Las Vegas: My Second Home and Your Next Destination

"Why Las Vegas?" 

Trust me, I've heard it all over the past 20+ years: "You don't drink, you don't gamble, Vegas isn't your thing..." Well, I've been changing minds longer than some of you have been alive. Though I may be getting older in another state, that doesn't mean I don't know what's happening in Vegas life - it's been my second home for at least two decades.

I'm more up-to-date with Vegas restaurants than those in my own hometown these days it seems. I've been trying to move there permanently since before the pandemic, and at this point, they should just give me honorary residency because I'm there about every other month.

The Vegas Series Begins

Obviously, I can't give you a complete Vegas overview in one blog post. Will I drip-feed you content over a month? A season? A year? Let's see how this flows. What I can give you is the best of the best - the experiences that never disappoint.

Confession: my favorite thing to do in Vegas is eat. If you're a foodie or someone who aspires to be one, this is your destination. How could I live on a coast and yet have the best crab legs of my life in Vegas? Maestro's Ocean Club at Crystals delivers fluffy, buttery heaven alongside those Instagram-worthy smoky dry ice cocktails. Not to be outdone by Ocean Prime just a stone's throw away.

"But aren't those chains?" you might ask. Hate to break it to you, but not all chains are created equal. Case in point: my #1 most recommended restaurant ever - Vic & Anthony's at the Golden Nugget. It took me YEARS before I finally brought a group there circa 2014 because, yes, a chain steakhouse in downtown old Vegas seemed questionable. I was seriously mistaken.

For the past decade, I've made it a point to dine there at least once during my birthday week and literally any other time I can sneak in a dinner - whether I'm there for an event, a conference, or flying solo. They're probably the reason I won't give up red meat completely, and their wine list is to die for. (Please tell me y'all know I know my wine, right?) 

Beyond the Dining Scene

The shows?!? Before I get to the really good stuff, let me say this: my favorite Cirque shows aren't necessarily the top-tier headliners (though those are great in their own right). I completely understand why Blue Man Group has been around for over two decades, and I'm hoping to catch Absinthe again soon.

Let's talk museums. Everyone's different, but I love history and lights, so the Neon Museum boneyard tour - especially at night - has been a favorite for years. Do the Mob Museum and hit the underground Speakeasy while you're at it.

The Quick Vegas Hit

I was recently asked by someone with a 6-hour layover what to show a Vegas first-timer. That was tough because you need to account for travel time to and from the airport, plus the never-ending construction reality of Vegas. Here's what I recommended:

Take a car directly from the airport to the High Roller at the Linq Promenade. If you're over 21 and willing to have a drink, I highly recommend the High Roller Happy Half Hour - open bar for the 30-minute adventure with a much better vibe than the regular excursion. You can see SO much of Las Vegas from that height, including the Bellagio fountains. It's a must. I probably have eight photos from there during annual celebrations.

After the High Roller, walk across to the Bellagio and visit their Conservatory of Flowers that changes every season. If you're looking to gamble, the less expensive hotels like Harrah's and Flamingo might be in your favor. If you're looking for some more higher end tables with a lux vibe, the Wynn, Cosmopolitan, and Venetian are all within walking distance. With more time? I absolutely suggest hitting Fremont Street at night—the Golden Nugget has that famous pool with a water slide through a shark tank (called The Tank!), and the Zoomline on SlotZilla is currently the best zipline experience in Vegas, IMO.

What's Coming Next

Don't just take my word for these recommendations - but definitely hit me up to see what would be best for YOU! In the future I'll be diving deep into everything that makes Vegas the perfect destination for both wellness escapes and unforgettable incentive experiences. Yes, you read that right - Vegas wellness is absolutely a thing, and I can't wait to show you how. Get ready for some serious Vegas insider knowledge from your girl who's been loving this city for 25+ years.

What aspect of Vegas are you most curious about? Drop me a line—I'd love to hear what you want to explore first!