My favorite place to take in some views is the iconic Bellagio.
There’s also free spectacle abound, especially in some of the large pubic areas in the casinos. For those who are looking for a more wallet-pleasing shopping experience, the epic Forum Shops at Caesars has just about every store imaginable, ranging from Gap and Express to Ferragamo and Marc Jacobs. It houses the largest Louis Vuitton in North America, and also includes Dolce and Gabbana Men’s, Fendi, Gucci, Paul Smith, Prada, and Valentino, amongst others. However, there are two shopping experiences that are not-to-miss: The Shops at Crystals, located smack in-between The Cosmopolitan and the gorgeous Aria casino, is an upscale center that is an architectural dream. Vegas is a shopper’s paradise: Everywhere you turn there are high-end and low-end malls, stores, and places to throw money. You’d be shocked at the kind of offers you get. Also, there’s a lot more to do than just gamble however, as I mentioned earlier, if you do gamble, make sure to sign up for a player’s card at the casino you are playing at. Much of the “kitsch” that litters the Strip is just that: not worth your time or money. The thing to remember is that you cannot do it all in one trip. I’ve been several times, and still get a little overwhelmed when I arrive. WHAT TO DO: There’s almost too much to take in if you’ve never been to Vegas. Plus, you get a stunning view of the casino and all the eye candy roaming the gaming floor. This three-story bar has a plethora of libations for what ails you-everything from classics to updated twists on new favorites. If the chili is freaking you out, you can wash it down with a blood orange Cosmopolitan.įor a drink, I love the Chandelier at the Cosmopolitan. The restaurant, located in the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, features some of the best pizza I’ve ever tasted, including a corn pie made with thin crust, creamy corn, fresh mozzarella, and chili slices. Otto, the brainchild of super chef Mario Batali, is also a fabulous place to dine under the faux Venice sky. And the food! The farrotto with morel mushrooms, lava beans, and pecorino tartufo just about made me melt, and don’t forget the amazing homemade breadbasket with whipped mascarpone lemon butter. Every detail, down to the iPad cocktail menu, is impeccable. The menu features many of Giada’s signature dishes from her television show and cookbooks. The first restaurant of Food Network star Giada DeLaurentiis, the space is an expansive circular dining room that overlooks the Strip. The newest crowning glory of the Vegas culinary scene, Giada’s, is an absolute must. For the same price, you can have a stellar, memorable dining experience. Do your homework before going don’t get stuck at some mediocre casino steak house or buffet. There are so many choices it can get overwhelming. WHERE TO EAT: Vegas is seriously a culinary capital and such a foodie destination.
If you’re looking for something a little more quiet and intimate, the new Cromwell boutique hotel and casino, operated by Caesars Entertainment, is a sophisticated spot right in the heart of the Strip that features some of the best views of Vegas, plus one of the most glorious restaurants in Sin City- Giada’s (again, more on that momentarily.) Case in point: I got my last room for free. Also, sign up for a player’s card: Even if you put a few dollars in the slot machines, you’ll start getting offers. My mini-suite had a Japanese soaking tub that overlooked the mountains. This sleek, sexy, and sophisticated hotel is part of the relatively new City Center on the Strip and includes some of the best pools, dining, and bars in the city, including a three-floor chandelier that transforms into a multi-level drinking oasis at night (more on that in a bit.) Even the most basic rooms are generously sized and include see-through shower stalls where you can watch your roommates clean while you nap in bed. You’ll be tempted with low rates, but you truly get what you pay for. WHERE TO STAY: Hands down: stay on the Strip. It is totally doable to do a “quickie” (three days, two nights) Vegas trip from Philly-flights are relatively affordable, and if you catch a morning non-stop flight, you’ll end up having almost the entire first day to explore (Vegas is three hours behind us.) If you’re feeling lucky, here are some of my suggestions to enjoy a fun, fast, and furious Vegas weekend.