Exploring the Strip from North to South
Stratosphere Las Vegas
Unfortunately while M and I were visiting the top of the Stratosphere, it was too windy to run any of the rides. But I did have the opportunity to ride ‘Insanity’ years prior, and I hope to ride it again one day! A giant mechanical arm dangles you over the end of the Stratosphere, 900 feet in the air. The ride begins to spin and the claw opens, leaving riders staring straight down at the Strip. Definitely for thrill seekers only!
The Venetian
Whether you are inside or outside the Venetian you will feel you are outside in Venice! M and I didn’t do a gondola ride while we were there, but it is definitely on my to-do list next time. We watched as patrons glided down the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola, floating beneath bridges, beside cafes, under balconies and through the vibrant streetscape as their gondolier sang.
The Mirage
Firing off nightly is the volcano outside The Mirage. The spectacular volcano includes two volcano systems, a lagoon and fire shooters that shoot flames more than 12 feet into the air, and it is sure to leave you wide-eyed while passing by.
Caesars Palace
Known as “The Shopping Wonder of the World,” the Forum Shops are a must-visit stop along the strip. This luxury shopping destination houses over 150 stores, such a Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton and Gucci, along with fine restaurants and attractions. The fountains throughout the forums are unbelievable, and the indoor, illuminated sky painted above the stone covered street instantly made us feel like we were transported to a small town in Italy. Even the storefronts were decorated like little boutiques you would find on Main Street in Italy.
If you’ve never been to Rome before don’t worry, neither have I, but outside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, you can get a small taste of Rome. The replica Trevi Fountain is much smaller than the actual fountain, but the details are practically identical. It’s a great place to take a picture, take a break and pretend for a moment like you’re in Italy.
Flamingo Las Vegas
The Flamingo Las Vegas Wildlife Habitat is stocked with exotic birds, fish and turtles, highlighted by Flamingo Island, which is home to a flock of Chilean flamingos. There are parrots who were dancing like M and I at the club the night before, along with sparkling waterfalls and foliage. It’s a perfect stop for an afternoon stroll.
The Bellagio Hotel & Casino
Skip to the end of the Ocean’s Eleven movie and visit the Bellagio Fountains. The interwoven water, music and light spectacle mesmerizes its admirers. There are shows throughout the afternoon and night, so make sure to stop and kiss your loved one at this utterly romantic stop.
Enter the hotel and cross the lobby adorn with colorful, glass flowers hung from the ceiling. When you look down from the stunning ceiling you will find yourself in the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Each season the 14,000 square foot floral playground is transformed into a showcase of sights and colors. The arrangements vary from Chinese New Year to Tour of Italy, but I can guarantee the conservatory will be covered with thousands of colorful flowers. This is great spot to visit each time you’re in Las Vegas since it is always changing and is always uniquely designed.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
The Chandelier Lounge is a sight to see. The multi-story visual wonder houses three unique bar experiences, one of which being inside the chandelier. The sparkling, beaded curtains are illuminated by pink light, enhancing the luxury and beauty of Cosmopolitan.
New York-New York Hotel & Casino
Enjoy the world’s first 180 degree “heartline” twist and dive maneuver aboard the Big Apple Coaster. It was the first roller coaster M and I had been on together and it’s always a blast. Check out the “city skyline” view from outside the hotel and watch as the coaster twists and turns around the miniature skyscrapers of New York.
Luxor Hotel & Casino
Visit the black pyramid shaped, Egyptian themed hotel at night to get an up close view of the Sky Beam. It is the strongest beam of light in the world, and on a clear night can be visible up to 275 miles away by aircraft at cruising altitude.
