Living in Las Vegas includes much more than gambling, casinos, and world-class entertainment. For example, most outsiders have no idea that the area offers tons of outdoor adventure.
Right on the outskirts of Las Vegas, is an incredible red rock landscape under a clear blue sky. You’ll also discover the endless shores of Lake Mead, and get to know wild burros, horses, and bighorn sheep. And those tall, snowcapped mountains to the west hide many secrets, including a ski resort.
Living in Las Vegas changes not only your lifestyle but also your outlook on life. It’s a real place where real people live; in addition to the swanky casino eateries, there are thousands of hidden, neighborhood gems.
With plenty of sunshine and things to do, what’s not to love about Las Vegas?
The Weather
Las Vegas enjoys around 300 sunny days every year, and with an average annual temperature of 80 degrees. While the height of the summer can reach 100 degrees, it’s a dry heat; moreover, you can escape to the cool, alpine heights of Mount Charleston in 30 minutes.
Best of all, unlike other regions of the US, the desert Southwest does not have natural disasters; you’ll never need to worry about hurricanes, tornadoes, or blizzards again.
True, you need to be careful in the heat. You’ll also need to stay out of dry washes during thunderstorms, to avoid being swept away in a flash flood. And while Vegas does get an occasional, mild earthquake, it is nothing like those in California. Overall, the weather is wonderful in fabulous Las Vegas.
No State Income Tax
Taxes on gambling revenue and gaming licenses means that Nevada residents don’t pay state income tax. In fact, the gaming industry pays nearly a billion dollars in gambling taxes annually.
On the other hand, gas taxes are a bit high in the state; but, those tax dollars are put right into the excellent roads. You’ll be able to use the money you save on taxes to take road trips all over this fascinating region.
The Restaurant Scene
You don’t need to go to the Las Vegas Strip to find fabulous food. Not only are Michelin-starred restaurants all over Las Vegas, but affordable, neighborhood eateries too.
If you live in Las Vegas, unless you work there, you probably will avoid The Strip. But, when you want something over-the-top, a special dinner on The Strip fits the bill. Imagine taking your out-of-town relatives to Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen at the iconic Caesar’s Palace. Or, sampling rare wines at Aureole, at the Mandalay Bay.
If you really want to eat like a local, get acquainted with Roberto’s Taco Shop, open 24 hours a day. You’ll feast on some of the best Mexican food on the planet, for less than $10 a plate.
Outdoor Adventure
While tourists imagine Las Vegas as non-stop, neon glitz and glamour, locals are much more about outdoor adventure. Kayaking, rock climbing, camping, hiking, and off-roading are all just minutes away.
Right on the western edge of town, you’ll find spectacular Red Rock Canyon, an acclaimed destination for rock climbers. On the eastern edge of the city, Lake Mead holds many adventures, from boating, fishing, camping, and kayaking.
To the northwest, majestic, snow-capped Mount Charleston looms large. Its pine-covered slopes are a favorite place to get out of the summer heat. And in the winter, the snow-covered slopes of Lee Canyon offer skiing and snowboarding.
You’ll never need to drive more than half an hour to get out of the city, to find yourself in the heart of nature.
Travel is Easy
While flights from Las Vegas can take you anywhere in the world, road trips from Las Vegas are also easy. Los Angeles is around 4 or 5 hours away, as well as Phoenix. St. George, Utah, the gateway to the spectacular national parks, is only 2 hours away.
And the rural reaches of Nevada have much to offer too, from wide-open roads, spectacular scenery, and Old West ghost towns. Once you get behind the wheel and start driving, you may never go home.
There is Always Something to Do
The bottom line is, there is always something to do in Las Vegas, no matter the time. Whether you’re on The Strip or off, Vegas is open 24 hours a day. Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, casinos, and even grocery stores are open around the clock.
If you love concerts and shows, living in Las Vegas puts you front and center. Every big-name act comes through town. More than that, local talent is abundant, as are free shows and family-friendly entertainment.
From the Cirque du Soleil to the National Finals Rodeo and camping, Vegas has it all.
