Question: Every year, we go down to Vegas for a soccer tournament during spring break. Soccer is not my favorite thing to watch, and I am 16 this year, so I'm taking a friend and we're going to hang out on the Strip for most of the day. I was wondering is there is much crime to worry about. I know it's kind of a dumb question, but are there areas to avoid? Also do you know if there is a Las Vegas curfew for minors?
Josh in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Answer: This is not a dumb question at all, Josh. It's a terrific question, and I appreciate you sending it in.
The Strip is relatively safe in comparison to similar main drags in other major cities. I personally don't want to walk around on Broadway in New York City or Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles at 1 a.m., but wouldn't think twice about doing it on the Strip in Vegas.
Usually the worst things you have to worry about are pickpockets and other petty theft. Just keep your wallet in your front pocket or get one with a chain to attach to your belt loop (looks cooler than it sounds) and be a little extra vigilant in areas where people are standing around watching one of the Vegas attractions, such as in front of the Bellagio fountains or TI Pirate Battle -- a big group of stationary, distracted people is a lure for pickpockets.
But don't wander off the Strip or go any further north than Sahara Boulevard at night. There are some less-than-savory neighborhoods right around there. As long as you stick to the Strip, you should be fine.
There is a curfew. If you're under 18, you can't be out after 10 p.m. on weekdays or midnight on weekends unless accompanied by an adult. There are varying reports as to how strictly this curfew is enforced. I suspect things are a little more relaxed on the Strip, where the tourists are, than they would be in the regular neighborhoods, but play it safe and stick to your hotel when it gets late. You also won't be allowed to enter any casino without an adult and you won't be allowed to hang out near any of the gambling -- you have to stick to the marked walkways.
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