The Las Vegas strip generated $6.2 billion in gaming revenue in 2012, and the county overall generated $9.4 billion, notes the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. More than 39 million visitors took their hard-earned vacation time and hit Vegas for the time of their life last year. While many like to gamble, the city’s food scene is respected around the world, and its night life brings you up close and personal with celebrities and fellow Vegas visitors.
With hundreds of restaurants, clubs, and casinos to choose from, it’s a good idea to get some guidance when looking for the best places to eat, gamble, and party in Las Vegas:
Where to Eat
Once you realize how many great restaurants are in town, you may want to take that wad of cash meant for the craps table and double down on some exquisite cuisine.
Sen of Japan: There’s plenty of sushi in Vegas, but Sen is the Holy Grail of sushi. The prices are great, the selection is outstanding, and the service is world renowned. There is a traditional spread of sushi selections, but Sen also provides more unorthodox options on the menu.
Picasso: Picasso isn’t just a random name for this French restaurant. The entire restaurant is decorated with original Picasso paintings, making this a perfect destination for art lovers. Julian Serrano does a great job bringing new French cuisine to Vegas. The prix fixe dinners are pricey, but well worth it.
Michael’s: Michael’s prides itself on old school service, elegance, and up-scale Victorian decor. The menu satisfies on a number of levels, especially if you like seafood. It’s set apart from other restaurants with a variety of divine dishes that are prepared table side.
Where to Gamble
Even with the myriad restaurants and shows, gambling is the big draw in Vegas. After you wear yourself out shopping and lounging by the pool, head to a slot machine. Don’t know how to gamble? Ask your hotel concierge if the property offers free lessons. Or go online for additional resources.
The Bellagio: It’s famous for a reason. The hotel and casino goes over the top and is one of the most luxurious casinos available. The hotel is amazing, with every amenity you could want, and the stellar casino has every game imaginable.
The MGM Grand: Another iconic Las Vegas casino, the MGM Grand is the largest of them all. You’ll recognize it from afar by the lions at the entrance. You won’t want to leave once you see the 3,500 slot machines and 165 game tables. It also has plenty of on-site entertainment if you need a break from gambling.
Caesars Palace: You’ll feel like you stepped into ancient Rome with this casino. This low-key casino caters to every experience level, and it’s not nearly as intimidating as some of the other places in town.
Where to Party
There is no shortage of places to party in this town. The best night clubs are found in the larger hotels.
The 10AK at The Mirage Resort: This is the first stop for star-struck club goers, who have caught glimpses of celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Paris Hilton. This high class club is part club and part art form, with two separate spaces and enough room for 1,500 people.
Andrea’s at Encore Las Vegas: Want Asian fusion food and a great lounge to keep you entertained all night? Head to this club, and you might just see George Clooney and Lady Gaga.
LAVO at The Palazzo Resort: The LAVO nightclub is part awesome Italian restaurant, and part club. You’ll see A-list celebrities like Rihanna and Jay-Z. The restaurant and lounge areas of LAVO are open 7 days a week. The club is open 5 days, but has some of the latest club hours in Vegas.