Category: Local Attractions

Spending the Holidays in the Desert

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Spending the holidays in Vegas is becoming increasingly common as more and more people flee the snow and head for the sunshine. This city’s over-the-top tendencies don’t stop when the holidays roll around. Everything from festive decor to light displays to special seasonal menus exude holiday spirit.

In an effort to make the most out of your desert holiday experience, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate eating, shopping, and otherwise enjoying the holidays and Christmas in Las Vegas:

Best Places to Shop for Gifts in Vegas

Vegas is one of the best places to be when you need to go shopping for gifts. Whether your loved ones prefer designer goods, gourmet snacks, or casual trinkets, this city has you covered.

-Town Square

Complete with a range of trendy retailers, Town Square is a one-stop-destination for all your holiday gift shopping. Make a day of your outing by dining at one of the many restaurants or stopping into a casual eatery. Town Square offers guests convenience wrapped in an elegant package.

-HEXX Chocolate

HEXX is a beloved Vegas chocolatier specializing in fine, artisanal chocolates. If one of your holiday gift recipients has a sweet tooth, this is the perfect option. HEXX chocolate is created from scratch with cocoa beans from all over the world. According to HEXX, each region brings out a specific flavor in the resulting chocolate, similar to wine. Chocolate can be purchased in single bars or in sample packs so your loved one gets a little taste of each region.

-RAO’s

Rao’s Specialty Foods offers an array of gift baskets during the holiday season, each featuring a unique selection of hand-crafted goodies. This gift is perfect for the food lover in your life, as you can personalize it according to their taste.

Holiday Events and Activities in Vegas

Don’t let the desert foliage and sunshine fool you – Las Vegas gets festive during the holiday season! The city embraces the holidays just like it does everything else – with vigor and extravagance. If you’re spending the holiday season in Sin City, be sure to check out these events:

-VEGAS! THE SHOW Holiday Spectacular

This year, the renowned Vegas production will take on a holiday twist. Additional dance numbers, shimmering decor, and extravagant holiday costumes will decorate the stage. This is a great option for couples and families alike, as the show is open to all ages. Show times are 7 pm and 9 pm nightly.

-Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan

Get a taste of that classic winter weather in the desert by visiting the ice rink at the Cosmopolitan. The fourth floor outdoor pool that draws guests in the Summertime transforms into a Winter wonderland from November to January. S’mores, seasonal cocktails, holiday movies, and festive music add to the ambience. Tickets are $20 ($10 for locals and hotel guests).

-Annual NYE Party at Tahiti Village

Complete with hand-crafted hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight, this party is always one for the books. Guests are greeted with festive decor, a fresh seafood display, and a dance floor pumping with top tunes. Located in the Skyview Lounge of Tower 5, the atmosphere  of the party matches the excitement of the evening, providing guests with the perfect place to bring in the New Year in style. Tickets are $135 in advance or $150 at the door.

Easy Meals to Make in Your Suite

If you like to prepare your holiday meals yourself, make sure to stay at a resort that offers suites with fully functional kitchens. Here are a few easy-to-prepare, delicious holiday meals so you can both delight your loved ones and save time and money:

–Glazed Ham with Coriander and Fennel

Add a delicious twist to a Christmas classic. This slightly-salty, slightly-sweet flavor complements nicely with the meat and makes for the perfect holiday dinner.

–Striped Bass With Shallot Vinaigrette

This dish is a lighter alternative to most holiday classics. The delicate bass and tarte vinaigrette combine to create an exceptional flavor that will earn you compliments all day and night.

–Roasted Leg of Lamb with Carrots and Honey-Mint Sauce:

Feeling adventurous? This dish takes your taste buds for quite the ride. Each aspect of the meal contributes to the overall flavor, which is equal parts bold and intricate.

General Tips

-Book Early:

Restaurants, hotels, shows, and events tend to fill up pretty quickly during the holiday season as more and more people decide to celebrate in Sin City. As long as you make your reservations early, you’ll be good to go!

-Keep Your Mind Open:

Though it’s smart to have a pretty good idea of what you want to do during your trip, keep your eyes peeled for even more holiday fun along the way. Light displays and other holiday celebrations are plentiful throughout the city.

-Dress for the Occasion:

Though Las Vegas is typically thought to have hot weather year round, it can get pretty chilly in the Winter months (especially at night). Make sure to bring sweaters and jackets with you.

Las vegas embraces the holidays with excitement and spirit – and it shows! From the extravagant decor to the plethora of holiday-themed activities and events, this city is the perfect place to be when getting into the holiday spirit. Celebrate the season with loved ones in this desert oasis that never fails to impress.

Two girls taking a picture while on vacation.

Must Take Pictures While Staying in Vegas

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Las Vegas is known for being over-the-top, which makes for some prime photo opportunities. Whether you’re into intricate architecture, towering water shows, or sparkling displays, you are sure to capture some of the best photo opts in Vegas during your trip. With so many attractions fighting for your attention, it can be hard to decide where to point your camera next – which is why we put together this list of must-take pictures while staying in Vegas.

The Bellagio Fountains

The famous fountains in front of the Bellagio create a majestic scene begging to be photographed. A photo of this installation will be gorgeous no matter what time of day you shoot, but the most magnificent shots tend to be taken at sunset and in the evenings, when the water displays are illuminated. Although photos can’t do the regal water shows justice, they come pretty close.

The Fremont Street Lights

Fremont Street is a photographer’s wonderland. Whether you’re shooting portraits or landscape shots, this street will present you with a plethora of well-lit, unique photo opts. Plenty of street performers, neon signs, and quirky displays are available for your photo-taking pleasures. Perhaps the most notable characteristic of Fremont Street is the giant LED covering that spans the length of five football fields and lights up the area in brilliant, luminous displays. Get your camera ready and snap a few shots of the lights playing off of the buzzing street.

OMNIA Nightclub

It may seem strange to include a nightclub on a list of the best photo opts in Vegas, but the reason quickly becomes apparent upon entrance into OMNIA. The centerpiece of the club is a giant, dancing chandelier that moves to the music, just as the dancers do below. The 30-foot display combines with brilliant light shows to create a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity. The club’s lush interiors and organic shapes make it a feast for the eyes – and the camera.

The High Roller

This attraction offers arguably the best view of the strip from above. Whether you’re scared of heights or crave an adrenaline rush, there’s an opportunity for the perfect Las Vegas Strip pictures. Take a ride on the High Roller at sunset and take a few shots of the glittering city from the top. Or, stay on the ground and make the High Roller itself the focal point (there’s a great point of view from the LINQ promenade). However you choose to utilize the tallest wheel on the planet for your photo-taking purposes, you’re sure to end up with some jaw-dropping images.

The Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan

If you’ve come to Vegas for the glitz and glamour, this one’s for you. The Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan glitters with elegance and class. This enormous display of glittering crystals encompasses three unique bar experiences that offer a variety of perspectives. For photo taking purposes, the best views come from the bottom level outside of the chandelier, the third level inside the chandelier, or at the second level of The Cosmopolitan looking over the chandelier. Though these perspectives may offer the best compositions, any view of the chandelier will yield incredible, sparkling images.

The Excalibur Castles

An oldie but a goodie, the Excalibur Castles offer a royal photo op. The intricate castle designs transport you to medieval times while the colorful castle tops and bustling surroundings bring you right back to present day Vegas. Snap a detail shot of the architecture or bring your wide-angle lens for a shot of the entire thing. This quirky Las Vegas classic won’t disappoint when it comes to the best places to take family pictures in Las Vegas.

The Shopping Arcade at the Venetian

This Venice-inspired attraction in the Venetian screams “photo op” from the sky-themed ceiling to the authentic gondolas floating along the indoor canal. There are several bridges along the Arcade that are perfect for portraits while any angle of the canal makes for a gorgeous shot. For a unique perspective, take a ride on a gondola and take photographs while drifting along the canal.

The Las Vegas Sign (of course)

This photo op is more classic than cliche. Featured in almost all Vegas movies and pictured with countless celebrities, this sign is a must when it comes to Vegas photography. Be wary as you will probably not have the sign to yourself – it’s one of the most photographed spots in the city. But, that classic Las Vegas Sign shot will be well worth the wait. Try timing your photo sesh for sunrise or sunset for an added effect.

This photogenic city is packed to the brim with camera-ready scenes and insta-worthy locations. With so much to do and see, you won’t be able to put your camera down for long. Make sure to document your experiences so you can look back and remember how dazzled you were by the entertainment capital of the world!

Contestant riding a horse at the NFR.

Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Coming to Vegas

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If you’re visiting Las Vegas this month, you’re in for a real treat because the rodeo is in town! That means it’s time to slip on those cowboy boots, dust off your belt buckle, and plop that cowboy hat on your head! But, to be more specific, it’s not just a rodeo that’s in town, it’s the rodeo, the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo! Let Tahiti Village be your source and host for all things rodeo, and discover what you’ve been missing!

National Finals Rodeo (NFR) History

If you are attending this year’s NFR, then you will forever be a part of one of the greatest rodeos in history. Starting back in 1958, the NFR was established to showcase the nation’s top fifteen money-winners in each event, including calf roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, bareback bronc riding, and team roping, all competing for the ultimate world champion title. Talk about a variety of events to get everyone in the crowd excited about a good old fashioned rodeo!

Throughout the history of the NFR, the locations have moved around the U.S., eventually ending up in fabulous Las Vegas! In the beginning, from 1959-1961, the NFR was held in Dallas. Following, it was Los Angeles’ turn to host this one of a kind event from 1962-1964. After the event took place in LA, Oklahoma City successfully bid to be the host of this rodeo event. After a couple of their successful venues brought in groundbreaking annual revenues, the NFR remained in the area through 1984.

Finally, the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas, won the bid to become the new host for the rodeo and since 1985 the rodeo has continued to be held in Sin City at the Thomas & Mack Center. The NFR has become the biggest client to the venue, bringing in over 170,000 fans each year for the anticipated 10 day event. Not only is this event loved by many, but in 2001 Wrangler became the title sponsor for the National Finals Rodeo, giving it the name it deserves!

Now that we’re caught up on the history of the event, it’s time to get into the specifics of this year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo!

Everything You Need to Know About the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo

2017 marks the 33rd year that the Wrangler NFR is being held in Las Vegas, and this is an event that you will not want to miss! It’s time to make your way out to the wild wild west for this premier rodeo, a 10 day event in the desert. If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas or even heard stories about the city, you’ll know that every event held in the city is done to the fullest, and the NFR is no exception. Now it’s time to fully prepare for this 10 day event!

  • When

This year’s NFR, the “Super Bowl” of rodeos is held on December 7-16, 2017 in Las Vegas, NV. This timeframe creates the perfect window for you and your fellow rodeo lovers to plan a much needed trip to Sin City! Not only will you be able to enjoy the rodeo events, but you will also have plenty of time to explore the city during one of the less busy times for tourism. Catch a show on the Strip, enjoy an unforgettable meal, or simply explore the city and everything that makes this area great!

  • Where

As the destination in Las Vegas for sports and entertainment, the 2017 NFR will be held at The Thomas & Mack Center. This venue not only hosts the NFR every year, but it is also home to UNLV athletic events, World Championship boxing, monster truck finals, and much more! Get your feel of one of the best venues in the area when you attend the 2017 NFR.

  • Schedule of Events

Before the meat of the NFR begins on Thursday, December 7th, you will also see that the rodeo events officially kick off on Sunday, December 3rd, starting with the Miss Rodeo America Contestant Introductions. Following these days leading up to the first day of events, you can also catch the Miss Rodeo America Horsemanship Competition & Public Speaking, PRCA National Convention Registration & State of the Association, and the PRCA Trade Show & Silent Auction. December 7th marks the first day of the official schedule! The Wrangler NFR consists of 10 rounds starting on Thursday, and at the end of each event there are two champions. So, get your tickets today and don’t miss out on all the fun of the rodeo. You’ll also want to keep autograph sessions in mind while in town for the main events! The top 7 rodeo events that you can expect to see this year are:

>Bareback riding
>Steer wrestling
>Team roping
>Saddle bronc riding
>Tie-down roping
>Barrel racing
>Bull riding

Who

The 2017 Wrangler NFR Contestant Roster consists of over 100 skilled rodeo performers, looking to make the final cut of this years events. Some names include Sage Kimzey for bull riding, Tanner Aus for bareback riding, and Brody Cress for saddle bronc riding, just to name a few! Also, be on the lookout for some unforgettable opening acts as well as live performances before and after each night of the 2017 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo!

Now that you have a better understanding of how one of the greatest rodeos came about and a brief overview of the events happening this year, it’s time to get out to Las Vegas for one of the biggest events in the desert! Looking for a place to stay? Look no further than Tahiti Village! With resort style rooms, you and your whole party will be nothing but comfortable while staying in Las Vegas.

Ring in 2018 at our New Year’s Eve party!

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If you missed last year’s festive New Year’s Eve party, we hope you made (and will keep) at least one 2017 resolution: to ring in 2018 with us here at Tahiti Village! Our 10th floor Skyview lounge in Tower 5 offers an unimpeded Strip view and is an excellent location to watch the awe-inspiring fireworks display at midnight. Our balcony offers one of the best vantage points in Las Vegas. You’ll also enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, an enticing chilled seafood display, party favors, party hats, dancing to great tunes pumped out by our in-house DJ, and a champagne toast at midnight. Doors open at 10 p.m. Admission is $130 in advance and $150 at the door. We hope to see you here and wish you all a healthy, happy, and prosperous 2018!

Rodeo star Luke Brown is coming to Tahiti Village!

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Meet rodeo cowboy Luke Brown from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at Tahiti Village. He’ll be in our lobby signing autographs, posing for photos, and performing a roping demonstration. Luke competes in team roping on the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo circuit, and will be in Las Vegas for the NFR’s annual stopover Dec. 7-16. Don’t miss this great opportunity to chat and pose for pictures with Luke Brown!

Group of friends enjoying happy hour in Las Vegas.

Do Happy Hour Las Vegas Like a Local

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When people visit Las Vegas, they usually want to hit all the hot spots on the Strip. And while the big names may seem like the place to party, Las Vegas locals know happy hour is where it’s at. All around Vegas, you can find great deals on appetizers, drinks, and many other specials – as long as you know where to look!

We’ve made the ultimate guide of how to enjoy happy hour Las Vegas like a local, including where to go, what to order, and how to save a buck here and there (to spend at the casino, of course!).

Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis

During peak dinner hours, Hank’s is a swanky spot where you can get top-notch steaks and drinks. But, from 4pm-7pm, Hank’s offers one of Las Vegas’ best happy hours with half-price martinis and a special, gourmet appetizer menu. Locals love the French onion soup, beef sliders, oysters, and lobster rolls. And of course, you can never go wrong with half-price martinis with any liquor of your choice!

Sushi Roku

At Sushi Roku’s happy hour, you get it all! The restaurant includes $6 well drinks, $5 beer and wine, and $3 sake on their happy hour menu. When it comes to food, you can choose from $4 hand rolls or $6 cut rolls. If you aren’t a sushi-lover or are in the mood for something new, check out their ribeye-wrapped asparagus, donut holes, or chocolate volcano cake, all on the happy hour menu, too!

Top of the World

Top of the World is the restaurant located at the very top of the Stratosphere and features views of the Las Vegas Strip from 800 feet high! With a view like this, you would think that the restaurant would only offer expensive dishes, but locals can get in for happy hour at a fraction of the normal prices. And, Top of the World has two happy hours, one from 4pm-7pm and one from 10:30pm-4am! During the first, you can expect half price appetizers and 2-for-1 cocktails, and at the second you will see half price appetizers from 10:30pm-1am and 2-for-1 cocktails from 1am-4am (views included).

The Golden Tiki

The Golden Tiki in Las Vegas has an interesting happy hour, as they have their food catered in from another establishment. That being said, included in happy hour is all-you-can-eat appetizers like spring rolls and chicken wings! Pair that with a $5 Mai Tai and you have yourself a tropical storm of deliciousness. Buffets and alcohol, two things that the city does best, especially when it comes to the best happy hours in Las Vegas.

FIZZ at Caesars Palace

Who knew that you can find a killer drink deal right on the Strip? At FIZZ, located in Caesars Palace, you can score bottomless champagne for only $36. Bottomless Bubbles, as FIZZ calls it, runs Sunday through Thursday from 6-8pm or 8-10pm (you choose your two-hour window) and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30-7:30pm or 7:30-9:30pm. During happy hour, FIZZ also has $8 appetizers, $7 well cocktails, $6 house champagne, and $5 beers (Sunday-Thursday, 6pm-9pm). Pop the bubbly and get your Vegas party started with this sparkling happy hour!

Blue Martini Lounge

Blue Martini is known as “the exclusively chic, upscale lounge and live entertainment ‘locals bar’” according to their website, and there’s a reason why this spot is a favorite! Their list of martinis is unprecedented and includes concoctions like Strawberry Basil, Raspberry Sage, Starburst, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch! Come during happy hour, which is from 4pm-7pm every night of the week, for discounted drinks and half-priced eats. Plus, enjoy complimentary martini tasting to find your favorite!

The Leatherneck Club

The Leatherneck Club in Las Vegas doesn’t have the glitz and glam of some of the iconic spots, but it does honor the Marine Corps and other military members all day, every day! Guests can view memorabilia dating back to World War I and the brotherly camaraderie is one of the most special things about this bar. Oh, and their happy hour, which includes a make-your-own taco cart, with the first two being free! Check their Facebook Page for updates on happy hour, as this local bar is always doing specials and events.

You don’t always have to pay an arm and a leg for a good drink in Vegas, especially if you know where to look. Locals know all the best happy hours in Las Vegas, and now you can too! And after you score a deal or two, keep the party going at Tahiti Village, the perfect after-hours hangout!

Table full of Thanksgiving food, ready for the holidays.

Having the Happiest Thanksgiving in Las Vegas

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Las Vegas celebrates the holiday season just like it does everything else – with extravagance! Holiday celebrations, shows, meals, parties, and other events help visitors get into the spirit and celebrate with zeal. Many locals and out-of-towners choose to visit the Strip for Thanksgiving festivities because of the overwhelmingly delicious food options and enchanting entertainment. Why cook at home when the glittering city of Vegas is begging to pamper you?

Traditional Thanksgiving feasts, new takes on turkey classics, and gorgeous Fall decor are added into the mix of fun that visitors would normally expect to find in Vegas. The sheer number of offerings can make navigating through the city during the holiday season a little overwhelming.

Below is a guide to having the happiest Thanksgiving in Las Vegas:

Where to Eat

There are plenty of options when it comes to enjoying a feast for Thanksgiving in Las Vegas. In true Vegas form, the city offers everything from traditional turkey dinners to eclectic Thanksgiving plates. Most Thanksgiving buffets will offer some holiday-themed dishes on Thanksgiving. However, lines can be overwhelmingly long so it’s best to make a reservation at a restaurant ahead of time. Some local favorites for Thanksgiving dinner include:

Aureole – This renowned Mandalay Bay restaurant lives up to high expectations on Thanksgiving Day. Beginning with a piping hot bowl of rich Pumpkin Bisque, this meal guides guests through an autumn-themed culinary journey. Traditional dishes are designed with a new flare, including roasted turkey with brussels sprouts and mushroom stuffing.

Herringbone – This restaurant located in ARIA provides guests with the perfect foundation to enjoy a holiday full of luxury and style. On Thanksgiving Day, Herringbone serves a feast complete with flavorful turkey and a mix of classic and unique sides. Fresh ingredients and innovative techniques are infused into every dish crafted in Herringbone’s kitchen.

Prime – For a more traditional Thanksgiving dinner, visit Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Prime Steakhouse. In this elegant atmosphere complete with velvet drapes and luxurious finishes, you’ll find an expansive menu full of the savory dishes that any Thanksgiving-lover craves. For an experience uniquely Vegas, try securing a table on the garden patio, which overlooks the Bellagio fountains.

Attractions to Attend

Thanksgiving festivities extend past the big meal. Once the forks are set down, the credit cards come out and the Black Friday shopping commences, as does the world-class entertainment. Some of our favorite holiday-themed events in Las Vegas include:

Harvest Show – The Harvest Show decorates the Bellagio Conservatory with gorgeous Fall foliage. Pathways wind under archways of warm-hued leaves while intricate patterns bring the foliage to life. Visiting the Harvest Show is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the comfort of Fall with a Vegas twist. The 2017 display, Proud as a Peacock, features a magnificent explosion of flowers blanketing two towering peacocks. As guests meander through the conservatory, they are greeted with hanging silk weeping willow branches, playful scarecrows, flower-filled pumpkins, and the familiar warm colors of Fall.

Cactus Garden Holiday Lights – Though decorative lights are often associated with Christmas, Vegas is not one to limit the flashy fun. At the Ethel M. Botanical Garden, brilliant lights are displayed throughout November and December, making it a unique Thanksgiving in Las Vegas activity. The sprawling walkways are lined with thousands of colorful lights, making it a luminous spectacle perfect for couples and families alike. Cacti are draped with thousands of lights, resulting in a radiant display of desert plants like you’ve never seen. Visiting the Cactus Garden Holiday Lights is the perfect way to celebrate the onset of the holiday season.

Black Friday Shopping

The Vegas shopping scene pauses for no occasion and looks for any excuse to draw visitors. During Thanksgiving week, and especially Black Friday, the city is buzzing with shoppers in search of bargains. While most luxury retailers will offer minimal discounts, more casual shopping destinations like the LINQ promenade, Fashion Show Mall, and Las Vegas North Premium Outlets will be discounting products and services heavily. With over 300,000 out-of-towners flocking to the city for the holiday, Black Friday shopping in Vegas is sure to be an experience like no other.

Amongst the Vegas energy are brilliant displays of Fall decor and one thing is certain – a Thanksgiving in Las Vegas  is unlike any other and is not to be missed. The holidays are a wonderful time to bring the whole family together, and celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of something new. Tahiti Village is a family-friendly resort located centrally to all the mentioned excursions and we would love to host your Las Vegas Thanksgiving. Just remember to book early, as rooms are filling up fast!

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign as you enter Las Vegas.

What Will Las Vegas Look Like in the Future

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While its roots may be planted in gaming and entertainment, Vegas is expanding, creating a bright future for the city, its residents, and the tourists that travel from all over the world to enjoy it. More job opportunities with the continuous growth of the medical and tech fields are resulting in new residential construction and improvements in the public school systems. City planners are making sure to keep downtown Vegas fun, fresh, and convenient with new vertical expansions on the northern end of the strip and long-term plans to replace vehicular traffic with pedestrian-friendly monorails. The city’s plans to grow are conjuring up a collective excitement surrounding the future of Las Vegas, the entertainment capital.

Within the next decade, Las Vegas has plans to…

Welcome pro sports teams.

Las Vegas’s efforts to acquire professional sports teams have been extremely successful. 2017 saw the establishment of the Las Vegas Golden Knights Ice Hockey team belonging to the National Hockey League, while 2020 will see the movement of the Raiders from Oakland to Vegas. The city is set to establish a Women’s National Basketball Association team in 2018, along with the Las Vegas Lights FC minor league soccer team. The additions of these professional sports teams will attract fans to the city to help with Las Vegas growth, with the brand new football stadium alone projected to add 1 percent to Vegas’s tourism volume, according to the Las Vegas Sun.

Add medical research centers and facilities.

Among the enhancements that Vegas plans to carry out in the near future is a Medical District complete with state-of-the-art facilities, research centers, and schools. The medical field, along with technology, is one of the two fastest growing industries in the city. The city has invested millions of dollars into the development of the Medical District since 2013. However, according to the Las Vegas Review Journal, the city plans to funnel nearly $100 million more in planned investment in the Medical District beyond 2018, catalyzing Las Vegas growth. Within the next decade, the Las Vegas Medical District is expected to flourish, creating jobs and a collaborative medical community.

Build upon the north end of the Strip.

Known as the less active of the two sides, the northern end of the Strip will be seeing some major enhancements in the near future of Las Vegas. Vertical construction of Resorts World, expansion of the Convention Center, and a domed stadium for the Raiders will help to balance out the northern and southern ends of the Strip. An influx of traffic to the northern end will also result in an enhanced transportation system throughout the downtown area.

Expand roads and decongest Strip traffic.

Vegas is often ridiculed for its vehicular congestion both on the Strip and on freeways feeding in and out of the city. Several major projects plan to add lanes to existing freeways, add an HOV flyover bridge from Interstate 95 to Interstate 15, and improve the efficiency of freeway on ramps and off ramps. In addition to smoother flowing traffic on surrounding freeways, the next decade will also see a pedestrian-friendly Strip. According to Las Vegas Review Journal, the Strip will eventually transform into a vehicle-free pedestrian mall complete with elevated monorails to easily transport people from one side to the other.

Improve the public school systems.

Nevada education officials are valiantly pushing for a new student funding formula that will more efficiently allocate resources to students based on need. Another priority taking precedence is the reorganization of the Clark County School District, which gives more power to parents and principals. The combined efforts of the new student funding formula and the district reorganization will result in a more appropriate distribution of funding and a more specific budgeting plan based on the needs of each school. Allowing parents and principals to step into enhanced decision-making roles will mean more local involvement in the Las Vegas public education and the future of Las Vegas schools.

Build more homes.

Following the growth of the medical and tech industries in Vegas is a thriving housing market. As companies expand, job openings attract new Vegas residents. A healthy balance of supply and demand is being observed in the city, as well as a median housing cost proportionate to the median income. This means that most working residents can comfortably afford housing. With tourism set to remain on track and new industries predicted to boom, the future of the Las Vegas housing market looks bright!

These city developments have one thing in common: they will all help to make Las Vegas an even better place to visit and live. Growth in new industries and well-funded public school systems will result in a more educated workforce and more job openings. Seamless transportation in and out of the city, professional sports teams, and new, exciting downtown projects will draw even more visitors, maintaining Las Vegas’s status as the entertainment capital of the world!

Las Vegas Red Rock Canyon camping areas.

Desert Camping Deciphered: What to Bring and Where to Go

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There are few things more enjoyable than taking a short drive to the desert, spending some disconnected time with family, and escaping the rat race of the city. Camping in the desert, whether in Las Vegas, Palm Springs, or Mojave, has surged in popularity – and for good reason! Camping in the desert is relaxing, affordable, and scenic.

But before you grab your tent and grill, let’s look at some of the best places to camp in the desert, as well as go through a checklist of everything you will need to make your desert camping trip one to remember.

Best Places to Camp Near Las Vegas:

The deserts surrounding Las Vegas are some of the most beautiful spots in the world, and fall is the perfect time to go camping because the weather has started to cool down, but it’s still warm enough to get outside. Below are some of our favorite camping spots near Vegas:

1. Lake Mead

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is about 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas and features a number of wonderful camping spots for the whole family. One thing that is great about Lake Mead is that although it’s in the middle of the desert, it has plenty of water activities like boat rentals, jet skiing, and more. Boulder Beach is one of the most popular campgrounds in Lake Mead and there you can rent a houseboat and enjoy the water at your leisure. This site is open year-round and takes reservations. Some sites around Lake Mead, though, are first come, first served!

2. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is named appropriately as this park is home to beautiful red sandstone mountains and offers quite the view to visitors. Fall and spring are the best seasons to visit this awe-inspiring park because of their moderate temperatures (the park gets below freezing in the winter and over 100 degrees in the summer!). Atlatl Rock Campground and Arch Rock Campground are some of the best places to stay if you visit this desert campsite and come fully-equipped with barbeques, picnic tables, fire rings, and more. Expect an hour drive from downtown Las Vegas to Valley of Fire (and it’s totally worth it!).

3. Spring Mountains National Recreation Area

Just 45 minutes outside of Las Vegas is Spring Mountains, a campsite located within the Toiyabe National Forest. Spring Mountains can accommodate cars, tents, RVs and motorhomes and features beautiful biological diversity and rugged rocks that provide outstanding hiking.

4. Red Rock Canyon

For those looking for a quick weekend getaway from the city, look no further than Red Rock Canyon. A quick 20-minute drive will take you to some of the area’s best campsites that include amazing red rocks, vegetation, and more. The area has one main developed campground that is open from early September until May (the best season for camping in the desert). If you are making the trek to Red Rock Canyon, take note that unlike other campgrounds, this one doesn’t have electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups, and no showers! It’s just you and nature, camping au naturale! But it is a beautiful site regardless and perfect for the family that wants to rough it for a few nights.

What to Bring:

When camping in the desert, preparation is essential. There’s nothing worse than getting stuck in the middle of nowhere without the right shoes or cooking equipment. Below is a comprehensive checklist of desert camping necessities:

-Water, water, water! Bottles, filters, purification systems, you name it! Water and the desert are best friends.
-Food (plan your meals ahead of time to make sure you have all the ingredients)
-Backpack and day pack
-Tent and all needed equipment (stakes, pools, weather-proof guard, etc.)
-Tarps
-Rope (just in case!)
-Sleeping bags and sleeping mats
-Knife/Multi-purpose tool
-First-aid kit (remember to double-check it before you go!)
-Flashlight
-Matches
-Cooking equipment
-Sunscreen
-Sunglasses and hat (the desert sun means business!)
-UV-protection clothing, like long-sleeved shirts
-Lip balm with UV-protection
-Hiking boots
-Jackets, both warm and waterproof
-Bug spray
-Hygiene items
-Toilet paper
-Shovel

If this list has your head spinning (digging a hole for, um, what exactly?), desert camping might not be the vacation you are looking for. Instead, why not book at night at Tahiti Village? You don’t even have to bring your own toilet paper!

NHL Golden Knights logo.

Get Ready for the Golden Knights

17 South Booze & Bites,  Blog,  Family Friendly,  Las Vegas Activities,  Las Vegas EventsPosted on

The 2017-2018 NHL season is officially underway and this year brings new excitement to residents and visitors of Las Vegas because it’s the inaugural year for the Vegas Golden Knights, the city’s professional ice hockey team. Although hockey games aren’t new to Sin City (there have been several games played here before), the Vegas Golden Knights is the first major professional sports franchise to call Las Vegas home. Their debut only adds to the ongoing activity and thrill of life in the desert.

Las Vegas Golden Knights Schedule Overview

The Vegas Golden Knights NHL 2017 season schedule includes play on multiple nights during the week, every week, which gives visitors a chance to catch a game, possibly two depending on their travel plans. It’s also perfect as part of a stay-cation itinerary with plenty to do in and around the venue.

The team is hosting the San Jose Sharks the day after Thanksgiving, which is a great way to spend family time or get out of the post-turkey daze from the day before. Play continues into the first week of April leaving plenty of opportunities to see the team take the ice.

T-Mobile Arena Seating for Golden Knights Games

If you’ve never been to a hockey game before, the speed of the skaters and energy of the crowd is an experience like no other. And you can see it firsthand in one of the premiere venues on the Strip. The fairly new T-Mobile Arena has had a rotating number of events since its opening in April 2016 and is also the official home of the Vegas Golden Knights.

There are several seating and pricing levels to accommodate all ticket needs. They range from Upper Bowl Seating starting at $25 and goes all the way up to Premium Seating VIP Glass Seats beginning at $350. When selecting seats, it’s up to just how close you want to be to the action. Right next door is The Park, an outdoor venue with a mix of bars, restaurants, and live entertainment to complete the experience either before or after the game.

Gameday Hotspots

There is no shortage of places to satisfy hungry appetites or grab a few drinks. Beerhaus is a popular, casual spot that has $4 select draft beers and hot dogs from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM every day. Enjoy a local brew like Big Dog’s Brewing Las Vegas Lager or Sin City Say Hello to Amber and load up on bar snacks such as pretzels and beer cheese dip or the Beerhaus Brat, an IPA chedderwurst topped with smoked bacon and onion jam!

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, which is part of Blvd Plaza, is also a popular place because you can’t go wrong when ordering one of their specialty pies. They also have small hot and cold plates with options such as meatballs, baked goat cheese, caprese salad, and more.

Additionally, if you’re staying at Tahiti Village, it’s only a 10-minute drive to the T-Mobile Arena. Stop by 17° South Booze & Bites, which offers plenty of tasty eats for a pre- or post-game celebration, including the 17 South Burger with bacon, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and house spread, specialty pizzas, appetizers, salads, and entrees. We’re also conveniently located by Town Square, a place with several restaurant options that will feed any craving. Our complimentary shuttle service will take you directly there, only a short, five-minute drive away.

Getting to Know the Golden Knights

The team has recruited plenty of young talent, plus veterans who have come from other NHL teams. Right wing James Neal was part of the Nashville Predators’ first Stanley Cup Finals appearance and was an alternate captain during his time with the team. His leadership makes him a great fit to guide the Golden Knights.

Left wing David Perron was a top scorer for the St. Louis Blues with 159 career goals, which definitely should help boost the Golden Knights in their first year. Shea Theodore, Marc-Andre Fleury, and Deryk Engelland are all also touted to be top performers for the team. However, time will tell who will rise to the top as fan and league favorites.

Finally, Chance the Gila Monster made his official debut as the team mascot and will appear as a regular at the rink to build a community and fan base around the NHL’s newest hockey team. The addition of the Vegas Golden Knights makes a visit to the city even more alluring than before. Are you planning to attend a game during this inaugural season?