Las Vegas Unwritten Rules: Insider Tips for Tourists

Navigating Tourist Attractions

• 📸 Las Vegas Sign: Skip the long line for a photo; you can get a great shot without waiting.
• 🎭 Street Performers: You are not obligated to pay for photos with impersonators like Elvis or showgirls; politely decline if not interested.
• 🗣️ Claiming 'Local' Status: If you want to avoid unsolicited interactions, simply say you are a local, as many people in Vegas are from out of town.

Casino and Hotel Etiquette

• 💰 Tipping Culture: Be prepared to tip everyone who provides service, including valet, housekeeping, and restaurant/bar staff. Bring plenty of singles and fives.
• 🏨 Resort Fees: These fees are unavoidable if staying on the Strip. Don't try to dispute them; consider signing up for hotel loyalty programs for potential waivers or staying off-strip.
• 🎲 Casino Table Games: Never touch another player's chips or cards. Learn the game rules and payouts (e.g., 3-2 vs. 6-5 blackjack) before joining a table, preferably on practice tables.
• 🎰 Slot Machine Reservations: Do not leave personal items like chairs or drinks to reserve a slot machine; it's no longer an accepted practice, and someone else may take your spot.

Partying and Nightlife

• 🍻 Public Drinking: Open containers (cans, cups) are allowed in public areas like Fremont Street and the Strip, but glass bottles are prohibited.
• 👮 Sloppy Drunks: Avoid excessive intoxication, as security will remove you, and police may be involved if you cause trouble.
• 🍾 Bottle Service: Be aware that advertised prices for bottle service often exclude additional service charges and minimum spending requirements, which can significantly increase the total cost.
• 🛡️ Bouncers and Security: Always be respectful to bouncers and security staff, as they have significant control over entry and removal from venues.

Exploring and Getting Around

• 🍜 International Cuisine: Las Vegas offers authentic and diverse international food options; don't overlook them.
• 🤝 Engage with Locals: Locals are often friendly and willing to offer recommendations for good, affordable places to eat and support local businesses.
• 🚗 Ride Share Pick-ups: On the Strip, casinos have designated, often complicated, ride-share pick-up areas. Plan your route to these spots in advance.
• 🚶 Jaywalking: Jaywalking on the Strip is dangerous and can result in significant fines. Use designated crosswalks, escalators, and walkways.
• ⚠️ Escalator Reliability: Be aware that escalators on the Strip can frequently be out of service, so have a backup plan, especially if you have mobility issues, and look for elevators.