17 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas

"For years, this area of Downtown Las Vegas was a motley collection of antiques stores, galleries, and work spaces. Originally named "18b" after the number of blocks that first comprised the district, the Downtown Arts District has now spread far beyond its original parameters. It has now coalesced into a real district around West Charleston—sandwiched between the excesses of The Strip and Fremont Street to the north. The businesses of the Arts District have pulled together to form cooperative events that are truly incredible. Some have Vegas Strip-level production values, and some are still homespun and crazy, and that's the charm of this area. First Friday (the evening art, craft, and music event around Charleston and Main Streets on the first Friday of each month) has long been a local institution; but now there's a Preview Thursday (which attracts serious art buyers), Ninja Karaoke (in the Sumo Room, Kabuki Room, and Little Tokyo), and even theater at the Vegas Theatre Company." - Andrea Bennett