Resident Casino Habits in Las Vegas: More Than Just Tourists

In Las Vegas, the allure of the Strip

is significant, but for many local residents, it is more about entertaining out-of-town guests

than it is a regular part of daily life. The excitement and novelty of the Strip quickly fade

once residents move in, especially due to the challenges of daily traffic and tourist crowds.

Resident Perspective and Preferences

When I lived in Las Vegas, the Strip was my go-to area, but not necessarily for regular

entertainment or gambling. Casino Royale was my preferred spot because it offered a balance

between gambling, dining, and a social atmosphere without the pressure of meeting a

certain standard. I visited the bigger casinos, such as those on the Strip, only when family

or friends were in town, and even then, it was a rare occurrence, about once a month.

For many residents, the Strip is a place to be avoided due to increased traffic, crowds, and

an abundance of titty bar hawkers and aggressive street performers. However, this does not

mean that residents do not enjoy casino life. There are other options, like the Station

properties, which are off the Strip but still offer great dining, entertainment, and amenities.

I particularly enjoyed the atmosphere at the Red Rock Casino, located on the west side

of the city. Despite not being on the Strip, it provided a relaxed and enjoyable

experience that was not tourist-centric. I visited it regularly, even when I did not have

friends or family in town, simply because the ambiance was intriguing and welcoming.

The suburban areas of Las Vegas offer extensive entertainment options

that do not come with the drawbacks of the Strip. With many retailers open 24 hours a day

and the convenience of finding video poker in 7–11s, residents find it easier to enjoy

convenience and entertainment without the hassle of tourist crowds.

Here are some of the alternative options that many locals prefer:

2-for-1 buffet deals Cheap restaurant food and food courts Movies Bowling Arkades Local events Staycations

While some residents do enjoy gambling, the majority view the Strip as a place primarily

for out-of-town guests. Las Vegas residents are more likely to visit local resorts and areas

off the Strip to enjoy a wide range of entertainment options without the inconvenience

of tourists, traffic, and high prices associated with the Strip.

For those who do choose to visit the Strip, it is usually for special occasions or to

entertain guests, ensuring that the experience is enriching and memorable for all.

The question of whether most residents in Las Vegas go to the casinos only when

taking out-of-town guests can be answered with a nuanced perspective. While the Strip

may lose its allure for local residents due to the constant tourist presence and other

drawbacks, there are plenty of alternative options available. These options provide

a more relaxed and convenient entertainment experience, making Las Vegas truly

a city for everyone to explore and enjoy.