Things To Do
in North Las Vegas
North Las Vegas is a growing desert city on the northeast edge of the Las Vegas Valley, known for affordable housing, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to the wider Las Vegas entertainment scene. It sits near the Cannery District and several parks, offering a blend of residential life, outdoor spaces, and developing shopping corridors. The area provides a gateway to outdoor adventures while maintaining a practical base for visitors who want to explore the Las Vegas area without staying on the Strip.
Expect a mix of local dining, community events, and quick drives to world-class entertainment within reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Historic Las Vegas Old Town, where you can admire the vintage architecture and learn about the city’s rich history. Spend some time at the Neon Museum, where you can take a guided tour of the iconic neon signs that once lit up the Las Vegas Strip. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring classic American dishes to fuel your day of exploration.
After lunch, head to the Las Vegas Arts District to explore its eclectic mix of galleries and street art. Take a stroll through the area, stopping at unique shops and perhaps picking up some local art to remember your trip. As the afternoon winds down, visit the Springs Preserve for some beautiful gardens and informative exhibits about the desert ecosystem.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at an authentic local restaurant to experience the flavors of Las Vegas. After dinner, catch a live performance at a nearby venue, showcasing local talent and providing a taste of the vibrant arts scene. End your day with a quiet walk through the Arts District, enjoying the illuminated street art and relaxed atmosphere.
Kick off your morning with a thrilling visit to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where adrenaline runs high with options for speed enthusiasts. Consider taking a driving experience in a race car or watching a practice session of regional racing teams. Grab a hearty breakfast at the Speedway's café to prepare for an action-packed day ahead.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the excitement of the speedway, watching races or participating in go-karting for a more hands-on experience. If you prefer something less intense, check out the nearby Las Vegas Motor Speedway gift shop for memorabilia and unique racing gear. Afterward, unwind with a light lunch at a local burger joint, discussing all the thrilling moments of the day.
As evening descends, head back to the speedway to catch a live race, where the roar of engines and the cheers of fans create an electrifying atmosphere. If racing isn't in the cards, consider visiting a nearby sports bar for a casual dinner while watching the latest games. Wrap up your night with a drive down the Strip, soaking in the dazzling lights of the Las Vegas skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧺Grocery for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gas (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,100-1,600 |
| 🚍Public transit pass (monthly) | $60-75 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Las Vegas attractions
- Desert scenery and outdoor options
- More affordable than the Strip hotels
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Limited walkability in many areas
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to central Las Vegas
- Weather extremes in summer
- Some services concentrated in Las Vegas proper
Places to Visit in North Las Vegas
Visit one of these nice places.
Desert landscapes, wetlands, and open spaces that provide soft natural light and varied backdrops for wide-angle and portrait shots.
Industrial and brick-forward structures with water features and neon accents offer urban-desert contrast for architectural photography.
Desert oasis with ponds, trees, and wildlife; ideal for nature photography and golden-hour landscapes.
Scenic desert vistas and dramatic rock formations provide dramatic lighting and expansive horizon shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in North Las Vegas
North Las Vegas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, flavorful steak served on corn tortillas with salsa and garnish; widely available at casual Mexican eateries and street-food stalls along Craig Road and nearby corridors.
Must-Try!
A classic Las Vegas/Mexican-influenced starter featuring chilled shrimp with tangy tomato-based sauce and pico de gallo; commonly found in seafood-focused or Mexican spots.
A regional favorite adapted from nearby Southwest tastes, offered at casual diners and burger joints; seek places with local twists and good salsas.
A popular breakfast option featuring eggs, salsa, beans, and tortillas; available at many breakfast-focused cafes and diners in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts; a good place to sample regional ingredients and street snacks.
A rotating lineup of mobile vendors offering Mexican, Asian, and American bites; great for quick, flavorful bites on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Casinos typically allow casual wear, but some upscale venues may encourage more polished attire. Respect quiet zones and staff directions within venues.
Service is generally friendly and attentive; a polite, friendly approach is appreciated. When asking for recommendations, a smile and patience go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in North Las Vegas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard tip is 15-20% before tax. For exceptional service, feel free to tip more. Bell staff, valets, and bartenders often expect tips for their services.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with cash still common at many neighborhood spots. Casinos and larger venues support mobile payments as well as card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot with frequent highs above 100°F (38°C). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, carry water, wear sunscreen, and seek shade. Indoor attractions, air-conditioned eateries, and evening outdoor events are popular.
Mild to cool days with cool nights. Layered clothing is recommended; outdoor activities are pleasant in daylight hours, with casinos and restaurants offering warm refuges.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming desert flora. Great time for outdoor hikes and park visits before the heat ramps up.
Comfortable temperatures and lower crowds. Ideal for outdoor exploration and photography around golden-hour light.
North Las Vegas at Night
Hiking in North Las Vegas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 2.0-3.0 mile round-trip hike with great desert views and canyon scenery.
A moderate, scenic hike featuring ancient petroglyphs and desert landscapes.
A longer hike into cooler pines, about 6 miles round-trip with waterfall views.
Flat and easy trails through paleontological landscapes and desert terrain.
Airports
How to reach North Las Vegas by plane.
Major airport serving Las Vegas; typically a 15-20 minute drive to central Las Vegas depending on traffic.
General aviation airport serving the northern fringe of the Las Vegas Valley; not a major commercial hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and growing community, contributing to local cuisine and culture.
Includes both longstanding residents and newcomers.
Growing presence in business and residential communities.
Diverse mix of residents from across the U.S. and abroad.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational and organized play across community centers and gyms.
Numerous public and private golf courses in and around North Las Vegas and the valley.
Desert trails and city parks provide options for running and jogging.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Las Vegas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find salads, veggie bowls, bean-based dishes, and cheese-forward options in many spots. Look for veggie sides, customizable builds, and dishes featuring beans, grains, and salsa. If needed, ask staff about meat-free toppings or sauces and request substitutions to suit dietary needs.