Weekend in Sin City: Las Vegas

Sites

One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas is just take a stroll to take in the sites and sounds and people watch. Whether you’re staying near the strip or in the downtown area the lights, architecture, and street entertainment are plentiful. If you’re out walking the strip, make sure to stop in to the Bellagio where you can watch the famous fountain show or check out their stunning seasonal garden in the Conservatory. A 20-minute drive off strip is the Fremont Street Experience with live music, outdoor bars, affordable dining options and a nearby container park.

Shows

A great way to spend an evening in Las Vegas is at a live show. Check out celebrity residencies in town where you’ll need tickets way in advance to nightly comedy clubs or Cirque du Soleil shows where you can often grab tickets the same day. Tip: there are many ways to get discounted show tickets through tour providers. Whether you’re there as a couple or a group of friends, I recommend the Tournament of Kings dinner theater at Excalibur, you’re sure to have a laugh while cheering for your favorite Knight.

Gamble (Duh)

Of course, the minute you step off the plane in Las Vegas you’ll be greeted with infinite options for gambling if that’s your thing. Most resort casinos are open 24 hours, and if you’re looking for lower minimums I recommend venturing off the strip. If you want to learn how to play, check out Casino Quest inside Fashion Show Mall where real dealers will teach you how to play without risking your money.

Pools

Did you know that you can access many of the resort pools in Las Vegas without being a guest? Depending on the time of year, a day by the pool is a day very well spent in Las Vegas. Most every hotel has a unique pool to lounge or swim and you can get passes online if you want to branch out of your hotel. Or you could level up your experience at a day club like Marquee at the Cosmopolitan. For a truly unique sports experience head to Circa in Downtown Las Vegas for Stadium Swim a collection of pools facing a giant 40-foot high definition screen to catch the game.

Spa

In between late nights one of my favorite things to do is treat myself to a spa day. My personal favorite spa is Canyon Ranch at The Venetian resort. It’s the largest day spa in north america, and before and after your treatment you’re invited to indulge in their many amenities like sauna and steam, a salt cave, meditation rooms, etc to keep your zen going.

Luxury Shopping

Las Vegas is filled with high end retail, mostly on the strip within the resorts themselves. Stroll the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian, The Forum Shops at Cesar’s Palace, The Galleria at Aria, and many more options featuring luxury designer brands.

Nightlife

New York may be the city that never sleeps but Las Vegas knows how to hang. If you want to take advantage of the incredible nightlife in Las Vegas, I recommend finding a club promoter that can help hook you and your group up with free entry. For a full service experience for a group, rent a party bus through a company like Discreet Transportation Party Bus. These busses have a club atmosphere with lighting and sound systems and will keep the party going between venues.

Nature

If you need to sweat it out a little, there is some wonderful Hiking within an hour of the strip. I don’t recommend getting out if you’re in the heat of summer, but when the temperature is more mild, hiking is a great way to see the nearby nature like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire.

Day trips

Grand Canyon
For a complete change of scenery, a day trip to the Grand Canyon is a very popular option from Las Vegas. It's under a five hour drive from the strip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, and there are many tour operators who will offer round trip transportation from your hotel. Or you could opt to rent a car and make the drive yourself to maximize your time and enjoy the scenic drive.

High End Dining

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a wonderful meal and get dressed to the nines, the Las Vegas strip has many many options. Don’t forget to check the dress code! Here are a few I rate highly: Lakeside at the Wynn is a great Seafood restaurant that also gives you a front row seat to a unique show. Top of the World at the Strat Hotel has amazing views of both the strip and Fremont Street. Cathedrale at Aria french mediterranean food and an amazing dessert menu.

Brunch

I love to brunch, and luckily so does Las Vegas. If you’re looking for an all you can eat buffet brunch, the MGM Grand has one of the best with a bottomless mimosa optional add on. If you want true decadence, Lago at the Bellagio offers a three course brunch that starts with a basket of fresh pastries. My personal favorite is Kassi Beach House at the Virgin Hotel, their brunch menu is vast and ask for a table by the pool for a unique vibe.

Unique Eats

When I’m traveling I like to treat myself and Las Vegas has many indulgences. Visit Black Tap at the Venetian for giant milkshakes that are big enough to be a whole meal. Hidden on the third floor of the Cosmopolitan is my favorite late night spot, Secret Pizza. Lastly I don’t make a trip to Las Vegas without visiting Eataly at the Park MGM. What feels like endless options for food, drinks, and sweets, what’s not to love?

Speakeasies

Las Vegas has many Hidden Gems, but few as hidden as its speakeasies. Some require a password or are truly a trick to find. I’m hoping to try them all, but here are a few I’ve had a chance to visit that I highly recommend: Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den at Resorts World, Mas Por Favor Taqueria & Tequila, and Easy’s at Aria.