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FAMILY ACTIVITIES
This family friendly water park is under construction and already selling season passes. It is scheduled to open in 2013. It’ll be located in the Summerlin area.
Have some fun and get a little exercise at the same time. Lots of special events 2 locations and fun! fun! fun!
Zipline- Downtown Fremont Street
Weeeeee. Soar through the air under the Fremont canopy. Some height and weight restrictions apply.
Great place to enjoy rides especially in the summer when it’s just too hot to be outside. Pay by the ride or get an all day pass. Note: In October it turns into Fright Dome for some super scary fun.
Real circus acts, trapeeze artists, clowns, acrobats etc. FREE. There is also a Midway with lots of carnival games. Not free, but fun.
The Chuck Jones Experience – Circus Circus
Chuck Jones is the legendary animator who brought to life Bugs Bunny, Wile E. Coyote, Pepe Le Pew and Porky Pig to name but a few. This interactive experience shows you how animation was done “back in the day”.
A ride is just a ride, but put it on the top of the tallest building in Las Vegas and you’ve got a thrill ride you’ll never forget!
Stratosphere Free fall Zipline
The next best thing to actual skydiving, take a step off the ledge 108 stories high on a controlled freefall zipline.
Can’t make it to Venice? Take a ride in the Gondolas at the Venetian. Singing Gondola Captain included.
Hot Air Balloon Rides smilerides.com viator.com
Up, up and away!! Float through the air for a romantic view of our beautiful Las Vegas.
Springs Preserve & Nevada State Museum
This is one of my favorite picks for families. Lots of interactive exhibits make this an interesting and fun place for kids as well as grown-ups. Check their schedule before you go so you can plan for the different activities and events they may be offering. They do lots of crafts with kids and you wouldn’t want to miss out on them. The Nevada State Museum is now a part of the Springs Preserve for even more things to see and learn about.
A ghost town that has a Saloon, a daily gunfight and a hanging is must for every visitor. Petting zoo is great for kids and don’t forget the train ride.
Lots of trails to hike or bike and the change in temperature is a welcome change especially in summer. We really like the Mary Jane Falls hike, pretty easy. It’s best in late spring to early summer when the snow is melting and the falls are running. The Cathedral Rock is another hike that’s a good one for the whole family. Amazing scenic view at the top.
Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort
This local Ski Resort is just a short ride away and you can get a ride to and from the Resort for a small fee from several convenient locations. Check the website for details.
If your old enough to remember what life was like before video games, this place is a blast from the past. As for our younger friends, what a trip to see what Mom and Dad did for fun back in the day. All the machines are up and running for your pinball pleasure and it’s really cheap!
Grab a Kart and start racing!
Fun ride. Great view. Take lots of pictures.
Disc Golf
This is a fun activity for the whole family that’s really inexpensive. All you need is a “Frisbee” or similar disc, and a list of where to find the courses in Las Vegas. The courses are in public parks and are free. If you can throw a “Frisbee”, you can play disc golf. You can play at Sunset Park 2601 E. Sunset Rd at Sunset and Eastern, or Mountain Crest Park 4701 N. Durango at Durango and Red Coach.
Simulates skydiving by using a giant “fan” to keep you floating on air.
Not miniature golf. This putting course is a series of “real” greens that are very challenging for serious golfers, but still fun for the youngsters.
Arcade games, video games, rock climbing and more. Game Works has it all.
Horseback Riding bonniesprings.com or vegashorsebacktours.com or Mount CharlestonTrailRides.com
Check out the beautiful desert landscape on horseback.
Kiss Monster Mini-Golf Opening March 15, 2012.
Laser Tag laserquest.com Adventuredome
You have got to play laser tag at least once in your life. Once you get the gear on, I dare you not to go Arnold and say…….”I’ll be back”. It’s just a great time.
Every kid wants to bounce on a trampoline and every parent is afraid they’ll fall off. Solution…….Flippin Out. An indoor gymnasium with floors that are all a series of trampolines for you to bounce to your heart’s content and it’s not just for kids.
Race around the track in your mini Grand Prix car. It’s laps of fun. (Can’t believe I said that.) It also has an arcade, party space, a giant slide, and some other kiddie rides. You can get a large pizza for $5.00!
Bike tours, rides and events, rentals……. they’ve got it all.
Lied Discovery Children’s Museum
This is an amazing place and it’s not just for kids. There are all kinds of hands on exhibits to explore that open children’s minds to the excitement of discovery and learning. They have a lot of projects that you won’t want your child to miss. Be sure to check their website for a list of what projects are being offered so you can plan for the best visit possible.
The Desperado….only the bravest ride this bad boy. It’s one of the top 10 roller coasters in the US. While you’re there check out the Log Flume ride and the Turbo Drop too. There is also the first 3-D High Def Digital Projection Motion Ride and the Frog Hopper for the little guys. More rides…….more fun.
We don’t have any major league teams in Las Vegas, but we do have two Minor League teams. The Las Vegas Wranglers are our hockey team. The games are held at the Orleans Arena, the tickets are cheap, and it’s fun to watch.
The 51′s, as in Area 51, are Las Vegas’ minor league baseball team. The games are held at Cashman field and are very inexpensive. Take the whole family out. There are many “specials” throughout the season so check the schedule. You wouldn’t want to miss $2.00 beer night or “Bring your Dog” to the game night either.
The Vegas RC Raceway
Bring your kids, or just have fun like a kid and race remote control cars at this amazing indoor raceway. Located at 3420 N. Rancho call (702) 684-7223
ADULT ACTIVITIES
Just because you’re all grown up doesn’t mean you can’t still play in the sandbox. Big boys….big toys. Climb aboard a real bulldozer and let the fun begin!
Never drove a Lamborghini?! Take one for a spin around the track and feel the thrill of driving a high speed luxury automobile. Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Porsches also available.
Mario Andretti Racing Experience
The World’s Fastest Driving Experience! Drive Indy-style race cars like a pro and live out your NASCAR dreams.
I haven’t got the nerve, but if you do make your reservation and JUMP!
Are you Top Gun material? Make your reservations and find out. This is a really unique experience. Go for it!
Stripper Lessons
Add some spice to your life and take a Strip Tease lesson at Stripper 101 inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood or try Night School 4 Girls at the Excaliber and let the pole dancing begin! Women of all ages, shapes and sizes are welcome. Get your sexy on! Great for bachelorette parties.
Blood and guts. What else needs to be said? Put your crime solving abilities to the test at this interactive, hands on experience.
Gun/Rifle Range lasvegasgunrange.net americanshooters.com thegunstorelasvegas.com machinegunsvegas.com
What’s a trip out west without a little gun fire? Check out these ranges for some target practice with a variety of guns to choose from.
Paintball Las Vegas Premier Paintball Combat Zone Paintball Bonehead Paintball (indoor field)
Cowboys and Indians…….the grown up version.
Are you a grown-up game geek? Then this is the place for you!! All kinds of video games, DJ and a bar. Very unique. Game On!
Swingers Club- Dueling Pianos & Miniature Golf
This place wins the award (from me) for “Cheesiest Bar” in Vegas, which makes it a must see. It’s actually a lot of fun.
Come on down!! Here’s your chance to take part in a stage version of “The Price is Right”.
Swim with the Sharks- Mandalay Bay
Come to the desert and swim with sharks! Ironic but possible.
Dolphin Trainer for a Day- Mirage
This is an amazing experience. If you love dolphins, (I call dolphins sea dogs) treat yourself to something you’ll remember forever.
Comedy Clubs
There are many in town and you can always use a laugh. Here’s a few to check out. Brad Garrets Comedy Club (opening on March 30 2012 at the MGM Grand), Improv Comedy Club at Harrah’s, Sin City Comedy at “V” Theater in Planet Hollywood, and the Riviera Comedy Club at the Riviera (voted best comedy club 6 years in a row).
Lots of wall to climb at various levels of difficulty. Fun, safe and you won’t have to cut your hand off (see movie “127 Hours” about Aron Ralston) which is always a plus.
Piss on the Berlin Wall- Main Street Station
Are you proud to be an American? Do you detest Communism? Do you want to make a political statement? Then go to the Men’s Room inside Main Street Station and piss on the Berlin Wall. No joke. They actually have a piece of the Berlin Wall in the Men’s Restroom with urinals attached to it. Sorry Ladies. There isn’t one in the Woman’s Restroom, but if you ask security they’ll wait till the Men’s Room clears out and let you in for a look.
Night Club Tour- Nite Tours nitetourslasvegas.com also check caesars.com/allnightpass
Stays in Vegas average about 3 days. There are so many clubs and lounges in Las Vegas that it is impossible to cover them all in 3 days. Make the most of your night club time and do a tour that will keep you out of long lines and hop from club to club.
If you’re a wine enthusiast you will enjoy the Hostil Grape. Over 160 wines to taste using a pre-paid tasting card in their innovative dispensing system. The pours are one, three, or five onces. Check for events and entertainment schedules. Rock n Roll Fridays are fun. The M may be a little out-of-the-way but is a beautiful property.
SIGHTSEEING/SHOWS
Love, love, love the Fountains. Romantic, beautiful, and free. For the best experience view it from the street facing the hotel.
The ideas and designs they come up with never fail to impress. From polar bears made of white carnations, to giant pumpkins and cornucopia filled with autumns harvest. Whatever the theme you’ll be amazed. Changes seasonally.
Displays of art from some of the finest artists in the world.
Bellagio Lobby Ceiling – Dale Chiluli Blown Glass
This hand blown sculpture has over 2,000 glass blossoms created by Dale Chiluli, whose works have been exhibited in every major museum in the world.
Jean Phillipe Chocolate Fountain- Bellagio
How can anybody resist a chocolate fountain? Lots of delicious cookies, cakes, chocolates, crepes and more by award winning Chef Jean Phillipe.
Caesars Forum Shops- The Statue Show
Listen to the story of Atlantis as the statues come to life in the Forum Shops. It’s really cool.
This was the first big hotel attraction in Las Vegas and started a trend that changed the look of The Strip forever. It’s been revamped and upgraded and is still a great attraction to see.
Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden- Mirage
See the beautiful and majestic white tigers, white lions, panthers, and leopards. There is also a family of Bottlenose Dolphins and they have a new calf!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again……..hot chicks on pirate ships. Be there. It’s a great show that takes place out front of TI and it’s FREE.
The best thing about Madam Tussauds is the photo op. Go one on one with Shaq. Chill with Hugh Hefner. Marry George Clooney, or do as I did…….poke Simon in the eye! It’s a great time and a lot of laughs.
The best view of Las Vegas in town, day or night. Night time is my favorite.
Stop in the information center and check out the exhibits and then take the scenic drive or do a hike and have your camera ready. Beautiful scenery and wildlife is all around you.
Spring Mountain Ranch/Super Summer Theater
Every June, July, August, and sometimes September local theater groups put on a musical at Super Summer Theater which located at Spring Mountain Ranch. The tickets are cheaper than it is for a movie ticket and you’re seeing a live show!! The Ranch is a historical site, and there is a picnic area and a wide open lawn and trees for shade. Read our article for more info and check the web for upcoming shows.
This is a fun place to check out. There are more versions of M&M’s here than you can imagine. How about white chocolate M&M’s or custom printed M&M’s? You’ll see M&M’s in 22 different colors! Great gifts to take back home. Open daily 9am – 12 midnight. Located next door to the MGM Grand on the Strip near Tropicana.
Magic Show
Las Vegas is a magical city. See a magic show while you’re here. There are shows available in the afternoon and evening. Nathan Burton Comedy Magic at the Flamingo is awesome. (Check for FREE ticket coupons in Las Vegas Quick Guide, available at most hotel lobbies). Penn & Teller at the Rio is a Las Vegas staple and be sure to check The Mac King Comedy Magic Show at Harrah’s for a great time and a great bargain.
Fountain Show at Miracle Mile Shops
Located within Planet Hollywood, the Miracle Mile shops have more than just great shopping going on. You’ve got to check out the free Fountain Show at the center of the shops which runs on the hour from noon until 11pm everyday and something we don’t see to often…..a rainstorm! The Rainstorm takes place near Tommy Bahama and is complete with thunder, lightning, fog and pouring rain.
Shark Reef Aquarium Mandalay Bay
Check out all the fishies in this cool aquarium.
Whether you’re a car nut or not you’ll enjoy this exhibit. Old cars, collector cars, famous cars, race cars…..it’s just fun.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Gardens
See how these delicious chocolates are made in a tour through the factory that ends with a sweet treat. The cactus gardens surround the factory. Just follow the trail, but be CAREFUL. Cactus barbs are painful. Seriously.
One of the most amazing feats of engineering ever achieved. The Dam tour is very interesting.
A very pleasant way to spend the day. Cruise around Lake Meade and see the Big Horn Sheep (if you’re lucky) and experience the Dam from the other side.
Rent a boat, a Pontoon, or Skidoos, and cruise Lake Meade on your own. Don’t want to go on the Lake? Bring some popcorn and feed the fish from the dock. It’s crazy fun. The fish are huge and they practically jump out of the water to get some popcorn. They will take it right out of your hand! The kids will love it.
The light and water show at the Wynn is beautiful. Have a cocktail lakeside and watch the show which runs nightly.
Go to the MGM for a close up look at the lions as they lounge around their habitat. Beautiful animals.
One of the best free shows in Las Vegas, the Fremont Experience is a must see. Shows run nightly on the hour. When the light show is over dance your way down Fremont Street to the music of the live bands performing classic rock at one of three stages. It’s one big party!
This laser light show is yet another free attraction in Las Vegas. It has been newly revamped for the first time since it debuted in 1994 and is better than ever. The show runs three times nightly and lasts 15 minutes. It’ll have a winter make-over at the end of November for the holidays.
The Show in the Sky is a Mardi Gras celebration from the ceiling with music, dancing, and lots of beads.
Titanic Artifacts Exhibition- The Luxor
This is a very interesting historical exhibit of the largest collection of artifacts from the Titanic.
Bodies- The Exhibition- The Luxor
You could take every show in Las Vegas and roll them all into one big extravaganza and it wouldn’t compare to the wonders of the human body. We have all heard that before but seeing it is just amazing. Don’t miss this.
Jubilee Backstage Tour- Bally’s
A rare opportunity to get a behind the scenes look at the world of the show girls.
A scary topic, but a very interesting experience. Like it or not it’s a big part of the history of Nevada and the United States. Don’t miss it.
C’mon! Who doesn’t want to check out the home to some of the best Alien stories ever?!
Take a ride and get all the wise guy info about Vegas and the Mob.
Only in Vegas. Located Downtown this new museum will become a Las Vegas icon in no time. Loads of photos, memorabilia, and artifacts. Note: Some content is gruesome and not recommended for young children.
This is such a fun way to spend a Friday. I wish this event occurred more often than the first Friday of every month. Lots of art to enjoy in every form you can imagine. Have a glass of wine and walk through the many galleries. The people that attend the event are as much a part of the show as the art.
For a unique table games experience go to the Imperial Palace and be dealt a hand by Elvis, Shakira, or Pink look-a-likes who also perform. It’s a fun crazy concept that is “totally Vegas”.
Better than the “Antique Road Show.” Bring your stuff and see what it’s worth at the home of the hit show “Pawn Stars”.
Fried Twinkies/Fried Oreos- Mermaids
Everybody needs to try a Fried Twinkie! Go to Mermaids Downtown and eat’em up!
Carroll Shelby Museum- Speedway
A must see for race fans. The home of legendary Shelby race cars.
Ferrari/Maserati Showroom- Wynn
Extravagant cars at an extravagant hotel. This showroom sells more cars than any other Ferrari/ Maserati showroom in the country.
Las Vegas Natural History Museum
Everybody loves a dinosaur. Visit this museum for all kinds of interesting and fun exhibits. Check the website for a money saving coupon.
Come out to see the stars! In the sky, not the clubs.
Rock n Roll Memorabilia- Hard Rock Hotel
The Hard Rock is always a fun place to be, especially for music fans. There is an amazing display of memorabilia from famous artists throughout the hotel that is always changing. Take a stroll and get some pictures.
Neil Leifer Gallery- Caesars Forum Shops
Sports fans should put this on their must see list while in Las Vegas. Some of the most famous sports photos are displayed here; Ali standing over a fallen Sonny Liston, Secretariat winning the Derby, and JFK with LBJ after throwing out the first pitch of the 1961 baseball season.
Las Vegas Welcome Sign
This sign is recognized all over the world. No trip to Vegas would be complete without a photo of yourself with the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” in the background.
World’s Largest Golden Nugget- Golden Nugget
This gold nugget is incredibly large, but what’s more amazing is how and where it was found. If you get a touch of “gold fever” after viewing the nugget, you can buy yourself a gold bar at the vending machine close buy. FYI, it only takes cash. Seriously.
Million Dollar Display- Horseshoe
Get a look at $1,000,000 up close and personal. Another great photo op.
” The museum was created between a partnership of a Preacher and a Pornographer and was founded in 2008. It’s designed to preserve wonders of the erotic imagination as depicted through the artistic expression of acts of sex and love…” Unique and interesting.
This state park is a place where you can camp, hike, picnic and explore. There are Indian petroglyphs that are 3,000 years old! Beautiful scenery. Be sure to go to the visitor center first.
The wildlife habitat is home to……..Pink Flamingos of course. It also has turtles, swans, ducks, koi, and goldfish.
This is a great little get-away; over night or just for the day. They have lots of events, restaurants, and boutique shops. There’s a small casino; the Montalago and two very nice hotels, Loew’s and Ravella within this little village on the lake. Read about our stay. Check out Harry’s and Sunset and Vines for delicious food at bargain prices.
This is a place to explore. Home to the Timbisha Shoshone people and many plants and animals in some of the harshest desert terrain. Take one of the guided tours offered by the park Rangers and enjoy the adventure.
Las Vegas Open Top Bus Tours
There are more fender benders on the Strip than anywhere else is this town. Why? Because everyone is trying to drive and sightsee at the same time! Save yourself the insurance hassle and do it right. Get on the top deck of the Double Decker open top bus that will take you up and down the Strip for the best view possible of all the glitz, glamor, and neon on the most famous street in the world! Try these. Hop-On-Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour or Open Top Sightseeing Tour or Las Vegas Double-Decker Bus of the Stars. Go at night for the best experience.
Delicious restaurants, fun bars, designer shopping, a movie theater, play ground and lots of events……this is a one stop that has everything you need for a day or night out, except a hotel or casino. Don’t panic. There are plenty of hotels and casinos close by.
If a little culture is what you crave the Smith Center is your destination. Opening in March of 2012, it will be host to some of Broadway’s best shows. I can’t wait to see Wicked! The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is scheduled to appear, Yo-Yo Ma, the Las Vegas Philharmonic, and many other amazing performers. Check listings for all upcoming performances. Most shows have tickets on sale now.
The District at Green Valley Ranch
Ride the Carousel (it’s free), shop, dine, outdoor movies (free from May through October) and be entertained at this fabulous location. There’s something for everyone.
SHOPPING
Bass Pro Shop at The Silverton
If you take your hunting and fishing serious, you’ve got to check out the Bass Pro Shop. This store is a sportsman’s fantasy come true.
Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood
A very hip, fun place to shop. Lots of places to grab a bite, have a cocktail, people watch and have a blast.
This is a huge mall. It’s impossible to see everything in one day. It also has restaurants and a food court.
Lots of great buys on designer labels and is located Downtown.
More designer labels at a discount at the far south end of Las Vegas Blvd.
It’s a bit of a drive but worth it for the Neiman Marcus Last Call outlet alone. Have your credit cards ready!!
Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace
Great restaurants, upscale shopping and more.
More great designer stores in a very contemporary setting.
Upscale shopping with great atmosphere and terrific restaurants.
Don’t forget about shooting a machine gun in the world’s first ultra lounge gun range : Machine Guns Vegas. Free transportation and private instruction in an upscale venue.