Why Las Vegas?

Vegas doesn't pretend to be anything else—it's a 24/7 playground where normal rules got tossed. The casinos are the point, but there's more now. Restaurants from chefs who wouldn't touch this place twenty years ago. Pool parties that cost what concert tickets used to. Shows from Celine Dion to comedians to magic acts that mess with your head. The Strip keeps tearing down landmarks to build something bigger. Outside town, Red Rock Canyon and Hoover Dam are right there if you need a break. Booking affordable flights to Las Vegas is easy—every airline flies here, competition is brutal, and deals show up constantly because the city needs you here spending money.

What to See and Do

Walk the Strip once, even if you think it's dumb. Bellagio fountains, the fake Eiffel Tower, the Venetians' indoor canals—it's ridiculous, and you should see it. Fremont Street downtown is old Vegas, covered by an LED screen and full of cheaper tables and stranger people. The shows are actually good. Multiple Cirque productions, or grab tickets if someone you like is doing a residency. Penn & Teller, David Copperfield, Blue Man Group—still here because they're still worth it. The food got way better. Hell's Kitchen, Carbone, and José Andrés spots—Vegas pulled in real talent. Even some casino buffets aren't the disasters they used to be. Some. Need out? Drive to Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire. Both under an hour, both prove nature still exists past the AC and slot machines.

When to Go

March to May and September to November have tolerable weather. June through August hits 110+ every day—pool season if you're into that, hell, if you're walking around. Winter (December to February) is mild, and you'll score the best flight deals then. Skip New Year's Eve unless you like paying triple for the same room.

Getting There

McCarran Airport is basically on the Strip—you see the casinos landing. Rideshares cost $15- 25 to most hotels. Some places still run shuttles. For cheap flights to Las Vegas, stay flexible with dates and compare everyone. Budget airlines hammer this route, and even the big carriers discount it because getting bodies in seats matters more than fare class here. Vegas is Vegas. Show up knowing that and you'll have a way better time.