There is not one more entertaining place on the planet than Las Vegas. The most famous attraction, of course, is the Strip, but there are many other things to do that do not involve cards, chips, or house money. In this issue of John Eric Home, we head to Las Vegas to be entertained…
The Las Vegas Strip is what most people associate with the city of Las Vegas. Best viewed at night, the city comes alive with thousands of illuminated neon lights; the views are themselves entertaining.
But it is not just at night that the casinos shine, and it is not just gambling that they are all about – the architecture of the behemoth hotels and casinos are themselves unique and many offer entertaining attractions.
Looking for an undersea adventure? Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium houses over 2,000 sea animals, including sharks, giant rays, endangered sea turtles, and even a Komodo dragon. Experience the life of an Aquarist with the Animal Encounters program, where you can feed the stingrays and crabs. If you are feeling more adventurous, take a virtual, 3-D journey to the South Pacific, where you can swim with humpback whales and dive with exotic sharks in the Bahamas.
Sharking isn’t your thing? No worries. The Paris Hotel is one of the best-known hotels in the area, thanks to its iconic replica of the Eiffel Tower that stretches into the Las Vegas skyline. In the resort, you’ll find a selection of French shops and even a recreation of the Paris Opera House. The Eiffel Tower is forty-six stories high about half the height of the original. The observation deck offers incredible views of the city.
Continuing with a European vibe, head over to the Venetian Hotel. It’s one of the grandest resorts in Las Vegas and is popular with couples on honeymoon or just for a romantic getaway. Inside the hotel, a shopping arcade has been designed to resemble the streets of Venice. Some of the top attractions in Venice have been recreated in the hotel, such as the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. One of the most famous features of the hotel is the Gondola Rides along the canals. If the romance bug is hitting you, after disembarking, there are wedding chapels nearby.
Of course, the Venetian is also home to the magical Sphere and everything about it is mind-blowing. It’s the world’s largest spherical structure – an electrified ball that measures 516 feet wide and 366 feet tall – which is covered in a wraparound, high-resolution screen. While the Sphere is a venue for concerts and shows, it also features its own attraction, The Sphere Experience. It is a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling. Encounters with lifelike humanoid robots are common and it features a film by acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky, titled ‘Postcard from Earth.’
It’s incredible to see from various points around the Strip (though not really from the Strip; more on that later) or when you fly into Harry Reid International Airport. Inside Sphere Las Vegas is just as astonishing. It’s like a Disneyland ride meets the greatest show on Earth — a spectacle for concerts like U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere or high-def films like “Postcard From Earth.”
The gorgeous 14,000-square-foot botanical garden at the Bellagio is a nature lover’s dream, but you don’t have to be a flower aficionado to be in awe of this stunning display. Every season, it transforms before your eyes with a vibrant rainbow of color in full bloom. Over 10,000 fresh plants adorn the display, and interactive features such as the Tunnel of Love make you one with the flora. This installation also includes fountains, trellises, trees, and winding paths.
After you’ve your fill of casino attractions – and have possibly left some cash at the tables – it’s time to head up into the sky. SkyPod at the Stratosphere offers expansive views of Las Vegas. A well-known feature of the Las Vegas skyline, SkyPod boasts the tallest (1,149 feet) observation tower in the United States, a restaurant and bar, a selfie spot, and a wedding chapel. (Can’t forget Vegas’ cottage industry!) The adventurous can choose from several thrill-seeking rides, including the Big Shot, Insanity, or the X-Scream. Yes, the names say it all.
If you’re a fan of punk rock or simply looking for a unique and fascinating attraction in Las Vegas, the Punk Rock Museum is a must-visit destination. Located just off the Strip, this hidden gem showcases the rich history and culture of punk rock through a wide range of exhibits and memorabilia. Don’t miss the chance to see original instruments played by punk legends The Ramones and The Clash.
The museum also offers a dynamic and immersive experience, featuring audio and video installations that transport you back to the heyday of punk rock. Enjoy interviews and live performances from the most influential bands of the era as you explore the museum’s interactive exhibits.
Finally, visitors love the aerial view of Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon from a helicopter ride. There are several helicopter tour companies in Las Vegas offering everything from a 15-minute flip over the city of Las Vegas to longer tours that take in the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and the scenery around Las Vegas. This is a great option for people who have limited time in the area.
Viva Las Vegas!
