What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, right? What if you still want to enjoy the lights and energy of the oasis in the desert, but the late night club scene or high roller poker room are not your vibe? In addition to the world class entertainment and headliners who take up residency at The Strip, there are some off the beaten path attractions and sights that make it worth the trip. Here's my guide to getting the most out of your trip to Sin City.
Day 1 - The Strip |
Even if you are not gambling, it is worth spending some time on The Strip. I like to fuel up for a full day with a good, hearty breakfast and in the land of buffets, you have lots of options. The Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan tops the charts. As one of the most popular buffet breakfasts, it is worth getting there early. Whether you are a traditionalist and head for the omelette station or prefer more of a lunch menu and opt for the mac 'n cheese, you will be pleased with the selection and meticulous, artful plating.
After breakfast, you have a variety of options to fill the day. If you want one of the best views of The Strip, head to the High Roller, the world's tallest observation deck. You can sip cocktails while enjoying a bird's eye view. If you prefer to stay with two feet planted on the ground, it's worth wandering over to the Venetian for a gondola ride. Finally, if you prefer off-the-beaten path, hit up the Pinball Hall of Fame. These nostalgic arcade games span eras of history and pop culture and, at 25 cents each, a steal on The Strip. As an added bonus, the famous Las Vegas sign is right across the street for that gotta have selfie. You can also continue on to the Seven Magic Mountains art installation 10 miles south of The Strip. The 30 to 35 foot dayglow boulders are in stunning contrast to the desert and mountains that surround them, becoming an iconic part, yet jarring, addition to the landscape.
When you need a quick mid-afternoon snack (and cocktail!), why not have it with a view of the Bellagio fountains? Alexxa Sangria Bar at the Paris Hotel has you is the place. When the fountains are not dancing, you will also have a front row seat to top-notch people watching.
Almost every celebrity chef has a restaurant on Las Vegas Boulevard, so you will have your pick by the time dinner roles around. For a casual option, Best Friend by Roy Choi is a must-try. It is a whole vibe - from the menu, that includes his signature Kogi short rib tacos, the street corn and kimchi friend rice, to the DJ that spins a millennial mix on Saturday nights. For a more upscale dining experience, walk through pawn shop storefront to Beauty & Essex. This swanky bar and restaurant has a menu created by Chopped Judge and TAO Group Executive Chef, Chris Santos. The cocktail menu is full of inventive spirits and for dinner you will find both small and large plates intended for sharing. No meal is complete without trying the signature grilled cheese, smoked bacon and tomato soup dumplings.
A day on The Strip is not complete without experiencing the world-class entertainment. One of the best magic shows on the strip happens in The Magician's Study. Visitors hoping to get into the exclusive show, must RSVP to obtain the secret codeword to purchase tickets. The location of the show is kept secret until the day of the performance and the show itself takes place in a hidden location. Once in The Study, the magician's identity is revealed and guests are kept captivated by the rabbit's sleight of hand and cheeky personality.
Post show visit the Skyfall Lounge for a classy night cap vibe with incredible views from the south end of The Strip. (Insider Tip: In the ladies' restroom, use the very last stall....seriously!)
After breakfast, you have a variety of options to fill the day. If you want one of the best views of The Strip, head to the High Roller, the world's tallest observation deck. You can sip cocktails while enjoying a bird's eye view. If you prefer to stay with two feet planted on the ground, it's worth wandering over to the Venetian for a gondola ride. Finally, if you prefer off-the-beaten path, hit up the Pinball Hall of Fame. These nostalgic arcade games span eras of history and pop culture and, at 25 cents each, a steal on The Strip. As an added bonus, the famous Las Vegas sign is right across the street for that gotta have selfie. You can also continue on to the Seven Magic Mountains art installation 10 miles south of The Strip. The 30 to 35 foot dayglow boulders are in stunning contrast to the desert and mountains that surround them, becoming an iconic part, yet jarring, addition to the landscape.
When you need a quick mid-afternoon snack (and cocktail!), why not have it with a view of the Bellagio fountains? Alexxa Sangria Bar at the Paris Hotel has you is the place. When the fountains are not dancing, you will also have a front row seat to top-notch people watching.
Almost every celebrity chef has a restaurant on Las Vegas Boulevard, so you will have your pick by the time dinner roles around. For a casual option, Best Friend by Roy Choi is a must-try. It is a whole vibe - from the menu, that includes his signature Kogi short rib tacos, the street corn and kimchi friend rice, to the DJ that spins a millennial mix on Saturday nights. For a more upscale dining experience, walk through pawn shop storefront to Beauty & Essex. This swanky bar and restaurant has a menu created by Chopped Judge and TAO Group Executive Chef, Chris Santos. The cocktail menu is full of inventive spirits and for dinner you will find both small and large plates intended for sharing. No meal is complete without trying the signature grilled cheese, smoked bacon and tomato soup dumplings.
A day on The Strip is not complete without experiencing the world-class entertainment. One of the best magic shows on the strip happens in The Magician's Study. Visitors hoping to get into the exclusive show, must RSVP to obtain the secret codeword to purchase tickets. The location of the show is kept secret until the day of the performance and the show itself takes place in a hidden location. Once in The Study, the magician's identity is revealed and guests are kept captivated by the rabbit's sleight of hand and cheeky personality.
Post show visit the Skyfall Lounge for a classy night cap vibe with incredible views from the south end of The Strip. (Insider Tip: In the ladies' restroom, use the very last stall....seriously!)
Day 2 - Downtown
The history of Las Vegas and how it emerged as the oasis in the desert is fascinating. Downtown Las Vegas will transport you back to the Wild Wild West and provide a full day of activities. The breakfast and restaurant options of The Strip are plentiful. Therapy is perfect for a bottomless mimosa brunch and their lobster grilled cheese or french toast with fruit compote. A low-key coffeehouse breakfast can be found at PublicUs. They have an impressive list of signature coffee drinks and a menu that includes the classics with a twist and a pastry case full of sweet treats.
Next, head over to The Mob Museum, the National Museum for Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. As you make your way through three floors of exhibits, you will be immersed in the history of organized crime, law enforcement and how the two converged in Las Vegas. The Mob Museum also offers add-on experiences like the hands on crime lab or firearms simulation. As the Era of Prohibition allowed the mob to flourish, the museum also has its own speakeasy and operating distillery, which can be toured by the 21 and over daily. Some of the exhibits are graphic - being a mobster is not all glitz and glam - so that should be considered when determining whether to bring the young ones.
Once you have sharpened your skills as a member of the mob (or law enforcement), head over to the Fremont Street Experience. The Fremont Street Experience is a seven block entertainment district complete with the world's largest video screen that comes to life every night. There are also three stages of entertainment throughout and an endless stream of street performers. For those who want a view from above, take a ride on Slotzilla.
Lastly, swing by the Neon Museum for an up close look at the nostalgic neon signs of the Las Vegas Strip. The Neon Museum Boneyard is filled with the iconic relics that have graced Las Vegas Boulevard. The Sahara Desert, Stardust, Riviera, Desert Inn and Ceaser’s Palace signs are just a few of exhibits on display in the Boneyard. The Neon Museum is most spectacular at night and it is becoming a popular attraction, so tickets should be purchased in advanced.
Next, head over to The Mob Museum, the National Museum for Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. As you make your way through three floors of exhibits, you will be immersed in the history of organized crime, law enforcement and how the two converged in Las Vegas. The Mob Museum also offers add-on experiences like the hands on crime lab or firearms simulation. As the Era of Prohibition allowed the mob to flourish, the museum also has its own speakeasy and operating distillery, which can be toured by the 21 and over daily. Some of the exhibits are graphic - being a mobster is not all glitz and glam - so that should be considered when determining whether to bring the young ones.
Once you have sharpened your skills as a member of the mob (or law enforcement), head over to the Fremont Street Experience. The Fremont Street Experience is a seven block entertainment district complete with the world's largest video screen that comes to life every night. There are also three stages of entertainment throughout and an endless stream of street performers. For those who want a view from above, take a ride on Slotzilla.
Lastly, swing by the Neon Museum for an up close look at the nostalgic neon signs of the Las Vegas Strip. The Neon Museum Boneyard is filled with the iconic relics that have graced Las Vegas Boulevard. The Sahara Desert, Stardust, Riviera, Desert Inn and Ceaser’s Palace signs are just a few of exhibits on display in the Boneyard. The Neon Museum is most spectacular at night and it is becoming a popular attraction, so tickets should be purchased in advanced.
Day 3 - Hoover Dam
Lastly, a short 30 minute drive out of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam. An engineering masterpiece that remains a symbol of the American spirit, it is worth taking the short detour out of Las Vegas. Straddling the border of Nevada and Arizona, the Hoover Dam provides water and energy to Southern California, Nevada and Arizona. Each of the 48 contiguous states contributed to its creation, so there is an overwhelming sense of pride as you tour the dam.
The hour long Dam Tour takes you through the power plant on the Nevada side and the opportunity to walk through the inside of dam. Fun Fact -, the Hoover Dam is self sustaining, meaning tax dollars are not used for the operation and maintenance of the dam. In 2010, the Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge opened and provides another breathtaking view for pedestrians - the bridge was constructed such that the dam is not visible to drivers to prevent congestion on the bridge, yet another example of engineering genius.
On your way to or from Hoover Dam, do not pass up the opportunity for a quick stop in Boulder City. The Coffee Cup is the perfect small town diner to grab breakfast or lunch before you head back to the bright lights of Las Vegas or on to your next destination!
The hour long Dam Tour takes you through the power plant on the Nevada side and the opportunity to walk through the inside of dam. Fun Fact -, the Hoover Dam is self sustaining, meaning tax dollars are not used for the operation and maintenance of the dam. In 2010, the Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge opened and provides another breathtaking view for pedestrians - the bridge was constructed such that the dam is not visible to drivers to prevent congestion on the bridge, yet another example of engineering genius.
On your way to or from Hoover Dam, do not pass up the opportunity for a quick stop in Boulder City. The Coffee Cup is the perfect small town diner to grab breakfast or lunch before you head back to the bright lights of Las Vegas or on to your next destination!
