Category: Local Attractions

Back for seconds: Terry and his fast dragster set to make their Tahiti Village return!

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When the NHRA Nationals pays its biannual visit to Las Vegas, you can count on two things: 1) Terry McMillen sending his 8,000-horsepower dragster down the track at more than 300 miles per hour and 2) Terry staying here at Tahiti Village when he’s through.

As the official resort of Terry and his crew, we’ll be hosting a meet and greet with the top fuel drag racer from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Wednesday, Oct. 25, ahead of his appearance at the NHRA Nationals at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Terry will be chatting with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos next to his Amalie Oil dragster from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. beneath the porte cochere. You may even have the opportunity to sit inside the cockpit!

Terry’s team will unload the dragster at approximately 10 a.m. Refreshments and popcorn will be provided. For more information on Terry, please visit www.terrymcmillen.com. For more information on the race, please go to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway website at www.lvms.com or www.nhra.com, the National Hot Rod Association’s site.

Carved pumpkin in front of the Welcome to Las Vegas sign.

When It Comes to Halloween, Vegas Knows What It’s Doing

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Las Vegas has its fair share of interesting characters; even more so during October’s Halloween season. Fall is a wonderful time to visit Sin City because the temperatures have become milder and tourist season has started to subside. However, visitors from all over still head to Las Vegas during this time of the year to take part in the Halloween events in Las Vegas that pop up around the city. For a night of fun (or fright), Sin City has you covered across the spectrum with things to do.

Freakling Bros. Trilogy of Terror

Scary terrors for the brave abound at all three Freakling Bros haunted houses. Choose from Coven of 13, Castle Vampyre, Gates of Hell, or get admission to all three, if you dare. Each interactive experience follows its own theme and is sure to elicit plenty of screams. If you think the haunted house experience is a breeze, test yourself at The Victim Experience, suited for only the most extreme of thrill seekers. Reading the rules is required before signing up for this one-of-a-kind haunt because it’s definitely not a Halloween attraction for the faint of heart.

Haunted Harvest at Springs Preserve

For a more family-friendly haunt, Haunted Harvest provides an evening of fun for all ages with carnival games, a petting zoo, a “haunted” train, and hay maze among its various activities. There are also plenty of treats to keep the kids satisfied and costumes are encouraged by everyone in attendance. Out of all the Halloween events in Las Vegas, this specific one runs for three weekends starting on Friday, October 13th and running through Sunday, October 29th from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Fright Dome at Circus Circus

Prepare for a little bit of everything at Fright Dome at Circus Circus, now celebrating its 15th year anniversary. This Halloween-themed event is more than just a haunted house but rather a full experience complete with scare zones, live shows, and other scary areas inviting you to enter at your own risk. Tickets are on sale now through October 31st. Fright Dome covers 250,000 square-feet of space with six haunted houses, four scare zones, 4D theaters, and rides. Find out what the fright is all about here.

McKee Ranch Pumpkin Patch

Switching gears, another option suitable for all ages is a visit to the McKee Ranch. There is a petting zoo with goats, donkeys, horses, bunnies, and chickens. There are also hayrides and other pumpkin and fall themed events for the kids to enjoy. There is a $20 requested donation per family for a day full of fun. Pack a picnic lunch or dine out of the onsite food truck. And of course, leave time to pick out the perfect pumpkin.

Fear the Walking Dead Survival

Fans of the Fear the Walking Dead show or zombie fanatics, in general, can seek out this newest thrill adventure located at the Fremont Street Experience. There is an escape room, maze, and other multisensory features to this zombie outbreak attraction. The experience opened over the summer and isn’t limited to only Halloween, but is still a great way to celebrate the holiday. Following your trip through zombieland, make your way down Fremont Street and check out the ongoing activity always happening in downtown Las Vegas.

Fun Costume Ideas and Snacks for Halloween

If your idea of a good Halloween time is less about where you go and more about what you wear, there is an endless number of costumes to choose from. Elvis is a popular costume regardless of the time of year but other popular choices include superheroes, mummies, ghosts, and family-themed costumes like The Addams Family or the Flintstones. Get creative and host your own party right in the comfort of your own Tahiti Village suite, which come equipped with a kitchen and dining area. Easy food ideas include:

  1. Mummy Hot Dogs – Simply wrap readymade dough “mummy-style” around a hot dog and bake.
  2. Bones ‘n’ Blood – Use store bought breadstick dough, cut the end of each strip, and roll down to create the bone shape.After baking, use marinara for dipping for a fun and spooky snack.
  3. Dirt ‘n’ Worms – This easy dessert has always been a party favorite and is well-suited for Halloween. Create layers in a glass, alternating between chocolate pudding and crushed Oreos as the “dirt.” Top with gummy worms and plastic spiders and you have a creepy, sweet treat.

You can also serve a buffet-style of finger foods and decorate the table with festive decor in orange and black for a fairly inexpensive cost. The ways you can celebrate Halloween in Las Vegas is only limited by your time and imagination. There is plenty to do but also see when it comes to fall in the city. Enjoy exploring Las Vegas during this extra festive time of the year!

Woman in a yoga pose in the desert.

Yoga in the Desert

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For the sake of balance, letting loose and having fun in the glittering city of Vegas is often countered with detox workouts like Pilates or yoga. Finding a relaxing yoga oasis in the middle of the desert can seem like an impossible task. However, amidst all the pumping clubs, buzzing casinos, and dazzling shows, there is a diverse community of dedicated yogis. Below are some of the highest-rated yoga studios in Las Vegas where you can enjoy a practice of all kinds.

Modo Yoga Las Vegas

Modo yoga is a type of yoga that combines the fundamentals of traditional and therapeutic yoga in a heated environment. At Modo Yoga Las Vegas, a welcoming team of skilled instructors guide you through the practice in a judgment-free and socially conscious environment. For new members, an entire month of unlimited yoga in Las Vegas is only $40, making it accessible to most yogis.

Body Heat Hot Pilates and Yoga

This studio is committed to helping their clients achieve their highest level of fitness while enjoying the journey. Body Heat Pilates and Yoga offers a variety of classes ranging from beginner to advanced including Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Sculpt, Baptiste, boot camp, Shred, and Barre. The spa-like quality of the facilities adds a luxurious touch to the client experience. Drop in classes start at $20 and memberships are available starting at $89.

Blue Sky Yoga

A donation-based studio located in north Vegas, Blue Sky Yoga offers an intimate, authentic experience in a modest and cozy atmosphere. Locals flock to this studio for its diverse classes, special events, and community feel. Local artwork decorates the walls while the small studio room makes for an intimate class setting. This casual environment is perfect for those looking for a low key and low-cost experience.

Sin City Yoga

Known for their tight-knit community and knowledgeable instructors, Sin City Yoga focuses on providing a well-rounded experience for their clients. While most of their offerings are in the form of yoga classes, the studio also offers teacher trainings, Reiki sessions, and corporate private classes. A small, intimate studio space enhances the charming community feel and affordable membership options are available so that everyone has a chance to practice.

The Grateful Yogi

Born from a passion for yoga, love, and healing, The Grateful Yogi provides guests with a pure, authentic class experience. From vigorous workouts to mellow candlelight flows, this studio’s class offerings are consistent favorites among locals and visitors. A small fee of $25 can get new students unlimited classes for one week.

103 Hot Pilates and Yoga

On a mission to provide functional, clean, and welcoming facilities with a yoga-for-everybody feel, 103 Hot Pilates and Yoga has become a favorite among both beginner and advanced yogis. The team of instructors has a deep knowledge of the physical and psychological benefits of a consistent yoga practice and will help you create a plan so that you can achieve your individual goals. A $30 Intro Sweat Month will grant you access to 30 days of unlimited yoga so you can try out different class styles and instructors.

Barefoot Sanctuary

If you’re looking for a more exotic, diverse experience, head to Barefoot Sanctuary for belly dance, circus arts, earth care, and yoga. The team at Barefoot Sanctuary aims to foster a collaborative and creative environment infused with a sense of nature. Yoga classes embrace an expressive style in which the body’s natural restorative ability is highlighted. The classes are open to all levels and rates start at only $15 for a drop-in class.

Evolution Yoga

The instructional team at Evolution Yoga utilizes a mix of strength training, TRX, barre, and yoga to create a well-rounded and diverse experience for their clients. The variety of class styles allows clients to participate in a well-rounded assortment of experiences with one membership. Instructors are dedicated to helping each client achieve their fitness goals and will recommend a combination of classes and workouts that will help you get there.

Salt Room LV

Differentiated by their utilization of halotherapy, or salt therapy, Salt Room LV provides clients with a unique experience that is known to be helpful in relieving allergies, respiratory conditions, and skin conditions. Halo-yoga classes are available, which combine salt therapy with the benefits of yoga. The studio also offers Pilates classes, guided meditation, and spa services like facials and massages. With a three-month trial membership for $249 per month, Salt Room LV is on the pricier side, but the spa-like amenities and therapeutic benefits are worth it.

A yoga practice comes with a multitude of benefits including improved flexibility, increased strength, a clearer mind, and detoxification – which may be the most applicable benefit during a trip to Vegas. This booming city has a surprisingly prominent community of yogis that are happy to help you add relaxation and rejuvenation to your vacation itinerary.

Las Vegas exit.

Most Interesting and Unique Businesses in Vegas

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When you think of Las Vegas, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Gambling? Shows? The Las Vegas Strip? While these are all synonymous with the Vegas vibe, Sin City has several sides to it; many of which you may not have seen.

Tucked inside the historical casinos and in buildings off the busy Strip are hidden gems, unique businesses, and interesting places to visit that will allow you to experience Vegas on a different level, the Las Vegas business side of the city. If the Strip is what Vegas looks like all made up in full costume and makeup, then these places are what it looks like when its being its natural self. Or as “natural” as it gets when it comes to the Entertainment Capital of the World, that is larger than life.

The Mob Museum

Back in its heyday, Vegas was a hubbub of gangster activities as the casino-centric mecca we all know and love was first being formed. The Mob Museum was once a federal courthouse and post office until it was sold to the city of Las Vegas for $1 in 2000. Twelve years later, the museum opened on Valentine’s Day and now gives ticket holders a chance to learn about the ins and outs of early Las Vegas and the mob bosses that ran it. Locals get $7 off admission and every Tuesday, Nevada residents get buy one get one free admission after 1:00 PM.

The Hydrant Club

Humans aren’t the only ones who can experience the VIP treatment in Vegas. Pups can get extra special attention as well, if they’re part of The Hydrant Club that is. This Las Vegas business is a place where your dog can go to be social and roam free. There are training classes, boarding stays, and plenty of off-leash play to keep your four-legged friend happy. To receive full benefits, dog owners must submit an application to see if their pet is chosen. Once approved, they get as many puppy perks as they can handle.

The Space

Locals unite in this art complex that was created for and used by members of the Las Vegas art scene. The Space houses performance space, a recording studio, rehearsal studios, and a piano bar and lounge, all which supports the creative community. Every Monday night event is devoted to raising money and awareness for local causes and charities. Whether you want to entertain, create, or simply spectate, The Space is the Las Vegas business location for any and all creative minds.

The fact that Las Vegas is flooded with artistic talent is interesting and unique, but Sin City has always been a performance/showcase type of city with the art scene growing stronger every day. Rather than seeing another show on the Las Vegas Strip or losing your money at the casino slots, pay a visit to The Space, or another local arts space and support the talent we have right here in our local neighborhoods.

Shark Reef

Despite the fact that Las Vegas is a desert landscape, there are still ocean waters within the walls of some casinos on the Strip. The Las Vegas business, Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay gives visitors a chance to view sharks up close and personal (Nevada residents get $3 off admission). If that’s not thrilling enough for you, take a dive with the sharks if you dare. The Dive with Sharks exhibit is open to certified divers with a purchased reservation who can then dive in and swim with over 30 exotic sharks. Definitely not something you get to do every day, especially in the desert!

A Local Look at Las Vegas

Beyond the bright lights and busy streets, there are over 600,000 residents who live, work, and play in the Las Vegas arena. Local business is what keeps the area thriving even in the pockets set away from the Strip. Take time to visit some of these points of interest or the hundreds of other local haunts throughout the city. Las Vegas is not only a great place to visit but also a wonderful place to live.

On your next trip to Sin City, think about supporting a few Las Vegas local businesses and getting to know the city on a different level. And for residents who want to play tourist for the day, schedule a staycation and see just how much is available right in your own backyard.

Friends dining at the table together.

Dining Around the World All in One Location: Sin City

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Dining options in Las Vegas have seen quite a boost over the years. Buffets are still synonymous with Vegas cuisine, but even the endless dishes lining these Sin City staples have been elevated. However, there’s more than the casino buffet to look forward to for your next dining experience. Las Vegas is a culinary hotspot attracting chefs from all over the world to open restaurants and further expand the food offerings available right here in the desert.

Nearly every type of cuisine is represented in these Las Vegas restaurants, which means you can go plan a food-centric trip and still not manage to try it all. However, it’s a challenge we think travelers are willing to try because each restaurant is trying to outdo the competition and keep their tables full of hungry diners. There are always new places opening and new dishes being created. Take your taste buds on a trip around the world by trying some of these places to eat in Las Vegas.

Thailand

Le Thai, DTLV

Although not as conspicuous as its Strip counterparts, Le Thai is a favorite among locals and visitors who have been instructed to seek out what many call “the best place for Thai in Vegas.” Located off downtown’s popular Fremont Street, this restaurant boasts quality food and affordable prices. The expansive menu includes Thai standard favorites like Pad Thai and a range of curries, while also putting a unique spin on certain dishes like Short Rib Fried Rice and Waterfall Beef. Get an authentic Thai meal in a casual Las Vegas restaurant setting for a taste of East meets West.

Greece

Estiatorio Milos, Cosmopolitan

Mediterranean-style cuisine is popular in Vegas, but a truly authentic, Greek-only food experience isn’t as easy to come by. Fortunately, one of the top dining options in Las Vegas offers just that. Restaurateur Costas Spiliadis serves up Greek favorites, as well as specialties like the Milos Special. This zucchini and eggplant dish is a fried concoction cooled by a creamy, tzatziki sauce and graviera cheese saganaki. From fresh seafood to full Greek spreads, guests can count on delicious fare from Estiatorio Milos.

Tahiti

17° South Booze & Bites, Tahiti Village

Tahiti Village guests need not travel far for a tropical-inspired dining experience. The onsite restaurant serves up vacation-ready cocktails like mai tais, daquiris, and margaritas, in addition to several specialty libations. Menu favorites like Wagyu Sloppy Joe Nachos, the Ahi Tuna Burger, and 17 South Jerk Chicken Penne Pasta all pair well with your drink of choice. There are also more standard options like create-your-own pizzas and chicken tenders to satiate your hunger any time of day.

France

Bouchon, The Venetian

Award-winning chef Thomas Keller has made Bouchon one of the best places to eat in Las Vegas. Indulge in the restaurant’s Caviar d’Esturgeon, Parfait de Foie Gras, and Steak Bouchon or enjoy a simple plate of mussels with a glass of crisp, white wine. Quality ingredients and advanced culinary techniques create impressive dishes without a lot of fuss. Be whisked away to the French countryside by making a reservation at one of the city’s top fine dining restaurants.

England

Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, Caesars Palace

Experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional English pub and grill from one of the world’s most notorious chefs. Gordon Ramsay has his namesake on several restaurants along the Las Vegas Strip but his restaurant in Caesars Palace is one that never disappoints. It’s casual food with a fine dining flair and full of the quality of flavor Ramsay demands from his chefs-in-training. Start with the ultimate in comfort food, Pigs in a Blanket, and then, go for the Yorkshire Ale Batter Fish & Chips, or Shepherd’s Pie for a taste of England right here in Las Vegas.

Japan

Morimoto Las Vegas, MGM Grand

Revered Iron Chef Morimoto has been a staple on the Las Vegas restaurant scene for years. His modern take on Japanese cuisine continues to delight and entice diners, despite the influx of up-and-coming dining options that sometimes are nothing more than a flash in the pan. Morimoto Las Vegas is a favored classic along the Strip offering up entrees such as Braised Black Cod and Duck Duck Goose. There is rarely a misstep at this popular place, which is to be expected from one of the most beloved celebrity chefs.

We couldn’t be luckier to have so much delicious food right at our fingertips available from every corner of Las Vegas. This barely covers the kind of cuisine you can find when you travel here, but it gives you an idea of what to look forward to in terms of Las Vegas restaurants. As the culinary scene continues to blossom in Sin City, you can dine around the world and have a taste from all around the globe while never leaving Vegas!

Life is Beautiful Lineup

How Life is Beautiful Has Changed the Atmosphere of DTLV

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It doesn’t seem long ago that Fremont Street was the sleepy, little sister of the Las Vegas Strip. It was considered everyone’s second choice because the Strip is all about the lights, camera, and the action. However, the vibe of downtown culture has slowly begun to shift thanks to the emergence of headlining entertainment, art galleries, dining options, and events created exclusively for downtown, such as the Life Is Beautiful Music & Art Festival.

Life Is Beautiful Las Vegas is a three-day event that debuted in 2013 and has quickly evolved into one of the biggest entertainment festivals in the country. It covers 18 blocks of downtown Las Vegas and embraces the spirit of unity, creativity, and optimism; not to mention top-billed musical acts, art in all forms, and food and libations to keep the party going strong all weekend long.

This year’s Las Vegas music festival is slated for the weekend of September 22 – 24 and is expected to draw well over 100,000 people to the downtown area. Are you in?

Who’s Performing

Music is such an easy way to bring people together from all walks of life. Whatever your musical preferences, you’ll most likely find a (perhaps, new) favorite here. Chance the Rapper, Muse, and Lorde lead the way for this year’s musical lineup, but dozens of other options, including Cage the Elephant, MGMT, Wiz Khalifa, and Milky Chance, will be performing as well. The eclectic musical lineup is spread out over three days so attendees have a chance to see as many acts as possible. The festival gates open at 2 p.m. daily and closes at 1 a.m. Get there early and claim your spot close to the stage.

What to Expect

If it’s your first time to Life Is Beautiful, the name of the game is to pace yourself. That’s why the event is held over an entire weekend, plus a little extra. It allows attendees ample opportunity to see, hear, taste, and experience as much as possible from sunup to sundown and beyond. There will be interactive arts displays, rows upon rows of culinary delights, ongoing musical sets, and of course, people watching, which is reason alone to attend.

Where to Stay

The event offers hotel discounts through Hotels for Hope which also will make a donation to Charity Project 150, a 501(c)3 non-profit benefiting homeless high school students in the area. It’s recommended to stay in downtown Las Vegas, since walking will be your best bet for easy transportation. If you’re staying at Tahiti Village, take advantage of the onsite shuttle service that provides scheduled drop-offs and pickups to different areas of Vegas, including the Fremont Street Experience.

How to Prepare

Protect yourself from the heat. Although the concert is in September, you can still expect hot temperatures during the day. Make sure to stay hydrated and regularly apply sunscreen. You’ll be allowed to take in factory sealed water bottles (2 1-liter bottles per person), which will be a savior when the sun beats down.

Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking and on your feet for most of the time, so you’ll want to wear shoes that have a good cushion. It’s recommended to not wear open-toed shoes because with a crowd like this, it’s more than likely you’re going to get stepped on, spilled on, or worse.

Enjoy the moment. Rather than rushing from performance to the next and sharing every moment on your social media, take in the experience of being at one of the fastest growing festivals that offers more than just music. Take a break from the concert stage and wander along the streets to appreciate the art displays, sample food from multiple vendors, or head into the Fremont Street Experience and get a glimpse of the downtown life.

Welcome to DTLV

Events like Life Is Beautiful Las Vegas have changed the vibe of downtown. DTLV has experienced an emergence over the past few years and is now looked to as a vibrant hotspot that stays true to its cultural roots. The noticeable boost of visitors to DTLV has shined a new light on the hospitality industry in this area of the city as well. The Las Vegas glitz and glamour is no longer reserved solely for the Strip. As crowds continue to make their way to unique districts of downtown, guests can expect to be welcomed with open arms.

Film and movie reel

Recreate Your Favorite Vegas Films

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Sin City is an ideal background for Hollywood films due to the pace of the city, glitz of the casinos, and the rowdiness of the crowds. It’s likely some of your favorite movies were set in Vegas, either shot on location or recreated on a studio lot, and you may have recreated a movie scene or quote a popular line a time or two over the years.

With the wide variety of movies filmed in and around Las Vegas, what better way to experience the city than recreating your favorite scenes from Vegas movies past and present? Explore different areas of the desert, slip into your favorite Las Vegas film character, and become part of the action. From The Hangover to Ocean’s 11, let’s see which scenes are the most iconic when it comes to movies Las Vegas is best known for.

Pure Country – 1992

George Strait fans will remember his starring role as country superstar Dusty in Pure Country. Although the majority of the film takes place on the road or on Texan farmland, the closing scenes where he serenades love interest, Harley, were filmed at the Mirage at a Las Vegas rodeo event. Country music fans everywhere made the film’s soundtrack a success, although unfortunately, the box office numbers weren’t as favorable.

To recreate this country moment in time, belt out “I Cross My Heart” over drinks at one of the Mirage’s restaurant lounges.

Swingers – 1996

If you’ve ever uttered the phrases, “Vegas, baby” or “You’re so money, and you don’t even know it,” then it’s likely you’re a fan of the Jon Favreau/Vince Vaughn 90’s classic, Swingers. Though mostly set in Los Angeles, the duo head to Las Vegas to help Mike (Favreau) get over his breakup and struggles as a comedian. Both the Stardust Resort & Casino and Fremont Hotel and Casino in downtown Las Vegas were used for interior and exterior shots in the film in what some consider one of the most beloved Vegas movies.

To recreate this bromance comedy, suit up with your best pal and stroll down Fremont Street in sunglasses, telling each other how “money” the other person is.

Vegas Vacation – 1997

America’s favorite family – The Griswolds – take their adventures on the road to Las Vegas in Vegas Vacation. With various scenes shot around the city and just beyond, some of the highlights include the Hoover Dam, Neon Museum, the Mirage, MGM Grand, Riviera, and all around downtown Las Vegas. One of the best parts of the film is when the family rides off into the proverbial sunset, each in the brand-new cars Rusty won from playing the slot machines.

To recreate this family classic, head to the Hoover Dam and see how many times you can refer to the “dam tour” before your friends cut you off.

Ocean’s 11 (2001)

In the remake of the Rat Pack, Las Vegas film throwback, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and the rest of the cast bring a modern day dapperness to the film about a casino heist. Their plan to hit the Bellagio as one of three casinos meant plenty of facetime for the resort, including extensive shots of the casino floor and of course, the famous fountain shows outside.

To recreate closing scenes of the first movie in the trilogy, sign up for MGM Resorts’ M Life Rewards Program and choose the song for the The Fountains of Bellagio show. Might we suggest Claire du Lune?

What Happens in Vegas (2008)

The unofficial motto of Vegas was made into a movie starring Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher. They meet as strangers, drunkenly get married, and hit the jackpot. Since they’re now married, it means they must split the money. When they return home, they must live together for six months and each will receive half; if not, the winnings will be tied up in litigation. It’s a romantic comedy, so if you haven’t seen it, you can guess how it ends.

To recreate the rom-com, skip the marriage part and take a few selfies outside the Planet Hollywood Wedding Chapel where the marriage scene was filmed.

The Hangover – 2009

In this instant blockbuster hit, Phil (Bradley Cooper) and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) actually recreate another Vegas-set film, Rain Man, with their escalator scene in Caesars Palace. The ensemble cast went on to make two follow-ups to this 2009 movie, which raked in $467 million worldwide.

To create your own wolfpack scene, take your own escalator ride in Caesars Palace with your crew, a much easier option than getting a mattress on the casino rooftop or ordering a live tiger to the room.

It’s hard not to be a little star struck by Las Vegas. So many iconic television shows and films have been shot and set here, you never know when you might run into a celebrity. And if you can’t spot one, then at least you can recreate some of your movie scenes and act out your own versions as a memory to hold onto forever. The allure of Sin City is simply undeniable. Which movies top your list of favorites?

Casino poker chips

The Evolution of the Casino Chip

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Picture this: you’ve just touched down in Las Vegas, NV for the start of your vacation and you are greeted by the site of gambling. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to avoid the casinos and the other visitors looking to take home multiple winnings throughout your time in Sin City. As you experience the different casinos available on the Strip, have you ever stopped to wonder how the casino chip came about? Well, get ready for a journey through the world of gaming in the Entertainment Capital of the World, and understand more about how currency was decided for the 40+ casinos available to you on the Las Vegas Strip.

Where did the casino chip come from?

As you hear the clinking sound of chips you can’t help but associated the Las Vegas lights and action! In the beginning, when the first gaming venue was opened in Venice around the 17th century, the gaming world was run by cash for nearly 200 years. Cash as a currency was how it began, but it was during the Gold Rush days of the West when gamers of chance began to use gold and silver nuggets, gold dust, metal tokens, and chips made of ivory as their “bank” for wagering purposes.

As poker players began to grow in number, the use of ivory chips and gold nuggets became much easier to forge, encouraging establishments to brand their own chips and develop a common denominator across all gaming platforms. Once different gambling locations began to develop their own unique brands, it was during the 1880s when they began to manufacture the uniform design of the poker chip. This involved a circular design across all gambling currency made up of compressed sand and clay.

Throughout the years, color was incorporated in the new design to help overcome the confusion of different currency exchange at the tables. As the common look of the poker chip was developed, it was then spread to other gaming options such as blackjack, craps, faro, and roulette. When casino gambling was legalized in Nevada in the 1930s, casino owners were better prepared for the high volume of gamblers with the new currency established and set in place.

How has the casino chip design changed?

The majority of poker chips exchanged in the gaming world are created from a composite that includes clay, but, in the end, is a much more durable version of clay. A variety of Las Vegas casinos also consist of ceramic chips, similar to the currency used for a poker game held at your home. But, how has the design changed throughout the years? How did casinos decide on the colors and all the minor features of these small tokens to make them so intriguing to gamblers?

In the beginning, some of the earliest casino chips only consisted of ivory and a printed face value, and a step in the correct direction when it came to the poker currency. Chips across the board were different when it came to size and material from location to location, and in terms of size, bigger was always better. As time went on, the variety of tokens available as currency were still too easy for individuals to forge. With the 20th century came the opportunity to develop chips with the use of high pressure machinery and a standardized chip size was developed. This casino chip size, across the board today, is 39mm in diameter with a weight ranging from 8.5 grams to 20.5 grams. With the chip size set in stone, this only left branding as a factor to differentiate between the variety of casino chips from one casino floor to another.

The difference in branding throughout the Las Vegas Casinos depends on a variety of factors. The majority of Las Vegas Strip Hotels are ruled by two major players – MGM and Caesars. This develops a strong foundation to begin the branding process. The rest of the design is decided from an assortment of options, such as, color preference, logo, amount, and what is appealing to the players. As you make your way through the casinos on the Strip and in the downtown area, take a glance at the variety of chips being exchanged on the floor and see just how enticing these small tokens of currency can be.

How often do casinos switch out their chips?

With the high volume of visitors making their way to Las Vegas, it is difficult to frequently switch out the chips used at the casinos. When it comes to revamping the specific casino chips and refreshing their supply of currency, locations tend to only change out their chips every few years based on security reasons and to keep up with the world of gaming.

During the process of casinos switching out their old chips for new chips, a “grace period” is normally in place where casinos will honor the withdrawn chips before doing away with them all together. Before the updated chips can start being manufactured, and before they can make their way to the casino floor, they must be pre-approved by the Gaming Control Board after the design and security features are laid out for review.

Back in the day, when old casino chips were not being used anymore casino owners did not know what to do with the outdated tokens. Many were disposed of right into Lake Mead (some can still be found by divers today) and some were even mixed in with concreate to help develop the foundations of old establishments. Today, chips can only be destroyed by the Gaming Control Board-approved disposal companies. The old tokens due for destruction are then loaded into a security equipped truck and then crushed into dust, all witnessed by a gaming regulator.

What is the future for casino chips?

The future of casino chips is still up in the air and has a possibility of changing any day. Some people believe with the modern modifications of everyday life, casino tokens have the opportunity of taking a more digital form through the use of electronic devices. With that being said, for poker, blackjack, roulette, and other table games, gamblers enjoy the physical look and feel of the easily spotted casino chips. Simply put, players like to see how much money they have or don’t have physically in front of them. So, don’t worry, Las Vegas visitors can expect to see casino chips around for many days to come.

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the many Las Vegas Strip casinos, make your way to Tahiti Village for a more relaxed and comfortable vacation. Indulge in dining at 17° South Booze & Bites, lounge by the pool and lazy river, and simply enjoy your vacation in the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas.

Take Your Sweets Out for Sweets: Best Dessert Shops in the Desert

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Give your sweet tooth what it’s been looking for, and indulge in some of the tastiest locations for desserts in the desert. Enjoy this guide while you’re on the hunt to find the best dessert shops located in Las Vegas. Your summer trip to Sin City this year is going to be the sweetest one yet!

“Stressed is desserts spelled backwards.”

Holsteins

Our first location is Holsteins: Bam-Boozled Shakes & Desserts, found on Las Vegas Blvd. inside The Cosmopolitan. You know that saying “he’s acting like a kid in a candy store?” Holsteins makes it acceptable for a grown up to act like a kid when it comes to their dessert menu. This perfect dessert location in Sin City offers the ultimate dessert for adults, a “boozie” milkshake, which is perfect for your Las Vegas vacation! Holsteins is the perfect location for that happy hour dessert you’ve been looking for, and also offers lunch, dinner, and late-night menus. Get your dessert on the right way.

 “The best things in life are sweet.”

BabyStacks Cafe

Another must-eat location for dessert in the desert is more of a local hotspot called BabyStacks Cafe. If you are living in Vegas or only visiting for the weekend, we are positive that sooner or later you will be on the hunt for breakfast, and not just any breakfast but a breakfast that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. BabyStacks offers the perfect combination of breakfast and dessert with their classic pancake menu! If you think breakfast time is too early to be thinking about desert, then you are mistaken. BabyStacks offers a variety of hotcakes such as red velvet, banana cream pie, German chocolate, and many more to satisfy your sweet tooth. With four different locations available throughout the city, this local spot is a must for all!

“A party without a cake is just a meeting.”

The Strip House

Next up, The Strip House: an iconic New York steak restaurant, located inside Planet Hollywood on the famous Las Vegas Strip. Once entering the location, you will be greeted by an old-world style mixed with modern sophistication accompanied by a farm to fork style menu. On this locally sourced menu, you will find everything from a seafood bar to fresh salads and steaks to die for. With all this amazing food available on the menu, make sure you save room for the ultimate dish available, the Strip House signature 24-layer chocolate cake. If your mouth is watering now, just wait until you order a slice for yourself. When making this signature dish, 12 layers are dedicated to chocolate cake, 11 layers consist of chocolate filling, and the top layer is a special French semisweet chocolate ganache to add that final touch. The Strip House dessert menu is also filled with many other mouthwatering sweets, so when you’re out on Las Vegs Blvd., don’t forget to indulge in the chocolatey madness.

“Life is short, eat dessert first.”

Jean Philippe Patisserie

If you are obsessed with sweets in any form, then you must make your way to Jean Philippe Patisserie inside the Bellagio. This chocolate shop is a world class European-style candy store that will make you feel like you are in dessert heaven. When you enter this one of a kind sweet tooth wonderland, you will be greeted by a unique and amazing chocolate fountain from floor to ceiling, with different types of melted chocolate trickling down. When shopping through this dessert shop, you will be able to pick from cookies, cakes, and many other chocolatey dishes. When stopping by Jean Philippe’s, on your hunt for the best dessert in the desert, make sure you treat yourself to more than just one dessert. Remember, you’re in Vegas, and what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

“Cake is the answer. Who cares what the question is.”

Sprinkles

First making a name for themselves as the world’s first cupcake bakery in Beverly Hills, Sprinkles provides nothing but the freshest baked treats in well over 20 locations. All cupcakes produced at Sprinkles consist of fresh ingredients, their signature dot on top, and handcrafted sweetness for all to enjoy. Not only does Sprinkles offer bakery style cupcakes, but dessert lovers can also indulge in ice cream and cookies to hit the perfect dessert trifecta. The Las Vegas Sprinkles location can be found along The LINQ’s avenue, between the Strip and the High Roller. Something new that Sprinkles has brought to the dessert world is their unique Cupcake ATM. Here you can browse through the many different flavors to pick from, insert your method of payment, and out comes your sweet treat. Try out one of Sprinkle’s sinfully delicious desserts while enjoying your stay in the desert.

“Chocolate is nature’s way of making up for Mondays.”

Luv-it Frozen Custard

Another local sweet spot in Sin City is Luv-it Frozen Custard, selected as “The Best” in the State of Nevada. The Luv-it Custard stand has been serving the Vegas community since 1973 and has only gotten better throughout the years. This famous custard family is known for their amazing sundaes, but also provide shakes, cones, and malts for everyone to enjoy the custard in their favorite form. Locals of Las Vegas are well aware of this unique custard family tradition, but more and more tourists are making their way to experience Luv-it first hand, located within walking distance of the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel, & Tower. Luv-it also likes to keep things fresh, offering flavors of the month as well as flavors of the day. Get out and enjoy this sweet treat today to help cool off during some of the hottest months in Las Vegas history.

“Save room for dessert.”

Tommy Bahama

Last, but certainly not least, is the Tommy Bahama located inside Town Square. This location is unique because it is both a clothing store as well as a restaurant. We know what you’re thinking, how can they specialize in clothing and food? With 20 years of restaurant experience, Tommy Bahama has gone above and beyond when it comes to making a name for themselves in the restaurant scene, opening some of the best upscale-dining locations throughout the states. These restaurants are known for chef-inspired dishes, unique cocktails, and service that will encourage all guests to visit again. Indulge in some of their sweet treats such as their specialty martinis like the Pineapple Paradisio, that will make you feel like you are in your very own version of paradise. If you’re not looking for something to wet your whistle, we encourage you to save room for the desert at Tommy Bahama. Continuing with the paradise island theme, the restaurant offers a Pina Colada Cake that will have your taste buds screaming for more.

Now that you know where to go for the best sweets in Sin City, it’s time to get out there and start exploring! We encourage you to find some of the most unique locations, and let us know what you think. When looking for desert in Las Vegas, you will never be disappointed.

Navigate Through Las Vegas Based on Your Music Genre Style

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You never have to go far to find live music in Las Vegas. Sin City is known for many things and its stance as one of the premier music destinations in the world is just one of them. Legendary acts have graced Vegas stages setting up residencies that attract fans from across the globe here for a musical vacation.

Every genre of music is represented below the glittering lights, so if you think Vegas is only known for one DJ-driven or house beats type of style, you’re missing a huge part of this area’s music culture. Don’t get us wrong; the city knows how to party, but as you navigate through the Strip and beyond, you’ll soon find musical gems from all walks of life that make a visit to the desert well worth it. For every music genre, there is a place and vibe to welcome you.

Brooklyn Bowl, The LINQ Hotel & Casino

Sitting at an impressive 80,000 square feet, Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas is a multi-purpose space that still manages to maintain a laid-back atmosphere. As you can probably guess from the name, this isn’t your everyday music space; it’s a bowling alley (with 32 lanes), too. Come for the food, stay for a game or two, and then head to the stage for a concert. Guests will be entertained by a variety of sounds, which rotate on a nightly basis, including country, hip-hop, jazz, and reggae, to name a few. To call it eclectic would be an understatement. Rather than being limited to just one musical genre, Brooklyn Bowl has chosen to encapsulate it all.

Upcoming concerts: Erykah Badu (soul); Simple Plan (alternative pop); Viva Ras Vegas (reggae, ska)

Beauty Bar, Downtown Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a place where anything goes, so why wouldn’t there be a place for patrons to get their nails done…and then, head to a concert? This local favorite is co-owned by Pawn Star’s Corey Harrison and houses a nail salon, in addition to live music seven days a week. As one of the only outdoor concert venues in Las Vegas, it draws quite the crowd every night of the year. Get acquainted with musicians that live slightly under the radar. Listen to the sounds of garage rock, guitar-driven pop, and country rock all in the same week. Come for the pampering and stay for a performance.

Upcoming concerts: Emily Bell & The Talkbacks (singer/songwriter); JC Brooks (post-punk and soul); He Is Legend (hard rock)

The Dive Bar, Off the Strip

Want a place where you can unironically enjoy a PBR tallboy and listen to underground favorites and a few cult musical classics? The Dive Bar is just the place for you. Don’t expect many extras at this ‘what you see is what you get’ type of bar. The sound leans toward classic country, rockabilly, with a little bit of punk rock thrown in as well. If you’re looking for a more local experience that is on the other end of the bright lights spectrum from the Strip, pull up a barstool at The Dive Bar and try to blend in.

Upcoming concerts: David Allan Coe (country); Murphy’s Law (hardcore punk); Hemlock (heavy metal)

The Joint, Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas

Music is a way of life at Hard Rock Hotel Las Vegas and its music venue, The Joint, has seen more than its fair share of rock ‘n’ rollers. Vegas natives, The Killers, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan are but a few of the big-name acts that have graced the stage at this highly revered venue. With a 4,000-person capacity over three tiers of viewing, there’s not really a bad seat in the house. You’ll definitely feel the vibes of musical artists past and present via the hotel’s memorabilia and the lineup that continues to wow audiences of all music backgrounds.

Upcoming concerts: Third Eye Blind (90’s rock); Bryson Tiller (rap and R&B); YESTIVAL (progressive rock)

The Smith Center, Downtown Las Vegas

If musical theatre is more your speed, then you can’t miss a performance at The Smith Center, a world-class venue which draws in touring Broadway plays, in addition to a schedule of classical, contemporary, dance, and jazz musical artists. The sprawling campus embodies a historic feel with art deco inspiration and elegant touches throughout all music areas, although the center is one of the newest music venues in Las Vegas, opening in March 2012.

Upcoming concerts: The Ronnie Foster Trip (cabaret jazz); An Evening with Burt Bacharach (pianist/songwriter); The Beach Boys (American pop and rock ‘n’ roll)

There are no limits when it comes to Las Vegas entertainment and it’s the music that drives the pulse of it all. From big casino residencies to some laid-back local bars, create a musical journey throughout the city based on your favorite musical genres.