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Bright Lights, Big Adventures
Larger than life (and much more exciting), Las Vegas defies all odds by offering visitors every
kind of travel experience imaginable. The city’s ultra-luxurious resorts, acclaimed restaurants,
and legendary entertainment venues are playgrounds for the rich, famous, and notorious.
But it’s the travel glitterati who know that this desert oasis is also a wonderful place to indulge
their passion for culture, family, and the great outdoors. From dawn to dusk and dusk to dawn,
the city is alive with activity and a blissful array of unexpected diversions. You’ll feel lucky
each time you discover a different side of Las Vegas. >>
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Art of the City
Las Vegas is a feast of architectural curiosities, vintage neon,
modern design, and street theater. Simply walking the Strip is
an arty experience, though you’ll also want to explore some
of the city’s interesting museums and galleries.
Delve into Las Vegas’ quirky history at the Liberace
Museum, which pays homage to the late, great showman
and displays his costumes and pianos, including a rhinestoneencrusted Baldwin grand. The Neon Museum celebrates
the city’s iconic signs, and while the facility is a work in
progress, you can take a walking tour along Fremont Street
to view restored gems like the 1966 Aladdin’s Lamp from
the Aladdin Hotel.
For culture with an international flair, visit the Guggenheim
Hermitage Museum in The Venetian, where masterworks from
New York’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the State
Hermitage Museum of St. Petersburg, Russia, are displayed
in special exhibits. American Modernism is the focus of an
engaging show at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (through
October 15, 2008), which features works by 20th-century
greats like Georgia O’Keeffe.
The Las Vegas Strip.
Right: Exterior of the Rio.
Contemporary artists strut their stuff during First Friday
celebrations, a once-a-month art event in Las Vegas’ historic
downtown neighborhood. Galleries, shops, and restaurants
welcome visitors as street performers add a festive ambiance.
Beyond the Neon
While Las Vegas is renowned for its man-made wonders, the
great outdoors is equally enthralling. From desert terrain to
deep canyons to resplendent lakes, the region is a haven for
nature lovers.
Nearby Mt. Charleston (35 miles) is part of the HumboldtToiyabe National Forest and is a splendid spot to hike, camp, ski,
and go birding. Look for wild horses, burros, and hummingbirds
while taking in the panoramic views. Even closer to the city
(13.2 miles) is Red Rock Canyon with its breathtaking, otherworldly sandstone formations. Try the 13-mile scenic drive or
get your adrenaline pumping on a rock-climbing excursion along
one of the designated and rated routes.
To experience the mesmerizing desert up close, travel a
little farther (60 miles) to the Mojave National Preserve, a 1.6
million-acre park that’s home to sweeping sand dunes,
twisting Joshua trees, and mesas of spring wildflowers
(when there’s adequate rain). Death Valley National Park
(135 miles), another desert wonder, is the lowest point
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From left: Lake Mead;
contortionists from
Cirque du Soleil.
in the Western hemisphere and one of the hottest places on
earth, yet it boasts more than 1,000 plant species, about 50 of
which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The eerily
beautiful landscape and storied Scotty’s Castle, which was
named for a colorful turn-of-the-20th-century prospector,
attract visitors all year long.
For a refreshing alternative to the desert heat, head for Lake
Mead National Recreation Area (25 miles) to enjoy water sports
like boating, kayaking, and even scuba diving.
open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment venue inspired by
the architecture of the world’s great cities.
Foodies will revel in the spate of new restaurants, from
cozy Tuscan trattoria AGO at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
to Wolfgang Puck’s chic steakhouse CUT and New York City’s
Mexican favorite Dos Caminos at The Palazzo to the hip and
casual BLT Burger, opening this summer at Mirage.
FAMILY PLAY
WHAT’S HOT NOW
In Las Vegas, everything new is new again. The city is in a constant state of motion, revamping, reinventing, and reimagining
its myriad offerings for a growing audience of devoted, repeat
visitors who know there’s no better place to play.
Since the Rat Pack and Elvis first came on the scene,
Las Vegas has been the entertainment capital of the universe.
Great talent continues to shine in such shows as Bette Midler,
The Showgirl Must Go On at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace,
a fabulously funny variety show from the incomparable
performer. The Tony Award-winning Jersey Boys, which follows
the musical journey of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, takes
the stage at The Palazzo, a new high-end luxury resort. Another
Broadway hit, Monty Python’s Spamalot, has been pleasing
crowds at Wynn Las Vegas since last year. Also look for Cher at
The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, a guaranteed tour de force
from the legendary singer; and starting this summer, a thrilling
new take on the traditional magic show from Cirque du Soleil
and illusionist Criss Angel at Luxor.
On the retail front, The Shoppes at The Palazzo, anchored by
Barneys New York and featuring a wealth of luxury brands new
to the Las Vegas market, opened with great fanfare this January.
Town Square Las Vegas, which debuted last November, is an
Yes, Las Vegas is ideal for families, if only to frolic in one
of the awe-inspiring resort pools like Mandalay Bay’s
tropical waterscape complete with wave machine and lazy
river. For more heart-pounding fun, sample the thrill rides
at Stratosphere Las Vegas, including Insanity, The Ride,
which dangles passengers from a tower high above the
city. You’re guaranteed to get a rush on The Roller Coaster
(pictured below) at New York-New York as you twist and
turn past New York City landmark replicas in a taxi-cab car
or at the Sahara’s Speed-The Ride, which goes from 35 mph
to 70 mph in just two seconds. For more sedate adventures, rub elbows with celebrities and enjoy great photo
ops at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas,
the world-famous wax museum in
The Venetian. Then see the big cats
at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden
& Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage,
where you can also be a trainer for
a day and learn how to interact with
friendly dolphins.
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LUXE LODG IN GS
With architecture that amazes, amenities that astound, and luxury that knows no bounds,
Las Vegas resorts and hotels are the envy of the world. Whatever your taste, whatever your
style, you’ll find a profusion of choices. Here are a few favorites:
From left:
MGM Grand;
dining at Nobhill,
MGM Grand.
MGM Grand: Maximum Vegas
Everything is grander at MGM Grand (www.mgmgrand.
com), a luxury resort that gives new meaning to the term
“star treatment.” Begin your journey at the resort’s convenient
satellite registration center in Las Vegas McCarran International
Airport and experience the over-the-top service that has
become an MGM Grand hallmark. You’ll then be whisked away
to the property, which is renowned for its glamorous rooms
and suites, including the spectacular SKYLOFTS Penthouse
Suites, two-story units featuring floor-to-ceiling windows,
chic décor, and 24-hour personal butler service. Tear yourself
away from the view to indulge in MGM Grand’s fine restaurants such as Joël Robuchon, the “Chef of the Century’s” first
French restaurant in the U.S., Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak, and
Michael Mina’s Nobhill, featuring sumptuous organic fare from
the San Francisco Bay area. Entertainment is also grand, from
the awe-inspiring KÀ by Cirque du Soleil to the MGM Grand’s
Left to right: Caesars Palace;
the pool at Caesars; shopping
at The Forum, Caesars.
Crazy Horse Paris, a sensual production straight from the famed
cabaret in Paris, to popular night clubs Tabú Ultra Lounge and
Studio 54, a fresh take on the iconic 1970s original.
Caesars Palace: Roman Splendor
Caesars Palace (www.caesarspalace.com) brings out the
king and queen in all of us—the part of our psyche that loves to
be pampered and indulged. The opulent lobby, oversized guest
rooms, and breathtaking 4.5-acre Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis,
which is accented by fountains and statues, excite the senses
at every turn. And the restaurants at Caesars Palace delight the
palate, including Restaurant Guy Savoy from the revered French
master; Bradley Ogden, the first namesake establishment from
the acclaimed chef who reinvents classic American cuisine; and
Payard Pâtisserie & Bistro, a new offering featuring an all-dessert
tasting menu. Caesars Palace has hosted the world’s greatest
entertainers, and in addition to headliners Bette Midler and Cher
(see What’s Hot Now), guests revel in the musical musings of
Elton John and the Red Piano. For relaxation, visit Qua Baths &
Spa, inspired by the baths of ancient Rome, and the recently
opened Color – A Salon by Michael Boychuck, the famed
celebrity colorist, where you can sip champagne or hot tea
while enjoying a full menu of salon services.
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Clockwise from left: Chairman
Suite, Bellagio; Langoustines
with Cranberry at Le Cirque,
Bellagio; exterior of Bellagio;
“O” Waterhorses, Cirque du Soleil.
Bellagio: The Art of Living Well
Like a grand estate tucked away in the Tuscan hills, Bellagio
(www.bellagio.com) is elegant, exquisite, and, best of all,
incredibly unpretentious. This welcoming retreat has all of
the amenities of Europe’s finest hotels: luxurious furnishings,
unforgettable food, beautiful gardens, and dancing fountains.
The service is impeccable, whether you’re relaxing in a pool
cabana amid Italian cypress and olive trees, meandering
through the upscale shops of Via Bellagio, or retreating to your
guest room or suite with views of the resort’s lake, the city
skyline, and surrounding mountains. Dining is also an art with
restaurants like Picasso, where you’ll savor Chef Julian Serrano’s
acclaimed Mediterranean specialties while gazing upon
original works of Pablo Picasso. This summer, Yellowtail
Sushi Restaurant & Bar, a new Japanese treat from awardwinning chef Akira Back, will join Bellagio favorites Le Cirque,
MICHAEL MINA, and fine pastry shop Philippe Pâtisserie,
to name a few.
“O” at the Bellagio: Simply Spectacular
Adding to Bellagio’s allure is Cirque du Soleil’s aquatic
masterpiece, “O” (www.cirquedusoleil.com or www.
bellagio.com), performed Wednesday through Sunday at
the resort in a custom-designed theater featuring a 1.5 milliongallon pool. Water is the inspiration and a magical instrument
that is brilliantly composed into this symphony of drama and
spectacle. Franco Dragone, writer and director of the show,
welcomes guests to “a place where all the world is water
and the stage is all the world,” and creates a completely
mesmerizing experience. You’ll be awestruck as acrobats,
synchronized swimmers, and divers, some of whom are
Olympians, celebrate the infinite wonders of theater—from
street shows to opera—while performing in the water and
soaring above it. The theater itself is a striking interpretation
of one of Europe’s great opera houses. And in the newly
redesigned “O” lobby, guests will enjoy a different kind of
artistry while viewing the masterpieces of sculptor Richard
MacDonald (www.theartofrichardmacdonald.com), which
are also available for purchase. His impressive bronze works
immortalize the passion and power of dancers and acrobats,
whom he captures in moments of graceful athleticism. To
reserve tickets for “O,” call 1-888-488-7111.
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Rio: Suite Luxury
At the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino (www.riolasvegas.
com), every day is Carnivale. The Rio is one of the top entertainment destinations in Las Vegas, offering guests a stellar
menu of memorable shows and musical performances, plus
hip hot spots I-Bar and VooDoo Lounge, and award-winning
restaurants. Feel the magic of Penn & Teller at the edgy and
hilarious comedians’ signature show, an impressive blend
of laughs and illusions. The Rio’s award-winning restaurants
take you around the world for an unforgettable culinary
experience. If you’re in the mood for Shepherd’s Pie, a cold
beer, or traditional Irish and American fare, try newly opened
McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon, the “Wildest Irish Pub on
Earth.” If you’ve got a taste for authentic barbecue, try RUB
BBQ, bringing the flavors of chef Paul Kirk, aka the “Kansas
City Baron of Barbecue,” to legions of BBQ aficionados in
Las Vegas. Café Martorano features Italian-American cooking
developed exclusively by self-taught talent Steve Martorano.
With Steve as owner, chef, and DJ, Café Martorano offers a
unique atmosphere which combines exceptional food with
extraordinary music. And when it’s time to recharge after
all of this endless excitement, kick back at the Rio’s sandy
beach and lagoon or retreat to one of the hotel’s marvelous
suites, which range from 600 to 1,600 square feet
of sheer luxury.
Paris Las Vegas: Joie de Vivre
The romance of the City of Light comes shining through
at Paris Las Vegas (www.parislasvegas.com),
inspiring guests with its sophisticated pleasures and European
savoir-faire. From the moment you stroll down the cobblestone walks and gander at the replicas of the Eiffel Tower,
Arc de Triomphe, Hotel de Ville, and Paris Opera House façade,
you know you’ve been transported to a special place. Guest
rooms are decorated in grand Parisian style using rich French
fabrics and custom-designed furnishings, and the Paris Spa
by Mandara is the ultimate in pampering. You’ll also enjoy
entertainment with a distinctive French twist at such nightlife
venues as Risqué, Le Cabaret, and Napoleon’s. Enjoy exquisite
culinary experiences as Paris Las Vegas brings to life different
aspects of French cuisine. Try Mon Ami Gabi, a Parisian-style
café featuring a Strip side European dining experience, or dine
while soaring 11 stories above the Strip at the Eiffel Tower
Restaurant, the resort’s signature dining experience and the
premier French restaurant in Las Vegas.
Clockwise from top left:
Paris LasVegas; handmade
meatballs from Café Martorano, the Rio; cocktails
at I-Bar, the Rio.
WRITER VANESSA READ DESIGN INGRID BUUCK, www.ibdstudio.com ISSUE JUNE 2008
PHOTOGRAPHY AGE FOTOSTOCK; ESTOCKTRAVEL; COURTESY OF BELLAGIO; MGM GRAND; PARIS LAS VEGAS; RIO ALL-SUITE HOTEL & CASINO
This special editorial/advertising supplement was created by the TRAVEL + LEISURE Special Sections department and did not involve the magazine’s
editorial staff. The names of companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. Reference to such third party
companies and/or products herein is for informational purposes only and is not intended to indicate or imply any affiliation, association,
sponsorship or endorsement. ©2008 American Express Corporation, all rights reserved.