There is no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas. In between the food, fun, and shows, there are also a few things to avoid doing in Sin City. Whether you travel to the historic desert for a day trip, a long weekend, or business, you want to enjoy your time.
The City has done a good job at creating a destination unlike any other. However, it’s easy to become caught up in ventures outside of the destination’s purview.
Let’s take a look at seven activities to avoid in Las Vegas.
1. Driving
Las Vegas measures 83 square miles. The Strip is a 2.5-mile walk. If you plan to hang out on The Strip, avoid driving. In Vegas, you can travel from one hotel to another in style by ordering a car service or limousine.
When you plan to visit landmarks outside of The Strip, you can still hire a car service for the day. The service will drop and pick you up at Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon National Park, or Red Rock Canyon, especially if you plan to hike.
If you find yourself in an accident, vehicle, or otherwise, speak with an injury attorney in Las Vegas who will guide you through your rights.
2. Buying from Street Vendors
Street vendors continue finding their way onto the streets of major American cities. Moreover, tourists and locals continue buying from them – sometimes you can’t walk away from the deals.
However, avoid buying from street vendors; it only encourages them.
Instead, check out the hotel gift shops. Then, you won’t need to doubt the quality of the merchandise. You also won’t receive a citation if you’re caught purchasing from street vendors.
3. Jaywalking
It’s never a good idea to jaywalk in any city. If a local authority spots the law breaker, they will issue a traffic citation to the offender.
Authorities report that Sin City has seen an increase in traffic accidents including those involving pedestrians. LVMPD Traffic Bureau Captain Jeff Coday pointed out in 2023 that crossing at undesignated spots gave rise to pedestrian-involved accidents.
Although it seems inconvenient, avoid jaywalking. Instead, find a crosswalk or designated crossing area and wait for the signal to cross.
4. Over-Gambling
The number one gambling rule all individuals must remember is that the house always wins. Eventually, the house will recover its losses.
Therefore, avoid over-gambling while visiting Sin City. Some industry insiders believe that casinos expect gamblers to lose $500 per trip. The expected losses pays for the comped drinks, rooms, and meals.
At least you’ll have fun while losing is the logic that some strategists employ.
Nonetheless, avoid over-gambling. Establish a limit before your first bet and stick to it.
5. Over-Partying
On the same note, avoid over-partying. The alcohol flows freely in Vegas. However, the hangover will stop your fun in its tracks.
Those who travel to Sin City during the warmer season will find that there is something to enjoy morning, noon, and night. In the summer, the pools open and provide brunch with drinks.
During the midday hours, sightsee and enjoy a scrumptious lunch. Then, in the evening, enjoy a tasty meal before watching a show and heading toward a nightclub.
Vegas provides non-stop itineraries. To enjoy them to the fullest, skip over-partying. You’ll avoid hangovers and sleep enough to recharge for the next day.
6. Posting to Social Media
The “What Happens Here, Stays Here” campaign launched in 2003, well before entrepreneurs launched today’s social media platforms. Research conducted by the Las Vegas tourism department and R&R Partners found that visitors sought freedom.
Visiting Vegas allowed tourists to see, eat, and play without prying eyes on them. Social media changed that, and it impacted the City’s tourism numbers.
Thus, when visiting Sin City, avoid posting every moment and the moments of others on social media. Wait until you return home. Even then, avoid TMI.
7. Enjoying the Hotel Mini-Bar
In the 2010s, the popularity of hotel mini bars rose and fell sharply. The markup for the items in these bars ranges from a few dollars to several. You could pay $80 for a bag of chocolates at some hotels.
Consumer sentiment does drive demand. Thus, hotels have no choice but to make adjustments. Given that you can find complimentary drinks in Las Vegas, skip the drinks in the mini-bars.
If you have a hankering for a snack or caffeine, consider ordering and having them delivered to your room instead.
Conclusion
When the Las Vegas tourism board and its ad partner found that visitors sought freedom, they hit the nail on the head. To make the most of your trip, avoid over-gambling and over-partying. Take advantage of the transportation options and stay safe by practicing common sense.