Las Vegas Essentials

Check out these famous landmarks and quirky local hot spots

By Kate Silver, FrontDoor.com | Published: 11/20/2008

Red Rock National Conservation area is a popular destination for hiking and climbing.

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ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

Red Rock National Conservation Area, 1000 Scenic Drive
Brilliant red sandstone formations offer ample hiking and climbing opportunities. Go during the week if possible. Weekends get crowded.

HAVE FUN FOR FREE

Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. South
This maze of fresh flowers, fountains and displays makes for fine horticultural art and changes with the seasons. Step outside and take in the Bellagio Fountains, a romantic aquatic ballet, and you've discovered the best free date in town.

GAMBLE WITH THE LOCALS

Red Rock Casino Resort Spa, 11011 Charleston Blvd.
Red Rock has the glitz and glam of the Strip with the convenience of the ?burbs. Aside from gaming, they also have a movie theater, bowling and a variety of good restaurants.

MEET NEW PEOPLE

Downtown Cocktail Room, 111 Las Vegas Blvd. South
This speakeasy-style lounge is a hot spot for 20-, 30-, and 40-somethings who want an urban scene. Stop in Thursday nights for LoPro, a local professionals mixer from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.

TAKE A SIGNIFICANT OTHER

Peppermill Fireside Lounge, 2985 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Between the firepool, the cushy circular seats, elegant servers and ever-present mirrors, this IS Las Vegas circa 1970. Avoid on weekends when it's packed with tourists.

ENJOY GREAT VIEWS OF THE CITY

Mix at Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Altitude and violet martinis make for a great combo at Mix Las Vegas, located on the 64th floor of Mandalay Bay. Be sure and take a look at the bathrooms, which also have stunning views, thanks to their floor-to-ceiling windows.

TAKE THE KIDS

Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd.
This ecological world of fun pays tribute to the birthplace of Las Vegas while keeping its eye on sustaining the future. Kids love the playground and interactive displays. Enjoy the Thursday afternoon farmers market when the weather's nice.

TAKE FIDO

Mount Charleston, off 95 North at State Route 157
At 12,000 feet, Mount Charleston is the Kilimanjaro of Las Vegas. It's 30 degrees cooler than Las Vegas and the ideal wooded summer spot for a canine workout. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

TAKE A DAY TRIP

Hoover Dam, 35 miles from Las Vegas just past Boulder City
It's no surprise Hoover Dam was named one of the Top 10 Construction Achievements of the 20th century. Take the Dam Tour and visit the bowels of the massive structure while learning about the dam's impact on hydrating the Southwest.

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