A First-Timer’s Guide to Las Vegas: What to Know Before You Go
A practical, first-time visitor’s guide to Las Vegas—how the Strip works, where to stay, what to expect, and how to enjoy the city without overwhelm.
Las Vegas Guides
Practical, experience-based guides to planning a trip to Las Vegas. If this is your first visit, start with the first section below.
Start Here
If this is your first trip to Las Vegas, begin with these guides.
Tips to Survive Your First Trip to Las Vegas
Practical, first-time advice for navigating Las Vegas—what to expect, what to avoid, and how to enjoy the city without burning out.
What Not to Do on Your First Vegas Trip
Common first-time Vegas mistakes to avoid—from walking distances and hotel choice to pacing, shows, and overstimulation.
Planning & Logistics
Practical guides that help you make better decisions before and during your trip.
Las Vegas Transportation Guide: Monorail, Free Trams, and the Downtown Loop
A first-timer guide to Las Vegas transportation—how the monorail, free Strip trams, and Downtown Loop work, what they cost, and when they help.
What Not to Pack for Your First Trip to Las Vegas
Common packing mistakes first-time Las Vegas visitors make—and what actually matters to bring.
Special Situations
Guides for specific travel styles or circumstances.
How to Experience Las Vegas on a Tight Budget (Without Ruining the Trip)
A realistic guide to experiencing Las Vegas on a tight budget—how to manage tradeoffs, avoid regret, and enjoy the city without overspending.
Strip vs Downtown Las Vegas: First-Timer Mistakes to Avoid
A first-timer breakdown of Strip vs Downtown Las Vegas—and the common mistakes visitors make when choosing between them.
Visiting Las Vegas With Kids: What Families Should Know Before They Go
An honest guide for families considering Las Vegas—what works, what doesn’t, and how to approach the city with kids.
Seasonal & Event Guides
Guides tied to specific times of year, events, or limited-time planning opportunities.
Las Vegas Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals: Hotels, Shows & Attractions
Las Vegas Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals can offer real savings on hotels, shows, and attractions but only if you know what to expect. This guide explains how these sales work, what types of discounts are worth booking, and where to find verified Vegas deals without the hype.
Shows & Entertainment
Guides to choosing the best shows and live entertainment in Las Vegas, with a focus on value and experience.
Best Shows in Las Vegas (Worth the Money)
Vegas shows aren’t cheap, and not every production justifies its ticket price. This guide highlights the Las Vegas shows that consistently deliver real value — whether through spectacle, originality, or an experience you can’t get anywhere else.