Nevada, USA
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Lake Mead National Recreation Area are protected desert ecosystems. Clark County Wetlands Park restores local wetlands.
Resorts improve sustainability, but recycling bins may not be prominent on gaming floors. Inquire about hotel recycling options. Opt for digital tickets/receipts to reduce paper.
Las Vegas, a desert city, faces water scarcity, relying on the Colorado River. Be mindful of water usage: shorter showers, reusing towels, turning off faucets. Many resorts utilize water-saving measures.
Your choices play a role in fostering environmental well-being.
When visiting Red Rock Canyon or Lake Mead, follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and do not disturb wildlife or natural formations.
Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it from hotel water stations (tap water is safe to drink). This minimizes single-use plastic bottles. Use a reusable shopping bag for souvenirs.
Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your flights and long-distance ground transportation. Many airlines and third-party organizations invest in projects reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Research hotels with green certifications (LEED) or clear sustainability programs. Some resorts strive to reduce energy, conserve water, and manage waste effectively.
Support brands committed to sustainability for outdoor gear and reusable products.
PatagoniaChoose tour operators that stress responsible tourism and minimal environmental impact on natural sites.
G AdventuresCarry a reusable water bottle. Las Vegas tap water is safe, and many resorts feature water stations for refills.
Cultural sensitivity during your visit fosters respectful interactions and preserves the destination's integrity and community.
Support efforts to preserve historic Las Vegas. Visit The Neon Museum and The Mob Museum (downtown) to learn about the city's unique past. Off-Strip, be aware that these are residential areas.
Be mindful of privacy. Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially locals or street performers. Avoid photographing casino gaming floors; this generally restricts privacy and security. Do not photograph street performers without permission; a small tip often follows a photo.
Explore the Downtown Arts District. Support independent boutiques and galleries. Dine at non-chain restaurants.
Look for 'Made in Nevada' or 'Made in USA'. Inquire about product origins. Seek ethically sourced crafts.
This topic not directly applicable to the Las Vegas Strip, but for sites elsewhere, dress modestly, remove shoes if required, speak quietly, and respect services.
When interacting with service staff, remain polite and patient. They work hard to provide a good experience.
Responsible travel considers your visit's economic impact, aiming to support local communities and avoid harmful practices.
Direct community-based tourism initiatives are limited on the Strip due to its corporate nature. However, you can support local businesses off-Strip. Look for opportunities to engage with the local economy outside of major resorts.
When shopping for souvenirs or gifts, inquire about product origin. Look for 'Made in Nevada' or 'Made in USA' products to support local economies and ethical labor. The Downtown Arts District may have more independent boutiques with ethically sourced items.
On the Strip, consider dining at restaurants run by local chefs rather than large chain establishments. Off-Strip, dine at non-chain restaurants, shop at local boutiques, and use local service providers.
Prostitution is illegal in Clark County, including Las Vegas. Engaging in or supporting such activities is against the law and carries significant legal risks. Be vigilant for human trafficking; report suspicious activity to authorities (911 or 1-888-373-7888).
Engaging responsibly with the city supports positive outcomes.
Set a budget and adhere to it. Do not borrow money to gamble. Resources for problem gambling are available (e.g., 1-800-522-4700).
If donating to charity, research reputable local non-profit organizations. Focus on community support, environmental conservation, or social services.
Discover local artists and artisans in the Downtown Arts District. Purchasing their creations puts money directly into the local creative community.
Engaging in activities like irresponsible gambling or supporting illegal services carries consequences. Always prioritize safety and ethical choices.
Discovering the Downtown Arts District presents a local experience and opportunity to support small businesses.