Las Vegas beyond the casinos
You can have a spectacular Vegas trip without placing a single bet. The city is now one of America's great dining destinations, the Sphere redefined what a concert venue can be, and some of the Southwest's most dramatic landscapes are within a day trip. Here's the non-gambler's playbook.
Day trips: Grand Canyon, Red Rock and Hoover Dam
Red Rock Canyon is 30 minutes away — a stunning scenic drive and hiking loop you can do in a morning. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead make an easy half-day. The Grand Canyon is a full-day commitment: West Rim (Skywalk) is about 2 hours away by car; the classic South Rim views are closer to 4.5 hours, or a splurge-worthy helicopter tour.
Shows, the Sphere and arenas
Between Cirque du Soleil residencies, headline concerts, Sphere experiences and Golden Knights or Raiders games, there's a world-class event every night of the year. Check the calendar for your dates before booking the hotel — being able to walk home from the show is one of Vegas's great luxuries.
Eat like it's the main event
Vegas gathers restaurants from the world's most famous chefs within a few walkable miles — from splashy tasting menus to the best food courts in America. Book marquee restaurants ahead; for value, hit the fancy rooms at lunch.
Pools, spas and shopping
Resort pool complexes are attractions in their own right, and most spas sell day passes even to non-guests. The Forum Shops, Grand Canal Shoppes and the North Premium Outlets cover every budget. In summer, do outdoors early and save the afternoon for air-conditioning.