(NC) While Las Vegas’s nickname, “Sin City,” did lead the local tourism board to come up with the creative and catchy slogan, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” the Nevada destination is about much more than just gambling and other vices. Here are four types of activities you can safely discuss when you get back home.
Star power
Since the days of the Rat Pack crooners in the 1960s and late-career Elvis held court in dazzling style, Las Vegas has drawn top-notch music acts. The Sphere, also known as the Eye, is an eye-catching concert hall that hosts massive acts such as U2 and The Eagles. Countless other musicians hold weeks- or months-long residencies at various other venues in the city, including Canada’s own Shania Twain. Other acts to see include marquee comedians, magicians, circus acts and more.
Foodie heaven
Somewhat lesser-known is that Las Vegas is a Mecca for food lovers. While many of the large resorts still offer low-cost, decadent buffets to indulge in, the city has also attracted many world-famous chefs who’ve built Vegas-sized restaurants, including Guy Fieri, Giada de Laurentiis, Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay.
Day trips
Las Vegas is also well-situated for taking some memorable day trips out of town. The Hoover Dam, for example, is about a one-hour drive from the city. This massive concrete structure was built during the Great Depression, largely to generate electricity. But it’s a tourist attraction in itself and well-worth seeing, with daily guided tours available.
The Grand Canyon is another popular excursion from Vegas. Depending on which part you visit, it’s about a 2.5- to 5-hour drive by car or coach bus from the city. Or, tick another item off your bucket list and take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the canyon.
Free time
If a ticket to a top-billing show isn’t in your budget, there are plenty of free sights and sounds to take in. Simply strolling along the famed Las Vegas Strip will mesmerize you with its neon and over-the-top architecture. But there are also numerous free outdoor concerts, waterworks displays, fireworks shows and more.
Find more information about things to do in Las Vegas and some of the many holiday packages available at aircanadavacations.com.
