Las Vegas—AKA Sin City—is notorious for being a place purely meant to attract gamblers and party animals. That couldn't be farther from the truth. It's true Vegas is the place to go if you're a hardcore gambler or looking to party all night at some of the best nightclubs, but that's not all Vegas has to offer. The Vegas Strip isn't all casinos, clubs and bars (although the vast majority is). Here are ten things you can do next time you go out to Vegas:
1. The LINQ's High Roller
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Technically this can fall under partying because the ferris wheel provides an open bar inside each capsule (ticket prices vary depending on if you'd like to drink during your ride). However, if you're just looking to ride the tallest ferris wheel in the world, this is the one. The pods are enclosed with floor-to-ceiling glass that offers an amazing view of the strip whether you'd like to ride during the day or at night.
2. Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage
This attraction allows you to observe a dolphin habitat along with a lions, tigers and leopard exhibit. They offer a few different packages you can purchase—I myself had the opportunity to pet a dolphin and take a picture with it. They even offer a "Trainer For A Day" program that lets you assist the trainers and interact with the dolphins.
3. SkyJump off The Stratosphere
Are you a thrill seeker? Are you willing to jump off a tall building? Similar to bungee jumping, The Stratosphere offers SkyJump—a controlled decelerator descent. In other words, you can safely free fall off the tower with an incredible view of the strip (day or night) before your eyes as bystanders watch from below.
4. Shooting ranges
If you're a gun enthusiast then Vegas is an ideal place to visit shooting ranges because they provide a wider variety of firearms. A lot of states have strict gun laws, but Vegas has a numerous amount of ranges where you can try out firearms that are restricted in many places (such as semi-automatics).
5. Race fast cars
This option, like the SkyJumper's, appeals to the adrenaline junkies and additionally, car lovers. Vegas provides several race tracks off the strip that include exotic cars. With that said, if you'd like the opportunity to race your dream car, consider your dream a potential reality (a very short-lived reality unfortunately).
6. Helicopter tours
Just imagine how exhilarating a helicopter flight over the Strip would be. You'll receive a gorgeous view of Vegas's highlights—the Bellagio fountains, the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, the Mirage volcano, the High Roller at the LINQ, and many more.
7. Shows
There's countless of performances you can watch in Vegas—magic shows, concerts, Cirque de Soleil, burlesque, novelty acts and tons more. If you're vacationing in Vegas, you're bound to find something that peeks your interest with the amount of entertainment that's presented.
8. Fremont Street Experience
Fremont Street is an entertainment district located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. The district includes live entertainment, a zip line tour, light shows, museums, the Downtown Container Park, endless stores and restaurants—including the hospital themed restaurant the Heart Attack Grill—and so much more.
9. Bellagio's Conservatory and Botanical Garden
The Bellagio states, "Each season, the enormously talented horticulturalists and designers who make up the Bellagio Conservatory team transform this 14,000-square-foot floral playground into a showcase of the distinctive sights and colors of spring, summer, fall and winter—along with a special display for Chinese New Year." The current theme for the garden is a breathtaking aquatic scene.
10. The Spa and Salon at the Aria
Pamper yourself with a trip to the Aria's spa and salon. There's several different packages hotel guests or non-guests can purchase, but I suggest the basic daily pass which includes all-day access to the facility's outdoor infinity pool (pictured above), jacuzzis, sauna, steam room, heated stone beds and shio salt room. Additionally, you are provided with snacks and beverages, a locker, robe, slippers, plus shower and salon amenities.
