Explore the Best Free Spots Around the STRAT Tower

Published: April 7, 2026
vegas' strat tower at dusk

Las Vegas might be famous for its dazzling casinos and jaw-dropping shows, but you don’t have to blow your budget to have an epic adventure—especially if you’re hanging out near the Tower at the STRAT. This iconic structure crowns the north end of the Strip, surrounded by quirky museums, local hangouts, and unexpected photo ops just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re mapping out a full day of fun, looking for unique places to unwind, or in search of local gems you won’t find in any guidebook, we’ve hunted down the best free things to do steps from the Tower. Stash your wallet, grab your phone (because these spots are seriously Instagram-worthy), and get ready to experience Vegas like a savvy local. 

Our favorite free things to do near the Tower at the STRAT include: 

The Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas Sign 

Street Art Along the Las Vegas Arts District 

Fremont Street Experience Light Shows 

The Little Vegas Chapel's Neon Sign Garden 

Antique Alley Mall (Browsing Only!) 

The Las Vegas Festival Grounds Murals 

Bonanza Gift Shop: The World’s Largest (Window) Shopping 

Vintage Vegas Photo Spots on The Strip North 

The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop Lineup 

Lucky Cat Art Trail at the Gateway Arches 

The Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas Sign

If you love that classic Vegas photo moment but don’t want to trek all the way to the southern edge of the Strip, hit up the Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas sign just a few blocks from the STRAT. This retro-inspired sign nails that vintage Sin City vibe, with bright bulbs and a flawless backdrop for your crew’s next great selfie. You’ll find fewer crowds here, so there’s no awkward waiting in line—just pure photo fun, night or day. 

The sign’s plaza is perfect for people-watching or plotting your next adventure. It’s also illuminated after dark, so if you stroll by in the evening, you’ll catch that neon magic that just feels so perfectly Vegas. Whether you’re a first-timer marking your spot on the map or a frequent flyer scouting new memories, snapping a shot here guarantees vacation bragging rights. 

Street Art Along the Las Vegas Arts District 

Ready to swap casino lights for creative delights? Head south from the STRAT to the 18b Las Vegas Arts District, where blocks of ever-changing street art await. Murals cover warehouses, restaurant walls, and even electrical boxes—each one splashed with colors, pop culture icons, Vegas legends, or wild desert landscapes. 

Wandering these streets feels like stepping inside a living, breathing gallery. You never know what you’ll stumble upon next—think giant dancing skeletons, Vegas showgirls, or trippy alien owls. The vibe here is laid-back, as locals and visitors alike come here to snap photos, sip coffee from indie cafés, and simply soak up the atmosphere. If you catch First Friday (the city’s monthly art block party), you’re in for bonus performances, art demos, and high-energy fun. 

Fremont Street Experience Light Shows 

Vegas wouldn’t be Vegas without an over-the-top light show, and Fremont Street delivers with its free, swirling ceiling of LED awesomeness—just a quick trip from the STRAT (walk or hop the Deuce bus). Every night, this covered pedestrian mall explodes into color as the Viva Vision canopy kicks off an hourly digital spectacular, complete with synchronized music and wow-worthy visuals. 

These light shows are a feast for the senses, blending classic rock anthems, dazzling animation, and a contagious street party buzz. The energy is electric, with street performers, costumed characters, and fellow wide-eyed visitors adding to the fun. It’s quintessential Vegas: larger-than-life, glittery, and totally unforgettable—all for zero dollars. 

The Little Vegas Chapel’s Neon Sign Garden 

Looking for a quirky, offbeat photo spot? The Little Vegas Chapel is more than just a wedding venue—it houses a sweet outdoor Neon Sign Garden, designed for photo ops and a stroll down memory lane. From wild hearts to twinkling arrows, these rescued retro signs represent Vegas style at its finest. 

You don’t need to tie the knot to enjoy the view. Most days, the garden is open for quick photos or a breezy wander. Snap a pic beside a glowing heart, read placards hinting at decades of love stories, and soak up that Vegas kitsch you won’t find in any casino lobby. If you chat with the friendly staff, chances are you’ll walk away with a fun story or two as well. 

Antique Alley Mall (Browsing Only!) 

Channel your inner treasure hunter at Antique Alley Mall, an easy walk southwest from the STRAT. More than 60 booths are packed with oddities, retro finds, vintage slot machines, concert posters, and more—a window shopper’s paradise. Entry is totally free, so you can browse to your heart’s content, marveling at the weird and wonderful history that makes Vegas tick. 

There’s always something new to see: a wall of old-school Vegas enamel pins, glittering glassware from the Rat Pack days, or that Chuck Norris novelty mug you never knew you needed. Shop owners are happy to chat, sharing tidbits about the city or the wild origins of their oddest collectibles. Whether you’re a design lover, a nostalgia fan, or just looking for a fun way to kill an hour, this place never disappoints. 

The Las Vegas Festival Grounds Murals 

You don’t need to buy a festival ticket to appreciate the bold murals encircling the Las Vegas Festival Grounds near Sahara Avenue. These huge, eye-popping works line the fence, turning a simple walk into a free outdoor gallery experience. 

Expect dynamic designs, tributes to music legends, and plenty of snap-worthy visuals to light up your socials. Kids love the cartoonish animals and space-age shapes; adults dig the pop-art references and hidden details you spot the closer you look. Snap some photos, compare favorites, and enjoy the extra splash of creativity right smack in the heart of Las Vegas. 

Bonanza Gift Shop: The World’s Largest (Window) Shopping

Bragging rights start at Bonanza Gift Shop, claimed as the “World’s Largest Gift Shop”—and you don’t need to break your souvenir budget to enjoy it. Step inside, and you’ll find a maze of neon magnets, wild t-shirts, feathered showgirl tiaras, and kitschy Vegas knickknacks as far as the eye can see. Stroll the aisles, snap a few (discreet) pics of your favorite novelty items, and challenge your travel buddies to find the wackiest trinket. 

Even if you’re just peeking, this spot gives you pure unfiltered Vegas flavor. The staff bring local flair and always seem happy to point out their weirdest finds or secret deals. If you’re looking for that “only in Vegas” energy—without spending a cent—this stop’s a must. 

Vintage Vegas Photo Spots on The Strip North 

Just a short stroll from the STRAT, the north end of the Strip is packed with hidden photo gems—old-school hotel signs, themed statues, and funky pieces of public art. The Sahara’s neon accents, the blinking lights atop nearby motels, and the playful Atomic Liquors sign deliver serious mid-century mood. 

Whether you’re recreating vintage vacation snapshots or just compiling your own album of Vegas oddities, these streets offer endless backdrops, especially as the neon kicks in after sunset. Snap solo shots, group selfies, or moody street scenes—the possibilities are as wild as your imagination. 

The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop Lineup 

Fans of reality TV will know Gold and Silver Pawn Shop from “Pawn Stars.” Even if you’re not in the mood to splurge on treasures, there’s plenty of free fun to be had outside: quirky lines of fans, bold murals, old-fashioned shop displays, and the buzz of people hoping to spot a star. 

Peer through the windows, marvel at the eclectic mix of memorabilia, and enjoy the lively, all-hours ambiance. If you time your visit right, you might even catch a camera crew filming or a classic car rolling past for an episode. It’s a unique taste of Vegas pop culture you’ll want to share with friends back home. 

Lucky Cat Art Trail at the Gateway Arches 

Just north of the STRAT, the Gateway Arches mark the “official” entrance to fabulous downtown Las Vegas, and a short walk beyond you’ll find an adorable mini art trail of Lucky Cat sculptures. Painted by local artists, these colorful cats pop up in the planter boxes and sidewalks leading into the downtown gateway. Each sculpture has its own quirky personality—some decked out in desert hues, others rocking classic casino motifs or even tributes to Vegas legends. 

Taking a stroll along the Lucky Cat Art Trail is the perfect way to enjoy a little fresh air with a dash of surprise and whimsy. Kids love spotting the variations, and adults get a kick out of the creative interpretations. Passersby often smile and snap quick selfies, so you’ll be in good company. This area is especially fun during the day when the details shine, but if you swing by at dusk, the nearby arches light up in all their neon glory for bonus ambiance. 

 

Las Vegas isn’t just about what you can spend—it’s also about what you can discover for free. Exploring around the Tower at the STRAT, you’ll find colorful murals, stylish retro signs, buzzing street scenes, and relaxing urban oases. You get all the flash and flair of Sin City while keeping your wallet as happy as your playlist. So lace up those walking shoes, keep your phone charged, and let the free side of Vegas take your trip to the next level! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to perfect Vegas mornings, and what to do outside the Strip. 

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Family-Friendly Vegas: Amazing Things to Do with Parents

Traveling with your parents in Las Vegas is a chance to see the city through fresh eyes—and make memories you’ll be talking about for years. Sure, Vegas can turn up the wild factor, but it’s also packed with activities that delight every generation. Think panoramic city views, retro magic, museums steeped in intrigue, and shows with universal wow. Whether you’re a local hosting family or planning a much-anticipated getaway, Las Vegas has something for every travel style, taste, and energy level. Ready to discover what makes the city sparkle for families? Let’s jump in.  Our favorite things to do with parents in Las Vegas include:  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  The Neon Museum  Explore Fremont Street  KA by Cirque du Soleil  The Eiffel Tower Experience  Madame Tussauds  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at The LINQ Promenade  High Roller Observation Wheel  If your parents are fans of city views—and who isn’t?—the High Roller Observation Wheel is an absolute standout. It’s the tallest observation wheel in North America, but don’t let that intimidate anyone: the enclosed pods are spacious, comfortable, and surprisingly calming. This is more than a quick spin; the whole ride lasts 30 minutes, giving everyone plenty of time to spot classic Vegas landmarks, mountain vistas, and the sparkling Strip below.  One of the best things about the High Roller is its relaxed atmosphere. Even if the Strip feels hectic, up here it’s peaceful, with gentle music and air conditioning to beat the desert heat. Plus, the slow and steady rotation means it’s perfect for all ages—no stomach-dropping surprises! For extra sparkle, go at sunset or after dark when Vegas transforms into a sea of neon.  We love how the ride sparks conversation. It’s a wonderful place to reminisce, share some family laughs, and snap photos you’ll cherish forever. Whether your family group is two or twenty, the High Roller makes everyone feel like they’re on top of the world.  The Mob Museum  For families who appreciate a good story, nothing beats the intrigue of The Mob Museum. Housed in a historic courthouse downtown, this museum explores the fascinating tales of organized crime and law enforcement in America. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be a history buff to have a blast here.  The exhibits are immersive and interactive, with everything from forensic science labs to a Prohibition-era speakeasy with its own secret entrance. Travel through the infamous days of Las Vegas’ founding, listen to real-life wiretaps, and get a close-up look at artifacts from famous cases. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance: intriguing, fun, and packed with conversation starters.  Parents tend to appreciate the museum’s detailed storytelling and unique setting, while anyone who loves quirky history will find endless nuggets to discuss afterwards. It’s a great way to mix education with a bit of Vegas drama—plus, that speakeasy serves some of the city’s best mocktails and cocktails.  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  If you’re craving a dash of culture amid the neon, step into the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. The setting inside the Bellagio Resort is all refined glamour, but the gallery itself feels warm and inviting, not intimidating. Exhibitions rotate regularly, but you’ll find masterpieces from world-renowned museums, with a mix of classic and contemporary art.  Parents tend to love the peaceful atmosphere—an oasis away from the casino buzz. The gentle lighting, uncluttered layout, and thoughtful curation means you can get up close to each painting or sculpture, pausing to share your thoughts without feeling rushed. Even reluctant art fans will find something to spark curiosity, from ancient works to mind-bending modern pieces.  The gift shop is filled with books and beautifully made souvenirs, perfect for a little keepsake dash before you’re back to exploring the Strip.  The Neon Museum  Step into Las Vegas’ luminous past at The Neon Museum. This outdoor attraction houses a treasure trove of restored neon signs from casinos, hotels, and restaurants. Walking through the “Neon Boneyard” feels like stepping onto the set of a vintage movie, with signs glowing against the desert sky in every direction.  Guided tours bring these historic artifacts to life, blending engaging anecdotes with plenty of local color. Parents are often surprised by how much history each sign carries—did you know there’s drama behind nearly every bulb? Sunrise and sunset tours are magical, but night tours are unforgettable with the signs fully illuminated.  The atmosphere is equal parts nostalgic and playful, perfect for swapping stories about old Vegas or imagining the city’s next chapter. Don’t forget to snap a family photo among the flashing lights!  Explore Fremont Street  If your parents are curious about the “other” Vegas—the one beyond the Strip—bring them straight to Fremont Street. This pedestrian zone in Downtown Las Vegas bursts with street performers, dazzling light shows overhead, vintage casinos, and live music. The Viva Vision canopy, an LED display that stretches over several blocks, pulses with energy and color all night long.  Fremont Street strikes a perfect note for families: lively, quirky, and packed with surprises, but just far enough from the Strip for a more relaxed mood. Browse for souvenirs, take in a cover band on one of the free stages, or share a round of classic shrimp cocktails at a retro casino diner. There’s energy and nostalgia in equal measure, making it easy for everyone to find something that delights.  If you’re feeling brave, just around the corner you can try the Fly LINQ zip line—rollers and adrenaline fans in the family will love soaring above the crowd!  KA by Cirque du Soleil  For a shared experience that’s both dazzling and family-friendly, KA by Cirque du Soleil is hard to match. The entire show is an adventure story brought to life with jaw-dropping acrobatics, martial arts, and spellbinding visuals. The production value is sky-high, with a rotating stage, larger-than-life puppetry, and a sweeping original score.  KA manages to be stunning without being overwhelming; the music, visuals, and performances are all perfectly paced for audiences of every age. The storyline is easy to follow—especially helpful for parents who aren’t into abstract theater—and you’ll all leave wowed by what the human body can do.  The seats offer great views from almost any angle, and the pre-show atmosphere builds excitement from the very first note. It’s a shared thrill, an artful spectacle, and a Las Vegas must for families.  The Eiffel Tower Experience  The Eiffel Tower Experience transports you (and your parents) straight to Paris without leaving Las Vegas Boulevard. Take the glass elevator up 46 stories for an unbeatable view of the Strip and beyond. From the airy observation deck, you can point out landmarks, spot the Bellagio fountains below, and let the breeze brush your face as you look out over the city.  It’s particularly magical around sunset or after dark, when the lights glimmer and the streets below pulse with excitement. Parents tend to appreciate the low-key romance of the experience and the chance for incredible photos. Knowledgeable guides share fun Paris Las Vegas trivia, making the visit feel special and personalized.  Feeling peckish? Treat yourselves to French pastries or a celebratory toast at the café below, which has its own stylish, Parisian flair.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at The LINQ Promenade  Every great outing deserves something delicious, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe is the kind of spot your parents will be raving about long after the last crumb is gone. Find this gem tucked on The LINQ Promenade, surrounded by lively shops and people-watching opportunities.  What makes Sweet Sin so special? The baked goods strike that perfect balance between nostalgic comfort and Vegas-worthy flair. Try the tiramisu (it’s a bestseller for a reason), fluffy, flavor-packed cupcakes, or the rich, indulgent pistachio cannoli. For a lighter bite, go for the tangy lemon tart or a flaky fruit croissant. Coffee here is a treat too—robust, fragrant, and served with a smile.  The vibe is cheerful and inviting, with décor that hints at both Parisian café and modern oasis. There's cozy indoor seating and a few tables right beside the bustling promenade, perfect for a mid-morning break or an afternoon recharge. It’s the kind of place where you can swap travel stories, recap yesterday’s adventures, and fuel up for whatever’s next.  Before you leave, snap a sweet family photo out front—every trip deserves a little dessert memory!    There you have it—Las Vegas is a city for everyone, and sharing it with your parents means discovering unforgettable experiences together. Whether you’re reliving classic Vegas, finding peaceful escapes above the glitz, or diving into delicious treats and spellbinding shows, these activities offer the perfect blend of fun, nostalgia, and family connection. Enjoy every minute!    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to all the best bits just outside the Vegas Strip, and learn how to the make the most of your mornings.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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Is Las Vegas Safe to Visit?

Sit back and picture Vegas: we can guess what’s in your head. Neon strips. Roulette wheels spinning like carousels. Pristine casinos, so shiny they look like they were made just for you. Las Vegas is the land of entertainment opportunities - you’ll never be bored here. But if you’re reading this, what you really want to know is, will you be safe?.. Will I be safe in Las Vegas? 6 ways to stay safe at the slots and tables People carrying large amounts of money attract thieves and pickpockets in any city. But the number of slots and tables in the city may pose some unique considerations to tourists who don’t want to draw attention to themselves by flashing their cash. Here are some good ways to keep your money and valuables as safe as possible: 1. Stow your wallet in your front pocket rather than back. Wrap a thick rubber band around it to make it harder for it to be lifted out. 2. Why not invest in some travel-safe wardrobe pieces? Travel blazers contain special zippered inside pockets. Or if they’re too much hassle, a trusty fanny pack is a tourist classic. 3. Won on the slots? Excellent - drinks on you! But before you cash out, make sure you’re done playing to avoid having any of it lifted. If you’ve won really big, ask the casino for a cashier’s check. 4. Keep purses and backpacks on your lap or on a special hook that slides under the armrest of some blackjack tables. Do not leave them on the floor where a bag snatcher can grab it. Better still, stow your bags in your locked hotel room to avoid this scenario entirely. 5. You’re doing really well at the tables. Your chips are piling up. Maybe so high a thief can see them clearly from the other side of the room. Don’t make a totem pole of your winnings - exchange them for a higher denomination to keep things safe and a little humble. 6. Play safe by avoiding all betting games outside the casinos. What about areas around Vegas? 6 ways to stay safe at the slots and tables People carrying large amounts of money attract thieves and pickpockets in any city. But the number of slots and tables in the city may pose some unique considerations to tourists who don’t want to draw attention to themselves by flashing their cash. Here are some good ways to keep your money and valuables as safe as possible: 1. Stow your wallet in your front pocket rather than back. Wrap a thick rubber band around it to make it harder for it to be lifted out. 2. Why not invest in some travel-safe wardrobe pieces? Travel blazers contain special zippered inside pockets. Or if they’re too much hassle, a trusty fanny pack is a tourist classic. 3. Won on the slots? Excellent - drinks on you! But before you cash out, make sure you’re done playing to avoid having any of it lifted. If you’ve won really big, ask the casino for a cashier’s check. 4. Keep purses and backpacks on your lap or on a special hook that slides under the armrest of some blackjack tables. Do not leave them on the floor where a bag snatcher can grab it. Better still, stow your bags in your locked hotel room to avoid this scenario entirely. 5. You’re doing really well at the tables. Your chips are piling up. Maybe so high a thief can see them clearly from the other side of the room. Don’t make a totem pole of your winnings - exchange them for a higher denomination to keep things safe and a little humble. 6. Play safe by avoiding all betting games outside the casinos. What about areas around Vegas? Put a spotlight on the neon city Gangs are very much still a feature of the area outside of the Strip and Fremont Street. Darker neighboring streets are subject to car break-ins, theft and vandalism. One to bear in mind if you’re considering a car rental while you’re there and need a place to park. City officials are doing a good job of cracking down on crime, but like any good tourist in a new city, do your research before setting off to any unfamiliar area. Vegas gangs are often named for the neighborhoods in which they commit their crimes, so check what people are saying about the places you intend to visit before you set off: The ‘Gerson Park Kingsmen’ are named for the Gerson Park public housing complex, for example. There are also gangs named for Donna Street and Vegas Heights. The Las Vegas Valley has reportedly been home to hundreds of street gangs in recent years. If you’re travelling by car, exercise caution north of the Encore resort, near the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) and near McCarran International Airport, owing to a slightly greater risk of car break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Getting around While on the subject of a car rental, we know they supply greater autonomy, but why not skip the designated driver part and relax into the Vegas experience? Uber, Lyft and the city’s super-secure monorail and bus transportation system are an excellent alternative to getting behind the wheel yourself. If this is your very first time in Vegas, take the opportunity to see the city by foot. The length of the Strip is around four miles, so there’s no better way of walking off a buffet than by taking a stroll and discovering some incredible hotels along the way. You can wander in and out of these huge entertainment complexes, wiling away the hours in true Vegas style before taking your picture at the ‘Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign, just beyond the Mandalay Bay Hotel Resort and Casino. But if you’re new to Vegas or America in general, stay safe on foot by making sure you don’t jaywalk. Use a suitable crossing point or bridges and don’t cross into traffic as the city is heavily policed. Savvy travel in the city of lights So when it comes to visiting Vegas, you’ll be safe as long as you stay savvy. Remember to search before you explore. Whether you’re looking for an authentic local experience or a parking spot, in this city and any other you visit, check out neighborhoods and areas online first. Read what other tourists are saying before you set out and be mindful of places in Vegas where gangs feature, usually in certain areas off the Strip. Be scam smart by limiting how much you buy or take part in outside of the casino. Street vendors are an unsafe option. Stick to licensed shops and don’t buy water, VIP passes or take part in games, kerbside. And remember, what happens in Vegas may not stay in Vegas if you don’t drink responsibly. Try and have fun while keeping your wits engaged. However you decide to travel, get around like a local. You’d probably avoid unmarked taxis at all cost at home, so do the same in Vegas. If in doubt, speak to casino staff who’ll recommend transport companies affiliated with the casino. If you also have the Uber and Lyft apps, great, but remember to check the profiles, ratings (the higher, the better) and registration against the car you climb into. The monorail is also an excellent mode of transport that maintains strict safety measures - just remember to check its schedule first.
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The 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign at night
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Tourist Traps in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is jam-packed with iconic attractions, selfie spots, glittering mega-resorts and celebrity restaurants, each bigger and glitzier than the last. It’s a vast hedonistic adult playground that has taken the phrase ‘24-hour city’ and really (we mean really) run with it. So what’s not to like? Well, there’s always a fly in the ointment, and in this case the primary issue is attractions that are oversubscribed, overrated and overpriced. Of which, let us tell you, there are many. We’ve ferreted out the worst of the Last Vegas tourist traps so you don’t have to. Read on for our guide to the scams and hustles to watch out for, the tourist hotspots you should sidestep, and the best ways to spend your time (and money) instead. Las Vegas Tourist Traps #1: Strip Attractions Spoiler alert: the Las Vegas Strip ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. Sure, there are some eye-popping attractions to ogle, but we’re talking four miles of sweltering tarmac here, along which you can expect to be honked at by angry drivers, besieged by street hustlers, and harassed by ticket touts. No surprise then that the Strip is also where you’ll find Sin City’s most notorious tourist traps. Take The Venetian, for example. This Venice-themed mega-resort is home to must-see Vegas venue the Sphere. But it’s also where unsuspecting tourists pay top dollar for a short ride down the ‘Grand Canal’ with a singing gondolier and line up for the not-altogether-edifying experience of taking a selfie with wax effigies of Elvis and Celine at the totally overrated Madame Tussauds. The same applies to The Venetian’s pseudo-European cousin just down the road: Paris Las Vegas’s Eiffel Tower replica is good for a free photo or six, but you’ll pay through the nose to ride the elevator to the top and, trust us, there are better views to be had in and around the Nevada capital. Instead of these oversubscribed and overpriced Vegas tourist traps, get a real slice of the city’s rich history downtown at the excellent Fremont Street Experience, home of the legendary Golden Nugget casino, and near-neighbor to the glittering Neon Museum and interactive Mob Museum – so interactive, in fact, that it comes with its very own subterranean speakeasy, serving real Prohibition-style cocktails! Or strike out for some of the best vistas in the region: at the Hoover Dam; on a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon; or on a road trip to Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon, or Mount Charleston. Las Vegas Tourist Traps #2: Hidden Fees US tipping culture is out of control, perhaps nowhere more so than in Las Vegas, where the addition of exorbitant sales taxes, resort fees and other hidden costs can prove costly for the unwary tourist. Here’s the lowdown: Sales tax. There’s a mandatory tax of a little over 8% on food and drink in Las Vegas. The same applies to hotel bookings, where sales tax is upwards of 13%. Taxes are not shown in menu/booking prices, but are mandatory, so it pays to be aware in advance. Resort fees. Hotels in Las Vegas typically also apply resort fees, especially along the Strip. Seen a room rate that looks too good to be true? It probably is. Resort fees are also not shown in the price, but will often double the final cost of your stay, or worse. Check terms and conditions carefully when booking, and consider taking a room off-Strip at Fremont Street, where hotels tend to have lower resort fees and, in many cases, none at all. Tipping. You’re expected to pay 15-20% for good service at bars and restaurants. Add that to the mandatory sales tax, and you’re rapidly approaching 25-30% in extras. Hotel minibars. Thirsty? Resist the temptation of the mini fridge in your hotel room. Prices here are astronomical and items are charged to your room if removed for more than 60 seconds, even if you don’t end up consuming them.  Las Vegas Tourist Traps #3: Street Scams Wanna see Elvis’s famous lip curl turn into an aggressive snarl? Celeb lookalikes are a scourge on the Strip, tempting unsuspecting tourists into 'fun' selfies before aggressively demanding exorbitant amounts of cash for the privilege. All shook up? All shook down, more like. Avoid. Similarly, anyone posing as an ‘official City of Las Vegas photographer’ is most decidedly not. Because there’s no such thing. Regardless, you’ll find these bloodsucking leeches creeping around all the big tourist hotspots, ready to part unsuspecting vacationers from their hard-earned cash – the ‘Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas’ sign is a notorious tourist trap in this regard. Simply ignore these pests and they’ll eventually go away. Street gambling looks like easy money, right? Wrong. These illegal card sharps know exactly what they're doing and believe us when we say their sleight of hand is better than your eyesight. This is one of the fastest ways to gamble away your cash in town. Don’t be tempted. The same goes for street touts selling discounted tickets for big Vegas shows. Such tickets are good for nothing, and will be refused at the door. Always get yours from official third-party vendors like Tix4Tonight, or buy direct from the venues themselves.  Las Vegas Tourist Traps #4: Airport Slots Having a flutter is part of the appeal of Vegas, but only if you’re playing just for fun. The odds of a return on your investment at the slots and tables are always stacked in the house’s favor. That said, your likelihood of winning is greatly increased by confining playing to the actual casinos, where proper regulation means that decent returns are – if not common – at least not unheard of. Outside the casinos, however, it’s a bit more of a lottery (pun intended), meaning slots in convenience stores and malls are just money down the drain. Nowhere is this more true than at Harry Reid Airport, where a captive audience is lured to the blinking lights of the slot machines by, well, boredom. Be aware that returns from slots here ar around 8% lower than in Vegas proper, so that boredom is likely to turn to disappointment fairly rapidly. Read a book instead! Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas, anyone? Las Vegas Tourist Traps #5: Cabs This one’s a common hustle. Indeed, anyone who travels anywhere has likely fallen victim to cab overcharging at some time in their life. This is the practice of taking the long way round in order to run up the meter, while oblivious passengers take in the view. In Vegas it’s known as tunneling, and simply asking your driver not to ‘take the tunnel’ will let them know you’re wise to the scam. And if that feels too confrontational for you, just look up the route on your phone to make sure they’re not taking you – both literally and metaphorically – for a ride. You can read our full guide to getting around in Las Vegas here. Save on Popular Las Vegas Tours, Activities and Attractions Save on admission to Las Vegas attractions with Go City, and check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest pics, tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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