I'm heading to Las Vegas next week. We're interested in exploring the city off the strip, to get a feel for the real flavor of the "old" Las Vegas. It also looks like there are some interesting art exhibits at the libraries out there, so we might want to check those out.

My question: How safe is it for an obvious tourist to go exploring off-strip, cameras and city maps in hand? We're from NYC, so not much scares us, but I just thought I'd ask.

Thanks in advance!

Amita, downtown Las Vegas is likely where you'll encounter old LV, although there isn't much left. You'll be surrounded by other visitors, but it's our experience people in LV are pretty oblivious to others. Use standard precautions and you'll be fine. One benefit of LV is that night time is even more crowded than the day in many areas. Watch out for the heat as you tromp around, and remember that there are plenty of cool beverages (100 proof) available at no charge in all those nice air conditioned casinos. Provided you sit at the blackjack tables and contribute to the employee benefits package.

Don't forget a tour of Hoover Dam if time permits - very rewarding for first timers.

I've heard some warn about wandering in the area around the Stratosphere, especially after dark, and I've seen areas between the Strip and downtown where I wouldn't want to be. You could post this on www.lvol.com forum and see what others say. Have a good time; I'm hoping to get out that way soon.

It is not publicized very much but Las Vegas has a pretty high crime rate. There are definitely areas that you do not want to wander around in. Las Vegas does not really have a traditional downtown area like many cities of it's size. What is referred to as downtown Las Vegas is really nothing but several casinos. If you visit downtown, do not wander away from the busy area ( Fremont ). It is also true that the northern area of the strip around the Stratosphere is pretty seedy.

You might want to visit UNLV which is quite close to the strip.

My advice to first time visitors to Las Vegas is to stay on the strip. That is really what Las Vehas is all about with the glitz and the glamor.

Thanks very much for your input everyone! I've posted this question to LVOL and I'll see what they have to say.

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