Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote articles about staying in Las Vegas with kids (I will leave the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Las Vegas for first-time visitors.
I will give you the list of what I believe are the best and safe areas to stay in Las Vegas for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and neighborhoods to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Las Vegas and recommend some of the best hotels for all budgets.
Before getting into the main topic, let’s look at some highlights about Las Vegas:
Las Vegas is often referred to as the Entertainment Capital of the World and is located in the state of Nevada. It is renowned for its lively entertainment, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
You’ll find numerous world-class casinos and resorts, including famous establishments like the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the Venetian. These casinos offer a wide range of games, including slot machines, poker, blackjack, and more.
The Las Vegas Strip is a 4.2-mile-long section of Las Vegas Boulevard South that is lined with some of the city’s most iconic resorts, casinos, and entertainment venues. It’s a major tourist attraction featuring extravagant architecture, dazzling lights, and numerous attractions.
Las Vegas is renowned for its vibrant nightlife with numerous nightclubs, bars, and shows. The city also has a wide range of fine dining options, often led by celebrity chefs. You can find cuisine from around the world, making it a culinary hotspot.
There are also a plethora of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to outlet malls. You can find everything from designer clothing to unique souvenirs.
While Las Vegas is primarily known for its entertainment and gaming, it also offers a variety of cultural attractions. You can visit the Smith Center for the Performing Arts and museums like the Neon Museum, which showcases the history of Las Vegas through its iconic signs.
For those who want a break from the bustling city, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
Las Vegas is a popular destination for conventions and trade shows. The Las Vegas Convention Center is one of the largest in the world, hosting a wide range of events throughout the year.
The city is famous for its wedding industry. Many couples come to the city for quick and unique wedding ceremonies, often at one of the famous wedding chapels along the Strip.
Gambling is a significant part of Las Vegas’s culture. It is legal and regulated in the city, and there are numerous opportunities to try your luck at the slot machines, card tables, and sportsbooks.
Is Las Vegas Safe to Visit?
Yes, Las Vegas is generally considered safe to visit. There is a significant police presence on the famous Las Vegas Strip. But, like any major tourist destination, it does experience some crime, primarily related to petty theft and occasional instances of more serious incidents.
You can enhance your safety by staying in reputable hotels, being vigilant in crowded areas, taking extra caution with your belongings, watching your drink, and avoiding isolated areas at night.
Where to stay in Las Vegas for the first time?
The best and safe areas to stay in Las Vegas for first-time tourists are The Central Strip, South Strip, North Strip, Summerlin, and Henderson/ Green Valley. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense safety precautions wherever you stay.
The Central Strip and the South Strip are the most popular areas in Las Vegas for those who want to be in the midst of all the action. This area includes some of the most iconic resorts like The Bellagio, The Venetian, and Caesar’s Palace. Staying here offers easy access to many attractions, shows, and nightlife.
If you’re looking for a different Las Vegas experience, consider staying in the downtown area, near Fremont Street. It’s often more budget-friendly than the Strip, and it’s a great choice for those who want a taste of old Vegas.
If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the Strip and don’t mind traveling to the Las Vegas Strip, you can consider booking your accommodations in Summerlin, or Henderson. They are located outside the Las Vegas Strip and offer quieter experiences.
During my trip to Las Vegas, I stayed on the Las Vegas Strip at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip. It is a good value for money family-friendly hotel, with a great location close to the strip but quiet away from the chaos.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Las Vegas for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Las Vegas, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Las Vegas have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Safe areas to stay in Las Vegas for first-timers and tourists:
1. The Las Vegas Central Strip
The Central Strip area in Las Vegas is a popular choice for first-timers and tourists who want to be in the heart of the action and explore all the iconic attractions Las Vegas has to offer.
The accommodations on the Central Strip can be more expensive compared to other areas of Las Vegas, but the convenience and luxury make it a fantastic choice for those looking to experience the glitz and glamor of the city.
This area is home to some of the most famous and luxurious resorts and casinos, and it offers easy access to a wide range of entertainment, dining, and shopping options.
The central Strip is the area between Sands Ave and Harmon Ave where you can find luxury accommodations such as The Bellagio, The Venetian & The Palazzo, Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan, Paris Las Vegas, Aria Resort & Casino, and Mirage Hotel & Casino.
The Central Strip is home to luxury shopping options, including The Shops at Crystals and The Forum Shops at Caesars.
You’ll find a wide range of shows and concerts at venues like The Colosseum at Caesars Palace and the Park Theater at Park MGM.
The Central Strip is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous nightclubs, bars, and lounges.
Best places to stay in The Las Vegas Central Strip for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Bellagio, popular 5-star hotel located behind the iconic Fountains of Bellagio, featuring 5 swimming pools and 18 restaurants. You can get the room with fountain views.
Luxury ($$$): The Palazzo at The Venetian, 5-star eco-friendly accommodation centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip, featuring a spa and health club, pool deck overlooking the Strip, and a casino.
Luxury ($$$): The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, very popular 5-star resort in the Central Strip, featuring spacious suites, 40 restaurants, a casino, and on-site Grand Canal Shoppes with more than 150 shops. It is also home to the Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Wax Museum.
Mid-range ($$): The Platinum Hotel, great 4-star hotel located on East Flamingo Road, One block from the Las Vegas Strip. It has Free parking, Indoor swimming pool, and 24-hour front desk.
Mid-range ($$): Hilton Grand Vacations Club Elara Center Strip Las Vegas, 4-star accommodation located on East Harmon Avenue and is linked to the Miracle Mile Shops and the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.
Mid-range ($$): Jet Luxury at The Signature Condo Hotel, popular 4-star hotel, located only a few minutes walk from the Las Vegas Strip, featuring self-catering spacious suites.
Budget ($): Jockey Club Suites, great 3-star family-friendly hotel, located on the Las Vegas Strip between the City Center and the Bellagio, 10 mins walk from Bally’s & Paris Monorail Station. There are no resort fees, offering suites with an equipped kitchen.
Budget ($): Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort, an IHG Hotel, 3-star hotel located on Koval Lane, in a quiet location, views of Sphere, just a block from the Las Vegas Strip. It has a $29 per night resort fee, 5 swimming pools, and free parking.
Budget ($): Tuscany Suites & Casino, great 3-star all-suite hotel short Uber ride/ 15 mins walk from the Las Vegas Strip. Quiet location, spacious rooms.
MORE HOTEL DEALS ON LAS VEGAS STRIP2. The Las Vegas South Strip
The Las Vegas South Strip is the area between Harmon Ave and Mandalay Bay where you can find The famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign located at the southern end of the Strip and is a popular spot for photos.
The southern section is home to the Mandalay Bay, Delano Las Vegas, Luxor, Excalibur, Tropicana, and Mandalay Bay Beach, which is a great place to relax and unwind.
Best places to stay in The Las Vegas South Strip for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas, 5-star resort located on the Las Vegas Strip, a short walk from ARIA Resort & Casino and Bellagio, where you can find many dining, casino and shopping venues.
Luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, 5-star hotel set adjacent to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, featuring rooms in the Mandalay Bay Tower with views of the mountain and the Las Vegas Strip.
Luxury ($$$): Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, 5-star accommodation located on Las Vegas Boulevard South, a short walk from The Shops at City Centre, 15 mins walk from The Monorail.
Luxury ($$$): Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay, 5-star hotel, part of the Mandalay Bay Hotel, situated on the Las Vegas Strip. It has a shark aquarium in Mandalay Bay and Outdoor swimming pool.
Mid-range ($$): Park MGM Las Vegas, 4-star hotel situated right next to the T-Mobile Arena, on the Las Vegas Strip. It has a casino, a theater, and Dolby Live at Park MGM.
Mid-range ($$): Mandalay Bay, 4-star hotel with a private beach, located right on Las Vegas Strip, featuring kid-friendly swimming pools.
Budget ($): Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Las Vegas – E Tropicana, an IHG Hotel, 3-star hotel located MGM Grand, within a 15 mins walk from MGM Grand Monorail Station, within walking distance from the Strip.
Budget ($): Hampton Inn Tropicana, great 3-star non-gaming hotel located on South Dean Martin Drive, short Uber ride from The Strip, The Excalibur Casino, Allegiant Stadium, and T Mobile Arena.
MORE HOTEL DEALS ON LAS VEGAS STRIP3. The Las Vegas North Strip
The North Strip area in Las Vegas is less densely populated with resorts and casinos compared to the Central and South Strip, but it still has some notable attractions and accommodations. It’s a quieter and less crowded part of the Strip, making it suitable for visitors who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.
The northern Strip is where you can find Circus Circus, Resorts World Las Vegas, Stratosphere Tower, Sahara Las Vegas, Las Vegas Festival Grounds for various events and music festivals.
Known as the “World’s Largest Gift Shop,” Bonanza Gift Shop is a massive store selling a wide range of souvenirs and Vegas-themed merchandise.
If you’re looking to get married in Las Vegas, Little White Wedding Chapel, a historic chapel, is a famous choice for quick and quirky ceremonies.
Best places to stay in The Las Vegas North Strip for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Las Vegas Hilton At Resorts World , great popular 5-star hotel located right on the heart of Las Vegas Strip, very close to the Convention Centre, featuring quiet comfortable rooms, a 24-hour front desk, 7 swimming pools, retail shops, and a barbershop.
Luxury ($$$): Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, great 5-star hotel, located on Fashion Show Drive, right next to the Fashion Show Mall, 5 mins walk to Las Vegas Boulevard. It features accommodations with kitchenette facilities. The hotel offers free shuttle services from/to shopping centers and casinos.
Luxury ($$$): Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, 5-star hotel located on Las Vegas Boulevard, featuring 2 swimming pools, 2 on-site nightclubs, and Superb breakfast according to guests’ reviews.
Mid-range ($$): Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip, very popular 4-star good value for money hotel located on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, a short walk from casinos and The City of Rock concert venue.
Mid-range ($$): Hilton Grand Vacations Club Paradise Las Vegas, 4-star family-friendly accommodation located on Karen Avenue, short walk from The Las Vegas Monorail, and only a few mins Uber ride from Las Vegas Strip and the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Budget ($): SpringHill Suites by Marriott Las Vegas Convention Center, 3-star hotel, located on Paradise Road, just a block from restaurants and entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip.
Budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Las Vegas Convention Center, 3-star hotel safe location, no resort fees, featuring self-catering studios, conveniently situated close to the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Other popular hotels on the Northern Las Vegas Strip include The STRAT, Circus Circus, and the SAHARA Las Vegas. Circus Circus has an indoor theme park with a large roller coaster (Adventuredome), the shops at Promenade, and the on-site Carnival Midway.
MORE HOTEL DEALS ON LAS VEGAS STRIP4. Fremont Street/ Downtown
Downtown Las Vegas, particularly the Fremont Street area, offers a different and often more affordable experience compared to staying on the Las Vegas Strip. If you’re looking for a more historic and vibrant part of the city, Fremont Street is a great area to book your accommodation.
The highlight of the area, Fremont Street is a pedestrian-only street covered by a massive LED canopy. It’s famous for its light shows, live music, street performers, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Golden Nugget historic hotel and casino is one of the anchor properties in the Fremont Street area and features a famous swimming pool with a water slide that passes through a shark tank.
The D Las Vegas is a modern hotel and casino with a party atmosphere, The D is a popular choice for those looking for lively nightlife.
Four Queens Hotel and Casino, a classic downtown option, offers a more traditional Las Vegas experience.
Downtown Container Park is a unique shopping and entertainment complex made up of shipping containers, featuring boutiques, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.
Located in a historic courthouse, Mob Museum explores the history of organized crime in Las Vegas and the law enforcement efforts to combat it.
Neon Boneyard outdoor museum showcases a collection of vintage Las Vegas neon signs, providing a fascinating look at the city’s history.
Best places to stay in Las Vegas Downtown for first-timers:
- Mid-range ($$): Circa Resort & Casino – Adults Only
- Budget ($): Sin City Hostel
5. Summerlin
Summerlin is a safe and upscale residential area located on the western outskirts of Las Vegas, away from the bustling Las Vegas Strip. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and residential experience in Las Vegas, Summerlin could be an ideal choice.
Keep in mind that it’s also a bit farther from the central Strip area, so if you plan to spend a lot of time in the heart of the city, you may need to account for transportation to reach the tourist hotspots.
The area is a short drive from the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a stunning natural wonder, offering hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives through a picturesque desert landscape.
You can explore Downtown Summerlin, a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district with numerous shops, restaurants, a movie theater, and events throughout the year.
Summerlin is home to several world-class golf courses, making it an excellent destination for golf enthusiasts.
You can shop at the Tivoli Village, a boutique shopping and dining destination with a European-inspired design and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Best places to stay in Las Vegas in Summerlin:
- Mid-range ($$): JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa
- Budget ($): Hampton Inn Las Vegas/Summerlin
- Budget ($): Best Western Plus Las Vegas West
6. Henderson/ Green Valley
Henderson and Green Valley are generally safe and family-friendly suburbs located outside the Las Vegas Strip. These areas are suitable for travelers who prefer a quieter environment and want to explore Las Vegas beyond the bustling tourist hub.
However, keep in mind that you’ll need to use transportation to access the central and southern parts of the Las Vegas Strip and other major attractions, as these suburban areas are a bit removed from the tourist centers.
Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa is a centerpiece of the Green Valley area, offering a range of amenities, including a spa, restaurants, and a casino.
The District at Green Valley Ranch is a popular outdoor shopping and dining district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
You can visit Lake Las Vegas, a picturesque artificial lake surrounded by hotels, golf courses, and recreational activities, offering a tranquil getaway from the city.
The area is also home to Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, a 140-acre wildlife sanctuary where you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy the natural surroundings.
You can Take a tour of the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden and explore the beautiful cactus garden.
Best places to stay in Las Vegas in Henderson:
- Budget ($): Best Western Plus Henderson Hotel
- Budget ($): Skyline Hotel and Casino
- Budget ($): Hampton Inn & Suites Las Vegas-Henderson
In conclusion, The Central Strip, South Strip, North Strip, Fremont Street/Downtown, Summerlin, and Henderson are the best places to stay in Las Vegas for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas with a variety of accommodations and amenities for all budgets.
You can continue reading about Las Vegas and other nearby cities in these articles:
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Las Vegas. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.