Las Vegas Strip

As in the road, not the action.

The Las Vegas Strip runs along a section of Las Vegas Boulevard, from Sahara Avenue to Russell Road, about 7 miles. Obviously Vegas has much more to offer than the strip but for the sake of this post we’re going to limit ourselves to this area, and in fact, not even the whole area.

I will say this outright, if you’re not yet twenty one, don’t bother with Las Vegas. Yes there are still things you can do but your experience will be far better if you wait a few years. I went when I was about fifteen. Old enough to know what I was missing, not old enough to do anything about it, and the perfect age to feel super conspicuous and out of place.

At least on the strip I could still feel somewhat part of the action. There are shows all along the road, fountains, fireworks, and acrobatics. The buildings itself are as much part of the lightshow as anything else, and I have to admit, running into all of the hotel lobbies to see what new things I would see was a treat. The MGM has Lions, the Venetian has a literal river, and Treasure Island has a pirate ship in a pool outside; how could you not be impressed? Caesar’s Palace looks like the entire place is made of marble, and having already been to Italy at that point it was neat to be able to recognize what they were trying to recreate.

All of the things that I enjoyed about Vegas, the lights, shows, and business, can be found on the strip between Sahara Avenue and Tropicana Avenue. A bit further past Tropicana you’ll find the Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay, and they’re worth checking out in their own right, but they border the airport so don’t expect to be physically surrounded by action and opulence.

There are also a load of shows to see like Cirque du Soleil and many a music artist who perform in the various hotels, and I think that’s the major draw of the city outside of those who are single and ready to mingle with martinis. Well, that and the casinos; though gambling has never held much appeal for me.

After having spoken to others who’ve been to Vegas I think the verdict is pretty clear; make sure you go when you’re of legal drinking age and single. That’s probably going to give you the best experience of the place.

Normally I would say dispense with the fancy stuff when you’re travelling, but Vegas is one of the few exceptions. Bring something extravagant. That suite? Yup. That dress and those heels? You know the ones. The ones that make you feel like you could step on the necks of all who oppose you. Bring ’em.

You are in Vegas to live it up, and if you can’t do it here, where else can you do it!? Go party. Have fun. Use protection.

Oh, and bring your wallet.

You’re going to need it.

Wash your hands, wear a mask, and stay safe gentle reader.