A Journey Down the Vegas Video Rabbit Hole

Vegas Videos for your obsessive entertainment

As a complete Vegas outsider (seriously, don’t come to be for the breaking news and up-to-the-minute information) I ache to get back to the Promised Land in the desert. That’s why the moment I hit “Book Now” on my next Vegas adventure I also get sucked down a Vegas video rabbit hole, like a time-honored tradition that gets me all the more excited with each (wasted) minute. Whether I’m on the hunt for the next hot spot to patronize or just the familiar sights and sounds of the Strip at night, here’s a few of my favorites to prepare me for my next trip. Be sure to share some of your favorites — I could use a few more options to add to the playlist.

Stuff to Do

“Locals Only: Las Vegas (Episode 2)”
User: Locals Only
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra0FBv7CNS0&list=PLL1vbwGacdKzXxicm-KUCkOlxT-BkejYh&index=5

We know the Strip and Fremont Street like the back of our hand, but what secrets and treasures are the rest of Sin City hiding? Locals Only does a great job diving into the little-known highlights for food lovers that may want to venture off the tourist-ridden path.

Some of their highlights don’t exist anymore (R.I.P. O-Face Doughnuts), but there’s still some great hot spots to check out for those looking to grub on some of the best food in the world that nobody seems to know about.

“Top 10 Hidden Gems of Las Vegas.”
User: Justin Flom
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3T6-Hjo5mMI

Another local’s look into the best and hottest things to do in the city, as told by an actual local. There may be a few gems you recognize like the historic Peppermill and the beloved Sigma Derby machine, but how about the best place to make a quiet phone call? Even if you know every “gem” on the list, the beautiful sights and videography will have you hurting to get back as soon as possible. It even caps off with a pretty impressive magic trick. How very Vegas.

The Voyeur Vacationer

“Vegascapes: A Las Vegas Timelapse Trip”
User: Dustin Farrell
Link: https://vimeo.com/149247725

A 4K timelapse that is beautifully shot and amazingly edited to the catchy tones of Matt & Kim show\ the best sides of the beautiful city from some of the most surprising angles. This is a must watch for anyone missing the sights of the Strip.

“Things to do in Las Vegas Travel Guide”
User: NomadicSamuel
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM2YDRlW94I

Though the title of the video is on the generic side and isn’t the most helpful for Vegas veterans, nothing is more fun than watching these adorable Canadians enjoy the warm weather and extreme sights the Strip has to offer.

They enjoy some fast food, a Grand Canyon helicopter trip, a sports car driving experience, and a $2 gambling spree. Their passion shines through, and you can’t help but smile as they enjoy the quintessential first-time visitor experience.

“Las Vegas Vlog September 2015”
User: Theme Park Worldwide
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYOQP3YwyhY

Not everyone comes to Sin City for the debaucheries of drinking, gambling and clubs. Some come seeking more family-friendly thrills, and lucky for us this band of traveling buds from overseas shot their entire Las Vegas thrill-seeking adventure for a vlog that lasts over an hour…and I love every minute of it.

Not Your Typical Vegas Videos

“The Ruins of Las Vegas | Idea Channel | PBS Digital Studios”
User: PBS Idea Channel
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MySO7UBTlbI

This video provides and insightful and interesting look one of the hardest times in the city’s history just a few years ago when the 2008 mortgage and financial crisis plagued the country. Do the skeletons of unfinished hotels and casinos stand as ruins before they ever served a purpose? Do Vegas’ large “monuments” serve to awe and impress for a short period, just to be blown up and make way for the next? This interesting think piece dives right in.

“Undercity: Las Vegas”
User: Palladium Boots
Link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnNwbl7pVsxQ-VpsI0temAAeZkGiQAq5i

This three-part series produced by Palladium Boots takes urban adventurer Steve Duncan into the storm drains and subterranean passages of the Strip where he meets some of the locals and sees some of the “sights” no tourist is bound to see. From there, he shares a rare view from the top of the abandoned Fontainebleau project while dodging motion detectors and night guards. Primo entertainment! 

Plain ‘Ol Entertaining

“Vegas Strip, Season 2 Episode 4” (image in article header)
truTV
Link: http://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/vegas-strip/episodes-season-1/348731/

Fans of a particular N.W.A song may want to watch this one to change their opinion on cops. Vegas Strip is a truTV series in the same vein as COPS but takes place only on the most interesting stretch of street in the world — the Las Vegas Strip. It only lasted three seasons (July 2011-December 2012), but every episode is a fun, action-packed ride.

One of my favorite episodes includes a tweaked-out wannabe Robin Hood and a flirtatious little person from Down Under. If you’re missing the people watching and party atmosphere, just load up any episode — through legal means, of course.

[Images: Youtube & Vimeo Users listed, TruTV]

Alex Cocilova

Prior to being a Las Vegas enthusiasts, Alex wrote for PCWorld magazine. Now, between being a tech nut and addicted gamer, Alex spends his time absorbing everything he can find about Sin City. From articles to podcasts, to the latest and greatest craps strategy that just can’t fail, Alex wants to know it all. He’ll do his best to pass that knowledge on to you, the loyal Vegas Bright readers.