6 Movies to Watch to Get You Excited For Vegas

If a visit to Las Vegas is in your future, you might be feeling a little restless and impatient to get the fun started. Kill some time before your trip and build up the Vegas excitement by revisiting a few of these classic films set in the entertainment capital of the world. We have put together a list of six of our favorite Las Vegas movies to rev up the excitement for your upcoming trip.

1. Vegas Vacation

In the fourth installment of the hilariously popular National Lampoon’s Vacation series, Clark Griswold and his family take a whirlwind vacation to Las Vegas. From mishaps at the Hoover Dam, to financial ups and downs at the casinos, Vegas Vacation puts a riotous twist on some classic Vegas activities.

2. 21

21 tells the story of math whiz Ben Campbell, who needs to find a way to pay for Harvard Medical School. To raise the needed tuition money, Ben joins a team of fellow MIT students as they spend their weekends counting cards at the blackjack tables in Vegas.

3. Miss Congeniality 2

When two friends from her pageant days are kidnapped in Las Vegas, Agent Gracie Hart risks losing her standing as the public “face” of the FBI in order to get them back. Along with a reluctant bodyguard named Sam, Gracie embarks on a wild goose chase through the city that concludes on the famous ship outside Treasure Island.

4. Last Vegas

Four childhood friends reconnect in Las Vegas to celebrate the upcoming marriage of Billy, played by Michael Douglas, to a much younger woman. From nightclubs to blackjack tables, the four men have a wild Vegas weekend while dealing with personal issues of friendship and romance.

5. Viva Las Vegas

This classic film stars Elvis Presley as a hopeful race car driver out to win the Las Vegas Grand Prix. First, he will need to replace his car’s engine, but the plot thickens when he is pushed into a pool by a beautiful hotel swimming instructor and loses his money.

6. Ocean’s Eleven

Danny Ocean recruits a band of criminal masterminds for a spectacular Las Vegas heist. The group acts out their elaborate plan to rob three Vegas casinos—the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the MGM Grand—simultaneously.

Take some time away from your packing to enjoy some of these classic films. They are sure to leave you more excited than ever for your own Las Vegas adventure.

5 Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Vegas

With summer almost over and cooler temperatures on the way, now is a great time to think about heading to Las Vegas to enjoy a few of the many outdoor activities available. Although the weather in Las Vegas stays relatively comfortable throughout the year, some activities are simply more enjoyable in the warmer weather. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy before the cooler weather rolls in.

1.  Hike through the Valley of Fire

 

Stretch your legs on one of the hiking trails through the gorgeous red sandstone formations found in the Valley of Fire, about an hour’s drive from the Strip. Or, if you want to enjoy the great outdoors overnight, bring your tent and stay in one of the designated campgrounds for an adventure you will not soon forget.

2. Take a Drive Through Red Rock Canyon

 

If you are looking to enjoy nature from the comfort of your car, Red Rock Canyon offers a 13-mile scenic drive through the stunning landscape of the Mojave Desert. When you are ready to leave the car behind, you can pull over and try hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, or biking.

3. Enjoy the Outdoor Shopping and Fun at Town Square

Source: lasvegas.com 

This 1.5 million square foot shopping paradise offers a blend of popular name brand stores and chic boutiques, as well as plenty of dining and entertainment opportunities for the whole family. When you are all shopped out, head over to the Children’s Park and let the little ones loose to play in the tree house, princess tower, and many other fun features.

4. Stroll through Ethel M Chocolate’s Botanical Cactus Garden

Chocolate and cacti make the perfect summer combination when you visit the Ethel M chocolate factory in Henderson. After you have wandered through the luscious four-acre garden, featuring a variety of exquisite desert flora, head inside to check out the self-guided viewing aisle and watch as the chocolatiers create their decedent masterpieces.

5. Take a Dinner Cruise on Lake Mead

Source: lasvegas.com 

After a full day of Vegas fun, climb aboard the Desert Princess, a three-level paddle-wheeler, and dine in style as you enjoy the scenery around Lake Mead. Landmarks to watch out for include the Arizona Paint Pots and the Hoover Dam.

Thanks to the warm desert climate, you can continue to enjoy most of these outdoor activities year round. However, if you are looking for a little more outdoors fun before summer comes to an official end, be sure to check out some of these great activities in and around Las Vegas.

Shows to Take Your Grandkids to on Grandparents Day

Grandparents’ Day is September 13th and is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your grandchildren, or other close family members. If you are able to spend the day with your own grandchildren, you might be on the lookout for a special activity to share with them. Las Vegas is known for its amazing shows and, fortunately, many of them are appropriate for all ages. Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly options.

Gregory Popovich’s Comedy Pet Theater

Even your youngest grandchildren will love watching the trained animals perform skits and stunts at Gregory Popovich’s Comedy Pet Theater. Popovich also adds his own comedy and juggling skills to the mix for a show that will entertain everyone.

Tournament of Kings Dinner Show

Treat your grandchildren to a dinner and show with the Tournament of Kings at the Excalibur. They will love watching the Knights joust and battle as a story of honor and intrigue unfolds, all while enjoying a deliciously medieval meal.

Recycled Percussion

Get energized with Recycled Percussion, a junk rock band who make music with buckets, ladders, and practically anything else. The best part is that your grandkids can join in the fun with a pan and a drumstick of their own.

Mac King Comedy Magic Show

If you want to hear your grandchildren giggle, take them over to Harrah’s for the Mac King Comedy Magic Show. He will amaze and delight them as he catches goldfish out of thin air along with many other astonishing feats.

Mystère

If you are looking for a show that will impress you every bit as much as your grandchildren, Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère offers a stunning display of acrobatics. With whimsical characters, beautiful costumes and  impressive sets, Mystère offers the excitement and wonder of a circus blended with the glamor and elegance of a major Vegas production.

Blue Man Group

A long-standing favorite among Las Vegas shows, the Blue Man Group is sure to be a big hit with your grandkids. The childlike curiosity and humor of the blue skinned, bald-headed stars will amuse one and all as they experiment with vivid sound and visual displays.

Catching a show is a popular Vegas activity and with so many family friendly options, it is easy to find one you and your grandchildren can enjoy together. This Grandparents’ Day, create a special memory by taking your grandkids to a show in Las Vegas.

Family Playing Golf

Labor Day Activities in Las Vegas

As summer is now starting to wind down, you might be considering one last family trip to Las Vegas to celebrate Labor Day. While the Vegas calendar is full of Labor Day events for the grownups, there is plenty going on to enjoy with the whole family as well. Here are some kid-friendly activities happening in and around Las Vegas this Labor Day weekend.

Aliante Golf Club

Share your love of golf with your family this Labor Day at Aliante Golf Club, where kids play free every day after 1 pm. This 18 hole course has specially designed “Family Tees” that provide a shorter layout for beginning golfers.

Divine Cafe Labor Day BBQ and Concert

The Divine Cafe at Springs Preserve will be holding their first annual Labor Day BBQ and Concert on Monday, September 7th. Head over to the Springs Amphitheater and enjoy some delicious food and great music, provided by Siana King.

Make your own Magnets at the Springs Preserve

The Springs Preserve has plenty of family fun to offer all weekend long, including a special event where your kids can make their own tie-dyed butterfly magnets. This event takes place in the Origen Museum on Saturday and Sunday. When they are done, check out the prehistoric Dino Summer exhibit or take a walk through the 110-acre botanical garden.

Activities at Bonnie Springs Ranch

For a taste of the old west, take a drive out to Red Rock Canyon, less than an hour’s drive from the Strip, and visit Bonnie Springs Ranch. Explore Old Nevada Town, a replica of an authentic 1880’s mining town, visit the animals in the petting zoo, and take a ride on the ranch train. Stick around on Saturday evening for some live music as well.

Free Admission to the Discovery Children’s Museum

From the desert-themed Toddler Town, to the interactive experiments in the Patents Pending room, the Discovery Children’s Museum offers a variety of fun and engaging exhibits that the whole family will love. If you have a Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card, you can receive one free admission to the museum on the first full weekend of the month, including Labor Day weekend.

Enjoy your last taste of Las Vegas before the school year begins and fall encroaches by heading out to the desert and participating in a few of these great family activities this Labor Day weekend.

Las Vegas Strip

Benefits of Living in Las Vegas

As your vacation draws to a close, you pack your suitcase, say farewell to the glittering lights of the Strip and head back home. Along with your luggage, you are likely also carrying back with you some fond memories of the desert city. After an unforgettable vacation it’s only natural you may be thinking about making your next stay in Vegas a more permanent one. Here are just a few of the benefits you may enjoy by living in Las Vegas.

Entertainment

As an occasional visitor you are likely already familiar with one of the best features of living in Las Vegas—the entertainment. As a resident you could be reveling in your favorite Vegas activities anytime you want, whether that means playing the odds at the casinos, partying the night away at the clubs or enjoying one of the many unparalleled shows offered year round.

Food

If you are a foodie at heart, you will love having access to some of the finest and most diverse restaurant choices in the world. From the whimsical Le Cirque, a French restaurant housed in the Bellagio, to the elegant and fashionable Sage, where Chef Shawn McClain serves up a seasonal menu of creative American fare, there is no end to the delicious experiences waiting for you.

The Weather

Vegas enjoys an abundance of sunny days, averaging about 292 a year. Even during the winter, the temperature generally reaches close to 60 degrees, allowing you to easily continue your favorite outdoor activity in any season. Since there are some great national parks nearby, you can use some of those sunny days to go boating on Lake Mead, rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon or hiking in Zion National Park.

No State Income Tax

What more can be said? Since the state’s treasury is in large part funded by taxes and fees garnered from the gaming industry, Nevada residents get to pass on paying state income tax. Add in a cost of living that is quite reasonable, especially when compared to other major cities across the country, and Las Vegas starts to look not only exciting, but also affordable!

If all the fun memories you have enjoyed in Las Vegas have you thinking about packing up and making a permanent move, these are just a few of the reasons why the Entertainment Capital of the World is also a great place to make your home.

friend sat the tables in Vegas

Tips to help you have an unforgettable Birthday in Las Vegas

 

It’s a well-known fact that no other city in the world parties like Las Vegas. This is what makes the city a perfect location to celebrate your birthday, and pretty much anything else for that matter. If you are planning on making the Entertainment Capital of the World the location of your next birthday—or any other celebration—here are a few things to consider.

Hosting Tips

As the brains behind the shindig of the year, you will have a lot on your plate. Many Vegas resorts, such as Tahiti Village, have excellent event planners and concierge professionals on staff who can help you design the perfect Las Vegas stay and party. If you plan on holding your event at a venue outside of your hotel or resort, you may find they can provide many services, such as catering or photography to make your party planning easier.

When it comes time to making travel and accommodation plans, give your group the necessary information and allow them book their own reservations rather than footing the bill yourself, which can get expensive and frustrating. Also, be sure to avoid trying to plan every minute of your guests’ stay in Las Vegas. Schedule a few group activities, including the main event, but also give them free time to explore the city. This makes everything easier for you, and more fun for everyone else.

Where to hold an Adult’s Party

From casinos to restaurants to nightclubs, you can easily plan an adult party that will last all day and well into the night. For a daytime celebration, consider the Encore or Daylight beach clubs. For an after dark party, XS Nightclub and Hakkasan Nightclub are two of the most popular spots in town. Of course, there are plenty of non-club venues as well. CelebrityCars, for example, offers 20,000 square feet of event space filled with exotic and classic cars.

Where to hold a Child’s Party

While you might not think of Las Vegas as a kid-friendly city, there are many venues where your child can celebrate their special day. For the miniature thrill seeker in your life, consider holding their special day at the Adventuredome, America’s largest indoor theme park. Great for younger children, Childs’ Play offers an amazing indoor playground. A party at King Putt includes 18 holes of indoor mini golf and the option to include a magic show.

For your next Las Vegas party, keep these tips and suggestions in mind for a celebration everyone is sure to remember.

tahiti village resort

Benefits of Staying in a Gaming-Free Hotel or Resort in Las Vegas

While the thought of Las Vegas tends to conjure the clamor of slot machines and the click of poker chips, not everything in Vegas is centered on the gaming industry. In fact, even if you love spending time at the casinos, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to consider staying at a gaming-free hotel or resort for your next Vegas vacation. Here are a few benefits to consider for your next trip to Vegas.

Take a break from the excitement

Vegas is all about sensational fun, but if you plan on relaxing during your vacation, the casinos might not offer the most favorable atmosphere. A gaming-free hotel or resort can offer you the chance to unwind and slow down for a while. Since there are plenty of non-gaming options on or near the Strip, you do not have to worry about being too far from the excitement. When you are ready to jump back into the thick of things, a short walk or car ride will have you right back in the center of the fun.

Something for the whole family

It is important to remember the gaming industry tends to cater to adults almost exclusively. While some casinos might have a few kid-friendly options, the whole family might feel more comfortable staying in a gaming-free environment. These facilities also generally offer more family-friendly activities, such as Tahiti Village’s Summer Sunday Luaus or movie nights.

Perfect for a couple’s getaway

If you plan on visiting Las Vegas with your special someone, you might be interested in some quiet, alone time. While the fun and glamour of the strip can be a great way to play together, you may prefer the peaceful and luxurious ambiance of a non-gaming resort when it’s time to wind down and relax with your loved one.

Hang out with your friends

If you are heading to Vegas with friends, you will likely want to party on the Strip for the first couple of nights, but you may also want a more peaceful environment to relax during the downtime. Getting away from the casinos for a portion of each day can mean more time to talk, relax and enjoy the company of great friends.

Whoever you travel with on your next Las Vegas vacation, choosing gaming-free accommodations can ensure a more refreshing, enjoyable time will be had by all.

watching a movie in las vegas

Where to Take in a Movie in Vegas

While planning your next Las Vegas vacation, catching a movie might not be the first activity on your list. However, the scorching desert sun or the thrilling, but exhausting fun may have you longing for a more relaxed evening activity or a few hours in the dark. A movie might be just the thing you are looking for. Here are some of the best places to take in a movie while in Las Vegas.

Galaxy Luxury Theatres Green Valley

Whether you are looking for the highest quality picture and sound available, or just a comfortable reclining seat to relax in, the Galaxy Luxury Theatres in Green Valley has it all. They even offer a gourmet sausage bar, and a selection of beers and wines, for those looking for something a little different than traditional movie snacks. Galaxy Luxury also has theatres in the Cannery Casino in North Las Vegas.

Regal Red Rock Stadium 16 & IMAX

For a truly stunning cinematic experience the whole family can enjoy, head over to Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa and check out one of their IMAX offerings. There is also a bowling alley on the property if you want to continue the fun after your movie ends. Of course, if you would rather skip out on the casino atmosphere entirely during your family evening, you can always head over to the Regal Village Square Stadium 18 theatres on Sahara Avenue.

Century 16 South Point

In addition to viewing the latest blockbusters in luxury seating, and XD Extreme Digital Cinema, you can check out the Classic Series at Century 16 in the South Point Hotel Casino & Spa. This unique theatre gives you the chance to watch all of you old favorites, digitally restored. They also offer $5 tickets all day on Tuesdays, so your entire group can enjoy the show without leaving a big hole in your vacation budget.

Tahiti Village Movie Night

Of course, if you are looking for a truly relaxing and family-friendly evening, there is no need to even leave the resort. Simply head over to Tahiti Village’s main pool at 7 p.m. on any Wednesday night and enjoy an outdoor movie in the middle of our very own tropical paradise.

If your stay in Las Vegas has you feeling a little overheated, worn out, or ready for some family-friendly entertainment, cool down and relax while enjoying a movie at one of these great location.

las vegas strip fireworks

The 4th of July in Las Vegas!

In Las Vegas, where spectacular neon is the official indigenous light source, fireworks displays in the service of holiday celebrations are forced to work that much harder. Nowhere is the competition for people’s attention greater, and if the fireworks are not at least the equal of the surrounding stimuli, they can be rendered redundant.

This has not been lost on Las Vegas fireworks providers. Over the years the nocturnal explosions heralding another year or Independence Day have been consistently inspiring. You should expect no less than another spectacle worthy of Las Vegas itself this July 4th, which (in case you’ve lost track or stopped counting) is the 239th since we informed the British their services would no longer be required.

If you’re staying with us at Tahiti Village over the holiday and want to know where to watch the fireworks – we recommend the Skyview Lounge on the 10th floor of Tower 5 for the best view in Las Vegas – click here for a list of July 4th fireworks locations, viewing tips, parties, nightclub events and food and drink specials.

We wish you a happy and safe Independence Day!

The Convention Goers Guide to Las Vegas

Get the most out of your next meeting or convention in Las Vegas and still have some time and energy to party the night away by following these simple tips and suggestions.

Dress Comfortably

Depending on the convention you may have to stick to a certain code, but you’ll still want to dress comfortably.  When packing for your trip, you should be extra considerate of your feet as you will likely be doing a lot of walking. Also be sure to pace yourself rather than trying to get everything in on the first day. That way you will have more energy to play later on. Keep your energy up by staying hydrated and getting plenty to eat. The famous Vegas buffets offer a great meal option if you are looking for a quick decision and plenty of food. The buffets at the Bellagio and the Wynn are two of the best.

Shows

Be sure to check your schedule and purchase tickets in advance if you would like to see one of the famous Vegas shows. Any one of the eight available Cirque du Soleil productions, such as Zarkana or The Beatles LOVE, offer you a unique evening of fascination and astounding acrobatics. If you are ready to laugh after your long work day, check out Carrot Top at the Luxor or ventriloquist Terry Fator at the Mirage.

Early Morning

If your convention starts a little later, you might find yourself with some time to fill in the early morning. Take a leisurely stroll down the Strip and head inside the Bellagio to check out the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. For something a little more active, try the TaylorMade Golf Experience, a nine-hole golf course and driving range. Don’t forget to check out the options available at your resort as well. Tahiti Village offers a fitness center, a tropical pool area and a spa that can all be used during the morning.

Late Nights

When your free time is more likely to fall later in the evening, exchange your work clothes for something a little more fashionable and stop by a bar or nightclub. The Chandelier at the Cosmopolitan offers three different bars, so you are sure to find the perfect atmosphere for your tastes.  TAO Las Vegas at the Venetian is one of the hottest clubs in town. This multi-story “Asian City” includes a restaurant, lounge and beach, in addition to the nightclub.

A little planning will ensure that you can make it to all your convention commitments and still find time to squeeze in some fun during your stay in Las Vegas.