CES (Consumer Electronics Show) – Various Venues

CES (Consumers Electronics Show) is one of the most anticipated events in the tech world, bringing together the latest innovations, gadgets, and technology from around the globe. As a long-time resident of Las Vegas, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this event year after year, watching it evolve, grow, and leave its mark on the city. This article is designed to give you an insider’s perspective on CES, with useful tips, interesting information, and a guide to navigating the various venues that host this massive event.

The History and Significance of CES

CES has a storied history, dating back to its inaugural event in 1967. Originally held in New York City, CES has since become synonymous with Las Vegas, where it has been held annually since 1978. Over the decades, CES has evolved from a small trade show into the world’s premier stage for cutting-edge technology. It’s a place where tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Google have unveiled game-changing products, and where startups often find their big break.

For Las Vegas, CES is more than just a convention; it’s a city-wide event that transforms the landscape, fills hotels to capacity, and brings a unique energy to the Strip. The event showcases everything from automotive technology to smart home devices, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. But for those who live here, it’s also a time when our city shines as a hub of innovation and hospitality.

Navigating CES: A Resident’s Tips for First-Timers

The Consumer Electronics Show can be overwhelming, especially for first-time attendees. With multiple venues spread across the city and thousands of exhibitors, it’s easy to feel lost. Here’s how to make the most of your CES experience:

Plan Your Schedule in Advance

• Map out your priorities: CES spans multiple days and covers a wide range of technology sectors. Identify the sessions, keynotes, and exhibitors that are most important to you and plan your schedule around them.
• Use the CES app: The official CES app is an invaluable tool. It provides up-to-date information on events and maps of the venues and allows you to create a personalized schedule.
• Allow for travel time: Las Vegas is known for its sprawling layout, and the CES venues are no different. Whether you’re shuttling between the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) and the Sands Expo or heading to a keynote at a hotel, factor in travel time between locations.

Transportation Tips

• Use the CES shuttles: CES provides complimentary shuttle services between key venues. These shuttles are a convenient way to get around, especially during peak traffic hours.
• Consider the Monorail: The Las Vegas Monorail is another great option, with stops that connect directly to the LVCC and nearby hotels. It’s a fast and efficient way to move between venues without getting caught in traffic.
• Ride-share wisely: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, but during CES, they can be subject to surge pricing and long waits. If you need to use a ride-share, try to schedule rides during off-peak hours.

Where to Eat During CES

Depending on which hotel you are at, there are several options for dining:

Onsite Dining Options:

Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC)

• The Central Café: Located within the Central Hall, this café offers a range of options, from sandwiches to salads and hot meals. If you can find a table, it’s a convenient spot for a sit-down meal.
• The North End Coffee Bar: A great place to grab a quick coffee, pastry, or snack in the North Hall. Perfect for a caffeine boost between sessions.
• The Food Court at South Hall: This food court offers several fast-food options, including pizza, burgers, and Asian cuisine. It’s a popular spot, so it’s advisable to arrive early or during off-peak hours.

Sands Expo and The Venetian

• The Venetian Food Court: Located in the Grand Canal Shoppes, just a short walk from the Sands Expo, this food court offers a variety of options including Chipotle, Panda Express, and a sushi bar. It’s convenient if you’re looking for something quick and close.
• Mercato Della Pescheria: An Italian market-style restaurant within the Venetian, offering fresh seafood, pasta, and salads. A bit more upscale, but great for a longer lunch or dinner.
• Espressamente Illy Café: Located in the Venetian lobby, this café serves high-quality coffee, pastries, and light snacks. It is ideal for a quick break.

Aria Resort & Casino

• Patisserie: Located in the Aria, this French-style bakery offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. It’s a great spot for breakfast or a light lunch.
• Pressed Juicery: For a healthy option, stop by this juice bar for fresh juices, smoothies, and wellness shots to keep you energized throughout the day.
• Five50 Pizza Bar: This casual spot also offers artisanal pizzas and craft beers in Aria. It’s a popular choice for attendees looking to grab a bite in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Park MGM

• Primrose: A café and restaurant offering French-inspired cuisine, from breakfast to dinner. The garden setting is peaceful and a nice retreat from the convention crowds.
• La La Noodle: This Asian-inspired noodle shop at Park MGM is a great choice for a quick but satisfying meal. They offer a variety of noodle dishes, dumplings, and other small plates.
• Side Betty Grill: Located near the Sports Book, this spot offers quick bites like burgers, wings, and salads, perfect for a casual meal between sessions.

Off-site Recommendations

Las Vegas has an incredible dining scene. Consider exploring some local favorites:

Near Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC)

• Gordon Ramsay Burger (Planet Hollywood): Just a short drive or Monorail ride away, this restaurant offers gourmet burgers with unique toppings, truffle fries, and milkshakes. It’s a great spot for a hearty meal after a day of walking the show floor.
• Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge: A classic Vegas establishment located near the LVCC, known for its oversized portions and retro vibe. It’s open 24/7, making it a convenient choice for a late-night meal.
• Tacos El Gordo: Located on the Strip near the LVCC, this popular taco spot offers authentic Mexican street food. It’s fast, delicious, and perfect for a quick bite.

Near Sands Expo and The Venetian

• Bouchon: A French bistro by celebrity chef Thomas Keller, located in The Venetian. Known for its elegant ambiance and classic French dishes, it’s perfect for a more upscale dining experience.
• The Grand Lux Cafe: Also in The Venetian, this cafe offers an extensive menu with everything from pasta to seafood, burgers, and breakfast dishes. It’s a reliable option with something for everyone.
• Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer: Located in The Venetian, this spot is famous for its over-the-top milkshakes and delicious burgers. It’s a fun place to grab a meal with colleagues.

Near Aria Resort & Casino

• Javier’s: Located within Aria, Javier’s serves upscale Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind after a long day.
• Catch: Located in the Aria, this trendy seafood restaurant offers a menu full of photogenic and delicious dishes like sushi, oysters, and lobster mac & cheese. It’s a favorite among the Instagram crowd.
• The Buffet at Aria: For those who want to sample a variety of cuisines, The Buffet at Aria is an excellent choice. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the wide selection and high quality make it worth it.

Near Park MGM

• Eataly Las Vegas: Located in Park MGM, Eataly is an Italian marketplace offering multiple counters and restaurants under one roof. You can enjoy everything from pizza and pasta to gelato and espresso, all made with authentic Italian ingredients.
• Best Friend by Roy Choi: Also in Park MGM, this restaurant combines Korean BBQ with Los Angeles street food, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. The eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout option.
• Primrose: Inside Park MGM, this French-inspired restaurant offers a cozy garden setting with a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a peaceful retreat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Additional Options Around the Strip

• Lotus of Siam: Located slightly off the Strip, Lotus of Siam is a beloved Thai restaurant known for its Northern Thai specialties. It’s a bit further out, but well worth the trip for an authentic and flavorful meal.
• Mon Ami Gabi: Located at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel, this French bistro offers al fresco dining with a view of the Bellagio fountains. It’s a great spot for a relaxing meal with a classic French menu.
• Yardbird Southern Table & Bar: Located in The Venetian, Yardbird offers Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Their fried chicken and biscuits are a must-try.

Dress and Gear

• Comfortable shoes: CES involves a lot of walking. The venues are massive, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the day even with transportation.
• Dress in layers: Las Vegas weather in January can be unpredictable. It’s usually mild, but mornings and evenings can be chilly. The convention centers themselves can vary in temperature, so layering is key.
• Bring a portable charger: With all the tech at CES, you’ll likely be using your phone constantly. A portable charger will keep your devices powered throughout the day.

The Main Venues of CES: What to Expect

CES is spread across several major venues in Las Vegas, each with its own focus and atmosphere. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect at each location:

Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC)

The LVCC is the heart of CES. It’s where you’ll find the largest exhibits and most of the major keynote presentations.

• Tech East: The LVCC is part of the Tech East area, which focuses on innovation in automotive, mobile, and wireless technology. Expect to see major car manufacturers showcasing the latest in electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and connected car ecosystems.
• North, Central, and South Halls: These three halls house a wide variety of exhibits. The Central Hall is often where the biggest brands, like Samsung and Sony, set up shop. The North Hall typically focuses on automotive and transportation technology, while the South Hall is split between startups and established tech firms.
• Access points: The LVCC is accessible via the Monorail (direct stop), shuttle buses, and ride-shares. There’s also plenty of parking, though it fills up fast.

Sands Expo and The Venetian

The Sands Expo, connected to The Venetian hotel, is home to Tech West, which focuses on health and wellness, smart home technology, and wearables.

• Smart Home Marketplace: This is where you’ll find the latest in connected home devices, from smart thermostats to voice-activated assistants.
• Health and Wellness: CES has seen a growing emphasis on health tech, and the Sands Expo is the center of this trend. Expect to see innovations in fitness trackers, medical devices, and digital health platforms.
• Eureka Park: Located in the Sands Expo, Eureka Park is the startup hub of CES. It’s a must-visit if you’re interested in seeing what the next generation of tech innovators is bringing to the table.

Aria, Park MGM, and The Mirage

These hotels host a variety of smaller, more focused exhibits and conferences.

• C-Space at Aria: C-Space is the place to be for those interested in the intersection of technology, marketing, and media. It’s where brands and marketers explore how to engage with consumers in a digital world.
• CES Sports Zone: Hosted at the Aria, this zone focuses on the latest in sports technology, including advancements in eSports, gaming, and fitness tech.
• Conference Tracks: Both Park MGM and The Mirage host various conference tracks, offering deeper dives into specific topics like AI, blockchain, and sustainable tech.

Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems at CES

While the main show floors attract the most attention, some of the most interesting and innovative exhibits can be found off the beaten path. Here’s where to find them:

Startup Pavilions

• Eureka Park: As mentioned earlier, Eureka Park at the Sands Expo is the hub for startups. This is where you’ll find groundbreaking ideas and new products that might not be on the radar of larger companies.
• Country Pavilions: Many countries have their own pavilions within CES, showcasing national startups and tech innovations. Visiting these pavilions is a great way to see what’s happening globally in tech.

Specialized Areas

• The LVCC Central Plaza: Located outside the LVCC, the Central Plaza often features large outdoor exhibits, including vehicle demos, drone displays, and other interactive technology.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): These emerging tech fields have their own dedicated spaces within CES. The LVCC South Hall is typically where you’ll find the most VR/AR exhibits, with opportunities to try out the latest headsets and immersive experiences.

After-Hours Networking

• Official CES events: CES hosts a number of official networking events and parties, which are great opportunities to connect with others in the industry. These events often require RSVPs, so plan ahead.
• Hotel lounges and bars: After a day at CES, many attendees gather at hotel lounges and bars around the Strip. The Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan and Skyfall Lounge at Delano are popular spots for informal networking.
• Private events: Many companies host private parties and events during CES. If you have the right connections, these can be some of the best opportunities to network and unwind.

Making the Most of Your CES Experience

CES is more than just a trade show; it’s an experience that can be as exhausting as it is exhilarating. Here are some final tips to help you make the most of your time at the event:

Take Care of Yourself

• Stay hydrated: Las Vegas is in the desert, and the dry air combined with the hustle and bustle of CES can leave you dehydrated. Carry a water bottle with you and drink regularly.
• Pace yourself: With so much to see, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take breaks when needed, and don’t feel like you have to see everything.
• Get some fresh air: Spending all day in convention centers can be draining. Step outside periodically for some fresh air and a change of scenery.

Explore Beyond CES

• See the sights: If you have time, explore what Las Vegas offers beyond CES. Visit the Bellagio fountains, take a stroll down Fremont Street, or see a show.
• Check out the arts scene: Las Vegas has a burgeoning arts scene, particularly in the Downtown Arts District. It’s a great place to unwind and see a different side of the city.

Capture the Memories

• Photography: CES is a visual feast, so bring a good camera if you can. Just be mindful of any restrictions on photography at certain exhibits.
• Social media: Share your experience on social media using the official CES hashtag. It’s a great way to connect with others and keep up with what’s happening across the event.

The Impact of CES on Las Vegas

CES isn’t just a boon for the tech industry; it’s also a significant event for Las Vegas. The influx of visitors fills hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, providing a substantial economic boost to the city. For residents, CES brings a unique energy and excitement to the Strip, with a noticeable uptick in activity and international presence.

However, CES also presents challenges. The sheer number of attendees can strain the city’s infrastructure, leading to traffic congestion and crowded public spaces. For those who live and work here, it requires a bit of patience and flexibility. But for most Las Vegans, CES is a time of pride—a reminder that our city is a global hub for innovation and cutting-edge technology.

Why CES Matters

As a long-time resident of Las Vegas, I’ve seen CES grow from a niche trade show into a global phenomenon. It’s a testament to the power of technology to shape our world and to Las Vegas’s role in bringing people together. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or just curious about the future, CES offers something for everyone. And for those of us who call Las Vegas home, it’s an annual reminder of the innovation, energy, and diversity that make our city unique.

CES is more than just an event; it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who attend and the city that hosts it. So, if you find yourself in Las Vegas for CES, take a moment to appreciate the city, the people, and the technology that makes this event possible. And who knows? You might just discover something that changes the way you see the world.