Top 10 Tourist Traps in Las Vegas to Avoid in 2025 — Insider Tips from Locals

Discover how to dodge overpriced drinks, hidden fees, and flashy distractions on the Strip — travel smarter with our ultimate guide to Vegas tourist traps.

The first time I visited Las Vegas was back in 2012. I thought I had it all figured out.

Our itinerary was set, the hotel in downtown booked months ahead, and a list of “can’t-miss” spots carefully gathered from blogs and YouTube. But within 24 hours, we realized something nobody warned us about: Vegas is packed with tourist traps.

Not the dangerous kind — just the ones that drain your wallet and waste your time.

And that was in 2012, when Vegas was still known as a cheap entertainment capital. Now, in 2025, one distracted moment can cost you $100 less in your pocket.

Coming from Italy, I knew almost nothing about American culture except what I’d seen in movies and TV shows. And despite the usual Hollywood exaggerations — with meteors and alien invasions always targeting the U.S. — many everyday details turned out surprisingly accurate.

Since that first trip, I’ve visited Vegas every single year — with friends, family, and now living here full-time with my wife Anna for the last six years.

We’ve seen it all and witnessed firsthand how tourism on the Strip has exploded, along with the inevitable rise of tourist traps.

We’ve paid hundreds for watered-down cocktails at rooftop bars that looked nothing like the photos. Fallen for “free show ticket” timeshare pitches that ate up entire afternoons. Been scammed by pre-sold events canceled last minute with no refund. And gambled on roulette tables with terrible odds, unaware that better games were just a block away.

Over the years, we’ve learned which parts of the city truly deserve the hype—and which are just shiny distractions.

We’ve helped countless travelers from around the world plan smarter trips. We’ve walked the Strip more times than we can count, always checking what’s new, what’s overrated, and what’s actually worth your time.

So whether this is your first or fifth trip to Las Vegas, these insights will help you become a smart traveler—not just another average tourist.

Here are the top 10 tourist traps to avoid in 2025—and smarter alternatives we personally recommend.

We wrote this to help you travel better, save money, and actually enjoy the side of Vegas most tourists miss, because we love this city, and it hurts to see it misunderstood—especially when a little planning can save your trip from avoidable pitfalls.

1. The “Mandatory” Tip Trap

1. The “Mandatory” Tip Trap

The Trick That Makes You the “Bad Guy”—Even If You’re Not

This is one of the sneakiest tourist traps in Las Vegas — because it doesn’t look like a scam. It hides behind social norms and phrases like “it’s just good manners,” when in reality, it’s often a pressure tactic wrapped in politeness.

Coming from Europe, tipping wasn’t part of my culture. I had no idea how much to leave, or when. At first, I either tipped way too much or felt weird tipping at all.

Now, after living and working in tourism here in the U.S. for years, I totally get how important tipping is for service workers — especially in a city like Vegas, where many live off their tips.

That’s why, when someone offers great service, I give them everything they deserve. No question.

But here's where the trap kicks in: There are plenty of situations where tipping isn’t required at all — like at fast food places, coffee shops, or when picking up takeout — yet the POS screen flashes preset tips of 20%, 25%, or even 30%, making you feel guilty for clicking “No Tip.”

And let’s be honest: some workers will literally watch you tap that screen. I’ve had waiters and drivers lean in and stare as I paid, just to see how much I’d leave. And we’ve seen them do the exact same thing with thousands of other customers.

Sometimes, if you don’t tip, even when the service was average or just okay, you’re made to feel like the bad guy.

And in some cases, the tip is already included in your bill, especially at fancier restaurants or for groups — but no one tells you. You end up tipping twice unless you check your receipt carefully.

What to do: Tip generously when service is good — 15–20% is the norm for sit-down restaurants, bartenders, and tour guides.

But don’t tip out of guilt or pressure when it’s not deserved. Always read the bill, especially at touristy places, and don’t be afraid to say no if the service didn’t earn it.

And I’ll be honest with you — even after all these years, I still struggle with tipping emotionally.

I’m the kind of person who would skip a meal just to avoid disappointing someone. So I get how awkward and confusing this can feel for travelers.

But knowing where tipping is expected (and where it’s just emotional blackmail) will save you money — and a ton of mental energy.

2. Overpriced Bottled Water

When Staying Hydrated Costs More Than a Show Ticket

Vegas summers are no joke. Temperatures easily soar above 110°F (or 43°C), and the dry desert air can drain you faster than a blackjack table.

What most tourists don’t realize until it’s too late is just how quickly dehydration kicks in—especially if you're walking miles along the Strip or sipping cocktails under the Nevada sun.

So here’s the trap: a single small bottle of water can cost you $7, $12, or even $18 on the Strip.

No, I'm not talking fancy mineral water flown in from Iceland. I'm talking basic plastic bottles, the kind you’d pay 50 cents for back home. And yes, we’ve seen it with our own eyes—multiple times.

The reason? Casinos and convenience stores know you're desperate, and they’ve mastered the art of hiding free water options or making them inconvenient. It’s by design: the harder it is to stay hydrated for free, the more likely you’ll fork over cash—again and again.

I’ve done the math after years of living here and showing friends around: you could easily blow $50–$60 a day per person just on water. That’s the cost of a good-quality Vegas show ticket.

Or dinner for two. Or, you know… actual fun.

And here’s the kicker: around 64% of bottled water sold in the U.S. is just filtered tap water. So, unless you’re collecting them for the labels, you’re paying luxury prices for something you already have in your hotel room sink.

💡 Smart Traveler Tip: BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle)

Be the smart one. Bring a refillable bottle like THIS ONE and fill it up at hydration stations inside major hotels, gyms, or even near restrooms. Many properties now have water refill spots, even if they’re hidden behind slot machines or near fitness centers.

If you don’t have one, order one on Amazon and have it delivered to your Vegas hotel (yes, they’re used to it!). Or grab a decent one at Walgreens or CVS on the Strip—yes, it’ll still be overpriced, but way cheaper in the long run.

Staying more than a couple of days? Go bulk. Order a 12-pack of water bottles online or grab a full case from a local store. Keep it in your room or bring a few bottles in your day bag.

Bonus Tip: Most hotels now allow personal bottles at the pool, as long as they’re not glass. That means you can sip in style without paying $9 for water next to a sun lounger.

3. High Resort Fees on the Strip

That $49 room you found in the heart of the Strip? It might end up costing you $90+ a night once you reach the checkout screen. Welcome to the world of “Resort Fees”—Las Vegas’ least charming surprise.

It’s one of the most frustrating tourist traps for first-timers who arrive thinking they scored a great deal, only to feel nickel-and-dimed the moment they check in.

And trust me, I get the feeling. After living here since 2019 and talking to dozens of international travelers every month, I’ve heard the same rant over and over: 'Nobody told me about this! It wasn’t written anywhere!'

Here’s the truth: Resort fees in Las Vegas often cover things you’ll never use—like the fitness center you’ll never see, local phone calls you’ll never make, or pool access during a sandstorm in January.

Worst part? You still have to pay them even if you decline those amenities.

And they’re not cheap: most Strip hotels charge between $35 and $55 per night, plus tax, so over three nights that “cheap” stay just turned into a minor mortgage payment.

The good news? Some hotels in 2025 are finally catching on that travelers aren’t amused. Places like Virgin Hotels Las Vegas or Four Queens Downtown proudly advertise “No Resort Fees” as a selling point.

Others, especially off-Strip resorts like Red Rock, Durango, or even some local boutique hotels, waive them completely—and you often get free parking too.

💡 Smart Tip: When booking online, use platforms like Booking.com, which we’ve personally used for over 15 years. Unlike many competitors, Booking shows the full price—including resort fees—before checkout, so you don’t get ambushed. You can also use the filter “No Resort Fees” to quickly spot the honest players.

👉  Bonus: Staying off the Strip doesn’t mean missing out. You’ll avoid crowds, traffic, and overpriced snacks, while still being just a 10–15 minute Uber ride from the action.

4. Casino ATMs

The Most Expensive Slot Machines in Vegas

Here’s one of the most painful (yet invisible) tourist traps in Las Vegas: casino ATMs.

You might think you’re just grabbing a bit of cash for the day, but the reality is... you’re playing a game you’re guaranteed to lose.

Most ATM machines inside Las Vegas casinos charge between $9 and $14 per transaction—yes, just to access your own money.

And if you’re traveling internationally? Add a currency conversion fee, plus a foreign card fee from your home bank. You could be paying $20 or more just to pull out a hundred-dollar bill. Not exactly jackpot vibes.

And don’t think you’ll get away with going cashless. While many places accept cards, Las Vegas still runs on cash in subtle but essential ways. Bartenders, valet drivers, bellhops, and especially street performers or food stalls usually expect cash tips. Some even refuse cards altogether.

So what’s the smarter play?

💡 Smart Traveler Tip: Withdraw Once, Wisely

• Withdraw a solid amount all at once, ideally outside of a casino, from a reputable bank ATM or drugstore like Walgreens or CVS. These typically charge much lower fees—or none at all, depending on your card.

• Use a Wise debit card (formerly TransferWise) if you’re visiting from abroad. Wise gives you mid-market exchange rates—the real rate—without hidden fees. You can preload your card in your home currency and spend in USD like a local.

• Many gas stations and supermarket ATMs also offer better rates than those inside the big resorts. It’s worth the small detour.

• If your hotel has an ATM in the lobby but not inside the casino floor, check if the fees are lower—some are more reasonable.

I get it—convenience is tempting, especially when you’re in a rush between shows, busy talking with friends, or heading out for a night on the Strip. But if you’re paying $14 for the privilege of accessing your own money, that’s not convenience. That’s a trap.

5. Street Performers (Especially Showgirls)

When a “Quick Photo” Turns into a $40 Bill

Las Vegas is full of surprises—but some are less fun than others. One of the most common tourist traps we still see every day, even in 2025, is the misunderstanding around street performers, especially costumed characters and showgirls on the Strip.

Just stating the not-so-obvious now: those Bumblebee mascots and feathered showgirls aren’t out there just for fun. They’re working. And they’re hot—literally. In the middle of the Mojave Desert, under the brutal sun, wearing layers of feathers, latex, or fur, they’re not taking “quick selfies” for the sake of Instagram fame. They’re doing it for tips.

And here’s where things go sideways: you walk up thinking it’s just a fun, spontaneous photo opp. They pose with you, smile, maybe even strike a few silly poses. Then comes the ask: $20, $30, sometimes even $40—for one photo. Per person. 

If you hesitate or say you didn’t know, things can escalate quickly. We've seen it happen over and over, and it's not the kind of Vegas memory you want.

Many visitors don’t realize that these performers are not regulated—they’re considered independent contractors, and there’s no legal limit on what they can charge.

💡 And yes, showgirls in skimpy costumes or fake "police officers" tend to approach groups of men or solo travelers. If you're visiting Vegas with your kids, it can turn uncomfortable real fast—both for you and your wallet.

💡 Smart Traveler Tip: Be Polite, But Be Clear

We always tell our Getawaykers™: if you’re not prepared to tip, don’t approach. These people are just trying to make a living—some are hustling through tough times or rebuilding after setbacks, and we personally know performers who use this work to keep their families afloat.

If you appreciate the energy and want the photo, go for it—but set your boundaries upfront: ask how much it’ll cost before snapping the shot. And always have small cash bills handy to avoid awkward exchanges.

Looking for Something More Authentic?

Head over to Fremont Street—especially after sunset. Yeah, it’s true, there are plenty of street performers (though many are actually licensed), but you’ll also find live bands, neon lights, and even aerial zip lines—all free to watch.

And if you book a walking tour through platforms like GetYourGuide (link below), you can experience the best of what Vegas has to offer in small groups—without falling into those classic street-level traps.

6. Celebrity Restaurants

Big Names, Bigger Disappointments?

Celebrity chef restaurants are everywhere in Vegas, from Gordon Ramsay’s empire to Giada’s rooftop dining. And sure, they make for a flashy Instagram story or a fun “I’ve been there!” moment.

But behind the famous name, the reality doesn’t always live up to the hype.

We’ve tested dozens of them—some repeatedly—and more often than not, you’re paying a premium for the branding, not the flavor. Think $40 for a plate of average pasta or $22 for a side of mashed potatoes (yes, that’s a real example from a Strip restaurant in 2025).

While spots like Hell’s Kitchen can offer a good photo op and a Vegas “bucket list” feel, they also come with:

• Mandatory reservations months in advance during peak season

• Upcharges for things like Strip views or "signature" dishes

• Inconsistent food quality depending on when you go

So what’s the move if you still want an upscale experience without feeling scammed?

💡 Smart Traveler Tip: Eat Like a Local (or Ask the Concierge)

If you’re staying on the Strip, take a 10-minute Uber to Vegas’ Chinatown, where chef-owned spots serve incredible food at non-Strip prices. This is where the locals eat—especially those who work in the hospitality industry.

Some of our top picks on the Strip?

• Estiatorio Milos (fresh Mediterranean seafood, excellent lunch deals)

• Bazaar Meat by José Andrés (an experience as much as a meal)

• Caramá inside Mandalay Bay (modern Italian done right)

These are places where the food is the star, not the name on the menu.

You can also book your table while reserving your show on trusted platforms like Vegas.com (banner below), which we locals use too—and they often offer dinner + show packages:

Want to know which celebrity restaurants are actually worth it?

We've reviewed them one by one in our digital guide to Las Vegas, now available in Italian, Spanish, and French—soon in English too!

Pre-order your copy HERE and avoid spending $200 on a meal you'll forget by the next slot machine.

7. Designer Cocktails with No Kick

When Your $26 Drink Tastes Like Juice

Let’s talk cocktails. Because if you’re in Vegas and not holding some fancy glass with smoke, glitter, or a glow cube, are you even on vacation?

But here’s the trap: some of those $25+ signature drinks look stunning on Instagram… and then hit your bloodstream like sparkling Capri Sun. It’s not your imagination—many bars on the Strip now use pre-mixed cocktail bases, which are full of sugar, artificial coloring, and just enough alcohol to legally call it a cocktail.

The goal? Serve fast. Impress visually. Charge a premium. And hope you don’t notice that after two drinks, you’re still stone-cold sober (but slightly sticky).

Depending on your taste buds and expectations, you might think, “Eh, it’s not bad.” But for seasoned travelers or anyone used to a proper cocktail, it’s like paying for a Monet and getting a coloring book.

Smart Tip: Skip the Hype, Sip the Craft

If you actually want flavor, balance, and a buzz that doesn’t come from the sugar rush, seek out real mixology bars off the Strip or a few hidden gems within it.

✔️ Try these instead:

• Herbs & Rye – Legendary with locals. Classic cocktails, real pours.

• Velveteen Rabbit – Artsy, local, and refreshingly unpretentious.

• The Laundry Room – A speakeasy hidden behind Commonwealth downtown. You’ll need a reservation, but it’s worth the effort.

💡 Bonus Smart Move: Happy Hours = half price, double value. Hit BrewDog for Strip views and solid drinks, Beer Park for chill rooftop vibes, or find rooftop bars listed in our updated guide.

You’ll pay half the price and actually taste the liquor.

8. Hotel Souvenir Shops

The $35 Keychain That Cost Them 50 Cents

We’ve all fallen for it at least once. You’re walking through your hotel lobby after a long day, and there it is—bright lights, glittery “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” mugs, and those irresistibly kitschy t-shirts that scream “I went to Vegas and all I got was this overpriced souvenir.”

But here’s the reality: most hotel gift shops mark up their prices by 200–300%. That cute $9.99 keychain? You’ll find it for $2.99 just five minutes down the road.

Same brand. Same packaging. Same manufacturer (not the US).

Just not inside a Bellagio or Caesars Palace.

We’re not saying don’t buy souvenirs. Heck, even we have a soft spot for the occasional fridge magnet or retro poker chip. But we’re saying: be smart about where you shop.

💡 Smart Traveler Tip: Skip the Hotel Lobby—Go Where Smart Tourists Go

If you’re looking for that one-stop, over-the-top souvenir emporium, head to the Bonanza Gift Shop. Located on the north end of the Strip, it’s been dubbed the “World’s Largest Gift Shop”—and it lives up to the name. Think everything from vintage-style Vegas shirts to quirky socks, decks of cards, and even not-so-ugly mugs. Oh, and that Zoltar machine!

Better yet, you’ll often pay a fraction of the price for the exact same items found at hotel shops. We’re talking t-shirts 3 for $15.99 instead of $25 a piece, and magnets under $2.

👉 Want even more control over what you buy (and what you spend)?

Shop Vegas-themed gifts on Amazon before or during your trip. Things like luggage tags, passport covers, travel organizers, or even funny Vegas tees can be delivered directly to your hotel. Especially useful if you’re coming for a bachelor party, wedding, or surprise gift.

🎁 Looking for Something More Authentic?

If you plan to venture off the Strip—say, on a day trip to Grand Canyon West Rim—you’ll find handmade jewelry and crafts created by members of the Hualapai Tribe.

These aren’t mass-produced trinkets: they’re locally made items that support Indigenous communities and tell a real story. A great souvenir and a way to give back.

You can book one of our favorite tours to the West Rim HERE.

9. Nightclubs with Long Lines & High Fees

The Price of Looking Cool in Vegas

You show up dressed to impress, ready for that legendary Vegas nightlife. But then it hits you: $70 cover charge, a 90-minute line, and when you finally make it in—$22 for a vodka soda that tastes like regret.

Want to actually sit down? That’ll be a $2,000 table minimum, bottle service required, and no, you can’t keep the table.

Welcome to the club scene on the Strip.

Sure, some clubs are iconic. But for most first-time visitors, the reality doesn’t always match the hype. You’ll find yourself paying premium prices for overcrowded spaces, blaring music, long bathroom lines, and bartenders who may or may not notice you.

Here’s the kicker: the average visitor drops over $200–250 in a single nightclub outing, once you factor in entry fees, 2-3 drinks, tips, surge-priced rideshare, and maybe even a new outfit to match the dress code.

And unless you're in a group of influencers or high rollers, chances are you’ll spend more time standing in line than on the dance floor.

Smart Traveler Tip: You Don’t Need a Club to Feel VIP

If you’re chasing the vibe, you can absolutely get the energy, the views, and the music—without the chaos or financial hangover. Here are our favorite smarter options for 2025:

• Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay: Very small but with rooftop terrace, cool views of the Strip, occasional DJs, and no pressure to buy bottles.

• Legacy Club (Circa Downtown): Rooftop magic with curated cocktails, space to breathe, and no velvet rope ego trips. Dress smart-casual and you’re golden.

Want to do it even smarter?

➡️ Check out Vegas.com for discounted nightclub passes and skip-the-line options. They often run last-minute deals for shows and nightlife events.

➡️ Try HouseSeats – an insider favorite among locals and expats like us. For a flat annual or monthly fee, you get access to comped tickets (yes, $0) for shows, lounges, and sometimes even nightlife events. Foundation Room is often available. It’s ideal if you're in Vegas for more than a few days and want to squeeze in more entertainment without squeezing your wallet.

10. 000 Roulette and 6:5 Blackjack

The Silent Wallet Killers

Let’s get one thing straight: more zeros = worse odds for you.

But unless you’re already a seasoned gambler, you probably won’t notice it... until your chips disappear faster than your willpower at a dessert buffet.

Most tourists don’t realize that many Vegas casinos—especially the glitzy ones on the Strip—have quietly shifted to “triple-zero” roulette and “6:5” blackjack payouts.

On paper, it doesn’t look like much. In reality, it’s a massive advantage for the house, and a slow, sneaky drain on your money.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Triple-zero roulette adds a third green pocket (“000”), which raises the house edge to 7.69%. That’s almost double the standard 5.26% you get with classic double-zero roulette.

• 6:5 blackjack means that instead of getting $15 for a $10 blackjack win (like the traditional 3:2 payout), you only get $12. It doesn’t sound like a big deal—until you multiply it over dozens of hands.

And guess where casinos put these games? Right up front. Flashy. Bright lights. Easy access. Because they know first-timers don’t look at odds—they look at vibes.

They know you’re more likely to sit down at a colorful table than walk two minutes farther for better rules.

Smart Traveler Tip: Don't Play Where the Odds Are Stacked Against You

If you really want to gamble, do it like a local—or at least like someone who’s done their homework.

✅ Head to Downtown Las Vegas, where many casinos still offer 3:2 blackjack and classic double-zero roulette. The vibe is more old-school, the tables are more player-friendly, and the drinks are cheaper.

✅ Try smaller off-Strip properties like Ellis Island, OYO, or the Orleans, where the rules tend to be more favorable and minimum bets are lower.

Or better yet… skip the tables altogether and invest that money into an unforgettable Vegas experience. Instead of losing $100 in 10 minutes at a 6:5 blackjack table, why not:

• See Absinthe, a jaw-dropping adult circus-meets-comedy show at Caesars Palace.

• Book Awakening, a visual masterpiece at Wynn that’s raising the bar for storytelling on stage.

• Grab discounted Cirque du Soleil tickets on Vegas.com, often available in promo bundles (dinner + show or 2-for-1 deals).

You came to Vegas for thrills, not slow-motion wallet pain. Spend your time and money where the payoff is real, and your memories last longer than your chips.

When we created Getawayk™, our only goal was simple: help the next Sergio and Anna visiting Las Vegas avoid the same mistakes we made—and give them a way to travel smarter and live deeper.

If you’re not trying to be just another clueless tourist (we’ve all been there), but a smart traveler who actually gets it, you’ve got three options:

1.      Subscribe to our newsletter below so you don’t miss any of our smart local tips and real Vegas hacks.

2.      Grab all our up-to-date, vacation-saving advice packed into 260 pages of pure love with our “Scopri Las Vegas” guide—available in Spanish, Italian, and French (and now up for pre-order in English!) via the banner below.

3.      Do both! Honestly, that’s the smartest move.

And hey—don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for even more real tips and no-BS travel inspo!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the most common tourist traps to avoid in Las Vegas in 2025?

Some of the biggest tourist traps in Vegas include mandatory tipping expectations, overpriced bottled water, high resort fees, expensive casino ATM withdrawals, and street performers charging for photos. Avoiding these can save you money and frustration during your trip.

2. Why are resort fees on the Strip considered a tourist trap?

Resort fees are mandatory charges added on top of your hotel room rate, often not clearly disclosed upfront. They can add $30 or more per night, covering services you may not even use. Knowing about them helps you budget better and choose hotels wisely.

3. How can I avoid losing money on casino ATMs and bad roulette tables?

Casino ATMs often have high withdrawal fees, and some roulette tables offer poor odds like triple-zero wheels. Instead, use bank ATMs outside casinos and look for classic double-zero roulette tables with better chances to win.

4. Are celebrity restaurants worth it, or are they tourist traps?

Many celebrity-owned restaurants charge premium prices for average food and crowded atmospheres. While some offer great experiences, it’s smart to research reviews and try lesser-known local spots to get better value and taste.

5. What’s the deal with nightclubs and showgirls on the Strip?

Nightclubs often have long lines and high cover charges, which can feel like a money trap if you’re not prepared. Similarly, street performers and showgirls may ask for tips or fees after taking photos. It’s best to set expectations and plan accordingly.