EAST OF THE STRIP. This off-Strip, down n' dirty biker bar attracts an eclectic mix, but locals know it as a place for serious shots, no-frills live punk, and the best jukebox in town. More adventurous types can sample one of the two house specialties: the Bacon Martini (a little grease is a good thing) and Ass Juice, a fabled concoction of several liquors and fruit juice. Goth murals cover the walls, the bar's only stab at decor. If the place itself isn't entertainment enough, pool tables and slot machines stand at the ready.

THE STRIP. Occupying a swank location in the basement of the Barbary Coast, this trendy bar and Art Deco lounge boasts hip, library-like furnishings: bookshelves, cozy sofas, leopard chairs, and tropical plants. Concoctions like the lychee martini are sure to please, but prepare yourself: these drinks don't come cheap. A cozy, candle-lit dining area off the lounge offers Mediterranean-style fare, and entrées range from seven-hour leg of lamb to crab cakes. Each night, a small jazz ensemble entertains audiences with light, soulful grooves.

WEST OF THE STRIP. It isn't far from the Strip, but this local enterprise is a great place to get away from the "tourist" atmosphere and be part of the residential scene. There's a 24-hour kitchen, reasonably priced drinks, and mandatory bar amenities like pool tables, dartboards, plasma-screen TVs, and a dance floor. Every weekend, local bands are the featured entertainment ­ and on "Trauma Tuesdays," there are house DJs.

THE STRIP. If you're looking for personable, heavy-handed bartenders, Famous John's ­ a tiny bar in a strip mall just off Las Vegas Boulevard ­ is the place to go. "Hole in the wall" is an apt description: tables are plastic, and there are only two or three martini glasses in the whole place. But surprise: the bar is actually a prime hangout for low-key locals, and there are excellent bartenders to boot!

THE STRIP. One of the most exclusive clubs in Vegas, the Foundation Room is normally members-only ­ but on Monday nights, its doors are open to non-members. You can only get there via a private elevator, and you must be dressed to impress. Once you've reached the 43rd floor where the club is located, you can enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in the city.