USA, Nevada, Las Vegas, The strip at night. (Photo by: Prisma by Dukas/Universal Images Group via ... [+]
Las Vegas has long been a mecca for travelers seeking excitement, glitz, glamor, and world-class entertainment. Visitors don’t have to stay a long time to get in a lot of fun. According to a new survey from the discount travel website Hotwire, Las Vegas tops its list as the best major metropolis for a quick getaway. That’s based on the value, convenience, and leisure activities the city offers visitors.
Neha Parikh, the president of Hotwire, shared with me, “We considered more than 10,000 data points across 250 cities to find those destinations that are the most budget-friendly, are easy to get to and minimize travel time, and that are, of course, fun. We weren't surprised when Las Vegas topped the list of our large, metropolitan cities.”
Among the reasons that Las Vegas is probably tops with visitors who are searching for a quick, last-minute trip? It has a convenient airport. Entertainment is plentiful around-the-clock, and it has enough variety that everyone can find something that interests them in the city. It also has more hotel rooms that any other city on earth. Parikh pointed out that Hotwire often has deals on luxury hotels in Sin City. She added, “The real fun of Vegas is to then use those saved funds toward all the exciting food and show options in town.”
If you are considering your own short getaway to Las Vegas, consider these tips for having the most fun while you’re in the Entertainment Capital of the World.
Go Early in the Week for the Best Deals
Las Vegas is busiest during the weekend, so it’s ideal to have a short getaway between Monday and Thursday. That can save you hundreds of dollars. Also, the overall trip can be more joyful because you won’t have to battle such large crowds on your way to live the good life.
Make a Pit Stop for Group Photos
Short trips can also be short on photos. Don’t make the mistake of leaving the city without capturing some of the fun. Some Instagram-worthy places to stop for photos include the Contemporary Arts Center, the Fabulous Las Vegas sign, and the Venetian.
Try Blackout Dining for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Las Vegas is home to many unique dining experiences, but Blackout Dining in the Dark is a dinner experience like no other. You will be dining on a multiple-course, plant-based meal in the dark, but that doesn’t begin to cover what this fun sensory experience is all about. It must be tried to be believed.
Fit in a Museum Visit
Las Vegas has several museums that are underrated. Take the time to visit at least one! Some worthwhile museums include the Neon Museum, the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, the Nevada State Museum, the Mob Museum, or Zak Bagan’s The Haunted Museum.
Catch a Comedy Show
The comedy shows in Vegas are world-class. Get last-minute tickets to a show at the Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club or the Brooklyn Bowl at the LINQ Promenade. Go for something unusual with a funny variety show OPIUM at The Cosmopolitan. The Comedy Cellar and the Laugh Factor Las Vegas often feature wonderful comedians, too.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Stop by Cinnaholic, the first gourmet cinnamon roll bakery, for a sweet treat. You can get more than just cinnamon rolls there, too. (But those are custom-made and to-die-for!) Be sure to try their homemade cookie dough. It’s egg-free, so it’s always safe to eat. Also make time for a cookie, brownie, cupcake, or confection from the Veganbites Bakery on Eastern Avenue.
Take a Walk on the Adventurous Side
When you’re only there for a few days, you have less time to second-guess your sense of adventure. Try zip lining down Fremont Street at Slotzilla. Be awed by the beauty of the city at night with a night flight with Maverick Helicopters. Step outside the city for some lovely views at Red Rock Canyon.
