18 Traveling to Las Vegas Tips: A Mom’s Survival Guide to Having Fun in Sin City
Las Vegas, known as the entertainment capital, is an iconic destination that can be overwhelming for first-timers, especially if you’re just 18. World Las Vegas, with its status as the entertainment capital of the world, offers an extensive variety of experiences, from luxury accommodations to diverse dining options and sporting events. We know it can feel tricky navigating Sin City when you’re old enough to travel independently but not quite old enough for casinos and clubs.
With careful planning and knowing where you can go, Las Vegas offers plenty of exciting experiences and luxury resorts for those on their first visit and young adults who aren’t yet 21.
Preparing for your ultimate guide to first Vegas trip is all about setting realistic expectations and finding the right activities. We’ve gathered some helpful tips to make your journey amazing without running into age restrictions that might dampen your experience.
From comfortable walking shoes to incredible shows and museums, there’s a whole world of Vegas waiting beyond the casino floor!
Why Visit Las Vegas
Las Vegas, affectionately known as Sin City, is the ultimate playground for adults. This dazzling desert oasis is a top destination for entertainment, leisure, and adventure. Picture this: neon lights flashing, dice rolling, and the sweet sound of slot machines singing their siren song. Whether you’re a high-roller or just looking for a luxurious escape, Vegas has something to offer.
For those who crave a bit of pampering, the city’s luxury resorts boast world-class spas, high-end boutiques, and gourmet restaurants that will make your taste buds dance. But Vegas isn’t just about the glitz and glamour. It’s also a fantastic jumping-off point for outdoor adventures. Imagine ATV tours through the rugged terrain, hiking in the stunning Red Rock Canyon, or even a helicopter tour over the iconic Hoover Dam.
And let’s not forget the nightlife! From world-class shows to endless dining options, Las Vegas truly is the entertainment capital of the world. So, whether you’re here to try your luck at the casinos or explore the great outdoors, Vegas promises an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit Las Vegas
When it comes to planning your trip to Las Vegas, timing is everything. The city is a year-round destination, but the weather and crowd levels can vary significantly. If you’re looking for mild weather and smaller crowds, spring (February to April) is your sweet spot. The temperatures are comfortable, making it perfect for exploring the Strip or taking a day trip to nearby attractions.
December is another great time to visit if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle. The city is less crowded, and you might even catch some festive holiday decorations. However, if you’re a fan of the heat, summer in Vegas is an experience like no other. Just be prepared for temperatures soaring over 100°F (38°C). Winter, on the other hand, offers cooler temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (16°C), making it ideal for those who prefer a more temperate climate.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Las Vegas depends on what you want to do. If you’re here for a specific show or event, plan accordingly. Otherwise, consider your weather preferences and crowd tolerance to make the most of your Vegas adventure.
1) Pack your sassiest outfit for club nights
When it comes to Vegas nightlife, we’re all about embracing our inner divas! Las Vegas clubs have dress codes that expect you to dress to impress, so this is your chance to wear that outfit you’ve been saving for a special occasion.
Think fancy dinners, bottle service, and dancing the night away – this calls for your cutest dress, highest heels (if you can walk in them!), or that sparkly top you love. Don’t be afraid to go a little extra!
If you’re traveling with friends, why not coordinate your outfits? It’s super fun for photos and makes your group stand out in the best way possible.
2) Keep those comfy shoes handy, you’ll be walking a lot!
Ladies, we cannot stress this enough – your feet will thank you for bringing comfortable shoes to Vegas! The Strip is deceptively huge, and we’ll end up walking waaaaay more than we plan to.
Trust us, we’ve made the mistake of wearing cute heels all day in Vegas, and it was a disaster by dinner time! The casinos alone are massive, and walking from one hotel to another can feel like a mini marathon.
You’ll walk A LOT in Vegas, so those comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Many experienced Vegas travelers recommend bringing the walking shoes you find most comfortable.
We always pack at least two pairs of comfy options to rotate. Your Instagram pics might not feature your sensible footwear, but your happy feet will make the whole trip more enjoyable!
3) Hydration is key—chug that H2O!
Las Vegas heat is no joke, friends! We’ve learned the hard way that staying hydrated in the desert is absolutely crucial for enjoying your trip. The dry heat will sneak up on you fast!
Try to drink additional water in your hotel room each morning and night after using public transportation . Trust us, this simple habit will save you from that nasty vacation headache!
When you’re out having fun, request a glass of water with every cocktail you order. And hey, setting a timer on your phone as a drinking reminder isn’t overkill – it’s smart traveling!
Don’t forget to munch on water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon and cucumber. They’re refreshing snacks that help keep the hydration flowing!
4) Plan for those resort fees, they’re sneaky!
Girl, let us tell you about these sneaky resort fees in Vegas! We nearly fell over when we saw them added to our bill on our last trip. Most hotels charge these daily fees that aren’t included in the advertised room rate.
These fees can add $25-$50 per night to your stay! The worst part? They’re mandatory even if you don’t use the amenities they supposedly cover. WiFi, gym access, local calls—things we barely used!
One hack we love is joining hotel loyalty programs to sometimes get these fees waived. We’ve also heard about the $50 trick at check-in where you might get lucky with a nice clerk!
Always budget for these fees in advance so you’re not shocked when you check out. Trust us, your wallet will thank you!
5) Schedule your show tickets in advance to avoid FOMO
Let’s be real – nobody wants to arrive in Vegas only to discover that Adele or Cirque du Soleil is completely sold out! We’ve been there, and that FOMO hits hard.
For popular shows, we recommend booking tickets in advance directly from the show’s website. This is especially true if you have your heart set on specific performances!
The earlier you buy, the better seats you’ll snag in your chosen section. Plus, you won’t waste precious Vegas time standing in ticket lines or frantically searching for last-minute options.
For most Cirque shows, booking 1-3 weeks ahead is our sweet spot – just enough time to secure tickets without stressing!
6) Budget those bucks; Vegas can drain you faster than a slot machine.
Let’s be real – Vegas is notorious for emptying wallets faster than we can say “jackpot!” But we’ve got some tricks up our sleeves to help you stretch those dollars and visit during the week for fewer crowds.
Order champagne and get a room if you want to feel fancy without the fancy price tag. Trust us, there are ways to live large on a small budget!
For gambling on a budget, try the penny slots at the bar where you can bet small amounts (like $0.50) and still get those free drinks flowing your way! Remember, Lady Luck can be unpredictable, so recognize when to stop gambling to avoid losing your winnings.
Tip your cocktail waitress well – around $2 per drink, and she’ll keep them coming. It’s way cheaper than buying drinks outright.
7) Off-Strip adventure? Rent a car for max flexibility!
Las Vegas is so much more than just the Strip, with stunning attractions like red rock canyon waiting to be explored ! Trust us, getting a rental car opens up a whole new world of possibilities for your Vegas adventure.
Want to check out the stunning Red Rock Canyon or even take a trip to the grand canyon? You’ll need wheels! You’ll need wheels! These natural wonders are just a short drive away and absolutely worth it.
We love exploring the off-Strip casinos too! Places like Red Rock Casino and Green Valley Ranch offer a more relaxed vibe with better gambling odds (score!).
Pro tip: Save some cash by renting from a non-airport location if possible. Those airport fees add up, mama!
8) Navigate like a pro with Uber or Lyft
Getting around Vegas doesn’t have to be a nightmare, ladies! We’ve found that ride-sharing apps are total lifesavers in Sin City.
The Las Vegas Monorail is also a convenient transportation option along the Strip, operating multiple times a day with relatively quick intervals between trains.
For airport to Strip transportation, taxis might be your best bet if you want to catch some live music on the way. But once you’re in the heart of Vegas, Uber and Lyft are our go-to options!
Just be careful about those surge prices during busy times—they can sneak up on you faster than those extra cocktails!
For Strip-to-airport trips, Uber tends to be more wallet-friendly than taxis.
Want a fun photo at the Welcome sign? Some drivers are totally cool with quick photo stops if you just ask nicely!
9) Snap those selfies at iconic spots like the Bellagio Fountains!
Las Vegas is a selfie paradise, girls! We absolutely love the Bellagio Fountains for that perfect Instagram moment. The water show makes the most magical backdrop!
Don’t stop there! Vegas has tons of Instagrammable photo spots throughout the city.
Many hotel pools offer day passes if you’re not staying there – hello, gorgeous pool pics!
We recommend visiting popular spots early morning to avoid crowds.
Nothing ruins a selfie among the neon lights like twenty strangers in the background, right?
Remember to charge your phone before heading out. Trust us, you’ll be snapping pics non-stop in this photogenic city!
10) Beat jet lag by arriving a day early at Harry Reid International Airport. You got this!
We all know jet lag can be a total vacation killer! Trust us, arriving in Vegas a day early is a game-changer for your body clock.
Getting light in your eyes upon arrival, especially in the morning, helps reset your internal clock. We love this hack!
Try to power through on arrival day and stay awake until a normal bedtime. Yes, it’s tough, but so worth it!
Avoid taking naps when you first arrive.
Instead, grab some water, do some light exercise, and embrace that extra day to adjust before the real fun begins!
11) Divide and conquer the buffet lines—strategy is key!
Let’s be real, Vegas buffets can be overwhelming! We always make a quick lap around the entire buffet before grabbing a plate. This helps us spot the good stuff without filling up on basic items first.
We’ve learned that those buffet pants are a must-have! Stretchy waistbands are your BFF when tackling these food mountains.
Split up with your travel buddies to tackle different lines, then share the goodies! This trick saves so much time, especially at popular stations.
Remember, you probably won’t actually beat the buffet financially, but with our strategy, you’ll definitely get the most yummy bang for your buck!
12) Don’t let dehydration cramp your vibe in the desert heat
Las Vegas heat is no joke, friends! We’ve learned the hard way that staying hydrated is super important when you’re exploring this desert playground.
Start hydrating before you even feel thirsty. Once you’re already dehydrated, it’s hard to catch up, especially when you’re out in the scorching heat. Drink plenty of water starting days before your trip!
We love to mix it up with sports drinks or electrolyte tablets to replace what we lose through sweating. It’s like giving your body a little extra love when it needs it most.
Don’t forget that fresh fruits and veggies can help you stay hydrated too! They’re nature’s little hydration helpers.
13) Real talk: Avoid booking on Vegas’ busiest weekends.
Ladies, let’s be honest – timing is everything when planning your Vegas getaway! We’ve learned the hard way that some weekends are absolute madness in Sin City.
Major holidays, big conventions, and fight weekends turn Vegas into a packed sardine can with sky-high hotel rates. Trust us, nobody wants to pay triple for that room at the Bellagio!
We suggest checking the convention calendar before booking. Those business folks take over the Strip sometimes!
Mid-week stays are our secret weapon for avoiding crowds and scoring better deals.
If you’re flexible with your dates, you’ll thank yourself when you’re not waiting forever for restaurants and actually enjoying yourself!
14) Scope out free attractions; your wallet will thank you.
Las Vegas isn’t just about emptying your pockets! We’ve discovered so many amazing free things to do in Las Vegas that’ll keep your budget happy.
The iconic Fountains of Bellagio are a must-see water ballet that’ll leave you in awe. We always make time to watch at least one show!
Don’t miss the free circus acts at Circus Circus. Our kids absolutely love these, and honestly, we do too!
Fremont Street offers free concerts and an epic light show that’s totally worth checking out. We’ve made some of our favorite Vegas memories here without spending a dime!
15) Treat your taste buds with famous chefs’ restaurants.
Las Vegas is a food lover’s dream with a wide variety of dining options ! We’re talking celebrity chef heaven, where you can taste the magic created by Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri, and Giada De Laurentiis all in one trip. How amazing is that?!
You can actually take a celebrity chef food tour and sample a bunch of different restaurants in just a few hours. It’s like a food adventure with star power!
We’ve seen so many fellow moms raving about these spots on social media, including the luxurious wynn! Some people even plan their entire Vegas trips around trying different celebrity chef restaurants!
Make a reservation ahead of time – these hot spots fill up fast! Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this splurge. #WorthEveryCalorie
16) Feeling lucky? Research casino games to avoid rookie moves.
Hey mommas, we know some of you might want to try your luck at the Vegas casinos, but don’t forget to also explore the amazing food option ! Trust us, it’s way more fun when you know what you’re doing.
Slot machines are the easiest option for beginners – just feed in your bills and start spinning. Buffalo is a great starter game!
For better odds, we recommend checking out Craps, Blackjack, or Baccarat, and then continue the party afterward! These games give you more bang for your buck!
Before your trip, why not practice gambling online for free? This way you’ll feel confident when you hit the casino floor.
Remember to set a budget and stick to it, mama!
17) Plan afternoon breaks; save your energy for evenings!
Vegas nights are magical, but they’re looong! That’s why we absolutely swear by scheduling afternoon breaks at your hotel.
Trust us on this one – the desert heat can totally drain you before the fun even starts!
Staying hydrated is super important too since booze and heat are a recipe for exhaustion.
We love taking a mid-day dip in the pool or sneaking in a quick nap around 3-5pm. This little recharge will give you the energy to dance all night, hit the casinos, or enjoy those amazing late-night shows Vegas is famous for!
18) Be a little spontaneous, it’s Vegas after all!
Vegas is the perfect place to throw caution to the wind and embrace spontaneity! We’ve found that some of our best Vegas memories came from unplanned adventures.
Did someone invite you to a pool party? Go! See an interesting show with last-minute tickets? Grab them! That’s the beauty of Vegas – it’s built for spontaneous trips and unexpected fun.
Just make sure you’ve got a charged phone and a buddy system in place. We always say the Vegas motto should be “prepared for anything, planned for nothing!”
Remember, sometimes the most magical Vegas moments happen when you just say “yes” to whatever entertainment opportunity presents itself. That fountain-view terrace might turn into an impromptu dance party with new friends!
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Finding the perfect place to stay in Las Vegas is all about matching your style and budget. The Strip is the heart of the action, home to iconic hotels like Caesars Palace, the MGM Grand, and the Bellagio. These luxury resorts offer top-notch amenities, from lavish pools to world-class dining, ensuring you feel like a VIP.
If you’re looking for a more vibrant and eclectic vibe, downtown Las Vegas is the place to be. With its lively nightlife and entertainment options, you’ll never run out of things to do. Plus, it’s a bit more budget-friendly compared to the Strip.
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Wynn Las Vegas and the Fontainebleau Las Vegas are top contenders. These resorts offer unparalleled service, exquisite dining, and stunning accommodations that will make your stay unforgettable.
But don’t worry if you’re on a tighter budget. There are plenty of off-Strip options and nearby neighborhoods that offer great value without sacrificing comfort. No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be close to all the excitement and magic that Las Vegas has to offer.
Navigating the Strip
The Las Vegas Strip can be tricky to explore, so having a solid game plan with the help of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, which offers various transportation options in Las Vegas and its surrounding areas, is essential!
Stay Hydrated Like a Pro
OMG, the Vegas heat is NO JOKE, friends! We always carry a cute refillable water bottle because buying bottled water on the Strip is highway robbery (like $5-8 per bottle… yikes!).
Most casinos in the city have water fountains tucked away near restrooms where you can refill for free. Score!
Some hotels even offer free water stations in their lobbies. The Cosmopolitan and Bellagio are total lifesavers in this department!
Pro tip: Adding electrolyte packets to your water is a game-changer, especially if you enjoyed a few cocktails the night before. Vegas hangovers are brutal, but staying hydrated can save your whole day!
Footwear: Your New BFF
Ladies, we know those cute heels are calling your name, but trust us – comfy shoes are EVERYTHING on the Strip! Those casino floors are massive, and distances between landmarks are deceptively far.
We always pack:
Cushioned sneakers for daytime exploring
One pair of cute-but-comfy sandals with support
Blister bandages (just in case!)
When walking the crowded Strip, stick to the right side of walkways and move with purpose. Nothing’s worse than tourist traffic jams!
Remember: Casino layouts are deliberately confusing! We use hotel apps with indoor maps to avoid getting lost in the labyrinth of slot machines. Total sanity-saver!
Legal Tips for the Under-21 Crowd
Heading to visit Vegas before your 21st birthday? We’ve got you covered! There’s still plenty of fun to be had, but you’ll need to know some important rules to avoid awkward situations.
Underage Venues to Check Out
Let’s be real—Vegas isn’t just about gambling and drinking! There are tons of amazing spots where age is just a number.
The Strip is packed with Instagram-worthy attractions, like caesars palace, that welcome everyone. You can take selfies at the Bellagio fountains or explore the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens without showing ID!
Shopping is totally fair game too, especially in downtown las vegas where you can find unique boutiques! Places like the Forum Shops at Caesars and the Grand Canal Shoppes don’t check IDs, and they’re super cool hangout spots.
For entertainment, catch family-friendly shows like Cirque du Soleil performances and join in on the party .
Many Vegas hotels and most resorts lso have awesome pools where teens can chill (but check first—some are 21+ only).
Adventure seekers can try indoor skydiving at Vegas Indoor Skydiving or the thrill rides at the top of the Stratosphere in this vibrant city . So fun!
The 411 on Casinos for Teens
Here’s the deal with casinos—if you’re under 21, you can walk through casino areas but you can’t stop and hang out.
Security is super strict about this! You need to keep moving along designated pathways.
Don’t even think about sitting at slot machines or gaming tables if you’re underage.
Security guards are literally everywhere and they’re trained to spot young faces.
When it comes to ID, especially after flying into harry reid international airport always carry your actual government-issued ID. Even if your license says “under 21” on it, that’s totally fine as long as it’s valid!
Most restaurants inside casinos are totally fine for teens, especially during daytime hours.
But be aware that after certain hours (usually around 9 PM), some dining areas become 21+ only.
