Part of our Nevada guide.
Las Vegas is a city of instant contradictions—neon-soaked casino floors and silent desert canyons, five-star indulgence and roadside kitsch—all within a single valley. This guide gathers 12 of our most practical and surprising Las Vegas articles, from family pools to passport offices, so you can plan a trip that matches your version of the city.
Related travel guides: Hidden Secrets Of The Luxor Hotel In Las Vegas, The Hidden Stories Behind Circus Circus In Las Vegas, What It Costs In Nevada, and How To Get Reservation At Delilah Las Vegas.
5 Vibrant Festivals/Events To Attend In Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas hosts a year-round calendar of festivals, from electronic dance music gatherings to food and wine celebrations that take over resort pools and convention halls. The city’s event scene shifts with the seasons; major events often require booking months ahead. For a local experience, look for smaller cultural parades and street fairs in neighborhoods beyond the Strip.
These Are The 9 Best Pools In Las Vegas For Families With Kids
Family-friendly pools in Las Vegas range from sandy-bottomed lagoons to lazy rivers with splash pads, many attached to resorts that offer free access to guests. The best picks combine shallow entry, lifeguards, and shaded cabanas. Some pools open as early as 9 a.m., and the busiest hours are mid-afternoon, so arrive early to claim a spot. Check each resort’s pool rules, as some restrict outside food or require reservations for daybeds.
Getting A Passport In Las Vegas, Nevada
If you live in Las Vegas and need a passport, the quickest route is to apply at the Las Vegas Passport Office on South Las Vegas Boulevard, which handles routine and expedited applications. Routine processing took about 6–8 weeks as of 2024, while expedited service (2–3 weeks) costs an extra fee. For same-day service, you must have proof of international travel within 14 days and make an appointment. Bring your birth certificate, a government-issued ID, a passport photo, and payment—cash is not accepted at the office.
12 Family-Friendly Activities In Las Vegas, Nevada
Families can fill several days without stepping onto a casino floor. The Adventuredome at Circus Circus is an indoor amusement park with a roller coaster, carnival games, and circus performances, all under a glass dome. Other picks include the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, the Discovery Children's Museum, and the Springs Preserve, which has outdoor trails and a butterfly habitat. Many hotels offer kids' clubs and arcades.
10 Spectacular Beaches To Visit In Las Vegas, Nevada
While Las Vegas sits in the Mojave Desert, Lake Mead lies a 30-minute drive from the Strip and offers sandy beaches, swimming, and boating. Boulder Beach and Hemenway Harbor are the most accessible, with picnic areas and gentle water entry. For a quieter spot, head to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area's more remote coves, which require a short hike. Summer water temperatures can exceed 80°F, and the lake level fluctuates, so check current conditions before driving out.
How To Become A Tour Guide In Las Vegas
Becoming a tour guide in Las Vegas requires a city business license and, for certain attractions, a special use permit from Clark County. Most guides start by working for established tour companies that provide training and handle insurance; independent guides must pass a background check and carry liability coverage. The job is seasonal, with peak demand from March to May and September to November. Fluency in a second language is a major advantage.
7 Relaxing Retreats To Enjoy In Las Vegas, Nevada
For a quieter side of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is a 20-minute drive from the Strip and offers desert trails, scenic drives, and picnic spots. The canyon's 13-mile loop road is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center has exhibits on local geology. Other retreats include the Springs Preserve gardens, the Ethel M. Chocolate Factory's cactus garden, and resort spas that offer day passes. For a full day away from the crowds, consider Mount Charleston, where summer temperatures run 20 degrees cooler.
What To Pack For A Trip To Las Vegas
Pack layers for Las Vegas, as the desert climate brings hot days and cool nights. Summers can be scorching, while winters are mild. For summer, bring breathable fabrics, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen; for winter, a light jacket or sweater is enough for most days, though evenings can dip into the 40s°F. Comfortable walking shoes are essential—the Strip is about 4 miles long, and you'll likely walk several miles daily. Also pack a refillable water bottle, as dry air causes quick dehydration, and a swimsuit for your hotel pool.
9 Thrilling Adventures To Try In Las Vegas, Nevada
Beyond the casinos, Las Vegas is a launchpad for adventure. A helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon typically lasts 3–4 hours round-trip from the Strip, with flights departing at sunrise or late afternoon for the best light. For a faster rush, try indoor skydiving at a facility near the airport, or go ziplining over Fremont Street. Off-road tours in the desert, including ATV rides through the Valley of Fire, run year-round and provide helmets and instruction. Always book with a licensed operator and ask about weight limits and weather policies.
How To Pack For A Two-Day Trip To Las Vegas, Nevada
For a two-day trip, pack a carry-on only and plan outfits that transition from day to night. Start with a pair of dark jeans or chinos, a couple of shirts, and a light blazer for nicer dinners. Include one pair of comfortable sneakers for walking and one pair of dress shoes—leave the heels at home unless you're planning a club night. Roll clothes to save space, and bring a small backpack for day trips to Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are non-negotiable, even in winter.
Where Is The Nomad Hotel In Las Vegas
The Nomad Hotel is located inside the Park MGM complex on the Las Vegas Strip, at 3772 South Las Vegas Boulevard. It occupies the top floors of the Park MGM tower, and guests check in at a dedicated lobby on the third floor. The hotel is connected to the Park MGM casino, but the Nomad's own pool and restaurant are reserved for guests. It's a short walk to the T-Mobile Arena and the Park Theater.
What To Do On A 4-Day Trip To Las Vegas
With four days, you can cover the Strip's highlights and take one day trip. Day one is for the Strip: walk from the Bellagio fountains to the High Roller observation wheel, and catch the Mirage volcano show at night. Day two is for museums—the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, and the National Atomic Testing Museum all offer air-conditioned escapes. Day three, rent a car and drive to Red Rock Canyon in the morning and the Hoover Dam in the afternoon. Day four, explore downtown's Fremont Street and the Arts District, then catch a show before dinner.
