If you think Las Vegas, Nevada, is just a hot spot for gamblers and buffet lovers, think again. Beyond its most recognized attraction, Vegas is home to a bevy of activities for families looking for entertainment, couples looking for romance, and singles on the hunt for fun including spa experiences and shopping options from around the world.
And if you’ve walked the strip one too many times, say no more, Vegas is also known to reinvent itself every two years, so every now and then a return trip is necessary. Check out a few of the top activities to do in Vegas for non-gamblers:
[RELATED: How to Combine Business and Personal Travel — and Save]
Family fun
Yoga Among Dolphins at the Mirage Hotel — For a not so typical Las Vegas activity, the 60-minute yoga among dolphins class is worth every penny. The cost includes access to a full-day at the Mirage spa facilities, which features a sauna, hot and cold soaking tubs, and a steam room. You’ll also have access to lockers, fruit, coffee, water, and a smoothie afterward. When you sign in for class, you’ll walk from the hotel to the dolphin sanctuary, where you’ll gather in a small room at the bottom of the dolphin tank. The classroom is surrounded by three large windows perfectly situated for spectacular views of these amazing creatures swimming around the tank. And, if you take a moment to interact with them through the window, there’s a big chance they’ll say ‘hi!’
Michael Jackson ONE Show by Cirque du Soleil
From a musical trip down memory lane featuring the best hits from Michael Jackson to the incredible dance moves and acrobatics flying in the air, MJ One is a must-see show. Check out our detailed review of the show here.
Slotzilla Zip Line
Whether you crave heart-stopping thrill rides or you’ve been thinking about zip-lining but you’re not quite sure if you’re ready for the big leagues–Slotzilla is an amazing experience. Located in downtown Las Vegas, Slotzilla is a 12-story slot machine (literally in the middle of the street) featuring a thrilling 20-minute experience. The ride offers two options: the high line and low line. During the low line ride, you sit in a chair which takes you over half of Freemont Street. With the high line, you’re strapped into a harness in a superman-like horizontal position, then you’ll take off, flying over the old Las Vegas strip featuring classic neon signs and hotels.
The Neon Museum
If you’re looking for a quick get away from the craziness of the strip, a visit to the Neon Museum’s outdoor exhibit, also known as the Boneyard, is a great way to take a much-needed break. The Neon Museum is a nonprofit organization which takes you back in time with an incredible display of old rescued hotel and restaurant signs. And it offers some incredible insight into African American contributions to Las Vegas. For instance, according to the Neon Museum:
- Paul Revere Williams is the African American architect of the iconic La Concha Motel lobby which today serves as the museum’s visitor’s center.
- Sarann Knight-Preddy owned the Moulin Rouge casino for many years and was the first African American to receive a Nevada gaming license.
- In the days of discrimination, Foxy’s Casino at Sahara Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard was one of the few places to serve black patrons.
In February, the Neon Museum will spotlight African American History on Boneyard Tours.
(Continued on next page)