Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, is not just famous for its vibrant nightlife, opulent casinos, and grand performances. This dazzling city has also served as a backdrop for numerous memorable films, riveting TV shows, and captivating books. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast or a book lover, Las Vegas’ filming locations and literary settings offer an intriguing way to explore the city.
10 Famous Films Shot in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has been a superstar in the cinematic universe, with its shimmering skyline and iconic landmarks gracing both the big and small screens. Let’s embark on a journey through ten of the most famous films shot in this glamorous city.
1. “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001) – Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this star-studded heist film showcases several Las Vegas landmarks, including the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the MGM Grand casinos.
2. “Casino” (1995) – Directed by Martin Scorsese, this crime drama offers a dark and gritty portrayal of Las Vegas’ underworld. The film was shot at various locations around the city, including the Riviera Casino.
3. “The Hangover” (2009) – This comedy film, directed by Todd Phillips, features a group of friends experiencing a wild and unforgettable night in Las Vegas. Iconic locations include Caesars Palace and the Las Vegas Strip.
4. “Leaving Las Vegas” (1995) – Directed by Mike Figgis, this heart-wrenching drama, set entirely in Las Vegas, explores the city’s darker side. It features locations such as the Strip, the Desert Inn, and the Riviera Hotel and Casino.
5. “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” (1998) – Directed by Terry Gilliam, this film adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson’s novel presents a psychedelic trip through Las Vegas during the late ’60s. Notable locations include the Stardust Resort and Casino and the Mint Hotel.
6. “Con Air” (1997) – Directed by Simon West, this action-packed film features an unforgettable plane crash sequence on the Las Vegas Strip, with the iconic Sands Hotel serving as the backdrop.
7. “Rain Man” (1988) – Directed by Barry Levinson, this Oscar-winning film includes memorable scenes shot in Caesars Palace, where the protagonists use card counting to win at blackjack.
8. “21” (2008) – Directed by Robert Luketic, this film about a group of MIT students who become experts in card counting to win big in Las Vegas was shot in various locations, including the Planet Hollywood Casino.
9. “Viva Las Vegas” (1964) – Directed by George Sidney, this classic musical starring Elvis Presley showcases a bygone era of Las Vegas. Iconic locations included the Flamingo Hotel and the Little Church of the West.
10. “Diamonds Are Forever” (1971) – Directed by Guy Hamilton, this James Bond film features several scenes shot in Las Vegas, including a car chase down Fremont Street and a visit to the Tropicana Casino.
5 TV Shows Set in Las Vegas
Beyond the silver screen, Las Vegas has also found its way into the world of television. Here are 5 TV series that have brought the glittering city into our living rooms.
1. “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (2000–2015) – This popular crime drama series set in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Crime Scene Investigations bureau has showcased many parts of Las Vegas throughout its fifteen seasons.
2. “Vegas” (2012–2013) – This period drama series, set in Las Vegas during the 1960s, offers a historical perspective of the city. The series was partially shot in Las Vegas, capturing its vintage charm.
3. “Pawn Stars” (2009–present) – This reality TV series is set in the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, providing an intriguing glimpse into the city’s pawnbroking industry.
4. “The Player” (2015) – This action-packed series, set in Las Vegas, features a former military operative turned security expert who is drawn into a high-stakes game where wealthy individuals bet on his ability to stop major crimes.
5. “Las Vegas” (2003–2008) – This drama series, set in the fictional Montecito Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, offers an inside look into the operations of a major casino.
Animated Films Set in Las Vegas
Las Vegas’ vibrant ambiance and colorful landscapes have also charmed creators of animated films. Here’s a glimpse at the animated world’s take on Sin City.
1. “Rango” (2011) – Directed by Gore Verbinski, this animated film features a chameleon that ends up in an Old West town called Dirt, which is modeled after Las Vegas, complete with its own version of the Las Vegas Strip.
2. “Bolt” (2008) – Directed by Chris Williams and Byron Howard, this animated film includes a sequence in which the titular dog and his companions hitch a ride to Las Vegas in their journey from New York to Hollywood.
3. “Tom and Jerry: The Magic Ring” (2002) – Directed by James T. Walker, this made-for-TV movie features a scene in which the famous cat and mouse chase each other through a Las Vegas casino.
4. “The Simpsons: Viva Ned Flanders” (1999) – This episode of the long-running animated TV series sees Homer Simpson and his neighbor Ned Flanders taking a spontaneous trip to Las Vegas.
5. “Family Guy: Road to Vegas” (2013) – In this episode of “Family Guy,” Brian and Stewie end up in Las Vegas after a teleportation experiment goes awry.
Famous Books Set in Las Vegas: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Las Vegas’ allure extends beyond the screen and into the world of literature. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in the city that never sleeps.
Classic
1. “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson – This classic novel offers a psychedelic romp through 1960s Las Vegas, capturing the city’s wild spirit.
2. “Leaving Las Vegas” by John O’Brien – This novel, which was later adapted into a film, explores the darker side of Las Vegas through the story of a man who moves to the city to drink himself to death.
3. “The Stand” by Stephen King – In this post-apocalyptic novel, Las Vegas serves as the gathering place for the antagonistic forces led by the villainous Randall Flagg.
Contemporary
1. “Beautiful Children” by Charles Bock – This novel offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of contemporary Las Vegas through the interweaving stories of several characters.
2. “We Are Called to Rise” by Laura McBride – Set in modern-day Las Vegas, this novel explores the lives of four characters whose paths cross in the wake of a tragic incident.
3. “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel includes a significant section set in Las Vegas, capturing the stark contrast between the city’s glitz and its suburban life.
Exploring Las Vegas Filming Locations – Where to Go
To fully immerse yourself in the cinematic world of Las Vegas, there are several key locations worth visiting. Here are some iconic filming locations that have captured the essence of this captivating city.
1. Bellagio – Known for its grandeur and famous fountain show, the Bellagio has appeared in numerous films, including “Ocean’s Eleven” and “21.”
2. The Strip – This iconic stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South has been a backdrop for countless films like “Rain Man” and “The Hangover.”
3. Caesars Palace – Featured in films like “Rain Man” and “The Hangover,” this luxury hotel and casino is a must-visit for every film enthusiast.
4. Fremont Street – Known as the second most famous street in Las Vegas, Fremont Street, with its vintage neon signs, has appeared in films such as “Diamonds Are Forever.”
5. The Neon Museum – This museum houses retired neon signs from old casinos and other businesses. It has been featured in a number of films and offers guided tours.
6. Little Church of the West – This quaint chapel, featured in “Viva Las Vegas,” is one of the oldest buildings on the Strip and a popular wedding venue.
Where to Sleep in Las Vegas: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Las Vegas offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury options for your stay in the city.
Budget
1. The D Las Vegas – Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to Fremont Street.
2. Circus Circus Hotel & Casino – This family-friendly resort features a circus theme, along with affordable rooms and a variety of entertainment options.
3. Hostel Cat – For those on a tight budget, this hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations. It’s located close to the Stratosphere Casino and the famous Las Vegas sign.
Luxury
1. Bellagio Hotel and Casino – This luxury hotel and casino, renowned for its iconic fountains, offers elegant rooms and a variety of high-end restaurants and shops.
2. The Venetian Resort – This opulent resort, themed on Venice, offers spacious suites, a range of fine dining options, and features like the Grand Canal and the Venetian Gondolas.
3. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – This modern hotel features stylish, contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, several gourmet restaurants, and a prime location on the Strip.
Where to Eat in Las Vegas: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
As diverse as its entertainment options, Las Vegas’ culinary scene offers a plethora of choices for food lovers. Here are three budget and three luxury dining options in the city.
Budget
1. Earl of Sandwich – Located in Planet Hollywood, this budget-friendly eatery is known for its delicious sandwiches and salads.
2. Tacos El Gordo – This popular taco spot offers a variety of tasty and affordable Mexican dishes.
3. Secret Pizza – Hidden in the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, this unmarked spot serves delicious New York-style pizza at a reasonable price.
Luxury
1. Restaurant Guy Savoy – Located in Caesars Palace, this French restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Guy Savoy offers an exceptional fine dining experience.
2. Joí«l Robuchon – This three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the MGM Grand offers exquisite French cuisine in an opulent setting.
3. Nobu – Located in Caesars Palace, this upscale Japanese restaurant by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa offers innovative dishes and a unique dining experience.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the cinematic wonders Las Vegas has to offer, we’ve curated a three-day itinerary that takes you through the city’s most iconic filming locations.
Day 1: The Strip
- Start your day with a stroll down the Las Vegas Strip, taking in the sights of this iconic boulevard featured in countless films.
- Visit the Bellagio, explore its grand interiors, and watch the famous fountain show.
- Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Caesars Palace, featured in films like “Rain Man.”
- Spend the afternoon exploring the luxurious Venetian Resort, with its Grand Canal and gondolas.
- Have dinner at the Restaurant Guy Savoy in Caesars Palace.
Day 2: Downtown Las Vegas
- Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to Fremont Street.
- Explore the vintage charm of Fremont Street, featured in films like “Diamonds Are Forever.”
- Visit The Neon Museum to see the iconic retired neon signs of Las Vegas.
- Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Fremont Street.
- Spend the afternoon exploring the Mob Museum, showcasing Las Vegas’ history with organized crime.
- Have dinner at Hugo’s Cellar, a vintage Vegas dining spot in the Four Queens Hotel.
Day 3: Off the Beaten Path
- Start your day with a visit to the Little Church of the West, featured in “Viva Las Vegas.”
- Head to the Pinball Hall of Fame, a fun location featured in various TV shows.
- Enjoy lunch at a local diner.
- Spend the afternoon at the Red Rock Canyon, a filming location for various movies and TV shows.
- End your day with dinner at the Top of the World restaurant in the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Las Vegas isn’t just known for its glitz and glamour; it also has its share of local legends and curiosities. One such legend is the mysterious “Mole People” said to inhabit the extensive network of flood channels beneath the city. These tales add an intriguing layer of mystery to this glamorous city, making it even more fascinating for the curious traveler.
Hidden Gems in Las Vegas
Aside from its famous landmarks, Las Vegas is also home to several hidden gems that offer a different perspective of the city. One such spot is the Neon Boneyard, a part of The Neon Museum, housing old neon signs from Las Vegas’ past. Another is the Art District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with art galleries, vintage stores, and chic bistros.
What to Pack for a Trip to Las Vegas
When gearing up for your film-themed trip to Las Vegas, consider the city’s desert climate. Pack lightweight clothing for the hot summer months and warm layers for the cooler winter season. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for exploring the city, a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Remember to pack a camera to capture your cinematic journey, a portable charger for your gadgets, and a map of Las Vegas. Also, bring a notebook to jot down your experiences at each film location, and a translation app might come handy when navigating the city.
How to Dress in Las Vegas
While Las Vegas is known for its glitzy attire, the city’s dress code is generally casual during the day. Think comfortable clothing suitable for exploring the city. However, if you plan to dine at a high-end restaurant or watch a show, it’s best to dress smart casual. For clubbing, dress to impress. Remember, the city can be quite hot in the summer and chilly in the winter, so pack accordingly.
Transportation Tips for Las Vegas
Getting around Las Vegas is relatively easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The Las Vegas Monorail, buses, and taxis are widely available. For a more scenic experience, consider taking a gondola ride at The Venetian or the tram that runs between some casinos on the Strip. Also, many top attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Travel Documents Needed
Before heading to Las Vegas, ensure you have all the necessary travel documents. These typically include a valid ID or passport. International visitors will need a valid passport, visa, or an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Program. Check the latest travel advice for visiting the United States before your trip.
Conclusion
Las Vegas, with its vibrant energy and cinematic allure, offers a unique journey through the annals of film and literature. Whether you’re retracing the steps of famous movie characters or exploring the settings of beloved books, the City of Lights promises a memorable experience. So, pack your bags, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready to explore the cinematic side of Las Vegas. Action!
