Monday, October 27, 2008

More Fantastic Vegas Freebies

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If you're looking for some great free things to do in Vegas, there are some amazing treats for you and the family awaiting. Many casinos in an effort to bring in more and more business are offering elaborate shows free for the family in an effort to bring more warm bodies into their casinos and out of their competitors. This is a win win situation for tourists and locals alike who are seeking entertainment that will leave a little money in their pockets to spend at the casinos (which is exactly what the casinos were hoping for).

One of the great shows that is available free to families is the Fall of Atlantis Show at Caesar's Palace. This particular show is a laser, water, and light show that features wonderful animatronics action. Also notice that the show's platform is actually a salt-water aquarium. You can see divers feed the fish each day at 1:15 and 5:15 while another staff member is on hand to answer any questions you may have and explain a little about the facility. You can actually take a tour of the facility at 3:15 each day. Enjoy watching the gods as they entertain you rather than us entertaining them.

The Cambridge Community Center offers a free movie and popcorn each Saturday at 1:00. Each week a different movie will be shown and children under 12 must bring an adult to keep them company. You can check out which movie will be playing by checking out the posting on Friday.

Another great Vegas freebie is daily performances of the Hawaiian Marketplace Island Performers. These performances take place throughout the day from 11:00 am until 10:30 pm and feature wonderful dances that will remind you of the island. See hula dancers, fire and knife dancers, musicians, lei makers, and animatronic birds. The performances are free and take place at the Hawaiian Marketplace.

For the Elvis fan in all of us you can see Pete Vallee perform as Big Elvis from Monday to Thursday with shows that take place at 3:00 and 5:00 pm at the Barbary Coast Casino. The admission for this show is free and he brings in quite a crowd with his vocal talent and heartfelt renditions of Elvis' ballads.

M & M World should need no introduction. It is a wonderful and yummy place to visit. More importantly it is a free place to visit. This museum is open Sunday through Thursday from 9 am until 11 pm and Friday and Saturday from 9 am until midnight. This really is a neat attraction to visit and is much more than initially meets the eye. Take a stroll, look around and make sure you see all there is to see or you just might miss something fantastic.

For another sweet freebie, you really must make plans to visit Ethel M's Chocolate Factory. The admission for this self-guided tour is free as is the first sample, but who can eat just one chocolate? Be sure not to leave this tour empty handed, as you'll be kicking yourself once you get back to the room and have a craving for something sinfully sweet. In addition to the chocolate factor is the Botanical Cactus Garden that is open from 8:30 until 7:00 daily. Another great thing to see on this particular tour is the Living Machine, which as waste-consuming ecologies that turns 32,000 gallons wastewater each day into water that is clean enough to use for irrigation purposes.

The Marjorie Barrick Museum of History, which is located on the University of Nevada Las Vegas Campus, is another place to go and learn while being entertained. Admission is Monday through Friday from 8:00 until 4:45 and on Saturday from 10:00 until 2:00. Admission is free and the museum is closed on all state and federal holidays. This museum offers a great display of Western culture and the history of ancient Mexico.

No matter what your specific interests are there are plenty of wonderful things to see and do in Las Vegas that do not put a strain on the pocketbook at all.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Las Vegas Hilton Luxury at its Finest



The Las Vegas Hilton is one of the more luxurious offerings on the Vegas Strip. This hotel has a lot to offer its guests by way of luxury and amenities including several packages that are amazingly generous by comparison to most other hotels along the strip. If you aren't seeing a package that is appealing to you be sure to call and see if you might be able to negotiate a more suitable package.

In addition to world class accommodations and a fully functional casino the Las Vegas Hilton also has some of the best shows running along the strip. Current acts include the likes of Barry Manilow and Menopause the Musical. Future acts include big names such as Johnny Mathis and the Asian Fusion concert series.

Perhaps the most famous attraction at the Las Vegas Hilton however is the Star Trek Experience. The experience is completely out of this world and will have you flying through space in a completely immersive experience that even those who weren't serious fans of the show can appreciate. This is like nothing you've ever experienced before or are likely to enjoy again. There is also a museum that is home to many items from the television series as well as the movies. This is a great addition to your vacation experience even at the rather hefty price tag it commands ($34.99 for adults and $31.99 for children as of this writing and subject to change). If you're going to splurge on one thing during your stay at the Las Vegas Hilton I highly recommend that this be that one thing. There is also the Nemesis Package, which will allow for a reduced rate when purchasing tickets for the Star Trek Experience along with a two-night hotel stay.

Keep in mind if you're actually coming to Las Vegas for the gambling and not to go Trekking through the galaxy, the casino offers tournaments rather regularly and you should really check to be sure there isn't a tournament that interests you during your stay or around the times you are considering your stay.

It is fairly safe to say that while there are many fun things to do in Vegas these hotels and casinos would really appreciate your business in the casino seats rather than watching the shows, riding the rides, and playing the games.

The Las Vegas Hilton also has a full service spa and offers some attractive spa packages to its guests. You'd be doing your body a favor to check out the many packages that are available and combining them in order to get the maximum value for your spa dollar along with your spa visit. You might also consider trying to work a spa comp into your package when booking your room. You'll never know unless you ask.

There is all manner of shopping at the Las Vegas Hilton and you should be able to find nice gifts for others as well as a few nice gifts for yourself. If you don't find what you're looking for here you are close enough to other shopping opportunities, if you drag yourself away from the spa, it's no serious problem to go out and find those perfect gifts, trinkets, and tokens of your good time while visiting Las Vegas. Of course, you simply must visit the Barry Manilow store while you're here and have fun playing with all the nifty toys inside. You also never know when you'll find that perfect gift for friends and family and this store may be the ideal place to look.

If you're looking for a completely luxurious experience for you stay in Las Vegas there are few places that will suit you better than the Las Vegas Hilton. The good news is that you can arrange for your luxurious treatment to be had at a fraction of the price it would cost elsewhere if you pay careful attention to the specials that are available and book accordingly.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Indoor Fun to Beat the Desert Heat




Vegas has become so famous for its casinos and its nightlife that we often forget that there is a thriving city full of people who call this city home. There are businessmen and women, doctors, lawyers, and average Joe citizens who live in this city and have little or nothing to do with the casinos at all. There are entertainers and artists that live far beyond the world of the famous Strip that Vegas more often than not brings to mind.

Vegas is a city that has a cultural center, a religious community, families, and family activities. It is a city in the desert that sees more than its share of sunshine while being particularly vulnerable to rain. It's a city that is famous for it's neon brightness while there are corners of this city that are far removed from that world that is almost as foreign to it's citizens as it is to it's visitors.

Don't overlook the cultural treasure trove that can be found in Vegas by limiting your experience to the Vegas Strip and the offerings of the many casinos. So there is much more to this wonderful city to see and do and enjoy.

If you are looking for some great ideas to enjoy during your stay, perhaps you will find some here or at least find inspiration for your own ideas. One thing to remember about Vegas is that you are in the desert and it is sunny most of year. Even if it isn't necessarily warm outside it's a good idea to avoid being outdoors whenever possible or to be sure you are liberally applying sunscreen and using other means to protect your skin from the ravages of a desert sun.

Here are some of things you can experience during your time in Vegas if you are willing to seek them out: King Tut's Tomb, the car collection at the Imperial Palace, Chaos at Circus Circus, Gameworks by Steven Spielberg, The Imax theatre at the Luxor, In Search of the Obelisk at the Luxor, Las Vegas Sportspark, Lied Discover Children's Museum, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas, Merlin's Magic Motion Machines, Pioneer Saloon, Pirates 4D, Star Trek the Experience, and the Sunset Stampede just to name a few. The best news of all however is that there are constantly more and more activities and adventures being added to the offerings. This means that there is never a shortage of things to see and do while visiting Las Vegas so there's never a valid reason not to come back.

This list is a short list of only indoor activities; you can find a much larger list of things to enjoy if you consider the many things that can be experienced outside under the desert sun. There are other attractions that will also keep you indoors as well. There are actually quite a few museums in Las Vegas; there is M&Ms World, The Lion Habitat at MGM and the White Tiger Habitat at the Mirage. There's also the canal at the Venetian, which is also home to "Streetmosphere" where live actors delight and entertain you with songs and other revelry.

You will find many rides and adventure parks indoors in Las Vegas as well. People find that the desert heat can be a real joy killer for a day out in the sun and indoor adventure parks fair much better while delivering entertainment that is far superior to many of its outdoor counterparts.

If you're looking for a great way to spend a day indoors, there's no shortage of wonderful things to do and see in Vegas so there's really no excuse. In addition to all the things I've mentioned above, Vegas is home to some of the most splendid shopping in America so be sure to pack your two best friends Visa and Master Card and bring them along for the ride. Also keep in mind that there is plenty to do in the great big world outside these walls and consider the great fun you can have exploring the desert climate of Nevada.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Great Vegas Shows for the Family



While Las Vegas is known for many of its shows and not all of them family friendly, it's great to know that there are still a few shows going on that offer a little something for nearly every member of the family. Even some of us grown up viewers aren't as interested in the shock value of many Vegas shows and prefer much tamer forms of entertainment when enjoying our downtime from work and responsibility.

If you never outgrew a love of magic or if you have children of your own that you are hoping to introduce to the wonderment that illusion can bring then Lance Burton, Master Magician has just the show for you to see. He performs at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas Tuesday through Saturday. After you've seen the show, be sure to enjoy the magic of the Monte Carlo.

If you loved the Rat Pack, there is no show in Vegas you'd rather see than the Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey, and Dean, which shows at the Greek Isles Casino on Saturdays through Thursdays. This is the way to see the Rat Pack back in action and remember the great music and entertainment of days gone by. While this is a family friendly show, children must be over the age of five in order to attend.

If you are a product of the 70's and remember ABBA and other musical experiences long gone by you'll have a true appreciation for the magic of this love story that is built around the music of ABBA, which is playing at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas. You can see the show Sunday through Thursday at 7:30 and on Saturdays at 6:00 and 10:00 PM. This is another show that requires children be at least five years of age in order to attend.

Legends in Concert at the Imperial Palace offers a great night of entertainment with impersonators to the stars of today and days long past. This is not a lip-synching show but actual singer and dancers impersonating the best. Sit back, watch, be amazed, and see if you can tell the difference. This show is friendly to children age 2 and over and is a show that is generally very well enjoyed by children of this age. You can watch at 7:30 and 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday.

Treasure Island is offering the wonderful show of Mystere by Cirque du Soleil. This show has delighted audiences around the world and is sure to please even the most difficult to impress in your group. Watch as colors explode right before your eyes. This act consists of 72 dancers, singers, and acrobats along with a somewhat misguided clown. Enjoy this show with the family for a wonderful night of entertainment. This show plays Friday-Tuesday with shows at 7:30 and 10:30.

Caesar's Palace presents Celine Dion to the delight of her fans everywhere. This show plays at 8:30 Tuesdays through Saturdays and is open to children and adults 5 years and older. This show is more than just an ordinary concert, it is a musical experience led by one of the best in the business. If you have the time, this is one show that absolutely should be on your itinerary.

It really doesn't matter what particular music tastes and preferences you have, there is probably a show somewhere in Vegas that will appeal to the music that you hold dear. If you have family with you on your Vegas excursion you owe it to the entire family to find a show that you can all enjoy together. If you have youngster in your group there are shows that you can very much enjoy together, the problem is that these shows will most likely be without loud music as there is a fear of damaging the ears of little ones with loud noises often involved in the musical venues.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Good Family Fun in Vegas



If you are looking for some fun things to do in Las Vegas with or without the family, this should keep you busy for the better part of your travels. Keep in mind that Vegas is a city about lights and action. Most of the attractions will have one or the other if not both of these elements. Enjoy the bright lights of this big city and have as much fun as you can possibly muster during your stay.

The High Roller at the Stratosphere Hotel is a roller coaster, which at 909 feet above ground is the world's highest (keep in mind that competition is fierce among coaster makers and that is subject to change). This roller coaster consists of more than 800 feet of track and offers some sharply banking turns at around 32 miles an hour for your coaster fun and enjoyment. The cost for one trip on this coaster is $5 and passes may be purchased for the day (height restrictions apply).

The Nevada Zoological and Botanical Park is another great way to spend the day. While this is by no means the world's largest zoo it is a nice place to take your kids and visit the wildlife (well some wildlife that isn't located on the strip at any rate) of Las Vegas. Some of the animals you might see include chimpanzees (usually a hit with the little ones), emus, ostriches, wallabies, and flamingos. You can also choose to take a full or half day eco tour of the desert. These tours give you the opportunity to learn to the view the desert a little bit differently and are a great educational experience disguised as fun for your children.

What would a stay at the Venetian Hotel and Casino be without a gondola ride? You do not however have to stay at the Venetian in order to experience this pleasure, nor do you have to venture a transatlantic flight. For an authentic gondola experience you only need to travel as far as the Venetian Hotel and Casino. You will float under bridges as your gondolier serenades you with the sounds of Venice. You can choose an outdoor gondola ride when the weather permits. The outdoor rides are only marginally less expensive and are still quite nice (they might even be preferable on a chilly desert night). Children 12 and under are very inexpensive passengers and if you are traveling with your partner you can opt for a romantic 2 passenger gondola for an added fee. Reservations must be made in person and can only be made the same day beginning at 9 a.m. for the indoor gondola ride and 10 a.m. for the outdoor ride.

If you're old enough to remember the commercials that asked if it was live or it was Memorex then you will understand that reference when it comes to Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. Where else can you play a round of golf with Tiger, sail the seas with Captain Jack Sparrow, marry George Clooney, become a playboy bunny, and sing along side The King? You will see some of Hollywood's brightest stars both living and living memories at Madame Tussauds have fun meeting your favorites. This is a must see stop on your trip to Vegas and will have the entire family rolling with laughter, be sure to bring the camera along for this one.

Vegas might have been a little slow to see the light, but this city is really working to make this a fun place to be for the entire family and it is slowly building a nice selection of activities that don't directly involve gambling or the casinos. The casinos, recognizing good business sense when they see it have been the pioneers of many of these family oriented activities in hopes of encouraging more guests to come back to the city. Be sure to check out all the wonderfully fun things there are to do with the family during your Vegas stay.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Fabulous Vegas Freebies



What self respecting Vegas visitor would ever pay full price if they didn't have to or leave this great city of chance without getting something for nothing. One of the best services I can provide to you is the ability to share these fabulous free finds with anyone that is interested in what I have to offer.

This is better than a 'tell all' book on who did it and why isn't it? The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers a delight to the eyes of the beholder. It is a true delight to all the senses to see the sights and inhale the fragrance of these gardens that display seasonal highlights in plants, flowers, and produce. Each season offers new delights to the senses and there is no admission fee to view these beautiful floral arrangements. This is a great place for a photo op to help you remember your time in Las Vegas.

Have you ever seen water dance? If not, then while you're visiting the Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio, you'll want to stick around long enough to witness the fountains of Bellagio. These shows consist of more than 1000 fountains that are literally dancing in choreographed unison with light to the music (you may be surprised or quite possibly impressed by the extent and variety of the music play list for this particular show). This is also free to witness and occurs every half hour or so after 3:00 PM throughout the week and after noon on the weekends.

If you're looking for more great fun that is free for the entire family to enjoy, head on over to Circus Circus for Circus Acts-this show is free to watch and provides the audience with the thrills and chills of the big top day after day. You can watch different acts as they perform throughout the day at the half hour mark between the hours of 11 AM and Midnight.



Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall offers a stunning display of water and laser lights daily at 2:00, 6:00, 8:00, and 10:00. This show is called "Sunset Stampede" and takes place in a 9-story atrium that hosts a natural habitat of live trees, greenery, waterfalls, and trails.

Another great free attraction in Vegas is the Masquerade Show in the Sky. The show is free to watch, if you choose to participate by riding one of the floats, the cost is $12.95 (that is subject to change). This experience is very reminiscent of Carnivale in Brazil. The floats are literally suspended from the ceiling for the sake of this show which is considered one of the best free shows that Vegas has to offer.

Perhaps one of the most interesting freebies is the Silverton Hotel and Casino's Aquarium. This attraction is completely free to the public and a fascinating thrill to children big and small (even mom's find this one fascinating). Enjoy watching both salt water and freshwater fish in their natural habitats and enjoy the ambiance of your surroundings.

The Sirens of Ti is a great sexy pirates tale that shows at Treasure Island TI daily as the weather allows. This is one great show that the kids, especially little boys that think pirates are the bomb and big boys that enjoy watching ships sink and sirens do what sirens do, will all agree to enjoy together.

Free entertainment is often the best entertainment that can be found. There are so many things to do and see that cost literal fortunes. It is nice to know that there are so many thrilling adventures available for little or no cost to explore while visiting Las Vegas. If you spend wisely, you will discover that you can enjoy the better part of most days filled with activity without breaking your wallet or becoming close personal friends with any creditors(lol).

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Vegas Basics



If you're planning a trip to Vegas in the near future there are a few basic things you should know. First things first, walking shoes are a must for any trip to Vegas. You will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet and will need shoes that can handle standing in lines and walking.

Second, the weather in Vegas is fairly predictable. You are likely to experience rather cool nights, particularly during the months between October and April so bring some warm clothes. You should also be prepared for a lot of sunshine and pack copious amounts of sunscreen in order to protect your skin.

Remember that the times around holidays are often the busiest times in Vegas. If you want to avoid the higher prices and larger crowds you should avoid booking during these times. If those are the times you absolutely wish to stay and play in Vegas you should make plans and book well ahead of time to make sure you have your first choice in accommodations.

It is important to remember that Vegas is indeed a desert town and that you will need to drink plenty of water and moisturize more than you might be accustomed. This is a much drier climate than many people experience in their day-to-day lives and the heat and dryness can sneak up on you for a double whammy if you aren't prepared.

If you're a golfer, you've found heaven and should come prepared. This means you should bring your best clubs along with you and be prepared to play a few rounds. You should probably also bring a nice set of dress clothes in order to catch some of the great shows that are always playing in Vegas. See prior article within this blog that I did on golfing in Vegas.

While Vegas is famous for big spenders, it is quite possible to spend reasonably and have a nice vacation for two at around $100 per day. At the other end of the spectrum, big spenders can drop thousands on one meal very easily. Pay attention to the places you are considering before you enter, if you are on a limited budget.

If you're planning to stray far from your hotel or resort, it's a good idea to rent a car or drive your own. The distances here can be quite conceiving and you can easily loose track of time while enjoying yourself inside the many casinos.

Vegas is almost as famous for weddings as it is for Casinos. If you are hoping to get married Vegas style you have a lot of styles from which to choose and you are not by any means alone. More than 122,000 couples apply for marriage licenses in Vegas each year. The licensing fees for marriage in Vegas is around $55 (this is the current rate, keep in mind that this rate is subject to change) and then there are the fees involved for the chapel you use, the services offered, etc. You can choose to go as informal and small or as bold and lavish as you can afford.

One of the most important things to remember about Vegas is like the new commercials claim, "What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas". So let your hair down and have some fun during your time there and be sure to make plans for your return trip.

This can be a wonderful vacation experience for you whether you are planning a marriage, a golf smorgasbord, a gambling festival, to see your favorite act, or just to spend time with the family hanging out around the pool. Your trip to Vegas is what you make it. I suggest you have as much fun as possible. Enjoy the sights, watch the shows, enjoy the many great buffets, and spend some time at the hotel spa relaxing and rejuvenating as you prepare to go back home and face the outside world yet again.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Halloween attractions in Las Vegas



Las Vegas does it again by going all out for Halloween this year.

The award-winning Fright Dome at Circus Circus takes over the hotel's Adventuredome theme park from October 3 to 31. Expect three new haunted houses: HillBilly Hell, Vampire's Bloodfeast and the Hex-mas Nightmare, complete with falling snow.

The Fright Dome will also house Scare Zones with a haunted 4-D FX theater, "drop demos" who fall from the sky, a haunted 4-D FX theater, and the Xtreme Sideshow Circus, which features performances such as sword-swallower Lady Diabla and Lil' Miss Firefly, one of the smallest girls in the world.

Opening weekend festivities include celebrity appearances by Sid Haig, who appeared as Captain Spaulding in performer and director Rob Zombie's House of 1,000 Corpses" and "The Devil's Reject," and Bill Moseley, who also appeared in both films as well as the horror classic "Halloween."

For more information, call (702)794-3939

Studio 54 at MGM Grand also celebrates Halloween from Oct. 28 through Nov. 1 with the 11th annual Nightmare on 54th Street. The nightclub becomes a spooky place complete with characters such as torture maidens, death warriors, spider girls and wicked nurses.

The best costumes will be awarded cash prizes totaling nearly $20,000.

Travel Booking

Monday, September 29, 2008

How to Really Break Even in Vegas



If you're thinking about a Vegas Vacation you are probably thinking about casinos. Most people who have ever gambled harbor no fantasies of striking it rich when going and playing in casinos. Most of us know the ultimate goal is to go in, play a while, have some fun, get some comps, and go home with about what you walked in with.

Many who gamble on a regular basis know to only bring in a certain amount of money and to not mix gambling money with money that is earmarked for other things. There are a few things that those who are new to the world of gambling can do in order to avoid spending more than you intended. Anyone who has spent much time in a casino will tell you that it is easy to get your money mixed up and end up spending every dime you walked in with thinking you had more money hidden elsewhere.

That being said there is a profound difference in a casual gambler and someone that is willing and expecting to come in and make a hefty investment in the casino. These investments sometimes pay off big time for those who can afford to lose the money. They also can end up costing them big time and taking a while to recover. I recommend starting light.

Hopefully these tips will help you go home with a little money in your pocket;

1) Set a spending limit for each day and night of your stay. This sounds simple enough but you'd be surprised at how difficult this bargain you've made with yourself can be to keep

2) Bring only a specified amount of money into the casino with you and bring it in cash

3) Lock all other ATM, Debit, and credit cards in your room safe along with any traveler's checks and other cash that you have. This prevents the temptation to get one more twenty or fifty until they are all gone. This sounds like a little bit of overkill and people often think they have plenty of self control but there is something about a casino where you lose every bit of common sense you had when you walk in the door. This prevents you from getting in over your head and taking desperate measures

4) Set a time limit for your casino fun and when that time limit is up for the evening/day get up from the table and leave the casino whether you are on the hottest winning streak of your life or not. Winning streak ultimately end at some point. It is better to leave on a high note and have a little extra money to play with the next night(or better yet to take home with you). Leaving at a set time prevents you from getting over tired and making poor decisions based on the altered state of being sleep deprived

5) Win and lose graciously. It will earn you a lot more respect from staff and the other players and you may find them wishing you luck because of your graciousness. In Vegas you can never have too much luck but woe to those whose luck has run out.

Believe it or not, these five tips can save your more money and win you more friends than almost anything, other than a super hot winning streak.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Las Vegas Weather throughout the Year

Check out some of the weather reports recored on Las Vegas weather. These reports are from various sources. Get idea on weather in Las Vegas during spring, summer, winter and fall.



The normal high for Las Vegas in Spring starts around 70 degrees, and by the time Spring is ending the average high is 100. Temperatures as high as 116 have been measured near the end of Spring, that's just a degree short of the highest temperature measured in Las Vegas in the past 80 years. Spring is particularly dry in most years, with less than half an inch, on average falling in the months of April, May, and June combined. Humidity is low, and bottoms out in June.
Source: Ezine

Typical summer weather in Las Vegas brings low humidity and temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. In July and August, moist winds contribute to the humidity. The moist winds tend to develop thunderstorms. The hottest temperature ever recorded was 117 degrees.
Source: Vacation Made Easy

Las Vegas weather is typical of the Mojave Desert, in which it is located, marked with hot summers, mild winters, abundant sunshine year-round, and very little rainfall. High temperatures in the 90’s Fahrenheit are common in the months of May, June, and September and temperatures normally exceed 100 °F (38 °C) most days in the months of July and August, with very low humidity, frequently under 10%.
Source: TPC

As Las Vegas lies at the convergence of three deserts it has an annual average of 294days of sunshine with only four inches of rain. Although the temperature between May and September can be close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), humidity rarely exceeds 20 percent and evening temperatures usually drop to around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).
Source: Las Vegas Hotels Search

Las Vegas is built in a dessert environment, so there is very little humidity and in the daytime the temperatures in the summer are hot and the night time high is about 75°. The Vegas Temperature in the winter hits a high an average high of 62° and a low of 35°.
Source: Vegas Shipster

There are about 300 days of sunshine annually in Las Vegas, making it a year-round destination. Although temperatures are high in Summer, all hotels are comfortably air-conditioned, of course. It is very pleasant in the Spring and Fall.
Source: Las Vegas Hotel

*For all your travel needs - Travel Booking

Monday, September 8, 2008

Romantic Las Vegas Vacation Getaway



Choosing Las Vegas for a romantic vacation doesn’t have to be a gamble!

There's scenic views, romantic restaurants, and a bit of unique Vegas culture to explore...

For getting around the Las Vegas Strip, you don’t really need a car. There's lots of hotel trolley buses, shuttles, and much more.

The Monorail! Yes, the Las Vegas Monorail is an easy way to get up and down the Strip from the MGM Grand on the South to the Sahara on the north end. It's air conditioned, travels up to 50 mph, and costs $3 for a single ride, or $25 for a 3-day pass.

Romantic Activities in Las Vegas
What’s there to do in Las Vegas besides gambling? Actually, plenty! Even though I don't gamble, I found lots of romantic activities in Las Vegas when I visited last year.

The Venetian Hotel & Resort: A romantic Gondola ride down the Grand Canal. Indoors and out (weather permitting), complete with a singing gondolier! And while you're there, the Zeffirino Ristorante rates as perhaps Las Vegas best romantic lunch.

A romantic stroll through the Bellagio's Botanic Gardens & Fountains (nightly shows every 15 min). I think this is one of the most romantic spots in Las Vegas! Oh, and for dinner, I rate the Bellagio as having one of the best buffets in Vegas!

Take the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. Splendid view of the Strip, especially at night with all the lights. And you can dine on the 11th floor in the Eiffel Tower Restaurant. Open till 1 AM.

Las Vegas is King of the Tacky – I had a riot looking through some hilarious gift shops, attractions like the outlandish Liberace Museum, and the “can-you-believe-it” Drive-Through Wedding Chapel! Lot’s of excellent shows too.

Even eating here can be outrageous - midnight steak specials, $.99 shrimp coctails, and all-you-can-eat buffets around every corner. When it's time for a quieter evening, most of the major resorts have excellent sit-down dining with a variety of different settings and atmospheres.

Plus, there’s Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours, Sunset Dinner and Horse Trail Rides, Fashion Outlet Malls, Celine Dion, and Red Rock Canyon for scenic drives and hikes.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Dog Parks in Las Vegas



All American Park
Park includes 1 dog run.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 45

Football Fields ( 5)
Playgrounds (2)
Picnic Areas (2)
Jogging/Walking Track
Tennis Courts (4)
Water Play Area
Restroom Facility
Concession Stand
Open Space Areas
This is a non-reservable park.

Barkin' Basin Park
7.75 acre park designated specifically for dogs.
Adjacent to W. Wayne Bunker Park

Three separated dog cells
Shaded seating areas for owners
Dog and people water fountains

This is a non-reservable park.


Centennial Hills
Park includes 2 dog runs

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 120 (when all phases complete)


Picnic Areas (10)
Sand Volleyball Courts (10)
Soccer Fields (2)
Playgrounds (2)
Water Play Area
Jogging/Walking Path
Restroom Facility
Open Space

For information on reserving this park, please call (702) 229-6718.

Charlie Kellogg and Joe Zaher Sports Complex
The sports complex includes 3 dog runs.

The new state-of-the-art Charlie Kellogg and Joe Zaher Sports complex is set on approximately 110 acres in the northwest part of the Las Vegas valley. The expansive regional park has 11 lighted soccer fields - seven are artificial grass and four are natural turf. It features a three-cell “dogs only” area, children’s play areas, shaded picnic shelters and a large walking/jogging path that surrounds the entire park. The complex is also home to the Amanda and Stacy Darling Memorial Tennis Center, the largest of its kind in the state of Nevada. It includes 23 tennis courts, including one main court with stadium seating for approximately 2800 spectators, a small pro shop, locker rooms and office space. The sports complex will be a huge draw for large tennis and soccer tournaments and is a wonderful addition to the surrounding area.


Children's Memorial Park
Park includes 2 dog runs.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 34.68


Baseball/Softball Fields (6)
Basketball Courts (2)
Bocce Courts (2)
Concession Stand
Fitness Course
Horseshoe Courts (2)
Jogging/Walking Paths (2)
Playgrounds (4)
Roller Hockey Rink
Tennis Courts (2)
Picnic Areas (9)
Restroom Facilities (2)
Dog Park
Open Space

For information on reserving this park, please call (702) 229-6718.


Jaycee Park
Jaycee Park is currently closed for a renovation project that will add a new lighted soccer field and parking lot, a playground area and a small water feature to the 10-acre park. Other improvements include expanding the dog park and reconfiguring pathways, upgrading pathway and security lighting, installing shade structures, reducing turf areas and adding native plantings.

Park includes 2 dog runs.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 18.4

Baseball/Softball Fields (2)
Playgrounds (2)
Basketball Court
Bocce Courts (10)
Fitness Course
Horseshoe Courts (6)
Jogging/Walking Palths (3)
Picnic Areas (13)
Shuffle Board Courts (6)
Restroom Facilities (2)
Open Space


Lorenzi Park
Park includes 2 dog runs.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 59.37

Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza
Baseball/Softball Fields (4)
Basketball Courts (2)
Concession Stand
Fitness Course
Jogging/Walking Path
Playrounds (3)
Pond
Tennis Courts (10)
Picnic Areas (15)
Restroom Facilities (3)
Open Space


Police Memorial Park
Park includes 3 dog runs.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 24


Playgrounds (2)
Dog Park
Basketball Court
Picnic Area
Jogging/Walkiong Path
Tennis Courts (2)
Skate Bowl
Roller Hockey Rink
Desert Garden
Fallen Officer Tree Grove and Memorial Wall
Lou Gehrigs (ALS) Tree Grove
Restroom Facility
Open Space

This is a non-reservable park.


Winding Trails Park
Park includes 1 dog run.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 4

Playground
Walking Path
Picnic Area
Dog Park
Restrooms


Woofter Park
Park includes 2 dog runs.

Other amenities include:
Approximate Acreage: 9

Playground
Fitness Course
Dog Park
Restroom Facility
Open Space
This is a non-reservable park.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Wynn - This weeks featured Las Vegas Hotel

Wynn Las Vegas
3131 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109

Opening date April 28, 2005

Previous names Desert Inn (which includes Wilbur Clark's Desert Inn, ITT Sheraton Desert Inn, and MGM Desert Inn)
No.of rooms 2,716
Permanent shows Le Rêve
Danny Gans (starting Feb. 2009)



Wynn Las Vegas Resort and Country Club (often just called "Wynn") is a AAA five diamond/Mobil four-star and Mobil five-star (for The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas) casino resort located on the Las Vegas Strip in Las Vegas, Nevada. The US$2.7 billion resort is named after casino developer Steve Wynn and is the flagship property of Wynn Resorts Limited. The resort covers 215 acres (0.87 km2).

It is located at Las Vegas Boulevard South and Sands Avenue (on the N.E. corner), directly across The Strip from the Fashion Show Mall.

The 2,715 rooms range in size from 640 square feet (58 m²) to the villas at 7,000 square feet (650 m²) with a 111,000 ft² (10,200 m²) casino, a convention center with 223,000 ft² (20,700 m²) of space, 76,000 square feet (7,000 m²) of retail space.

The Wynn does not have any floors that start with the number 4, since it is an unlucky number in Chinese culture.

History
View north from Las Vegas Boulevard. The site was assembled by buying the Desert Inn Hotel and golf course for most of the land. The remainder was acquired by purchasing private residences that were generally located along Paradise Avenue. While some owners sold early on, others held out. This resulted in numerous legal actions between the various parties. In the end, the site acquired totaled 215 acres (870,000 m²).

Wynn Las Vegas LLC contracted with Marnell Corrao Associates on June 4, 2002 to design and build the resort. The original name for the project was "Le Rêve" but was changed to "Wynn Las Vegas" well before the project was complete. The original name lives on in the stage production. Built at a cost of US$2.7 billion, it was the largest privately-funded construction project in the nation. This compares with the budget for reconstruction with the World Trade Center site which at that time was projected to be $1.7 billion.[citation needed]

The historic Desert Inn Golf Course was rebuilt while the hotel was being constructed. The course is now known as Wynn Golf and Country Club.

Early advertising for the resort featured exterior images of the hotel tower, with Steve Wynn standing on the roof, just above his signature logo. The initial commercial aired in some local spots during the 2005 Super Bowl, and eventually national spots as opening drew near. A "teaser" website for the resort included both the commercial and a "making-of" video.

The resort was featured on an episode of the Fine Living network's What Makes it Tick.

Wynn Las Vegas, designed by Jon Jerde, opened on April 28, 2005, Wynn's wife's birthday, the 55th Anniversary of the opening of the original Desert Inn, and five years from the day Steve Wynn purchased the site. When it opened, the Wynn had many firsts and notable features, including:

The first Vegas casino to combine the room key and the casino frequent-player card in one card
The first casino to include a car (Ferrari-Maserati) dealership
The world's largest distribution of HDTV, into hotel rooms using high-speed Cat-6 Ethernet cables
The largest installation of Voice over IP technology for hotel phones
The tallest hotel building on the strip
It was also among the first casinos to install RFID tags inside chips to better detect counterfeiting.


Inspiration and vision
Wynn taken from the freeway in Las VegasWynn purchased the Desert Inn hotel and casino to obtain property for his future dreams. The Desert Inn was imploded to make room for his new hotel project. Along the way, Wynn Resorts Limited was formed and continued development with Wynn being the controlling stock holder.

Wynn has stated that the major shift with this new resort is the concept of designing from the "inside out." In contrast to his previous hotels Bellagio, The Mirage, and Treasure Island, there is no Las Vegas Strip attraction to draw in passers-by. Instead, visitors must venture inside to see what the hotel is all about. Wynn has said that "there is no franchise in a casual observer, there is a franchise in a guest."

Restaurants
Alex
Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare
Stratta
The Country Club - an American Steakhouse
Daniel Boulud Brasserie
Okada
Red 8 - Asian Bistro
Sugar & Ice (in the Wynn Esplanade)
SW Steakhouse
Tableau
Terrace Point Café
The Buffet
The Drugstore Café
Wing Lei
Zoozacrackers


Wynn Dealers Controversy
On May 12 and 13, 2007, Wynn dealers voted 444-149 in favor of representation by the Transportation Workers Union. The vote is a result of controversial policy changes made by Wynn to share tips with floor staff.

Attractions

Penske-Wynn Ferrari-Maserati dealership
Wynn Las Vegas is the first casino to include a luxury car dealership. Brand new factory-authorized cars include the Ferrari and Maserati brands. Used cars are sold "as-is" and include other luxury car brands, with some cars on display ranging in price from little more than $100,000 to $1.6 million. The dealership also includes parts and other car-wares.

Non-buying guests of the resort can go into the dealership to take a look around. When the resort opened, there was no fee to enter, but the dealership became so crowded that management began charging $10 for admission;[5] registered Ferrari-Maserati owners are exempted from this fee, as well as children accompanying paying adults. The Penske-Wynn is one of the few casino car exhibits in Las Vegas metropolitan area. Other exhibits can be found at the Imperial Palace and Caesars Palace. However, the Penske-Wynn Ferrari-Maserati dealership is the only casino/dealership in the Las Vegas area.

The dealership is placed near the valet parking of the resort, so that people can look at the model cars while waiting for their own cars to arrive.

The cars are not the only thing that the resort offers with the Ferrari name. A Ferrari Store accompanies the dealership, Offering such goods as apparel, racing merchandise, electronics, and even a home gym all branded with the Ferrari logo. This is the first ever factory authorized Ferrari Store in North America and only the seventh in the world. The staff wear Ferrari pit crew outfits and a sound system blasts engine noises as would be heard on a race track.


The Wynn Art Collection
The Wynn Art Collection
The Wynn Gallery, which had charged an entrance fee, closed shortly after the start of 2006 as a result of poor ticket sales. The artwork from the former gallery is now scattered around the resort.


Lake of Dreams
In a departure from the trend established when The Mirage opened of providing free sidewalk attractions to draw in customers, Wynn Las Vegas is constructed so that visitors must enter the building to view the free attractions. The main attraction is a large, curtain waterfall behind a mountain that faces the strip. The waterfall falls into a 3 acre (12,000 m²) lake. Both the waterfall and lake have images displayed on them to produce a show called "Lake of Dreams". This show starts on the hour beginning in the afternoon. When the show is inactive, the waterfall creates an animated color sequence on the screen.

The show can be viewed from the Parasol Up (a bar and viewing area), and can be viewed through a glass window with no audio. Or, the show can be viewed from Parasol Down, with a larger view. Visitors can go to the platform at the Parasol Down bar to view the show with full-volume audio. Those dining at SW Steakhouse or Daniel Boulud Brasserie may also have a full view of the show while dining. Children under 18 are prohibited from going to Parasol Down.


Shows

Le Rêve
The first production show to open was Le Rêve. Le Rêve is set in a 1 million gallon water-oriented theatre where no seat is more than 40 feet (12 m) from the stage. The production was created by Franco Dragone and is similar to the shows produced by Cirque du Soleil.

Le Rêve was the working name of the resort before it was changed to Wynn Las Vegas. "Le Rêve" means "The Dream" in French, and the name of the centerpiece painting that Steve Wynn owns, Le Rêve by Picasso.

Most recently, Wynn Las Vegas bought the rights to the show from Dragone to make some changes, including the logo. Wynn now owns all rights to the show, with Dragone still in the label.


Avenue Q
Avenue Q, a puppet and people musical which enjoyed considerable success on Broadway, was the second production show to open at Wynn. It debuted on September 8, 2005 in the 1,200 seat Broadway Theatre and closed on May 28, 2006.

According to Steve Wynn Avenue Q was shut down due to the lack of real estate and the exorbitant costs of constructing a new venue. Wynn had a contract with Spamalot to perform at Wynn Las Vegas, but this required a third theater to be built. Potential sites for the theater included the skirts of the golf course or a portion of the convention space in the planned Encore expansion tower. Since Wynn did not want to build on the golf course or cut between the convention spaces of Encore and Wynn Las Vegas, he was forced to terminate the Avenue Q contract. Wynn was quoted as saying "Avenue Q was making money, but not enough money."


Monty Python's Spamalot
Spamalot, a Tony Award-winning comedic musical based on Monty Python and the Holy Grail, opened for previews on March 8, 2007 at Grail Theater (formerly, The Broadway Theater). The official run began on March 31, 2007 and starred John O'Hurley as King Arthur through September 26, 2007. An understudy was the lead as Mr. O'Hurley was on sabbatical until January 28, 2008. The show closed on July 13, 2008.


Danny Gans
On April 17, 2008 Wynn Resorts announced that current Mirage headliner Danny Gans will move to the resort in February 2009.[7] Gans will move into the theater formerly used by both Avenue Q and Spamalot, which will be renamed Encore Theater and be marketed as part of the Encore expansion.


Nightclubs
Tryst
Tryst is now the flagship of the Wynn's nightlife scene.
Blush
Blush opened on Labor Day 2007.

Restaurants
Alex
Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare
Stratta
The Country Club - an American Steakhouse
Daniel Boulud Brasserie
Okada
Red 8 - Asian Bistro
Sugar & Ice (in the Wynn Esplanade)
SW Steakhouse
Tableau
Terrace Point Café
The Buffet
The Drugstore Café
Wing Lei
Zoozacrackers

Shops and boutiques
Wynn Esplanade Shoppes
Black Satin Intimates
Brioni
Chanel
Christian Dior
Manolo Blahnik
Cartier
Oscar de la Renta
Louis Vuitton
Vertu
Alexander McQueen
Jo Malone
Graff Jewelers
Judith Leiber
Black Satin
Wynn Signature Shop
Shoe-In
OutFit
Wynn & Company - Jewelry
Wynn LVNV
San Giorgio

In Wynn Las Vegas
Decorazzi
Bags, Belts & Baubles
Tiny Baubles
Cabana Shop (on Pool Deck)
The Drugstore
Mojitos Resort Wear
The Pro Shop
W.Ink
Ferrari Store
The Show Shop

Amenities

Wynn Golf and Country Club
18th green
The Wynn Golf and Country Club is the only golf course on the Las Vegas Strip. It was designed by Steve Wynn and Tom Fazio, who previously worked together on the Shadow Creek Golf Club, in neighboring North Las Vegas. Use of the course is restricted to hotel guests at a cost of $500 per round.


The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas
The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas consists of all rooms and suites in the separated southernmost section of the main tower. These rooms and suites have a private driveway and entrance, a separate check-in area and elevators, and a private pool area. In 2006, The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas was evaluated independently from the rest of the property by Mobil Travel Guide for their 2007 ratings. It was awarded the first and only Mobil Five-Star rating ever awarded to a hotel in Las Vegas. Wynn Las Vegas itself received the Mobil Four-Star rating for 2007.


Villa Suites
In addition to the Fairway Villas, Wynn Las Vegas contains six Villa Suites which are not available to the general public. One of these villas is the private residence of Steve Wynn.[9] Three of these villas are along the West side of the hotel, between the tower and the Lake of Dreams. The other three are located along the Western edge of the pool area, South of the tower. In February of 2007, Wynn requested approval to build four additional villa suites on the South edge of the property.

The Villas by the Golf Course cost an average $5,000 a night.

Future development
Encore
On 28 April 2006, the resort celebrated its one year anniversary by breaking ground on a second hotel tower.[10] Called Encore, the tower will be a $2.1 billion, 2,034 room hotel project adjacent to the existing resort and on the remaining frontage of Las Vegas Blvd.


Wynn Golf Course redevelopment
Wynn Resorts are developing a long-range master plan for the 142-acre (0.57 km2) golf course that will include a large mixed-use hotel, casino entertainment resort complex. The complex may include multiple waterfront hotels built around a lake offering water sports and other entertainment. The complex also may include multiple restaurants, retail offerings and entertainment venues. Wynn Resorts have not yet developed specific plans for such a complex, and there can be no assurance that such plans will be developed. Wynn Resorts cannot predict the cost of such a development or whether Wynn Resorts will be able to obtain the necessary financing for the development on suitable terms, if at all. It is not expected that any construction on the golf course land would begin before 2009.


Additional villas
In February of 2007, Wynn Las Vegas submitted a request for approval to construct four additional villas on the South side of the property, which would bring the total number of villas to ten. The description of the new villas closely matches that of the six existing villas on the property.


*Article provided by - Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., a U.S. registered 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit charity

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Featured Las Vegas Golf Courses



Arroyo at Red Rock Country Club



The Arroyo is the only golf course available to the public at the Red Rock Country Club, located close to Red Rock Canyon, golfers can expect amazing views while playing this golf course. This Arnold Palmer signature course has gone through recent upgrades on holes 17 through 19, if you haven't played the Arroyo in a while, we recommend you do for a new experience.

The Red Rock Country Club Experience
Because the Arroyo is located at Red Rock Country Club you can expect a true country club experience. Red Rock Country Club was originally built as a private club featuring an 18 hole golf course. An additional 18 holes were added and the combined 36 holes were divided between two golf courses. The Arroyo features several holes that were part of the original Red Rock Country Club.

Playing the Arroyo Course at Red Rock Country Club
The Arroyo Golf Course is not overly long, only 6,800 yards, but it makes up for it on the par-3's. This is a classic golf course offering different sets of tees to accommodate any level of golfer. The fairways are generous but the greens are well protected by water and sand.

Las Vegas Country Club



The Las Vegas Country Club offers a vintage experience for golfers who want to experience some true Las Vegas history. With panoramas of the Las Vegas cityscape, this private golf course is a pure pleasure to play. It will test players' shotmaking skills throughout the round. Designed by Edmond B. Ault, the course first opened in the fall of 1967 and has been a staple of Las Vegas golf ever since. Enjoy the 44,000 square foot clubhouse, along with the grill and atmosphere you'll find here.



Reflection Bay Golf Club



Reflection Bay Golf Club was the first public golf course to open at the Lake Las Vegas Resort. The golf course plays host to the nationally televised "Wendy's Three Tour Challenge".

Reflection Bay is fairly long playing over 7,200 yards but several elevation changes shor ten the golf course from the card length. One of the main features of Reflection Bay Golf Course is the use of water as both a hazard and visual enhancement, the course features 5 holes which play along the shoreline of the beautiful Lake Las Vegas.

Reflection Bay Golf Club features many of the characteristics that you would expect to find on a Jack Nicklaus design as well as a 5-Star golf resort. Wide fairways, large greens, a n innovative forecaddie program and great course conditions can always be expected at Reflec tion Bay.



Siena Golf Club



Siena Golf Club opened in 1999, the golf course couples deep bunkers and several reachable par-5's to provide character to the course.

Great Course Conditions Year Round at Siena Golf Club
Siena Golf Club prides itself on great course conditions and fast greens. The greens utilize a special grain of Rye Grass which thrives in both hot and cold conditions, making Siena one of the best choices for Summer and Winter golf in Las Vegas. Siena measures only slightly over 6,800 yards from the back tees but still challenges golfers of all skill levels.

Siena Golf Club was designed by Schmidt-Curley, who spent much of their early career studying under Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. The greens at Siena represent the putting ability of Jack Nicklaus. These greens are typically fast, large and have lots of swells on them. Checking the location of the pin is a must at Siena Golf Club.

Playing Siena Golf Club
The 18th hole on the Siena Golf Course is a great finishing hole. This short par-4 is onl y 400 yards but plays uphill from the tee. The tee shot must carry to the upper level of the fairway to have any chance of going for the green. On the right side of the hole is another menacing bunker and out of bonds. The best line on this hole is the lone tree that sits on the left side of the fairway. Try to hit the power fade and get as close to this green as possible. The fairway slopes from left to right so the ground will act as a buffer from the left rough.




Silverstone Golf Club



Silverstone Golf Club in Las Vegas offers 27 championship holes surrounded with lush greens, rolling mounds, and spectacular views of Sheep Mountain.

Silverstone will test the best of golfers. With four sets of tee boxes on each hole, this golf course provides a challenging and memorable experience for golfers of all levels.

Silverstone is conveniently located 25-30 minutes from the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Definitely three unforgettable nine-hole layouts you'll enjoy again and again and again.



The Falls Golf Club



The Falls Golf Club is one of the signature golf courses located at the Lake Las Vegas Resort. This resort is located about 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. The golf course was designed by Tom Weiskopf who directed the Falls between rugged desert landscape and shoreline holes.

The Falls Golf Club recently introduced a forecaddie program that pairs one caddy with each group to help with local golf course knowledge and perform the duties you would expect from the a tour caddy. These duties include raking bunkers, cleaning golf balls and reading putts.

The Falls Golf Club is very well manicured and golf course conditions are extremely important. Both the fairways and greens are fast and the ball tends to roll. This will be another factor in shortening the length of this golf course. It is not unusual to hit several 300 yard drives during the day.

The back nine starts across the road and into the hills that surround the lake. The back nine has far more dramatic elevation changes than the front nine. The 12th hole is a medium length par-5 that features a semi-blind tee shot. The best line off the tee is toward the bunker located on the right side of the center fairway.

The Falls Golf Club is a great test of golf. The numerous sets of tees, fast fairways, good variety of holes and great courses conditions make it fun for any skill level of golfer. The added touch of a forecaddie really enhances the experience. With several hotels in the a rea this is a great place to spend the week.




TPC Las Vegas




TPC Las Vegas (formerly TPC Canyons) is the only PGA Tour owned public facility in Las Vegas. TPC Las Vegas has been hosting professional golf events for the past decade

TPC Las Vegas offers you A PGA Tour Experience
TPC Las Vegas is a great chance for the average golfer to play a golf course the PGA pros play. In an attempt to make the experience as real as possible, TPC Las Vegas has a forecaddie program in place depending on the season. Each group has one caddie that will act as a guide around the golf course. They will let players know yardages, tend pins and help the players out in any way possible.

Playing TPC Las Vegas
TPC Las Vegas plays slightly over 7,000 yards and cuts a path through the rugged desert that surrounds the golf course. On many holes the player will be forced to carry a desert area in order to find the fairway. There is only one hole on the golf course that has water next to the green. The 18th hole is a very dramatic and demanding finishing hole.

TPC Las Vegas is PGA Tour Conditions Open To the Public
TPC Las Vegas is usually in tournament condition. Many touring professionals who reside in Las Vegas like to practice at this facility. Touring professionals like to practice in conditions they experience week in and out on the tour, TPC Las Vegas provides this on a regular basis.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

50 Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas



There are 1001 things to do in Las Vegas. Not only along the four-mile, neon-drenched Strip and the glittering Freemont Street Experience, Downtown. For tourist-style amenities and entertainment, but at bargain rates, check out the "locals" casino hotels, located away from the Strip and the downtown area.

Listed on this page are 50 favorite things to do in Las Vegas. Most are free or are priced for budget travellers. Enjoy and have fun!

1. See the White tigers at Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden: The Mirage
2. Lake of Dreams at Wynn. 140 foot mountain covered with 1500 trees, waterfall and
three-acre lake.
3. Get face to face with sharks at Shark Reef, Mandalay Bay
4. Animated birds and animals: Sam's Town atrium
5. One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas: Be entertained by strolling mimes:
Canal Shoppes, Venetian
6. Classic car collection: Imperial Palace
7. High impact motion simulator rides at Luxor.
8. Don't miss the $70 million Fremont Street Experience, downtown.
9. See "Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition" at the Tropicana
10. Visit the Dolphin habitat at The Mirage



11. See the world's largest atrium: Luxor
12. Visit the glitziest museum in the world: Liberace Museum (1775 E. Tropicana)
13. 1,200 feet off the ground roller coaster: on top of the Stratosphere Tower
14. View an exquisite collection of fine art: Bellagio
15. Love hamburgers and Harley's?: Harley-Davidson Cafe
16. There are Flamingos and African penguins at the Flamingo Hilton
17. X-Scream thrill ride 900 feet above the strip at Stratosphere.
18. Visit Madame Toseau's wax museum: Venetian
19. Watch the dragon battle against the magician: Excalibur's moat
20. Ride the roller coaster: New York-New York




21. Submerging yourself in a magnificent garden of fragrance and color at the
Bellagio is another of the things to do in Las Vegas.
22. Visit the Guinness Book of World Records Museum (2780 Las Vegas Blvd. S.)
23. See the New York City skyline: New York-New York Hotel/Casino
24. Watch the dancing fountains: Bellagio Hotel/Casino
25. Circus style performances every 45 minutes at Circus Circus
26. Take a paddlewheel cruise on Lake Mead: Desert Princess (293-6180)
27. See one of world's largest gold nuggets: Golden Nugget
28. Ride a runaway train (Excalibur's Magic Motion Machines)
29. See the world's largest collection of gambling books: Gambler's Book Club (630
E. 11th)
30. Stroll under a changing simulated sky: Forum Shops at Caesars




31. See the only pyramid-shaped hotel in the world: Luxor
32. One of the typical things to do in Las Vegas: Swim-up blackjack table at the
Tropicana
33. Carnival Midway, over 200 games at Circus Circus
34. Witness a volcano eruption: The Mirage
35. Fountain sculptures come to life: Forum Shops at Caesars
36. See the largest Coke Bottle at the Coca Cola Store, Showcase Mall.
37. Visit the Eiffel Tower: Paris Hotel & Casino
38. Cheapest way to get around: Shuttle bus
39. Best place to visit small town America: Boulder City, where gaming is still
illegal
40. Watch the surf at the wave pool: Mandalay Bay



41 Best casino for covering large bets: Binion's Horseshoe
42 Biggest poker room on the Strip: The Mirage
43 Best sports books for style: Las Vegas Hilton
44 Best get-away from the Strip: Red Rock Canyon
45 Best place for people watching: Caesars Forum Shops
46 Ride in a gondola: Venetian
47 Eat the largest hot dog: Slots-A-Fun, next to Circus Circus
48 Best reason to rise early: to see the sunrise over the desert
49 Tour the cactus garden and sample chocolates: Ethel M Chocolate Factory
50 The best of all the things to do in Las Vegas: Gamble! Gamble! Gamble!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

What You Need to Know About Las Vegas Entertainment



Las Vegas Entertainment
One thing that every visitor to Las Vegas soon discovers is that the city offers some of the most fantastic evenings out in the world. Las Vegas entertainment goes on 24 hours a day, and is one of the most amazing parts of any vacation in the city. Whether you want to see live music, a Broadway style musical, watch a magic show, comedy performance, or even go to the circus, Las Vegas is the place where you can do it.

All of the major hotels and casino resorts have their own theatres and these are where you go for the best Las Vegas entertainment available. These vast auditoriums are designed in order to offer all the guests a great view of the stage, and because the competition between the different Las Vegas hotels is so hard, the quality of the acts and shows that you can see in the city are really first cLoss.

Without a doubt, music is close to the heart of the Las Vegas Entertainment scene, and this has been the case throughout the relatively short history of the city. Perhaps the most famous act ever to take to the stage in the city was the king, Elvis Presley, who had a long career as an entertainer in the city.

Nowadays, the kind of music that you get to see in Las Vegas hotels could be as diverse as a DJ Set from Armand Van Helden or a country and western performance from Dwight Yokam.

Another popular form of Las Vegas Entertainment is magic, and amongst the best known acts that you can see in the city, the David Copperfield performances are some of the most remarkable performances in the world, while the stunning performances that Siegfried and Roy and their animals do are truly heart stopping.

Over the past few years, spectacular music and acrobatics have been performed in the city by the famous Cirque du Soleil. There are numerous shows on offer amongst the different Las Vegas hotels, and many of the packages to go and see the shows also include a meal at the hotel.

Although many people visit the city for the casinos, the fact is that the vast majority of visitors will actually take advantage of the Las Vegas Entertainment options at least once during their visit to the city. Thanks to all the different types of show that are on offer at all the different venues at the hotels along the strip, in addition to the various smaller niche entertainment opportunities that are available in the rest of the city.

When you visit Las Vegas, it is a good idea to book tickets to any shows that you want to see before you leave home, because the most popular shows are always very busy, and it can be tricky to get a good seat if you leave it too long, and you could miss out.

Top acts such as Elton John who play shows in Las Vegas regularly will sell out 20,000 seat auditoria months in advance, so if there is a chance to see him when you visit, and that is the kind of Las Vegas entertainment that you are looking for, then check out the latest deals for show tickets online before you miss out.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Trump sets up shop in Vegas with posh, smoke-free hotel

Trump sets up shop in Vegas with posh, smoke-free hotel



Just off the Strip: The smoke-free Trump International Hotel & Tower doesn't have a casino, but it certainly doesn't scrimp on service.

What's new: Trump International Hotel & Tower Las Vegas
Claim to fame: The Apprentice mogul Donald Trump makes his first move into Sin City. But unlike his Atlantic City properties, there's no casino here. And it's smoke-free.

Vital statistics: A 64-floor glass tower with 1,282 condo suites; about 300 currently are rented out as hotel accommodations.

The scene: Serene. Set by itself off the Strip near Wynn Las Vegas and the Fashion Show shopping mall, the 2-month-old Trump (quiet as a tomb during this reporter's visit) is the antithesis of your typical, line-up-to-check-in Vegas casino hotel. Affable and attentive staffers in hip suits and dresses designed by Trump's daughter Ivanka usually outnumbered guests and condo residents in the marble lobby with chandeliers, crystal-beaded pillars and living-room-style cocktail lounge.

Bedding down: Trump's Atlantic City digs aren't known for understated tastefulness, but suites here are aces in that department. Kudos to Trump kids Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric, who oversee his new hotels. The look is modern, chic and upscale residential. Suites are decorated in subdued chocolate, butterscotch and cream tones. Blond wood cabinets have books and objets d'art on shelves. Even the smallest studio has a fully equipped kitchen, cooktop and Sub-Zero fridge, plus marble bathroom with jetted soaking tub and separate glassed-in shower spacious enough for four. The only tacky touch: a welcome gift of "Trump Ice" spring water, whose bottle bears the likeness of The Donald. Tip: If train whistles bother you, ask for a room on the street side of the tower.

Who'll like it: Those with a taste for luxury, tranquility and peel-me-a-grape service. Staffers are notably caring, personable and proud to have Trump on their résumés.

Who won't: Serious gamblers, smokers and the party crowd.

Wining & dining: Food and drink are priced for high rollers ($11 for "Mr. Trump's whipped potato purée"), but of fine quality. Be prepared to drop $15 on a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and $26 on a scrumptious lobster Cobb salad. Dinner entrees at the DJT restaurant, offering "modern American" cuisine created by Trump Sr.'s personal chef, run $34-$68.

Indulgences: An "attaché" button on the phone to call Trump's spin on butler service; TV images that magically appear on the bathroom mirror at the touch of the remote; a spa and outdoor pool with servers who offer Trump sunscreen; a giant martini shaker in every room.

The deal: You can score a $199 midweek rate through Sept. 1 for a top Vegas lodging choice that would probably cost three times as much in Manhattan.

Information: 866-939-8786; TrumpLasVegasHotel.com

By USA Today - Travel News

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Las Vegas Pet Friendly Hotels



So you just can’t leave Fluffy at home. Well, luckily for you, there are some pet friendly hotels in Las Vegas that allow you to bring your furry little friend along with you. Now you don’t have to leave your pets in a kennel or pay a pet-sitter – they too can enjoy the excitement of Vegas, or at least the excitement of waiting around for you, as you enjoy Vegas.

There are not a wide range of pet friendly Las Vegas hotels, but there are enough to satisfy most travelers. If you want to stay at a strip hotel, you might have a problem: there are only two places you’ll be able to store your pet. The highly rated Four Seasons, just south of Mandalay Bay.

The Four Seasons has a couple rules that need to be followed for them to accept your pet. First, it must be under 25 pounds (similar weight restrictions abound through pet friendly hotels in Las Vegas), and second, and more difficult, your pet must not be left unattended. There is, however, no additional pet fee for keeping your pet here.

When you are considering Las Vegas pet friendly hotels, make sure to check which pets are allowed – hotels such as La Quinta or Travelodge must be dogs or cats. Even if the pets are small or exotic, they will be turned away. So don’t go trying to sneak your flying squirrels or 6 foot pythons into these establishments.

Another, technically, pet friendly Las Vegas strip hotel is Circus Circus. This is a technicality, however, since pets are not allowed inside the actual rooms or casino, but are restricted to the Circusland RV Park adjacent to the hotel. In fact, if you are looking to bring pets into the city, Las Vegas RV parks are a good bet. But if you don’t happen to have a recreational vehicle handy, most Vegas motels allow reasonably sized pets (under 50 lbs) and charge only a deposit instead of a non-refundable fee. The relative lack of popularity of these motels also means that they are much easier to book than the Las Vegas pet friendly hotels, too.

Overall, the majority of pet friendly hotels in Las Vegas are the lower grade airport hotels. Howard Johnson Inn and Amerisuites both allow dogs and cats of all kinds for a small deposit, as does every Best Western within city limits.

For those who want high class pet friendly Las Vegas hotels would do good to look at off-strip wonders such as the Green Valley Ranch and the Red Rock Resort and Spa. As long as they are under the 50 pound weight limit and you don’t mind paying a little extra to accommodate your trusted pet, these lodgings are perfect for you.

By Destination360

Monday, July 28, 2008

Is a Las Vegas Wedding right for you?




Every year, some 120,000 weddings are performed in Las Vegas, making it the most popular destination wedding site by far. But is a Las Vegas wedding right for you? If you’re a traditional-minded couple -- or if one of you has been planning your wedding since puberty -- the answer is probably no.

On the other hand, if you want to get married quickly and are open to something different, a Las Vegas wedding could be perfect for you.

Below you’ll find some of the plusses and minuses of having a wedding in Las Vegas. If you decide to go ahead with it, you’ll be in the company of such notables as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, Michael Jordan, Wayne Newton, and, briefly, Britney Spears.

PROS OF A LAS VEGAS WEDDING
Affordability – This is the biggest advantage of a Las Vegas wedding. While a traditional US wedding costs $22,000 on average, you can have a complete wedding ceremony for a few hundred dollars (or less) in Las Vegas.

Timing – You will be able to book a chapel for your wedding in Las Vegas on short notice. Reservations are helpful, although walk-ins are accommodated in some places. Just don’t expect to sweep into a Las Vegas wedding chapel on Valentine’s Day or a popular holiday weekend and get married right away.

Convenience – At Las Vegas hotels with wedding chapels, there’s usually a wedding coordinator who can arrange everything from your wedding flowers to the officiant to music and photography/videography. And you can plan it all over the phone or even online.

Fun – Couples who’ve been married before, older couples, and couples who love to laugh appreciate the ease of a Las Vegas wedding. And if you want to get married in Las Vegas by an Elvis impersonator, who's to stop you?

Start the Honeymoon Early – No need to get on a plane or head out of town after the wedding. Las Vegas is more than a great wedding town – Las Vegas is a great honeymoon destination, too.

CONS OF A LAS VEGAS WEDDING

Your Wedding, Your Way – There’s no comparison between a wedding planned months or years in advance with a quickie Las Vegas one. If you’re someone who cares about having specific wedding colors, custom favors, a certain baker, local florists and bands, and other elements that personalize a wedding, you may not be satisfied with a standard Las Vegas wedding package.

Conveyor Belt Mentality – While Las Vegas wedding chapels attempt to keep wedding parties separate, they don’t always succeed. Some Las Vegas hotels have more than one chapel, so you may encounter people from other wedding parties. At one of the better Las Vegas wedding chapels, couples have one hour of chapel time: 30 minutes for guest arrival and seating, 15 minutes for the ceremony, and 15 minutes for photography. If you walk down the Las Vegas Strip later (or even pause at a craps table for a while), you’re likely to see several other brides and grooms on your special day.

Guest List – If you live far from Las Vegas, some friends and family members will be unable to afford the expense or time to travel to Vegas to see you get married. (On the other hand, this is a perfect way to avoid having marginal friends and family attend your wedding.)

Reception Sites – Las Vegas wedding chapels are just that: Places where weddings are conducted. If you want to have a reception afterwards, that has to be arranged separately. Larger hotels have banquet and meeting rooms which are mostly used for corporate functions. I recommend a private room in a restaurant.

Tacky Image – Despite the best efforts of Las Vegas' finest hotels -- which can produce gala affairs second to none -- Las Vegas weddings are still considered tacky by some.

ALL THE BEST

Whether or not you decide to wed or honeymoon in Las Vegas, keep this in mind: It's ultimately less important where you seal your vows than it is that you say them with a true heart -- and live them throughout your marriage.