Las Vegas: Choosing the Right Experience

Explore the Las Vegas Strip intentionally: I like to experience the Strip by choosing a specific section to walk and explore, taking time for a drink, and actually enjoying the scenery and atmosphere of each area. The Strip is deceptively large, and distances between properties can take much longer than expected. I always recommend planning accordingly, as even short taxi rides between casinos can be time-consuming due to traffic.

Explore downtown Las Vegas: Whenever I want a feel for old-school Las Vegas, I head to Downtown. It’s popular with locals and attracts a different mix of visitors than the Strip, which gives the area a distinct energy. I also find more affordable drink prices and some excellent restaurant and casino options downtown. It’s absolutely worth spending an evening here if you haven’t experienced it—and for some travelers, Downtown ends up being more enjoyable than the Strip itself.

Rent a car and explore beyond the city: When I want a break from the energy of the Strip, I like renting a car for a day and getting outside the city. One of my favorite drives is to Red Rock Canyon, about 17 miles from the Strip, where a scenic 13-mile loop offers striking desert landscapes and a completely different pace from Las Vegas. Another option I enjoy is Mount Charleston, roughly an hour’s drive away, which feels like a true escape with cooler temperatures, beautiful hiking trails, and even a ski resort in the winter. These short drives add balance to a Vegas trip and highlight just how diverse the surrounding landscape can be.

See a concert at the Sphere: If there’s a concert or residency worth seeing during your visit, I highly recommend experiencing a show at the Sphere. I had the opportunity to see U2 during their residency, and it remains one of the most memorable entertainment experiences I’ve had in Las Vegas. The venue itself is unlike anything else, and when paired with the right artist, it can easily become a highlight of the trip.

See Absinthe: If there is one show I consistently recommend in Las Vegas, it’s Absinthe. I’ve seen it multiple times over the years, and the performance has remained sharp, entertaining, and remarkably consistent. The show combines world-class acrobatics with an intimate, high-energy format that feels very different from larger production shows on the Strip. It’s one of the most memorable live entertainment experiences in Las Vegas for travelers looking for something distinctive.

Gamble with intention: Las Vegas was built on gambling, and for many travelers, it’s part of the experience—me included. I always recommend signing up for a player card before putting money into a slot machine or sitting down at a table. Player cards allow casinos to track your play and can open the door to complimentary rooms, discounted rates, or other perks over time. Las Vegas casinos prioritize loyal customers, and using a player card ensures your play or any resort spending is recognized rather than going unnoticed.

Book a hotel with a great pool: If you’re visiting Las Vegas in the spring or summer, I always recommend choosing a hotel with a strong pool scene. The desert heat is real, and having access to a comfortable pool makes a noticeable difference in how enjoyable the trip feels. Some resorts offer DJ-driven pool parties, which can be fun but also tend to be crowded and expensive. Regardless of style, prioritizing a hotel with a well-designed pool is key to staying relaxed and refreshed during warmer months.

Build in time to slow down—especially at a spa: Las Vegas is designed to be high-energy, which is why I like intentionally building in time to slow down. One of my favorite places to do this is the spa at ARIA Resort & Casino, which offers a calm, well-designed environment that feels like a true reset from the pace of the Strip.

Carbone—ARIA Resort & Casino: Carbone is one of my top dining recommendations in Las Vegas, with both the food and service consistently standing out. The veal is a personal favorite, and the carrot cake alone is worth the visit—easily one of the best desserts in the city. The bar team also makes an excellent espresso martini. Reservations are notoriously difficult to secure, so booking well in advance is essential. It’s a higher-end dining experience, but one that genuinely delivers and feels worth the splurge.

Beauty & Essex—The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: Located inside The Cosmopolitan, Beauty & Essex is a restaurant I return to because it consistently delivers. The atmosphere feels intimate and elegant, almost like dining inside a jewelry box, and sets the tone for a memorable evening. The food is excellent across the board, with even the side dishes standing out—the truffle mac and cheese alone is worth ordering. The cocktail program is creative and well-executed, making this a great spot for both dinner and drinks. Reservations book quickly, so I recommend securing one as early as possible.

Skyfall Lounge—W Las Vegas: Located on the 64th floor at the south end of the Strip, Skyfall Lounge is one of my favorite bars in Las Vegas. The views are among the best in the city, offering a sweeping perspective that feels calm and immersive rather than chaotic. The lounge itself has a relaxed, elegant atmosphere, making it easy to relax and take in the lights below. Even the elevator ride and restroom views are memorable. Reservations are highly recommended, as this spot is very popular, and it’s especially worth visiting if you’re staying on the south end of the Strip

The Ski Lodge—The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: The Ski Lodge at The Cosmopolitan is a fun and memorable escape from the typical Las Vegas bar scene. Stepping inside feels like being transported to a rustic alpine lodge, complete with bartenders in ski attire and windows that mimic falling snow. The cocktail menu is creative, the bar staff are attentive and engaging, and the overall atmosphere makes it a great place to take a break from the Strip.

The Egg & I (off-Strip): For a casual, off-Strip breakfast or lunch, I often recommend The Egg & I. It’s a local favorite that draws a neighborhood crowd and offers a relaxed start to the day away from the casino scene. The menu is approachable, and portions are generous, but the standout for me is the chicken-fried steak—easily one of the best in town in my opinion. They also make a solid Bloody Mary, and the seasoning on the breakfast potatoes adds a salty, slightly spicy kick that keeps me coming back. You’ll need a car to get here, or plan on taking an Uber (splitting the ride can help), as it’s located on Sahara, just off the Strip—but it’s well worth the short trip.

Siegel’s 1941: Siegel’s 1941 is a good option if you’re looking for value in Downtown Las Vegas. Styled around the mob-era history of the city, it’s best known for its prime rib dinner special, which is a strong value at $20. The service is straightforward, and the ambiance is simple, but the prime rib delivers for the price. While some of the other menu items feel less compelling relative to the setting, it’s still worth considering if you want a classic Vegas deal and a glimpse into the city’s old-school side.

Best Friend—Park MGM: Best Friend is a restaurant that has consistently exceeded expectations every time I’ve visited. The menu centers on Korean BBQ in a relaxed, playful setting that’s styled like a convenience store, which immediately sets a laid-back tone. The BBQ ribs and slippery shrimp are standout dishes, and the kimchi fried rice is some of the best I’ve had anywhere. If you’re looking for a fun dining experience with excellent food and an atmosphere that doesn’t take itself too seriously, this is an easy place to recommend.

Gran Caffè Milano—Eataly, Park MGM: Gran Caffè Milano is one of my favorite places in Las Vegas for a relaxed yet high-quality Italian meal without the stress of securing a reservation. Located inside Eataly at Park MGM, the sit-down bar offers an intimate setting where it’s easy to enjoy great cocktails, well-executed pasta dishes, and attentive service. The atmosphere makes it easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers while still enjoying a proper dining experience. I make a point to stop here at least once on every Vegas trip.