Las Vegas has been known for decades as “Sin City.” But we prefer the destination’s lesser-used nickname: “America’s Playground.” The glitz, glamor and neon are still there if you need them, but Vegas is so much more than casinos (and it’s a much more family friendly destination than you might think). Below, we’ve gathered some of the best things to do in Las Vegas, along with where to eat, shop and play. And by taking advantage of RedWeek’s inventory of Las Vegas vacation rentals, you’ll enjoy first-class accommodations at lower rates.
Things To Do In Las Vegas
- Cirque du Soleil: When you’re in Vegas, you’ve got to see a show. Your options are virtually endless, from Adele to the Blue Man Group, from magicians to comedians. But for a show that is guaranteed to please everyone in your crew, Cirque du Soleil won’t disappoint. The awe-inspiring blend of music, dance and acrobatics is simply unforgettable.
- Valley of Fire State Park: Las Vegas is an underrated outdoor adventure destination. Just a short drive from the city, the 40,000-acre Valley of Fire State Park features hiking trails that weave between massive red-rock sandstone monoliths. As you trek through the park, keep an eye out for Native American petroglyphs, some of which date back more than 2,000 years.
- High Roller: It’s nonstop excitement in Las Vegas — but sometimes you need to get above it all. Say hello to High Roller, the world’s second-largest Ferris wheel. It takes riders 550 feet up for a dazzling panoramic view of the city and beyond.
- Area 15: From the same team that brought you Santa Fe’s unique Meow Wolf, the multimedia Area 15 is an otherworldly mix of art, amusement and music. It’s an immersive attraction that is designed for exploration; each time you visit, it’ll be wildly different. Just keep an open mind and go with the flow …
The Best Las Vegas Restaurants
- Peppermill Restaurant and Lounge: For a Las Vegas breakfast that will get your day off to a great start, try the iconic Peppermill. Actually, you could begin and end your day here — it’s open 24 hours. Whenever you find yourself at this local favorite spot on the Strip, you’ll enjoy hearty dishes made with fresh ingredients.
- Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse: Get a taste of Las Vegas’ old school glamour at this classic steakhouse, where the food and cocktails are fit for Frank Sinatra. The restaurant even features the Count House, its very own speakeasy, which serves small plates and expertly mixed drinks in a vintage-style setting.
- Bacchanal Buffet: Buffets are a casino staple — but the 25,000-square-foot Bacchanal Buffet at Caesar’s Palace is not your typical buffet. Here, you’ll choose your meal from nine show kitchens that whip up more than 500 dishes daily, showcasing flavors from all over the world.
Where To Shop In Las Vegas
- Fashion Show Las Vegas: This expansive shopping center on the Las Vegas Strip offers almost two million square feet of chic retail and dining space. You’ll browse more than 200 shops (including such big names as Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue) and enjoy live fashion shows on an 80-foot runway. Good to know: Fashion Show Las Vegas is a dog-friendly mall.
- Grand Canal Shoppes: Stretching over a quarter mile in the Venetian Resort, the Grand Canal Shoppes transport you to Venice, Italy, complete with singing gondoliers floating along sparkling waterways. The shopping options include everything from rare books to luxury jewelry.
- Miracle Mile Shops: You’ll get your steps in while shopping on the Miracle Mile, which spans 1.2 miles and more than 150 stores. Top brands like Fossil and H&M can be found here, along exclusive offerings, including cosmetics favorite Morphe’s only U.S. location and the much sought-after fashion/décor innovators Desigual.
Where To Stay In Las Vegas
- Marriott’s Grand Chateau: Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, the Grand Chateau takes its inspiration from the elegance of southern France, offering spacious villas and a rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views.
- Elara by Hilton Grand Vacations: Also right on the Strip, Elara delivers the comfort and amenities that the Hilton Grand Vacations brand has become known for, including private pool cabanas, a stylish lounge/bar and well-appointed suites.
- Tahiti Village: This luxury five-star resort offers one- and two-bedroom Las Vegas vacation rentals set amidst a 27-acre wonderland that draws from Polynesian art, architecture and landscapes.
Start planning your Las Vegas vacation with RedWeek now.
