The Savvy Traveler


Feb 04 2007

No Driving Allowed in Vegas Take in the Sights with Alternate Transportation

Published by Jennifer at 11:45 pm under Continental U.S., Hot Cities, Las Vegas, Travel Spots

There is so much to see and do in Las Vegas. While you are there, you may have to consider how you would like to get around town and see and do everything that you want to do.

For starters, you have your own two feet. If you are in decent physical shape, have plenty of time, and do not mind the Las Vegas heat, you can see the sights and get from place to place just by walking. However, show schedules, the weather, and your physical endurance may not always make this possible.

As with many other vacation destinations, you can always rent a car in Las Vegas. However, keep in mind that this is really only a good option if you are planning to go outside city limits to see things. Traffic is a major issue, plus you will have to deal with finding a parking space. Not to mention that if you have a little too much fun enjoying the Las Vegas nightlife you will have to arrange for alternate transportation back to your room anyways.

Taxis are one good option in Las Vegas. You can catch one outside of most of the hotels, or you can always call one of the numerous cab companies. These are a great option if you enjoy a few drinks while you gamble or if you have never been to Las Vegas before and need help finding attractions.

Another option is the Las Vegas Strip Trolley. The trolley runs along Las Vegas Boulevard from 9:30 AM to 2 AM daily. If you are not in a hurry, this is a great way to go. The trip is slow, but you can see a lot of the sights along the way. Plus, the low cost fare may be quite enjoyable after spending big bucks at the gambling tables and slot machines.

For a free ride, you can also catch the monorail system that was setup by a few of the hotels. The monorail runs between Bally’s and MGM, the Bellagio and the Monte Carlo, and the Mirage, Treasure Island, Mandalay Bay, Excalibur, and the Luxor. This is a particularly nice option on the really warm days when you do not want to be out walking in the Las Vegas heat. It is fast moving, and not too expensive at $5 a ride, however be warned that the stops are not always going to be conveniently located to your room or hotel.

If you are more interested in seeing Las Vegas than participating, you can consider a helicopter tour. This will give you a unique bird’s eye view of the Strip and the scenery near Las Vegas. Keep in mind that there is a weight limit for a helicopter, so you may not be allowed to bring a large group or lots of bags. You will have an assigned seat on the helicopter to distribute weight evenly, but with the glass cockpit and sides there is not a bad view to be had. The noise can be deafening, so you will be given earphones to help drown out the noise of the engines and to narrate everything you are seeing. From the air, depending on the tour you have selected, you may be able to see everything from the Strip to the desert to Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Some flights will even touch down at the Grand Canyon to allow for a sight seeing break. Prices range depending on the length and type of tour that you take, and accommodations can be made for children and those with disabilities.

However you decide to get around Las Vegas, you are sure to have your own unique experience. Be sure to plan your schedule ahead of time so that you can see all the sights that the city has to offer.

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