Beyond the ritzy casinos, all-you-can-eat buffets and bustling Strip, an entirely different Las Vegas Vibe awaits. Home to outdoor adventures aplenty, incredible cuisine and exciting things to do, this is your guide to the fabulous Las Vegas only locals know.
Below are five activities to add some local flair to your Sin City getaway.
1. Paddle Lake, Las Vegas
Twenty miles east of the Strip, find an outdoor paradise in the planned community of Lake Las Vegas.
In the summer months, Rent a pedal boat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the 320-acre lake.
Or go for a thrilling ride on an electric surfboard and soar through the air using the power of water propulsion. Bounce around the Lake Las Vegas Water Sports Aqua park, the city’s first floating obstacle course, for all-ages fun.
Book a sunset yacht cruise for an unforgettable date night. Continue the romance with dinner at Mimi’ & Coco’ Bistro a lakeside restaurant with European flair.
2. Dine In Fremont East
Where do locals eat in Las Vegas? They typically skip the touristy Fremont Street experience and visit the hipster haven of Fremont East. Here, you’ll find local restaurants and bars for almost any dining style or preference.
Start your day at Publics for coffee and breakfast, a trendy, off-the-Strip Spot that hosts more Las Vegans than visitors.
When you’re ready for dinner and drinks, take your pick from American, Mexican and Thai food. Therapy serves unique cocktails and elevated takes on classic American fare; fellow diners recommend the lobster grilled cheese sandwich.
Or savor Vegas’ Southwest flavors at La Coming. Look for the nine-foot neon monkey sign and enjoy tasty tacos and margaritas. If you’re in the mood for Thai food, check out Le Thai for vegetarian-friendly cuisine and $5 draft beer.
3. Explore Downtown Container Park
While on historic Fremont Street, visit America’s first shopping and entertainment complex built entirely from shipping containers: Downtown Container Park. Enter at the metal, fire-breathing mantis, and watch live entertainment while sipping and snacking at locally run eateries.
This vibrant district features sweets shops, hot dog stands and free movie nights, making it one of the most family-friendly hot spots in town — on and off the Strip.
4. Visit the Avengers S. T. A. T. I. O. N.
Immerse yourself in the colorful world of Marvel Comics at this interactive exhibit tucked inside Treasure Island. See uniforms from blockbuster movies while diving deep into the history, science, engineering and stories of some of the world’s most beloved comic characters. Finish the experience at the world’s largest Marvel retail store and green-screen photo opportunities for an extra dose of fun.
5. Hike Mount Charleston
Drive 45 minutes outside Vegas to the camping and hiking paradise of Mount Charleston. These mountains are 20 to 30 degrees cooler than the Strip and home to more than 60 miles of maintained trails.
Its biggest hiking challenge is the 8.5-mile climb to the top of 11,916-foot Charleston Peak. If you’re looking for something shorter but just as scenic, try one a shorter trail to cascading Mary Jane Falls or through aspens and ponderosa pines to Cathedral Rock.
No matter which path you choose, be prepared for sun exposure and variable weather conditions while exploring.
Where To Stay
Whether you love the Strip or seek solitude, Hilton Grand Vacations offer something for everyone. Choose from five resorts on and off the Strip, and start planning your Las Vegas vacation today.
Read “Here’s How To Spend 3 Incredible Days in Las Vegas Without Setting Foot in a Casino” for one Owner’s itinerary to see the most of Sin City.