How to Experience Las Vegas Like a Local
Staying on the Las Vegas Strip is what every newcomer does. They stick to that perimeter, never knowing what’s beyond it.
For those who’ve been to Vegas a few times, you’re probably wondering what else is around the corner—aside from casinos. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot more to Vegas than the famous Strip.
Who knows of these special, hole-in-the-wall places? Locals!
Head to Fremont East
Fremont East differs from the well-known Fremont Street Experience. It’s a place for people to get to know local business owners and artists better.
Pedestrian friendly, there are six blocks to walk that’s lined with local businesses, bars, and a historic casino. Think of this as the more affordable side of Vegas (no wonder why the locals go here).
Bars thrive on offering cheaply priced drinks with good food. Restaurants range from BBQ joints to traditional sushi eateries. They’re focused on making you feel like a part of the community.
When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of live shows happening throughout the day. If that isn’t your thing, check out one of the many art galleries.
Check Out Vegas Nature
Photo Credit: Mount Charleston
You wouldn’t think much of it but Las Vegas is full of beautiful sights. Ones that are natural too!
For starters, visit Mount Charleston. 45 minutes outside of the city is where you’ll find it. It’s home to hiking, camping, and skiing in the winter.
With temperatures usually 20 to 30 degrees cooler, it’s an ideal spot for family fun, even in the summertime. Its green pastures make you think you’re in another state, not surrounded by the desert.
One place to put on your bucket list is Lee Canyon. It’s a winter wonderland during cooler seasons but for when it warms up outside, there are plenty of beautiful trails to hike.
Dine at Locally-owned Restaurants
While casino buffets and their fancy cafes are aplenty, you can still get delicious food off the Strip. There are many mom and pop places along with locally-owned restaurants waiting for you to try them.
Blueberry Hill has been family-owned and operated for more than 50 years. They have a diverse menu but their most popular dishes are their French Toast and Eggs Benedict.
Honey Salt is located in Summerlin, just 15 minutes away from the Strip. Its menu is full of farm-to-table cuisine; they use fresh, seasonal ingredients from local sources to craft their signature dishes like the Biloxi Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich and Gramma Rosie’s Meatballs.
Next time you’re wondering where to eat, choose local. You’ll get the best bang for your buck while supporting the local crowd.
Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride
For those wanting to take full advantage of their time in Sin City, the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam need to be on your to-do list. But how can you experience both of them in one day?
By taking a scenic ride in a helicopter!
You’ll fly over the Hoover Dam, getting a bird’s-eye view of Lake Mead. From there, you’ll make your way to the Grand Canyon. You’ll land 4,000 feet below the rim where you’ll be set off on your own to explore and enjoy a picnic.
To wrap it up, on your way back, you’ll look over the Las Vegas Strip at night, seeing every casino lit up.
Shop Vintage
There’s plenty of antiques and vintage clothes to be found Downtown. No matter your tastes, vintage shopping will easily become your new favorite pastime as you’ll never know what you’ll find!
See a Work of Art
Out in the desert, about ten miles south of Vegas is a beautiful art installation by renowned artist Ugo Rondinone. His creation, named Seven Magic Mountains, is comprised of seven towers made from neon-painted boulders.
It opened in May of 2016 and has been a success ever since. It was only supposed to remain on view for two years. Because so many make it a point to visit (as you should too), the art has been issued an extension, meaning, it’ll be on display through the end of 2021.
Explore Lake Mead
When temperatures hit well past 100 degrees in the summer, you need a fun way to cool down. Rather than hit the hotel’s pool or go to a water park, head to Lake Mead instead.
It’s the world’s largest man-made lake that lies on the Colorado river. It’s ideal for boating and kayaking with plenty of alcoves and areas suited for picnicking. There’s a marina where you can rent boats plus everything needed to stay safe on the water.
Zipline in the Desert
Half an hour from the Strip is Boulder City. There lies Bootleg Canyon, a fun ziplining experience where you soar through the desert.
It takes two hours, starting with a van ride which leads you to the base of a mountain which you’ll then hike. Once you reach the top of Red Mountain, you’ll zipline back down, reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
This activity is definitely for those looking for variety. There’s a hike, ziplining and sightseeing involved. However, it’s not for the faint of heart.
Experience Vegas Like a Local
The best places to see and experience are ones off the beaten path. While the Las Vegas Strip has plenty to offer, exploring passed its perimeter will open your eyes to a different, exciting world.
I have been to Vegas 4 times between 2009 and 2011. This year i will make it a point to see some of the spots you show here.
Awesome! Enjoy!!