Las Vegas is probably one of the cities with the hardest-to-navigate roads. However, it is very unique in that the difficult streets only happen primarily during certain hours, and the hours are different than what is seen in most other large cities. Since Las Vegas is just one big party, Friday and Saturday evenings into the early morning hours of the following days are the times in which driving is a true nightmare in Vegas. During the daytime, driving can still be chaotic and stressful, but it is a bit more manageable. Whether you plan to drive around the city in the day or night, here are some helpful things to remember.
Avoid Driving the Strip
The Strip down Las Vegas Boulevard is easily the worst street in the city and tends to be throughout the day. The Strip gets insanely backed up traffic and is very hard to navigate in the midst of intoxicated pedestrians surrounding the road. Depending on where you are going, driving from one hotel to another, even if they are merely 1-2 miles apart, can sometimes take up to 45 minutes.
If possible, we suggest walking, riding the bus, taking the Vegas monorail system, using a shuttle if your hotel has one, or simply taking a taxi. This way, even if you are on the road, you are not dealing with the difficulty of driving yourself and you have the freedom to alter your route and get out sooner without simply abandoning your car.
Check Your Turns are Clear
Unless there are signs saying otherwise, making a right turn on a red light is legal. However, you have to be extra cautious when doing so in Vegas. Pedestrians walk through the road blindly and carelessly frequently and are often under the influence when doing so. To avoid any accident, it is important that you check for a safe and clear turning availability.
Anticipate Construction
Las Vegas is one of those cities that is perpetually under construction. Whether it is a new hotel being built, a new stadium, or some other form of tourist attraction, there is constantly some form of building underway. This affects driving primarily in the form of road closures and traffic. Be aware of this occurrence to prepare yourself properly.
