Las Vegas in 2 Days
Las Vegas is a dazzling desert city located in Southern Nevada, made famous by its world-class casinos and nightlife. Easily accessible via either Harry Reid International Airport or by road, Vegas acts as a gateway to the Southwest. The best place to begin a road trip, to celebrate a special occasion, or even to escape to other worlds. Discover the best of what Las Vegas has to offer beyond nightlife and gambling.
Contents
Table of Contents
Itinerary
DAY 1
Las Vegas Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is the central part of the small city, lined with all the biggest casinos. So, spend the day casino hopping along Las Vegas Boulevard. You will be transported to other worlds, including Egypt, Italy, New York and more. Each venue has something new to offer, and you will get lost exploring the maze of casinos. However, my favourite casinos to explore on the Las Vegas Strip are:
Bellagio
The Venetian
Caesar’s Palace
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Bellagio is arguably the most famous hotel on the Strip, and there is so much to explore in this venue alone. Beyond the casino, one of the best things to see here is the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This is a gorgeous display of colourful flora hidden in a grand sunroom just behind the hotel reception. The Conservatory is free to visit, even if you are not staying at Bellagio as a guest. Even if it is not your first visit to Las Vegas, the Conservatory display is changed five times a year. So, there is bound to be a new garden to explore for everyone.
Buffet at Bellagio
Another must-do experience at Bellagio is the Buffet at Bellagio. This is the best buffet I have ever experienced, and who doesn’t love a good buffet? Pile your plate with everything from branded pancakes, sushi, seafood, pasta, cheesecake and so much more amazing food from around the world. I recommend visiting at lunchtime to indulge in the delicious brunch selection. You can expect to pay around per person USD$50* for the brunch sitting, so make sure to visit on an empty stomach to make the most of the experience. Note that there will likely be longer wait times on weekends.
Bellagio Fountains
Admittedly, a lot of the fun on the Strip hides inside the casinos. However the Fountains of Bellagio are a romantic exception to this. I recommend viewing the Water Show once during the day facing Bellagio Las Vegas, as well as once at night facing Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. Each show is a mesmerising display of music and fountains that will take your breath away. The Water Show is also free for everyone, and runs every 15-30 minutes depending on the day. Check the schedule here for your time of visit.
Fremont Street Experience
Tonight, head to Downtown Las Vegas for one of the highlights of the city. The Fremont Street Experience is a dazzling display of live music and old-school casinos hidden away from the main Las Vegas Strip. Lined with bars and casinos, it gets crowded and lively every night of the week. However, the main attraction is the incredible Viva Vision light show that illuminates the venue in all shades of gold and neon each night. Entry to Fremont Street is free, although note that you must be over 21 years of age to enter after 9PM. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy flying above the crowds on the SlotZilla Zipline for USD$69*.
DAY 2
North Las Vegas Premium Outlets
Admittedly, Las Vegas can certainly feel like it is designed to drain your money and the outlet shopping is no exception. But the North Las Vegas Premium Outlets are some of the best in the USA, not to mention a more affordable alternative to the designer exclusivity along the Las Vegas Strip. The mall is home to over 300 stores, including Lululemon, Dolce & Gabbana, and even a Shake Shack for a well-earned lunch stop. The easiest way to get to the outlets is via Deuce bus. It will pick you up outside most of the big casinos along the Las Vegas Strip, and only costs USD$8* for a 24-hour ticket.
High Roller
The appropriately-named High Roller is the largest observation wheel in North America, and provides one of the best views over the Las Vegas Strip. It is worth riding the wheel at sunset, to see the sky light up in all shades of pink before the desert comes alive with neon lights. It is worth booking tickets in advance, and you will be able to ride anytime throughout the day. Expect to pay around USD$23.50* to ride before 7PM, and USD$34.75* to ride after 7PM.
Las Vegas Shows
Spend your final night in the city catching an iconic Las Vegas Show. Choose anything from magic to comedy to some of the world’s biggest music artists. There are always a range of long-term shows and short-term options. Check the vegas.com website to see what is showing for the dates of your visit. Cirque du Soleil shows always blow me away, and is a great year-round option. Tickets typically cost between USD$50-150*, however this depends on seat selection and other factors.
*Please note that all prices are current as of the publication date of this post.
