Bars Unknown: The Original Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl

Planning a night out in Las Vegas can be overwhelming, especially with so many flashy clubs and busy casinos vying for your attention. If you’re after an experience that combines authentic charm, secret spots, and genuine local insights, Bars Unknown: The Original Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl offers a refreshing alternative. This guided tour takes you on a 3-hour journey through some of the most unique, hidden, and popular bars along the Strip—think speakeasies behind barber shops, rooftop lounges with iconic views, and secret tequila hideouts.

What we love about this experience is how it emphasizes local knowledge and authenticity. Instead of generic bar-hopping, you’ll visit a carefully curated list of about a dozen venues, each with its own story and vibe. Plus, the fact that you can walk and drink legally outside makes it a laid-back, flexible way to explore the city at your own pace. One potential drawback? If you’re not a big drinker or prefer a more structured nightlife scene, this might feel more casual than a full-on club crawl.

This tour is ideal for groups of friends, couples, bachelorettes, or even solo travelers looking for a lively but authentic taste of Vegas nightlife. It’s especially suited if you love discovering hidden gems rather than just the mainstream spots. Just remember, it’s not a pub crawl for those wanting a sit-down, seated experience—it’s about exploring, tasting, and soaking in the Vegas ambiance.

Key Points

• Authentic underground spots: Visit hidden speakeasies, rooftops, and secret bars that most travelers miss.
• Local guide insights: Your guide, Jonathan Dez, is praised for being knowledgeable and fun, making each stop more engaging.
• Flexible bar choices: You can choose which bars to spend more time in, enjoying happy hour deals and cheap drinks.
• Walking exploration: The tour design encourages walking between venues, making it a relaxed and immersive experience.
• Value for money: At $49, the tour offers a well-rounded experience of Vegas’s bar scene without high cover charges.
• Ideal for various groups: Perfect for girls’ trips, bachelor parties, solo adventurers, or anyone wanting an off-the-beaten-path Vegas experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Vegas Bar Crawl Experience

First Impressions and Booking

Starting at the Best Western Plus Casino Royale, the tour begins with a safety briefing and a quick introduction to what’s ahead. For $49 per person, this activity offers great value, especially considering the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and a walking tour of some iconic and lesser-known spots. You reserve your spot with the flexibility of pay later, which is perfect in a city where plans can shift unexpectedly.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour’s itinerary is crafted to maximize exposure to a broad spectrum of Vegas nightlife. While the exact sequence can vary depending on group pace and preferences, here’s a typical flow:

• Hidden Speakeasies: The tour kicks off with visits to unique bars like a 1920s-style speakeasy tucked behind a barber shop. These spots offer a taste of secret Vegas, with vintage decor and craft cocktails that evoke prohibition-era glamour. From a review, one guest noted, “Jonathan was the BEST, and I learned a lot about Vegas’s hidden bar scene.” That’s a sign this is about more than just drinks—it’s about stories and atmospheres.

• Secret Tequila Bar: Next, you’ll find a hidden tequila bar behind an exit sign—an unexpected spot that adds a sense of adventure. Such hidden gems give you the chance to enjoy quality spirits in intimate settings, often with better prices and more character than the busy main drag.

• Rooftop Bars with Views: Expect visits to two rooftop spots during the walk, which not only provide scenic views of the Strip but also a chance to relax while soaking in the Vegas skyline. One reviewer appreciated the “scenic views on the way,” emphasizing how these stops blend scenery with socializing.

• Themed Hangouts: The tour also includes visits to places like a “hidden ski lodge” and a “hole-in-the-wall with dollar beers,” offering a variety of atmospheres—from cozy and quirky to lively and affordable.

• Happy Hour & Deal Spots: The tour emphasizes happy hour specials, with many spots featuring 2-for-1 drinks, $3 beers, or $5 cocktails. These deals help stretch your dollar, especially if you’re planning to sample multiple places.

• Street Food & Local Snacks: Some stops include street food or regional bites, providing a taste of local flavor alongside your drinks. One review pointed out the inclusion of local snacks and street food as a highlight.

• Wildlife & Scenic Stops: Not just bars, the itinerary includes scenic photo stops like the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, where you can snap some fun photos and enjoy some wildlife viewing.

• Ending at a Local Favorite: The tour wraps up either back at Cosmopolitan or BrewDog, a popular craft beer spot. While most don’t make it to the very end, that flexibility allows for a natural end or further exploration on your own.

The Guide: Knowledge and Enthusiasm

Reviews consistently mention Jonathan Dez as a guide who is both fun and informative. “Jonathan was the BEST,” says a traveler, noting how he adds value with insights into Vegas’s bar history and local tips. His approachable attitude helps make the experience relaxed yet engaging, especially when navigating some of the hidden or secret venues.

The Experience: What You Get

Aside from the bars themselves, the tour offers a real sense of local Vegas culture—from speakeasies to rooftop scenic views—without feeling rushed or overly commercialized. The walking pace is manageable, but most participants find it suits those ready to move at a lively but relaxed pace. And because you can choose which bars to linger at, you can tailor the experience based on your interests, whether that’s more scenic views, hidden gems, or budget-friendly drinks.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration and Timing: The tour lasts around 3 hours, with starting times depending on availability. It’s designed to be flexible, but be prepared for some walking and standing.
• Price and Value: At $49, the tour covers the guide and the experience of exploring multiple venues. Drinks are not included, but the emphasis on happy hour deals significantly enhances value.
• What to Bring: Remember your passport or ID for age verification, as well as comfortable shoes for walking. Cash might be handy for some cash-only spots, and staying hydrated is essential.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or anyone under 21. No pets allowed, except assistance animals.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This bar crawl appeals to those who want to see a different side of Vegas—away from the crowded clubs and glossy casinos. Ideal for groups, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy discovering hidden spots and tasting local favorites. It suits adventurous, social, and laid-back travelers who appreciate good stories, scenic views, and affordable drinks. If you’re not into structured nightlife and prefer exploring at your own pace, this tour strikes a perfect balance.

Final Thoughts: The Value of the Vegas Hidden Bar Crawl

Overall, Bars Unknown: The Original Las Vegas Strip Bar Crawl offers a genuinely authentic and fun way to experience Vegas beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s about uncovering the city’s best-kept secrets and enjoying a diverse selection of bars, from vintage speakeasies to scenic rooftops—all with a friendly guide to point out the coolest spots.

At $49, you’re getting a guided exploration that balances value, authenticity, and entertainment. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, social, and memorable evening that highlights the city’s hidden gems, scenic views, and budget-friendly drink deals.

For those who love discovering off-the-beaten-path venues and enjoy local insights, this tour is a fantastic addition to your Vegas itinerary. Just be prepared to walk, sip, and soak in the lively Vegas atmosphere—your new favorite bar might just be hiding behind an exit sign or tucked away in a rooftop lounge.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for groups? Yes, the tour is great for groups, including bachelorettes, friends, or even solo travelers looking for a social experience.

Are drinks included in the tour price? No, drinks are not included, but you’ll benefit from happy hour deals and special drink prices at most venues.

How long does the tour last? The activity lasts around 3 hours, with some variation depending on the group pace and preferences.

Where does the tour start? It begins at the main bar inside Casino Royale on the Strip.

Can I choose which bars to visit? You can select which bars to spend more time in, enjoying the happy hour deals and atmosphere.

Is the tour walking or transportation-based? It is a walking tour, allowing you to explore different venues and enjoy scenic views along the way.

Is it suitable for people under 21? No, the tour is only for guests 21 and older due to alcohol consumption.

What should I bring? Valid ID (passport or driver’s license), comfortable shoes, and some cash for cash-only spots.

What happens if I cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I book this activity last-minute? Yes, availability depends on the day, but it’s recommended to reserve in advance to secure your spot.

Whether you’re a Vegas veteran or a first-timer, this guided bar crawl offers a uniquely local perspective on the city’s nightlife. Expect fun stories, scenic views, and some of the best hidden and iconic bars along the Strip. Cheers to discovering Vegas’s secret side—one drink at a time!