50+ Tips & Tricks for a Fabulous Las Vegas Vacation
General tips for a smooth trip
Book show tickets in advance
Although there are a number of great Vegas shows to choose amongst, many of the more popular productions completely sell out (especially during holiday periods). Save yourself some disappointment and book your tickets online prior to your trip! Then your only hassle will be picking up your tickets at the box office.
On one occasion, I witnessed a poor couple trying to buy tickets to the Beatles Cirque du Soleil show last minute only to find that the 2 remaining tickets were located nowhere near each other. I guess they really wanted to see the show as they still bought the tickets! Imagine paying $200+ a ticket and not even be able to sit with your significant other!
For a really relaxing vacation, base all activities at your resort
Every once in a while, I like to book a Vegas trip where all activities are at the same resort. This is a truly relaxing alternative as you can cut out the hassle of pushing through crowds and hopping from casino to casino. I recommend picking a resort that has a great show you want to see as the main activity. Next, concentrate on finding fun activities at that resort (spa, restaurants, shopping, etc.). Paris hotel is one of my favorite resorts when I need a low-key vacation. They have great restaurants, a nice pool, great shows all the time, and affordable rates.
Wear comfortable shoes & clothing to explore The Strip
I recommend skipping heels in favor of comfortable walking or gym shoes. As you will be doing miles of walking, your feet will definitely thank you later on. Workout clothes, especially during the brutally hot summer season, is also recommended as there is no point in dressing up in 100+ degree weather.
Sunglasses & sunblock is a must
Year-round, you will want to pack sunglasses and sunblock as you would for any sunny destination. Getting burnt while out by the pool might leave you lying in the bed like a lobster missing out on all the fun.
Visit the Welcome to Las Vegas sign early for the best photos
As one of the most photographed spots in Vegas, the famous Welcome to Las Vegas line begins to form pretty early in the morning. By 10-11am, there will almost definitely be a full line. To avoid the lengthy wait, set your alarm early and enjoy the resulting crowd free photo opp. The sign is located south of the Mandalay Bay (5100 Las Vegas Blvd. S.).
Advice for those driving in
Avoid arriving too early on check in day & leaving too late at check out
I can’t even count the number of times I have left Vegas too late and suffered the consequences of driving hours through a dark desert while completely exhausted. It’s so hard driving at night after a few days of endless excitement. With all the adrenaline, you really don’t notice how tired you are in until you get in your car and realize you have hours of driving through pitch black scenery!
Be aware of new self parking fees
Unfortunately, almost all resorts on The Strip are now charging parking fees. This includes all MGM resorts. If you are driving into Vegas and are set on not paying for any parking, you should probably know ahead of time which casinos are still free to avoid unnecessary time driving in circles. As of early 2023, The Wynn, The Venetian, The Palazzo, Circus Circus, and Treasure Island. Most Caesars properties with the exception of the Rio also charge. If you are staying at hotels that charge, you will receive parking as part of your resort fee, however, you will need to pay again if you visit a hotel other than your resort (even if it is an MGM property).
Shows & attractions to skip
Terry Fator show – Highly rated, although myself and others I know were a bit disappointed. Lots of singing, not enough puppets. While Terry is an amazing Ventriloquist, too much of his show focused on his signing which was unfortunately just average.
The Rio Buffet – Tried it out because it is rated one of the best buffets in the city. Rio was one of the worst buffets I have ever tried, not to mention way overpriced for the quality. If you are looking for a budget buffet with a decent selection, The Palms is the way to go. Mid price, The Mirage is great. For more of a fine dining experience, The Wynn, Aria, Bellagio, and Caesars Palace are all wonderful options.
