All the touristy crap aside, where else are you going to get sucha great view of the city. It gives one a different perspective of the landscape. And it's just plain fun trying to orient yourself to your location.
I thought I'd be more perturbed by the stores and performers, but found them interesting and entertaining. Must have been the 'whacky tourist' watching I was doing. I did find the food areas problematic, but that's Vegas style aggravations exclusive to the strip.
Picka good day and it won't be overly crowded. Just be prepared to walk. I'd say go in on the side farthest away from the strip to lessen the zig-zaggy pedestrian thing. Good for at least one visit if you're a local.