Curator’s statement
Every summer Las Vegas plays host to NBA Summer League. It's the perfect time to hit Sin City. When I'm not in the gym watching hoops, I love to bask in the sunshine while lounging poolside with a frozen drink, that is, when I'm not winning at the slot machines or enjoying the nightlife.
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Where to stay in Las Vegas
Encore Las Vegas
A notch above the Strip’s mainstays for its flamboyant style, flawless service and glam new restaurant, Delilah.
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Conrad Las Vegas
Where luxury, entertainment and excitement meet on the famous Las Vegas Strip.
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Delano Las Vegas
Luxury high-rise hotel located on the Las Vegas Strip with monochromatic, intimates rooms.
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Las Vegas
For everything under one roof, this mega hotel on the Strip has a modern style, 2,500 rooms, two pools, 20 restaurants and five bars.
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Things to do in Las Vegas
So you love the NBA but All Star Weekend is a bit out of the budget? I have two words for you: Summer League. The NBA just announced the 2024 dates, July 12-22. Summer League is held at Thomas & Mack Center and the Cox Pavilion at UNLV. You buy a daily ticket and get to watch any and all of the games you want.
Summer League is a showcase of the newly-drafted rookies and other young players trying to break into the league. NBA legends and current stars are on hand to support the young guys, and it’s such a fun atmosphere. The clubs on the strip have top notch entertainment to cater to the crowds. Last year the WNBA hosted its All-Star weekend during Summer League, so it was wall to wall hoops.
This past year the NBA had its first-ever NBA Con event and it was underwhelming, to say the least. I’m a huge NBA fan but it was not well executed at all. NBA, holla at me. Let’s work this thing out, because it’s a great concept and it could be huge. I fully expect NBA Con to be much improved this year, but we’ll see.
For Summer League, you’re likely going to have to Uber or Lyft, as Thomas & Mack is a bit too far to walk from the strip. Just be patient.
I always love to alternate pool days and basketball days during Summer League. Some of my favorite pools include:
Mandalay Bay Beach - Mandalay Bay has a huge pool complex with a full beach and wave pool, several other pools, and a large lazy river.
Stadium Swim at Circa - Not on the strip but 100% worth a visit. If you're in Vegas during a big sporting event, Stadium Swim is the best seat in the house.
Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesar’s Palace - They have swim up blackjack tables. Need I say more?
Flamingo Pools - Fun, vibrant spot, and Pinky’s by Vanderpump is opening this summer. Get there early to find an open chair.
MGM Grand Pool Complex - It has several pools, from adults-only to a lazy river.
ARIA Pools - They have three pools at the ARIA from chill and laid-back to a more fun, party vibe at Liquid Pool. Oh, and don’t miss the boozy Dole Whip.
Park MGM Pools - Several pools with a French Riviera vibe. Super chill spot and they have an excellent cabana setup.
Resorts World - One of the newer resorts in Vegas, Resorts World has a large pool complex with something for everyone.
Places to eat & drink in Las Vegas
Food
Best Friend-Park MGM - A Korean-BBQ fusion spot with an innovative, delicious selection.
Retro by Voltaggio-Mandalay Bay - Super fun menu of nostalgic items from your 1980s youth.
Pink’s Doughnuts-Plaza - At one end of Fremont Street, indulge your sweet tooth. You’ll recognize the Plaza, as it is the casino that inspired Biff’s Pleasure Paradise in Back to the Future II.
In-N-Out Burger - There are several outposts around town, but I love the one on the Paradise Promenade on the Strip.
Peppermill - Old-school diner on the Strip. Bills itself “as Vegas as Vegas gets.”
Battiste’s Hole in the Wall - Right off the Strip behind the Cromwell/Flamingo. Classic Italian spot with large portions of delicious food.
Drink
Alibi-Aria - Speakeasy, upscale lounge in the middle of the Aria. They have private parties for several sporting events, so its hours vary.
Parasol Bar-Wynn - Maybe my new favorite spot to have a cocktail. It’s a small, beautifully appointed bar tucked away in a quiet alcove.
Tom’s Urban-New York, New York - Perfect outdoor bar on the Strip in front of New York, New York. The drinks are good, and the people-watching elite.
Fat Tuesday - I know, I know. It’s a New Orleans frozen daiquiri chain bar. But having a frozen fruity drink in hand while walking the Strip in the summer heat? Absolutely delightful. One day I made it my mission to hit every Fat Tuesday on the Strip, and can confirm that my mission was accomplished.
Need to know
The dates were JUST RELEASED, so reach out to me today to plan your trip!
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Travel Advisor
Becca Fava
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Non-Gambler’s Guide to Vegas.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Las Vegas.