I’m not saying I’m a pro on Las Vegas, Nevada. But I’m kind of a pro. A quick getaway to Vegas is a typical weekend for us that live in California/the West Coast. I’ve been to Vegas a few times now (probably too many times) and wanted to put together this guide to a weekend in Las Vegas. Whether it’s for a girl’s weekend or bachelorette, if you’re going to do Vegas you need to do it right. I’m assuming if you’re reading this post, you’re either planning a trip to Vegas or have interest in this city of sin. You have questions, I have answers.
The Guide To A Weekend in Las Vegas
Where should I stay?
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I definitely recommend staying on “The Strip.” This is where all the magic happens. Unless you’re looking for a luxury suite, hotels in Vegas are actually pretty affordable. My personal favorites are:
- The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
- Aria Resort & Casino
- Mandarin Oriental
- Wynn Las Vegas
- Bellagio Las Vegas
- The Flamingo is pretty nice if you are on a tight budget, but make sure you ask to be put in the newer tower!
- MGM Grand is good for a budget as well!
How long should I stay?
I personally think 3 Days and 2 Nights (one weekend) is enough time in Vegas. I was skeptical when someone first told me this, but trust me this is LONG ENOUGH. I’ve never gone to Vegas and wanted to extend my stay. And anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE nightlife. By the end of day two I’m somewhere between why am I still here and will I make it out alive if I go out again tonight? There’s something in the air than physically and mentally drains you. It can’t be explained until you experience Vegas for yourself. It’s definitely part of the thrill. I recommend bringing water to keep in your room to stay HYDRATED, especially if you’re going to be walking outside a lot in the 100 degree weather. There is soo much to do (shows, gambling, food, shopping, clubs etc.) most people like to stay within their hotels and only leave at night to experience nightlife.
What is the weather like?
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Vegas is HOT and keeps getting hotter (I have no idea why though since apparently global warming isn’t a thing *sarcasm*). They don’t call it Sin City for nothing. You’re in the middle of the desert, so expect temperatures in the summer to rise above the 100’s. It’s even hot at night. The one plus is that it’s a dry heat with little to no humidity. God bless my hair. However, if you go in December temperatures dip lower into like the 50’s.
Transportation?
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Drive or fly? I prefer to fly and avoid the two-lane desert stretch from LA to Vegas. However, the drive isn’t too bad. The drive is about 5 hours, while the flight is about 45 minutes. You do the math. Flights are pretty cheap depending on where you fly from. McCarran International Airport (LAS) is the closest airport to the strip. It’s only about 15 minutes away. Once you’re in Vegas, there are plenty of Uber’s and Taxi’s. Believe it or not, Uber used to not be allowed in Vegas. It was a tragic time for me.
What should I do for FUN?!
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There’s so much to do in Las Vegas, even if you aren’t 21.
Nightclubs:
- Hakkasan at MGM Grand – Home to some of the world’s biggest Dj’s including, Calvin Harris (favorite DJ), Steve Aoki and Tiesto.
- Drai’s at The Cromwell – Hip Hop Vibes. I saw G-Eazy here once. Best night of my life.
- Omnia at Caesars Palace
- Hyde Bellagio at the Bellagio
- Marquee at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
- Jewel at Aria Resort & Casino
Day Parties / Pool Parties:
- Encore Beach Club at Wynn Encore – Performers like: Alesso, Marshmello, The Chainsmokers, David Guetta, Diplo, and Dj Snake
- Wet Republic at MGM Grand – Performers like: Steve Aoki, Martin Garrix and Tiesto
- Drai’s Beach Club at The Cromwell
- Marquee Day Club at The Cosmopolitan
Places to Visit & Other Activities:
- The High Roller Ferris Wheel at The LINQ
- Take a Gondola Ride at the Venetian
- Visit the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign
- Paris Las Vegas
- Walk the Strip
- Gamble at the Casinos
- Bellagio Fountains (You can control them for the night for about $300k)
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- See a show like Cirque du Soleil
- Take a Helicopter Tour of the Grand Canyon
- Madame Tussauds – Las Vegas
- Shopping!!
- “Seven Magic Mountain” Art Installation
Where should I eat?
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- Raku – Japanese $$
- Top of the World – American, with views of the city $$$
- Morton’s The Steakhouse $$$$
- Carson Kitchen – American $$
- Ricardo’s Mexican Restaurant – Open 24/7 $$
- RA Sushi Bar Restaurant – Japanese $$
- The Eiffel Tower Restaurant – French $$$$
- Chart House – Seafood $$$
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I hope you enjoyed this Guide To A Weekend in Las Vegas. My best advice is if you’re not looking to live fast and make the most out of your time in Vegas, you should probably stay home. No one likes a fun sucker. It’s only positive vibes in Vegas, because everyone’s just out for a good time, not a long time. (Thanks, Drake)
