Essential Guide to

Las Vegas

A Concierge Guide Powered by Dwyer Consulting Company Inc.

Crafted by seasoned hospitality professionals and enriched with insights from Las Vegas locals, this curated guide brings together essential experiences, hidden gems, and insider tips—designed to help you explore Las Vegas like a true VIP.

Las Vegas is more than bright lights and big bets — it’s home to world-class shows, vibrant entertainment, and a dynamic culinary scene. This guide will help you explore the city’s best attractions, from iconic spots to hidden gems, making your visit unforgettable.

 

On-site at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

From award-winning on-site dining to local foodie favorites Virgin Hotels has a variety of options for every pallet

  • Upscale Japanese with signature dishes like black cod miso & sashimi tacos.

    Address: 3655 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, 681

    Website: Contact & Hours - Nobu Las Vegas Caesars Palace

  • Modern, sleek steakhouse by the Morton family.

    Address: 4455 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

    Website: www.onesteakhouselv.com

  • At Lucia, each dish is a celebration of tradition and taste. Guests can indulge in the rich flavors of Mexico with queso birria tacos, fire-grilled arrachera, and hand-crafted margaritas.

    Address: 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, NV 89169

    Website: virginhotelslv.com

  • Stylish Italian coastal-inspired spot with a poolside vibe.

    Address: 4455 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

    Website: www.kassibeach.com

  • Your ultimate destination for breakfast. Start your day with a delicious breakfast buffet or indulge in comforting favorites like savory egg dishes and decadent pancake stacks.

    Address: 4455 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

    *Walk-in only

    Website: virginhotelslv.com

  • 24/7, Pizza Forte offers a fast-casual pizza walk-up counter at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. Along with New York and Roman style pizzas and homemade Italian meatballs you’ll find a variety of Italian street food.

    Address: 4455 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

    Website: virginhotelslv.com

    *Walk-in only

Walkable from Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Curated collection of local foodie favorites just around the corner. Flavor at your doorstep.

Major Attractions Walkable from Virgin Hotels

From iconic landmarks to local hotspots, explore the best of the city—all within walking distance .

  • “The Strip” is the 4.2-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard famous for its concentration of large resort hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues, and considered one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. It's known for lavish hotels, high-end restaurants, world-class shows, gambling, and iconic attractions like the Fountains of Bellagio and the High Roller observation wheel. 

    (about 0.7 mi west at Las Vegas Blvd & Harmon Ave)

    • Closest access near Horseshoe/Bally’s and the Miracle Mile Shops.

  • Miracle Mile Shops is an enclosed shopping mall at the Planet Hollywood resort, located on the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. The mall is 475,000 sq ft and 1.2-mile long. It is home to 170 tenants, including retailers, restaurants and live entertainment venues.

    (approx. 0.8 mi west)

    • Indoor mall with 170+ shops, casual eats, bars & often free live shows.

  • Bustling, open-air mall featuring boutiques, specialty stores, restaurants & fast-food outlets.

    (approx. 0.9 mi)

    • Open-air shops right outside Horseshoe/Bally’s with quick bites, bars & nightly LED light show.

  • A unique music and entertainment arena and the world's largest spherical structure and features cutting-edge technology, including a massive 16K LED screen and advanced audio systems, creating immersive and unparalleled entertainment experiences. 

    (~ about 1 mi north)

    • Depending on where you start from, this new landmark is a longer walk but technically under a mile.

Downtown Las Vegas & Fremont Street Area

Walk through the neon-lit streets of Downtown Las Vegas and soak in the vintage energy of Old Vegas. From the legendary lights of Fremont Street to speakeasies, street performers, live music, and retro casinos, this area blends classic charm with edgy, modern flair. It’s where the city’s original spirit still thrives—raw, real, and unforgettable.

    • Esther’s Kitchen(Arts District) $$

      • Inventive Italian, house-made pasta, seasonal dishes — widely loved by locals.

      • Address: 1130 S Casino Center Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89146

      • Website: estherslv.com

    • Carson Kitchen (Downtown) $$

      • American small plates in a rooftop-style setting; try the bacon jam & crispy chicken skins.

      • Address: 124 S 6th St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: carsonkitchen.com

    • Le Thai (Fremont East) $$

      • Cozy spot known for the “three-color curry” and house noodles.

      • Address: 509 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: https://lethaivegas.com/

    • Barry’s Downtown Prime(Circa) $$$

      • Classic Vegas steakhouse with a retro-cool vibe.

      • Address: 8 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: barrysdowntownprime.com

    • Therapy (Fremont East) $$

      • Modern American share plates, creative cocktails, popular brunch.

      • Address: 518 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: therapylv.com

    • Pizza Rock(Near Fremont) $

      • Award-winning pizzas, from Neapolitan to New York slices.

      • Address: 201 N 3rd St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: https://pizzarocklasvegas.com/

        *Walk-in only

    • Commonwealth (Fremont East) $$

      • Rooftop bar & dance floor with great cocktails and downtown views.

      • Address: 525 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: commonwealthlv.com

    • Downtown Cocktail Room $$

      • Hidden speakeasy with cozy, dim-lit atmosphere & expert mixologists.

      • Address: 111 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: downtowncocktailroom.com

    • Atomic Liquors $

      • Vegas’ oldest freestanding bar (since 1952), divey but historic, great patio.

      • Address: 917 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: https://atomic.vegas/

    • The Laundry Room $$$

      • Tiny, reservation-only speakeasy hidden inside Commonwealth — classic cocktail focus.

      • Address: 525 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: https://www.laundryroomlv.com

    • Circa Bar & Mega Bar(Circa) $

      • Giant longest bar in Nevada with flair bartenders — great for groups.

      • Address: 8 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: circalasvegas.com

        *Walk-in only for all Bars & Lounges without bottle service

    • Vegas Test Kitchen(Fremont East) $$

      • Rotating pop-ups of local chefs testing new concepts — always changing

      • Address: 1020 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: vegastestkitchen.com

    • Mojave Brewing (Nearby in Henderson) $

      • If guests want to venture slightly out, local craft beers & laid-back vibe.

      • Address: 1511 W Warm Springs Rd, Henderson, NV 89014

      • Website: https://mojavecider.com/

    • Container Park $

      • Open-air shopping, art, bars & live music — giant fire-breathing mantis out front.

      • Address: 707 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: dtlv.com

    • Circa’s Stadium Swim $$

      • Massive rooftop pool with 143-foot screen for sports — great day party scene.

      • Address: 8 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: circalasvegas.com

    • Fremont Street Experience $

      • LED canopy shows, live cover bands, zip line over the crowds (SlotZilla).

      • Address: Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: vegasexperience.com

    • The Neon Museum (a.k.a Neon Boneyard) $$

      • Outdoor exhibition of old Vegas neon signs — especially stunning at night.

      • Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: neonmuseum.org

    • Mob Museum $$

      • Fascinating exhibits on Vegas’ mob history, plus a speakeasy & distillery in the basement.

      • Address: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101

      • Website: themobmuseum.org

Bars & Lounges

Sip and socialize at the best spots for cocktails, views, and vibes.

    • The Chandelier (Cosmopolitan)

      • Multi-level bar inside a giant crystal chandelier — signature cocktails & photo-worthy

      • Address: 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: cosmopolitanlasvegas.com

    • Vesper Bar (Cosmopolitan)

      • Sleek, classic cocktail bar with a modern twist on timeless drinks

      • Address: 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: vesperbar.com

    • SkyBar (Waldorf Astoria)

      • Stunning 23rd-floor views of the Strip — perfect for sunset cocktails

      • Address: 3752 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89158

      • Website: waldorfastorialasvegas.com

    • Juniper Cocktail Lounge (Park MGM)

      • Known for gin-focused cocktails in a vibrant space

      • Address: 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: parkgm.com

    • Omnia’s Terrace (Caesars Palace)

      • Overlooks the Strip — part of the megaclub, but open for casual drinks early evening

      • Address: 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: omnianightclub.com

    • Foundation Room (Mandalay Bay)

      • Exotic decor with incredible rooftop views, DJs late night

      • Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119

      • Website: foundationroom.com

    • Minus5 Ice Bar(Mandalay Bay / Venetian / LINQ Promenade)

      • Everything’s made of ice — from glasses to seating

      • Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119

      • Website: minus5icebar.com

    • Beer Park (Paris)

    • Cabo Wabo Cantina (Planet Hollywood)

      • Margaritas, tequila shots & live music overlooking the Strip

      • Address: 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: cabowabo.com

    • Whiskey Down(MGM Grand)

      • Dark, sexy lounge with an extensive whiskey list & gaming tables

      • Address: 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: mgmgrand.com

    • Rosina(Venetian)

      • Small, elegant bar with a “press for champagne” button

      • Address: 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: venetian.com

    • Vanderpump Cocktail Garden(Caesars Palace)

      • Lisa Vanderpump’s lush garden lounge — floral cocktails, airy atmosphere

      • Address: 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: vanderpumpvegashotel.com

    • Lagasse’s Stadium (Venetian)

      • Part sports bar, part sportsbook, comfy stadium seating for big games

      • Address: 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: venetian.com

    • Drai’s Beachclub at The Cromwell

      • Poolside day club by day, turns to rooftop lounge at night

      • Address: 3595 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

      • Website: draisgroup.com

Top 10 Attractions

Must-see sights and experiences that define the Vegas Strip.

    • Where: South end of the Strip (near Mandalay Bay)

    • Why: Absolute classic. Snap a photo at this 1959 landmark that symbolizes Vegas’ bright lights & legendary fun.

    • Where: In front of Bellagio Hotel

    • Why: Stunning choreographed water shows set to music & lights every 15-30 minutes, free and breathtaking day or night.

    • Where: Downtown Las Vegas

    • Why: Outdoor museum showcasing historic neon signs from old casinos & businesses. Beautifully lit up at night.

    • Where: The LINQ Promenade

    • Why: The world’s tallest observation wheel (550 feet) offering panoramic views of the Strip & city.

    • Where: Downtown Las Vegas

    • Why: Pedestrian mall with a massive LED canopy, nightly light shows, live bands & street performers — pure old Vegas energy.

    • Where: Inside Bellagio Hotel

    • Why: Free floral wonderland that changes seasonally. A beautiful, quiet oasis in the middle of the action.

    • Where: Outside The Mirage Hotel

    • Why: Fire, music & water erupt nightly in a free show that’s still a Strip staple. (Shows typically 7, 8, 9, & 10 pm).

    • Where: STRAT Hotel (north Strip)

    • Why: Observation decks with sweeping views, plus adrenaline rides like X-Scream & Insanity literally hanging off the edge.

    • Where: Inside & outside the Venetian Hotel

    • Why: Romantic, kitschy, beautifully done — with singing gondoliers steering you under painted skies.

    • Where: About 20 minutes south of the Strip in the desert

    • Why: Vibrant art installation of stacked neon boulders by Ugo Rondinone. An Instagram favorite & easy morning side trip.

Live Shows & Performances

From Cirque to headliners — the city’s best live entertainment, all in one place.

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    • Location: Caesars Palace – Spiegeltent outside Caesars Palace

    • Description: Wild, adults-only variety show blending acrobatics, burlesque, and raunchy comedy. Often rated the #1 show in Vegas for its edgy, circus-style acts and intimate, round tent setting.

    • Performance Days: Nightly (dark Mondays), usually 7:00 pm & 9:00 pm (absinthevegas.com).

    • Location: The Venetian – Grand Canal Shoppes

    • Description: From the creators of Absinthe, this adults-only Wild West romp mixes high-flying acts, bawdy humor & irreverent stunts in a saloon setting.

    • Performance Days: Usually Wednesday–Sunday, two shows nightly around 7:00 pm & 9:00 pm (venetianlasvegas.com).

    • Location: The Cosmopolitan – Opium Theatre

    • Description: A space-themed variety show from Spiegelworld (makers of Absinthe), known for quirky, sci-fi comedy, sideshow stunts, and live music.

    • Performance Days: Typically Thursday–Monday, around 8:00 pm & 10:00 pm (cosmopolitanlasvegas.com).

    • Location: Luxor Hotel – Blue Man Theater

    • Description: High-energy, multi-sensory show mixing percussion, technology, and comic moments. Family-friendly and uniquely interactive.

    • Performance Days: Nightly except select dark days; generally 5:00 pm & 8:00 pm (blueman.com).

    • Location: Tropicana – Legends in Concert Theater

    • Description: Vegas’ longest-running tribute show with top-tier impersonators of icons like Elvis, Adele, Freddie Mercury & more. Rotating cast.

    • Performance Days: Generally Wednesday–Sunday, around 7:30 pm.

    • Location: Sahara Las Vegas – Magic Mike Theatre

    • Description: High-production dance and strip show inspired by Channing Tatum’s films. Designed for a fun, girls’ night out vibe with immersive staging.

    • Performance Days: Usually Wednesday–Sunday, shows at 7:30 pm & 10:00 pm (magicmikelivelasvegas.com).

    • Location: MGM Grand – David Copperfield Theater

    • Description: Legendary illusionist performs large-scale stunts, audience mind-reading, and signature illusions.

    • Performance Days: Almost nightly, typically 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm, plus some matinees.

    • Location: Rio All-Suite Hotel – Penn & Teller Theater

    • Description: Master illusionists mix brilliant sleight-of-hand, large illusions, and smart humor. Ends with a meet & greet in the lobby.

    • Performance Days: Generally Sunday–Wednesday, 9:00 pm.

    • Location: Flamingo – Bugsy’s Cabaret

    • Description: “Mr. Las Vegas” shares songs & stories from his legendary career in an intimate setting.

    • Performance Days: Select dates, generally around 7:00 pm.

    • Location: MGM Grand – Jabbawockeez Theater

    • Description: World-famous dance crew delivers a hip-hop dance show with impressive visuals, humor, and crowd interaction.

    • Performance Days: Typically Thursday–Monday, 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm.

    • Location: Bellagio Hotel – "O Theatre"

    • Description: A breathtaking, aquatic-themed spectacle centered around a 1.5 million-gallon pool. Combines synchronized swimming, high diving, and aerial acrobatics set in a beautifully designed opera‑house-style theater.

    • Performance Days: Wednesday–Sunday, typically at 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm

    • Location: Treasure Island (TI) Hotel – Mystère Theatre

    • Description: The longest-running Cirque show in Las Vegas (since 1993). High-energy mix of acrobatics, dance, comedy, and worldbeat music

    • Performance Days: Friday–Tuesday, with two shows nightly at 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm

    • Location: MGM Grand – KÀ Theatre

    • Description: A cinematic, martial-arts-inspired spectacular featuring epic staging, flying sequences, and dramatic storytelling with rich visuals

    • Performance Days: Typically runs daily—example schedule shows performances Wednesday–Sunday at 6:00 pm & 8:30 pm

    • Location: New York-New York Hotel – New York‑New York Theater

    • Description: A fun, upbeat New York City–themed variety show combining comedy, music, and acrobatics with energetic big-city flair

    • Performance Days: Showtimes generally 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm nightly

Shopping

Luxury labels, unique finds, and everything in between.

    • The Shops at Crystals (CityCenter)

      • Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tom Ford, Rolex, Harry Winston

    • Wynn Esplanade & Encore Esplanade

      • Hermès, Cartier, Loro Piana, Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta

    • Bellagio Shops

      • Tiffany & Co., Dior, Fendi, Bvlgari, Giorgio Armani

    • Forum Shops at Caesars Palace

      • Versace, Valentino, CH Carolina Herrera, Mulberry, plus upscale restaurants

    • Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian & Palazzo

      • Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, Stuart Weitzman, plus fun canal experience

    • Fashion Show Mall (on the Strip)

      • Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Macy’s, Zara, AllSaints, Ted Baker

    • Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood

    • Las Vegas North Premium Outlets (near Downtown)

      • Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Tory Burch, Saint Laurent, Nike, Adidas

    • Las Vegas South Premium Outlets (closer to the airport)

      • Saks OFF 5th, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Coach, Banana Republic

    • Downtown Container Park (Fremont East)

      • Local artisans, small boutiques, jewelry, plus bars & a giant praying mantis sculpture

    • Fergusons Downtown

      • Small shops for handmade jewelry, art, and cool indie goods, often paired with community events

    • Bonanza Gift Shop (near the Strat)

      • Self-billed “World’s Largest Gift Shop” for classic kitschy Vegas souvenirs

    • M&M’s World & Coca-Cola Store (near MGM Grand)

      • Interactive, colorful experiences perfect for grabbing fun souvenirs

Day Trips & Adventure Excursions

Explore beyond the Strip with unforgettable outdoor and cultural getaways.

    • Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive (Summerlin)

      • Just 30 minutes from the Strip, this 13-mile one-way drive through striking red sandstone formations is stunning. Popular for hiking, rock climbing & photo stops.

    • Mount Charleston

      • About 45 minutes northwest, it offers pine forests, alpine views & cooler temps. Great for hiking in summer, snowplay in winter.

    • Seven Magic Mountains

      • Vibrant art installation by Ugo Rondinone about 20 minutes south of Vegas. Free to visit & popular for quick photos.

    • Hoover Dam

      • Only 45 minutes from Vegas on the Nevada–Arizona border. Tours of the power plant, plus impressive views of Lake Mead.

    • Grand Canyon (West Rim)

      • About 2 hours by car. The West Rim is home to the famous Skywalk (glass bridge over the canyon), run by the Hualapai Tribe.

    • Helicopter Tours

      • Numerous operators (Maverick, Papillon, Sundance) offer trips from Vegas to the Grand Canyon, including landing inside the canyon or quick Strip flyovers at night.

      • Popular 3-4 hour excursions if short on time.

    • Las Vegas Motor Speedway

      • Drive or ride-along in exotic cars, NASCAR racecars, or go-karts. Hosts big events like EDC and NASCAR weekend.

    • Guided Tours from Vegas

      • Many companies offer day tours combining stops like Hoover Dam, West Rim, Seven Magic Mountains, and even short hikes at Red Rock.

      • Options range from luxury SUVs to rugged Pink Jeep Tours.

Sporting Events

Catch the action — pro sports, major events, and where to watch.

    • Event: Colorado Avalanche @ Golden Knights

    • Date: Wednesday, Oct 1, 2025 – 6:00 PM

    • Venue: T‑Mobile Arena on the Strip

    • Event: Home game (opponent and kickoff time to be announced)

    • Date: Monday, Sept 29, 2025

    • Venue: Allegiant Stadium

Transportation – Quick Tips

Navigate the city with ease: your guide to getting around Vegas fast.

    • Widely available on the Strip & Downtown.

    • Look for designated pick-up spots at hotels (most resorts don’t allow curbside pickups on the main road).

    • Tip: Fares on the Strip usually ~$10–$20. Always confirm your driver & car.

    • Free trams connect certain hotels:

      • Mandalay Bay ↔ Luxor ↔ Excalibur

      • Park MGM ↔ Aria ↔ Bellagio

      • The Mirage ↔ Treasure Island

    • Las Vegas Monorail runs from MGM Grand to SAHARA, behind the east side of the Strip (paid, ~$5 per ride).

    • The Strip looks short on a map but is long and hot — allow extra time.

    • Use hotel walkways & bridges to cross Las Vegas Blvd safely.

    • Often unnecessary for strictly Strip stays. Parking is paid at most hotels.

    • Useful for day trips to Red Rock, Hoover Dam, or Grand Canyon.

    • Many excursions include hotel pickup.

    • Check concierge or booking for scheduled stops.

    • Fremont Street is compact & walkable, but if staying on the Strip, take a quick rideshare (10–15 min).

For more questions on this guide list, please see the Concierge in the  Engagement Chapel located in Primrose Hall. 

For a full itinerary on FORGE LAS VEGAS please visit: https://forge.braze.com/2025