Blackjack. Shots at Sunset. Stage glamour and hedonism. Probably the things you associate most with Vegas, right? Well, you’re not wrong. But, as I discovered on my very first trip to the casino capital of the world, there’s a lot more to the strip than meets the eye – and plenty to see beyond it.
Check out: Our guide to daylife in Las Vegas
While Vegas might be best known for its nightlife and entertainment, I was surprised to find that the destination is fast becoming a meeting point for adventurers who want to experience the great outdoors. It seems counter-intuitive. You don’t expect to visit Vegas for its stunning scenery. And yet, situated in the heart of a valley in the Mojave Desert, the surrounding terrain offers plenty in the way of pleasing landscapes. You only have to look out the window of a high-floor hotel room to see. My first two nights, spent at the iconic Paris Las Vegas, offered a glimpse all the way out to Red Rock Canyon, even on a hazy day.
A thrill seekers guide to Las Vegas
Reach your peak potential at Red Rock Canyon
To truly appreciate the majesty of undulating peaks of Red Rock Canyon, you have to be prepared to leave the strip. It’s surprisingly reachable, at only an hour’s drive from the heart of Vegas, with stunning views along the journey. For arguably the best ride to the rock, our group enlisted Pink Jeep Tours for what promised to be a thrilling off-roading experience up into the mountains. We were not disappointed. Firstly, it does what it says on the tin.
Ensconced in a hot pink Jeep Wrangler worthy of Barbie, we rumbled along the 13-mile drive towards the Calico Hills. The sudden transition from wide sandy lanes in sunny spring to roller-coastering on narrow rocky roads along snow-capped ridges was a shock to the system, but a delight to the adrenalin junkie in me. While not for the faint-hearted, it’s a solid adventure for thrill-seekers and city-folk alike. We even spotted a bachelorette party in a neighbouring Jeep as we swerved a corner.
Hoover Dam, that’s good
If heights are not your forte, an alternative – but equally intrepid – option is a visit to the Hoover Dam, followed by a gentle bob along the Colorado River with Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures. This interstate excursion, starting at the 221m Dam in Nevada and ending at Willow Beach in Arizona, gives you exclusive access to views from below the Hoover Dam that are otherwise off-limits to the public. It’s an extraordinary way to view the majestic feat of engineering that is the Hoover Dam from below. The scenic route through the Black Canyon national water trail brings your closer to nature, providing a relaxing experience over clear waters.
Aaannnnd breathe in Awana Spa
If relaxation is what you’re after, then there’s an unbeatable way to unwind – at Awana Spa in Resorts World Las Vegas, where I spent my final couple of nights. This beautiful, spotless spa has soothing rooms filled with ambient lights and music, including a heated crystal laconium room, tepidarium loungers and an experiential rain walk. The three-hour Fountain of Youth spa pass welcomes both hotel residents and external guests, and visitors can also book rejuvenating massages or facials while there.
For something a little more energising, the state-of-the-art fitness centre at The Cosmopolitan offers a thorough work-out in the shape of its Sweat60 HIIT class. The boot-camp style session will prepare you for guilt-free indulgence at Wicked Spoon, where the weekend brunch buffet is an unmissable culinary experience of world cuisine. We’re talking all-you-can-eat crab, sushi, pancakes, pastries and more. By Vegas rates, it’s extremely reasonably priced, at $49pp, with the option to add bottomless mimosas, champagne, beer or Bloody Marys for an additional $24. It’s also one of the most popular brunch destinations on the Strip. Be sure to plan adequate time for it – it’s likely one of the most gluttonous meals you’ll have in Vegas.
Eat all the food
Foodies are well catered to in Vegas. With visitors from all over the world, the gastronomy offerings are plentiful and wide-ranging. From plant-based Mediterranean menus at Crossroads to hearty nose-to-tail delights at Harvest, there’s something to tempt every palate. I was particularly drawn to Bar Zazu, with its chic, quirky décor and heavenly menu curated by female executive chef Nicole Brisson. Or, to enjoy a trip around the world via your tastebuds, book a night out with Savors of the Strip by Lip Smacking Foodie Tours, which is the ultimate foodie experience to be had. It’s the best way to bypass the long waiting lists at book-out spots like Javier’s and Julian Serrano Tapas. Word of warning: I anticipated that we would have a different course at each of the three exclusive restaurants on the itinerary. In fact, it was a multiple course menu AT EACH. Go on an empty stomach is what I’m saying.
As seen on stage: Cirque du Soleil
For most, gallivanting up a mountain or down a river followed by a spa day or foodie tour would be enough to call it a day. But this is Vegas and, as the sun sets, the Strip comes to life. You simply cannot visit Vegas without sampling its entertainment scene. I will forever be grateful I had the chance to see O by Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio while in town. Performed over an engineered stage that transforms into a pool, it is hands-down the most breath-taking show I have ever seen in my life. With a cast of acrobats, contortionists and synchronised swimmers (all in one!) you will be overwhelmed by talent, not to mention the genius of the stage design. It’s a show I would go all the way back to Las Vegas just to see again.
Sports events have also become a huge attraction in recent years. While Las Vegas has long been home to the Raiders and has welcomed many a boxing champion, its next feat will be hosting the Grand Prix in November. This highly-anticipated F1 championship event will take place on a temporary street circuit that includes the Las Vegas Boulevard. While tickets are like gold dust, the atmosphere alone will prove irresistible to racing enthusiasts.
I rounded off my Vegas visit with my first ever flutter at a Blackjack table. Admittedly, my winning streak did not last long. But I still have a $5 chip rattling around in my purse as a reminder of all the other magical memories I have of the trip. You know, the ones I can’t share here. After all, what happens in Vegas…stays in Vegas.
Tips for a thrill seekers guide to Las Vegas
- Book your activities ahead of time to avoid disappointment
- Consider the time of year you want to go. The best time is between March and May or September and November as this is when the weather is pleasant but not overbearingly hot!
- Pack carefully. If you are doing water sports or riding in Jeeps you want to be dressed appropriately!
- Create an itinerary so you have time to fit everything in
To find out more, head to www.visitlasvegas.com and create your perfect trip. What’s your thoughts on our thrill seekers guide to Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments below.
