If you’ve read any of my bio, you know that work and pleasure has me spending a ton of time in Las Vegas. After a few years of doing this, many of my friends call me a local.
That said, it’s only proper that I share everything I’ve come to know about Las Vegas in this complete guide. Of course, your tastes may vary, but for the people looking for real, raw data on what to do, how things work, and where to spend your free time, this page will always be updated with the latest and greatest information as I experience it first hand.
Consider me your personal concierge service. Everything starts here. Whether you are a baller on a budget, or a Vegas Whale, a little local information never hurt anybody.
The information being created, the reviews being published, and the deals we’re able to hack into, should be illegal. But – they aren’t. They are just simply being broadcast here so you can easily digest them and enjoy them.
This content will always be current and updated frequently. I plan on doing many updates while actually relaxing and eating the best bowl of Pho in town.
How to Navigate Las Vegas, Nevada
Getting Around.
The first thing you should know about Sin City is that you can Uber or Lyft just about anywhere. Gone are the days of dealing with the ridiculous taxi fares and their idiotic taxes. I remember in the early 2000’s until about 2013 when I’d pay around $20 for a ride yet somehow the fees ascended the fare to $27-30. Like, thanks. As if the one armed bandits (slots) aren’t hard enough to beat, I’ve gotta get beat by taxi taxes.
So, I’m happy to report that everyone who is into the ride-share life is in for a treat. You can easily get a ride anywhere on or off the strip and many hotels and casino’s have dedicated pick up spots.
Getting Rewarded.
If you are into casino gaming, this is for you. If not, continue scrolling down.
Whenever you put your hard earned money into a machine or sit down at a table game, make sure to use a loyalty card. This tracks your play and whether you win, lose, or draw, this is a good thing. The casino’s want you to be there no matter how you perform, and the more you play, the more they will reward you. Everything will range depending on your time spent playing, but there is no issue offering you stuff like the below:
- Comped or discounted rooms
- Access to events such as concerts and shows
- VIP Access to dining
- Reduced prices on food and beverage
- Comped food and beverage
- Invites to slot and blackjack tournaments
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. I haven’t paid for a room at Wynn Resorts in over ten years. That’s my main high stakes casino and where I play when I am doing any high limit gambling and want to be in a posh environment around other high rollers and people who aren’t likely to steal your cell phone if you leave it unattended at a table. (I’ve done that, and it was turned into Wynn Security. You won’t be so lucky at other casinos that may be a little more on the rough side.) You’ll see some celebs at places like Wynn and Encore. There are all sorts of famous Vegas personalities you’ll have better odds of running into, if that’s your type of thing.
- Related – list of high roller rooms in Vegas.
Now, as far as local casinos, my loyalty resides with the Station Casinos. They offer many ways to earn bonus points and I find that they offer a lot in terms of stuff to do at their casinos other than gamble. Red Rock is located in Summerlin, which most Vegas locals decide to reside in. It’s the most upscale side of Las Vegas and it offers a life away from the strip that can be comparable to any suburb of any Major US City. Think of all the chain restaurants that exist, surrounded by mountains on one side, and the strip on the other. That’s Summerlin.
The Red Rock Resort & Casino has a solid offering of restaurants. TBones is my favorite, mostly because I’m a steak guy.
I’ll have a full write-up on the Station Casino brands soon. There are many of them spread out throughout Nevada. Red Rock is convenient and is perfect for families as they have a bowling alley, movie theater, and much more. Full review will be coming soon.
Of course, the Palace Station is yet another Station Casino, and it’s an oldie but goodie. Their oyster bar is the best in the City, and if you visit, you’ll see why there is always a line. I’ve waited two hours to get a spot at the quaint bar. Yep, you read that correctly.
So again, make sure you get a card and get your play tracked. While you may lose money gambling, you’ll at least get some offers back in the form of comped visits, meals, or other value adds.
I’ll soon have overviews of all of the Las Vegas Loyalty Programs for Casino Gamblers. Check out the links below for more information.
Please check back soon, I’m completing my guide. I’ll have restaurant reviews and much, much more.
Accommodations in Las Vegas
Whether you are a budget traveler, or a high roller looking for luxury, Las Vegas has something for you.
Where to Eat in Las Vegas
Foodies, unite. This City has no shortage of food options. You’ll find everything from food for the health nuts, all the way to the appropriately named Heart Attack Grill.
For starters, check out where to eat Brunch in Las Vegas.
As we progress, you’ll see a plethora of Las Vegas restaurant reviews you can peruse and enjoy. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and trust me, we’re out there eating quite a bit so we anticipate the Vegas restaurant review count to grow rapidly.
Gay Las Vegas
Thanks to some locals, we got a roundup of gay bars in Las Vegas.