"Whatever happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

You've heard the expression over and over again. Part of the reason for this cryptic line has to do with having some experiences in the city of lights that you'd rather not have others know about. However, when you know what to expect when you visit Vegas and are prepared you can have the kind of experience that you want everyone else to know about. Here are 9 Las Vegas travel tips and secrets that can help you to get the most out of your Vegas vacation.

1.) It's Not All Gambling.

Of course, Vegas is known for giving you the ability to gain a lot of money as you tempt Lady Luck but there are tons more to see when you're there. Take advantage of some of their amazing spa treatments with steam rooms, whirlpools, and saunas!

2.) Don't Take A Taxi Unless You Have To.

Taxis are expensive so if you're planning to stay in a hotel, use the airport shuttle service they provide. Taxis are metered and the driver will take the longest possible route to get to your destination, thus costing you a fortune.

3.) It's A City That Truly Never Sleeps.

You'll be surprised to discover that some of the best entertainment are held during the week and not on the weekends. The best time to be in Vegas is in the middle of the week. You get great shows without the crowds.

4.) They Have A Thriving Art Scene.

Vegas has a real life Art District south of Fremont. On the first Friday of every month, shops and galleries stay open late and it's a party all night long.

5.) Start Your Day With A Pleasant Memory.

While most people are looking for an evening out for dinner at a fine dining restaurant, Vegas has some awesome places to eat for breakfast.

6.) Lake Mead.

For nature lovers this is one of the coolest of the 9 Las Vegas travel tips and secrets. If you will be in Vegas for more than a weekend, take a break from all the big lights and nonstop action and some time to relax at Lake Mead for a day. Las Vegas sits in a desert and the summers can get extremely hot. There's no better way to cool off than a nice cool dip in this manmade lake that powers the Hoover Dam. You can rent your own boat, jump on a pair of jet skis, or take out a kayak and unwind on the water. Take in the unique view of the lake sitting amidst the beautiful Mojave Desert, a major contrast against the unrelenting Las Vegas night.

7.) Mandalay Bay's Aquarium.

This is one of the few aquariums in the entire world that allow SCUBA certified guests to actually go inside the shark tanks and swim with the sharks. Bet you won't get a thrill like that from the Roulette Table.

8.) The Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

How would you like to get behind the wheel of a 600HP NASCAR stock car and take it for a spin? You'll have the choice of driving yourself around the track or riding shotgun with a pro instructor/driver.

9.) Go Back To School.

The last of the 9 Las Vegas travel tips and secrets is the Sommelier-led wine classes taught at the local mixology school. Instead of going home and boasting about your winnings or crying about your losses, you can actually take a bit of Vegas back with you as you learn to train your palate to discern even the finest quality of wines.