Las Vegas is known as Sin City. That’s primarily because you can indulge in just about any desire or vice in a town known for luxury and glamor. But some potential visitors may be concerned that the “sinning” could extend to unsavory and unsafe risks to themselves or their loved ones once the sun goes down.
So is there any reason to worry about a night out in Las Vegas? Let’s take a closer look.
About Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a desert city in the state of Nevada in the southwestern United States. It’s the Silver State’s largest city with nearly 650,000 residents, anchoring a metro area home to the vast majority of the state’s population.
It’s best known as a modern-day gambling, entertainment, and vacation destination. But it traces its roots back to a railroad that ran through the area in the early 20th century.
Development exploded once Nevada legalized casino gambling in 1931. Casinos and their associated attractions, shows, and acts have ruled the area ever since.
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Las Vegas is a big city with bright lights, but it still lands on our list of The Most Un-Scenic Camping Destinations in America.
Why Is Las Vegas Famous?
There’s no doubt about it — Las Vegas is a party town. The city is world-famous for providing visitors with the ability to indulge in pretty much any way they could imagine. This includes luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, any kind of gambling you can imagine, and so much more.
Naturally, the city’s casinos are the biggest business, drawing high-rollers and penny slot players from near and far to try their luck. Sportsbooks also offer opportunities to bet on that big game or spend a few bucks on your favorite team.
Of course, these casinos are within some of the world’s most luxurious and distinctive hotels. These include the massive black pyramid of the Luxor, the medieval castle of Excalibur, the faux-Roman look of Caesar’s Palace, or the sheer opulence of the Wynn and Bellagio.
You can marvel at the fountain show in front of the Bellagio, get your picture taken in front of a lookalike Eiffel Tower in front of Paris, or take a gondola ride through Venice.
Las Vegas shows are also one of the city’s most popular attractions. Some of the music world’s most popular entertainers regularly have Las Vegas residencies. Iconic groups like Cirque du Soleil and a variety of magicians also perform several shows per week. Aside from these regular acts, big-name tours also routinely stop at the city’s venues.
Is Vegas Safe to Walk Around at Night?
For those who plan to stay on or near the famous Las Vegas Strip, there’s little need to worry about safety. While the Strip may seem chaotic, crowded, and loud, it’s actually a relatively controlled environment.
Casinos have extensive security to help maintain order and deal with troublemakers, and city police are also stationed throughout the area. Las Vegas is also a town known for the unbelievable number of security cameras, meaning any smart criminal will likely take their business elsewhere.
However, it’s vital to remember that things can happen in large crowds filled with rowdy, often alcohol-fueled individuals. Being aware of your surroundings and exercising extra courtesy to those around you will help ensure a safe night out on the Strip.
Is Vegas Safe off the Strip?
Like any big city, there are safe and not-so-safe parts of Las Vegas once you exit the Strip area. The primary non-Strip tourist area of downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street should be considered safe places to explore.
Generally, you can be confident that an area is safe if you remain within a relatively short distance of the Strip corridor and major casinos. However, the further away you stray, the more likely the area could change.
As always, crime can happen anywhere, especially for those who make themselves easy targets. Simple awareness of your situation can go a long way toward avoiding unsafe areas.
What Should I Be Careful of in Las Vegas?
When it comes to crime, tourists are most at risk of crimes of opportunity or spur-of-the-moment situations that escalate. You can avoid both with basic care, ensuring you stay in well-populated, well-lit areas and being polite and considerate of your fellow visitors.
Of course, crime isn’t the only hazard that Vegas can potentially pose! Many people overindulge in gambling, alcohol, food, or even less savory vices. While it might be tough, a little moderation is key to keeping your fun Vegas vacation from turning into a disaster.
What Should I Do on My First Trip to Vegas?
One of the best things about Las Vegas is that, no matter what you’re into, there’s likely something for you. However, there are a few only-in-Vegas experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Most visitors should place a wager or two, even if it’s just a roll of the penny slots or a few dollars on red or black. After all, you never know!
Vegas first-timers also should plan to see a show. Most theaters are conveniently in casino hotels, and you can easily access them from the Strip. You may be able to score tickets once you arrive, but you may want to reserve them in advance for new or popular shows.
No matter where you choose to stay, you shouldn’t leave Las Vegas without strolling the Strip and exploring the dozens of themed and luxury hotels. There’s no shortage of bars, restaurants, and shopping centers for you to peruse.
Beyond these must-see items, there’s an unbelievable amount of other cool things to check out in and around Vegas. Party animals might camp out by the pool at one of the city’s famous day clubs.
Meanwhile, lovers of nature or history can head just south of town to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. There’s almost certainly more in Las Vegas to do than you can accomplish in a single trip, so a bit of planning is a necessity.
What Is the Best Month to Go to Las Vegas?
Based on its desert location, Las Vegas gets quite hot during the late spring and summer months. Temperatures routinely top 100 degrees in June, July, and August and often don’t drop much below 80 degrees overnight.
Therefore, most visitors avoid Las Vegas during this time. You’ll likely find fewer crowds and potentially better deals or more availability.
The best months to go to Las Vegas are generally October through April. Vegas’ falls and winters are mild and typically dry, making it a perfect time to experience the area. Temperatures rarely dip lower than the high 30s, with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s.
Those who like things a little warmer can plan trips during the shoulder seasons of March/April and September/October.
Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?
Las Vegas certainly isn’t for everyone. Some people may find the crowds, noise, high costs, and intense commercial experience unpleasant or even overwhelming.
To be sure, there can also be some downsides. That includes potential safety risks or other concerns from fellow visitors having a bit too much fun. And unfortunately, a significant portion of the city’s top attractions are unavailable to those under 21.
For many, however, Las Vegas is the vacation of a lifetime. It’s the chance to cut loose, have fun, and indulge a bit in a city where the party never ends. Even those who prefer a more relaxed experience can find plenty to do in nearby state parks or the city’s many spas and salons.
There’s simply nowhere else in the world quite like it. The best way to find out if Las Vegas is your kind of town is to roll the dice and plan a visit. You may find you’ve hit the vacation jackpot!
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