Hey everyone, Angie from Trips with Angie here! If you're wondering why a cruise and all-inclusive travel agent is talking about Las Vegas, you're not alone. My friends and family had the same question when we announced our six-night Vegas trip! Most people think of Vegas as a quick getaway, but we decided to dive deeper and explore everything this vibrant city and its surroundings have to offer.



From Indianapolis to Vegas: A Southwest Adventure

Our journey began with a Southwest flight from Indianapolis. Upgrading to an A1-A15 boarding pass was a game-changer, securing us exit row seats and an empty middle seat. However, I made a rookie mistake – forgetting that Southwest doesn't have seat plugs! Pro tip: always bring a battery pack for your devices.

We rented a car from Budget, and thanks to our membership, we bypassed the long lines and were on our way in no time. Our first stop was Lotus of Siam, a Thai restaurant made famous by Anthony Bourdain. The food was authentic and flavorful, though a bit pricier than your average Thai spot.

Park MGM: A Breath of Fresh Air

We checked into the Park MGM, a completely non-smoking property, which was a major draw for me. We booked the Nighthawk Suite, a spacious and comfortable room that became our home for the week. At around $200 a night (including resort fees and parking), it was a fantastic deal. The Park MGM's compact size and convenient tram access to other resorts made it a winner in our book.

Exploring Natural Wonders: Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire

One of the highlights of our trip was exploring the natural beauty surrounding Las Vegas. We started with Red Rock Canyon, driving through the scenic loop and attending a ranger talk at the Visitor Center. The landscape was breathtaking, and we vowed to return with proper hiking gear.

The next day, we ventured to Valley of Fire State Park, a truly awe-inspiring destination. The vibrant red rock formations were incredible, and we even spotted a film crew shooting a motorcycle scene. We hiked the Fire Wave Trail and the White Domes Loop, though be warned – these trails are strenuous, especially in the sand and loose gravel.

Culinary Delights and Unique Experiences

Our culinary adventures were just as exciting as our outdoor explorations. We dined at é by José Andrés, a multi-course tasting menu experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. The food was inventive and delicious, and the presentation was theatrical. We also checked out Ghost Donkey, a hidden tequila and mezcal bar at the Cosmopolitan.

Another memorable evening was spent at the Vanderpump Cocktail Garden and Hell's Kitchen. The Vanderpump Garden was beautifully decorated, and the drinks were top-notch. Hell's Kitchen lived up to the hype, with delicious dishes like scallops and lobster risotto.

We also explored the local food scene in Chinatown, discovering hidden gems like a dumpling restaurant with an adorable mascot. Double Zero Pizza Pub, a James Beard Award nominee, served up some incredible pizza.

Beyond the Strip: Art, History, and Entertainment

Our itinerary wasn't just about food and nature. We visited the Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings, a historic saloon featured in films like Miss Congeniality 2. The Seven Magic Mountains art installation was a surreal and colorful experience, and the Pinball Hall of Fame was a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

We also delved into the arts and culture of Vegas. The Neon Museum at sunset was magical, and Meow Wolf's Omega Mart was a mind-bending immersive experience.

Our final night was a grand finale, starting with an Amasaki tasting menu at Momofuku, followed by a Garth Brooks concert at the Sphere. The Sphere's immersive technology was impressive, though the concert itself felt a bit stilted.

Why Six Nights in Vegas?

Our extended stay allowed us to experience a different side of Las Vegas, beyond the typical tourist traps. We discovered hidden gems, explored stunning natural landscapes, and indulged in incredible culinary experiences. There's still so much more to see and do, and we can't wait to return.

FAQs

  1. Why did you choose to stay at Park MGM?
    • It's a completely non-smoking property, which was a major draw for us.
  2. What were the highlights of your trip?
    • Exploring Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire, dining at é by José Andrés, and visiting Meow Wolf's Omega Mart.
  3. Any tips for first-time visitors to Las Vegas?
    • Rent a car to explore beyond the Strip, bring a battery pack for Southwest flights, and make dining reservations in advance.
  4. What was your favorite dining experience?
    • The Amasaki tasting menu at Momofuku was unforgettable.
  5. Would you recommend seeing a show at the Sphere?
    • The venue is incredible, but consider seeing an artist who is more experienced with immersive productions.