Las Vegas was closed for many months (March-June) and recently has Reopened. As the businesses slowly start to open back up, you will see alot of changes on the Strip.

You’re probably wondering what Vegas looks like during a Pandemic right? I had the opportunity to visit Vegas this past weekend and I was very surprised in many ways: Good and Bad!

What to expect

For starters, many casinos have decided to waive parking fees and some have promised to not bring them back for at least a year. During our stay, Valet was completely closed which was fine with us. Safer for not only the Valet employees but also the guests.

Unfortunately you will not see a decrease in the resort fees. Which to be honest, I was not happy about. First of all, I think its ridiculous to have the high price resort fees anyway and especially during COVID the fees should have decreased or been waived. Paying $60 for a resort fee and not having access to any of the amenities is a complete waste! And yes, I tried to find a way to not pay but it is MANDATORY at all resorts. You will find some stories online but after tons of calls and research, the truth is that there is no way out of paying it!

Most resorts will offer you a goodie bag filled with some helpful items.

At The Venetian, for instance the goodie bag included two face masks, a small bottle of hand sanitizer, hand wipes and two metal hooks that look like giant keys. These “tools” are designed to enable guests to pull open doors and push elevator buttons without touching any foreign surface.

At MGM the guest goodie bags were very similar except that MGM had casino branded filter masks available in the pouch.

Restaurants are at limited capacity and menus are all digital. Menus are not available at arrival- You Scan via your mobile device when seated. Alot of restaurants are still closed, so make sure to check before heading out to enjoy your favorite meal.

Was it different?

YES! It most definitely was very different! It was not “Business as usual” on the Strip nor in the Casinos. We did see a lot of foot traffic on Saturday but it died down on Sunday and Monday was a Ghost Town.

I was told that the usual 24/7 tide of tourists and traffic jams hasn’t been happening, but it slowly is coming back and visitors are happy to be able to enjoy “Sin City” once again, even with these restrictions.

Don’t expect it to be the “Vegas” you are use too! Clubs are closed… no drunk party goers stumbling down the Blvd, no taxis rushing all over town, Strip Clubs are not open, no concerts or grand shows and the only “show girls” you will see are a few “can- can girls” walking around for photo ops. The Strip is definitely not the Vegas that you are use too!

I spoke with a few people and they said that it just felt “weird” and that even though they knew it would be different, it was just one word-Weird!

Did I feel “Safe”?

I did feel a little nervous on the weekend. It was very crowded, much different then I had imagined! Lots of people on the streets. Mostly families and very large groups.

It was very busy due to Weddings 10/10/20. Significant date and a lot of people that had big weddings planned opted to do a smaller wedding in Vegas. So like I said- Saturday was insane! Definitely out of my comfort bubble!

To help ease my worry- On Saturday Evening: I went from the car to my room and limited contact with people as much as possible.

We had an amazing room at the Venetian-Palazzo Suites so staying in the room was not a problem! We sipped on some cocktails while enjoying the huge window overlooking Vegas.

When things quieted down we took a stroll outside and enjoyed the evening, we also walked through the resort and explored the stores and food places during the late evening. I felt more comfortable in the late evening, it was less crowded than during the daytime.

The following day we headed out for some fun. It was definitely a lot quieter and more enjoyable. I would highly recommend if possible to visit during the week if you can. It was like a ghost town! Which during the Pandemic, I can appreciate!

There were a mixture of people. Some seemed to be cautious and respectful and others seemed to not really worry that they were in a crowd of 100 people. On the Streets approximately 90% of the People did have masks on and 100% in the Casinos and Hotels.

The BLVD was packed with People but it was also well equipped with many Police Officers that kept the crowds under control. I honestly felt like every Officer in Vegas was on the Strip Saturday night.

Most Casinos also have a Strict Policy about wearing masks and also keeping a 6ft distance. There are also thermal cameras at the entrance of most Casinos and the Video surveillance is top notch.

Things that made me a little nervous-

Being on an elevator with other people made me feel nervous so I opted to wait for our own elevator. We used hand sanitizer all the time & used our elbows to push buttons and doors. There were some people on the strip that were not wearing masks but that was only a few. I am a friendly person so it was very hard to not strike up conversations and hang out with people. That was really the only time I felt nervous. I was happy that I was able to make a safe trip to Vegas do-able!

So what are some of the safety measures that you will see?

Well, for instance in the Casinos you will see everyone wearing masks-it is State Policy and the Casinos are very strict about reinforcing this.

Upon entering: most Casinos have extra Security and have thermal cameras checking peoples temperature. I actually was speaking to one of the Officers about safety protocols when a gentleman walked in and the detector went off. So I know that they are working!

On the floor, there are numerous hand washing stations and more hand sanitizer stations then I have ever seen in my life!

The Casino dealers have safety shields protecting them and you are asked to seat 6 ft away from your neighbor.

The cleaning staff was very attentive and constantly wiping things down everywhere we went.

Some of the Casinos are offering a “Welcome Pack’ which consists of hand sanitizer, a mask and a few other goodies.

Some resorts have opened up the pool area but you are asked to wear your mask at all times. Options are: You can rent a cabana or put your name on a list for a spot when it becomes available.

Some hotels are offering “self check in/out” via your own mobile device so you have a touch free experience.

Restaurants that are open operate at half capacity and menus are digital.

I know a lot of you come to Vegas for the Grand Buffets but FYI- most Buffets are closed. No more buffets and most places are not offering happy hour specials on drinks and a Very limited food menu.

Hotel Safety

Hotels

We stayed at both the Venetian as well as the MGM Grand. I was quite impressed with the attention to detail and safety precautions that were in place.

Thermal cameras, HVAC systems, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer avail throughout the Casino. Cleaning Staff is on 24/7 to make sure everything is wiped down.

Venetian and Pallazo Towers

Luxury Las Vegas experience in a clean and safe environment. They offer the Venetian clean commitment. I felt that upon entering that this Casino was on top of things. I even noticed EMTs walking around the Casino to assist if there was a medical issues as well as extra staff to help clean, monitor and direct visitors.

MGM Resort

MGM Resorts offers multiple hotel options in Las Vegas where you can feel safe, including Bellagio, Aria, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Luxor, Excalibur, and more. They have enacted a Seven-Point Safety Plan. 

The plan includes extensive employee screening, training, and temperature checks. Gloves and masks are worn by all employees, including those within the casino gaming environment. There have been major improvements and upgrades to the HVAC controls, including new air filtration systems.  

Would I recommend Vegas right now?

Whether it is a must that you travel due to work or that you are taking a leisure trip it is important that you stay safe and protect yourself during this pandemic.

On my recent trip to Las Vegas even though it wasn’t the party town that I am used to, there were so many fun activities that you could still partake it. It is all up to you and your comfort level. But it is possible to find a way to enjoy some time in Vegas.

Staying safe in Vegas

• Carry your own hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. While hand sanitizer is readily available almost everywhere you go, it is nice to have your own on hand (and yeah… no pun intended!).
• Try to open and hold doors with elbows, feet or occasionally the “booty” is good at pushing a door open! When pushing buttons try to use your knuckle and of course after each time-SANITIZE!
• Don’t drink from the cups/glasses in your hotel room. And to be honest most Hotels currently do not have glasses and coffee pots in the room.
• If you want to be super cautious I heard that there is an app available to notify you if you have been exposed to the virus. You can find it at http://www.nvhealthresponse.nv.gov

My advice-

I highly recommend to visit on a weekday when you have less visitors and more elbow room.

Research the Hotel and see what safety steps they are following.

Choose a Hotel that has a strict Covid19 Policy such as masks, social distancing and also offers a specialized cleaning protocol for the hotel room.

If you are trying to avoid the ” Smokey Casino” scene AKA-cigarette smoke: the MGM Grand is now a complete Smoke Free facility. They also offer an entrance to the Hotel that allows you to enter without accessing the Casino floor.

Avoid Fremont Street. The lights are nice but it was a complete headache when we drove through. It honestly looked like a Mardi Gras Parade. I was trying to limit myself to very little contact with people so we opted to pass on walking down Freemont this visit.

To avoid large crowds, walk the Strip-Las Vegas BLVD in the late evening. It is less crowded and you can relax a bit.

Take a peak in the shopping area, food hall, many restaurants or galleries and see how your comfort level is. If it is too busy just skip and try another time. There were so many places that we decided to pass on because I just didn’t feel comfortable. There is so much to see and do to keep yourself busy, you don’t need to stress yourself out!

Activities

There is no way to tell when the show will go on in Vegas, so for the time being try to find other activities to keep your visit fun!

Here are a few things that I recommend to still partake in and feel safe and comfortable while visiting Las Vegas.

Hotels:

Pallazo by Venetian and MGM Grand get a huge thumbs up from me. Both Properties were amazing at following safety protocols, the rooms were very clean and the Staff was helpful, courteous and friendly.

TIP: Part of the reason I wanted to have a travel blog was to not only share fun and exciting places with my viewers but also show my Fans that you can travel and have fun on a budget! When booking a hotel room make sure you check numerous sites for the best deal. Travel Zoo, Travel Pirates, Booking.com, Hotel tonight, Trip advisor, and my newest favorite is Snap travel. I use so many search engines to find the best deals!

I have an older travel blog post that explains good ways to save money! You should check it out!

Restaurants:

We opted to eat most of our meals off of the Strip for numerous reasons: First we love local cuisine and small independent food places. We enjoy supporting local and I think that at a time like this, the small businesses really need our support! You will also find more affordable options off of the strip. Like I have mentioned throughout this post, I was really trying to find ways to limit my exposure to crowds so this was a good choice!

Sightseeing

I recommend to drive the Strip and see what interests you and then go explore those spots on foot. Each Hotel is unique and offers something different. Since most entertainment is closed we opted to keep it simple this trip.

Walk the Strip and check out some of the stores: M&M Factory, Hershey Chocolate Store, Bellagio light show and their beautiful indoor garden and Pavilion are Fan favorites.

Enjoy a stroll along the Venetian and step foot inside the resort and you will find lots of shops, restaurants and even a Gondola ride.

Treasure Island offers a Pirate show but it currently is not in operation but you can still see the colorful lights at night.

Grab a Mile long margarita from one of the many vendors and bring home the plastic container for some Vegas memories!

Caesars Palace also has a nice indoor Pavilion Mall that you can stroll through.

Like I’ve mentioned, each Hotel has its own style and normally offers so much to their guests- bars, nightclubs, aquariums,lazy river, giant pools, light shows, Concerts, shows and live events, arcades, zipping, Ferris wheel and so much more. So make sure that you check with the resort to see what activities are open.

(FYI-the tram is currently closed)

You can make your time there Memorable-

My Husband and I enjoyed a stroll down the BLVD late in the evening ( the late hours are great for social distancing) and then went and grabbed a late night snack and sat in the courtyard near MGM Grand and enjoyed the evening outdoors.

We walked through Venetian’s Pavilion and checked out some of the stores and went “window shopping”. (This saved me some money!) And make sure you check out the Food Court which is also a HUGE Gourmet Market full of wines, breads,jams and so much more!

After we walked through the Market we then “People watched” as we enjoyed a pipping hot cup of Espresso and an Americano at illy Cafe. Later that evening, we even enjoyed some really good gourmet ice cream at Sloans www.sloansicecream.com while listening to music and laughter from people enjoying the Gondola ride.

We had a nice romantic evening walk around the Venetians exterior and listened to the sounds of water while all the City lights were glowing!

We had a cocktail at one of the restaurants at the Venetian and we had more then enough space to sit comfortably…

I did miss the Shows, the people in crazy extravagant outfits, the party goers laughing and stumbling, the nightlife, the clubs and all the things that Vegas is known for! But… I did know ahead of time that things … be different and that is one of the reasons I wanted to go.

TIP- Sloans ice Cream: buy a sundae and share it! A scoop is around $6 and the 3 scoop sundae was only $9

I have a separate post on these places that we visited with more info and pictures so make sure to check out that blog post here: https://www.chasingthesunshineblog.com/?p=2415

A few places off the strip that we visited and I felt were highlights of our trip–

Cereal Killerz Kitchen

This is a fun place to go with the kids or by yourself! Every cereal you could think of is at this fun dessert place! Old School, Unique and all time favorites. www.thecerealkillerz.com

Area 15

A fun, eclectic adventure dome! Artwork, activities and so much under one roof! www.area15.com

The Neon Museum

Old signs from Vegas past! This is so colorful and fun! www.neonmuseum.org

Snappy Burger

Retro fast food mixed with a drive in! Its a fun and inexpensive stop to check out on your trip. We drove through and grabbed a snack and then sat and watched a few short clip movies/shows: Munsters, Ren & Stimpy and they even had Cheech and Chong on the screen. www.snappyburgers.com

Food

If you are looking for a Nice dinner out, I highly recommend Lamaii on Spring Mountain in Vegas.

We really enjoyed our dinner. The food was fantastic, great service and the ambiance was amazing! Thai food is my favorite and this restaurant was a very classy Thai spot that I would highly recommend for a nice evening out. It is located a few minutes from the Strip.

For lunch we grabbed a bite to eat at Mas Por Favor. I found this place online and it was supposed to be a hot spot with craft tacos. It is also known to be an #instagram favorite!

My favorite thing about the place was the decor and they have a “secret room”!

There is a “speak easy” in the back and its pretty cool looking! Make sure to stop in here if you want some instagram moments! Great place to snap some pics!

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Ok, so you know those places that you drive by thinking… hmmm… should I eat here? Small hole in the wall places that are busy but they don’t look glamorous? Well, most of the time THOSE are the hidden gems! I came across one and it was worth sharing with you!

POPS Pride of Philly Cheese steak on Decatur. Let me tell ya…. We are picky and the cheese steak here was worth all those calories!

Another great spot that we hit on our way back home was about 20 minutes from the Vegas strip. We stopped in Boulder City, Nevada. Home of the Hoover Damn and Lake Mead. We’ve been to this area several times but never had such a fun adventure filled day like this one!

One of the highlights of the trip besides the amazing suite at the Venetian was our adventure at Rail Explorers.

We had so much fun! www.railexplorers.net

BOULDER CITY-

There are a few great food joints, restaurants and breweries in town. I recommend you YELP to see what best suits your palate. There is also a Monster Museum that I was SUPER excited to check out and I had planned to do a story on the place, but when I arrived I didn’t receive the best customer service so I decided to skip on the museum tour but I would recommend to check it, its looks pretty cool. Maybe you will get the Staff on a good day!

and in the end…..The Show must go on!

So see there are fun things to still do in the area and things that are safe and affordable. For more details and photos make sure to click here and check out the other blog post stories on details of my 3 day itinerary, as well as details about our exciting adventure on the rail cars. https://www.chasingthesunshineblog.com/?p=2480

Safe travels and lots of love and light from this Adventurous Autoimmune Warrior!

Stay Safe!

xo Christy