Whether it’s New Year’s Eve, Independence Day weekend, or one of those random special events when Las Vegas decides to flex, there are countless great spots to catch a spectacular fireworks show. And trust me—you want to know the best viewing spots so you don’t end up craning your neck from behind a shrub at a strip mall.

Here’s your insider’s guide to the best places to watch the sky light up in the heart of the Strip, downtown Las Vegas, and beyond.

New Year’s Eve: America’s Party, Vegas Style

If there’s one night of the year Las Vegas is guaranteed to deliver, it’s New Year’s Eve. Known as America’s Party, this coordinated fireworks display shuts down a section of Las Vegas Boulevard and transforms the Strip resorts into launch pads for an eight-minute display that’s impossible to forget (unless you hit the open bar a little too hard).

The las vegas strip fireworks are launched from multiple rooftops—places like Planet Hollywood Resort, Treasure Island, the MGM Grand, and the front of Caesars Palace. It’s a coordinated show, choreographed to music, and viewed by hundreds of thousands of people jammed onto the boulevard.

Good idea: Claim your spot early on one of the pedestrian bridges along the Strip for a good view of the fireworks.

Better idea: Book a spot at one of the Strip’s sky-high venues like the Legacy Club at Circa (yes, technically in downtown Las Vegas, but worth it). They usually feature an open bar, live DJ set, and a literal bird’s eye view of the city.

Fourth of July: When Vegas Says, “Let’s Go Big”

The Fourth of July fireworks in Las Vegas are another level. The city goes all in for an Independence Day weekend of live music, pool parties, and, of course, spectacular fireworks.

• Caesars Palace (Front of Caesars): Known for hosting one of the only fireworks shows directly on the Strip for the holiday. If you want great spot on Las Vegas Boulevard, you’ll have to get there early—but it’s worth it.
• Beer Park at Paris: Grab a table, some Mexican food, and a cold drink while you watch the fireworks explode above the heart of the Strip.
• Cabo Wabo Cantina at Planet Hollywood Resort: Another perfect place for views, margaritas, and people-watching.
• LINQ Promenade: Offers a family-friendly vibe with a good chance of live performances, live band sets, and a fun atmosphere before the fireworks begin.

And yes, last year’s july celebration saw heavy winds threaten the schedule (because nothing says “freedom” like waiting to see if the weather cancels your plans), but when the fireworks show finally went up, it was worth every minute.

Station Casinos: Local Love, Big Booms

If you’re not into battling Strip crowds (or traffic congestion that makes you reconsider your life choices), head to one of the many Station Casinos properties across Southern Nevada. Each one puts on its own firework displays, and they’re honestly some of the best places for families and locals.

• Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa: Head to Red Rock Resort for their impressive fireworks show. Watching the bursts against the backdrop of the rugged terrain is a vibe.
• Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa: Over in Henderson, the resort’s resort’s main pool often doubles as the viewing area. Expect live entertainment and a festive crowd.
• Sunset Station in Henderson, Boulder Station, and Santa Fe Station also put on solid shows. You’ll find live music, plenty of space, and way fewer tourists.

Pro tip: Many of these resorts have cozy cabin-level charm if you book into their vacation rentals or hotel rooms. Plus, hotel guests usually get the best viewing areas roped off for them.

Downtown Las Vegas: Fremont Street & The Plaza

Downtown Las Vegas has its own flavor of fireworks—less about rooftop launches and more about big energy under the canopy of the Fremont Street Experience. Here, the real show is the light show overhead, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of special events with live performances and even test shots of fireworks to add some flair.

The real fireworks display downtown happens at the Plaza Hotel Casino. Their popular location just off Fremont offers massive fireworks shows for both July 4th and New Year’s Eve. The bonus? You’re already downtown, so you can celebrate with cheap drinks and questionable karaoke afterward.

Resorts World

Since opening, Resorts World has been trying to prove it belongs on the Strip with the big players. Spoiler alert: it does. Their rooftop fireworks show on big holidays is sleek, modern, and designed for social media. Pair that with live DJ sets, pool parties, and the hottest DJs working the turntables, and you’ve got yourself a night.

Family-Friendly Fireworks in Southern Nevada

Not every fireworks show in Vegas requires sequins and stilettos. Some popular locations around Clark County keep things fun and wholesome (or at least as wholesome as fireworks in Vegas can get).

• Heritage Park in Henderson: A great place for families with plenty of picnic tables, a friendly crowd, and a safe environment for kids to run around before the fireworks.
• Lake Las Vegas: This spot knows how to put on a spectacular fireworks show reflected off the water. Combine that with dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect july celebration.
• Las Vegas Motor Speedway: The Speedway hosts the Las Vegas Aviators and plenty of special events where fireworks cap off the night. Grab general admission tickets for the family and expect a good time.

Pool Parties and Rooftop Views

Vegas in the summer = pool season. If you’d rather watch fireworks in your swimsuit with a cocktail in hand, the Strip resorts are way ahead of you.

• Wet Republic at MGM Grand: Think wall-to-wall people, live DJ sets, and the kind of energy that makes you want to nap for three days afterward.
• Resort’s main pool parties at Mandalay Bay and Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa are also great spots to catch fireworks while enjoying modern amenities like an open bar and cabana service.
• Rooftop venues like Legacy Club or lounges with a bird’s eye view are the perfect spot if you want the fireworks without chlorine water splashing in your face.

A Few Pro Tips

• Heavy winds happen often in the desert, so don’t be shocked if fireworks are delayed. The city isn’t about to send flaming debris into the crowd.
• Best way to avoid disappointment? Head to multiple shows over the holiday weekend getaway. You’ll have a good chance of catching at least one without delay.
• Pedestrian bridges are your friend. They’re elevated, free, and usually less crowded than street level.
• Good view of the fireworks? Arrive early. Vegas doesn’t mess around with special events, and those popular locations fill up fast.

The Bottom Line

Las Vegas doesn’t just put on fireworks—it stages impressive fireworks productions that rival anything you’ve ever seen. From the spectacular fireworks exploding above the Strip resorts to firework displays at Station Casinos properties, there’s no shortage of great places to celebrate.

Whether you’re partying with the hottest DJs at a pool party, sipping cocktails on a rooftop, or watching with the kids at Heritage Park, the city has a good view of the fireworks for every vibe.

So, next time you’re planning a holiday weekend in Vegas—whether it’s July 4th, New Year’s Eve, or just an excuse to celebrate Tuesday—remember this: in Las Vegas, fireworks aren’t just fireworks. They’re a spectacular fireworks display, choreographed to outdo whatever you saw last year, and proof that in this town, there’s no such thing as “too much.”

Read Next:

• 38 Things do with Teenagers in Las Vegas
• 9 ATV Adventures in and around Las Vegas 

The post Where to See Fireworks in Las Vegas: The Best Viewing Spots appeared first on Mommy Travels.

I’ve previously mentioned that I went to Las Vegas for my baby sister’s bachelorette party. Since I am her only sister and maid of honor, I put the event together. I wanted to make the weekend fun, but extra special.

I had seen different ideas on Pinterest and ended up doing something similar to things I had seen. I just loved the way everything turned out and wanted to share them with you. I think everyone left feeling like it was a perfect bachelorette party. 

Bachelorette Party Favors

Each person attending the Vegas bachelorette weekend got a few gifts. I mean what’s a party without some bachelorette gifts? received a personalized wine glass. I had these glasses made up. (Holly at AllMyGoodness did them!) All the girls loved them.

I also made up these survival kits for the party. I have a lot of ideas for building survival kits this post. 

• 2 drink mixes
• 1 mini bottle of liquor
• 1 mini bottle of bubbly
• 2 bandaids (for your feet after dancing the night away in heels)1 granola bar
• 2 Tylenol
• Shout on the go wipes (Nobody wants to go with a stain on their dress)
• 2 sticks of gum
• 1 nail file

PINCH Minimergency Kit

If you do not want to put together your own emergency kits I recommend handing out PINCH Minimergency Kit. This all-inclusive kit is designed to help women survive beauty, fashion, and personal care predicaments. Fix flyaways with a teeny-tiny hairspray. Stop runs in your hose with clear nail polish. Mend a fallen hem with double-sided tape. This kit does it all—and it comes in an adorable, portable pouch.

• A 17-piece kit of beauty, fashion, and personal care products for fast fixes on the go.
• Includes double-sided tape, a safety pin, a mending kit, 2 earring backs, dental floss, clear nail polish, an emery board, nail polish remover, stain remover, hair spray, clear hair elastics, a tampon, pain reliever, breath freshener, and lip balm.

Book for the Pool

Last but not least I gave everyone a copy of A Reliable Wife, because you have to have a book to read at the pool or at the beach! Also, because it’s an ironic story. She’s not a very good wife.

Other Bachelorette Party Gift Ideas

• Shot glasses
• Hair ties
• Sun Hats
• Robes
• Personalize Tumbler
• Custom Flip Flops
• Sunglasses
• Drink Sleeves
• Tote Bags
• Makeup Bags
• Face masks
• Bath bombs
• Essential oils
• Pajama set
• Water bottle
• Luxury hand creams
• Custom koozie

Bride to Be Sash

How to Make a Custom Sash

1. Get approximately 2 yards (1.8 m) of a 3 inches (7.6 cm) fabric. Measure the fabric on someone by wrapping it from their hip to their opposite shoulder and back down to their hip. Consider a thicker, matte type of fabric to ensure that the iron-on letters will adhere to the ribbon.
2. Choose the trim. Accent your sash with some fringe or lace. Make sure to get enough to cover the entire edge of the sash.
3. Select iron-on letters. Choose iron-on letters in the style and color of your choice. Make sure that the letters are the iron-on type and that they will fit onto the sash you have chosen.
   
4. Pin the trim to the fabric. To accent your sash, pin the trim to one edge of the fabric or to both edges if desired. Make sure that the edges of the ribbon and trim are overlapping by at least 0.5 inches (1.3 cm). Place a pin through the ribbon and trim every 2 inches (5.1 cm) to 3 inches (7.6 cm) to secure them.
5. Sew the trim in place. Use your sewing machine to sew a straight stitch about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) from the edge of the trim to secure it to the ribbon. Make sure that you sew through the fabric and the trim.
6. Position the letters on the fabric. Fold the fabric in half so that the two ends are matched up, and lay the fabric on a flat surface. Then, begin placing the letters so that they are centered on the fabric. Start and finish placing the letters about 3 inches (7.6 cm) to 6 inches (150 mm) from the fold and the end of the section. Space letters out as evenly as possible.
7. Iron the letters in place. Follow the instructions for the iron-on letters to iron them onto the Fabric. You may need to cover the letters with a towel to protect them from the heat. Follow the instructions that come with the letters.
8. Pin the ends of the sash together. Before you secure the ends of the sash, try it on. Position the sash how you want to wear it and adjust the ends so that they meet near your hip. The ends should be overlapping at a slight angle. When you are happy with the fit, place a pin through the 2 ends to secure them.
9. Sew across the sash ends. Remove the sash with the pin still in place. Then, use your sewing machine to sew a straight stitch across the two ends. Sew just below where you pinned the ends together. Remove the pin after you finish sewing.
10. Cut off the excess material. After you finish sewing the ends together, cut along the edge of the seam, about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) from the stitches you just sewed. Then, discard the excess fabric and your sash is ready to wear.

Lucky for me, I have a friend that can sew because I cannot and she knocked this out in no time. Lindsey and I have been best friends since we were 11 year olds. 

Bachelorette Party T-Shirts

Mix -shirts can be super fun for the party. Everyone in the bride tribe should get one. There are so many cute ideas on Etsy. You can customize them based on personality or destination. There are lots with team bride or bride squad. Here are a few I thought were super cute. 

Tanks would be great for going to a day club pool party or the beach.

And of course, you need a bag to give them all this cool stuff inside so it might as well be a personalized bag. 

Hotel Room Thematic Baskets

You can also put together a basket of goodies to keep in each room. You can choose items based on the type of bachelorette party it is which is usually based on the bride’s personality. For example, a spa weekend is very different than attending wild parties in Las Vegas. Some fun gift ideas to go into each basket or gift bag are:

• Pre-made Coffee drinks
• Bottled water
• Liquid band-aid (if you are wearing heel and going dancing or doing a bar crawl this will help prevent blisters on your feet)
• Lidocaine (spray it on your feet to prevent them from hurting)
• Bottle of Champagne (maybe one per day)
• White and red wine
• Pre-made alcoholic beverages like Mudslides, Margaritas, or Long Island Ice Teas.
• Deodorant
• Eye drops
• Allergy medicine
• Chips
• Popcorn
• Pop-tarts (or some other breakfast to keep everyone from getting angry before brunch)
• Feminine Hygiene products
• Cheers or Purple Tree hangover pills
• Magazines to read by the pool
• Snacks

Have you thrown an epic bachelorette party? We would love to hear about it and your ideas!

Read Next:

Las Vegas Vacation Guide

Best VRBO Las Vegas Vacation Homes

The post Bachelorette Party Favors appeared first on Mommy Travels.

What To Pack For Las Vegas

What you take to Las Vegas depends on what you plan to do there. Vegas hosts an endless assortment of conferences, bachelor and bachelorette parties, weddings, and so much more. What you need to pack is fully dependent on why you are in Las Vegas and what you plan to do while you are there. 

What to Wear at Night in Las Vegas

Have you ever wondered what to wear at night in Las Vegas, specifically when you go out dancing/Clubbing? Over the last few years, one of the most frequently asked questions I’ve gotten is: “What do I wear out while I am in Vegas?”.

If you are going nightclubbing you will want to dress accordingly. It’s Vegas so you can probably wear whatever you want but check ahead of time to see if there is a dress code. Maybe you are going somewhere like a nightclub and want to make sure you get in. At night shining jewelry is always fun. If you are uncomfortable wearing a sexy little dress, you can always wear bicycling shorts under it. Book a Vegas party bus bar crawl!

Apparently, this is something lots of ladies need to know, so I created this post to help you answer that question. I hope it helps. If you are still not sure, just head over to Forever 21 and find something you like! Keep in mind that a party dress you wear in Las Vegas may not be something you will wear again, so be thrifty if possible. You could even just rent a dress. 

These are the types of dresses I saw the most on women while I lived there. Most women seem to wear black. Ultimately, I suggest you wear what you are comfortable in and what makes you feel good. If you feel good about how you look you will have more fun!

Day Club

Vegas also has several secluded day club hotel pool areas where the rule is clothing optional. If you spend your sun and swim time there, you don’t need anything extra in your suitcase. For the ladies, if you are headed to a day club you will want to wear a cute/sexy swimsuit, jewelry, lipstick, and a sexy swimsuit cover-up.

Again, if you are not comfortable with what you are wearing you will not be having fun. Make sure you feel okay with lots of people seeing you in the swimsuit you choose. I’ve noticed that lately, I’ve been more comfortable in a high-waisted swimsuit. 

Fremont Street

Fremont Street has a ton of new bars that are fun to hang out at. This area of town is super casual. Jeans, a nice top, and decent shoes will be fine. I saw people dressed every which way last time I was down there. 

Keep it Casual

During other times when there are no organized meals or social activities, it is OK to take the same kind of informal, comfortable clothing other Vegas visitors wear. Casual dresses, jeans, rompers, flip flops, jean shorts, light jackets for evenings outside and in air-conditioned casinos. The Las Vegas daytime weather is brutally hot in the summer months but cools down quickly at night. Take a cap or hat along as well as sunglasses to protect you from the heat if you plan to walk outside during the sunny part of the day.

Although every building in Vegas looks like it is right next door to all the others, going through the large hotel hallways, visiting hotels across the street and strolling the Strip require comfortable walking shoes.

If you swim and/or sun, a man needs a swimsuit, while a woman needs a swimsuit, cap and casual shoes or sandals.

Choose from 80+ attractions & offers with the Las Vegas Sightseeing DAY Pass.

Wedding or other formal event

If you’ll be attending a formal or semi-formal wedding at a big church or major resort hotel banquet room, you’ll need a suitcase stuffed with the required traditional wedding guest clothing. You’ll need it to get you through the ceremony, as well as for all the social activities involved.

For women, that means a dress or pantssuit and shoes appropriate for the ceremony and, depending on how many days you’ll be in Vegas, several more dresses or suits for evening events.

For men, the need is for at least one suit and/or sports coat with trousers, shirts with collars, ties and leather shoes. If the event takes more than two days and nights, another suit or sports coat outfit could be required.

Vegas Nails

A super fun addition to any outfit would be Vegas-themed nails. 

Pack Light

Take Only What You Need

Our rule for packing to go to Las Vegas is to travel as lightly as possible. Unless we’re attending a reunion, wedding or another dress-up event, we don’t want to lug along any useless weight. First, we put out all the clothing we know we’ll need for the trip into our suitcases. Then we take half of it out and leave it behind. We’ve never, ever said in Vegas, “Oh, we didn’t bring enough clothing!”

Carry-On Only

Another thing we do is to take only one-wheeled carry-on each that fits in the aircraft overhead compartment, and sometimes backpacks that fit under the seat. After our first trips to Vegas when we lugged along big suitcases and had to wait an hour or more for them after our flight, we’ve never checked anything again. The Las Vegas airport is chaotic!

One more trick

In the months before your trip, set aside some worn stuff that is almost ready for the scrap heap, including underwear, socks, shirts, dresses, skirts, trousers, jackets, and other clothing. In Vegas, we wear older clothing once, then throw it away. That way, we don’t have to wash anything, and our suitcases are lighter when we return home. Except, of course, for all the cash we won gambling can really fill up a suitcase.

Free Printable Pack List

Discover things to do in Las Vegas. Save on activities + Reserve Now and Pay Later 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. 

The post What to Wear at Night in Las Vegas appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Whether you are planning a girls trip, family vacation, or a quick weekend getaway, Mommy Travels can help you out with our Las Vegas Guide.

Not only have we vacationed extensively in Las Vegas, but we also lived there for years. Our Las Vegas Guide will help you determine where to stay, where to eat, what to wear, where to party, and what to go see while you are in Vegas.

And don’t let the publish date on this article fool you. I constantly update this!

Las Vegas City GuideWhere to Eat in Las Vegas

With so many places to eat in Las Vegas, it can be difficult deciding where to eat and drink in Las Vegas. Here are some that I think stand out and why.

If you are seeking out places to eat that are Instagram worthy, we’ve found 19 Instagram-Worthy restaurants in Las Vegas!

Breakfast

Best Breakfast in Las Vegas

• 2nd Best Breakfast in Las Vegas
• Las Vegas Best Brunch Off the Strip

Breakfast at Della’s Kitchen at the Delano

Best Places to Eat Brunch in Vegas

Best Places To Eat in Las Vegas

Lunch or Dinner

Best Brazilian Steakhouse in Vegas!

Best German food in Las Vegas

Best Happy Hour in Las Vegas

Best Tapas in Las Vegas

Best Thai food in Las Vegas – Seriously good and James Beard award-winning

Canelleto restaurant inside the Venetian

Giada’s Restaurant

Dessert

12 Best Milkshakes in Las Vegas

8 Best Desserts in Las Vegas

Kid-Friendly Options

18 Family Restaurants in Las Vegas

Sugar Factory and maybe see some celebrities!

Where kids can eat free in Las Vegas

31 Kid-Friendly Happy Hours in Las Vegas

Exciting Family Dining in Vegas!

Where to Play in Vegas

There are so many fun things to do in Las Vegas, ranging from free to extremely expensive. The good news though is that you can find anything within your budget.

AREA15 Las Vegas

ATV Adventures in and around Las Vegas 

Best Pools in Las Vegas

Best Spas in Las Vegas

12 Awesome Free things to do in Las Vegas

10 Kid-Friendly Activities in Las Vegas

Bellagio Conservatory – Always changing and always free, the conservatory is always decked out in flowers.

Caesar’s Palace Forum Shops

Calico Basin – free hiking near the Red Rocks

Day Trips from Las Vegas

FREE Activities in Las Vegas

Fremont Experience

Half off tickets in Vegas

High Roller Sky Wheel – The tallest observation wheel in the world, peaking at 550 feet, the High Roller offers views of the Strip and the surrounding desert valley.

Historical Landmarks Worth Seeing

Indoor Rock Climbing

Mandara Spa at Planet Hollywood (day spa)

Lake Las Vegas

Lied Discovery Children’s Museum is an interactive, hands-on museum for children of all ages. Located only minutes from downtown Las Vegas, Lied Discovery Museum features educational exhibits centering around the environment and culture. Exhibits and pricing are prone to change.

Pawn Stars

Tivoli Playground – An outdoor shopping center with a covered playground for kids. Plus, there is a splash pad and a sandbox.

Shark Reef –  Mandalay Bay has an awesome aquarium with all kinds of fish and sharks. It even has touch pools.

Springs Preserve – Springs Preserve is a unique destination tailor-fit for Las Vegas. Located only 10 minutes from the strip, Springs Preserve’s focal point is on environmental conservation. Exhibits on desert habitats and ecosystems are presented in a fresh and fun way that can be enjoyed by the entire family. The trails and outside exhibits are free, but there is an entrance fee of around $15 for all indoor activities. Concerts and special events are often incorporated into their calendar, along with occasional rate specials.

Valley of Fire

Things to do with Toddlers in Las Vegas

Things to do with Teenagers in Las Vegas

Popular Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

Top 10 Things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip

12 Incredible Day Trips From Las Vegas

Where to Party in Vegas

Let’s face it, you are probably in Las Vegas to party. Or at least to party one of the nights you are there!

Where to Stay in Vegas

You will have a good time no matter where you stay, but here’s a look at many of the hotels we’ve stayed at. These photos and reviews should give you a solid idea of where you will want to stay.

Best VRBO Las Vegas Vacation Homes

Most Luxurious Jacuzzi Suites

Aliante Station (North Las Vegas)

Caesar’s Palace

Cosmopolitan

Golden Nugget

The Luxor

Mandalay Bay

Residence Inn Las Vegas South

The Palazzo

Trump

Best Hotels for Kids in Las Vegas

Cheap Places to Stay in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Shows

Recycled Percussion

Las Vegas Tips

How to Vacation in Vegas on a Budget

9 Tips for Taking Kids to Las Vegas

12 Ways to Save Money in Las Vegas

Girlfriends Getaway to Las Vegas

Las Vegas with Kids

Scavenger Hunt for Kids in Las Vegas 

5-day Las Vegas itinerary for families

Plan a Romantic Las Vegas Getaway

What time is it in Las Vegas?

Here is the current time in Las Vegas!

Have you been to Vegas? Where did you stay? Do you have a show to recommend or a restaurant? Leave a comment below!

The post Las Vegas Guide appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Ultimate Golf Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve put together an itinerary that’s an excellent winter getaway for the whole family. You’ll get to play some of the world’s finest golf courses while non-golfers will enjoy some of the most beautiful and entertaining destinations in the world. You can even rough it in a few places if you’re into camping, or book a room in a lodge if you’re looking for more luxurious accommodations.

First stop: Phoenix, Arizona

If you’re getting away in the winter, Phoenix is the best place to start your road trip. From the moment your plane lands, the whole city radiates heat. If you’re there in February or March, you can take in a few Cactus League MLB spring training games, getting up close and personal with big stars and top prospects in a way you can’t do during the regular season.

TPC Scottsdale

Golfers will want to make their way to TPC Scottsdale, the legendary home of the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Featuring 36 holes of stunning championship golf, including the famous rowdy par 3 16th and driveable par 4 17th, TPC Scottsdale makes for memorable rounds with both incredible architecture and stunning scenery.

Stadium Course

The Stadium Course is the one the PGA Tour plays on, and it features surprisingly large and forgiving fairways. You pay a bit of a premium because it’s a PGA Tour course, but it’s well worth the price of admission. With gorgeous vistas of mountains looming in the background and plenty of risk/reward holes, it’s a round you’ll remember.

Play 18 holes of golf with a PGA Tour Professional in Scottsdale

Phoenix Activities

Non-golfers will find plenty of activities in Scottsdale including scenic hiking trails, stand-up paddling on the Salt River, guided desert tours, and a fantastic Children’s Museum in downtown Phoenix.

Next Stop: Grand Canyon

After enjoying a round at the Stadium Course and another at the Champions Course at TPC Scottsdale, pack up the car and head north to one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World: the Grand Canyon. It’s a sight everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. If you leave Phoenix early in the morning, you can make it to the Grand Canyon with plenty of time to take one of the legendary mule rides into the Canyon.

There are plenty of fantastic lodges in Grand Canyon villages, or you can pitch a tent at one of the 4 developed campgrounds that allow vehicles.

And on to Vegas

After you’ve gaped at the natural beauty of the canyon carved over the course of millennia by the Colorado River, you’ll make the 4-hour drive west to the most artificial city in the country, the iconic Las Vegas. Even non-golfers and non-gamblers will be awed by the spectacle of Sin City.

First timers should check out the High Roller at the Linq, a giant Ferris Wheel featuring a half-hour ride in a fully enclosed pod that takes you 550 feet in the air and provides incredible views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Shadow Creek Golf Course

You’ll want to be sure you’re staying at an MGM resort, and be there on a weekday. Why? You need to play Shadow Creek Golf Course.

Shadow Creek was the site of The Match between Tiger and Phil in 2018, but prior to that spotlight, it was already well established as a true bucket-list course, specifically because of the amazing fairways, where golfers would come to practice & analyze their swings. Originally an invite-only club, it’s now available Monday thru Thursday to anyone staying at a Vegas MGM resort, who’s willing to pay $500-600 to experience it. And it’s worth it. A Tom Fazio design that reportedly cost $60 million to complete, it’s a lush oasis in the middle of the desert.

It’s completely out of place, with its 21,000 imported trees, lush fairways, and babbling creeks contributing to a beautiful, surreal round of golf. It’s very non-Vegas in a very Vegas way. Yes, that makes no sense, but neither does Shadow Creek. And you’ll be glad you played it.

Back to Nature

The classic next stop would be LA, but we’re going to postpone that in favor of looping around to Sequoia National Park to take in the majesty of California’s magnificent trees. You can spend the day driving through the park and along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, a 50-mile route that can take half a day to navigate because of its numerous incredible photo ops. It’s worth the extra time to stop and hike to the breathtaking Grizzly Falls.

You may need a breather after the madness of Vegas, so a night or two in a lodge or one of its numerous campground options is recommended. The General Sherman Tree is a must-do photo op. Measuring 275 feet high and over 36 feet in diameter, the sheer size of the historic tree is humbling. Lines for photo ops can be long, so bring a snack and some patience.

The 2-mile hike and then 400 steps to the top of Moro Rock is also well worth your time, providing mind-blowing views of the Great Western Divide at the summit.

Hollywood, here we come

After the breather and beauty of Sequoia National Park, Los Angeles is just a few hours due south. Golfers will drop off the non-golfers in LA for sightseeing and continue an hour south to Monarch Beach Golf Links for a gorgeous oceanside golf experience. While Monarch Beach is a bit of “a tale of two nines”, the front nine will stick in your memory for its incredible oceanfront holes. I’d love to see them swap the nines, so you play the inland nine before making the turn to a remarkable stretch of holes.

As it is, the opening 5 holes are truly great golf. The dogleg third, a short par 4 at the edge of the ocean, is a stunner. Followed by two beautiful par 3s, it’s worth the price of admission alone.

Los Angeles Activities

And Los Angeles is an adventure unto itself. Tour Beverly Hills and watch for stars, spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland, check out Santa Monica Pier, or just go to the beach!

If you’d rather play golf closer to the city than Monarch Beach or want to save a bit of cash after the pricey Shadow Creek round, there are several quality municipal courses that shouldn’t be overlooked. Balboa at Sepulveda in Encino is the best of these, always in good condition and with enough interesting holes to keep your appetite whetted until the final stop on your road trip.

San Diego

A scant two hours south of Los Angeles (assuming you don’t leave during rush hour), San Diego is home to Torrey Pines Golf Course, one of the best municipal golf destinations in the world. Home to the Farmers Insurance Open each year as well as numerous major championships (who could forget Tiger Woods’ 2008 US Open victory at Torrey Pines), Torrey Pines is one of the best public golf destinations in the world.

3 Golf Courses at Torrey Pines

Both the North and South Courses are incredible golf experiences, though the South course may have some course construction impacting your round as they prepare for the 2021 US Open. You’ll recognize both golf courses as they’re both used for the Farmers Insurance Open each year. The course is known as a get-together for senior golfers to meet & greet

The clifftop courses provide such gorgeous views that non-golfers may want to come along just for the ride. The North Course is regarded as slightly easier, but both present big challenges to the average golfer, with tight fairways and fast, complex greens. Make sure you select tee boxes that accurately reflect your skill level to get the best experience: playing the courses at too long a yardage can turn a lovely walk into a difficult slog.

The course is always in perfect condition, with lush fairways and slick greens. It’s a beautiful way to end a once-in-a-lifetime golf road trip.

San Diego Activities

But San Diego has a lot to offer beyond one of the best public golf facilities in the world! The San Diego Zoo is regarded as the best in the world. Undersea life fans can visit SeaWorld and catch the legendary killer whale shows featuring Shamu. The Mission Beach boardwalk is a beautiful oceanfront stroll with amusement parks and bars aplenty, as well as bike rentals and surfing classes. Or book an offshore experience fishing or whale-watching as the giant underwater mammals migrate in the Pacific Ocean.

But you’ll probably leave that to the non-golfers on the trip and head back to Torrey Pines for one more glorious round before you have to get back to real life.

Guest Author: Jordan Fuller is a golf enthusiast with over 25 years of experience. On his free time, he coaches new golfers on how to best improve their swing. He’s also been passionate about travel, specifically when it plans trips to visit multiple new golf courses. His ultimate goal is to visit all Top 100 Golf Courses in the USA.

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Plus, vacationing in Las Vegas with kids is not as unusual as you may think it is. There are lots of parents out there that want to go to Vegas but have no one to leave their kids with, so they take them.

After being stationed a few years in Vegas with lots of other families I can assure you that there is plenty of stuff to do for kids and families. Some of the best stuff for kids will be on the strip, but more often than not it will be off the strip. 

9 Tips for Visiting Las Vegas with Kids

1. Rent a car

You will want to rent a car because many kid-friendly activities are not within walking distance like the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. 

If you do not want to rent a car Lyft is available. Use my Lyft invite for a $18 credit!

There are cabs available too, but after being ripped off by two cab drivers in Vegas my advice is to avoid them. 

2. Avoid the strip

Keep the kids off the strip as much as possible. Find a different way to get around: rental car, monorail, taxi, or anything that keeps them off the strip. Once they are walking down the strip there is no telling what they may see. Things my kids have seen are Mickey Mouse getting drunk, stripper cards, and barely dressed women. I was stunned when a man walked up to my nine-year-old and handed him a small card with a naked woman on it. They don’t care if it’s a kid, so the best thing to do is avoid them completely. 

3. Make the Pool a Priority

Stay at a hotel, VRBO, or casino with a cool pool like the Golden Nugget. Vegas is hot and a great way to cool down is to hit the pool. (Make sure the pool will be open when you visit before you book!) There are also two water parks in Vegas that are both great. Best Pools in Las Vegas

4. Stick to Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Eat at Kid Friendly restaurants in Las Vegas to avoid to see lots of drunkenness. Most people come to Vegas to party and they party hard. It can be so tempting to take your kids to a restaurant you hear about and I certainly have multiple times. If you want to take them to a popular restaurant where people will be partying just take them for lunch or an early dinner.

If you are trying to stick to a budget find places where kids can eat free in Las Vegas or hit up a kid-friendly happy hour.

5. Shopping Centers with Playgrounds

If you are going to take kids shopping pick out a place that has a playground and splash pad so they can play while you get your shopping on, like Tivoli Village or Town Square. This is a great way to make sure your kids stay happy which means you can actually shop. 

24 Fantastic Activities for Teenagers in Las Vegas

6. Lots and Lots of Water

Make sure each of your kids has plenty of water. Las Vegas is extremely dry and kids can dehydrate quickly. The water tastes like crap in Las Vegas so take water flavor mixers with you. I recommend bringing reusable water bottles with you so you can constantly keep them filled and always have water on hand. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than dehydrated kids. 

7. Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Kids will also need a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen. Remember to reapply sunscreen at least once during the day even if you are just going in and out of places. If you are at the pool you will want to be more diligent. It takes little to no time for kids to burn. If the kids are willing make them wear a hat as well. The more you can do to protect them from the sun the easier the next day will be. 

8. Get a Babysitter

Take advantage of the safe childcare options available. A few of the Station casinos have a day care facility called Kids Quest. I’ve used the one that used to be at the Palms and feel comfortable recommending it. Kids Quest is open daily 365 days a year and offers secure hourly child care and entertainment center for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. 

15 Fun Things to do with Toddlers in Las Vegas

9. Find Kid-Friendly Shows

Take them to an age-appropriate show like Mystere, Beatles Love, or one of the pet shows. Kids LOVE pet shows. (KA is too dark for kids, they will fall asleep. I know this because I fell asleep during it.) Top 9 Las Vegas Shows

5 Days in Las Vegas with Kids

For the most part, if you just don’t walk up and down the strip you will be able to avoid your kids seeing certain things you would rather them not see like Mickey Mouse getting drunk or half-naked ladies. If you want to see the front of a certain casino, like the Bellagio, drive over to it and walk out front instead of walking over from another casino.

Read Next:

Las Vegas On A Budget

17 Kid Friendly Activities in Las Vegas

24 Fun Activities for Teens in Vegas

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Aliante Casino Hotel Spa

Aliante is a hotel and casino with multiple bars, restaurants, and a large movie theater in North Las Vegas about a 30-minute drive from the Las Vegas strip. It used to be part of the Station casinos that you find throughout Las Vegas. Station casinos tend to be cheaper overall. Their restaurants are more affordable, especially their buffet. We used to eat breakfast here all the time because it was $4.99 for adults and even less for kids. Kids 3 and under eat free at the buffet. Their nightly rates also tend to be substantially more affordable then on the strip.

They have a pretty decent pool and hot tub here as well. I had the opportunity to go to the pool while my brother in law was staying here. They have waiters that will take your order from your chair. They also have complimentary water.

I did not get any picture of the rooms here, but they are quite nice as well. As far as casinos go Aliante is a newer hotel and has the nicest rooms of all the former Station casino hotels.

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Half Off Tickets In Las Vegas

I’m guessing you are like me and would love half-price tickets to shows in Las Vegas without standing in line? There are two half-price ticket stands in Las Vegas if you do not mind waiting in line. To find cheaper Vegas tickets and potentially half priced tickets without standing in line try one of these discount websites!

TodayTix has awesome deals for show tickets in Las Vegas. Some of the tickets are even more than half off. This is currently my favorite website for finding deals in Las Vegas. I am showing some of the family-type shows you can see in the widget, but they have lots of other types of shows as well.

Free show tickets in Las Vegas – If you want completely free tickets I suggest signing up for a timeshare presentation. This is only worth it if you are getting expensive tickets out of the deal. I would not do this for tickets under $100. Often times, they will give you enough tickets for your whole group just to get you into the presentation. I once got 6 free show tickets doing this.

Groupon – Surprisingly Groupon runs deals on shows all the time. 

Where to Party in Las Vegas

Okay, I am going to go out on a limb here and guess that you are probably in Las Vegas to party. I want to help you out so here are some other articles I’ve written that will hopefully help you plan your trip, including tips on what to wear if you’re a lady.

How to find a club promoter, skip the lines, and get if FREE <- My club promoter’s phone number is in this post!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Cosmopolitan <- My favorite place to stay

The Palazzo <- My second favorite place to stay

Golden Nugget <- if you’re on a budget

The Luxor<- if you are out of all other options

Trump <- smoke-free

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Most of Firefly’s menu consists of tapas, small plates.  Their bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with cheese and almonds are to die for.  If for no other reason go here and eat them; you will thank me!

 They have a variety of hot and cold tapas to choose from including the Spanish staple Patatas Bravas.  If you go during happy hour you can get half-price pitchers of Sangria or Mojitos.  The pitchers are huge. Oh, and it’s kid-friendly.  My kids love it there because they get to pick out lots of things to try.  Usually a grilled brie sandwich with a cup of tomato soup.

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The best Thai food in Vegas can be found at Lotus of Siam off of Sahara. Every item on the menu is delicious. Don’t let the outside of the building or location fool you, it’s a beautiful restaurant inside.

Update July 2014: I had already declared this to be the best Thai food in Las Vegas way back in 2011. Well, apparently everyone agrees with me. Since then Lotus of Siam has been voted as one of the top 3 restaurants in Las Vegas by other Las Vegas chefs. It has also been declared one of the best Thai restaurants in the nation. Their chef Saipin Chutima won the James Beard award and has been featured on Top Chefs Masters! So, there you go….turns out I make great recommendations!! Ha!

Fried Rice 

Drunken Noodles

In a city where spectacle often overshadows substance, Lotus of Siam emerges as a beacon of authenticity, serving up soul-stirring Thai cuisine with the flair of a high-roller hitting the jackpot. Each bite is a revelation, an intimate dance of flavors that whispers secrets of distant lands and ancient recipes, all while seated comfortably in the lap of the desert. So, as we bid adieu to this sanctuary of spice and everything nice, I’m reminded that true luxury isn’t just about the glitz and glam; it’s about moments of unexpected delight and dishes that linger in your memory long after the last bite. To Lotus of Siam, the hidden gem in a city of lights, I tip my hat. Here’s where the heart beats in Las Vegas, where every meal is a royal flush.

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