Downtown Gaming

Since its beginnings as a dusty whistle stop, Fremont Street has evolved into a thriving business and entertainment district, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the Fremont Street Experience. In 1995, to encourage more businesses to open on Fremont Street and to help sustain the businesses that were already there, the casino-lined street was transformed into a pedestrian mall. A canopy that features nightly light shows on the world's largest digital display was constructed over the street, which was partially paid for by the city of Las Vegas. In addition to the light shows, the Fremont Street Experience features 10 casinos, more than 60 restaurants, and an abundant number of bars and lounges within five blocks in the heart of Las Vegas.

In 2008, 46 percent of the visitors to Las Vegas were attracted to the downtown area with Fremont Street Experience  the primary reason for their visit. Renovations at several hotel/casinos, along with several new restaurants and nightclubs around the Fremont Street Experience, are attracting new and diverse patrons to the downtown area.