Las Vegas, NV

Best time to visit Las Vegas

• Spring (March to May): The pleasantly warm weather makes spring one of the best times to visit Las Vegas and explore its breathtaking scenery.
• Summer (June to August): Strong sun and high temperatures, but Las Vegas in summer has loads of indoor attractions (plus AC) and fewer visitors.
• Fall (September to November): Another popular time to visit Las Vegas, with good weather and beloved events like Downtown Brew Festival.
• Winter (December to February): Enjoy holidays in the desert, winter sports nearby and quieter casinos and hotels.

How many days to spend in Las Vegas

Three days is enough time to hit the iconic Las Vegas highlights on the Strip. With four days or more, head to downtown and the Arts District. In a week, add a day trip to Valley of Fire or Lake Mead, or explore other treasures of the National Park System further afield.

The vibe of Las Vegas

Visitors are drawn to Las Vegas for its zest for life and open-hearted spirit. Whether you’re a high roller looking for luxury or an outdoorsy thrill seeker looking for a rock climbing challenge, Las Vegas will bring your dreams to life. This rapidly growing city is constantly changing, with eclectic art installations, exciting new attractions and a constant influx of new residents. At the same time, Las Vegas loves to celebrate its kitschy past. Mascots of Old Vegas, such as the 40-foot (12-meter) neon cowboy, “Vegas Vic,” welcome visitors and new residents alike to enjoy their time in one of the brightest places on Earth.

What is Las Vegas famous for?

Roll the dice and spin the roulette wheel: Las Vegas casinos have been famous since the early 20th century. Las Vegas earned the nickname “Sin City” for illegal gambling and other shady business. Gambling was legalized in Nevada in 1931, and after World War II, Las Vegas blossomed as a glamorous destination, hosting entertainers like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. Las Vegas has starred in many Hollywood blockbusters, including Casino (1995) and Ocean’s 11 (1960). Uncover the city’s sordid secrets at the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, also known as The Mob Museum. Vegas today showcases all forms of entertainment, including professional sports teams such as the Golden Knights (NHL), the Raiders (NFL) and the Aces (WNBA).

Events in Las Vegas

As well as boasting a dynamic lineup of resort performers and residencies, Las Vegas events draw millions of visitors to the city. Feel the music at festivals such as the iHeartRadio Music Festival in September. Electric Daisy Carnival in May is an EDM blowout, while October’s When We Were Young Music Festival is a pop-punk bash. For racing fans, Las Vegas Motor Speedway hosts the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix (November) and NASCAR, then turns festive for the Glittering Lights holiday event from November to January. Life is Beautiful (September) and Las Vegas Pride Weekend (October) show off Downtown Las Vegas at its quirky, big-hearted best.

Food in Las Vegas

Food in Las Vegas echoes the vibes of the city itself: an eclectic mix of luxury, innovation and Americana kitsch. Steakhouses, red-sauce Italian and buffets make for time-honored Las Vegas dining. Many Old Vegas mainstays, such as the city’s oldest steakhouse, The Golden Steer, still dazzle today. Resorts host some of Vegas’ best restaurants. Indulge your senses with luxurious dishes in opulent surroundings, dig into a new concept from a celebrity chef, or try Vegas outposts of New York and Los Angeles favorites. Grab innovative burgers, gourmet pizzas and other twists on casual American classics near Fremont Street, or try Chinatown for award-winning Asian cuisine, modern takes on fine dining and creative cocktails.

Nightlife in Las Vegas

Nightlife in Las Vegas starts early and goes late. But with so much going on, from spectacular live entertainment to sophisticated cocktail lounges, you’ll want to make every moment count. Start with a magic show, Cirque du Soleil performance or live music at one of the city’s many performance spaces. Some beloved acts have been running for years, but new performances debut all the time. Get glam at a nightclub or barhop through the Fremont East Entertainment District. End the night at a late-night restaurant or a retro-cool 24-hour tiki lounge.

Shopping in Las Vegas

Whether you’re looking to splurge on luxury fashion or hunt for vintage treasures, you’re sure to find something you love at one of Las Vegas’ many shopping centers and boutiques. On the Strip, window shop along Venetian canals, or pamper yourself with a luxury shopping spree at The Shops at Crystals. Outdoor shopping malls like Town Square Las Vegas and Container Park combine popular retailers and boutiques with trendy restaurants and entertainment. Hit up the 18b Arts District for antique and vintage shopping, plus unique fine arts and crafts. Browse wares from more than 20 vendors along Antique Alley and hunt for original Vegas kitsch.