Las Vegas continues to evolve, attracting more market segments and creating additional reasons to visit. First-timers and returning visitors have found a myriad of attractions from gaming to entertainment, dining, shopping and more recently, live sporting events. And just outside of Las Vegas, visitors can enjoy Lake Mead, Mount Charleston and the Grand Canyon.
So, while there’s a bounty of options to choose from in Las Vegas, here is what you should not expect from this exciting city:
*While the nonsmoking movement has taken over most of the country, Las Vegas casinos stand as a bulwark against fresh air. You’re free not to smoke —but you can enjoy the second-hand version that permeates even the best filtering systems. In other words, feel free to bet and also bet on your health.
*Sane drivers are at a premium in Las Vegas, probably because most irrational drivers come from other parts of the country (L.A., are you listening?). Resort parking lots are a little safer, due to low speed limits. Much safer to take an Uber, Lyft or a cab.
*Do you like cash? Bring it with you. Those casino ATM machines give you worse odds than slots.
*Despite the hype, when you visit Lake Mead, don’t expect to find any bodies from the days of the Mob. Just enjoy a day on the water and time away from the bustling Strip. Visit the Mob Museum for history and some cocktails on ice…but still, no bodies on ice.
*Unlike Los Angeles or New York, you won’t see a lot of celebrities walking around or gambling next to you. Most likely, you’ll only see them on stage or backstage for a meet and greet. On the other hand, celebrity lookalikes are plentiful (especially Downtown) and they’re free to look at (photos are extra).
*Inexpensive souvenirs in casinos are like looking for the Abominable Snowman or the Loch Ness Monster (at best, you might see a blurry picture of a souvenir). Your best bet is to find a strip mall outlet that sells crappy (but cheap) mementoes.
*While there are themed resorts representing cities and countries (e.g. New York-New York, Paris, Luxor, Bellagio), remember they are basically casinos with rooms. For blackjack it’s fine, but for culture…buy a plane ticket.
*Showgirls are practically extinct, but fondly remembered. Quasi-showgirls are available at the Fremont Street Experience and at some conventions. But the real ones are gone. Now, there’s just a showgirl museum!
*Looking for low prices? Keep looking. It’s a new Las Vegas and someone has to pay for it.
Since this is not a complete list of things you shouldn’t expect from Las Vegas, a guidebook could fill the void.
But don’t raise your expectations!
