How to Find the Locals' Casinos in Las Vegas

When you're in Las Vegas and have seen about all the sights you want to see and gambled at all the casinos on the Strip and Fremont Street, it might seem like you've run out of options. However, there are casinos frequented by the locals off the strip and a little bit of a drive away that offer some good odds.

Things You'll Need

• Casino map of Las Vegas
• Free magazines in hotel room
• "Casino Player" magazine

Instructions

1. Check with your casino host, the hotel desk or other people that work in the hotel you stay in. These people are locals and can't gamble where they work. If they're gamblers, they probably know where the best odds in Las Vegas are.

2. Get a casino map of Las Vegas and surrounding areas. Mark the casinos not on the Strip or Fremont Street. Get feedback from the people that you meet, preferably locals, on these casinos.

3. Compile a list of the casinos you want to visit. Get directions if the map isn't clear enough and you're renting a car, which is usually more economical than taking a taxi.

4. Head the car toward Boulder Highway. There are several casinos that are considered locals' casinos right on the highway.

5. Review the magazines found in most hotel rooms. These will have advertisements and maps. Also check the magazine "Casino Player," which shows the difference in the odds.

Tips & Warnings

• Check out the free transportation services to some of the locals' casinos, such as the Station Casinos or Sam's Town.

• Check the areas when going to locals' casinos. Some are in really poor and dangerous neighborhoods. Ask someone about the areas first.

• If you're taking a taxi, know ahead of time about how much the trip will cost by talking to the valet or concierge service. If the charge is out of line, check with dispatch about the cost from start to finish. If the driver refuses, take the cab number and driver name and number and report him. Most taxi drivers are reputable but some who charge double of what is correct are still around.