Dont Walk Here..

There is always a debate about the safety of walking around downtown Vegas. Some will say walking to El Cortez, Gold Spike or Western (RIP) are dangerous (mostly untrue).
But I'd like to know where one should seriously avoid when roaming around. I have no problem going to the Spike or Western or around the old Lady Luck, but wont venture past that (mostly because I dont know the aera).

So where should we, as tourists, really avoid?

Marko..

I also like to wander off the beaten path. I have never had any problems downtown, even when walking alone several blocks away from the FSE area. I have run into a few shady characters over the years, especially on Fremont east of the Western Casino / Atomic Liquor area. There were a couple times I was prepared to fight but didn't have to.

Just use common sense. Walk during daylight hours, not at 3AM after having way too much vodka. Don't be counting a wad of $100 bills as you walk, don't wear your Rolex, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Frankly, I have no real reason for walking in the so-called "bad" areas other than the fact I enjoy it from time to time. As a bonus, my friends always enjoy hearing stories of some of the crazy things I've seen!

I agree with chadly's reply. I would add that I would not bring my wife, at night, in that area. I can handle myself but why put her in jepardy just because I wanted to take a walk on the wild side? and of course a $5 taxi ride would get us both back safe and sound.
Its not as bad as it was in that area now as it was 10 years ago or even 5 years ago, but why chance it?

weggie

Ability to handle oneself kinda goes out of the window when faced with a gun, a knife or a gang.
I'll do my" Walk on the Wild Side" at Sigfried and Roy's Secret Garden

Sometimes it's not so much where you walk, as to how you walk.

BTW, I feel that certain times walking the Boardwalk at Atlantic City
can be far worse than walking to the El Cortez from Fremont street.


Rick

That's not saying much, IMHO. Anyone who is worried about walking from FSE to the El Cortez either lives a very sheltered life or just isn't paying attention. The REALLY scary place to walk is in front of the Golden Nugget. Those stupid time-share hawkers are aggressive.

To be honest, sometimes Im more concerned when walking around the Vegas Club at 2 in the afternoon than I am walking to El Co at 2 in the morning..

marko..