Author: Plaza Hotel

Top Steakhouses in Downtown Las Vegas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
There’s just something romantic about a quality meal enjoyed in a refined setting. Luckily for you and your sweetheart, Las Vegas has some of the finest steakhouses found anywhere — especially in the dazzling downtown area. Consider these great steakhouses in Downtown Las Vegas when making your dinner reservations.

Oscar’s

You don’t have to travel far from the comfort of your Plaza hotel room for an extraordinary meal and impeccable service. Head to Oscar’s, a steakhouse opened by Vegas icon and former Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. Start your Oscar’s experience with an appetizer like Steak Tartare A’La Meyer or Sal’s Shrimp Cocktail — paired with a selection from the extensive wine list. For entrees, there’s something on the dinner menu to please every palate, with items such as Joey C’s Filet Mignon and Citrus Crusted Halibut. Dining at Oscar’s steakhouse is an unparalleled culinary experience, which you’ll want to top off with a delectable dessert like tiramisu or crème brulee.

Hugo’s Cellar

Every lady who visits this romantic restaurant is presented with a rose, and that’s not all. When you visit Hugo’s Cellar, prepare for special touches like sorbet between courses and chocolate-covered strawberries brought to your table. Appetizers here include jumbo shrimp cocktail, seafood on ice for two, and escargot en croute. When it comes to steaks, you’ll find charbroiled Black Angus cuts including rib-eye, prime rib, and New York strip. Sweet indulgences that complete your meal include cherries jubilee and bananas foster for two.

Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse

Surf and turf is just one possibility when you choose to dine at Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse on Fremont Street. Start your meal with an appetizer of fresh raw oysters on the half-shell, or try the artisan cheese plate. Seared foie gras and maple glazed quail are two other options to consider. When it comes to entrees, you can’t beat a juicy steak like the filet mignon or prime rib-eye. For a light bite, this restaurant also has an array of gourmet salads from which to choose.

Chart House

This charming steakhouse at the Golden Nugget offers delicious American fare and elegant décor. Start things off with a charcuterie and cheese platter, featuring a tempting selection of cured meats and gourmet cheeses. When it comes to steak, filet mignon, and prime rib are just two available options. If you’ve got room for dessert, try the Chart House Soufflé, which is made with Grand Marnier and comes with chocolate, raspberry, or cream Anglaise. No matter where you choose to dine in Downtown Vegas, you’ll find no shortage of fantastic steaks, seafood, desserts, and beverages. After dinner, enjoy a show at the Plaza or head to the Plaza casino floor for fun and excitement. Of course, if you’re too stuffed for revelry, head back to your Plaza hotel room to relax in comfort and style.

Best Romantic Activities in Downtown Las Vegas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Las Vegas is one of the most romantic cities in the world — not just on Valentine’s Day, but all year long! If you’re going to be in Vegas with your sweetheart and want an unforgettable experience filled with romance, look no further than the downtown area. Check out these ideas for couple-friendly activities that are sure to fill your heart with love.

Dinner at Oscar’s

A delicious meal in an elegant setting is always an excellent choice when it comes to turning up the romance. Look no further than Oscar’s at the Plaza when you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner. This iconic restaurant serves up mouthwatering steaks grilled to order and tempting sides made lovingly from scratch. Whether you’re in the mood for steak, seafood, or both, Oscar’s extensive menu is sure to satisfy. Before the main course, linger over an appetizer like bruschetta or a fresh shellfish platter. A photo posted by Oscar’s Beef, Booze, & Broads (@oscarssteakhouselv) on If you’re in the mood for a few drinks, hit the restaurant’s adjacent cocktail lounge for a tempting array of libations. Love is sweet — and so are the desserts at Oscar’s! Tiramisu, chocolate mousse, and New York style cheesecake are just a few of the available dessert options.

Stroll through the Neon Graveyard

Dating back to 1996, the Neon Graveyard — also known as the Neon Museum — is a collection of 150 retired neon signs. The one-hour tour through this museum is a perfect way to bond with that special someone while marveling at some of Las Vegas’ iconic neon.

Get Cozy with Cocktails

If you and your sweetheart are in the mood for a low-key date that’s intimate and cozy, cuddle up with cocktails at the Plaza. In addition to the cocktail lounge at Oscar’s, the Plaza also has other cocktail hotspots including the Omaha Bar and the Beer Garden. If you and your special someone are looking for something a little different, head over to the Downtown Cocktail Room. This local favorite features a wonderfully intimate space and delicious handcrafted cocktails with exotic and unexpected ingredients.

Take a Gamble

There’s nothing like the excitement of the Plaza’s casino games, which can certainly bring you and your sweetie closer together and give you both an evening to remember. With slot machines, card games, roulette, and more, the Plaza casino floor has everything you need to treat your date to hours of gaming fun.

See a Show

Catch The Scintas, where you can enjoy a prix fixe meal along with your show for only $99. Also, the Omaha Lounge features a regularly changing array of incredible performers every night. Glamorous Downtown Las Vegas is always a winning choice when it comes to romantic activities to enjoy. And, you don’t even have to leave your hotel! When you choose the Plaza for your Downtown Las Vegas accommodations, you’re right where you need to be for incredible dining, exciting gaming, and dazzling entertainment both you and your loved one are sure to enjoy!

2 Exciting New Exhibits Opening at The Plaza

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Last year, the Plaza opened a special gallery full of some of the most iconic sports memorabilia. The Las Vegas Club Gallery at the Plaza was filled with hundreds of sports-related items available for purchase by the public. The exhibit was a huge success, with many of the items quickly bought by eager sports enthusiasts and collectors. In response to the overwhelming success of the Plaza’s sports memorabilia exhibit, the Plaza is doing it again. This time, with two exciting new exhibits that pay homage to the hotel’s old Vegas roots. These exhibits are an excellent way to showcase the history of not only Downtown Las Vegas, but also the unique role the Plaza Hotel & Casino has played in shaping the area into what it is today. Whether you are a local or visitor, the Plaza’s new displays are sure to give you a distinct perspective on the rich and interesting history and culture of Downtown Las Vegas.

Jerry Misko

In a style true to the artistic and creative vibe that flows through downtown, the Plaza’s first new exhibit will be one from famed local artist, Jerry Misko. The exhibit, which opened on Jan. 15, features a collection of Misko’s edition prints accompanied by one-of-a-kind paintings of classic Vegas neon signs. Misko, a Las Vegas native, has collaborated on projects with some of the most recognizable names in the city, including the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Neon Museum, First Friday, and even the city of Las Vegas. These collaborations, combined with 12 years of experience as a practicing artist in Las Vegas have given Misko’s art a distinctly Vegas personality perfect for the Las Vegas Club Gallery. Those looking to take a piece of Vegas nostalgia home with them will be able to purchase Misko’s retro-meets-modern interpretations at the exhibit.

Union Plaza Then and Now

The second exhibit, which opens Feb. 4, is an exciting look at the evolution of the Plaza throughout the past five decades. The free exhibit, “Union Plaza Then and Now,” offers guests a rare look into the history of the Plaza through artifacts, photos, and videos. The exhibit is one of many from the Museum of Gaming History, a non-profit educational project of The Casino Chip & Gaming Token Collectors Club, Inc. that aims to preserve gaming history. Since it opened in 1971, the Plaza has cemented itself as a cultural icon, not only in Vegas but throughout the world. The exhibit aims to explore this rich and iconic history by showcasing the evolution of the Plaza. “Union Plaza Then and Now” will feature over 150 artifacts including chips, dice, ashtrays, postcards and even a unique lightbox display of a rare shot glass collection. Museum-of-gaming-history-plaza-hotel Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the history of the Plaza through a series of photographs that chronicles the progress made by the hotel from its groundbreaking to present day. For an even broader perspective of the transformation of both the Plaza and Downtown Las Vegas, guests will be treated to a 30-minute video about the hotel’s place in the historical development of downtown. A special grand opening of both exhibits will be held on Thursday, Feb. 4 at 11 a.m. The museum will be open to the public from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Whether you are a seasoned Las Vegas native with a broad understanding of the history of the city, or someone looking for a fun and unique activity downtown, you are sure to love the one-of-a-kind insights garnered from both exhibits.

6 Great Coffee Shops in Downtown Las Vegas

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Downtown Las Vegas has it all — glitzy casinos, incredible shopping and dining, and an array of excellent coffee shops. Fuel up for your Vegas adventure with a cup of java at one of these downtown hotspots:

Coffee Bar

Located inside the Plaza Hotel is Coffee Bar — a warm and welcoming cafe famous for its amazing gelato and a tempting array of coffee drinks. Enjoy a Latte, Chai Tea, or Americano coffee. Also, on the menu is Cappuccino, Cafe Moka, and much more. In the mood for an intense jolt? Coffe Bar also sells single and double Italian-style espresso shots with soy milk and flavor shot additions available.

The Beat

The Beat is a coffee house that also serves as a restaurant, vinyl record shop, and performing arts venue. Despite the fact that beer and wine are also served here, this establishment is open to all ages — all the time. Choose from coffee choices like traditional drip-style, lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and more. If you’re hungry, The Beat also serves breakfast, soup, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers.

Makers & Finders

This urban coffee bar is a local favorite for its uplifting atmosphere, Latin cuisine, and last but not least — its coffee. Select your favorite brew from five single origin bean choices, then customize your coffee with tempting house-made flavor syrups. Coffee is brewed seven different ways at Makers & Finders — no matter how you like your java prepared, this unique establishment is sure to please.
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PublicUs

Vegas locals and visitors alike love PublicUs for its friendly staff, breakfast dishes, and an array of coffee drinks. Whether you take your brew hot or iced, black or sweetened, you’ll find an ideal beverage. Consider the Shaken Almond Latte, which is available hot or iced. This cafe has a variety of flavor syrups so you can customize your coffee to suit your tastes.

Bronze Cafe

You’ll find the charming Bronze Cafe tucked into the LGBTQ Community Center. On the menu is an array of vegan dishes, however, there are also items featuring bacon jam — a customer favorite. When it comes to coffee, both hot and iced brews are made to suit any taste. Pair your coffee with something sweet, like a Fruity Pebbles Treat — made with vegan marshmallows — or Blueberry Coffee Cake.
A photo posted by Bronze Cafe (@bronzecafe) on

Hash House A Go Go

Last but not least on our list of great places to get coffee in Vegas is Hash House A Go Go, a Plaza restaurant that specializes in breakfast dishes but also serves lunch and dinner. While you here, be sure to indulge in the famous S’mores Mocha or one of Hash House’s unique latte offerings including the Banana Latte or Frosted Mint Latte.

The Best Pizza Joints in Downtown Las Vegas

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Although Las Vegas is full of incredible restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable, sometimes only pizza will do. When you’re in the mood for a slice or two, look no further than Downtown Las Vegas for an array of delicious pizza joints. Here are our favorites.

Pop Up Pizza

Enjoy some of the city’s best pizza without ever leaving your hotel. The Plaza is home to Pop Up Pizza, an establishment with a cozy, welcoming ambiance and an array of tempting menu items.

A photo posted by Pop Up Pizza (@popuppizzalv) on

For a taste of the traditional, try the 18b — a classic pizza made with whole-milk mozzarella. Or, opt for the 5th Street — a pie that’s piled high with caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, and pepperoni. Pair your pizza with a side such as onion rings or mozzarella sticks.

Boston Pizza

For pizza, wings, and more, visit Boston Pizza. This establishment offers dine-in, carryout, and even delivery for your convenience. On the menu, you’ll find an array of pizza choices including the Boston Vegetarian and the Boston Meat Lover’s. If you want something other than pizza or wings, Boston Pizza has burgers, pasta, and even fish.

Pizza Rock

Another favorite pizza establishment in downtown Vegas is Pizza Rock, which features incredible pies crafted by award-winning chef Gemignani. Start off with an appetizer like White Wine Clams or Classic Meatballs, then satisfy your pizza craving with a New York-style, Chicago-style, or Sicilian-style pie. Also on the menu are strombolis, calzones, and more. For dessert, try Tony’s Tiramisu or the decadent Mud Pie.

Anthony’s New York Pizza & Deli

Head to Anthony’s New York Pizza & Deli for an authentic taste of the Big Apple right in downtown Vegas. This restaurant doesn’t only serve pizza; you’ll also find an assortment of breakfast dishes, pasta, strombolis, and calzones. Popular pies at this establishment include the Hawaiian Pizza, which comes with ham and pineapple, and the Double Decker Pizza, which features two layers of meaty toppings and melted cheese.

Other Dining Options at the Plaza

In addition to Pop Up Pizza, the Plaza offers other dining options to satisfy your cravings, including Oscar’s Steakhouse, the Beer Garden, and the Food Court to name just a few. Of course, most of the pizza restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas are happy to deliver, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your suite to enjoy a delicious slice.

Come Check Out What’s New at The Plaza

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Craps is one of the most timeless Vegas table games, evoking images of taking a big risk for an even bigger payout. Classic craps is likely to remain a Vegas staple for the long haul, but like much of the city, it too, has evolved. If you’re wondering how a stronghold like craps could get any better, imagine never losing on the comeout roll. Crapless craps, now at The Plaza Hotel in downtown Vegas, is perfect for seasoned craps aficionados and new-to-the-table players. Ready to learn how to play?

The Breakdown

Crapless craps, in its most basic form, is simply a rule variant to regular craps. The rule variant being that no player can lose a pass bet on the comeout roll. In regular craps, on the come out roll (or first roll of the dice during a betting round) pass bets win on a 7 or 11 and lose on a 2, 3 or 12. Don’t pass bets win on a 2, 3 or 12 and lose when a 7 or 11 is rolled. In crapless craps, if a player rolls any number other than a 7, it becomes the point, and you can’t lose on 2, 3, or 12. This fast-paced spin on the old Vegas classic is sure to provide all the thrills and payout of the original!

Crapless Craps at The Plaza

downtown vegas craps table The Plaza Hotel & Casino in Downtown Las Vegas is the perfect place for anyone looking to play this exciting variant of their favorite game. Crapless craps at the Plaza lets you bet on the 2, 3, 11, or 12 with big payouts every time your number rolls. There is no possibility of “crapping out” because you cannot lose on the comeout roll as every number is a point. In this easy to learn game, your bets will stay up until a 7 rolls, giving you plenty of opportunities to get paid. What’s better than getting paid every time your number rolls? Not much. If you’re ready to learn how to get started winning with crapless craps, head over to the Plaza. Every Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., you can get free lessons on both traditional craps and the quick-moving crapless craps. While you’re there learning or playing crapless craps, be sure to stop by the Plaza’s newly opened Party Pit.

Plaza Party Pit

The Plaza Party Pit is the perfect mix of some of the most uniquely Vegas entertainment options available. The innovating Party Pit is meant to immerse guests in an atmosphere that offers the best of both gaming and traditional Vegas partying. Not only will you get to play some of your favorite Vegas table games at plenty of different limits, but you also get to enjoy great music and even better company. Aside from the stunningly charming dealers and gaming, you’re sure to appreciate the one-of-a-kind view right down the heart of Fremont Street. The beautiful dealers, great music, and upbeat atmosphere are ideal for anyone looking for a less than traditional gaming experience. No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it at the Plaza. Exciting variations of your favorite games? Check. Tons of opportunities to win big? Check. Beautiful table dealers? Check. Great views and even better music? Check. So, what are you waiting for?

The Best Happy Hour Hotspots in Downtown Las Vegas

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Las Vegas is a city that has most everything you can imagine, including some great places to have a drink. Whether you’re a visitor to the city or a resident entertaining friends or family from out of town, you’ll find an array of happy hour hotspots within convenient walking distance of each other. Here are some of our favorites.

Velveteen Rabbit

The locally-loved Velveteen Rabbit bar has happy hour every day except during the monthly First Friday events. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., you’ll save $2 on specialty cocktails, $2 off beer, $4 off well drinks and $1 off any other menu items.

Commonwealth

Enjoy happy hour at this cocktail lounge — inspired by the pre-Prohibition era — from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Well cocktails and domestic beers are only $3; premium cocktails and craft beers are reduced to $5. Music and a rooftop patio make this bar a favorite of locals and visitors like.

Therapy

Therapy is a hip Vegas haunt with happy hour daily from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., as well as on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Menu items include draft beer, handmade sangria, and signature cocktails. Be sure to try the refreshing Deal Maker, a combination of Hana Gin, grapefruit, maraschino, and fresh lemon-lime soda.

Fizz

Champagne lovers, rejoice! From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (or 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.), Fizz offers the Bottomless Bubbles deal. You will get unlimited glasses of J. Roget Champagne during the two-hour period for only $36. Pair your bubbly with a delicious offering from the menu such as Caviar on the Rocks or Wagyu & Horseradish Panini Bites.

Oscar’s Steakhouse

Of course, you don’t even need to leave your hotel in Downtown Las Vegas to enjoy a fabulous happy hour. Just head to Oscar’s Steakhouse at the Plaza from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Sunday through Thursday for great deals on drinks and food. Not sure what to try first? Oscar’s is famous for its steaks, of course, but you also don’t want to miss the signature martinis. Taking advantage of great happy hours in Downtown Las Vegas is an excellent way to get more bang for your buck. No matter what kind of libations you are looking for, you are sure to find them at one of these great happy hours.

5 Great Dessert Spots in Downtown Las Vegas

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There’s always room for dessert, especially when you’re in Downtown Las Vegas. In addition to the fabulous entertainment and shopping destinations found here, downtown is also home to some of the best desserts in the city. These fabulous establishments are serving up crave-worthy treats sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Here are a few of our favorites.

ChillSpot by SasaSweets

When nothing but a frozen treat will do, head to Chillspot by SasaSweets. The ice cream served here is made right in front of you using liquid nitrogen for unparalleled freshness. For an indulgent experience, try a Belgian Chocolate or Madagascar Vanilla Sundae. Want something on the light side? The shop’s Sorbettos and Italian Ices are available in a variety of fruit flavors.

JinJu Chocolates

This Vegas chocolatier offers a decadent assortment of handmade treats ideal for taking back to your hotel to enjoy later or for giving as a gift. If you’re stopping in for a quick bite, try the AKOYA 4-piece bonbon collection. Or, indulge in the Fortunato No. 4 Chocolate Bar, crafted with 68 percent Grand Cru dark chocolate.

Cupkates by Kate

Although cupcakes are the main attraction at this Vegas bakery, Cupkates also offers delicious dipped apples and strawberries, cake pops, and cookies.
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Cupcake flavors change by the day, so if you’re craving a particular flavor, call ahead to see if it’s available. Popular cupcake varieties found here include PB & J, Snickerdoodle, and Lemoncello — just to name a few!

Luv-It Frozen Custard

For an authentic taste of Vegas, head to this quaint frozen custard shop that has been in business since 1973. In addition to creamy frozen custard served in cones and cups, this establishment offers a variety of creative sundaes. The Luv-It Special sports pecans and strawberries while the Banana Fudge Krumble features cookie crumbles, sliced banana, and hot fudge.

Dessert at the Plaza

Despite the presence of the fabulous dessert destinations mentioned above, you don’t even need to leave your downtown Las Vegas hotel to enjoy a sweet treat. For an authentic taste of down-home cooking, visit Hash House A Go Go at the Plaza. In addition to the breakfast and lunch fare, you’ll find Andy’s Famous Bread Pudding, topped with ice cream and served with a cup of coffee. At Oscar’s Steakhouse, be sure to try the authentic New York Cheesecake or the delectable crème brulee. No matter what kind of sweet treat you are looking for, you are sure to find it in Downtown Las Vegas.

Exploring Downtown Las Vegas’ Beer Garden

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Downtown Las Vegas is a hub of fun activities and a large variety of different cuisines sure to appeal to anyone. Although there are dining options including everything from a decadent steak dinner, to oversized favorites such as chicken and waffles, there is nothing quite like the Beer Garden at Plaza. This unique venue aims to recreate the traditional European beer gardens with its own unique twist. Those looking for a quick and delicious bite to eat and a frosty craft beer straight from the tap will love Beer Garden.

Food

 
 
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The food offerings at Beer Garden are German-inspired and are sure to please. The venue offers a variety of great snacks to pair will you beer including an extra giant size German pretzel that feeds 4 and crispy onion strings served with your choice of dipping sauce. The real draw here, however, are the signature wursts.
 

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A photo posted by BeerGarden (@beergardenlv) on
These artfully crafted wursts include options such as The Westerner, with smoked polish sausage, roasted jalapenos, crispy fried onions and a chipotle aioli and The Golden Slipper, with andouille sausage, crispy bacon, and cream cheese topped with a fried egg. You also have the option to create your own wurst and even order a slice of specialty pizza from neighboring Pop Up Pizza. This is the perfect food to satisfy after a long day of exploring Downtown Las Vegas.  

Beer

There are few things that go together better than an ice cold draft beer and a wurst. Beer Garden takes things to a new level by offering over 20 different craft beers to pair with your food. No matter what flavor profile you are looking for, Beer Garden is sure to have it.

 

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There are so many options including from American and European pale lager, cider, fruit beer, IPA, Irish stout and Belgian golden. The selection is wider than you will find anywhere else downtown.  They even offer interesting suggestions on which beer will pair best with certain menu offerings.  

Atmosphere

 
 
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Aside from the great food and wide variety of craft beers on tap, Beer Garden also boasts a uniquely fun atmosphere. If you are in the mood for a quick bite, the spacious indoor bar area is the perfect space to indulge. For those who are in the mood to hang out while enjoying the delicious food and drink offerings, Beer Garden also features a fully equipped outdoor area.

 

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Modeled to feel like a home backyard, this outdoor area features picnic table seating, artificial grass and plants along with table games and live entertainment. This urban oasis overlooking Fremont Street stays true to the beer garden experience with downtown’s only living wall. The wall is a 400 square foot garden with more than 900 different plants growing on it.

 

This makes Beer Garden the ultimate pub experience in Downtown Las Vegas. Make sure to stop by and try one of their amazing wursts and a frosty beer!

If afterwards you’re ready for some rest, take advantage of our affordable hotel room rates at Plaza and stay in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas.

Everything You Need to Know about Downtown Las Vegas’ Art District

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A photo posted by Las Vegas (@vegas) on

Downtown Las Vegas is one of the most culturally and historically rich areas in the entire city. One of the many reasons both tourists and locals alike love this area of the city is the Downtown Arts District. This eclectic area, officially known as 18b Arts District is well known as the hub of the art scene in Las Vegas. The area is full of art and working galleries, antique and other unique shops and restaurants and unique lounges. Only a short walk from Fremont Street, the 18b Arts District is the perfect place to go for a different side of Vegas.

History

The area originally gained its reputation as an art location when a family owned and operated business, Desert Art Supplies was established. Several more art based businesses and museums opened in the area throughout the years, including The Arts Factory, Enigma Garden Café and The Contemporary Arts Center. The area was officially created in 1998 and was named for the 18 block zone set aside for the district. Although the area is larger today, it was initially bounded by Hoover Avenue, Colorado Avenue, Las Vegas Boulevard, Commerce Street and 4th Street.

Goals

The initial goal of the area was to provide the otherwise dull area with a unique identity apart from what you would find on the Strip and Fremont Street. The ideal mission was to inspire creativity in everyone who visited and lived in the area. Today the area is managed by the 18b Las Vegas Arts District Neighborhood Association and strives to encourage art in general. They also make large efforts to enhance current and new businesses in the district by creating growth and promoting enhanced pedestrian traffic.

First Friday

Now well known as the premier art event in the city, First Friday was first established in October 2002 and was attended by around 300 people. First Friday is the largest arts and culture event in the city, held on the first Friday of every month and hosting up to 20,000 visitors. The uniquely fun event brings in a substantial amount of foot traffic, allowing visitors to mingle the galleries, shops, restaurants and food trucks in the area. This is great for many local and upcoming artists and other vendors to gain recognition and sell some of their original artwork.

Preview Thursday

Held the first Thursday of every month, Preview Thursday was established as a scaled down version of First Friday. The reasoning behind this, is to allow more serious art buyers with the chance to beat the large crowds and potentially buy anything they are interested in. Preview Thursday is a great, more upscale way to enjoy the offerings of the Art District.

Must Visit Places

If you find yourself in need of a great meal while exploring the Art District, stroll over to Casa Don Juan for the best authentic Mexican food you will find anywhere. This family owned restaurant offers all of your favorites including carnitas, tortas, tacos, fajitas and much more.

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For anyone in need of an afternoon pick me up, or smaller food offerings will love everything at Makers & Finders Coffee. This coffee house serves up one-of-a-kind hand brewed favorites such as lavender infused lattes and small tapa like dishes including arepas, empanadas and shrimp ceviche. Head over to the Velveteen Rabbit for unique handcrafted cocktails in an atmosphere that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Art District. One of the best places to visit if you find yourself in the Arts District is the Arts Factory. Started in 1997, it is a warehouse full of a wide variety of different kinds of art including contemporary and traditional. Also make sure to find some of the many different street art murals in the area for a unique look at some of the ever-changing community art pieces. Finally, be sure to take a stroll down the First Street Art Trail as a way experience a unique variety of public art.