What’s The Difference Between Downtown Las Vegas & The Strip?

Las Vegas homebuyers have a lot to look forward to when it comes to urban entertainment and activities. Some may be surprised to learn that there is a difference between the famous Las Vegas Strip and the more historic Downtown. Downtown Las Vegas is situated in the center of the Las Vegas valley, just north of the Strip, and is the original mecca of gambling and hotels. Until Steve Wynn famously opened the first of the mega-sized luxurious casino-hotels called The Mirage in 1989, Downtown was the main attraction. However, with the success of the Mirage, other luxury hotels followed, and attention shifted to the Strip. Not until the mid-90’s did Downtown begin to flourish again. In modern day, both Downtown Las Vegas and the Strip have a lot to offer tourists and residents alike, depending on your lifestyle and interests, and perhaps even your mood. 

Downtown Las Vegas

For a taste of the more historic Las Vegas, Downtown is a must. The casinos, restaurants, shops and entertainment are vibrant and inviting, but the vibe is palpably relaxed. You can enjoy the classic Vegas charm without the excessive flashiness of the Strip. Art lovers will appreciate the neighborhood art, featured prominently, and pedestrians will get their steps in while taking in the sights. You are also likely to encounter more locals in Downtown, as the casino prices are lower and it is quieter than the noisy tourist bustle of the neighboring Strip. 

• Fremont Street Experience 

Fremont Street is a gem in the heart of Las Vegas and one of the world’s greatest gambling and entertainment destinations. After being overlooked for some years, Downtown Las Vegas undertook a colossal renovation of Fremont Street, to draw people back to the actual birthplace of Sin City. It is here where you will find the first of Las Vegas’ casinos, The Golden Nugget, as well as the historic Binion’s Horseshoe and the Pioneer Club. 

• Fremont Street Attractions

The Fremont East Entertainment District, or FEED, was built in 2002 as a 6-block pedestrian entertainment hub. It’s easy to wander from piano bar to casino saloon, tasting craft beers, stopping at various eateries, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The iconic neon signs are ubiquitous. 

Make sure to check out the Neon Museum and the Neon Boneyard, which are good for all age levels. A visit to The Mob Museum is yet another way to relish the history of this famous city. Locals and tourists alike will enjoy the free nightly light shows, street buskers, and the famous Arts District, which spans 18 blocks and is home to numerous galleries and boutiques. 

The Las Vegas Strip

The glamorous Las Vegas Strip is technically a 4-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard that runs from Sahara Avenue at the north end to Russell Road at the south end. It is world famous as a one-of-a-kind luxury resort, entertainment and gambling mecca, attracting thrill-seekers from all over. There are also plenty of activities for non-gamblers and people of all ages. 

• The Main Strip

The Main Strip is considered the best part of the Las Vegas Strip and is where you can wander by foot and see the most recognizable casinos and resorts, including the breathtaking Bellagio Fountains, New York-New York, and the iconic Luxor. While Las Vegas locals are more commonly drawn to Downtown, they are likely to party on the Strip when taking in one of its many shows, exploring the sights, or just feeling particularly decadent. 

• The Strip Attractions

There is always something new to delight the senses of visitors to The Las Vegas Strip. For a day without gambling, The LINQ Promenade offers an elaborate entertainment complex, complete with restaurants, shops and the famous High Roller observation wheel, a 550-foot ferris wheel which offers panoramic views of the city. 

If you’re looking for something more exotic, you can get lost in the luxurious Venetian Hotel which is constructed as a replica of Venice, Italy, with its Grand Canal Shoppes, the Rialto Bridge and gondola rides on the canal. 

You don’t have to stay at the luxurious Bellagio to enjoy its numerous amenities. Besides its spectacular fountain display, the Bellagio is home to a stunning Conservatory and Botanical Garden, which has changing displays throughout the seasons, all equally stunning. The Bellagio also houses the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art and the world’s largest chocolate fountain.