Las Vegas is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. Most people have an idea of what to expect in Vegas even before they arrive. They envision endless gambling, drinking, and partying amongst the splendor of the world’s most extravagant hotels. While some of the rumors surrounding Las Vegas are true, others are just embellishments.

Really, there is much more to Las Vegas than meets the eye. It’s a city of surprises and wonder, where you will experience more than you bargained for. But it is every bit as amazing as it looks. Keep reading to find out which 10 rumors about Vegas are true, and which 10 are totally false.

20 It’s True: You Can’t Hail Taxis On The Strip

Thinking of hailing a taxi on the Strip? Think again. This is one rumor about Las Vegas that is sadly true. It’s super difficult to do this because taxis are only allowed to pick up passengers in certain areas. And in those designated areas, there are always lines of people waiting. It's better to get an Uber.

19 It’s False: Kids Won’t Have Fun There

People tend to think that Las Vegas is just for adults. While there is a lot of entertainment that would only appeal to adults, there is also plenty for kids to do. From shows to attractions to exhibits to pools, there are endless things for younger visitors to enjoy in Las Vegas.

18 It’s True: But It’s Better After You Turn 21

There may be lots for kids to enjoy in Vegas, but there’s no denying that it’s simply more fun when you’re an adult. If you’re planning a trip to Vegas, it’s better to wait until you’ve already turned 21 so you can take full advantage of everything Sin City has to offer.

17 It’s False: The Weather Is Always Hot

Most people associate Vegas with the heat because it’s in the middle of the desert. But it’s actually a misconception that Vegas is hot all the time. Don’t get us wrong: it can get very hot in Vegas. But it can also be cold in the winter months, according to Business Insider.

16 It’s True: The Strip Is Longer Than It Looks

The Strip is so much longer than it looks. You’ll want to take this into account when choosing your accommodation, as it’s not so easy to just walk from one end of the Strip to the other. Because taxis are hard to get, you’ll want to pick somewhere close to most attractions.

15 It’s False: The Only Reason People Go Is To Gamble

The other thing people associate with Vegas, apart from the heat? Gambling. Everybody knows that gambling is legal in Las Vegas, but it’s not the only reason people go there. A lot of people do go to gamble, but some go to see shows, enjoy the attractions, and even take in the surrounding natural landscape.

14 It’s True: There Are Free Drinks Available In The Casino

You may have heard that there are free drinks available in some Vegas casinos. This is totally true! They’re not available to everyone, though. Sometimes you will be offered free drinks in an attempt to keep you gambling. These will usually be offered to you later in the night.

13 It’s False: The Only Food Available Is Buffet Food

There are some truly amazing buffets in Vegas, but that doesn’t mean buffet food is all there is. You can find every kind of food under the sun in Vegas, as well as food for all kinds of budgets. Don’t think you have to spend a fortune eating at buffets.

12 It’s True: You Have To Pay For Photos With Costumed Characters

One of the first things you’ll notice on the Strip is costumed characters posing with people. Remember that you will have to pay to have a photo with them. And if you refuse, you could land yourself in a spot of trouble. It’s better to avoid this unless you’re prepared to pay.

11 It’s False: The Surrounding Area Is Barren

Because Vegas is in the middle of the desert, people assume it’s barren. Even though the surrounding area is dry, there are several amazing natural features nearby, according to Business Insider. You’ll find national parks and canyons, including the Grand Canyon, a mere day trip away.

10 It’s True: You Can Get Free Hotel Rooms In Las Vegas

This is one rumor we’re glad is true! You can get free hotel rooms in Vegas, but you have to kind of be a big shot. Many casino hosts are happy to put you in a room as long as you’re gambling enough and betting enough

There tends to be this assumption that the world’s oldest profession is legal in Las Vegas. That’s just not true. It’s illegal in Clark County, which is where Las Vegas is located. You’ll find other forms of entertainment around the Strip, but that just isn’t legal.

8 It’s True: The Mirage Is Made Of Gold

One of the coolest things about Las Vegas is seeing the mesmerizing hotels. Arguably the most impressive is the Mirage, which really is made of gold. It’s not actually made of melted gold, but the windows are tinted with gold dust, according to Las Vegas Jaunt.

7 It’s False: Nobody Actually Lives There

Las Vegas is a major tourist destination that attracts people from all over the world. It’s hard to believe that there really are people who call it home! The metro area is actually home to 2.2 million people who live and work there (and don’t spend all their time in casinos).

6 It’s True: People Do Live Below The Strip

You might have heard that people live below the Las Vegas Strip. Sadly, this is true. 1,000 people who have nowhere else to go live in the flood tunnels beneath the Strip, just so they can sleep under shelter. They tend to make use of clothing thrown out by other people.

5 It’s False: It’s Impossible To Win At The Casino

Some say that you’ll never win at the casino. While the odds are stacked against you, it’s not impossible to win. Stranger things have happened. But it’s always a good idea to remember that you’re not likely to win big, even though it’s possible. Casinos count on that.

4 It’s True: You Can Legally Drink On The Street

Las Vegas is different from other cities in the United States in that it is actually legal to drink on the street. If you see people walking around with drinks, they’re not breaking the law. Some things are still illegal in Sin City, but this isn’t one of them.

3 It’s False: You Can Drink Absolutely Anywhere You Want

It’s legal to drink on the street, but that doesn’t mean you can drink anywhere you want. For example, you’re not allowed to drink near a church, a school, or a homeless shelter. The container has to be open and can’t be made of glass. No beer bottles allowed.

2 It’s True: The Strip Isn’t Actually In Las Vegas

This blows people’s minds. The Strip isn’t actually in Las Vegas. It’s really located out of the city. So when most people visit Las Vegas, what they really should say is that they’re visiting Clark County and not actually going to the city of Las Vegas.

1 It’s False: The City Is Tacky

Las Vegas tends to have the reputation of being tacky. Although it can seem that way, it’s really not a tacky place. The surrounding landscape is majestic, and as Dentist of Las Vegas points out, the weather is beautiful and tends to stay warm. Plus, many of the buildings are more impressive than tasteless.