Visiting Las Vegas can be incredibly overwhelming. The good news is you’re liable to have fun even if you go without any kind of plan our outline for the experience. The bad news, however, is that there are so many casinos, shows, restaurants, spas, pools, and bright lights up and down the Strip that you might feel somewhat dizzy the entire time.

We’re not going to outline a full trip to Vegas, because there are just too many different ways to do it. The resort you stay in and the attractions you choose to enjoy are largely a matter of personal preference, and at the end of the day it’s up to you to do the research on the specifics. But to help you along, here are some more general tips for how to get the most out of your time in Sin City.

Resorts Are Ranked For Different Things

You can find resort rankings of the top Vegas establishment, and they’re all pretty convincing. In most cases they’ll describe the amenities and comforts of different establishments, and sometimes they’ll include pictures that make those establishments look irresistible. But the truth is most of the major Vegas resorts have pretty incredible comforts and amenities, and any of them can be propped up to look amazing. The key, if you’re doing research, is to know what the rankings you’re looking at are focusing on. Some prioritize the quality of the rooms, some focus on the size of the casinos, and some take things like spas and restaurants into account. Knowing what you’re looking at can help you conduct searches based on your own priorities.

Cirque du Soleil Is Different Everywhere

There are all kinds of shows to enjoy in Vegas, but Cirque du Soleil is sort of the main attraction, at least in terms of consistency. But it’s important to know that you don’t just go see Cirque du Soleil in a generic sense. There are different shows at different venues, and they actually vary tremendously. That said, it’s a lot of fun to take in any of these performances, as they’re all pretty mind-blowing. But from the mystical “KA” at the MGM Grand to “The Beatles LOV” at The Mirage, there’s a full selection to consider.

Blackjack Isn’t A Guessing Game

People get excited about all kinds of casino games in Vegas, but Blackjack can wind up being the biggest draw for a lot of tourists. It’s more complex and satisfying than just playing slots or roulette wheels, yet it’s not as intimidating as poker. Even so, however, it’s important to approach the game the right way. Blackjack isn’t a guessing game or a pure chance experience. There are actually set rules as to when to hit and stand that are based on mathematical probabilities, and you’d do well to study them before you get out to Vegas – if, that is, you plan on playing any Blackjack. It’s always important to be responsible when you’re on the casino floors, but winning a few hands at this quick but dramatic game can be one of the bigger thrills in town.

You’ll Find The Most Unique Bars Of Your Life

There’s a lot of focus on nightlife in Las Vegas, and that tends to mean two things: casinos and clubs. As fun as these two types of attractions are, however, Vegas is also home to some of the most unique and interesting bars you’ll ever find. Some of the themed bars include one with sub-zero temperatures, one lined with creepy paintings, and an authentic feeling tiki room, among others. There’s even one dedicated to Moscow’s Red Square! You don’t have to skip the clubs altogether, but consider focusing on bars instead. They’re well worth your time.

The Fountains Aren’t To Be Missed

No matter where your image of Vegas comes from – a movie, a poster, a story you’ve been told by friends, or even a previous visit – chances are it includes an iconic feature of one of the big resorts. It might be the canals at The Venetian, the pool at Caesars Palace, or even the artificial beach at Mandalay Bay. These are all worth checking out in person. But above them all, the Bellagio fountains should be on your list. It’s a little bit of a cliché at this point to stand by at night and watch the fountains burst up over the Strip. But it’s one cliché worth embracing, as the fountains seem to capture the majesty of Vegas in motion.

We could go on talking about the best places to shop, the restaurants to try, which resorts have the best spas, and even what you should do during the day. But any Vegas travel guide could go on for pages without interruption. Hopefully these scattered, general tips have given you a clearer idea of how you’d like to organize your time in a city that’s still among the most entertaining tourist destinations in the U.S.