Inside Las Vegas: Getting Around

Walking along the resort area of Las Vegas Blvd., known as the Strip, is a fun and convenient way to explore the city and get a feel for Vegas.  Many resorts are located within walking distance of each other, and each has a unique flavor that can even be enjoyed by passing by on foot.  This being stated, the sheer size of the hotels makes hoping around on foot difficult and tiring, especially when glammed up.  Given that valet parking is free at all hotels, it is worth renting a car and leaving it with the valet of each hotel that you visit.  If you do insist on walking, the following information will be of assistance to you,

Stop along the sidewalk in front of Bellagio to enjoy the impressive fountain show that runs on a regular schedule.  Other free attractions with sidewalk views include the regularly erupting volcano in front of Mirage and the pirate ship performances at the Treasure Island lagoon.

First-time visitors should be prepared for a couple local quirks when walking along the Strip.  Many vendors along the sidewalks on the Strip attempt to distribute adult material and advertisements to people passing by, but they are not intrusive and can be easily ignored, although their discarded material sometimes ends up littering the sidewalks.  Also, don’t be surprised to see people walking along the street with open containers of alcohol, often served in large and elaborate souvenir cups.  There is no legal prohibition against this sort of drinking in public in Las Vegas. 

A word of caution - cross Las Vegas Blvd. ONLY in designated pedestrian crosswalks.  There are a number of crosswalks as well as overhead pedestrian bridges and using them will make life easier for you and the drivers trying to navigate one of the busiest streets in the country.  Drivers can be aggressive and traffic can be a nightmare.  So be safe and cross the street in the areas designed for pedestrian crossing. 

In addition to walking the Strip, take a bus or cab to the downtown area, home of the famous Fremont Street Experience.  Enjoy walking the several blocks of Fremont Street between shops and casinos that lie under the overhead canopy which becomes an enormous screen for regular audio and video shows at night.

If you are staying at an off Strip hotel/casino, check and see if they have a courtesy shuttle to the Strip.  Many hotels and casinos also offer complimentary shuttles to the airport for their guests.