• There are things people may not know about what it's like to live in Las Vegas, Nevada.

• Many residents don't visit the Strip, as the local arts and food scene is already great.

• There are a lot of scenic hikes in the area for people of all experience levels.

Las Vegas, Nevada, may be known for its casinos and glamour, but it's also the place I grew up.

From hidden gems to the local food scene, here are some surprising things about living in this tourist hub:

Despite the incentives offered to them, locals tend to stay away from the Strip

Spanning South Las Vegas Boulevard, the Strip, which was featured in "The Hangover" (2009), is one of the most recognizable parts of Vegas.

Though for some locals, visiting the Strip is too much. The traffic can be awful and the area isn't all that integrated into your daily life unless you work in tourism.

Many restaurants, clubs, and shows will offer discounts for residents, but the boom in local culture and entertainment has provided a sanctuary for those of us who want to relax and avoid resort fees and belligerent tourists.

Meow Wolf's Omega Mart is a local favorite — and I'm surprised more tourists don't check it out

People who've driven through Las Vegas have probably seen the whimsical, mysterious billboards for Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, an interactive art installation set up as a surreal supermarket.

I saw so much advertising that I thought it had to be too good to be true, but you have to experience it to believe it.

Located inside the AREA15 building, Omega Mart is a local favorite that I think more tourists should check out. It's sort of a hybrid of an art gallery, museum, and escape room. Plus it has giant, indoor slides.

Gambling is also a part of local Vegas culture

In my experience, many locals still like to unwind and enjoy Vegas, even if they stay away from the Strip. The city is sprinkled with resorts that boast fine dining, shows, and other attractions specifically catered to residents.

(editor：)