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May 19, 2010
Las Vegas is known for being the gambling mecca of North America. Indeed, no place on the continent has more casinos. However, opportunities for entertainment without gambling abound in this desert oasis.
Whether approaching Las Vegas by plane or by car, it is impossible not to notice the spectacle of the Las Vegas Strip (South Las Vegas Boulevard). Despite the fact that nearly everything along the Strip is a casino, these facilities offer plenty of attractions aside from slots and table games. Most of the modern casinos are attractions in themselves, often complete with shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife.
The Luxor, for example, is in the shape of a giant pyramid. Whether viewing from outside or inside, it is a sight to behold. The entire interior is decorated in an Egyptian theme. The MGM Grand displays lions for your enjoyment, while the Mirage shows white tigers. Naturally, the Flamingo has flamingos. The Bellagio is known for its night time dancing fountain, but it also exhibits flowers in the Conservatory. To continue the floral theme, the ceiling of the lobby is covered with glass flowers designed by Dale Chihuly. The Venetian is set up so that the inside appears to be like the outdoors in Venice—complete with a canal and gondola rides. The city contains several other equally impressive sights with attractions of their own.
Las Vegas is also known for its many shows. The offerings are far from just Wayne Newton and Tom Jones. Singers like Bette Midler, Celine Dion, and Cher have all performed in Las Vegas. Of course, impersonator shows are also popular. To add to the music, a few song and dance revues are still performed at night. In addition, magicians amaze audiences with their illusions: Lance Burton does a traditional family-oriented show, while Penn and Teller mix comedy with a less conventional performance. Comedians from Wayne Brady to Louie Anderson take the stage all over Las Vegas to bring uproarious laughter to crowds. Finally, entertainment in Las Vegas would not be complete without Cirque du Soleil. This troupe has several shows running in Las Vegas to dazzle audiences with feats of acrobatics. Thus, Las Vegas offers entertainment for all tastes.
While not as plentiful as entertainment options, Las Vegas does have some amusement-style rides as well. The New York-New York and Sahara casinos have roller coasters. However, the Stratosphere tops these rides for thrill-seekers. The Stratosphere is the tallest structure in Las Vegas at over 1000 feet, and the rides are at the top. These rides involve dangling over the edge and shooting up from the rooftop at a high rate of speed. They are certainly not for the faint of heart. While the city is no match for a full-fledged amusement park, it does offer some unique opportunities for the ride-lover.
Las Vegas has customarily been known for its cheap food. While some of this food is still offered (particularly off the Strip), the city offers some of the finest restaurants and cuisine in the United States. All of the major casinos have multiple eateries, from sit-down to buffet style. The buffets are often enormous. The other restaurants can range from typical American fare to high-quality specialty food. The variety is endless, and can fit any budget.
The last thing most people think about in this completely manmade desert city is nature. However, the area does offer some outstanding natural beauty as well. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Valley of Fire State Park are both nearby. In surrounding states, Death Valley in California is accessible as a day trip, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona can also be seen in a separate day (which involves crossing the Hoover Dam). Thus, the desert landscape offers its own natural beauty that is far different from much of the United States.
Las Vegas is strongly identified with casinos and gambling, but as these activities have become legal in other areas, Las Vegas has built a host of options for entertainment and enjoyment. This city will amaze anyone with its outrageously themed buildings and the incredible options available to visitors. A sightseer could spend a week in Las Vegas enjoying shows, food, and the spectacle of the casinos themselves without even betting a chip.
Regards, |
