Although Las Vegas may have been made famous by its bright lights and high rollers, this buzzing city has more to offer than sin. Not all visitors are drawn to Vegas by the promise of big winnings; some prefer to sample a different side to the city, and there is plenty on offer, including things even the locals love to do.
To avoid the casinos, it may be sensible to book a hotel that doesn’t include gambling facilities. The luxurious Signature at MGM Grand is just a stones throw from the strip but doesn’t feature a casino. If you really wanted to though you could still play online at somewhere like ParrotCasino. The Signature offers all suites in varying sizes, many with dazzling views. The Trump International Hotel Las Vegas also features massive suites, Italian marble bathrooms and a full-service spa on site, without the accompanying casino. For those wishing to spend a little less, the Travelodge Las Vegas South Strip is centrally located and features cable TV, complimentary continental breakfast and a year-round outdoor pool to swim in. Many of the hotels on the strip feature extensive spa services; use the money you’ll have saved by avoiding the casinos to treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering.
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Be sure to catch a show. Las Vegas is alive every night with huge entertainment, no gambling necessary. From comedians like Chris Rock, magicians like David Copperfield, musicals, operas and huge musical acts like Celine Dion, there is something on show in Vegas to suit every taste. Cirque du Soleil features incredible acrobatics for a mind-blowing visual experience, and nostalgic chorus girl productions are still available across the strip. If theatre isn’t your thing, try some of the many museums and art galleries around the city to soak up some culture. The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Arts is a great example and is currently showing an extensive collection of pop artist Andy Warhol’s work. There’s no excuse to be bored in Vegas.
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Check out the Fremont Street Experience. Although this area may be famous for its hotels and casinos, the spectacle to behold every night is worth catching even if you’re not attracted to the poker tables. Over 2 million lights and 28 speakers come together every evening to create a show that stretches from dusk until midnight and will provide huge entertainment for the whole family.
Las Vegas is rich with some of the most diverse, adventurous cuisine in the country, often at a decent price, so get your fill of what the city has to offer. The hotels often feature huge buffets of great food with a huge variety of choices, but also be sure to explore the city further for its culinary delights. There are plenty of famous, high-class options like the strip’s Mon Ami Gabi and Commander’s Palace, but you can find less pricey and equally delicious options further afield. Take a cab to Lotus of Siam and you’ll sample excellent and authentic Thai cuisine, or try out the Rat Packs’ favourite steak at Golden Steer Steak House. For big cocktails and even bigger breakfasts, The Peppermill is a local and tourist favorite. There’s something for everyone’s tastebuds in Vegas.
Sin City has a great deal to offer in terms of its location; shuttles are often available from your hotel to a variety of beautiful spots for sightseeing outside of the city. Get outside for nearby hikes and outdoor adventures, maybe play some golf, or visit some of the local national treasures like Red Rock Canyon and National Conservation Area or Grand Canyon National Park. Plan your trip carefully and this could be a great opportunity to see the natural beauty that Nevada has to offer, not just the dark and expensive confines of the casino.
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