Visitors to Las Vegas may have different ideas about what they want to do based on all the incredible activities offered in the Entertainment Capital of the World. But one thing everybody can agree on is that everyone will have a good time! It all hinges on discovering what aspect of the city fits you best. For some people, the glitz and landmarks of The Strip are the main attraction. For others, the history and coziness of Downtown make for a more rewarding experience.
So, who wins the Vegas Strip vs. Downtown matchup? You do – every single time. Once you know the difference between the two locations, you can choose your Las Vegas adventure! Here’s all you need to know to chart your stay.
It’s not that you can’t walk around The Strip, but each of the properties in the area is spread apart, so you can’t get from one place to another as easily. In Downtown, on the other hand, you’re always a few short steps from the next fun thing to do. Areas like Fremont Street have pedestrian-only zones filled with attractions like The Mob Museum and the Fremont Street Experience, featuring ziplining and fun shows. There’s also Circa Resort and its exciting destinations, such as the pool/sportsbook combo at Circa Stadium Swim® and the fantastic bars and restaurants. When you stay at Golden Gate Las Vegas, you’re in the heart of one of the most fun spots to walk around!
If you’re looking for eye-popping sites and glamorous places to wander around, then The Strip has the goods! Whether you’re talking about the iconic Fountains of Bellagio or other famous landmarks, this part of Vegas will make quite the impression. From roller coasters that fly inside casinos to re-creations of cities like Paris and Venice, the whole four-plus miles is designed to be significant in every way—down to the vast must-see shows. That’s not to say there aren’t great shows Downtown, because there are comedy clubs and the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, but The Strip has more of that “wow factor.”
All that razzle-dazzle on The Strip we mentioned earlier is very impressive, but it also costs significantly more. The pricier attractions in that part of town are great, but what Downtown offers is just as thrilling and can be had at a fraction of Strip prices. The Fremont Street Experience has everything from free live music to light shows. If you love betting on your favorite teams, Circa’s three-story Sportsbook hosts the largest sportsbook screen in the world. Wander in and out of quirky exhibits like Neon Museum or test your axe-throwing skills at the Axehole. The Strip will put a bigger dent in your wallet, from drinks to diversions, no matter how you cut it. When considering Vegas Strip vs. Fremont Street, the latter offers just as much excitement but at a cheaper cost.
You won’t have difficulty finding excellent drinking and dining destinations wherever you hang out in Las Vegas. But Downtown has an edge on the most delicious meals and fabulous adult beverages. Fine dining options like Barry’s Downtown Prime Steaks and Cocktails in the Circa pair class with unbeatable meals, while the D Bar slings frozen libations and mixed drinks like nobody’s business. For those seeking variety, it’s tough to beat the generously packed Container Park and its amazing eateries. Of course, The Strip has excellent dining options as well. But, if you want the best of both worlds, casual and fine dining, a short walk away, Downtown is your foodie destination.
In recent decades, Las Vegas has gone from a fully adult playground to a family-friendly destination with plenty of grown-up options. Downtown has plenty of excellent activities that kids will love, whether it’s the wonder awaiting at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum or one of the mini golf spots. The Strip has big-name attractions that the wee ones will enjoy, such as Marvel and Disney properties. On all the walkways connecting different destinations, you see more strollers than ever. So even if Downtown has its fair share of kids’ stuff, The Strip edges it out.
Part of the charm of Las Vegas lies in its legendary history. From the humble beginnings of Fremont Street, which was the first paved road in the city, to the first iconic casinos like the Golden Gate, the past always looms large for Vegas fans—the place to see all that is Downtown. If you want to feel the original vibe of this town, areas like the Fremont East Entertainment District preserve that spirit. Pairing nicely with those places is the cultural efforts forged in Downtown. The Downtown Las Vegas Art District attracts creators who bring their works out to show and folks who love to check it all out. Fostering a blend of creative spirit and that old-school Vegas feel is something that The Strip can’t conjure up, and, of course, there are plenty of modern amenities in the middle of it all. You can bounce from the classic Golden Gate one minute and hit the more modern Circa Casino the next! It’s the best of both worlds!
Whether you’re betting on The Strip or Downtown Las Vegas for a good time, you can be sure that, either way, you’ll be the winner. There’s something for everyone in this incredible city, so get out there and experience it all!
