Las Vegas Travel Guide

Though the Downtown original has closed, "old Las Vegas" remains alive at its surviving Strip sibling where "excellent", "rich" French fare ("even the butter is sautéed in butter") is served in "elegant", "Louis XIV–style" quarters; "impeccably polite service" further makes it "worth the splurge"; N.B. the Decor score does not reflect a post-Survey spruce-up.

"It feels like walking into a dream" swoon surveyors "wowed" by chef Charlie Palmer's "NYC transplant" in Mandalay Bay where a "dramatic entranceway" opens into a "beautiful" room with a multistory wine tower famously attended to by "harnessed" "angels" who "elegantly ascend" to retrieve vintages from a "tremendous" collection; "first-class" New American cuisine "rises to new heights" as well in a "superb" prix fixe menu while near "flawless" service "makes you feel like a million bucks"; in all, it's an experience of "sensory overload" that "more than satisfies", especially if "someone else is paying" the "insanely expensive" bill.

"A certain diet destroyer" say the legions of surveyors who endure almost "constant lines" for what they call the "mac daddy" of all buffets, with a "vast" spread of Eclectic dishes from "Buffalo wings to wild boar", "bountiful quantities" of seafood, plus a "fantastic" brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, where the champagne "flows like the Bellagio fountains themselves"; some contend it's more "expensive" than competitors, though defenders justify the "high" prices, declaring "it's the only meal you need for the day."

Thomas Keller's "relatively affordable" "outpost of gastronomy" in the Venetian is "absolutely true to his Yountville original" with "perfectly executed French bistro fare", from "heavenly breakfasts" ("light-as-a-feather waffles", a cheese Danish "to dream about") to "indescribably delicious" dinners; the "beautiful" Adam Tihany–designed dining area includes "relaxing" patio seating "overlooking a quiet, well-shaded pool" that "makes you forget where you are", so even if service is sometimes "a little lacking", patrons proclaim it all "thoroughly enjoyable" nonetheless.

A "serene", "elegant" "oasis" amid the "clanging bells" of Caesars Palace, this upscale New American from "Bay Area wonder chef" Bradley Ogden "charms" with "inspired" dishes so full of "fresh", "wonderful flavors" that "you forget how much you lost at the craps table"; the staff is "experienced" and "well-informed", though regulars note that "what really makes it best" is that the owner himself is often "on-site" (his "tours of the kitchen" are another "nice touch"); N.B. wallet-watchers say the bar menu is a less-expensive dining option.

"Even at 3 AM" when "you want to get back to the tables quickly", the casual New American food is "fresh and plentiful" and the staff "accommodating" at this around-the-clock, "upscale coffee shop" that's the "most reasonable place to eat" in the namesake hotel; a "lovely view" of the conservatory's "ever-fabulous", ever-changing floral garden makes this "quiet oasis" all the more "pleasant."

An "oasis" of "civility" "hidden away" in the Four Seasons Hotel, this "understated" steakhouse represents "dining at its finest" with "polished service", "sumptuous" cuisine and "a wine list that is sure to please"; the "elegant" Spanish-styled space with "room between the tables" means "you can actually hear the person sitting across from you", so while a few find it "overpriced", even those who agree attest they'll be "returning" nonetheless.

Boosters boast they're "never disappointed" at the Henderson, Northwest and Strip links of this "reliable" chain proffering "tasty" but "formulaic" American eats in "out-of-control" portions; "noisy", "family-friendly" environs often include "long lines" that are "a bit of a hassle", but the biggest drawback is that "there's never room" for their "heavenly" signature desserts ("if you really want one, have it first").

Boosters boast they're "never disappointed" at the Henderson, Northwest and Strip links of this "reliable" chain proffering "tasty" but "formulaic" American eats in "out-of-control" portions; "noisy", "family-friendly" environs often include "long lines" that are "a bit of a hassle", but the biggest drawback is that "there's never room" for their "heavenly" signature desserts ("if you really want one, have it first").

"A lot of imagination" was sunk into the menu and decor at this "funky, loud" Asian fusion "madhouse" that "fits the bill" for fans of "hip places"; the Mandalay Bay outpost of the NYC original "beautifully presents" "family-style" "creativity" in entrees like signature Shanghai lobster followed by "Disney-esque desserts"; after a few "delicious" concoctions poured by the "talent" that stirs up the "outstanding bar scene", you'll want to stop into "the coolest bathrooms in town."

This "tropical"–themed "oasis right off the Strip" is "challenging enough for even the most avid golfer" thanks to a "tough", "stunning" layout sprinkled with bunkers "so bright, sunglasses are needed"; despite "constant" "noise from McCarran Airport" and a "less-than-memorable practice range", there are plenty of perks, including an "accommodating staff", "nice clubhouse" and notable restaurant; P.S. you'd "better have a good day at the tables to pay for the round."

Eighteen "noteworthy holes" pieced together from Jack Nicklaus' extensive portfolio is the "interesting concept" behind this "excellent experience"; the "rare sight of black-sand bunkers" is a "unique" touch on a layout that offers "variety" and "challenge", but there's debate over cost ("fair by Vegas standards" vs. "too pricey for anyone who hasn't hit the jackpot") and not everyone is glad that it's "dropped the forecaddie program"; P.S. "play it now before the houses devour it."

"First-time visitors" to this half-scale replica of la Tour Eiffel towering over Paris Las Vegas come for the "spectacular views" and glimpses of the Bellagio fountains; it's "a little expensive", but even fans insist you only need to "do it once."

Conjuring up the quintessential "Las Vegas image" is this Bellagio "spectacle" (rated Most Popular and No. 1 for Appeal among Las Vegas Attractions) where onlookers "ooh and ahh" at the "mesmerizing" water show synchronized to "thunderous" music that's best enjoyed with your "arms wrapped around your special someone"; there's "ample room" to appreciate it from "out on the boulevard", though diehards declare it's most "memorable" "from a lakefront room in the hotel"; either way, it's truly "awe-inspiring", "and it's free!"

Downtown "sparkles" "brighter" than it did back when it was known as 'Glitter Gulch' thanks to this "touristy" attention-getter – a pedestrian mall where "light shows" are projected onto an LED display canopy and "free concerts", a "hodgepodge" of entertainers and a collection of refurbished historic neon signs provide additional draws; the vibe's a bit "seedy" (think "lowbrow carnival"), so those seeking the "golden years" of "old Vegas" would do best to skip the street "scene" and duck into one of the vintage casinos.

"Cheesy? you bet", but plenty of "romantics" "still love" gliding through the Venetian's Grand Canal to the strains of "singing gondoliers", even if the whole experience essentially adds up to "a pricey boat ride through a mall"; enthusiasts advise you make a "reservation" to bypass "waits" and be prepared for "everyone" to "gawk" "as you go by."

Surrounded by "spectacular", "rugged" red rocks, this "stunning" West Side "respite" offers "terrific hiking", biking and rock climbing, as well as a 13-mile scenic drive, making it a "no-brainer" for a "delightful excursion" that's "a wonderful antidote to the neon and plastic of Las Vegas"; it's only about 20 minutes away so surveyors suggest you "rent a car", bring a "camera" (and water) and get ready to "commune with nature"; N.B. admission to the park is free, but there's a $5 charge per vehicle.

"Thrill-seekers" who haven't gotten enough "excitement" at the tables head to this "awesome roller coaster" that plummets down a 144-ft. drop and then twists and dives around New York-New York offering "great views" of the Statue of Liberty (as long as you can "keep your eyes open"); "long lines" and "expensive" tickets may seem daunting, but "even the most jaded" overlook both for what they say is one of "the best rides in Vegas"; P.S. "try it at night!"

"Considering you're nowhere near the ocean", this "neat, but small" aquarium in Mandalay Bay is quite a "surprise", "enticing both parents and kids" with "beautifully laid out" tanks of piranha, sea turtles and, of course, sharks, as well as "interactive feeding displays" and a "petting" area that's pretty "amazing" too; a few complain of "predatory" pricing, but fin fans find it a "fascinating" experience nonetheless, abetted by "helpful" guides – "it's hard to believe this is in a casino!"

A "lush tropical escape", this "mini-zoo" at the Mirage founded by Siegfried & Roy houses an "amazing" array of Royal White Tigers, lions, panthers and leopards all "lovingly cared for" in a "natural setting"; adjoining the garden is a marine "research facility" where you can see dolphins "at play" in an "educational" context ("don't go expecting a show"); both areas are "well organized and guided."

Great White Way wannabes, "sing your hearts out" at New York-New York's "party" crossroads, where "dueling pianos rock" a "corny" songfest and the ambiance is as "noisy, crowded and fun" as the Big Apple itself; the "standing-room-only" attendees advise "get there early", order drink refills "two at a time" and "leave late (and a little hoarse)."

"The show's the thing" at this "first-rate" concert venue in the Mandalay Bay, which "grabs the best headliners" (plus tribute acts and "live-band karaoke") for "upbeat" gigs in an "up-close" setting; if "you're lucky", a member's invite to the top-floor Foundation Room yields "spectacular drinks" and "stunning" views, and carousers can exorcise the previous night at Sunday's "exciting" gospel brunch.

"A-list celebs and those wishing they were" find "pure bliss" at this "phenomenal" "high-end" club in Caesars Palace, a "multiroom" expanse of "clean white" with a "packed dance floor" and a "fabulous" terrace boasting "breathtaking views"; the "insane" lines and "restrictive" door are "quite the ordeal", but if you "plan on spending" here's where to "go all out" ("believe the hype").

"Drink up, comrade!" at this "Soviet-inspired" barski in Mandalay Bay, which goes back "behind the Iron Curtain" with its "overwhelming selection of vodkas" and "decadent" interior replete with red-velvet booths, an "über-cool" "frozen" bartop ("put your cares on ice") and a "freezer room" for subzero shots; though a "splurge" with frosty service "from Siberia", it's a "favorite for chilling."

"A classic reborn", the MGM Grand's multi-tiered update of the disco-era flashpoint is a chance to "boogie oogie oogie" to "great '70s and '80s" sounds as "go-go dancers and acrobats" cavort under the mirror ball; if the "slightly older" clientele's "lacking", it's "easier to get in" than other Strip hot spots and it's got "staying power" like it's "still 1977."

"East meets West" at the Venetian's "dark and exotic" "New York transplant", an "extravagant" sanctuary that bundles Buddhist "temple" statuary, "kinky" "models bathing", "killer DJs" and "celeb sightings" into "A-list" "allure" (it's voted Most Popular in the Las Vegas Nightlife Survey); the "'it'" scene makes for "very selective" entry, but acolytes with "cash to throw around" have no taobt it's "worth it"; N.B. Tao Beach, set inside the hotel's posh pool area, is open every day until sunset for lounging on daybeds or carousing in one of seven private cabanas outfitted with minibars and plasma TVs.

"East meets West" at the Venetian's "dark and exotic" "New York transplant", an "extravagant" sanctuary that bundles Buddhist "temple" statuary, "kinky" "models bathing", "killer DJs" and "celeb sightings" into "A-list" "allure" (it's voted Most Popular in the Las Vegas Nightlife Survey); the "'it'" scene makes for "very selective" entry, but acolytes with "cash to throw around" have no taobt it's "worth it"; N.B. Tao Beach, set inside the hotel's posh pool area, is open every day until sunset for lounging on daybeds or carousing in one of seven private cabanas outfitted with minibars and plasma TVs.

Tryst the night away in "stunning" style at this swanketorium in the Wynn, where "star-seekers" and "serious hotties" roam "the poshest" of velvet-lined interiors (it's rated No. 1 for Decor in the Las Vegas Nightlife Survey), having "a blast" on the indoor/outdoor dance floor or "cooling off" on the loungey patio alongside an "awesome" 90-ft. waterfall; despite a "brutal" door and "over-the-top" tabs, it'll "impress even the most traveled and jaded clubber."

"Sweeping views of the Strip" and a crowd torn "from the pages of People" are "something to behold" at this literally "high-end" "ultra-lounge" on the Palms' 55th floor, a "hip" haunt known for its "pretty" patrons, "awesome" DJs and "freaky" see-through deck with a fearsome drop underfoot; in keeping with the "trendy" spirit, it'll "cost you" and "line issues" may materialize.

With "million-dollar" "views over Vegas" ("even from the bathrooms"), this "chichi" lounge crowning THEhotel at Mandalay Bay – ranked No. 1 for Appeal in the Las Vegas Nightlife Survey – is where "pretty people" "in-the-know" mix in a "mod" space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a "stunning" balcony "overlooking the Strip"; given the "can't-miss" "sex appeal" and "platinum-card" pricing, "you'll feel you've made it, if only for the night."