Be sure not to miss the original Vegas

Photo by Todd DeFeo

By Todd DeFeo / (c) 2011

LAS VEGAS — Say Las Vegas today, and most people think of The Strip.

But, the original “gambling district” of Las Vegas lies a few miles away.

Famed casinos such as the Golden Nugget, Binion’s and Golden Gate all reside along Fremont Street.

In 1925, the street became the first paved street in Las Vegas. But in 2004, the street closed to make way for a new attraction.

Since August 2007, the Fremont Street Experience has drawn visitors downtown.

Over the years, the area has also been featured in a number of movies, including James Bond’s Diamonds Are Forever and also the music video for U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For.”

Arguably one of Las Vegas’ most recognized and endearing symbols, Vegas Vic, has called the street home since 1951. Located above what was once the Pioneer Club (and today a souvenir shop), the 40-foot-tall neon cowboy has graced countless postcards.

 

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About Todd DeFeo 1651 Articles
Todd DeFeo loves to travel anywhere, anytime, taking pictures and notes. An award-winning reporter, Todd revels in the experience and the fact that every place has a story to tell. He is the owner of The DeFeo Groupe and also edits Express Telegraph and Railfanning.org.