Las Vegas Neighborhoods Guide - Where to Go & What to Visit for Tourists

Everyone thinks of the Strip when they imagine a trip to Las Vegas, but what if you want to expand your horizons? Do you even know the names of any other neighborhoods? To help out first-time travelers to Las Vegas, we’ve put together a quick guide to major neighborhoods in Las Vegas and areas of interest for visitors. Our experts have highlighted the major activities and top attractions in each neighborhood to help you plan your ideal vacation itinerary.

The Las Vegas Strip/North Las Vegas Strip

This is where most travelers to Las Vegas spend the bulk of their time. With casinos stretching from the ultra modern to those mimicking historical spaces, tons of delicious restaurants and oodles of shopping options, this deserves its nickname of “adult playground.”

Things to Do in the Las Vegas Strip / North Las Vegas Strip

Play a few hands or try the slots at a local casino.
Eat at any of the amazing restaurants in the region, including the popular buffets.
Hit up a dance club with your friends or partner for a night on the town.
Head to the top of the Stratosphere Observation Deck for great views, and fun additional attractions.
Shop ‘til you drop! You’ll never run out of stores to explore here.
Hop on a city bus tour to get oriented and to see all the major highlights of the city.
Take in a show, like the incredibly popular “V - The Ultimate Variety Show.”
Try a ride on the fun monorail for a unique experience.

South Las Vegas Strip

Photo credit: Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Although it’s all technically part of the same area, the South Las Vegas Strip has enough character and vibe to be its own category. Filled with more non-casino or shopping attractions than its counterpart, it’s a great family destination.

Things to Do in the South Las Vegas Strip

Find more show options here, ranging from side-splitting comedy to astonishing magic acts.
Take a romantic and exciting nighttime helicopter ride over the Las Vegas Strip for unbeatable views and an unforgettable experience.
Visit Madame Tussauds Las Vegas for a chance to “meet” celebrities from Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and around the world.
Visit the LINQ for shopping, dining, and for the amazing views you’ll find from the High Roller Observation Wheel.
Pop into Planet Hollywood for a family-friendly meal -- at a discount with the Go Las Vegas Card!
Fans of procedural crime shows won’t want to miss “CSI: The Experience.”

Downtown

By Antoine Taveneaux (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Organized around Fremont Street, this neighborhood is about a mile north of the Strip and encompasses an up-and-coming artsy district in addition to some older Vegas icons.

Things to Do in Downtown Las Vegas

Snap a photo of “Vegas Vic,” the famous neon cowboy sign.
Enjoy an hour or two at the infamous Mob Museum for an in-depth look at how organized crime has shaped American history and culture.
Take a walking tour of Fremont Street to really get a feel for the neighborhood.
Stop by the Neon Museum for a truly unique museum experience.
Visit any one of Las Vegas’ best bars for a fun night out.
Shop the Las Vegas Premium Outlets for an unbeatable afternoon for bargain hunters.
Check out our post on things to do at Las Vegas' Container Park.

Summerlin

On the western edge of Las Vegas, Summerlin is primarily residential but also encompasses a number of hiking and biking trails, tons of parks, and golf courses galore.

Things to Do in Summerlin

Rent a bike and pedal the many wonderful trails in this neighborhood.
Pack a picnic and head to a park.
Angel Park includes both open park space and fun golf opportunities.
Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant with equally good food and lower prices than what you’ll find elsewhere.
Head a little bit farther out to reach the wonderful Red Rock Canyon National Recreation Area.

Henderson

Technically its own city located on the southeast edge of Las Vegas, Henderson (also known as Green Valley in places) is nevertheless an important part of Las Vegas culture with its attractions and lodging options.

Things to Do in Henderson

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory.
Marvel at nature in the famous Cactus Garden.
Stroll historic Water Street for a rare small-town experience in Vegas.
Check out a local events calendar to take advantage of frequent street festivals, art shows, and more.
Explore the region's history at the Clark County Museum.
Take a short drive to the gorgeous Lake Mead National Recreation Area for everything from biking to fishing and beyond.

Day Trip Distance

Drive for an hour or so away from Las Vegas to reach some amazing country and gorgeous sites to explore. Nature lovers won’t want to miss out on a day trip from Las Vegas for at least part of their vacation.

Things to Do on a Day Trip From Las Vegas

Visit the one-of-a-kind Grand Canyon, and tour the iconic South Rim for unparalleled vistas.
While you’re there, be sure to embark on a hike, too. Whether you want to go on a guided excursion or feel comfortable heading out on your own, there are plenty of options.
Take a tour of the singular Hoover Dam and learn all about this architectural marvel.
Hop aboard a helicopter tour and head out to one of these amazing sites (tours also often depart from Vegas!)
Go all in on a rafting adventure down the Colorado River. Sometimes these tours can be combined with jeep excursions and helicopter flights, so if you've got a hefty budget and a lot of time, consider one of these comprehensive, all-day tours.

Save on Attraction Admission in Las Vegas Neighborhoods

While we certainly hope that you do enjoy a little bit of time on the Las Vegas Strip, as you can see there is so much more to this diverse city. Explore outside the box with a Las Vegas attractions pass, which can help you save up to 60% on combined admission prices versus paying at the gate. Many of the attractions, excursions, and activities mentioned in this post are included attraction options on the Go Las Vegas Pass, so be sure to check it out and save!

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