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Las Vegas is a huge, sprawling city with endless things to see and do. Many first-time visitors assume that The Strip is the epicenter of the city, and that might be true if you’re looking to hang out in mega-resorts and multi-floor clubs. However, practically every square foot of the city offers a unique experience just waiting to be explored. Read on for our guide to the best place to stay in Las Vegas.
The Strip for First-Time Visitors
Highlights: The LINQ, nightclubs, Bellagio Fountains show, replica Eiffel Tower
When most people think of Sin City, they think of the Las Vegas Strip. It’s all about the incredible and over-the-top neon lights, sprawling hotel & casino complexes, and parties that take revelers into the early hours of the morning.
The mid-to-south section is where most of the action happens — from the biggest and best casinos and resorts to high-end shopping and dining. Staying here will put you within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions, including The LINQ and its High Roller observation wheel, the Bellagio Fountains show, and some of the hottest nightclubs in Sin City.
Many of the best hotels are found on The Strip, so you’ll be spoiled for choice if you choose to stay here. Four and five-star hotels in this area include Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, Mirage, and the Italian-themed Palazzo at The Venetian Resort. These stunning resorts go beyond free WiFi and flexible check-in when it comes to the amenities on offer and include multiple swimming pools, fine dining restaurants, and some of the best shopping in the city.
For one of the most lavish A-list experiences on The Strip, book one of the Virgin Hotel by the Curio Collection. If you’re looking for something more low-key and budget-friendly, check out the Aria Resort and Casino instead. Other popular choices include the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and the Hilton.
Downtown for a Classic Las Vegas Experience
Highlights: Fremont Street Experience, Slotzilla Zipline, Viva Vision Canopy, bar-hopping
Downtown Las Vegas is north of The Strip and is thought by most to be the city center and the heart of Vegas. This area is authentic, steeped in history, and where you’ll find yourself partying shoulder-to-shoulder with locals.
The area is divided into various districts, and the Fremont Street Experience is where most tourists will head to. This five-block pedestrianized area is home to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Slotzilla zipline and the record-breaking LED light canopy that covers the area. There are also numerous casinos, endless live entertainment, and lots of places to eat and drink.
Fremont East is the district for bar-hopping, and the Arts District is an emerging area with great second-hand shopping and a growing gastronomy scene. Make sure you spare an hour or two to visit the Neon Museum, where visitors can wander among vintage neon signage that gives a glimpse into the bright history of Sin City. Hip bars in this area, like the Velveteen Rabbit and ReBar, will make you feel a million miles from The Strip itself.
There are plenty of accommodation options available Downtown, and you’ll find rooms for every budget. For a taste of old-school Sin City, check out the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino — this was the first Las Vegas hotel & casino. Circa Resort & Casino is a new, adult-only hotel renowned for its wild pool parties, so don’t expect a relaxing vacation here. The Downtown Grand Hotel is another great option in the city center.
South Strip for Easy Access to the Best Entertainment
Highlights: Cirque Du Soleil, The Mob Museum, T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas sign
The south end of The Strip is where a lot of the city’s best entertainment happens, so it makes a good base for visitors who are planning to see some of Vegas’ legendary shows.
The MGM Grand has a jam-packed entertainment schedule, including music, comedy, and the world-famous Cirque Du Soleil show. The T-Mobile Arena is where sporting events and concerts are held throughout the year. Fans of live music will love the classic piano bars that are dotted around this area and offer enchanting live music on a nightly basis. The famous Las Vegas sign is also a short walk away and is an essential selfie spot.
There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in the South Strip area. Park MGM prides itself on being eco-friendly and is right across from the T-Mobile Arena. New York New York Hotel is a classic choice — the replica of the Statue of Liberty and a rollercoaster that runs through the hotel grounds are key selling points for visitors looking for a unique stay!
Other luxurious hotel options include the Waldorf Astoria, Marriot’s Grand Chateau, and the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino is a top pick for more modest budgets.
North Strip for Exploring Downtown
Highlights: The STRAT, wedding chapels, luxury shopping, dive bar karaoke
The north-most section of The Strip can feel a little disconnected from the action, but there’s still plenty to see and do if you know where to look.
The STRAT is located in this part of town and is a hub of entertainment. Enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the tower’s bars and restaurants, or get the adrenalin flowing on one of its four high-flying rides — the choice is yours! This spot also provides easy access to the Downtown area which reveals a whole different side of Vegas.
Expect wedding chapels next door to pawn shops, but also some of the best dive bar karaoke at Dino’s and the much-loved Golden Steer Steakhouse.
For luxury accommodation at the north end of The Strip, check out Wynn Las Vegas and the Encore resort. This spot not only offers plush suites but also has an array of designer stores on-site, including Hermes and Balmain. Resorts World is another great option and has a huge outdoor pool area, some superb restaurants, and even some hidden bars.
East of The Strip for Affordable Prices
Highlights: University of Nevada, Pinball Hall of Fame, Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory, LGBTQ+ nightlife
If you’re looking for an affordable yet central area to stay in during your visit to Vegas, east of The Strip is a great bet. This area is home to the University of Nevada as well as popular tourist spots, including Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory and the Pinball Hall of Fame. East of The Strip has a great selection of museums, including the National Atomic Testing Museum, and access to the Hoover Dam is also convenient from this location.
Families traveling with children will appreciate the quieter vibe that the neighborhood has to offer, but if you’re there to party, you won’t be disappointed — this part of town has some of the best LGBTQ+ nightlife as well as some lively college bars.
Accommodation east of The Strip is broadly much cheaper than other parts of the city. And, while you might not find luxe resort & casino complexes, you’ll get much better deals and should dodge the resort fees associated with Las Vegas hotels on The Strip itself.
West of The Strip for Families
Highlights: Nevada State Museum, Springs Preserve, Masquerade Village shopping mall
Head west of The Strip and you’ll find residential neighborhoods in abundance, making it a great pick for families looking for some peace and quiet. That being said, there’s still plenty to do here for visitors of all ages.
Guests staying in the west of the city should make time to visit the Nevada State Museum, where you can learn all about the cultural heritage of this iconic city. For visitors wanting to shop ‘til they drop, the Masquerade Village shopping mall has you covered. And, for true tranquility, Springs Preserve is easily accessible and the perfect place for some R&R.
The hotels in the west of the city are modestly priced for the most part, but there are plenty of luxurious hotel rooms available here, too.
Chinatown for Cuisine and Culture
Highlights: Chinatown Plaza, Asian dining, Las Vegas Little Theater
Chinatown runs for two miles along Spring Mountain Road and is a hub of culture and cuisine. At the heart of the district is Chinatown Plaza, with its authentic gate and arresting statue.
Bring your appetite because this area is where you’ll find some of the very best Asian restaurants in the state. Favorite spots among the 150+ establishments include Raku and its popular robata grill, Monta Noodle House for hearty ramen, and Yui for high-end sushi. If European cuisine is more to your taste, Partage is also located in this part of the city and offers classic French dining.
Once you’ve finished feasting, make sure you leave time to catch a show at the Las Vegas Little Theater or grab a cocktail at Golden Tiki Lounge or Sand Dollar Blues Bar. This neighborhood is small, and accommodation is in short supply. It’s recommended to stay west of The Strip instead, where there are plenty of hotel options available.
Henderson for Peace and Quiet
Highlights: The District, nature walks, Lion Habitat Ranch, Lake Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon
As the second-largest city in Nevada, Henderson holds plenty of appeal for visitors. This residential community occupies the southeast quarter of the valley and very much feels like a part of Vegas. The Strip is just 30 minutes away by car, making it a great, family-friendly place to stay if you want to escape the crowds and relax and unwind on your vacation.
There’s plenty to do in Henderson without needing to venture into Vegas. Water Street has several casinos for visitors who want to dance with Lady Luck, and The District is a popular shopping and dining destination. There are also plenty of tranquil parks and hiking trails for fans of the great outdoors to explore. Animal lovers shouldn’t miss Lion Habitat Ranch, where you can meet more than 20 lions as well as Ozzie, the only giraffe in Nevada.
Several great luxury and midrange hotel options are available in Henderson, making it a good choice for various budgets. The M Resort is a firm favorite, and Sunset Station is a popular cheaper option.
Boulder City & Lake Mead
Highlights: Hover Dam, Lake Mead, Bootleg Canyon Zipline Park, Nevada State Railroad Museum, Hoover Dam Lodge Casino
Many tourists will head over to Boulder City for the day during their time in Vegas to experience Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, but it can be a great place to stay, too.
Located just 25 miles from Downtown Las Vegas, Boulder City is one of the few places in Nevada where casinos aren’t allowed, so it offers a totally different vacation to Sin City itself. Visitors can expect a more family-friendly atmosphere here, thanks to attractions including boating on Lake Mead, Bootleg Canyon Zipline Park, and the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
There’s an abundance of lush parkland to stroll among, and many Vegas locals themselves head here to decompress. A visit to Hoover Dam will likely feature on most itineraries, too — as one of the seven modern engineering wonders of the world, it shouldn’t be missed. If you like the sound of staying somewhere quiet but don’t want to miss an opportunity to gamble, Hoover Dam Lodge is outside the city limits and has a casino to satisfy those needs.
There are some great affordable accommodation options in Boulder City, including the Sand’s Motel and the Lake Mead Inn. The aforementioned Boulder Dam Motel is also a great choice for gambling fans.
Where Will You Stay on Your Next Trip to Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is a legendary vacation destination and there’s something for everyone in this unique city. Where you choose to stay will depend on whether you are looking to party, relax, or explore, and there are fabulous accommodation options available in every area of the city. We’re certain you’ll find your own personal slice of paradise here.
