Las Vegas is one of the most intoxicating U.S. cities to visit. But with JohnHart offices in the Las Vegas area, we’re in the business of helping those who see Vegas as more than a tourist spot. Sure, it’s a city with a thriving hospitality industry, to say the least. But at the end of the day, the card dealers, showgirls, and bartenders need a place to call home. There’s nothing wrong with looking like a tourist; especially in a city like Las Vegas. But how do you blend in with the Las Vegas locals if you’re trying to keep a low profile? Here are just a few ways the tourists stand out. Note: It goes without saying that it’s not the locals screaming, “Woooo, Vegas!” at every opportunity.
Misunderstanding the Scale of the City
The layout of Las Vegas streets is pretty simple. In fact, it’s this basic grid that earned the city’s recent Formula One track design some criticism. This simplicity can also cause some problems for tourists who haven’t done their research.
Just glancing at a map of Sin City can create the impression that its most iconic destinations are closely situated. Because of this, tourists are prone to attempting ludicrous jaunts like walking from the Strip to Fremont Street. Add in those triple-digit weather summers and you’ve got the recipe for deep regret.
You’re going to be doing a lot of walking no matter how you plan it. But a stroll from the Strip to Fremont Street takes you across several miles. Regardless of the availability of ridesharing, it’s a rookie mistake made daily.
Even walking a relatively short distance, like the Rio to the Strip, can be a grueling affair. Between the punishing weather and the encampments at the Las Vegas Freeway overpass, it’s a risk Las Vegas locals know to avoid. But with a bit of planning, you can find ways to map a mostly air conditioned route across the Strip. The southeast side is less ideal for these logistics though.
Over and Underpreparing for Vegas Conditions
If you want to forego the blistered feet and broken heels of long walks, you may decide to rent a car. But renting a car with no plan to leave your immediate area is another rookie mistake. Ridesharing options, including old school cabs, are still plentiful enough. Save the rentals for when you’re really ready to explore the city in all its depth.
You’ll also find a lot of tourists venturing on those seemingly interminable walks without proper preparations. For the Las Vegas locals, these precautions are common sense. Sun beating down in a cloudless sky? Bring the sunscreen. Exploring the area on foot? Save the heels for something less strenuous. But shifts in Las Vegas weather can be particularly deceptive for out-of-towners. Those desert nights get chilly. So, check the forecast and, when in doubt, grab a jacket! Otherwise, you run the risk of wearing a tacky “Viva Las Vegas” hoodie over your cocktail dress. And if you’re trying to blend in with locals, that’s the last look you want to work.
Try to Ignore the Street Hustle
Iconic tourist spots are often swarming with street hustlers. In the thick of Hollywood Boulevard, you can’t walk three feet without walking into a celebrity impersonator. But in Las Vegas, the hustle is on another level, mirroring the city’s “more is more” flavor.
Las Vegas locals have learned not to accept anything handed to them in the hottest tourist spots. You’ll commonly push through the throngs only to find an artist pushing their homemade CD into your hands. These always come at a price.
The same goes for showgirls and other eccentric characters patrolling the Strip. If you pause for a photo with them, they expect financial compensation. Don’t want a legion of showgirls and MCs trailing you demanding cash? Then don’t stop for photos and don’t accept mix CDs.
Even Las Vegas Locals Love a Good Yard Drink
You’ve probably guessed that stumbling around with a full yard drink is a total tourist move. But Las Vegas locals know a bargain when they see one. These yard-long glasses are still one of the most affordable ways to drink in the city. Slide up to Fat Tuesday and don’t go too stingy on the tips. Whether you’re a tourist or a native, you’ll be unlocking the cheapest way to drink on the Strip. Still trying to blend in with the residents? Refrain from the ever popular question “Where did you get that drink?” It’s not a dumb question, but it will instantly peg you as a tourist. Not to mention you’ll find someone slinging yard drinks virtually every 17 feet.
There are still plenty of ways you can flag yourself as a Las Vegas tourist. Telegraphing your every movement for social media? Tourist. Expecting preferential treatment for blowing 50 dollars on a slot machine? Tourist. Asking about last call? Tourist. But there’s nothing wrong with being a tourist. In fact, Las Vegas wouldn’t be nearly as crazy and magical without its tourists. And most Las Vegas locals appreciate that. So, be respectful and be yourself, and may luck be on your side!
