in Vegas…Thrills and experiences you can only get here
- Two thumbs way upConcerts, shows, and spectacles that wow
- Stay up to all hoursLate night bites, clubs, and more 24-hour fun
- Top chefsSnag a res at restaurants run by A-listers
- Take a dipThe best hotel pools and poolside hangs
- Adventure’s callingDay trips that'll get your adrenaline pumping
Las Vegas Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Las Vegas
Whitlam H
Make sure you wear comfortable footwear and its worn in as you will be walking a great deal … keep small dollar bills handy for tips … Don't overplan too much the first time — make a small list of your absolute "must dos" but take some time just to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
AprilfromRocky
Don't forget, there's the Deuce transit bus that goes up and down the strip, all the way to Fremont. Make sure to buy at least the 24 hr pass so you can get off and on whenever.
TCO_TX
If you're trying to learn the table games, check out the lessons most casinos offer in the morning. You'll learn the basic rules and etiquette and avoid being a nuisance when the tables are packed at night.
momlovesvegas
Vegas is anything you make it. From restful to exciting. From budget conscious to extravagant. There is something for everyone here!
louise G
Disneyland for adults!
PlatinumPaul
Vegas is one of the most unique places in the US. Despite other cities having casinos, nothing comes close to the awe of Vegas.
tommyt1869
Vegas is one-stop shopping for vacationers. Great Hotels, great food, great shows, gambling, nature. There is something for everyone here.
KatiJuice
An escape from the real world.
What is the best way to get there?
flying
McCarran International Airport is the main commercial airport servicing Las Vegas. Shuttle buses run from the airport to Strip hotels, Downtown Las Vegas and off-strip hotels.
bus
Greyhound offers bus services to Las Vegas with a terminal in Downtown Las Vegas.
driving
Travelers driving to Las Vegas usually approach the Strip off the I-15 Fwy.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Las Vegas from overseas, use the State Department’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (February to April): It's in summer that you’ll find Vegas’ hottest pool parties but to avoid the suntanned throngs of international party-goers, plan a visit in late spring when the pools are open, spring break is over, and the crowds are relatively thin.
However, travelers looking to snag a deal can do so in chilly December, before the holiday season kicks in.
Get around
bus
RTC buses operate daily with popular Strip and Downtown routes running 24/7 every 15 to 20 minutes.
shuttles
Many off-Strip casino hotels offer limited shuttle buses to and from the Strip for free.
monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail operates daily along the Strip with trains every 4-8 minutes.
taxis and rideshare
Local safety laws prohibit hailing a cab on the street. Instead, taxi stands can be found at almost every casino hotel and shopping mall. Uber and Lyft rideshare services are also readily available.
driving
Parking is available in hotel and shopping mall garages for a fee. There is also some free and paid Strip parking available.
Find more information about parking options and prices here.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Pacific Time Zone
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage in the United States is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The U.S. Dollar
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
Bartender
$1 a drink or $2 for a more labor-intensive cocktail
Restaurant
15-20%
Buffet
$1-$2 per person
Dealer
$1-$5 per session or 2-5% of your winnings
Bellman
$1 to 3 per bag
Housekeeper
$2-$3 per night
Taxi/Rideshare
15-20%
Shuttle Driver
$1-$2 per person
Tour guide
10-20%
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years old.
Gambling
Learn the basic rules of the games you are interested in playing before you participate.
Walking
Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.
Public transport
Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to pregnant women or someone with a disability.
Spitting
Spitting is considered rude in any public setting.
Las Vegas travel advice
Hotel Preferences
According to forum posts, the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas is highly recommended for its luxurious feel and quality furnishings. Travelers have called out its excellent restaurants and pool experience, though some prefer the pool complex at the adjacent Wynn. The Cosmopolitan is favored for its modern rooms with balconies offering stunning views, making it a romantic choice.
Location and Accessibility
For many users, the location of a hotel on the Las Vegas Strip is crucial. The Encore, while offering a more secluded feel, is slightly off-center but still within walking distance to major attractions. The Cosmopolitan and Aria, located centrally on the Strip, provide easier access to various entertainment and dining options.
Room and Service Quality
Some travelers said that Aria Sky Suites offer exceptional service and amenities, with a great location. However, it's noted that not every room at the Cosmopolitan has a balcony, so booking the right room is key. The Encore provides spacious rooms and is considered to have some of the best service on the Strip.
Alternative Options
For those looking for a new experience, some users suggest waiting for the opening of Resorts World, which might offer new luxury accommodations and services once operational.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Outdoor Activities
According to forum posts, travelers recommend visiting natural attractions around Las Vegas such as Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Lake Mead. These sites offer opportunities for hiking and enjoying the desert landscape. Additionally, the Hoover Dam is mentioned as a must-see for its historical and engineering significance.
Shows and Entertainment
Many users suggest attending various shows, with Cirque du Soleil performances, particularly O and Love, being highly recommended. The Neon Museum, offering a night tour that includes illuminated vintage signs and Las Vegas history, is also a popular choice.
Gambling and Casino Experiences
For those interested in casino activities, users have shared that exploring the casinos on the Strip is a quintessential Las Vegas experience. Midweek visits might offer lower table minimums for games like blackjack, especially at places off the main Strip such as Ellis Island.
Unique Experiences
Travelers have called out specific experiences like the High Roller observation wheel for panoramic views of the city, and the Bellagio Conservatory for its stunning floral displays and seasonal decorations. Additionally, Fremont Street is noted for its unique atmosphere and Viva Vision light show, providing a different vibe from the Strip.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Unique Dining Concepts
Some travelers have highlighted unique dining experiences in Las Vegas, such as BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark, where guests dine in total darkness, and The X Pot at Venetian's Grand Canal Shoppes, known for its creative use of light presentations. Additionally, é by José Andrés offers a unique setting where only 9 guests can dine at a time with food plated right in front of them.
Interactive Culinary Experiences
According to forum posts, restaurants like Krug Chef's Table at Restaurant Guy Savoy provide an interactive experience by allowing diners to eat in the gourmet kitchen and observe the kitchen staff at work. Similarly, 888 Korean BBQ in Chinatown offers an interactive dining setup where guests cook their own meat on grills embedded in their tables.
Themed Dining
Travelers have called out The Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio for its combination of live music and performers on Friday and Saturday nights, enhancing the dining experience. Another mention is Dick’s Last Resort at Excalibur, known for its playful staff and unusual menu items like alligator.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Popular Hotels for Photo Trivia
According to forum posts, popular Las Vegas hotels featured in photo trivia challenges include the Venetian, Cosmopolitan, and Bellagio. These iconic locations are frequently identified by forum participants, highlighting their distinct architectural and interior features.
Downtown and Off-Strip Locations
Travelers have also identified off-Strip and downtown properties in photo trivia games, such as the Fremont, El Cortez, and the Golden Nugget. These locations are noted for their unique charm and historical significance, making them interesting subjects for photo trivia.
Other Notable Mentions
Some travelers said that newer properties like Resorts World and the Circa are becoming popular in photo trivia due to their modern aesthetic and recent addition to the Las Vegas skyline.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Online Resources
According to forum posts, historical photos of Las Vegas can be found on various online platforms that feature user-submitted trivia games and photo challenges. These platforms often have themed photo trivia games where users guess the locations shown in old Las Vegas photos.
Physical Locations
Some travelers mentioned that historical Las Vegas photos might be displayed in local museums or archives. While specific museums aren't named in the forum posts, institutions like the Neon Museum, which preserves old Vegas signage and has a gallery, are likely spots to find such photographs.
Community Forums
For those interested in more interactive experiences, joining travel forums or local history groups online is suggested by users. These forums occasionally host photo trivia games where historical images of Las Vegas are shared, discussed, and identified by community members.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Bus Services
According to forum posts, Las Vegas offers several bus services including the Deuce, which operates 24/7, and the SDX buses, which have fewer stops and are quicker. For tourists, the RTC offers a 24-hour pass for $8 and a 72-hour pass for $20, valid on any RTC bus in Clark County.
Monorail and Trams
Some travelers mentioned the Las Vegas Monorail and free trams between selected resorts for convenient Strip travel. However, it is noted that the Monorail might not be easily accessible from all locations.
Specialized Bus Services
For specific destinations like the airport, the CX RTC Bus is recommended for its express service with very few stops, costing $2 or $1 for seniors. Additionally, the WAX bus provides an efficient route to and from the airport with minimal stops, suitable for those staying near the Fremont area.
Online Resources
Travelers have called out the RTC's official website for comprehensive schedules, maps, and fare information, which can be accessed at https://www.rtcsnv.com/ways-to-travel/fares-passes/.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Family-Friendly Accommodation Options
According to forum posts, many travelers recommend the Excalibur for families, highlighting its kid-friendly pool and arcade. The Mandalay Bay is also favored for its extensive pool complex, which includes a wave pool and a lazy river, making it ideal for children.
Suite and Quiet Options
For those seeking quieter, more upscale family accommodations, the Four Seasons offers a more secluded experience with access to Mandalay Bay's amenities. The Delano is another recommended option, providing true suites suitable for families who need more space and prefer a non-gaming environment.
Off-Strip Recommendations
For families looking to stay off the Strip, places like the Hilton Grand Vacations and Marriott Grand Chateau are suggested. These properties offer a more relaxed atmosphere and are equipped with family-friendly amenities like kitchens and separate living areas.
Entertainment and Proximity
Some travelers have called out specific hotels for their proximity to family-oriented attractions. The NYNY is popular for its roller coaster and arcade, while the MGM Grand is noted for its large pool and nearby kid-friendly attractions such as M&M World.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Blackjack Variants and Locations
According to forum posts, several casinos in Las Vegas offer different variants of Blackjack. For instance, FreeBet Blackjack is available at Cromwell, Flamingo, and Bally's. Blackjack Switch is offered by Binion's, Four Queens, Wynn, and Encore. For those interested in electronic table games with live dealers, locations include Venetian, MGM Grand, Bellagio, Planet Hollywood, and Linq.
Table Minimums and Game Rules
Travelers have noted that finding $10 Blackjack tables with favorable 3:2 payouts is challenging on the Strip, but Treasure Island (TI) offers such tables. Ellis Island, a smaller casino, offers $5 Blackjack tables with 3:2 payouts. For lower minimums, Downtown Grand has been mentioned for its $1 Blackjack table, though the payout rules at this low stake may vary.
Availability and Accessibility
Many users have highlighted that the availability of certain Blackjack games can depend on the casinos' staffing and operational adjustments, which may affect game offerings. It's advisable to check directly with the casinos for the most current game availability and table minimums.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?