Walk down the Strip on a Saturday night (or really, any night) and it’s easy to feel like everyone in Las Vegas must be visiting from somewhere else. But plenty of proud locals make Sin City their home, and they want you to know that there’s more to Vegas than buffets, showgirls, and $15 cocktails.
Special thanks to the many locals at Vegas.com and MGM who shared their best Las Vegas local tips.
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Go Local
Want to blend in with locals? Don't talk about how hot and dry it is or wear a fanny pack. And check out off-Strip restaurants and casinos. You'll find great, creative food at spots like Fat Choy and Forte and looser slots at spots like the Hard Rock, Palms, and Orleans. Or even the grocery store, says one local.
Go Local
Want to blend in with locals? Don't talk about how hot and dry it is or wear a fanny pack. And check out off-Strip restaurants and casinos. You'll find great, creative food at spots like Fat Choy and Forte and looser slots at spots like the Hard Rock, Palms, and Orleans. Or even the grocery store, says one local.
Head to First Fridays
First Fridays, held in Downtown Las Vegas, are a great way to experience Las Vegas art and culture. They take place on the first Friday evening of each month.
Explore Neighborhoods
For a cool local scene beyond the Strip that still has plenty to offer visitors, check out Downtown Las Vegas and Chinatown. (Did you know Las Vegas had a Chinatown?)
Check Out the Container Park
One of my favorite Las Vegas local tips is to check out the creative and unique offerings on grand display at Downtown Container Park. This collection of shops, restaurants, bars, and performance spaces is housed in shipping containers. There's even an interactive play area for children.
Get Beyond City Limits
There's great desert beauty beyond city limits: Rent a car and explore local natural wonders such as Red Rock Canyon and the Valley of Fire. For more ideas, see 7 Best Las Vegas Day Trips.
Park for Less
Locals know that parking is abundant and mostly free, and that taxis are expensive. See where the math is leading? Whether you drive your own car there or rent one when you arrive, you'll be able to see more of the city (and likely spend less on transportation) by driving yourself between Vegas adventures.
Beware Reviews
There may be no other city on Earth as thoroughly reviewed as Vegas. And while reading other people's opinions online can be helpful, you'll be able to best create your own experience if you don't take reviews as gospel. Instead, find your own experience by asking live humans for their best Las Vegas local tips, reading about the city, and simply exploring on your own.
Stay Flexible
Be flexible with your plans. As one local put it, "It's impossible to predict what is coming next in a town like this." You'll have a lot more fun if you just expect your plans to change once you get there.
Eat Well
Are you one of those travelers who is always on a quest for the best Mexican food in any city? Locals recommend Lindo Michaocan for an authentic and delicious meal and Tacos El Gordo for a tasty and affordable late-night snack.
Moderate in Moderation
We all know Las Vegas' wild reputation, but locals encourage visitors to "stay classy" and not to do anything "you wouldn't do in your own town." But don't worry: There are endless opportunities to "respect the city and still enjoy yourself."
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More from SmarterTravel:
- What Not to do in Las Vegas
- 10 Free Things to Do in in Las Vegas
- 6 Ways to Have a Smoke-Free Las Vegas Vacation
Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
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