So you've arrived in Vegas and you hate it? Don't worry, you aren't the first and you won't be the last. Vegas can be described in one sentence:
But if you do end up in Vegas (and seriously, as much as I hated it I think it's still important you go there and see for yourself), I want you to have a good time. So grit your teeth, read this post and be prepared to find the good in the city of sins.
What to do in Vegas for people who don't gamble
Despite first appearances, there is more to Vegas than gambling, hardcore drinking and going to a str!p bar. Here are some of our favourites:Explore the cool art scene in Downtown Vegas
Downtown Vegas is actually also old Vegas - where Vegas was born. Most of it is still like Vegas (casinos etc), and that in itself is worth a look.
But the main reason we liked Downtown Vegas is because of the cool and crazy outside art scene. Just a stone's throw away from the casinos and it does look like a desert - a desert filled with wacky art pieces that wouldn't be out of place in a Mad Max movie.
The meerkats were our favourite because if you squint your eyes slightly they look like weasels.
There's also a small section of boutique shops, vegan cafes and quirky stores.
You can't miss it - there's a massive praying mantis hanging around outside, shooting fire from its antennae in time to Queen.
Have some free whisky
For some reason I thought the alcohol was cheap if not free in Vegas. I was wrong. But you can still try out some whisky for free at the Venetian between 6pm and 7pm.
Take a look at a million dollars
The casino and hotel Binion's (in Downtown) is not great: it's old fashioned and the air is horrible. But we went in for two reasons: to try out the free slot machine (meh) and to see one million dollars up close. Worth a look, because it's free to.
Ride around in a limo
Last, but not least, we recommend taking a ride in a limo - despite this being super 'Vegas-y' this was one of our favourite things that we did.
It was so luxurious, people waved to us and we felt like rockstars. Vegas may be about being flashy and being a consumer, but there are some fun parts of this - namely, riding in a limo.
We took a limo ride with Presidential Limo Las Vegas and completely loved it!
And if you're looking for a smart ride in Vegas that isn't in a limo try Blacklane - they do professional rides all across the world.
Where to eat in Vegas
The best place to eat in Vegas? Vegenation for sure. They are an oasis in a sea of crazy. The staff were so lovely and polite there and the food is beyond delicious.
We had the vegan sushi and a burger.
The burger wasn't bad - not the best I've ever had because it was kind of dry, but by no means the worst.
The sushi on the other hand was the best sushi I've ever had (which includes 'real' sushi with fish). As much as I dislike Vegas, I would gladly go back just to have some more of that sushi. Damn!
We actually liked it so much at Vegenation that we went back the next day for breakfast, which was also delicious - and there was so much they let us take it away and have it for lunch.
Where to stay in Vegas
The bathroom had nice toiletries but needs a bit of a modernisation.
The hotel itself is also massive with everything you could need under one roof: cafes, restaurants, bars etc.
How to get to Vegas
For example, the cheapest flight from New York to Vegas might be a lot of hassle - it might stop in three different places and take 24 hours. Kiwi will also find you a flight that stops just once, or maybe even a direct flight, that's not that much difference in price and is a lot less hassle.
Take a TEP with you
Conclusion
We hope this has been helpful for your Vegas trip!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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