Las Vegas: Beyond the Strip

Often called "America's Playground" or "Sin City," Las Vegas is an iconic U.S. City known for its over the top decadence. The Las Vegas Strip is all about neon lights, casinos, lavish hotels, and restaurants helmed by some of the world's best chefs. Whether you're heading to Las Vegas to celebrate, gamble (just a little) take in a Cirque du Soleil show, or catch your favorite musician's residency, you'll find it here. On this trip to Vegas, we use it as a base to explore the city and surrounding areas. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Best time to visit: While there's no "bad" time to go to Sin City, keep in mind that daytime temperatures in the summer climb well into the 90s and 100s which can be a deterrent (unless you're planning to spend time poolside or in an air-conditioned casino). Weather-wise, the best months to go to Las Vegas are March, April, May, October, and November. August, the hottest month in Las Vegas, is one of the least expensive times to go.

PHL Airport

First up, our flight to Vegas. The reason for this trip was because at almost anytime of year you can find a reasonable roundtrip fare from any major east or west coast city. On this trip we decided to skip the strip and instead head for the lustful lights and magic of Old Vegas. Having only 2 nights in town we decided to make the best of it. Coming in hot on a night flight and starving from the anemic airline offerings (a tiny bag of peanuts) we were HANGRY. The neon In-N-Out Burger sign draws us in like moths to a flame. Like a beacon of light, In-N-Out Burger restaurants are sacred to my palette. After 2 double doubles with all the fixings I struggle to make it to our home base, the historical and family-owned El Cortez Hotel. We chose this spot and area due to it’s homage to the history of Old Vegas. We like a little grit and the chance to see some locals in action. Insider tip: don't skip the late night $5 prime rib.

In-N-Out Burger, LV

Things to do in Vegas: Before there were pretend volcanoes and dancing fountains, or the highest Ferris Wheel in the world, there was the five block area in downtown Las Vegas that was the center of gambling in the United States: Fremont Street, or as many refer to it as a the Old Las Vegas strip.

Neon Museum, LV

The Neon Museum: Make sure to visit this museum at night or golden hour as to get the full effect of the iconic Las Vegas signs, aglow in the "neon boneyard" or North Gallery, where a nightly show brings the signs to life. Guided tours are worth the upgraded price in order to learn some of the incredible history housed here. The Mob museum: taking its cues from the Entertainment Capital of the World, The Mob Museum seamlessly melds intrigue with explanation through four expertly-curated floors of interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, engaging artifacts and pop culture lore.

Hell's Kitchen, LV

Must Eat: Gordan Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen is more than a tourist trap! Walking in you'll feel like you're entering straight onto a set of Gordon Ramsay's TV show, from the larger-than-life open kitchen, to the chefs dressed as "teams" in red and blue. Celebrating something special? The tasting menu boasting classic Ramsay dishes and expertly paired wines was 100% worth it to us. However you order, don’t miss out on the Beef Wellington. Hands down one of my top 5 favorite meals of all time.

Donut Bar, LV

Donut Bar: Don't let the humble facade of this donut shop on the backside of Fremont Street fool you. Locals belly up to the coffee counter to start their day and visitors (like us) know that calories don't count on vacation. Serving up specialty donuts (like lemon and pistachio) the fan-favorites such as the Homer, Nutella-filled, and Strawberries & Cream sell out daily. Insider Tip: go early (or late, depending on what time you turn in).

Donut Bar, LV

Oyster Bar: One of the only seafood restaurants in Las Vegas open round-the-clock, this hidden-gem offers live-action dishes prepared before your eyes—including steamed clams, freshly shucked oysters, homemade chowders, and seafood pastas. Whether you’re seeking soul-warming gumbo and a great glass of wine or fresh-as-ever oysters and an ice-cold beer, the first-come-first-serve oyster bar restaurant has something fresh for you. From the lively atmosphere (right in the middle of the action on the casino floor!) to the area’s freshest seafood selections, it’s no wonder locals voted this oyster house the Best of Las Vegas “Best Seafood Restaurant” and “Best Shrimp Cocktail”.

Atomic Liquors, LV

Vegas Dive Bars: The first licensed bar in Vegas, Atomic Liquors, is a beloved local watering hole. In its heyday, Atomic had a local, working class clientele that was bolstered by regular visits from celebrities looking to avoid the attention they attracted on the Strip or downtown. The likes of the Rat Pack, Barbara Streisand, the Smothers Brothers, Clint Eastwood and other notable characters could be seen enjoying their favorite beverage and playing a friendly game of pool after their shows or productions. Barbra Streisand even noted in her book that she was a regular, stopping in on every trip to shoot pool and chat with her friend Stella. Atomic is open until 2am and draws quite a crowd of casino workers looking to enjoy themselves after their shift.

Dinos: One of Vegas' oldest dive bars with the fitting tag-line, getting Las Vegas drunk since 1962. It's not fancy but it's a whole lot of fun. This is a place where the bartenders vote on a "Drunk of the Month" from amongst the regulars.

Stagedoor: The drinks are cheap and the machines are loose 24/7. Also having a 100 year lease on lockdown helps with the prices. Stop by for great local and cover bands, cheap beer, and heavy pours.

Zion National Park, Springdale, UT

Looking to escape Las Vegas?

Just a two-hour road trip away is Zion National Park. Where you can follow the same paths where Indigenous Americans and pioneers alike walked. Gaze up at massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that soar into a brilliant blue sky. Experience wilderness in a narrow slot canyon. Zion’s unique array of plants and animals will enchant you as you absorb the rich history of the past and enjoy the excitement of present day adventures. This place is a must visit if you’re looking to check off that National Park list.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley Of Fire State Park - I would be remiss if I didn’t mention this place. Probably the best surprise of the trip. Just beyond Las Vegas stands an otherworldly landscape of epic proportions. Some gaze into the rock formations and see fire. It feels like you're stepping onto Mars. Whatever the truth may be, Valley of Fire State Park is a place for the adventurer at heart.

Hope you enjoyed this whirlwind trip to Vegas and beyond. After you put it all on red, remember where your exit doors are and thanks for Carrying On With Chris!