Downtown Las Vegas

The basics

Downtown’s famed Fremont Street is still home to historic casinos such as the Golden Nugget and El Cortez, as well as the Fremont Street Experience, a multisensory light and sound show using more than two million lights and the world’s largest audio-video system. Downtown’s Arts District is home to several art galleries, studios, and stores, and there are also museums scattered around the neighborhood, including the Natural History Museum, Mob Museum, and Neon Museum.

Downtown Las Vegas is best explored on foot, the better to soak up the sights and sounds of the historic district. Guided walking tours introduce visitors to the history and culture of the area, as well as its quirky side. Food tours guided by locals include tasting stops at a handful of notable restaurants in addition to neighborhood exploration. Alternatively, pick up a bicycle from the bike share in front of Container Park and explore independently.

Things to know before you go

• Fans of mid-century modern-style architecture flock to downtown Las Vegas to soak up the “classic Vegas” era feeling.

• Fremont Street’s light shows take place on the hour every hour from early evening through early morning.

• Casinos in downtown Las Vegas are open 24/7.

How to get there

Downtown Las Vegas sits just north of the Strip, bordered by I-15 to the west, Washington Avenue to the north, Maryland Parkway to the east, and Sahara Avenue to the south. Cars can reach it via Interstate 15 and Route 95. The Deuce bus service runs from Mandalay Bay on the Strip to Fremont Street, stopping at resorts along the way.

When to get there

Fremont Street comes alive with light shows and live entertainment every night of the week, but especially so on Friday and Saturday. During the day, you can explore galleries, museums, and stores, but nighttime is when the neon lights come alive and crowds gather.

The Neon Museum

Las Vegas is well-known for its neon signage, but in the 1990s, LED and LCD screens began replacing neon. In response, local preservationists saved neon signs in what was called the Neon Boneyard. The Neon Museum honors these symbols of the city’s heyday, showcasing more than 150 restored signs. Just north of downtown, the museum’s visitor’s center is in the renovated La Concha Motel lobby, a famed seashell-shaped, mid-century modern building.

Ways to explore

Downtown’s famed Fremont Street is still home to historic casinos, such as the Golden Nugget and El Cortez, as well as the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall complex with casinos, shops, and dining. Downtown’s Arts District is home to several art galleries, studios, and stores, and there are also museums scattered around the neighborhood, including the Natural History Museum, Mob Museum, and the Neon Museum.

Downtown Las Vegas is best explored on foot. Guided walking tours explore the history of the area, while food tours showcase great spots to eat.

Accessibility

Most local businesses are wheelchair accessible, as are its museums, but it’s best to check ahead if you require specific accommodations.

Age limits

Some individual businesses don’t allow children or limit access at certain times of day.

What to pack

Drinking water, sunscreen, cash for poker chips

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sun hat

Not allowed

Businesses have their own restrictions, so check ahead for guidance.

Amenities

Public restrooms (in casinos), restaurants, shops

Address

Downtown Las Vegas is north of the Las Vegas Strip, and is easy to get to by car, public transportation, or hop-on hop-off bus.

Driving

If you’re coming from the Las Vegas Strip, you can take I-15 north to exit 43, which will get you close to the Fremont Street Experience. Street parking and public parking garages are abundant.

Public transportation

The double-decker Deuce bus connects downtown Las Vegas with several spots along the Las Vegas Strip before continuing to the Harry Reid Airport Rent-A-Car Center. It operates 24 hours a day.

Best times to visit

During the day, you can explore galleries, museums, and stores, but nighttime is when the neon lights come alive and crowds gather, especially on weekends.

Best days to visit

Weekends are livelier, especially in the evening, while weekdays are ideal for visiting museums.

Best months to visit

Come in the winter for cool temperatures, but expect crowds.

Special events

Downtown’s Fremont Street Experience offers all sorts of special programming, including New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, Independence Day, and Halloween celebrations.