Almost 3.5 million people visited Las Vegas in May of 2023 alone. It’s one of the biggest tourism destinations in the United States, and for good reason – there’s so much to do!
So how do you make this year’s trip the best it can be? We’ve got you covered. Let’s go through how to plan the best Las Vegas trip in 2023.
Where To Stay
Do plenty of research and book your hotel well in advance to get the best possible deals. The city offers a variety of hotels, ranging from luxurious Las Vegas resorts on the Strip to more budget-friendly options downtown.
If you want more time to relax during your trip to Las Vegas, you should definitely consider this collection of resorts.
Entertain Yourself
There are plenty of amazing shows happening in fabulous Las Vegas this year, so make sure you grab your tickets well in advance.
Adele’s residency runs through the fall, but you might have to check resale options in order to get tickets – or just hope you get lucky!
Kelly Clarkson is another hot ticket this year, taking a break from her talk show to perform in Vegas. Usher and U2 are two other big residencies that are happening during 2023.
Country music fans might want to grab seats at Luke Bryan or Carrie Underwood instead. Closer to the end of the year, you’ll be able to see Miranda Lambert or Garth Brooks.
There are also always the old standbys. If you’re planning a bachelorette (or bachelor) party, consider planning an evening at Chippendales.
Cirque Du Soleil always has at least one Vegas show going on. Current options include Mystere, Michael Jackson ONE, Ka, The Beatles Love, and O by Cirque Du Soleil.
Do you like some sleight of hand? Grab tickets for David Copperfield, Criss Angel, or Penn and Teller.
Sports Events in Las Vegas
You might be more of a sports fan. Hockey lovers should take a look at the schedule for the Golden Knights, who play at the T-Mobile Arena.
NFL diehards can take in a Las Vegas Raiders game at Allegiant Stadium. Those who prefer the WNBA should definitely head over to Michelob Ultra Arena for a game.
You can even add the Las Vegas Lights FC to your Las Vegas itinerary if you’re interested in taking in a soccer game. You can find them at Cashman Field, which is in downtown Las Vegas.
Plus, you can head to one of Las Vegas’s sportsbooks to place your bet on the game you plan to watch – or even the whole season!
Gambling in Las Vegas
Of course, a trip to Vegas isn’t complete without a little bit of gambling. That’s what it’s known for, after all.
It can also be a great way to get free stuff! Casinos often provide complimentary perks to players based on their gambling activities.
These can include free drinks, meals, show tickets, or even discounted or free hotel stays. Sign up for the casino’s loyalty program or player’s club to maximize your chances of receiving these perks.
Slot machines are one of the top forms of gambling in Las Vegas. They come in various themes and denominations. You might prefer the penny slots, or you might be more of a high roller. Remember to familiarize yourself with the rules and payout structure of the specific machine you’re playing.
You’ll want to try your hand at the table games, too. You can play popular games like blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, and poker. Different casinos may offer variations of these games, so explore various casinos to figure out what you like best.
Las Vegas boasts numerous poker rooms where you can participate in cash games and tournaments. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, there are options for all skill levels. Casinos like the Bellagio, ARIA, and the Venetian are known for their poker rooms.
You might prefer an older-school approach to gambling. Several casinos in Las Vegas feature dedicated bingo halls where you can enjoy this classic game. Bingo sessions are typically held throughout the day, and you can purchase bingo cards to participate and potentially win cash prizes.
Just don’t go overboard. Set a budget for your gambling, and stick to it – no matter how much fun you’re having!
Get Some Food
You’ll need to eat when you’re on vacation, of course. Luckily, Las Vegas has more than its fair share of world-class restaurants.
If you’re a fan of celebrity chefs, you could spend your entire time in Las Vegas eating there alone. Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen is probably the best known, because of the synonymous television shows. Other delicious options include:
- Tom Colicchio’s Heritage Steak or Craftsteak
- Masaharu Morimoto‘s Morimoto Las Vegas
- Bazaar Meat by Jose Andres
- Giada De Laurentiis’s GIADA
- Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, Cut, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
- Nobu Matsuhisa’s Nobu at Caesar’s Palace, Nobu at Paris Las Vegas and Nobu at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
- Lorene Garcia’s CHICA
- Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse and New Orleans Fish House
If you’re less into celebrity chefs and more into celebrities, there are still many great options for you. Vanderpump Rules fans need to book an evening at Vanderpump a Paris in the hopes they might catch a cast trip in the wake of #Scandoval.
Try one of the many great buffets available when you’re in Las Vegas. The Wicked Spoon in the Cosmopolitan is one of the best options.
Food halls have become increasingly popular in Las Vegas, offering a variety of vendors and cuisines under one roof. Check out Fulton Street Food Hall, Block 16 Urban Food Hall, or the Wynn Food Hall for an assortment of gourmet bites.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Las Vegas’ dessert spots. From gourmet cupcakes and gelato to elaborate milkshakes and decadent pastries, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Book Your Transportation
You need to actually get to Las Vegas, and in today’s world, plane tickets don’t tend to come cheap. Look at all of your options, and consider alternate dates to get a cheaper rate. McCarran International Airport is the most convenient option if you plan to fly in.
Taxis are readily available in Las Vegas. You can find designated taxi stands at the airport and most major hotels. Rideshare services also operate in the city, offering convenient and often more affordable transportation options.
Keep in mind that your rideshare will be spent to a specific location based on what building you’re in – you can’t just call one to any spot on the strip!
If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, you can rent a car at the airport or from rental car agencies located throughout Las Vegas. Many major car rental companies have counters at the airport, making it convenient to pick up and drop off your rental vehicle.
You might be looking for a more luxurious and upscale experience. In that case, you can book private limousines or luxury transportation services. There are various companies in Las Vegas that offer these services, allowing you to travel in style and comfort.
Day Trips
You may not want to spend your whole time in Vegas strolling up and down the strip.
Consider taking a day trip from Las Vegas to explore nearby attractions. The Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Red Rock Canyon are all within driving distance and offer stunning natural beauty.
Approximately an hour northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park features unique sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and vibrant red rock landscapes. It’s a great destination for hiking, photography, and exploring the natural wonders.
Escape the desert heat by heading to Mount Charleston, which is about an hour northwest of Las Vegas. This mountain retreat offers cooler temperatures, hiking trails, scenic drives, and even skiing during the winter months.
Cultural Options
Las Vegas isn’t just about partying and music – there are also plenty of great cultural and historical sites available.
The Neon Museum is one of the most popular options. This unique museum showcases the iconic neon signs that have defined Las Vegas over the years. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of these vintage signs.
Visit the Little Church of the West, one of the oldest wedding chapels in Las Vegas. This charming chapel has hosted many celebrity weddings and offers a glimpse into the city’s wedding culture. And if you feel so inclined, maybe you’ll have your very own ceremony!
Art lovers don’t even have to leave the strip to check out the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. It’s dedicated to presenting exhibitions of renowned artwork from around the world.
It showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and periods, including paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art. The current exhibition, In Bloom, runs until mid-September.
Go Shopping
If you have some spare room in your budget, you can pick up some great swag during your trip.
Whether you plan to buy something or not, make sure you check out The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. Inspired by the canals of Venice, The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian offers an elegant shopping experience.
Here, you can find high-end fashion brands, luxury jewelry, and unique stores, all within a stunning setting.
There’s not just shopping to do, either. There are constant street performances for you to take in while you stroll through the mall. You can even ride a gondola down the canal, just like you can in Venice!
If you’re looking for something a little less upscale, head over to the Fashion Show Mall. Situated across from Wynn Las Vegas, Fashion Show Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in Las Vegas. It boasts a mix of popular fashion brands, department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom, and a variety of dining options.
Maybe you’re looking for deals. In that case, the Las Vegas Premium Outlets are worth a visit. They feature a collection of designer and brand-name stores offering substantial savings. The North location is situated downtown, while the South location is closer to the Strip.
Go Out
Las Vegas is also a legendary place to party. It’s famous for its world-class nightclubs. These attract top DJs and offer energetic dance floors, impressive light shows, and VIP experiences.
Popular nightclubs on the Strip include Omnia at Caesars Palace, XS at Encore, Marquee at The Cosmopolitan, and Hakkasan at MGM Grand.
If you’re not ready to go that hardcore, Las Vegas has a plethora of bars and lounges catering to different tastes. From upscale cocktail bars to casual sports bars and speakeasies, there is something for everyone.
Check out The Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan, Skyfall Lounge at Delano Las Vegas, and Herbs & Rye for unique bar experiences.
If you’re more into themes, the Millennium Fandom Bar or The Nerd are perfect for any geeks out there. Millennium even offers trivia events!
Those who would like to pretend they’re on a completely different vacation should check out Frankies Tiki Room or the Golden Tiki to live their best Tiki life.
For the best of both worlds, head to the Underground at the Mob Museum. You can explore the museum first and then sit down for some drinks!
Plan Your Las Vegas Trip in 2023 Today
There are so many options when it comes to planning a Vegas trip in 2023. Start with this guide, consider your interests, and you’ll be well on your way to the perfect trip.
Do you want more advice on planning your next vacation? We’ve got you covered. Read through some of our other great travel guides and so much more.