Viva Las Vegas: A Trip of Slots, Shopping and Snacks
Welcome to the Jungle
Las Vegas—America’s playground. Sin City. Entertainment Capital of the World. Just a few of the names this casino super highway goes by
Whether you're drawn in by the flashing neon lights, the incredible entertainment, or the endless eateries, Las Vegas is a destination like no other. I recently took yet another trip to Vegas, and decided to document the experience for you this month.
I have been here somewhere in the neighborhood of 70+ trips, so if you can see it or do it in Vegas, I'm your Vegas Google in human form.
Arrival: Stepping Into the Spectacle
The moment you land at Harry Reid International Airport, you know you’re not in Kansas anymore. The ding and bling from slot machines greet you before you even step off the jetbridge.
Pro Tip for the Airport: You can Uber or Lyft of course, but the taxis are all a flat rate to and from the airport to the various hotels/resorts on The Strip. This can save you some time and frustration waiting in the Rideshare location (or trying to find it in your resort).
Where to Stay: Finding the Right Place to Park Your Head for the Night
Vegas has a hotel for every vibe and budget. If you're looking to feel fancy, check out The Cosmopolitan or the brand new FountainBlu. Looking for something low-key, but still a party? Flamingo's got your back. Looking to get the heck away from the Strip? Red Rocks Resort is a personal favorite of mine. They have over 2 acres of swimming pools.
This Trip, we went for a faithful standard, and oddly enough, the first hotel I ever stayed at in Vegas. It's not too busy, not too quiet - The Paris. Rooms are clean and comfortable and occasionally the slots pay out. Nothing crazy...zero tigers in the bathroom...but a good place to call home for a few nights.
The Food Scene: More Than Just Buffets
Vegas is an absolute mecca for finding nom noms, day or night - whether you are looking for a $300 wagyu steak at STK or a cheap margarita in a blinky cup on Fremont Street, this place has it all.
A standard I swear by, Vanderpump a Paris located in Paris hotel. The Truffle Baguette will in fact, change your life for the better. Bonus, their prices probably won't cause a coronary in comparison to some other options. Try the Coq Au Vin Pot Pie and the Creme Brulee Beignets for some extra happiness. Reservations are highly recommended
A few new great finds on this trip in particular that are totally worth checking out:
Pinky's by Vanderpump - located inside the Flamingo. KILLER cocktails and the cutest deviled egg flights you've ever seen. Wear something swanky! Reservations needed
The Golden Tiki - Located in a strip mall, you would never expect what is behind the front door. You immediately feel like you stepped into an episode of Survivor, but with food you didn't have to catch with your bare hands. Fun Tiki drinks and a Surfboard PuPu Platter that you can share with all your friends! Don't forget the Dole Whip!
Herbs & Rye - An off strip steakhouse with a Prohibition Era vibe. A cocktail menu for each decade, based on the popularity of the times. Handmade pastas, and just a fun place to get away from the blinking lights for a minute. A local choice, reservations strongly encouraged.
Pro Tip: Open Table is a quick and easy way to make multiple reservations to the hottest restaurants on and off the strip. Be aware that some hot spots do require a deposit to save your seat, so make sure if your plans change, to update accordingly.
Entertainment: Casinos, Concerts and Marriage - Oh My!
If you have the attention span of a squirrel, this is the place to be. There is an endless amount of entertainment you can get virtually 24 hours a day. Sports betting, concerts, Vegas residencies, magic shows, burlesque shows, comedy shows, you name it, they've got it.
Some of the cooler new spots to hit up:
The Sphere - what could be cooler than a gigantic 360 foot tall golf ball in the middle of the Strip? One that lights up, obviously. It boasts immersive shows and concerts in addition to The Sphere Experience. Coming in at a cost of just over $2.3 BILLION buckaroos, it's worth peaking your head in.
Ole Red - If you've been to it in Nashville, you're getting the same feeling in Las Vegas. A country western 3 level bar with a rooftop stage, made popular by country music's Blake Shelton. We swung in for some live music and had a great time. No reservations accepted, and it's family friendly until 10PM
Fontainebleau - Located directly behind the Las Vegas Convention Center, this stunning new property has some amazing restaurants onsite, along with a beautiful new casino.
Fun Fact: Did you know, over 100,000 couples tie the knot in Las Vegas each year?! It is considered the wedding capital of the world!
Final Thoughts: Cashing Out
Las Vegas is a fun getaway whether you enjoy gambling, eating or just people watching in general. There are endless opportunities to be amazed by what the city has to offer.
Don't forget to cash in those little receipts before you leave and Good Luck!!
If you are looking for more information on planning your vacation reach out to alicia@modetravelagency.com or any of the Mode Girls and we'll be happy to get you there!
Muah 💋
Alicia