Top Recommended Las Vegas Layover Activities:
1. Caesars Palace
3570 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-731-7110
Caesar's Palace offers one of the most famous casinos in all of Vegas. The gaming area consists of two wings - the older wing is for serious, high-stakes gamblers who are undaunted by very pricey bidding, while the newer Olympic Casino caters more to the average, conservative gamer with less money to burn. Contains 2050 slot and video poker machines, 65 blackjack and 13 craps tables, 13 roulette wheels, and many other exciting games surrounded by one of the most opulent and astonishing settings around. The Palace also features a state-of-the-art, plush race and sports book with 38 video screens and 650 seats. The classic vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and graceful arches of the complex combine to create an aesthetically thrilling environment that attracts as many visitors and tourists as gamers. 118,000 square feet of casino space.
2. Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
3950 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-632-7777
Opened in mid-1999, this expansive resort offers a massive casino area second in size only to the MGM Grand. Features of the gaming area include over 2400 slot and video poker games, 122 table games, and a plush 300-seat, 17-screen race and sports book showcasing the largest screen in town. All of this is surrounded by a gorgeous and exotic tropical habitat. Also offers a private pit for high-priced betting. Service is impeccable, and the resort offers diverse alternatives to gambling should you need a break from gaming. 135,000 square feet of casino space.
3. MGM Grand Hotel/Casino
3799 Las Vegas Blvd South, The City of Entertainment, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-891-1111
The casino at the MGM Grand is more than grand - it is the largest casino-entertainment complex in the world. Encompassing four themed gaming areas (Hollywood, Emerald City, Monte Carlo, and Sports, each with distinctive decor), the casino spans 171,500 square feet, over 50,000 more than the next-largest Vegas casino. The games offered include, but are most definitely not limited to, 3700 slot and video poker machines, 76 blackjack and 15 craps tables, and 17 roulette wheels. When the Grand opened, it took 39 armored cars two days to bring in enough money to stock the casino! Also, the Grand is an ideal place for families visiting the area; the youth center, multiple showrooms, and 33-acre theme park give children plenty of opportunities for fun while parents enjoy the gaming facilities.
4. Monte Carlo
3770 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-730-7000
Modeled after the Place du Casino in Monaco, the Monte Carlo offers one of the most plush and opulent gaming areas in Las Vegas. A lot of the noise from the 2200 slot and video poker machines, 60 blackjack and 8 craps tables, 10 roulette wheels, and other games is absorbed by the high ceiling and soft upholstery, making it one of the more comfortably quiet casinos around. Options for high-rollers abound, as one can forgo the already above-average table minimums for the exclusive high limit room with table games or the "Top Hat" high bidder slot area. A gorgeous layout and several fancy chandeliers combine to make the Monte Carlo one of the more classy acts in town. 90,000 square feet of casino space.
4. New York, New York Hotel and Casino
3790 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-740-6969
Architecturally and visually, one of the most amazing casinos in Las Vegas lives up to the phenomenal resort exterior. The 2400 slot and video poker machines, 41 blackjack and 8 craps tables, 7 roulette wheels, and other games are interspersed throughout buildings, restaurants, and an abundance of city streets. The wondrous detail and urban style of the casino match the half-sized Statue of Liberty and scaled-down versions of the Empire State Building and other skyscrapers that house guests. Fortunately, however, the service and hospitality vastly exceed the stereotype of the Big Apple. 84,000 square feet of casino space.
5. Paris Las Vegas
3655 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-946-7000
The brand new Paris-Las Vegas casino is as much an experience as a gaming room; the decor matches beautiful Parisian streets with careful detail. In addition, three legs of the resort's 50-story Eiffel Tower replica extend into the casino area. Interspersed throughout the gaming room are over 2000 slot and video poker machines and over 100 table games, including a special high limit area for the serious high-rollers. Also offers a comfortable race and sports book for athletic wagers. Paris aims to create a memorable, exquisite atmosphere and does not disappoint. For a distraction from gaming, take the ride to the top of the Tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the Strip, or take in the "Notre Dame de Paris" musical spectacular. 83,000 square feet of casino space.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Stratosphere Tower
2000 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89104 · 702-380-7777
This sight is a must see/do! The Stratosphere Tower is currently the “tallest free-standing observation tower” in the US. The structure stands 1149 feet high, and offers both indoor and outdoor observation, for those who have a greater fear of heights or those who would like a completely unobstructed view. ADMISSION: Non-Nevada Residents $5, Nevada Residents $4
2. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
601 Nevada Hwy, Boulder City, NV 89005 · 702-293-8907
Located within 25 miles of Las Vegas, Lake Mead National Recreation Park Area allows a great deal of relaxation and fun year around! With 1.5 million acres, it is twice the size of Rhode Island. “Lake Mead is America’s largest man-made reservoir and three of America's four desert ecosystems--the Mojave, the Great Basin and the Sonoran Deserts--meet in Lake Mead”. With 50 miles of shoreline, the park offers multiple marinas for boating, fishing, and water sports. Also caters to hikers, climbers, campers, and driving tours you will find in the park.
3. Mount Charleston
Toiyabe National Forest, NV · 702-872-7098
Located within 40 minutes of Las Vegas, Mount Charleston, which is in Toiyabe National Forest is a “whole different world. Pine trees, log cabins & granite peaks are less than an hours drive form the Strip. Wild Horses, Burros & Elk can be seen roaming these wilderness lands on any given day”. Toiyabe National Forest contains the highest point in the state. On any given day you can see for miles away. The park offers horseback riding; snow skiing, hiking, camping and wildlife viewing.
4. Red Rock Canyon
Las Vegas, NV · 702-363-1921
Found within 20 minutes and 17 miles of downtown Las Vegas, the park is a quick retreat from the fast pace of the Glitter City. The Mojave Desert is not as barren as you might think. Peace, serenity and beauty are a few words that describe this beautiful canyon. The park offers beautiful hiking trails, with a wonderful scenic view. For the less adventurous keep in mind they also have a 13-mile scenic loop for vehicles too.
5. Valley of Fire State Park
Overton, NV 89040 · 702-397-2088
Found within 50 miles of Las Vegas, the park encompasses unique rock formations formed by 150 million years of weathering; formations that come to life in brilliant colors. A wonderful retreat and a source of fascinating natural eye candy, away from the neon lights and glitter! family fun. The habitat is open for viewing daily until 5:30pm. Admission: Free
6. Las Vegas National Golf Club
1911 East Desert Inn Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-796-0013
With several lengthy par-4’s and extremely challenging par-3’s, long iron play will be tested on this demanding course. These immaculate fairways are often bordered by a number of trees. However, the wind will cause problems even when the trees are not around. The greens are guarded by a number of bunkers and multiple water hazards, and you should play the ball low and under the wind to avoid the trouble.
7. Painted Desert Golf Club
5555 Painted Mirage Way, Las Vegas, NV 89129 · 702-645-2568
Standing on these tees, you know you are facing a true desert course. Natural areas with cacti and native plants separate the tees from the fairways and border most of these plush fairways as well. Water hazards pinch several landing areas and guard a number of the greens. Smart play will be rewarded on this beautiful course if you can stay away from the grass bunkers off the tee and the sand bunkers greenside.
8. Reflection Bay Golf Club
75 Montelago Blvd, Henderson, NV 89011-3201 · 877-698-4653
Look one way and you see the rippling waters of Lake Las Vegas; look the other way and you see miles of vast desert and natural terrain. That’s the scene at this remarkable layout, which features an excellent variety of holes and challenges. From natural desert areas to peninsula greens, this course has it all. Two award winning courses designed by legendary Jack Nicklaus, and a third course by Tom Weiskopf.
9. Rio Secco Gold Club
2851 Grand Hills Dr, Henderson, NV 89052 · 702-252-7777
Even though it's classified as a resort course, only guests of the Rio Secco Hotel are allowed to play the scenic Rio Secco Gold. Occasional fairway bunkers will keep you honest on the extremely generous fairways, and green side bunkers will collect most miss-hits. Situated at the foot of Black Mountain, breaks on these greens can baffle even the best putters. Several natural wash areas and changes in elevation will sometimes challenge your game, but they will always provide breathtaking views.
10. Sun, Snow & Wolf Golf Courses/Las Vegas Paiute Resort
10325 Nu Wav Kaiv Blvd, Las Vegas Paiute Resort, Las Vegas, NV 89124 · 702-658-1400
Railroad ties and pot bunkers – yes, it is another wonderful Pete Dye creation. The layout is great and features wide, generous fairways and small greens. With holes winding through the Paiute Indian Reservation, the scenery is out of this world. Water on this desert course comes into play on several occasions but once successfully avoided, extremely fast greens provide the next test.
1. Caesars Palace
3570 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-731-7110
Caesar's Palace offers one of the most famous casinos in all of Vegas. The gaming area consists of two wings - the older wing is for serious, high-stakes gamblers who are undaunted by very pricey bidding, while the newer Olympic Casino caters more to the average, conservative gamer with less money to burn. Contains 2050 slot and video poker machines, 65 blackjack and 13 craps tables, 13 roulette wheels, and many other exciting games surrounded by one of the most opulent and astonishing settings around. The Palace also features a state-of-the-art, plush race and sports book with 38 video screens and 650 seats. The classic vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and graceful arches of the complex combine to create an aesthetically thrilling environment that attracts as many visitors and tourists as gamers. 118,000 square feet of casino space.
2. Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
3950 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-632-7777
Opened in mid-1999, this expansive resort offers a massive casino area second in size only to the MGM Grand. Features of the gaming area include over 2400 slot and video poker games, 122 table games, and a plush 300-seat, 17-screen race and sports book showcasing the largest screen in town. All of this is surrounded by a gorgeous and exotic tropical habitat. Also offers a private pit for high-priced betting. Service is impeccable, and the resort offers diverse alternatives to gambling should you need a break from gaming. 135,000 square feet of casino space.
3. MGM Grand Hotel/Casino
3799 Las Vegas Blvd South, The City of Entertainment, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-891-1111
The casino at the MGM Grand is more than grand - it is the largest casino-entertainment complex in the world. Encompassing four themed gaming areas (Hollywood, Emerald City, Monte Carlo, and Sports, each with distinctive decor), the casino spans 171,500 square feet, over 50,000 more than the next-largest Vegas casino. The games offered include, but are most definitely not limited to, 3700 slot and video poker machines, 76 blackjack and 15 craps tables, and 17 roulette wheels. When the Grand opened, it took 39 armored cars two days to bring in enough money to stock the casino! Also, the Grand is an ideal place for families visiting the area; the youth center, multiple showrooms, and 33-acre theme park give children plenty of opportunities for fun while parents enjoy the gaming facilities.
4. Monte Carlo
3770 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-730-7000
Modeled after the Place du Casino in Monaco, the Monte Carlo offers one of the most plush and opulent gaming areas in Las Vegas. A lot of the noise from the 2200 slot and video poker machines, 60 blackjack and 8 craps tables, 10 roulette wheels, and other games is absorbed by the high ceiling and soft upholstery, making it one of the more comfortably quiet casinos around. Options for high-rollers abound, as one can forgo the already above-average table minimums for the exclusive high limit room with table games or the "Top Hat" high bidder slot area. A gorgeous layout and several fancy chandeliers combine to make the Monte Carlo one of the more classy acts in town. 90,000 square feet of casino space.
4. New York, New York Hotel and Casino
3790 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-740-6969
Architecturally and visually, one of the most amazing casinos in Las Vegas lives up to the phenomenal resort exterior. The 2400 slot and video poker machines, 41 blackjack and 8 craps tables, 7 roulette wheels, and other games are interspersed throughout buildings, restaurants, and an abundance of city streets. The wondrous detail and urban style of the casino match the half-sized Statue of Liberty and scaled-down versions of the Empire State Building and other skyscrapers that house guests. Fortunately, however, the service and hospitality vastly exceed the stereotype of the Big Apple. 84,000 square feet of casino space.
5. Paris Las Vegas
3655 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-946-7000
The brand new Paris-Las Vegas casino is as much an experience as a gaming room; the decor matches beautiful Parisian streets with careful detail. In addition, three legs of the resort's 50-story Eiffel Tower replica extend into the casino area. Interspersed throughout the gaming room are over 2000 slot and video poker machines and over 100 table games, including a special high limit area for the serious high-rollers. Also offers a comfortable race and sports book for athletic wagers. Paris aims to create a memorable, exquisite atmosphere and does not disappoint. For a distraction from gaming, take the ride to the top of the Tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the Strip, or take in the "Notre Dame de Paris" musical spectacular. 83,000 square feet of casino space.
Top Weekend Getaways And Day Trip Excursions:
1. Stratosphere Tower
2000 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV 89104 · 702-380-7777
This sight is a must see/do! The Stratosphere Tower is currently the “tallest free-standing observation tower” in the US. The structure stands 1149 feet high, and offers both indoor and outdoor observation, for those who have a greater fear of heights or those who would like a completely unobstructed view. ADMISSION: Non-Nevada Residents $5, Nevada Residents $4
2. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
601 Nevada Hwy, Boulder City, NV 89005 · 702-293-8907
Located within 25 miles of Las Vegas, Lake Mead National Recreation Park Area allows a great deal of relaxation and fun year around! With 1.5 million acres, it is twice the size of Rhode Island. “Lake Mead is America’s largest man-made reservoir and three of America's four desert ecosystems--the Mojave, the Great Basin and the Sonoran Deserts--meet in Lake Mead”. With 50 miles of shoreline, the park offers multiple marinas for boating, fishing, and water sports. Also caters to hikers, climbers, campers, and driving tours you will find in the park.
3. Mount Charleston
Toiyabe National Forest, NV · 702-872-7098
Located within 40 minutes of Las Vegas, Mount Charleston, which is in Toiyabe National Forest is a “whole different world. Pine trees, log cabins & granite peaks are less than an hours drive form the Strip. Wild Horses, Burros & Elk can be seen roaming these wilderness lands on any given day”. Toiyabe National Forest contains the highest point in the state. On any given day you can see for miles away. The park offers horseback riding; snow skiing, hiking, camping and wildlife viewing.
4. Red Rock Canyon
Las Vegas, NV · 702-363-1921
Found within 20 minutes and 17 miles of downtown Las Vegas, the park is a quick retreat from the fast pace of the Glitter City. The Mojave Desert is not as barren as you might think. Peace, serenity and beauty are a few words that describe this beautiful canyon. The park offers beautiful hiking trails, with a wonderful scenic view. For the less adventurous keep in mind they also have a 13-mile scenic loop for vehicles too.
5. Valley of Fire State Park
Overton, NV 89040 · 702-397-2088
Found within 50 miles of Las Vegas, the park encompasses unique rock formations formed by 150 million years of weathering; formations that come to life in brilliant colors. A wonderful retreat and a source of fascinating natural eye candy, away from the neon lights and glitter! family fun. The habitat is open for viewing daily until 5:30pm. Admission: Free
6. Las Vegas National Golf Club
1911 East Desert Inn Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 · 702-796-0013
With several lengthy par-4’s and extremely challenging par-3’s, long iron play will be tested on this demanding course. These immaculate fairways are often bordered by a number of trees. However, the wind will cause problems even when the trees are not around. The greens are guarded by a number of bunkers and multiple water hazards, and you should play the ball low and under the wind to avoid the trouble.
7. Painted Desert Golf Club
5555 Painted Mirage Way, Las Vegas, NV 89129 · 702-645-2568
Standing on these tees, you know you are facing a true desert course. Natural areas with cacti and native plants separate the tees from the fairways and border most of these plush fairways as well. Water hazards pinch several landing areas and guard a number of the greens. Smart play will be rewarded on this beautiful course if you can stay away from the grass bunkers off the tee and the sand bunkers greenside.
8. Reflection Bay Golf Club
75 Montelago Blvd, Henderson, NV 89011-3201 · 877-698-4653
Look one way and you see the rippling waters of Lake Las Vegas; look the other way and you see miles of vast desert and natural terrain. That’s the scene at this remarkable layout, which features an excellent variety of holes and challenges. From natural desert areas to peninsula greens, this course has it all. Two award winning courses designed by legendary Jack Nicklaus, and a third course by Tom Weiskopf.
9. Rio Secco Gold Club
2851 Grand Hills Dr, Henderson, NV 89052 · 702-252-7777
Even though it's classified as a resort course, only guests of the Rio Secco Hotel are allowed to play the scenic Rio Secco Gold. Occasional fairway bunkers will keep you honest on the extremely generous fairways, and green side bunkers will collect most miss-hits. Situated at the foot of Black Mountain, breaks on these greens can baffle even the best putters. Several natural wash areas and changes in elevation will sometimes challenge your game, but they will always provide breathtaking views.
10. Sun, Snow & Wolf Golf Courses/Las Vegas Paiute Resort
10325 Nu Wav Kaiv Blvd, Las Vegas Paiute Resort, Las Vegas, NV 89124 · 702-658-1400
Railroad ties and pot bunkers – yes, it is another wonderful Pete Dye creation. The layout is great and features wide, generous fairways and small greens. With holes winding through the Paiute Indian Reservation, the scenery is out of this world. Water on this desert course comes into play on several occasions but once successfully avoided, extremely fast greens provide the next test.