RV Road Trip: Las Vegas, Nevada
In the Desert City of Neon, Bet it All on Fun
Image Caption: Photo Credit: Getty Images
Las Vegas’ lights, sounds, and excitement are legendary. The city was built around casinos and gambling but has re-invented itself as a mecca for shows, concerts, and sporting events. The list of kid-friendly attractions has grown as well, making Vegas a fun destination for all ages. In recent years, the local arts and culture scene has burgeoned, giving Vegas a homegrown texture many visitors might miss.
The city is ever-changing as older casinos get torn down and replaced with something bigger, better, and brighter. Gone are the iconic white tigers of yore, replaced with tech-heavy attractions and big-name stars. Cheap buffets have been replaced by high-end dining with a bold international flavor. Las Vegas Boulevard, world-renowned as “The Strip,” is the heart of the action and dazzles at night with a sensory overload of eye candy. Giant signs entice with the latest shows. Fountains erupt. But there is more to Vegas than The Strip, with recreational opportunities surrounding the town as well as a wide array of fascinating museums.
The result is a metropolis with a glittering surface like none other, but also deep layers of nature and culture. Viva Las Vegas!
Weekend Warriors
Must-Do
The Bellagio is my favorite place to visit in Las Vegas. The epic displays of flowers in the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens change seasonally and are especially wonderful during the holidays, with playful polar bears and winter scenes. And, of course, step outside to experience the 1,000 fountains that dance to a variety of music. The on-site Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art provides an unexpected dose of creative inspiration.
Photo Credit: The Neon Museum
Off the Beaten Path
The Neon Museum has over 250 classic Vegas signs and displays them outdoors in the Neon Boneyard. Stay after dark and experience Brilliant Jackpot!, a light and sound show that magically brings the signs to life.
On the Menu
Chef Gordon Ramsay’s first Hell’s Kitchen is a five-star restaurant from the bombastic Scottish reality TV chef. Fans will feel like they are on set when dining on the signature Beef Wellington, sticky toffee pudding, and wonderful cocktails.
Stay Here
Good Sam-approved Arizona Charlie’s Boulder RV Park’s clubhouse includes fitness equipment and a pool table. The park is gated and has a heated pool and hot tub to relax in after a day at the slots.
Family RVers
Must-Do
Let the kids get some playtime at Circus Circus. Carnival games encircle a stage for trapeze and other acts (free shows Thursday-Monday). Or try the Adventure Dome, an indoor amusement park jam-packed with rides and games.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
Off the Beaten Path
Explore nature at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area just outside of town. Drive or bike the beautiful 13-mile scenic drive and admire canyons, peaks, chimneys, and chutes. Hike one of the 26 trails, or chalk up your hands and boulder or rock climb on the sandstone walls.
On the Menu
Where can you eat with your hands and scream at the top of your lungs? At the Tournament of Kings at Excalibur, watch jousting, sword fighting, explosions, and fire and enjoy tons of food. In December, the restaurant stages a Christmas-themed show called ’Twas the Knight.
Stay Here
Las Vegas KOA Journey at Sam’s Town has been our family’s go-to campground for years. Clean sites, a nice pool, and a hot tub are always welcome. We also like the campground’s proximity to Sam’s Town, so the kids can check out the movie theatre and bowling area.
Full-Time RVers
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
Must-Do
Taking in a high-glitz, big-name show has become a Vegas rite of passage. If the budget allows, catch an upcoming show by U2, Garth Brooks, or Carrie Underwood. Cirque Du Soleil’s fleet of performances are firmly established as Vegas icons. Or catch one of the many comedy and magic shows. Several businesses, such as Vegas.com, offer last-minute, budget-friendly ticket options.
Off the Beaten Path
The Fremont Street Experience has newly updated its Viva Vision, the largest LED Canopy screen in the world. Gaze up at a concert while walking the pedestrian mall, or get your heart rate up on the SlotZilla Zipline,100 feet above the ground.
Photo Credit: Mizumi
On the Menu
Try authentic Japanese specialties at four-star Mizumi. Dine at communal tables near a 90-foot waterfall in the teppanyaki room and watch as chefs bring excitement to their table-side cooking. Or try the robatayaki counter for savory dishes fired over a Binchotan charcoal grill.
Stay Here
The Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort has one of the coolest clubhouses and pools I have seen. Their pool area is a true oasis with a large kid’s pool surrounded by sandy beaches and a secluded adults-only pool. The clubhouse is spacious with a café/bar, movie room and more.
Retired RVers
Must-Do
A half-scale replica of Paris’ Eiffel Tower is hard to miss when on The Strip. Ride the elevator to the top and enjoy the best view in town. Or stay for dinner on the 11th floor and enjoy French cuisine while watching the Bellagio fountains from your table.
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos
Off the Beaten Path
One of the most impressive engineering projects in the US, the Hoover Dam, was constructed during the Great Depression. On the guided tours, walk through tunnels inside the dam and feel the water’s vibration as Colorado River water rushes through the pipes.
Photo Credit: The Peppermill
On the Menu
The only remaining standalone restaurant on the strip is The Peppermill Restaurant & Fireside Lounge. Experience the unique vibe of old-time Vegas and enjoy oversized portions, including their Peppermill Burger. Or relax in the lounge with a 64-ounce Scorpion filled with rum, vodka, and cherry brandy.
Photo Credit: Las Vegas RV Resort
Stay Here
There are over 350 sites at Las Vegas RV Resort, some of which can accommodate rigs up to 100 feet. The Good Sam Park has a fitness center and pet area and is adult-only.
