Las Vegas, Nevada’s pearl in the desert, made famous by many a Hollywood film (The Hangover) as well as the antics of Hunter S. Thompson in Fear and Loathing, is one cracker of a holiday destination. From slot games to roller-coaster rides, spectacular shows to city-sized hotels, the amount of things to do and see in Vegas can often appear overwhelming. That’s why this list, which compiles 9 top travel tips for the city, might just come in handy when it comes to planning a visit.
Stroll Down the Strip
Sin City’s most iconic scenes captured in culture usually happen in or around its 4.2-mile long Las Vegas Strip, the stretch of land reaching down to Las Vegas Boulevard South. As a visitor it’s well worthwhile getting acquainted with some parts of the strip, walking around and experiencing all the sights and sounds as it moves from Paradise to Winchester and then incorporated the heart of Vegas itself.
The Stratosphere
The Stratosphere is home to a ride that begs people to step off a ledge into thin air and let themselves free fall from the 108th floor of the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower. Crazy sounding, even crazier looking, there are other options here all perfect for adrenalin junkies, including Insanity, X-Scream, Big Shot and the aforementioned Skyjump. One of Vegas’ premier accommodation spots too.
Shark Reef
Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is home to Shark Reef, an exotic aquarium offering featuring 1.3 million gallons of water in its main tank, making it the biggest in the whole of the US. Walk through shark tunnel as well as get up close and personal with sawfish, green sea turtles, jellyfish and piranha.
Cirque Du Soleil
Many people visiting Vegas claim that a Cirque show is an absolute must. Their latest extravaganza, Michael Jackson One, combines dance, acrobatics and aerial performances with the legendary hits of the great man himself, including Billy Jean, Bad, Smooth Criminal and Black and White.
Mob Museum
The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, more affectionally known as the ‘Mob Museum’, takes you away from all the glitz and glamour of Vegas and bathes you in a historical background that’s murky at its edges. Featuring real stories and covering events in the history of America’s mob, you’ll learn about the motivations and actions of figures like John Gotti, Bugsy Siegel and Al Capone. Ironically located in a former federal courthouse too.
Vegas Uncork’d
Vegas Uncork’d is an absolute must-attend event for gastronomes and food loving holidaymakers. Taking place in Caesar’s Palace, it’s the ultimate food and wine experience, bringing together celebrity chefs, top sommeliers and the world’s best mixologists.
Buggy Desert Racing
Something a little different, Vegas’ buggy desert racing tours offer people the chance to hop into a custom-built dune buggy and rip it up over the Nellis Dules a little further away from the Strip.
MGM Grand
No trip to Vegas is complete without at least one visit to possibly its most famous hotel and casino, the MGM Grand. This is the place to come if you want to hit the slots, play some poker or try your luck at a whole host of casino favourites.
Fremont Street
Fremont Street takes you back in time to Las Vegas’ relatively recent history. The first paved street in the city, constructed in 1905, pay a visit to Fremont Street during your trip and you’ll see just how far the place has come. Home to a huge open-air pedestrian mall, live entertainment and awe-inspiring graphic shows, Fremont is worth saving for last.
