The United States is undoubtedly one of the most diverse countries on the planet to visit. It has thriving city metropolises like New York and Chicago, barren desert landscapes in New Mexico and Arizona, and the sprawling snowy tundra of Alaska. However, the most popular destination year after year with both domestic and foreign tourists is the state of Nevada.
Whilst the stunning landscapes and natural sights like Lake Tahoe and the charming history of old mining towns attract their fair share of visitors, the legendary entertainment on offer in Las Vegas attracts the majority of tourists to the state.
If, like millions of others, you’re thinking of making Nevada your next holiday destination, read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting the American state…
Essential Travel Information
Before jumping on the plane, it’s important to sit down and plan your visit wisely. Nevada is a big place with a lot of things to do, and you don’t want to waste any time you have thereby not being fully prepared.
Here are a couple of things to bear in mind before booking your vacation:
- The Best Time to Visit: When you think of Las Vegas you probably envision a sweltering desert oasis where you can walk the streets in shorts and flip-flops before taking refuge in a dazzling casino. Do be aware, though, that the weather in Nevada does vary wildly, with warm summers giving way to cold winters. To get the best weather without the biggest crowds, we’d recommend booking your visit for early spring or late fall.
- Getting Around: This one is more for our foreign readers than anyone else. If you’re traveling to Las Vegas, look into renting a car. Public transport is available, and you can walk in some places, but both options are pretty woeful compared to your typical European city. Nevada is a big state, too, so you’re going to want to have the option to hop in your car and drive about.
- Where to Stay: This depends on what you want to get out of your trip to Nevada. If you’re going for a gambling trip, then the best bet (no pun intended) is to buy accommodation in a resort. The majority of casinos on the strip have their own hotels, but do beware, these are expensive. If you’re not gambling or are simply a thrifty better, the best options are slightly more out of town.
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(Guide to hotels on the Las Vegas strip.)
Gambling in Nevada: What You Need to Know
Even if you’ve never gambled before or have never understood the allure of it, you pretty much have to visit a casino when you go to Nevada. It’s what the state is famous for and, unsurprisingly, as a result of that, is home to some of the best and most impressive casinos on the planet. The Venetian, with its network of canals inspired by the Italian city it takes its name from is an absolute must-visit. Before you go, though, there are a couple of facts that you will need to know.
As with the rest of the US, the age to gamble in Nevada is 21. You’ll also need to be 21 to buy alcohol, so if you haven’t hit that milestone yet, you’ll need to turn your attention elsewhere! Since Nevada is known for its casinos, it is essential to set a budget before you visit as it is easy to get carried away when gambling, especially in the glamorous setting of a Las Vegas casino, so set yourself a monetary budget and stick to it.
Contrary to what you have seen in Hollywood films, there aren’t many dress codes for most casinos. There is no need to turn up in a three-piece suit, just simply wear clothes you are comfortable in. The majority of casinos are quite complex, and because you’re wagering with real money, the worst thing you can do is learn on the job, so read up on the rules before you dive straight into a table game.
(The Venetian is one of the most impressive casinos on the planet.)
Seeing the Sights
Beyond the entertainment Nevada has to offer, it has even better natural sights to see. Three in particular are The Hoover Dam, The Grand Canyon, and The Colorado River, which compare to no other.
The Hoover Dam: One of the marvels of modern engineering, the Hoover dam is an absolute must-visit in Nevada. This marvel is the highest concrete arch-gravity dam within the United States.
The Grand Canyon: Just to the east of Las Vegas and Nevada is the Grand Canyon, which, Although technically in Arizona, is breathtaking. From amazing views to fossils, the Grand Canyon is an indescribable beauty of nature.
The Colorado River: This stunning river weaves through Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California, Baja California, and the Mexican state of Sonora. It’s a stunning natural wonder with a fascinating history.
So, if you are planning a trip to Nevada this year, make sure to experience all it has to offer. It truly is a place for everyone and an experience second to none. From the food to both the natural and man-made landmarks, it will truly be a trip to remember.
