Beginners Guide to Vegas: Unlocking the Wonders of Sin City

Step into the sparkling glitter, vibrant energy, and glimmering lights of Sin City with this beginner's guide to Vegas. Where every corner radiates extravagance, from spectacular shows to unparalleled glamour and luxury, it's your time to shine on this inaugural trip, seizing every opportunity Las Vegas has to offer.

Here are some insider tips to make your stay as fabulous as possible.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Vegas for the First Time?

Vegas is a destination you can visit year-round, but for a successful first experience, avoid the summer heat between early June and mid-September.

During this time, get ready for some serious heat during the day, almost like being in an oven! But don't worry—the evenings are much more comfortable.

Prioritize the months of October and November, as well as March to May.

‍During the winter, expect surprisingly cold temperatures. After all, Vegas is located in the middle of the desert.

What to Expect on Your First Visit and How to Get Around?

Be prepared to walk a lot! The attractions are spread over a larger area than you might imagine.

If you prefer to avoid intensive walking, opt for a local Deuce bus pass. As a tourist, you get a 24-hour fare for just $8 and three days for $20. Simply download the app to get your ticket.

With this pass, you can visit all the must-see places in Vegas, including the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign.

"Hop on, Hop off" double-decker bus passes are also available ($55 per day), but they are significantly more expensive than the Deuce.

What Is the "Strip"?

If you have friends or acquaintances who have already visited Vegas, you have undoubtedly heard of the "Strip." It runs along Las Vegas Boulevard, stretching roughly from Sahara Avenue to Russell Road.

Walking from Mandalay Bay to the Stratosphere takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering a distance of 6.5 km.

Which Hotels to Visit in Vegas?

During your first visit, you might have trouble choosing among the many iconic hotels in Vegas. Fortunately, visits are free, so take advantage of them!

Start with the luxurious Bellagio Hotel. Its giant greenhouse, The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, transforms with the seasons and events.

Then head to Caesars Palace, where you can shop at the Forum Shops, which has upscale boutiques and more affordable options like H&M.

Extend your exploration to the stylish Wynn, owned by the renowned Steve Wynn, who is also behind Treasure Island and the Mirage.

Last but not least, make sure to visit the Venetian, inspired by Venice itself, complete with its charming canals and gondolas both indoors and out.

Which Show to See in Vegas?

A trip to Las Vegas wouldn't be complete without seeing at least one show. Tickets can be quite expensive, so consider booking in advance.

If you only catch one show, make it "O" by Cirque du Soleil. It is an extraordinary experience combining theatre and aquatic performance, featuring renowned acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and divers.

Prepare to be captivated by this legendary production!

When to Visit Old Vegas?

Exploring Downtown Las Vegas is essential for getting the full Vegas experience, with its historic casinos and vintage shops. You'll discover a different experience from the Strip, finding yourself in a retro atmosphere from Vegas's golden era.

Head to Fremont Street, an iconic place full of history and authentic charm. The key is to go there in the evening, after sunset, to truly appreciate the electrifying atmosphere and the dazzling projections on the dome that covers this street.

Insider tip: Old Vegas is the perfect place to buy souvenirs! Prices are more affordable than on the Strip, and you can save up to 60% on mugs, T-shirts, etc.

What Are the Best Restaurants for a First Time in Vegas?

Exploring the culinary scene of Las Vegas is an adventure in itself during your first visit to the city. Here are some recommendations for unforgettable dining experiences:

For breakfast: Gabi is a must-stop; ask to be seated on the terrace.

For brunch: Head to the Garden at Wynn.

For lunch: Make a stop at Eataly in Park MGM.

For dinner: Try Momofuku Asian at the Cosmopolitan or Wing Lei at the Wynn.

For a steakhouse experience (off the Strip), Head to Primal for a Game of Thrones-worthy ambiance or Golden Steer, the oldest steakhouse.

For Greek cuisine: Milos at the Venetian.

The restaurant with the best view? Lago at the Bellagio. Ask to be seated facing the fountains.

For an unparalleled variety of dishes: Head to the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace, with over 250 dishes on the menu.

What Is the Best Place to Experience the Light Show in Vegas?

Experiencing the Bellagio fountain show is simply a must for a first-time Vegas visitor. Here, thousands of water jets perform a mesmerizing dance, complemented by captivating music and stunning light effects.

These shows are free and start at 3 p.m. every 30 minutes and later every 15 minutes. The schedule may vary depending on the season and other factors. Check the schedule on the Bellagio Water Show website.

How to Enjoy a Breathtaking View of the Heart of Vegas?

You can ride on the High Roller Wheel at The LINQ hotel or, even better, climb the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel, where you can see the Bellagio water fountains from above—a magical moment.

What Are Essential Tips for First-Time Casino Players in Vegas?

You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that generally, as soon as you play at the casino, you are entitled to free drinks, including alcoholic ones (don't forget to tip).

Becoming a member (for free) of casino groups before you start playing can be a smart move, allowing you to enjoy numerous perks such as discounts on accommodations, activities, dining, and more. Keep in mind that there are several groups worth considering.

You can become a Gold Caesars Rewards member, which includes Caesars Palace, Circus Circus Reno Hotel & Casino, Horseshoe, Flamingo Las Vegas, Mirage, and Harrah's. You can visit over 50 destinations and enjoy preferential room rates, starting at $10 for members.

Then, you can join another major group, the Sapphire MGM Rewards, which includes the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Mirage, and MGM Grand.

Wynn also has its own rewards system for its members.

Remember that gambling in Vegas can be an exciting and entertaining experience, but it is important to gamble responsibly. Set a budget and never gamble with money you can't afford to lose.

If You’ve Never Been to Las Vegas, What Are You Waiting For?

While planning your trip, don't forget to get travel insurance with soNomad before your departure to the United States. Expenses for medical emergencies in the United States can be exorbitant, so don't leave this to chance.