Vegas Baby.

Land of poker chips, dice and even a few decks of cards. Oh, you?re not going to Vegas to gamble? Fair enough, but don?t expect to be bored. Las Vegas caters to the entertainment side of life as well. You can see animals, go to a unique museum, watch a show or even catch a private moment in all the chaos. And as they say what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas (so tell everyone you gambled and came home a winner - nobody will know the difference.)
 
There are a great number of attractions in Vegas. Some are steady, others are there one minute gone the next. Frankly, I love visiting Vegas and there are some awesome attractions. When composing this guide, I decided to only highlight those places I have visited over the last several months. That way you will know the information is accurate. But don?t stop at this guide, when you get to Vegas, pick up the free magazines that come out monthly. They are available in some hotel rooms plus at the airport. These will give you great discounts, up-to-date show schedules and above all those places nobody else knew about because?they just opened.

Attractions

In Las Vegas? Big Backyard...

Hoover Dam / US Highway 93 at the Nevada-Arizona border

This Dam is one of the leading power sources for the west, but don?t take my word for it, go on the tour. Once inside you will see the big turbines moving and making electricity for over 1.3 million households a year. This is a popular tour that over 1 million people go on every year. A must see for the family!!

Red Rock Canyon / Highway 159 at Scenic Drive

Named for the striking red rocks that are found in the state park, you can visit natures paradise daily. Being that is it only fifteen minutes from downtown Las Vegas it makes an easy escape to hike and bike when the noise of the slot machines becomes overwhelming.

Sights to be Seen?

Bellagio Fountains / 3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd

Choreographed to the music, these sprays of water don?t miss a beat. The best performances (in my humble opinion) are the evening shows. The lights go down and the water swishes about with lights highlighting the show. It is a great break and a true wonder on how they make something so darn simple, so entertaining!

Bellagio Botanical Gardens / 3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd

If you like plants, you have to check out these gardens. Let?s just say they are no ordinary gardens either. An atrium is full of plants, welcoming both visually and the swell of life wafting through the air. This venue changes with the season, so make a point to go back every time you go to Vegas.

White Tiger Habitat / 3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a white tiger. Be warned that the animals aren?t always on display. Yet, even if you don?t get the chance to see the creatures, you can watch the never ending video playing above on the animals and their habitat.

The Museum of the American Cocktail / 3667 S. Las Vegas Blvd

If Bond were here, he asked for his cocktail shaken, not stirred. And that is exact what you will find along with an entire display of concoctions better known as cocktails. A recent edition to Las Vegas, this museum is at the Commander?s Palace where you can see cocktail history, mixes and even bottles. Sounds like a great time? Sure is!

Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand / 3799 S. Las Vegas Blvd

Roar!!! This little attraction can cause a big stir especially when the lions are moving. Panels of glass, floor to ceiling, line three sides of this exhibit for people to see the lions. The best part (again in my humble opinion) is when guests walk through the tunnel and look up to see the bottom of a lions paw (IT IS HUGE).
 
Imperial Palace Auto Collection / 3535 S Las Vegas Blvd

Hey, you don?t need to hitch a ride to get to the car collection, just take a cab. And before you go, visit the collection website and print off your free coupon for everyone in your party. This collection boasts of the Worlds Largest classic Car Showroom. Is it big? Oh, yeah!! And full of cars to view for hours. I always drop my hubby off here and head to the nearest shopping center (see listings below.)

Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo / 3555 S. Las Vegas Blvd.

If penguins could only lived in Vegas they would be the best dressed. Well, they do ? right behind the Flamingo Hotel. They along with other animals including flamingos have their own private retreat to enjoy their lives while watching the human take pictures of them. When you go, take a minute to enjoy the moment. It is hard to believe it is found in Vegas!

Chinatown / Las Vegas

I have been to the NYC and LA Chinatown and loved the experience. How does this area compare ? unbelievably close!!! Friendly people and a great atmosphere makes a chance to walk (and shop) fun for the family. There are many souvenir and gift shops to browse and a lot of looking to be done!
 
Fremont Street Experience / 425 Fremont St

No trip to Vegas is complete without the stop at Fremont. Lights, Lights, Lights. That is the only way I can think of describing it. But the lights aren?t just on ? in fact they are on with music and in rhythm making a spectacular view! Check this out!

Shop until You Drop! Vegas Style!!!!!

I am not a shop-o-holic, unless we are going to Vegas. Deals, steals and even full price can be found all over the strip. Here are my personal favorites and let?s meet for coffee afterwards so we can compare our finds!

Forum Shops / Caesar?s Palace

This is more than a shopping center, it is an attraction! Light shows, an aquarium and of course shopping. Check out all the latest trends and brands while enjoying the afternoon

Fashion Show Mall / 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd

From the outside, it looks small. But hold on to your wallet as it is huge. There are over 200 stores and plenty of exotic items to be found.

Antique Mall of America / 9151 S. Las Vegas Blvd.

If new isn?t your style, then a chance to purchase the old might just be your thing. This mall is an eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, home decor items, and accessories from over 70 different dealers that covers over 20,000 square feet of space. One of the largest antique malls in Nevada, it is a delight to visit.

Bonanza Gifts / Las Vegas Ave & Sahara

Coining itself as the Worlds largest Gift store, which is the explanation you need to use on why you got lost with all souvenirs. It is big and full of gifts for your unlucky relatives who had to stay at home. Expect to spend about a half hour in this place, maybe longer.

Las Vegas Outlet Mall / 7400 S. Las Vegas Blvd.

I absolutely love this place. Full of great deals, wonderful stores and plenty of things to look at, I could spend my entire vacation here and never leave. But I don?t as I need to drop off my purchases at the hotel every so often. Don?t miss the Nike Store and the Disney Store!