Sin City is the entertainment capital of the world and, in a nutshell, Disneyland for adults. A simple walk down the Strip will send you into sensory overload from the dizzying array of over-the-top lights, sights, and sounds. The City That Never Sleeps boasts bustling casinos, grand attractions, massive hotels, and extravagant shows you'd expect.

However, today’s Vegas is not all gambling and showgirls, and no matter your taste or style, there’s truly something for everyone. Your vacation might include relaxing cocktails in a poolside cabana and a spa appointment at your luxury resort or an adrenaline-pumping zipline ride and helicopter tour, followed by all-night partying at some of the best nightclubs. It even has a thriving gay scene. No matter how you decide to spend your time there, though, just remember that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas…unless you put it on social media, that is.

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Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Las Vegas
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Las Vegas
5. Restaurants & Cafes in Las Vegas
6. Las Vegas Gay Bars and Clubs
7. Las Vegas Saunas & Cruising Bars
8. Gay Events in Las Vegas
9. Day Trips from Las Vegas

General Tips

Although Las Vegas is a 24/7 oasis in the desert, it’s not always pool weather. In fact, it can get quite chilly in the winter months (December–February) with lows dropping into the upper 30s and highs in the upper 50s and 60s. On the other hand, summer months (June–August) are no stranger to daytime temperatures over 100 degrees. The best times to visit are the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) shoulder seasons, when temperatures are more moderate. Before booking, be sure to check the city’s tourism board convention schedule, as this can greatly impact room prices at certain hotels. Las Vegas is one of the best budget gambling destinations because you can often find incredibly low hotel midweek rates at nice properties. The hotels and resorts of course know that they may lose money on the room but will make up for it in entertainment and gaming spend.

There are two main areas to consider when booking a place to stay: the Las Vegas Strip and downtown. The Strip is the most popular and generally more convenient for shows and attractions. For a break from the hustle and bustle, downtown Vegas is just a short ride north and typically offers a more low-key atmosphere. Although there are gay pool parties, drag shows, and restaurants catering to the LGBTQ+ audience, the hub of gay bars and clubs is in the so-called “Fruit Loop,” located just off the Strip, where you’ll find a relaxed local gay scene.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Harry Reid International Airport is the main commercial airport serving Las Vegas, located in Paradise, just 5 miles south of downtown and right alongside the Vegas Strip. It’s so close that you can often enjoy amazing bird's-eye views of the dazzling hotels and attractions as you take off and land. Terminal 1 handles domestic flights, while Terminal 3, the newer terminal, serves international and some domestic flights as well.

There are several options to get to your accommodations from the airport, including bus, shuttle, taxi, rideshare, and car rental. We recommend using a rideshare like Lyft or Uber to reach your hotel and get around the city. At Terminal 1, rideshare pickup is located on level 2 of the parking garage. At Terminal 3, rideshare pickup is on the valet level of the Terminal 3 parking garage.

For both rideshare and taxis, it’s only a 10- to 15-minute drive whether you’re staying on the Strip or downtown (north of the Strip). Rideshare and taxis are similarly priced, costing anywhere from $15 to $30 depending on the distance to your hotel, time of day, and traffic.

There are also a few bus routes that serve the airport and make stops at major resorts like the SAHARA, Desert Inn, Flamingo, and Tropicana. Additionally, a handful of shuttles run to and from hotels and resorts, and inter-city shuttles are available as well. If you’re planning a day trip, renting a car may be a good option. The Harry Reid Rent-A-Car Center is located just 3 miles south of the airport, with a shuttle available to and from the airport.

Monorail – To quickly and easily get from one end of the Strip to the other, consider taking the Las Vegas Monorail to avoid traffic and crowds. Its route stretches 3.9 miles from the SAHARA Las Vegas Station to the MGM Grand Station, with 5 stops in between.Get tickets →

Gay Hotels & Accommodation in Las Vegas

There aren't any gay-exclusive hotels in Las Vegas, but there are plenty of gay-friendly options.

Luxury

Wynn Las Vegas – Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, the Wynn offers 5-star accommodations with serene and stylish luxury rooms and suites. Guests can see headline acts at the theater, enjoy entertainment lounges, dine at restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines, relax at the pool and spa, shop designer brands, try their luck at the casino, and play at the championship golf course.

Encore – A luxury resort, casino, and hotel connected to its sister resort, Wynn Las Vegas. Guests can see headline acts at the theater, enjoy entertainment lounges, dine at top restaurants, relax at the pool and spa, shop designer brands, try their luck at the casino, and enjoy the championship golf course.

Mid-Range

Luxor – Located near the southern end of the Strip, this iconic pyramid-shaped hotel features unique pyramid rooms with slanted windows, as well as rooms in its two towers. On-site amenities are extensive, offering shows like Blue Man Group, a variety of dining options, pools with cabanas, a spa, salon, and casino.

Flamingo – With its signature pink neon lights, the Flamingo has been a staple on the Las Vegas Strip since 1946 and is close to the Flamingo/Caesars Palace Monorail Station. Many rooms have been recently renovated with a minimalist design and playful touches. Guests can enjoy the adults-only pool with waterfalls, the casino, shows like RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE!, numerous restaurants, a spa, luxury shopping, nightlife, and a salon.

MGM Grand – Just a five-minute walk from the MGM Grand Monorail Station, this resort and casino hosts star-studded events at the MGM Garden Arena, performances like Cirque du Soleil, restaurants by celebrity chefs, and outstanding nightlife. Rooms and suites are modern and well-appointed, and the resort features a spacious casino, spa, salon, and pool complex with a lazy river and pool-party atmosphere.

Virgin Hotels – A large hotel not far from the main Las Vegas Strip. Expect quality from Virgin, with a massive pool area, several bars and restaurants, convenience stores, lush lounges, and even an on-site golf course and casino. Sleek, spacious rooms provide great views across Sin City.

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Sightseeing & Activities in Las Vegas

Fountains of Bellagio –A stroll down the famed Las Vegas Strip isn’t complete without stopping to enjoy this iconic show of artfully interwoven water, music, and light. The best part? It’s free for any visitor to admire. We recommend stopping by at night when the spectacle is in full effect every 15 minutes.

New York, New York – A hotel, casino, collection of bars, theme park, and all-around adult playground designed to look like a giant replica of New York City! Explore and maybe ride the Big Apple Coaster, which winds around much of the hotel resort.

The Strat – Marking the beginning—or maybe the end, depending on your perspective— of the Strip is The Strat Tower, dominating the Vegas skyline. It’s a hotel and casino, but also features a spectacular observation deck with views from 1,149 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, the highest free-standing observation tower in the U.S. Above even that, you’ll find thrill rides that precariously take advantage of the terrifying heights.

The Fremont Experience – This pedestrian-friendly entertainment district spans five city blocks in downtown Las Vegas, where old-school Vegas charm meets modern entertainment. Known for its vibrant LED canopy, the Viva Vision light show dazzles visitors with synchronized light and sound displays across the ceiling. Street performers, free live music stages, a variety of bars, and a zip line soaring through the neon lights add to the bustling atmosphere, as do classic Vegas casinos like the Golden Nugget.

Gondola Rides at the Venetian – Venice might be flooding, but you’ll always find a taste of Italian romance in Vegas with gondola rides inside The Venetian hotel resort. You’ll glide under bridges, beside cafes, and along the Grand Canal. A singing gondolier pilots each gondola, providing a live serenade.

The Mob Museum – Located in downtown Vegas, this is the place to learn about the gangsters who once ruled the streets with organized crime. Your entrance ticket provides access to all exhibits, including movies, mob artifacts, and more.Get tickets →

Nighttime Helicopter Ride – What’s more stunning than bird’s-eye panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip at night? On this helicopter flight, enjoy breathtaking views of the Bellagio Fountain, the Luxor’s laser beam, and the Stratosphere Tower. Book tour →

Nighttime Bus Tour – Prefer something more grounded? See the dazzling city lights on an open-top bus tour of the Las Vegas Strip and downtown. Highlights include the Fremont Street Experience, the Mirage volcano eruption, and the dancing Bellagio fountains. Book tour →

Chippendales – This sexy performance was originally created for the ladies, but everyone can enjoy the 12 hunky male dancers performing a variety of tasteful yet erotic routines. The intimate venue at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino offers several seating options. Get tickets →

Magic Mike – Loved the movies? The best part was the performances, and that’s what you’ll get to see in this strip-tease show, featuring plenty of dancing and acrobatics from 13 male performers. Get tickets →

Drag Brunch at Senor Frogs – A new twist on brunch in Vegas. This hilarious show features fabulous drag queens in a highly interactive performance with stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Brace yourself for wigs and swigs at the hottest drag brunch in town at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino.Get tickets →

RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! – Debuting in 2020 at the Flamingo Las Vegas, this show brings your favorite Drag Race queens to life in a performance based on the Emmy-winning reality show. Enjoy as the all-star cast takes you through a drama-filled live season of Drag Race. Get tickets →

Restaurants and Cafes

Mr. Mamas – There’s breakfast, and then there’s breakfast at Mr. Mamas, a diner serving American home cooking. After a late night out, this is our go-to for breakfast classics like the famous Cali Omelet, Mama’s Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs, French toast, pancakes, and giant cinnamon rolls.

Tacos El Gordo – Don’t let the line out the door intimidate you—it’s worth the wait. For authentic tacos at hole-in-the-wall prices, this is our favorite in Vegas. From carne asada to al pastor, you can’t go wrong. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a taco with tripe or tongue and pile it high with salsas and toppings.

Le Cirque – This restaurant embodies the fun, whimsical spirit of Cirque du Soleil with an elegant fine-dining atmosphere. Indulge in exquisite French cuisine paired with selections from a coveted wine list and impeccable service.

Peppermill – This classic diner-like restaurant claims to be “as Vegas as Vegas gets,” and it isn’t wrong. Located on the main Strip, it’s been featured in several Hollywood movies with its mirrored walls and artificial trees. They serve generous portions for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, from waffles to burgers and steak.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab – Known for its Florida Stone Crab claws, Joe’s offers a delectable selection of steaks and fresh seafood flown in daily. This is a favorite for special occasions, with superb food complemented by excellent service and a classic steakhouse ambiance.

Chin Chin – A Los Angeles Chinese favorite, Chin Chin has made its way to the New York-New York Hotel and Casino. Stop by for generous portions, reasonable prices, and a wide menu that includes sushi, bao, Chinese Chicken Salad, and tasty Dim Sum in a contemporary setting.

Gay Bars and Clubs in Las Vegas

Badlands Saloon – Located in the Commercial Center, this low-key country-western bar attracts a 30-something male crowd. It’s perfect for meeting friends for a drink before heading out. Drinks are affordable, with daily happy hours and weekend specials.

The Garage – One of Vegas’s best neighborhood gay bars, with a friendly local crowd, video poker, slots, pool, and other bar games. The staff fit the “garage” theme and serve generously poured drinks. Check out daily happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with 2-for-1 drinks.

Charlie's Las Vegas – It’s always a party at Charlie’s! Go for the in-your-face drag shows and stay for the cowboy servers and sexy go-go boys. Different themes run each night with daily drink specials like $3 Long Islands on Sundays and Guys in Underwear Drink Free on Wednesdays. Enjoy the huge dance floor, pool tables, and slots. Charlie's is temporarily closed due to reopen at a new destionation soon.

Phoenix Bar & Lounge – Locally owned and operated, this spacious gay bar offers a relaxed lounge atmosphere with karaoke, pool, and a dance floor. Drop in for happy hour specials and events like drag shows, video bingo, trivia, and guest DJs.

Queen Bar Las Vegas -As the name implies, you'll find a lot of iconic drag queens performing in this bar/restaurant along the strip. On weekends, their signature Drag Brunch is the place to be for bottomless mimosas and elevated drag performances. The bar also hosts themed parties and drag bingo nights.  Their nightclub, Quarma, is right next to the bar and hosts huge circuit like parties throughout the year.

Fun Hog Ranch – You don't have to be a pig to go to this rustic-feeling gay dive bar, but it probably helps. They encourage fetish gear but are truly welcoming, and every night they seem to have a drink offer. The first Saturday of every month is “gear night,” perfect for going all out on the leathers.

Gipsy – This upscale gay nightclub used to be legendary before it sadly closed in 2020. However, you can't keep a good gypsy down, and it has recently reopened in a new location. In addition to top DJs, you can expect shows ranging from traditional burlesque and cutting-edge drag and cabaret to innovative performances reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

Piranha Nightclub – In the Paradise Fruit Loop, this is one of Vegas’s top gay nightclubs. With a stylish, energetic crowd, this is the place to see and be seen. You may catch resident queens, including a few Drag Race alums.

Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars in Las Vegas

Entourage Vegas –  Vegas’s only gay bathhouse, with over 12,000 square feet of men-only enjoyment. Guests can swim in the heated pool, work out in the gym, and get steamy in the sauna and steam room. There’s also a jacuzzi, 60 private rooms, and a maze in this erotic playhouse.

Gay Events in Las Vegas

Temptation Sundays at The Luxor – After Sunday brunch, head to the Oasis Pool at the Luxor Hotel and Casino to party all day with the hottest speedo-wearing locals and tourists in Vegas. Hosted by J.Son from NakedBoyNews.com, this event takes place every Sunday in the summer from 1–7 p.m.

Las Vegas Pride – Hosted by the Southern Nevada Association of PRIDE, Inc., Las Vegas Pride’s mission is to create safe and inclusive spaces and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. From its first gay Pride Celebration in 1983, it has evolved into a massive event held each year in mid-October. The parade takes place at night in downtown, and the festival is held at Sunset Park, featuring performances and exhibitors.

Hustlaball – Las Vegas’s biggest sex and dance party, taking place every January. The only gay weekend of its kind in North America, it combines Circuit party vibes with gay eroticism, kink, bondage, and celebrity. The schedule includes the main Hustlaball on Saturday night, a Sexy Underwear Party on opening night, and a special XXX Men Only VIP night.

Las Vegas Gay Rodeo – The Nevada Gay Rodeo Association aims to preserve the Western lifestyle and keep rodeo traditions alive for Nevada’s LGBTQ+ community. Check their website for upcoming events like a masquerade ball, cowboy bingo, and their signature event, the BigHorn Rodeo.

Day Trips from Las Vegas

Grand Canyon – One of the most popular day trips from Vegas, the Grand Canyon’s West Rim is only about a 2.5-hour drive from the city. It’s a scenic route that takes you over the Hoover Dam and past Lake Mead and Boulder City. Here, you’ll find the horseshoe-shaped Skywalk Glass Bridge, which cantilevers guests over the 4,000-foot drop below. The South Rim, the most visited spot of the Grand Canyon, will take you about 4.5 hours to reach. Get there early and consider activities like hiking, river running, biking, and mule rides. The North Rim, at almost 5 hours away, is the most remote, with smaller crowds and some of the best views. Be aware that the North Rim is closed in the winter months. Book tour →

Bryce Canyon & Zion National Park – The 3-hour drive to Zion National Park in southwest Utah is well worth the trek from Sin City. Known for its stunning orange-red sandstone cliffs that tower above the green valley floor, Zion’s otherworldly landscape is awe-inspiring. Just an hour further is Bryce Canyon National Park (4 hours from Vegas). This breathtaking nature preserve is marked by crimson-colored hoodoos, spire-shaped rock formations that rise up from the ground. Take in the incredible natural amphitheater filled with hoodoos, or hike down to the bottom of the canyon for a unique perspective.Book tour →

Hoover Dam – Just a half-hour drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel, standing over 725 feet above the Colorado River on one side and holding back Lake Mead on the other. After driving over the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge, you can park and walk up to the bridge itself. Stop at the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River. Book tour →

Featured image credit: Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

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