When most people think of Las Vegas, their minds immediately jump to the iconic Las Vegas Strip, with its glittering casinos, high-end restaurants, and over-the-top shows.
But for those looking to explore a different side of the city, Fremont Street offers a more authentic, laid-back, and equally thrilling experience.
Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street captures the essence of “Old Vegas” while blending in modern attractions, unique experiences, and affordable entertainment.
Here’s why Fremont Street might just be the best part of your next Las Vegas trip, along with the top things to do and tips for making the most of your visit.
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Why Fremont Street is the Best Part of Las Vegas
1. The Historic Appeal of Old Vegas
Fremont Street is where Las Vegas began!
Known as the birthplace of the city’s original casinos, it offers a glimpse into the past, with retro neon signs and vintage casinos like the Golden Nugget and Binion’s that have stood the test of time.
Walking down Fremont Street feels like a trip back to the 1950s, but with the added excitement of modern attractions like the light & sound show of the Fremont Street Experience, which brings Old Vegas into the present day.
2. Cheap Things to Do on Fremont Street
One of the main draws of Fremont Street is how budget-friendly it can be.
Compared to the Strip, you’ll find plenty of cheap things to do that don’t sacrifice fun.
For starters, the light show at the Fremont Street Experience is completely free and happens every hour after dusk.
There’s also free live music on 3 different stages every night!
Whether you like pop or EDM, rock or country, there’s music for everyone’s taste. You can sing and dance the night away completely free!
Drinks are also cheaper and there are great happy hours to be found everywhere (which can’t be said about the Strip).
The street performers are wildly entertaining, adding to the energy of the area without costing you a dime.
You can also take in a slice of Vegas history at the Neon Museum, where old casino signs are beautifully restored and displayed.
3. Unique Experiences on Fremont Street
Fremont Street is home to experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
One of the most exhilarating is the SlotZilla Zip Line, which lets you soar over the entire street, providing a bird’s-eye view of the crowds, neon lights, and bustling casinos below.
If you’re into quirky attractions, Container Park offers a mix of boutique shops, bars, and live entertainment—all housed in repurposed shipping containers.
And if you’re looking for a bit of retro charm, don’t miss a visit to Atomic Liquors, one of the oldest bars in Vegas, famous for its history and classic cocktails.
4. Things to Do Besides Gambling
While Fremont Street has its share of casinos, it’s not all about gambling.
In fact, it’s a great place to explore even if you don’t step foot in a casino.
You can watch live concerts at the Fremont Street Experience stage, enjoy street performers, or take a leisurely stroll through the Mob Museum to learn about the history of organized crime in Las Vegas.
You can take a walking foodie and mural tour!
Visit the Fremont East district where there’s great shopping. I particularly love Ferguson’s Downtown. It’s a vintage motel that’s been converted to local artisan shops.
Fremont Street is also just minutes away from the burgeoning Downtown Arts District (my favorite neighborhood lately)!
Here you can discover local galleries, murals, and monthly art festivals like First Friday.
The Arts District also has incredible breweries!
One of my favorites is Servehzah – make sure to try the Michelada flight!
5. Must-See Fremont Street Experiences
There are certain things you just can’t miss on Fremont Street.
The nightly Viva Vision Light Show is one of them, where the canopy above the pedestrian walkway lights up with dazzling LED displays synced to music.
Another must-see is the Golden Nugget’s Shark Tank, a massive aquarium right in the middle of the casino that features a water slide going through it.
6. Unique Restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street is also a hub for foodies looking for something a little different.
There are plenty of unique restaurants to choose from.
For a fine dining experience without the steep price tag, check out Hugo’s Cellar, a beloved spot located in the Four Queens casino, where every woman is greeted with a complimentary rose.
Or if you’re in the mood for something casual, Pizza Rock serves up award-winning pies with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
For a true Vegas classic, stop by Heart Attack Grill, a quirky eatery known for its oversized burgers and hospital-themed decor.
Tip: the best way to experience the flavors of downtown Las Vegas is through a foodie tour!
7. Las Vegas Aesthetic and Vibes
Fremont Street’s aesthetic is SO distinct from the Strip.
Neon lights, vintage casinos, and a lively street scene make it feel more authentic and approachable.
Whether it’s the nostalgic charm of Old Vegas or the artistic flare of downtown’s murals, Fremont Street has an aesthetic that stands out.
It’s more gritty and real, providing an experience that feels less manufactured than the glitzy, commercialized Strip.
If you’re into film photography, you could spend days capturing incredible photos here.
For a sample of film photography, check my photos that I captured of downtown Las Vegas on film.
8. Better Hotel Choices
To truly soak up the energy of Fremont, I recommend you stay downtown for at least 1 or 2 nights.
Fremont Street is also home to some fantastic hotel options that offer both luxury and convenience without the hefty price tag of the Strip.
Here are some of my favorite hotels in downtown Las Vegas.
Circa Hotel stands out with its modern amenities, rooftop pool, and the largest sportsbook in Vegas, providing a sleek, contemporary stay.
For a more classic feel, Plaza Hotel & Casino combines vintage Vegas charm with modern updates.
Weekday rates start at $40 and their rooftop pool is ultra chill and has some of the most affordable drinks and day beds.
Lastly, the iconic Golden Nugget is perfect for those wanting a touch of Old Vegas glamour, complete with its famous shark tank pool and elegant accommodations.
For the best hotel deals, check out rates on Plannin!
9. Everything is Less Expensive!
If you feel like you’re getting fleeced everywhere you turn in Vegas, you’re not alone. The Strip is becoming unaffordable these days.
But in downtown Vegas, it’s quite the opposite.
First, hotel prices are incredibly cheap compared to the Strip.
Even the Circa Hotel, which competes with the Wynn and Cosmopolitan has rates as low as $130 per night.
Other hotels like the D Hotel have rates that start at $40 per night – and that comes with free entry to Stadium Swim (which is normally $25 per person)!
And not only that, most hotel rooms around Fremont come with a mini-fridge (something that’s hard to find on the Strip).
And there’s an ABC store right on Fremont, meaning you can stock up on drinks for cheap and store them in your hotel room’s fridge.
Beside hotel savings, table minimums are so much lower – there are $5 dollar blackjack tables and $10 roulette tables everywhere!
10. Vibrant Nightlife and Entertainment
Fremont Street may not have the mega clubs of the Strip, but its nightlife is just as electric, if not more intimate and accessible.
From live music stages with free performances to quirky bars like The Laundry Room (a hidden speakeasy with crafted cocktails), you’ll never run out of places to enjoy the night.
Fremont Street’s relaxed, open-air environment creates a lively vibe where you can party and explore with ease.
Tips for Your Fremont Street Visit
Before heading downtown, there are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:
- Timing is Everything: The energy of Fremont Street really comes alive after sunset, so if possible, plan your visit in the evening to catch the light show and experience the vibrant nightlife.
- Tip: if you have time, I recommend showing up in the late afternoon to do some unique shopping and mural viewing first!
- Dress for the Occasion: Fremont Street is a pedestrian area, so wear comfortable shoes for walking. And if you plan to visit any high-end restaurants or lounges, make sure you check their dress code in advance.
- Plan Your Itinerary: With so much to see and do, it’s worth planning a loose itinerary. Whether you’re checking out the casinos, grabbing a drink at a unique bar, or catching a live show, having a plan will ensure you don’t miss any highlights.
Why Fremont Street Should Be Part of Your Las Vegas Itinerary
Fremont Street offers a completely different side of Las Vegas that you won’t experience on the Strip.
It’s where the past and present collide, creating a unique blend of history, entertainment, and culture.
Whether you’re looking for affordable things to do, seeking a more authentic Vegas experience, or simply wanting to explore a new part of town, Fremont Street is a must-see on any Las Vegas itinerary.
For many visitors, Fremont Street ends up being their favorite part of the trip. From the buzzing atmosphere to the free attractions and affordable dining, it shows that there’s more to Vegas than the glitz and glamor of the Strip.
So, on your next trip to Las Vegas, make sure to venture downtown—you might just discover that the best part of the city isn’t where you expected it to be.