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2-Day Local's Guide: Las Vegas Nightlife, Gourmet & Wine for Couples

Las Vegas, Nevada

2 days

Roulette wheel
Casinos and fireworks
Las Vegas Strip
Casino Slot Machines
Roulette game

About Las Vegas, Nevada

Experience the vibrant energy of Las Vegas, Nevada, a city that never sleeps. Famous for its neon-lit Strip, Las Vegas offers world-class entertainment, from high-stakes gambling at opulent casinos to mesmerizing shows by global superstars. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, shop at luxury boutiques, or explore the city's thriving arts district. Beyond the glitz, discover natural beauty at Red Rock Canyon or Lake Mead. For history buffs, the Mob Museum provides an intriguing look into Vegas's notorious past. Whether you're seeking thrilling nightlife, gourmet cuisine, or outdoor adventure, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable vacation.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the famous Las Vegas Strip. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and marvel at the impressive architecture of the world-renowned casinos and hotels. Don't forget to stop by the iconic Bellagio Fountains for a spectacular water show.

Lunch

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the many upscale restaurants located on the Strip. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, Japanese, or a classic American steakhouse, you'll find a plethora of options to satisfy your palate.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit one of the many art galleries or museums in the area. Alternatively, you could indulge in some retail therapy at the high-end shopping centers located on the Strip.

Dinner

For dinner, venture off the Strip and explore the culinary delights of Downtown Las Vegas. This area is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, offering everything from gourmet burgers to authentic Mexican cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a bang by checking out the vibrant nightlife in Downtown Las Vegas. Whether you prefer a laid-back lounge or a high-energy nightclub, you'll find plenty of options to dance the night away.

Morning

Kick off your second day with a visit to the Grand Canyon. Take a helicopter tour for a bird's eye view of this natural wonder, or opt for a guided hiking tour if you're feeling adventurous.

Lunch

After your morning adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch in the great outdoors. Pack a basket with your favorite foods and relax amidst the stunning scenery of the Grand Canyon.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Hoover Dam. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and engineering behind this impressive structure, and don't forget to snap some photos of the breathtaking views.

Dinner

Return to Las Vegas and enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Savor a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views of the city lights.

Evening

Cap off your trip with a show at one of the many Entertainment Venues on the Strip. Whether you prefer a magic show, a musical, or a Cirque du Soleil performance, you're sure to end your trip on a high note.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Bellagio Fountains

1
Bellagio Fountains

A large dancing water fountain synchronized to music. The show takes place every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings, and every 15 minutes from 8 pm to midnight.

Attractions
Landmarks
Grand Canyon

2
Grand Canyon

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. Tours from Las Vegas are available.

Attractions
Landmarks
Parks
Tours
Hoover Dam

3
Hoover Dam

A concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, bordering Nevada and Arizona.

Monuments
Attractions
Entertainment Venues on the Strip

4
Entertainment Venues on the Strip

A collection of venues hosting world-class entertainment, including concerts, magic shows, and Cirque du Soleil performances, located on the Las Vegas Strip.

Attractions
Entertainment
Art Galleries on the Strip

5
Art Galleries on the Strip

A collection of art galleries featuring works from renowned artists, located on the Las Vegas Strip.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp Cocktail

A classic appetizer in Las Vegas, the shrimp cocktail is a dish of chilled, cooked shrimp served with a tangy, tomato-based sauce. It's a staple in many of the city's buffets and seafood restaurants.

Prime Rib

Prime Rib

Prime Rib is a popular dish in Las Vegas, often served at buffets and steakhouses. It's a cut of beef from the primal rib, slow-roasted and usually served with au jus and horseradish.

Buffet Brunch

Buffet Brunch

Las Vegas is famous for its extravagant buffet brunches, where you can sample a wide variety of dishes from around the world, including seafood, meats, pastries, and desserts.

Chicken Wings

Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a popular bar food in Las Vegas, often served with a variety of sauces, from spicy buffalo to sweet barbecue.

Chile Relleno

Chile Relleno

Chile Relleno is a traditional Mexican dish that's popular in Las Vegas due to the city's proximity to Mexico. It's a stuffed, roasted poblano pepper filled with cheese and sometimes meat, then battered and fried.

Clam Chowder

Clam Chowder

Clam chowder is a creamy soup popular in Las Vegas, particularly in the city's seafood restaurants. It's made with clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon.

Craft Beer

Craft Beer

Las Vegas has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

Cocktails

Cocktails

Cocktails are a staple in Las Vegas, with many bars and restaurants offering a wide variety of classic and innovative drinks. The city is particularly known for its creative mixology.

Champagne Brunch

Champagne Brunch

Champagne brunch is a Las Vegas tradition, where diners can enjoy a leisurely brunch paired with unlimited champagne.

Vegas Bomb

The Vegas Bomb is a popular shot in Las Vegas, typically made with Crown Royal whiskey, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and Red Bull.

Pho

Pho

Pho is a Vietnamese soup that's become popular in Las Vegas. It's made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef.

Fish Tacos

Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are a popular dish in Las Vegas, reflecting the city's proximity to the coast and its influence from Mexican cuisine. They're typically made with grilled or fried fish, cabbage slaw, and a creamy sauce.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Las Vegas, Nevada is typically from March to May and from September to November. During these periods, the weather is more moderate compared to the scorching summer months, making it more comfortable to explore the city's outdoor attractions. Additionally, these spring and fall months often offer more affordable accommodation rates than the peak summer season. However, keep in mind that Las Vegas is a popular destination year-round, so it's always bustling with activities and events.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Las Vegas Monorail is a convenient way to travel along the Strip. It runs from the MGM Grand to the Sahara Las Vegas with several stops in between. It operates from early morning until late at night.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Las Vegas. They can be a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can use them to travel anywhere in the city, including the airport, hotels, casinos, and other attractions.

Taxis are readily available throughout Las Vegas, especially at the airport, hotels, and casinos. They can be a quick and convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

If you plan on doing a lot of traveling outside of the Strip, a rental car might be a good option. There are several rental car companies located at the airport and throughout the city.

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates a network of bus routes throughout Las Vegas. The Deuce and the SDX are two popular routes that run along the Strip and downtown.

Las Vegas has a growing network of bike lanes and trails, making it a bike-friendly city. There are several places where you can rent bicycles, including at some hotels and through the RTC Bike Share program.

For a more luxurious travel experience, consider hiring a limousine. Many companies offer limousine services in Las Vegas, and you can use them for airport transfers, sightseeing tours, or just getting around the city.

Much of Las Vegas, especially the Strip, is very walkable. There are pedestrian-friendly paths and bridges that connect many of the major hotels and attractions.

Many hotels and casinos offer free shuttle services to and from the airport and other major attractions. Check with your hotel to see if this service is available.

There are several free trams that operate between different hotels on the Strip. These can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're staying at or near one of the hotels they service.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Las Vegas, Nevada as a first time visitor

1

Las Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert, and it has a subtropical hot desert climate.

2

The city is known for its dry weather, with over 300 sunny days per year.

3

Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C), so pack accordingly.

4

Even though it's hot during the day, the desert can get quite cool at night. Bring a light jacket or sweater for evenings.

5

Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone (PST).

6

The city is very walkable, but remember to wear comfortable shoes as the distances can be deceiving.

7

Tipping is customary in Las Vegas. A 15-20% tip is standard for most services.

8

Smoking is allowed in most casinos and bars, but not in restaurants, malls, and other public places.

9

The legal drinking and gambling age in Las Vegas is 21.

10

Free drinks are often served to gamblers, but it's customary to tip the waitress at least $1 per drink.

11

Las Vegas is known for its buffets. They can range in price from $5 to over $50.

12

Most casinos offer free lessons for beginners in games like poker, blackjack, and craps.

13

If you're planning to rent a car, remember that parking is no longer free at many hotels and casinos.

14

Las Vegas has a monorail system that runs along the Strip, providing a convenient way to travel.

15

The city is also served by rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

16

If you're planning to visit the Grand Canyon, it's about a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas.

17

The city is very crowded during major conventions. Check the convention schedule before you book your trip.

18

Las Vegas has a high crime rate compared to other US cities, so be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

19

The city's tap water is safe to drink, but it has a high mineral content that some people find unpleasant. You may prefer to drink bottled water.

20

Las Vegas has a dress code. While casual attire is acceptable during the day, many clubs and high-end restaurants require formal attire in the evening.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Shorts

  • Jeans or casual pants

  • Dress or formal attire for nightlife

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hair styling products

  • Personal hygiene items

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Airline tickets

  • Emergency contact information

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel guide or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop or tablet

  • Charger for laptop or tablet

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Books or magazines

  • Playing cards or small games

  • First aid kit

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Tissues or wet wipes

Weather Conditions

Visiting Las Vegas, Nevada, can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to be prepared for the city's unique weather conditions. Las Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert, which means it experiences a hot desert climate. Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). Therefore, if you're planning a summer trip, be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, especially if you're spending time outdoors or walking along the Strip. In contrast, winters in Las Vegas are short and generally mild, with daytime temperatures usually in the mid-50s to low 60s°F (around 10-16°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop quite a bit, sometimes into the low 30s°F (-1°C), so if you're visiting in the winter, you'll want to pack a mix of both warm and cool clothing. Spring and fall are considered the most comfortable seasons to visit Las Vegas, with temperatures typically ranging from the 70s to 80s°F (21-27°C). These seasons offer a great balance of warm, sunny days and cooler nights. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Las Vegas is in a desert. This means the humidity is usually quite low, which can make the heat feel more intense and also dry out your skin and lips. Consider bringing moisturizer and lip balm to stay comfortable. Lastly, while rain is rare in Las Vegas, when it does occur, it can lead to flash flooding. Always pay attention to local weather forecasts and warnings during your stay. Enjoy your trip to Las Vegas, and remember, the city is more than just its weather. There's always something to do, no matter the temperature outside!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

16° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Las Vegas, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other places. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures.

February

18° / 3°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still quite cool. It's a good month for indoor activities and shows.

March

21° / 6°

March sees a significant increase in temperature, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The weather is comfortable, not too hot or too cold.

April

26° / 10°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

May

31° / 15°

May is the start of the hot season, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

June

36° / 20°

June is very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat and want to spend time by the pool.

July

40° / 24°

July is the hottest month in Las Vegas, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. It's a great time to visit if you love extreme heat and want to spend time by the pool.

August

39° / 23°

August is still very hot, but temperatures start to decrease slightly. It's a good time to visit if you love the heat but prefer slightly cooler temperatures than in July.

September

34° / 18°

September sees a significant decrease in temperature, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The weather is still hot, but much more comfortable than in the summer months.

October

28° / 12°

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. The weather is comfortable, not too hot or too cold.

November

21° / 6°

November sees a significant decrease in temperature, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The weather is comfortable, not too hot or too cold.

December

16° / 1°

December is a cool month in Las Vegas, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other places. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures.

Did you know?

Did you know that Las Vegas, Nevada is also known as the 'Marriage Capital of the World' due to its ease of acquiring a marriage license and its numerous wedding chapels?

1 of 10

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