Tips for Moving to Las Vegas

Tips for Moving to Las Vegas

Long removed from the era of organized crime, the city of Las Vegas, Nevada now boast a population of nearly 2 million and international fame for its gambling, resort and entertainment industries. With a lower cost of living than the major West Coast cities, a steadily improving economy, and the lack of a state income tax, there’s never been a better time to move to Vegas. 

Outside of the standard relocation advice (find a realtor, know the major area employers, pick up a copy of the local magazines like Vegas Seven and Las Vegas Weekly), here’s some additional advice on what to know so when you get to Vegas, you start off on the right foot.

Daily Life in Vegas 

The most pressing question when moving to Vegas: Where to live?

It’s a good idea to take a quick visit, take advantage of good hotel deal and visit a few of the neighborhoods, but if you’re early on in the process and looking for a quieter, more suburban Vegas life, take a look at North Las Vegas, Summerlin, Henderson or Green Valley. If you’re moving to Vegas to experience the city life, you’ll want to check out places like the Arts District or Downtown. 

Living in Las Vegas, you’ll want your own car. The transit system caters primarily to tourists and isn’t well suited for commuting in the same fashion other city metro systems are. While traffic jams aren’t as dramatic, it’s not a bad idea to invest in window tints to reduce the amount of heat beating on you during red lights.

Sunscreen wouldn’t be a bad investment either, as the city’s subtropical desert climate averages a maximum temperature of 100 degrees in the summer months and over 200 clear, sunny days a year. 

Nightlife

Obviously, Vegas is famous (and infamous) for its nightlife. From Caesar’s Palace to Mandalay Bay, Vegas has a nightlife incomparable to any other city. 

If you’re looking for a spot with a view, the Foundation Room is for you. Located on the rooftop of Mandalay Bay, the Room greets visitors with a sophisticated ambiance paired with guest performers and an unparalleled view of the Vegas valley.

Absolutely need to dance? 1OAK, inside the Mirage Hotel & Casino, is spot for you. With a constant stream of music artists and A-list celebrities, a full-service bar and little standing room, it’s one of the more intimate spots on the Vegas Strip. 

For an experience you’ll never forget, stand in line as long as possible to make it into Omnia. Inside, you’ll be overwhelmed by the 75,000 square-foot venue’s 8-ring LED moving chandelier. Fortunately, OMNIA is entirely climate controlled, so you won’t be too sweaty from dancing to chat outside on their patio.

Daylife 

Make no mistake; while Las Vegas is known for its nightlife, there’s plenty to do during the day, both near and far from the Strip. 

Within the city limits, you’ll find over a dozen parks and recreational areas, from Maslow Park to Aliante Nature Discovery Park. If you have kids, sign up for an annual pass to the Children’s Discovery Museum so they can experience the numerous educational and interactive exhibits, or the purely recreational Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix. 

Fewer than 20 minutes to the west are the foothills of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Head just 30 minutes east and you can reach the beaches of Lake Mead or the Hoover Dam. In need of a weekend getaway? Pack up some camping gear and make the 4-hour drive over to the Grand Canyon.

Vegas Eats 

With no shortage of quality restaurants, choosing somewhere to dine will be a difficult choice. Whether you’re searching for a bar with the perfect selection of cocktails, a reliable vegan and vegetarian spot, or a menu with more fried foods than you knew existed, you’re in luck. 

If you’re looking for a diner-style with a relaxing lounge and an all-around excellent menu, head to Peppermill, located on the northern side of the Strip. 

If you’re just looking for a good weekend brunch spot, Bouchon Bistro’s French breakfasts, beignets, and waffles are sure to keep you coming back for more.

Off Strip favorites include Curry Zen and Veggie Delight, both near Chinatown and both with moderately priced dishes that are sure to satisfy.

Vegas also has an assortment of 24-hour, late-night spots for whenever hunger strikes or the party ends. Among the city’s favorites are Freedom Beat (an American eccentricity which serves everything from chicken-fried bacon to fried Twinkies), El Dorado Cantina (for your 24-hour, chips and salsa needs), and Linq Promenade (a bistro-bar with specializes in comfort food). 

Vegas Shopping

Outside of metropolises like New York, Tokyo and Hong Kong, you’ll be hard pressed to find a shop selection like what Las Vegas offers. From the first destination mall, The Forum Shops, to the best personal shoppers of Neiman Marcus, you’ll be all set for your fashion needs.

The first stop you’ll want to make is at the Shops at the Palazzo; it’s burst at the hem with high-end designs and features the US’s only Rolex store containing their entire collection.

From there, you’ll want to check out the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, where can haggle for a good deal, or Antiquities for rare sports memorabilia, one-of-a-kind vending machines, or autographed photos.

What else?

If you’re looking for more things to do in Las Vegas, look no further. From exploring the finest of the Sin City’s unbelievable illusionists and acrobatic shows to attending the numerous expos, conventions and festivals, there’s plenty to do for singles, couples and families.