Tourists from New York have shared their thoughts on Blackpool after hearing how the seaside resort is commonly referred to as the ‘Las Vegas of the North’ – and they only had good things to say
When visiting England, most tourists make a beeline for London due to its history, culture and endless activities. But two New Yorkers decided to add Blackpool to their list to compare its similarities to Sin City after hearing how it’s described as the “Las Vegas of the North”.
When exploring its sights, tourists Max and Max bumped into TikTok user @AWalkOnTheWildSideTV who asked them about their visit. He said: “I’m here with Max and Max from New York – so what you doing here guys?” In response, the tourist said: “We’re checking out Blackpool. We’re seeing the sights with the man himself [points at AWalkOnTheWildSideTV].” But there was one thing that took them both by surprise – Blackpool’s deep history.
Max added: “We’re not used to cities with such rich history as this in the US. When was it named? 1602. It’s unbelievable and it’s beautiful. We’re loving it.”
Blackpool received its name in the Medieval ages from a discoloured steam that drained through peatland, creating a black pool where it met the sea.
The name first appeared in a baptismal register for the Bispham parish, with the modern spelling Blackpool, in 1602.
The seaside town has been a hotspot for tourists ever since the 18th century when sea bathing gained popularity for his health benefits.
In more recent times, it has become known as ‘Las Vegas of the North’ due to its lively nightlife, bright lights, extensive slot arcades and reputation for entertainment.
Now, it attracts around 20 million tourists annually, according to a STEAM report that measures attendance at events, visitor attraction numbers, and occupancy levels at hotels.
Commenting on his video, one user said: “It must be rewarding meeting people who are tourists from abroad not only that you could bump into a celebrity.”
Another user added: “Keep up the good work, mate. Post more videos, they are amazing.”
A third user said: “It was lovely that Max and Max wanted to meet you. I know you enjoyed meeting them.”
On his channel, AWalkOnTheWildSideTV, whose real name is Stevie, shares a glimpse of every day life in Blackpool as well as documenting notable events – such as when the Typhoon and C-17 Globemaster took off from the seaside town.
In one of his most-viewed videos, he showed off an “epic Blackpool sunset”, saying even the police spotted to take in the breathtaking view.
One user added: “The best sunsets are in Blackpool, this one is a beauty.” Another user said: “Don’t care what anyone says, Blackpool is magical.”
Someone said: “Blackpool has the best sunsets in the world.” A final user said: “I live near the front and run most nights looking at this.”