Las Vegas often conjures up images of high-rolling gamblers and glitzy casinos but this fascinating city has an array of other attractions and activities that make it a holiday haven for both adults and children. Holidays in Las Vegas offer action packed adventure, breathtaking landscapes of natural beauty and numerous entertainment options for all the family to enjoy at this unique location.
Attractions
The Fremont Street Experience, located in downtown Las Vegas, epitomises the vivid, colourful spirit of the city. Nightly shows take place at the pedestrian mall, which showcase a staggering twelve million lights and 550 watts of sound.
This type of grand spectacle is commonplace throughout Sin City. The Bellagio Fountains, which have been critically acclaimed as one of the most complex choreographed water features in the world, are a visual treat with various genres of music synced with the flow of thousands of colourful fountains. The show takes place every 30 minutes during the evening.Â
Culture
Holidays in Las Vegas are brimming with opportunities to appreciate some culture. The Gallery of Fine Art at the Bellagio Hotel houses classic masterpieces, including some pieces by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and David Hockney. The hotel lobby, which acts a precursor to the popular galleries, is an exhibition hall in its own right, with delicate beautiful glass flowers that were hand blown by the legendary Dale Chihuly adorning the high-rise ceilings. Some breathtaking cityscapes are also in close proximity.
The Stratosphere Tower, located at the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino, allows visitors to appreciate the majestic Vegas strip and surrounding area from the highest freestanding observation platform in the country. Those who wish to travel a bit further afield can visit the very impressive Hoover Dam. This National Historic Landmark is an acclaimed feat of engineering that stands 750 feet above the Colorado River, situated between Nevada and neighbouring Arizona.
Activities
Thrill-seekers are well catered for in Las Vegas. Vegas Indoor Skydiving, located at the heart of the strip, is one of the most popular destinations. Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks and Ozzy Osbourne are among those who have donned flight suits, helmets and goggles to experience the joy of diving in the unique tunnel that generates wind speeds of up to 120mph.
Driving enthusiasts must not pass up the opportunity of visiting the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, which is home to the Exotics Racing School. Professional lecturers divulge a range of driving secrets before allowing you to ride in a range-topping Ferrari, Porsche or Lamborghini for a five-lap run of the circuit. Budget conscious travellers may prefer a ride on the roller coaster at the New York Hotel and Casino, which features a 180-degree turn and a near 150-feet drop — exhilarating!Â
Family fun
Holidays in Las Vegas are very family-friendly with the Ethel M Chocolate Factory being a firm favourite with children. This features a winding collection of conveyor belts, pipes and tanks holding gallons of chocolate. Over 700,000 individuals visit the location each year.
Samples are also in supply at the Ethel’s Chocolate Lounge, where wonderful chocolate concoctions are produced and readily devoured. Gaming interests are catered for at the Pinball Hall of Fame. This special museum is a shrine to scores of classic amusement machines and currently houses 100 playable tables across 10,000 square feet of floor space. Admission is free and the kids are able to continue flipping until late in the evening on a daily basis.
About the author
Anna Dewinter is a freelance writer who loves travelling and meeting new people.