Las Vegas Strip

At the north end of the Strip, you’ll find two resort/casinos that perfectly represent the old and new character of Las Vegas. SLS Las Vegas is a contemporary resort opened in 2014 in place of the famed Sahara, replacing the old casino’s cheesy Moroccan theme with a trendy, modern design to appeal to a younger crowd. Vintage Vegas soon makes its appearance with a giant clown sign inviting visitors to the 1968 classic, Circus Circus.

Entering the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll find grand resort casinos such as Encore Las Vegas and Wynn Las Vegas, which illustrate the trend toward luxury experiences and away from the themed casinos of old Vegas. Treasure Island Hotel & Casino opened in the ’90s with a distinct pirate theme but later toned it down to a subtle South Seas vibe.

Just past the dazzling lights of the Bally’s digital billboard, you’ll find a half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower, part of the Paris Las Vegas resort and casino. The observation deck at the top offers a fabulous view of the lights of the Strip, as well as the Bellagio fountains across the street.

A family-friendly trend in the ’90s gave Las Vegas the Excalibur Hotel & Casino, which still exists in all its medieval glory, complete with a Fun Dungeon and a Medieval Times-style dinner show. Half a mile past West Russell Road, you can snap a selfie at the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.