9 of the Best Neighborhoods in Las Vegas and How To Visit

Even though it might be a bit cliche and a little cheesy, the Las Vegas Strip is anything but boring. Flooded in bright lights, giant marquees, over-the-top hotels, and, of course, casinos, Sin City’s main drag is always welcoming newcomers. This includes both tourists and businesses, like celeb-led restaurants and attractions like AREA15, a modern and immersive art experience that makes it a must-see destination every time you visit. This is where you'll find Cirque du Soleil productions, big-name residencies, comedy shows, and magic acts.

When you think of vintage Vegas, you’re probably envisioning downtown. This is where you’ll find historic casinos like the Golden Nugget and Binion's Gambling Hall & Hotel (formerly Binion's Horseshoe), as well as “Vegas Vic,” that famous neon cowboy sign.

It’s also home to the Fremont Street Experience, a 5-block stretch of shops, restaurants, casinos, and the Slotzilla Zip Line that’s covered by a vaulted canopy. Plus, the Clark County Marriage License Bureau is located here, which explains the numerous wedding chapels.

The Fremont East Entertainment District sits adjacent to the Fremont Street Experience and features trendy bars, restaurants, and an outdoor shopping mall built from repurposed shipping containers called Container Park.

In addition to old-school casinos offering penny slots, you’ll find museums and sites like the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, and the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park, which contains the remains of an adobe fort built by Mormon missionaries.

Unlike the tourist-heavy feel of the Strip, the city’s Arts District is one of the local favorites in Las Vegas, serving as a hub for culture, art, and dining. It’s home to edgy galleries (many housed in the Arts Factory), boutique shopping, and colorful murals. Also known as the 18b Arts District (in reference to its original 18 blocks), the area doesn’t have the usual gambling, restaurant chains, or neon lights. Instead, you’ll find antiques, breweries, and street art, which you can discover more of on a guided art and design tour.

Related: 10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Las Vegas

Henderson is so close to Vegas (it’s about 20 minutes by car from downtown) that it sometimes feels like just another corner of the city, with a range of attractions all its own. It’s a good starting point if you’re interested in spreading your wings and visiting more local communities in Las Vegas Take a tour of the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, which has a botanical cactus garden, or explore the Clark County Museum to learn about the history of southern Nevada and view a collection of restored historic buildings.

Outdoor enthusiasts can rent paddle boats on nearby Lake Las Vegas. You can also use Henderson as a jumping-off point for trips to Lake Mead, Valley of Fire State Park, Grand Canyon, and the Hoover Dam.

A popular residential area outside Vegas, Summerlin has more homes than hotels. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing here for tourists. Red Rock Canyon is just a short drive from the edge of town, making it a good home base for nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy the desert sun. Explore the park with a guided hiking, biking, or driving tour.

Plus, in downtown Summerlin, you’ll find a massive shopping and dining complex and the Las Vegas Ballpark, where you can catch a minor league ballgame.

Located southeast of Las Vegas, Boulder City derives much of its identity from its proximity to Hoover Dam. Take advantage of this convenient location and book rafting, boating, and kayaking excursions on Lake Mead. Boulder City Municipal Airport also offers skydiving experiences for those looking to up the thrill factor.

As for low-key activities, hang out in Hemenway Park, where bighorn sheep meander down from the mountains and graze on the grass, and visit the historic Boulder Dam Hotel, which has a free walk-through museum dedicated to the history of the Hoover Dam.

Centered around the University of Nevada and located just off the Strip, the University District trades in the bells and whistles of Sin City for the youthful vibes of a college campus. The school’s cultural attractions include the Marjorie Barrick Museum, home to a xeric garden that’s designed to reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation, the Cox Pavilion, and the Thomas & Mack Center, where you can catch a concert. Here, you’ll also find casual coffee shops and diners, which offer a refreshing break from Vegas hotel buffets.

It’s only an hour’s drive from central Las Vegas, but Mount Charleston may seem like it's on another planet in comparison to the glitz and glam of Sin City. This alpine village offers a peaceful escape or Las Vegas day trip for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

During the winter months, downhill skiing is the big draw, with plenty of gentle slopes for tubing as well. In summer, hikers tackle the area’s scenic trails. Stop at Charleston Lodge to take in the forest pines, rocky landscapes, and crisp mountain air. Accommodation options range from rustic lodge cabins to alpine resorts to RV-friendly campgrounds.