Las Vegas is a city known for its glitz and glamour, but there is so much more to explore beyond The Strip. From the unique attractions of Downtown Las Vegas to the vibrant atmosphere of Fremont Street, there is something for everyone in this area of the city. Whether you are looking for a night out on the town, some family-friendly fun, or just a change of scenery, here is your guide to venturing off The Strip and exploring Downtown Las Vegas.
1. History of Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas is the original home of Las Vegas. The area was founded by rancher William A. Clark in 1905, who was looking to capitalize on the potential of the area’s abundant natural resources. The area was initially known as the Las Vegas townsite, and it was here that the first hotel and casino was built in 1931.
Fremont Street is the hub of Downtown Las Vegas. The street is named after John Charles Fremont, a 19th-century explorer and surveyor who mapped much of the western United States. The street was initially known as Main Street until it was officially renamed in 1955.
2. What To See and Do in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are packed full of attractions, from museums and galleries to casinos and live entertainment. Here are some of the top things to see and do when exploring the area:
a. Explore the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a must-see when visiting Downtown Las Vegas. The museum is home to a vibrant collection of vintage neon signs from the city’s past. Stroll through the open-air exhibition and marvel at the iconic signs that lit up the city’s skyline in years gone by.
b. Take a Ride on the SlotZilla Zip Line
Experience the sights and sounds of Fremont Street from a different perspective with a ride on SlotZilla, the world’s largest slot machine-themed zip line. The zip line takes riders from the Fremont Street Experience down to the street below, giving them an exhilarating rush and stunning views of the city.
c. Visit Downtown Container Park
Downtown Container Park is a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment destination in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas. The park features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as live music and entertainment, all housed in a unique collection of shipping containers.
3. Where to Stay in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas has plenty of options when it comes to accommodation. Here are a few of the top hotels in the area:
a. The D Las Vegas
The D Las Vegas is a downtown landmark, located right in the heart of the Fremont Street Experience. The hotel offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious suites to more budget-friendly rooms. The hotel also features a range of dining and entertainment options, as well as a lively casino.
b. El Cortez Hotel & Casino
The El Cortez Hotel & Casino is the longest continuously-running hotel and casino in Las Vegas, having opened its doors in 1941. The hotel offers a range of rooms, from standard suites to vintage-style cabanas. The hotel also features a casino, several restaurants, and a lively bar.
c. Golden Nugget Las Vegas
The Golden Nugget Las Vegas is a luxury hotel and casino located in Downtown Las Vegas. The hotel features a range of accommodation, from standard rooms to luxurious suites, as well as several on-site restaurants and bars. The hotel also features a lively casino and an outdoor pool.
4. Where to Eat in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street offer a wide range of dining options, from casual to fine dining. Here are a few of the top places to eat in the area:
a. Eat at Heart Attack Grill
Heart Attack Grill is a unique diner located on Fremont Street. The restaurant serves up an array of indulgent burgers and sides, as well as an array of craft beers and cocktails. The restaurant also features an over-the-top theme, with waitstaff dressed as doctors and nurses, and a menu that is printed on a hospital chart.
b. Enjoy Drinks at the Atomic Liquors
The Atomic Liquors is a historic bar and restaurant located on Fremont Street. The bar has been around for over 70 years and is the oldest operating bar in Las Vegas. The bar features a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, as well as live music and weekly events.
c. Dine at La Comida
La Comida is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in Downtown Las Vegas. The restaurant serves up a range of traditional Mexican dishes, as well as a selection of craft cocktails and tequilas. The restaurant also features an outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco.
5. Shopping in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street offer a wide range of shopping options, from souvenir shops to upscale boutiques. Here are a few of the top places to shop in the area:
a. Shop at the Downtown Container Park
The Downtown Container Park is a unique shopping destination located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas. The park is home to a variety of shops, selling everything from souvenirs to unique artwork and clothing. The park also features a range of restaurants and bars, as well as live entertainment.
b. Stroll Through the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District
The Downtown Las Vegas Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood that is home to a range of independent shops and galleries. The district is a great place to find unique souvenirs, as well as artwork and clothing from local artists.
c. Explore the Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience is a pedestrian mall located on Fremont Street. The mall is home to a variety of shops, from souvenir stores to upscale boutiques. The mall also features a range of restaurants and bars, as well as live entertainment.
6. Nightlife in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street offer a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Here are a few of the top places to go for a night out in the area:
a. Enjoy Drinks at The Golden Tiki
The Golden Tiki is a tropical-themed bar and restaurant located on Fremont Street. The bar serves up a range of craft cocktails, as well as a selection of beers and wines. The bar also features a range of entertainment, from live music to movie nights.
b. Dance the Night Away at Downtown Cocktail Room
The Downtown Cocktail Room is a lively bar and nightclub located in Downtown Las Vegas. The bar serves up a range of craft cocktails and beers, as well as a selection of wines and spirits. The bar also features live music and DJs, as well as dance nights and special events.
c. Catch a Show at Insert Coins
Insert Coins is a bar, lounge, and arcade located in Downtown Las Vegas. The bar serves up a range of craft cocktails, as well as a selection of beers and wines. The bar also features a range of classic arcade games, as well as live DJs and live music.
7. Family Activities in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street offer plenty of activities for the whole family. Here are a few of the top family-friendly attractions in the area:
a. Visit the Mob Museum
The Mob Museum is a must-see for families visiting Downtown Las Vegas. The museum is home to a range of interactive exhibits, exploring the history of organized crime in the United States. The museum also features a range of hands-on activities and educational programs.
b. Take a Ride on the Las Vegas Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is a great way to explore Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street. The monorail runs along the Strip, with stops at several key attractions, including the Fremont Street Experience and the Mob Museum.
c. Go Ziplining at The LINQ Promenade
The LINQ Promenade is a great place for families to explore. The promenade features a range of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a zipline that takes riders from one end of the promenade to the other.
8. Tips for Visiting Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Visiting Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street can be a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:
a. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are both very walkable areas, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you have the right footwear.
b. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street can be a bit chaotic and crowded, so make sure to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert to your surroundings.
c. Have Cash on Hand
Many of the shops, restaurants, and attractions in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street only accept cash, so make sure to have some on hand.
9. Transportation in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are both very walkable areas, but there are also a few other options for getting around the area:
a. Take the Las Vegas Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is a great way to explore Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street. The monorail runs along the Strip and has stops at several key attractions, including the Fremont Street Experience and the Mob Museum.
b. Use a Ride-Sharing Service
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are a great way to get around Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street. The services are usually affordable and the drivers are usually knowledgeable about the area.
c. Take the Bus
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) operates a number of bus routes that serve Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street. The buses are usually affordable and run frequently, making them a great way to get around the area.
10. Safety in Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street are generally safe areas, but there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the area:
a. Stay in Well-Lit Areas
When exploring Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street, make sure to stay in well-lit areas, as these areas tend to be more populated and less susceptible to crime.
b. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It is always important to be aware of your surroundings when visiting any city. Stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
c. Know Where to Go for Help
If you ever find yourself in a difficult situation, make sure to know where to get help. There are a number of police stations and emergency services in the area, so make sure to know where to go for help if you ever need it.
Conclusion
Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street offer something for everyone, from unique attractions to vibrant nightlife. Whether you are looking for a night out on the town, some family-friendly fun, or just a change of scenery, this area of Las Vegas is sure to have something for you. With this guide, you will be well-prepared to explore all that Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street have to offer.
