Las Vegas City Guide
Las Vegas is a mesmerizing city with entertainment options for all ages, restaurants with cuisines from all over the world to fit any budget, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Here’s a great guide on what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in Vegas:
table of contents
What to do?
Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a fun non-profit attraction dedicated to preserving vintage neon art signs and is also a fantastic exhibition of old school typography and sign craftsmanship.
Take a walk throughout the boneyard and experience a bit of classic old-fashioned Vegas. Also, the Neon Museum limits the number of visits per hour which makes the experience feel way more personal than most museums. You are always paired with a guide that will tell you the stories behind all the signs and will help you find the best photo opportunities on site.
Seven Magic Mountains
Ever seen modern art in the middle of the desert? This is your chance!
Created by the Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, Seven Magic Mountains is a colorful and fun art piece sitting in the middle of the desert. They are located off a paved road a quick drive outside of Las Vegas. It’s great for photography but often gets quite busy as the day goes on. Plan to come in the early morning if you want to avoid crowds.
See a show
You should see at least one show while you are in town.
Since Las Vegas really knows how to entertain and offers something for everybody - you can really choose from an endless variety of comedy, music, magic or dance. Let your soul be filled with color, sparkle and rhythm!
Our Favorite Shows:
The High Roller
Europe may have the London Eye – but Las Vegas has The High Roller.
Do you want to see a spectacular sunset above the Vegas strip? Hop on a sunset ride on the giant 550-foot tall ferris wheel. Each cabin holds up to 40 people and can optionally be equipped with an open bar. The rides take about 30 minutes with stunning 360 views of Sin City. '
If you are more of a twinkle-lights type of person, night rides are also available.
Experience Nature
Valley of Fire
Las Vegas is surrounded by a lot of natural beauty.
Make sure to get out of town for a gorgeous hike at least once. Right outside town you’ll find Red Rock Canyon - a popular local spot. There you can choose your adventure: hike, mountain bike or climb. Experience nature without the crowds and big tour buses.
Another favorite day trip is the Valley of Fire (pictured above), which is about 1 hour away. The park gets its name from the gorgeous red and orange sandstone rock formations that are a feast for the eyes to observe. Many hiking and camping options are available.
For either of the Parks, plan to start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and beat the afternoon desert heat. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the beautiful and unique views.
Shop, shop, shop
Las Vegas is the ultimate shopping destination with a variety and density of retailers that can’t be beat.
Here are some of our favorite places to shop:
Shops at the Forum
Prepare to be amazed! This place is so much more than a shopping center - it’s an experience.
Start by taking a picture at the grand replica of the Trevi Fountain!
After that, proceed to the main entrance which is just a few steps down from the fountain. I recommend this entrance because of it’s wow factor - you are greeted by a grand vista of shops that are three levels high, gold and glass Italian style domes, painted ceilings of Italian artwork, and restaurants. If you didn’t know you were in Vegas, you’d probably think you were somewhere in Italy!
Take your time to stroll the promenades to soak in the Italy feel. Pop in to MCM to get your fix of the latest and greatest luxury fashion and then walk across to Sephora for a make-up touch up and bright lipstick.
The Shops at Crystals
Are you a lover of modern minimalism?
If you are, then definitely plan to visit The Shops at Crystals. The architecture of this shopping center is reminiscent of a beautiful modern art museum and has the creme de la creme of luxury fashion.
Get a fabulous pair of shoes at Aquazzura, relax while getting a hydrating facial at the high-end cosmetics brand Sisley, and indulge your craving for surf n turf at the Maestro’s Ocean Club restaurant. Everyday can be a day well spent at the Shops at Crystals.
Insider’s tip: The Louis Vuitton store at Crystals is the owner of the largest privately owned light installation by James Turrell. To see the outstanding art piece you’ll need to contact the store and make an appointment. If you want to be sure to secure a spot (they only allow 6 people at a time inside the light installation) call one or two months ahead of time. It’s definitely worth it! The best way to describe it would be sensory deprivation by way of light manipulation!
Las Vegas North Premium Outlets
Who doesn’t love a good bargain?
Visit the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets and shop at 180 stores offering branded products like Coach, Kate Spade, 7 For All Mankind, Adidas, A|X Armani Exchange, Dolce and Gabbana and so much more with savings from 25-65 percent off.
The mall is designed as an outdoor walking street letting you enjoy sunshine and fresh air in between stores. If you get hungry there are plenty of food options to choose from but I’d recommend going over to Shake Shake to get a yummy burger and milkshake!
Where to stay?
I’ve created a more comprehensive guide on the 9 best places to stay in Vegas here. But feel free to check out a couple of hotels below too!
The venetian
The Venetian, a 5 star all-suite resort, is a beautifully orchestrated clone of that dreamy city in Italy.
There are certain angles from the front of the hotel that if I didn't tell you I was in Vegas, you'd swear it was Venice! Be prepared to be swept away by the ornately painted ceiling in the lobby and the grand hallway. In addition - since all the rooms are suites, they are generally larger than most rooms in Vegas.
Waldorf astoria
Only one of eleven Forbes Triple 5 Star properties in the world, the Waldorf Astoria prides itself on having the ultimate in luxury and elegance.
One of the first things I noticed during my stay here was how uncrowded it felt, even during high season. You're able to get immediate attention to any problem or request you have - something that might be lacking at other crowded Vegas properties. You can also spoil yourself silly at Pierre Gagnaire's restaurant or at the famous Spa.
Where to eat?
Vegas has countless food and dessert options!
Also, when you plan your meals don't just look at the Strip - some of the best bites in town are located beyond the glitz of the Strip.
Some of our favorites: