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When Vegas comes to mind it seems to always convey some sort of Hangover moment – I mean if not, why on earth did the saying “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” get coined? But I’m happy to report that Las Vegas isn’t just an adult playground for bachelors and bachelorettes! The entertainment capital of the world CAN actually be a fantastic destination for couples and even families if done right! We recently ventured on a 2 day Las Vegas itinerary and it was one of the best weekend getaways ever!
From world class performances to over the top dining experiences, our 2 days in Las Vegas encompassed some of the finest affordable luxury I could have ever imagined. Pampered by pristine hospitality, our Las Vegas itinerary proved that Sin City can indeed be classy.
Don’t get me wrong… if it’s your first time in Las Vegas you still have to remember it is after all one of the quirkiest cities in the world. You WILL probably see half-naked show girls here and there or hordes of bachelors cruising the casinos… but that’s just part of the package deal of visiting such a fun and vibrant city! You can still have a great time without gambling or drinking ‘til you drop.
With dozens of romantic things to do in Las Vegas for couples, this itinerary will ensure you have a weekend in Vegas to remember!
So before getting to the actual itinerary, a lot of you might be wondering about costs. I mean it’s great that Las Vegas can be classy, but won’t that break the bank? In the next section I cover all you need to know to plan an affordable but sophisticated 2 days in Las Vegas.
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Las Vegas on a Budget
So, can Las Vegas be done on a budget? The answer is ABSOLUTELY. You don’t necessarily have to stay in the nicest hotels in order to experience what they have to offer! All restaurants, shops, spas, casinos, theaters, and clubs are open to anyone— non-guests included! We in fact spent the majority of our time at The Bellagio (which for now we can only afford in our dreams), but we actually stayed overnight at New York New York.
Here are some pointers and tips on how to save money in Vegas:
Check out all the free things to do in Las Vegas
There are so many free things to do in Las Vegas it’s not even funny! For example, the incredible Bellagio Fountain Show and Botanical Gardens, or the Lake of Dreams show at the Wynn are both COMPLETELY FREE.
Consider purchasing Last-Minute Tickets
You will find dozens of booths around the strip offering insanely discounted show tickets (I’m talking up to 50% off!)
Consider Early Bird Specials & Dinners
Many resorts and restaurants offer lower-priced menus to early risers or for pre-show and post-show dining.
Consider Purchasing All-Inclusive Passes
There are many types of passes that offer dozens of experiences and activities for a fixed price. Instead of buying individual tickets, save up to 50% with a city pass. You can choose how many attractions to get included or how many days to get the pass for.
Go midweek, not during the weekend or holidays
Not only are there many more free things to do in Las Vegas during the week, but hotel and show prices drop significantly – I mean I’m talking about +50% getting knocked off the price!!!
Consider a cheaper hotel on the strip such as the New York New York or book a hotel downtown.
Although you won’t have the luxury of the Venetian or Caesar’s Palace, remember you can still experience all that anyway. Consider your accommodation solely where you will be sleeping.
Go during shoulder season avoiding the Summer, Spring Break, and NYE
This will drop not only the price tag but the number of crowds!
Budget Breakdown – 2 Days in Vegas
If traveling during the weekday you can easily spend less than 200$ a day per person INCLUDING accommodation!
**NOTE! We didn’t really try to budget with exception of accommodation and flights and sort of splurged on activities and food- if you plan accordingly you can expect to spend LESS than we did!**
COSTS FOR 2 days in Las Vegas for 2 people (we stayed 2 full days so 3 nights)
Accommodation: 90 x 3 days = 270
Shows & Entertainment: 175 x 2 ppl = 350
Food: 200 x 2ppl = 400
Uber: 50
Flights (we flew in from LAX): 86 x 2 = 172
Total: 1,242 per couple / 621 per person for 2 days & 3 nights
If you take away the third night, we spent $288 per person per day. If you budget food and shows and are traveling midweek, you can definitely bring this down to $200!
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
When staying in Vegas there are two options when it comes to accommodation: staying on the Strip or staying Downtown. I think that staying on the Strip is a better option if you’re constrained with time (although it is more expensive than staying downtown).
With only 2 days in Las Vegas, you really don’t want to be worrying about transportation. Plus, I think it’s more of an iconic experience to just step out of your hotel and be right smack in the middle of the Strip!
Hotels on the Las Vegas Strip
There are dozens of hotels on the Las Vegas Strip to choose from. Your choice will depend on your budget and on what type of mood you’re going for. Also, make sure to check the hotel address as the Strip only runs on a certain section of Las Vegas Blvd; from Sunset Road to East Sahara Avenue!
Here are a few hotel examples according to budget:
BUDGET ($): Luxor, Ex Calibur (I don’t recommend the Stratosphere since it’s far on one end of the Strip and Circus Circus in my opinion is pretty run down).
BUDGET PLUS ($$): New York New York, Tropicana, Treasure Island, MGM Grand
SAVE ON YOUR HOTEL COSTS! Remember that you can still have a luxurious experience in Las Vegas without actually staying in a luxury hotel! All hotel activities, restaurants, spas and theaters are open to NON-GUESTS. New York New York is a great hotel to stay at that is both affordable and nice!
MID-RANGE ($$$): Paris, Caesar’s Palace
LUXURY ($$$$): The Venetian, The Bellagio, Aria Resort & Casino, Wynn
If instead you have your heart set on really saving money than you can actually find quite nice hotels for a great price in downtown Las Vegas!
So, without further ado, let’s get into this 2 day Las Vegas itinerary!
2 days in Las Vegas Itinerary Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the activities by day. For specific suggestions on restaurants, shows, cocktail bars, pool parties, etc., scroll down to the detailed itinerary.
Day 1
- Morning & Afternoon: Hotel hop and explore the Las Vegas Strip attractions
- Pre-Evening: Wind down with a drink at one of the famous cocktail bars in Las Vegas
- Evening: Have a romantic dinner in one of Las Vegas’ renowned restaurants
- Night: Go see a Las Vegas Show
Day 2
- Morning: Indulge in an All-You-Can-Eat Vegas Buffet Brunch
- Afternoon: Go to a Las Vegas Pool Party
- Pre-Evening: Have a Pamper Session and get a blow-out at Dry Bar
- Evening: Have drinks aboard the Las Vegas High Roller Observation Wheel
- Night: Have a tasteful casino night gambling
Day 3
- Morning: Check out
- Afternoon: Optional daytrip or visit to downtown Las Vegas
- Evening: Head home
Las Vegas Itinerary: 2 Days in Sin City
Day 1 Las Vegas Itinerary
On your first day in city, hit the ground running by touring all the top sights of the Las Vegas Strip.
To get to do as many activities as you can you are going to want to get an early start to the day!
Go Hotel Hopping and Explore the Las Vegas Strip
So, first thing’s first is immediately hitting the Strip for some hotel hopping. Hotel-hopping?? Yesssss, and it’s the best part of going to Vegas. Each hotel brings you to a different part of the world!
From laid-back New York New York, to the Greek temples at Caesar’s Palace, you get to experience so many different vibes and cultures in one city!
I highly suggest exploring them all, you might just never know what you’ll run into and what might become your favorite. I mean who knew the Bellagio would become our favorite??
Here are some of the best things to do on the Las Vegas strip…
Romantic things to do in Las Vegas on the Strip
Who said Las Vegas can’t be romantic? If done right, Las Vegas is actually a great couple’s destination! Here are some of the best romantic activities in Las Vegas you can do while hotel-hopping…
Ride a Gondola at the Venetian Hotel
As cheesy and quiche as it may sound it is actually quite extraordinary to see how the Venetian Resort has captured and embraced the Italian and more specifically, the Venetian vibe. (I actually have lived in Venice Italy where my mom is from so you can trust me!)
You can opt for either an indoor or outdoor ride (although the indoors is a lot more characteristic in my opinion). Most gondoliers (although, *sigh*, unfortunately not all) will sing a tune as they row you around the tiny canals. If you’re celebrating an anniversary in Las Vegas this is one of the most romantic things to do in the city.
If you’re really interested in hearing the gondoliers sing, make sure you don’t miss their unison singing at 9:50AM and 4:20PM every day along the Grand Canal Shoppes!
DETAILS & PRICES | Fees for gondola rides differ depending on if you purchase a standard shared 4-person ride or a private couple gondola (which is about 4 times the price). Total ride time is 10 minutes.
Streetmosphere at the Grand Canal Shoppes
While you’re at the Venetian make sure you also head over to St. Mark’s Square to catch the lively Italian opera and dance performances. The costumes are great and shows are completely free and last about 15 minutes each!
Visiting the Venetian, although not the actual Italian Venice, still makes for a great experience and prepares you for when you finally book that ticket to Italy!
Watch the Bellagio Water Show
You might be thinking ‘what is so great about a fountain show’? To be honest, we also were very skeptical. Well, I’m here to report that the hype is 200% justified! As the music started and the tiny trickles of water evolved into towering cascades, we were left completely stupefied.
To put things into perspective, we proceeded to see the show another 4 times in the span of two days – each time from a different viewpoint (seeing them from the Eiffel Tower Restaurant was a dream!). We preferred seeing the show at nighttime as not only did it make for a more romantic experience, but the lights and choreography were much more evident when the sun had gone down.
With over 1000 jets reaching a height of 450 feet and dancing in unison to the choreographed lights and melodies this is a definite must do when in Vegas.
WATER SHOW TIMES |The fountain show repeats every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes in the evening. For detailed hours check their website here.
Don’t forget to also venture inside the hotel and walk through the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – you’ll find an incredibly colorful exhibition of architectural elements made from flowers! The display changes seasonally so check their website for their current display.
Free Line Dancing Lessons at Treasure Island
If you want to try something out of the ordinary with your partner (or even just yourself!), the free weekday line dancing lessons at Gilley’s Dance Hall are a real hoedown throwdown! Kick on your coyboy boots and enjoy your time at the saloon!
See the Lake of Dreams Show at Wynn Las Vegas
Of all the hotels we visited while in Las Vegas, Wynn stole the prize for the most affluent. The meticulous care of every little corner and the up-scale design alone made this hotel a true treat for the eyes.
At the Lake of Dreams, you can catch the Wynn’s new multimedia show every 30 minutes after sunset. With sensational design and mind-blowing effects, you’ll find a towering waterfall, animatronics choreographed to aquatic effects. And get this, it is completely free! If you want to add in a cocktail, you can reserve your spot at the Lakeside Patio.
Fun things to do in Las Vegas on the Strip
When in Vegas there are also all sorts of activities that you can do to get your adrenaline pumping! Here are some of the coolest things to do…
Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
A great activity also for families, visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas can be quite fun. With exhibits featuring many toothy animals such as crocodiles and piranhas, and a huge shark tunnel, visiting this aquarium is a really cool experience.
You can even try your hand at petting the sting rays and little sharks at the touch pool or completely immerse yourself in a VR cage-diving experience!
DETAILS & PRICES | Last Admission at 5:00 PM. Entry fee to the Shark Reef Aquarium varies. Discounted for senior citizens and even free for children depending on their age. To check their visiting hours please visit their website for updated hours.
Get your Adrenaline Pumping at the Thrill Rides at the STRAT
These rides are NOT for the faint of heart. Whether you are dangling above the Las Vegas strip at 800+ feet or shooting through the sky, these rides will definitely get your heart racing. You can get single ride tickets or combined tickets.
Ride the Big Apple Coaster at the New York New York Hotel
If you’re looking to get a further rush you can always book a ticket to the Big Apple Coaster. With 200ft drops and speeds at 70mph you are bound to have fun!
Snatch a Photo at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
If you have extra time left over in the afternoon it can be fun to head over to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign at the south extreme of the Strip. Sometimes the line to get a picture can be a bit long but I have to say it’s a great photo souvenir to have to remind you of Las Vegas. Head over in the early morning for no crowds.
After an entire day of hotel-hopping and experiencing all of the best attractions the city has to offer, start your evening by winding down with a drink at some of the best cocktail bars in Las Vegas!
Have Drinks at a Fancy Cocktail Bar
So, half the experience of cocktail hour is in the ambience- am I right? And when in Vegas you just have to dress up, when else are you going to wear that sequined dress or that tailored two-pieced suit?
The following lounge bars were the perfect fancy setting to go along with my idea of glitz and glam…. And don’t worry, they all have awarded mixologists!
The Chandelier – The Cosmopolitan Hotel
Cocktail Attire
The most unique cocktail bar in Las Vegas, Chandelier bar is literally a three-story chandelier (each floor has a different vibe and so different menu!). As you sip at your Moscow Mule you are bathed with the reflections of the hundreds of hanging crystals. It is such a regal experience. Even if you don’t drink just go and order anything- I promise you won’t regret it. Special toasts are made here.
Skybar – Waldorf Astoria
Cocktail Attire
If you want drinks and a view, Skybar lounge on the 23rd floor will give you just that. Get a beautiful night view of Vegas away from the crowds and enjoy a nice romantic aperitif hour.
Mama Rabbit – Park MGM
Casual
If you are looking to have a more laid-back happy hour type of experience head to quirky Mama Rabbit. This Mexican themed lounge is bursting with colors and has all the tequila and mezcal you could hope for. If margaritas and live entertainment are your thing, this is your spot!
Splurge on a Romantic Dinner in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is in the top 5 cities worldwide for number of critically acclaimed fine-dining restaurants. It would be such a waste to visit Sin City and not get a chance to indulge just once in one of these award-winning restaurants. And don’t fret, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to eat in one of these restaurants!
Depending on the cuisine and on the level of fanciness there are numerous choices. We loved our time at the Rose Rabbit Lie with live entertainment but unfortunately the restaurant has permanently closed.
Here is a brief list of the top restaurants
The Eiffel Tower Restaurant
French Cuisine | $$$ | Cocktail Attire (Paris Hotel)
Most Romantic Restaurant in Las Vegas. With a spectacular view of the Bellagio fountains, this restaurant is a definite showstopper when it comes to fine dining and views. Voted one of the most romantic restaurants in the United States by USA Today the Eiffel Tower Restaurant is the perfect choice for an anniversary dinner or marriage proposal.
Mott 32
Chinese Cuisine | $$$$ | Cocktail Attire (The Palazzo at The Venetian)
Asian Fine Dining. Extremely elegant, this contemporary Chinese restaurant brings it to the next level! With jaw-dropping design and award-winning food, Mott 32 cannot be missed!
Lago
Italian Cuisine | $$$$ | Smart Casual (The Bellagio)
Waterfront Restaurant. If you are interested in views, grab a seat at this Italian restaurant right on the waterfront of the Lake Bellagio. Aside from Lago’s bold flavors, the enchanting Bellagio fountain show is right at your fingertips every 15 minutes. (Make sure you ask for outdoor seating!)
Bavette’s Steakhouse and Bar
Steak | $$$ | Smart Casual (The Park MGM)
The Best Steak in Las Vegas. Similar to a speak-easy lounge this intimate restaurant boasts some of the most mouth-watering steak in the city. Reminiscent of ‘la belle epoque,’ Bavette’s has a lot of character!
Go to a Las Vegas Show
To top off your dinner, head to an incredible Las Vegas show. And when I say incredible, I don’t use that word lightly. As an avid critic of the performing arts, I have seen it all… from New York Broadway to London theater. I have even seen a handful of Cirque du Soleil performances around the globe. Believe me when I say that nothing had ever come even remotely close to the production I saw in Vegas.
On different trips to Las Vegas, I have managed to see several Cirque du Soleil shows: One (Michael Jackson), Ka, and Mystère. If I had to recommend one of these shows I would hands down recommend Mystère at Treasure Island.
Unfortunately pictures are not allowed inside the theater but trust me when I tell you that the precision, the acrobatics, the costumes, the set design, the choreography… literally everything of the Mystère production was STATE OF THE ART. Plus, the theater at Treasure Island is a bit smaller in comparison to other resort theaters so you are closer to the stage. I was like the tenth row and the acrobats were literally flying on top of me!
CHECK OUT MYSTÈRE TICKET PRICES HERE
Not into Cirque du Soleil? No problem. There are dozens of other fantastic shows.
If the performing arts is not your thing, don’t sweat it! There are loads of concerts daily, anywhere from blues/jazz to pop. Many top selling recording artists have had Las Vegas residencies over the years, from Jennifer Lopez to Bruno Mars to Britney Spears!
The Best Vegas Shows for Couples
If you want to try something different with your partner, there are a number of spicier shows to see in Las Vegas. It can get risqué and raunchy or remain playfully soft with a Burlesque show. Check out the following shows that are great for couples:
- Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood
- Fantasy at Luxor
- X Country at Harrah’s
- X Burlesque at Flamingo
- Rouge at the STRAT
Day 2 Las Vegas Itinerary
On the second day of your two days in Vegas, sit back and relax! Yesterday was a packed day with a lot of walking. Today, indulge in great food and spoil yourself with pool-side cocktails and pristine hospitality.
Indulge in an All You Can Eat Vegas Buffet Brunch
To make up for all the walking yesterday, start your day by stuffing your face at one of Las Vegas’s famous buffet brunches!
But what’s so special about a buffet brunch? Have you ever heard of a place that serves lobster and crab legs for brunch?? Yes, that’s right- because Las Vegas is extravagant even during brunch time. And if you’re skeptical of forking over that much money for a brunch, if you plan it right you can have your buffet cover all 3 meals for the day lol. We bought a ticket that allowed us to stay 3 hours, so we took our time and paced ourselves in between “sittings.”
Bacchanal
Caesar’s Palace | $$$$
My theory is that if you’re going to go big, you might as well go ALL OUT. For this reason we decided to brunch at the biggest and of course most expensive buffet in the city, Bacchanal at Caesars Palace. (sorry bank account!)
There are 9 kitchens serving the buffet area with cuisines ranging from seafood, to BBQ & brisket, to sushi, to Mexican. It takes a whopping 3 minutes to walk through the entire buffet! When I say there is a mountain of food, I MEEEEAN it! And don’t forget desserts- there is an entire section dedicated to sweets, ice-cream and crepes.
The cost is about $65 per person, the priciest in Las Vegas. There is usually also a pretty nasty line to get in. Thankfully when we went, we were blessed by the heavens with NO WAIT on a Sunday! Just in case, to avoid a line, make sure you’re one of the first people there.
Other buffets we would like to try next time:
Wicked Spoon
The Cosmopolitan | $$$
This buffet has risen to the top just recently because of the quality of food it serves at such reasonable prices. There is always an insane line to get into Wicked Spoon but now that we’ve had a taste in Vegas buffets, we will definitely be back to try it, even if there is a line! Price is about $40 per person.
The Buffet
Wynn | $$$
They say that this is not only the most elaborately decorated buffet in Vegas (even the food is impeccably and beautifully presented), but that this is the go-to brunch spot for any vegans and/or vegetarians. Price at the Wynn Buffet is about $45 per person.
Go to a Las Vegas Pool Party
Besides Dubai, I really think that Las Vegas is the only other place on the planet with so many world-renowned DJs playing at pool parties with swim up bars. Here are some of the best pool parties in Las Vegas:
Daylight Beach Club
Mandalay Bay
Probably the largest pool complex in Las Vegas, Daylight not only offers plenty of pools and different DJs, but it also has its own beach! That’s right, complete with sand and beach volley courts!
Tao Beach Dayclub
The Venetian
Although quite small in size, word on the street is that Tao Beach Dayclub is the place to be for music. Don’t miss world-class spinners and special events and appearances daily, spring and summer.
NOTE ON CABANAS – Bear in mind that reserving a cabana usually comes with bottle service and a handful of other amenities. This is usually EXPENSIVE. Make sure you know all the costs before reserving!
Marquee Dayclub
The Cosmopolitan
If you prefer the louder and crazier parties, the Marquee Dayclub hosts a great pool party and is the only hotel in Vegas to have a three-story pool-side loft. Yes… three stories.
Chelsea Pool
The Cosmopolitan
Although not an actual pool party, the Chelsea Pool is on the 14th floor of the Cosmopolitan and as such, has great views and is tucked away from all the hustle and bustle of the strip. It has a great lounge vibe and is rather soothing.
Pamper Yourself at the Las Vegas Dry Bar
Before heading out for happy hour drinks, help yourself get ready with a style stop at Dry Bar. The salon has a DJ spinning and open bar available as you sit back and relax. And get this… Prices for hair stylings are super affordable with dry-styles running as low as just $25! With a fresh style I felt so glammed up for the night ahead!
Ride the Las Vegas High Roller Observation Wheel at Happy Hour
Get the best city view of Las Vegas atop the highest roller observation wheel in the world. By far one of the most romantic things to do in Las Vegas for couples, the full ride around takes 30 minutes and reaches a whopping height of 550 feet.
To complete your ride, consider purchasing a happy half hour ticket and complete the 360 revolution with a drink in hand. The cabin you will board in this case is complete with open bar. I recommend going at night as the lights are rather spectacular, and it really makes for a romantic moment.
Have a Classy Gambling Night at the Las Vegas Casinos
Ugh… I know! Gambling… that is such a trashy cliché when it comes to Las Vegas. But trust me when I say that as NON-GAMBLERS, we found the whole atmosphere at the Bellagio Casino to be quite captivating.
Walking through the high-roller sections was just so cool- I mean when are you ever going to see wads of 50K cash casually being strewn about? Hmm, I would dare to say ‘Never!’
We opted for the Bellagio and decided to try a poker table; nothing big (small-big blind was 1-3, meaning the forced bets were never over 3 dollars). The whole experience, at least for us was so out of the ordinary that just being there made it special. I mean drinks while you gamble are complimentary, and you can even get a head & shoulder massage on the house… I mean, what??! Were we in the movie Molly Bloom?
We only stayed an hour or so and never bet above a dollar. We left quite victorious and with a smile on our face that we couldn’t believe. As long as you bet smart, the whole experience can actually be quite enthralling. Scope out your favorite hotel or casino game and try your luck – you might just be pleasantly surprised.
Visiting Downtown on your 2-day Las Vegas Itinerary
So, we’ve gotten to check-out day and it’s almost time to say goodbye to Las Vegas. But if you have some time before flying out you can add these 3 convenient stops in downtown Las Vegas. They are all close together, so you don’t have to worry about moving around.
Fremont Street
If you’re a vintage fanatic, explore Las Vegas’ birthplace and get a chance to walk around the historical 6 blocks that made Sin City what it is today. A pedestrian only area, this lively and vibrant street features street entertainment 24/7 and some of the largest visual displays worldwide.
Visit a Museum
There are two museums you can easily visit together while you’re in downtown Vegas.
Neon Museum
Just a 10-minute walk from Fremont Street get a chance to “meet” Vegas’ most iconic artwork by visiting the Neon Museum. With over 250 retired neon signs, this fun family-friendly activity gives you the chance to tour the numerous installations. Go on a self-guided tour of the Boneyard or opt for a show ticket that includes an audiovisual experience! If you are staying until the evening, heading here when the daylight starts to dim is ideal as the illuminated neon signs really pop!
Mob Museum
If you’re a fan of mobster movies you might really enjoy a visit at the Mob Museum. Learn the history of organized crime in the country and what came to be in Sin City itself. If you’re pulled to the 1920s and times of Prohibition, there is a great experience in the Speakeasy and Distillery Underground.
Day Trips from Las Vegas
Most people like to add a couple of excursions while visiting Las Vegas. It’s too bad that many decide to venture to parks as far away as 4 hours on a day trip. That makes no sense! You’ll basically be in the car the entire time and you won’t even brush the surface of the place you’re visiting.
For a daytrip, these are my recommendations of the best places you can feasibly and comfortably visit or do on a daytrip:
Valley of Fire State Park
Just a mere hour away northeast of Las Vegas you can reach one of the most beautiful state parks in the country. Similar to The Wave in Arizona (which you can only visit by winning a lottery ticket by the way), the fiery candy-like swirls that you will find on the Wave hike in the Valley of Fire (yes, same name!) make for a breathtaking scenery. And guess what?! No permit or lottery ticket needed, just a mere $15 entrance fee!
There are several trails that you can venture on at the Valley of Fire and the best part is that they are all easy to hike! I recommend spending a full day if you plan on hiking around the state park.
If you are not really comfortable hiking on your own, there are plenty of guided hiking tours in the area!
Red Rock Canyon
If you have less than a half-day at your disposal, Red Rock Canyon is a great alternative to the Valley of Fire. Just 30 minutes east of Las Vegas, this park is full of hiking trails. Or again, if you’re super pressed for time just driving the 13-mile scenic loop is an experience with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Go on an ATV Scenic Tour in the Desert
If you’re wanting to squeeze in some adventure in your 2-day Las Vegas itinerary, there are a number of organized ATV tours in the area. Most tours include pick-up and drop-off to and from the Strip. From sandy dunes to spectacular desert views, you will have a blast zipping around thrilling trails. If you’re not afraid of a little dust this makes for one of the coolest things to do in Las Vegas for couples!
Before wrapping up this seemingly endless post, there are a couple other crucial things you should know when it comes to planning a trip to Las Vegas. Knowing which season to travel in or some practical information of getting around will not only save you a lot of money but time as well!
Best Time to Visit Las Vegas
Spring and Fall are definitely the best seasons to visit Sin City. Temperatures are mild and pleasant and there aren’t too many crowds yet. In fact, we went in November (so totally off-season) and we were in short sleeves! Just avoid Thanksgiving and especially Spring Break like the plague – prices soar and crowds are miserable!
WARNING ON POOL PARTIES! Bear in mind that most pools are closed off-season and pool parties only go from about April-October!
Winter is also a nice time to visit. A season packed with holiday parties and events this can be a fun time. Just avoid New Year’s as this is another extremely popular time for Las Vegas.
BEST | Spring |
SECOND | Fall |
THIRD | Winter |
WORST | Summer |
Summer for that matter is truly the time of year that you should absolutely avoid, at least if you’re traveling as a couple or as a family.
If you’re traveling as a girls or guys group and you’re going for the parties and insane nightlife than this is the best time. However, it gets miserably hot, incredibly overpriced and the pools get jam-packed. I went in July one year and although it was cool that Psy from Gangnam Style showed up I didn’t enjoy it as I truly felt claustrophobic in the pool.
Getting Around Las Vegas
Unless you are extending your 2 days in Vegas to explore other areas or are planning on adventuring on a self-drive day trip or two, there is really no need to rent a car.
If you’re staying on the Strip you can basically walk everywhere! When you have to get quickly from one end of the strip to the other (or when I was wearing my super schmancy heels) we would either Uber/Lyft/Taxi or ride the monorail. Keep in mind that the monorail does not run outside of the Strip if you’re staying downtown.
Another option for those of you who are opting to stay downtown is riding the Deuce Bus which operates 24/7 and gets you from Fremont all the way to the Southern strip.
UBER/LYFT/Taxi in Las Vegas: Note that in Las Vegas you can’t hail down a taxi or just grab an Uber. Most hotels have designated pick-up and drop off areas for ride hailing services. Follow the signs in the hotel lobbies to the specific points.
MONORAIL in Las Vegas: the monorail is a convenient train ride that runs every 4-8 minutes from 7AM to 3AM (hours depend on the day of the week). The route runs only on the Strip stretching from Sahara Las Vegas Station to MGM Grand Station.
GETTING FROM THE AIRPORT TO YOUR HOTEL: the most direct way to your hotel is hailing an UBER. However, ride-hailing options sometimes have excessive wait times. You can also opt for a shared shuttle although group shuttles do make multiple stops along the way.
Renting a Car in Las Vegas
If you will indeed be needing a car note that the rental car lot is not actually inside the Harry Reid International Airport. There is a free shuttle service that takes you to the rental lot that takes about 10 mins. In high season there can be an extensive line to get on the shuttle (which operates about every 15 minutes). Calculate a good half hour at least.
PARKING IN VEGAS: Note that most parking in Vegas is paid parking. There are a couple hotels that offer free parking even if you’re not a guest, however they fill up quite quickly. Another great option is the FREE VALET Service at the Shops at the Crystal
VALLET WORD OF CAUTION: Make sure you check your car for scratches and damage before and after valeting. Our car was heavily scratched after valeting one night however we didn’t notice until the next morning. As a result, the Parking Lot refused to recognize fault since we failed to communicate the damage immediately.
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations are definitely in order! I hope that amongst the thousands of words rambled you have managed to find something in this post to help inspire your 2 days in Las Vegas. As always, I welcome any comments or suggestions below – I love building on readers’ experience!
Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…
Viva Las Vegas!!!!
This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
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