Whether you’re a first timer or frequent flyer to the city of sin, let a Battle Born (our State moto) native show you the ropes and get ready to see Vegas in a whole new light.

I was born in Las Vegas, Nevada in 1985 when it was still quite a small dusty town and the strip was about half the size it is now. I remember going into town for occasions, ie family visiting, holiday buffet dinners or sneaking into big hotel swimming pools, and all the glitz and glamour was enamouring but also just a part of normal life for me. As I became an adult that could actually take part in all the devilish delights I started to see a real divide in what the tourists do in Vegas and what we locals get up to and although it’s all fantastic, the latter is just…more appealing to me.

Now I’m going to break down my treasure map of Vegas into two categories: ‘On the Strip’ and ‘On the outskirts’. Take note for your next trip!

ON THE STRIP

Artwork by Mitchell McClenney available to purchase here.

Head to the northern section of the strip and step into the ultimate locals hangout, The Peppermill. Enter and go left to the Fireside lounge. Sit comfortably around a bubbling water fountain with flames (yes fire on water!) while you sip your way through an array of colorful cocktails that probably belong on a beach in Acapulco and get your hands greasy with a large and I mean LARGE selection of deep fried finger foods piled as high as your head. Hey, you only live once! Enjoy an eclectic mix of usually 90’s and 2000’s music videos displayed on small tv screens throughout. It’s a perfect pre-game stop. Just perfect.
Next, head across the street to the Circus Circus hotel and casino. Be sure to have a good buzz going in because it’s a wonderfully seedy affair. The playing tables are much looser than on the main strip which is always a bonus but the real excitement is the carnival games in the midway upstairs. Grab yourself a yarder (an alcohol slushy filled large plastic drinking receptacle that comes in wild shapes and sizes like a guitar or leg with fishnets) and traipse from balloon darts to ring toss to rubber chicken fling all night long. What ever will you do with the gigantic stuffed minion you’ve scored? Fingers crossed for an empty seat on your flight home.
Dino’s Lounge is just up the road and you will definitely be the only non local here if you dare. It’s a bar with an edge, a delightful edge though. There’s karaoke and amazing pizza delivered from next door when you order. As I recall last time I was there it was a busy night and bushy 70’s porn was being projected onto the walls. So yeah, edge.
Old Las Vegas aka Fremont Street is an entire night out in itself. In recent years it’s been slightly gentrified but still maintains it’s historical value where it counts and the new hipstery joints are pretty cool. Start at the Plaza Hotel & Casino and work your way down this glorious mini strip of neon and blinking bulbs that’ll take you back to the good ol’ days of the Rat Pack, Elvis and Wayne Newton. Beauty Bar is one of my old haunts and still my favorite little nook near the bottom of Fremont.

Viewing the cocktail menu at The Peppermill, Fireside Lounge

ON THE OUTSKIRTS

The ultimate hangover cure. Almost every morning in Vegas feels like Christmas morning with the excitement of hopping in the car and heading to Egg Works. It’s part of our daily routine and is the perfect antidote to a wild night out. The menu, MASSIVE, the food, INSANELY GOOD, the service, super quick and always warm and cheerful. And it’s not just breakfast. They have pretty much any lunch item you can dream of as well. There are a few locations so before you shlep into a super commercial Denny’s or IHOP, consider something which is a bit more special.

A tale of two Tikis. There are two incredible tiki bars tucked away just off the northern end of the Strip that feel like you’ve stumbled into a hidden bar on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland. Frankie’s Tiki Room and The Golden Tiki. Frosty tropical drinks sure to knock you sideways after just two; fun, yet beguiling, nautical decor and crackling records spinning oldie tunes you’ve probably never heard before. Both bars can get busy later in the night so get there early or call to book an area. Ahoy maytee!

The South Point. This hotel and casino is placed wayyy at the most southern end of Las Vegas Blvd and is a locals paradise when it comes to gambling. Expect no frills, very loose slots and tables and unexpectedly good grub (highly recommend Silverado Steak House, Michael’s, Primarily Prime Rib, Big Sur Oyster Bar and Coronado Cafe). We actually stay here often and it’s quite nice being away from all the marauding packs of Vegas party animals you find on the main strip. Rooms are decently priced and taxis readily available to get you anywhere though you might end up getting real comfortable staying in. There’s also a movie theater and bowling alley for extra entertainment.
Station Casinos. There are a variety of these dotted all around Vegas each with their own theme and much like the South Point it’s where the locals go for great deals, big wins and family fun. Even if you’re an outsider you will still be welcomed with that classic friendly Las Vegas spirit. Ps, cocktail service while you play is frequent even though it’s free, these are very generous casinos.
Nature calling. About 45 minutes drive from the Strip are two natural wonders sure to cleanse your tarnished soul, Red Rock Canyon and Mt. Charleston. Drive the Red Rock loop to marvel at the vibrant shades of red and pink canyons then pull into any of the many trail heads for a quick or long hike into the rocks and cacti. Mt. Charleston, just a smidge further away, is more of a green woodsy escape. Lots more hikes, a fabulous restaurant and in the winter, SNOW. Yes, snow in Vegas! And enough of it to ski, snowboard and inner tube. See my post on Mount Charleston Lodge for more info!

A king sized breakfast at Egg Works! Their signature diablo potatoes are a must have.

Enjoy a pineapple whip at The Golden Tiki.

Do Vegas like a Local