Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you plan a trip to Nevada. While many travel blogs will tell you what to do in Nevada, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your trip to Nevada. (starting with the pronunciation: it’s not Nav-ah-da!)
Don’t Think Nevada is Just Las Vegas
Most people think of Las Vegas when they think of Nevada, and that’s where most Nevada travelers go on their first trip. But there’s a lot of cool things to see in Nevada besides the casinos and mega-hotels of Vegas. Nevada has a National Park, National Conservation Areas, dozens of state parks and so much more to explore. Some of the coolest places to visit in Nevada include:
- Great Basin National Park
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- Valley of Fire State Park
- Reno and Lake Tahoe
- Carson City
- Area 51
- Hoover Dam
- Lake Mead
Many of these Nevada destinations can be visited on a day trip from Vegas, too!
Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Even when it’s “cold” outside, the sun is still really strong in Nevada. Even just strolling around the Las Vegas strip, you can easily get a sunburn. The hot, dry climate of Nevada calls for lots of sunscreen and water intake!
Don’t Think it’s Just Desert in Nevada
A lot of Nevada is in the desert, including Las Vegas. But there’s a lot of diverse climates and landscapes in Nevada. Northern Nevada is way different and has part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Of course, Lake Tahoe is famous for skiing and beautiful mountain landscapes year-round.
For the latest news on Nevada Travel visit the state website on travel. www.travelnevada.com
Don’t Be Surprised by Gambling Everywhere
Nevada has long been known for legal gambling, so it’s something that draws tourists in from all over the world, and especially from surrounding states. You expect to see it in casinos, but it’s shocking where else you will find gambling in Nevada. Shopping malls, airports, and gas stations are just a few of the places you’ll find slot machines in Nevada.
Don’t Forget to Fill Up the Gas Tank
Nevada is very sparse outside of the larger cities. With such a low population density, you can go a long time without seeing a gas station. If you are planning a Nevada road trip, always take advantage of any gas stations and top off your tank while you can. (Don’t forget to look out for speed traps on the road, too!)
Don’t Forget to Tip the Casino Servers
One perk of gambling is that you get free drinks while you’re actively gambling. But just because the drinks are free doesn’t mean you shouldn’t tip your server. The better you tip them, the more likely they’ll come by often to check on you. If you don’t tip, you may never see that server again.
Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Vegas
Don’t Miss Out on Local Knowledge
Nevada locals are, for the most part, super friendly. They love sharing their favorite tips and travel destinations. It’s a very chill vibe in Nevada, which you can kind of tell by the lax laws here!
Learn more about Reno & Lake Tahoe from the official Tourism of Reno & Lake Tahoe. www.visitrenotahoe.com
Don’t Worry About Buying Alcohol
Alcohol is readily available at all times in Nevada. Unlike neighboring Utah, which has state-run liquor stores with limited hours, alcohol sales are not restricted in Nevada. There’s not really a last call, so you can have a mimosa at 8am or 8pm or anytime you want!
Don’t Mess Around While Hiking
Nevada has some great hiking trails, but don’t forget to take them seriously. Bring lots of water, sunscreen and a map. Bring someone along with you for safety because if you get lost in the desert or the mountains, you might not see anyone else for a long time!
Don’t Assume Prostitution is Legal Everywhere
Besides gambling, Nevada is also known for legalized prostitution, something no other state has legalized. However, it’s not a blanket statement; it only applies to counties of a certain size. So it’s actually not legal in Vegas. A lot of tourists get caught up by this one. Prostitution is not legal in Las Vegas!
Don’t Try to Export Marijuana
Marijuana is also legal in Nevada, so many tourists try to stock up on products when they visit Nevada. This is a bad idea, though. It’s not legal to take marijuana out of the state. If you choose to partake, keep it in Nevada; don’t try to bring home a souvenir. It’s not worth the risk.
Don’ts of Las Vegas
While Nevada is more than Las Vegas, chances are, you will end up in Vegas at some point. Keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t use casino ATM’s; the fees are ridiculous
- Don’t expect to win big
- Don’t think “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”
- Don’t just stay on the Strip
Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!
Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from planning a trip to Nevada. It’s such a cool state, with really diverse landscapes and activities! Want more tips for traveling through the Southwest US? Check out some of our other blog posts: