Destinations

Solo in Vegas: A Travel Guide for First-Timers and Free Spirits

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I’ll admit it — more than one person looked at me sideways when I said I was travelling to Las Vegas solo. Even a pair of friendly showgirls on the Strip told me I was “brave” before pulling me in for a free photo and a chat about my solo travels. But honestly? I felt more free than ever.

There’s nowhere in the world quite like Las Vegas. The neon buzz. The sheer excess. The heat of the May air as I strolled from one over-the-top casino to the next. I spent two days soaking it all in — from Bellagio’s dancing fountains to the rooftop thrill of the Stratosphere, ziplining over Fremont Street, and seeing the LOVE Cirque du Soleil show that made my heart burst with nostalgia.

After my solo whirlwind on the Strip, I was lucky enough to stay with local friends who showed me the other side of the region — the soul-stirring landscapes just beyond the city. Together, we crossed into Arizona, climbed into a raft on the Colorado River, and saw the Grand Canyon from the bottom. Cold water, goosebumps, jaw-dropping cliffs — the kind of awe that sticks with you for life.

This Las Vegas travel guide blends the best of both worlds: iconic attractions, must-see shows, where to eat and party, plus offbeat experiences and insider tips you won’t find in your average itinerary. Whether it’s your first time in Vegas or you’re back for round two (or ten), let’s dive in — high heels optional.

1. Getting to Las Vegas

If you’re flying in, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is your landing point, just minutes from the Strip. Major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, Southwest, and United run regular routes with competitive fares.

Already travelling through the States? Taking a Greyhound is another option. I rode in from San Diego and found it surprisingly scenic — a real taste of that dusty desert road trip magic before the city lights appear on the horizon.

Getting Around Las Vegas

  • Walk when you can, but remember: everything is further apart than it looks.
  • Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are fast and convenient.
  • The Deuce Bus, a double-decker public transport option, is great for budget-friendly Strip and Downtown travel.
  • Rent a car if you plan to explore further afield, like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam.

A Quick Safety Note
Vegas is mostly safe, but a little street smarts goes a long way. One Uber driver who dropped me at the Stratosphere actually waited until I walked inside and warned me not to walk around alone in that area. It was such a kind act and stuck with me.

2. Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Vegas accommodations are just as wild and wonderful as the city itself — whether you want luxury, budget basics, or something themed and ridiculous (in the best way).

Luxury Hotels
I stayed at Caesars Palace and scored a surprise upgrade to a king suite overlooking the pool, spa bath, marble everything, the works.

Other top-tier picks:

  • The Bellagio – Iconic and elegant.
  • The Venetian – Dreamy indoor canals and all-suite rooms.
  • Wynn Las Vegas – Chic, sleek, and great service.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • The LINQ Hotel – Fun vibes, central, affordable.
  • Excalibur – Quirky, medieval-themed, budget.
  • El Cortez (Downtown) – Retro, low-key, and great value.

Themed Hotels Worth Seeing (or Staying In)

  • Luxor – A pyramid with a sphinx.
  • New York-New York – Mini NYC skyline + rollercoaster.
  • Paris Las Vegas – Eiffel Tower and French flair.
  • The STRAT – Budget-friendly and thrilling views.

Solo Traveller Side Note:
I was a bit self-conscious checking into a fancy hotel alone, but once I got that upgrade, I felt empowered and completely at ease.

Tip: Be friendly at check-in — you never know what magic might happen.n.

Indoor gondola ride at The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, with romantic lighting, faux-Venetian architecture, and a blue canal beneath a painted sky ceiling.

3. Top Attractions in Las Vegas

The Strip

  • Bellagio Fountains – Free, magical, and music-synced.
  • Eiffel Tower Experience – Best views of the Strip.
  • The STRAT Observation Deck + Big Shot Ride – If you’re after next-level views (and maybe a bit of a heart attack), head to the top of the STRAT. It’s the tallest observation tower in the U.S., and the Big Shot ride shoots you straight up into the sky, with nothing but neon and desert air below you. I did it, and I’m not gonna lie… I screamed. Worth it.
  • Volcano Show – Explosive fun at The Mirage.
  • Bonus: Just walk! Each hotel is its own adventure.

Fremont Street Experience
Downtown’s gritty cousin to the Strip. I did the SlotZilla Zipline over the crowds and had a blast.

Las Vegas Shows
I saw LOVE by Cirque du Soleil and it was a highlight. Other greats:

  • “O” by Cirque du Soleil
  • Magic shows (David Copperfield, Shin Lim)
  • Comedy & big-name residencies

World-Class Casinos

  • Caesars Palace – Marble columns and a dreamy pool.
  • The Venetian – Indoor gondolas and sky-painted ceilings.
  • Wynn & Encore – Sleek and luxurious.

Day Trips & Excursions

  • Red Rock Canyon – Short drive, otherworldly vibes. I did it and loved it.
  • Hoover Dam – Architecture meets history.

4. A Grand Canyon Experience Like No Other

Most people see the Grand Canyon from above — I got to see it from the bottom.

After Vegas, my local friends took me across the border to Arizona, where we joined a rafting trip on the Colorado River. The water was freezing, but after four hours exploring and soaking in the beauty, I dove in headfirst.

Looking up at the canyon walls from below? It’s a memory that lives in my bones.

How You Can Do It:

  • South Rim Viewpoints – Iconic and accessible.
  • West Rim + Skywalk – A glass bridge thrill.
  • Rafting Trips – Day or multi-day adventures from calm floats to whitewater.

5. Dining & Nightlife

Restaurants
Didn’t do fine dining, but here are some famous picks:

  • Hell’s Kitchen (Gordon Ramsay)
  • é by José Andrés – Hidden tasting experience
  • Momofuku – Modern and buzzy

Plus, low-key gems like Secret Pizza and Tacos El Gordo.

Buffets
I hit The Flamingo Buffet — casual, classic, and endless. Also check out:

  • Bacchanal Buffet (Caesars Palace)
  • Wicked Spoon (The Cosmopolitan)
  • The Buffet at Wynn

Bars & Lounges

  • The Chandelier (Cosmopolitan) – Walked through, and it was stunning.
  • SkyBar (Waldorf Astoria) – Strip views and chic energy.
  • Downtown Cocktail Room – Speakeasy feels.

Clubs
Didn’t club this time, but big names include:

  • Omnia
  • XS
  • Hakkasan

Solo Tip: Club promoters often offer free entry or drinks to solo or small groups. Trust your instincts, but don’t be afraid to say yes to a little sparkle.

6. Insider Tips for Visiting Las Vegas

When to Go

  • Spring & Autumn – Best weather.
  • Winter – Desert cold! I visited in December once and was freezing. Pack layers.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Join hotel rewards programs.
  • Walk where you can.
  • Grab drinks from convenience stores (street drinking is legal).
  • Book shows in advance for deals.

Safety Tips

  • Trust your gut.
  • Don’t walk alone in quiet areas at night.
  • Stay in public places if meeting new people.

What to Pack

  • Comfy shoes
  • Light jacket
  • Crossbody or bumbag
  • Snacks + water

7. Final Thoughts: Vegas, Your Way

Las Vegas is loud, chaotic, glittering — and totally unlike anywhere else on earth. I went solo, unsure what to expect, and found myself walking through dazzling lobbies, chatting with strangers, eating solo at buffets and falling absolutely in love with this city! It reminded me that solo travel can be powerful, freeing, and really fun.

So whether you’re booking a last-minute weekend, planning a solo adventure, or just daydreaming for now — let Vegas be whatever you need it to be.

💌 Let’s Keep Roaming Together

Until next time — keep roaming free 🤍
Francesca x