Christmas & Holiday Things To Do in Las Vegas

Christmas & Holiday Things To Do in Las Vegas

Gift Of Lights
Photographer: Derek Thomson | Source: Unsplash

When most think of Christmas, Vegas is not what often comes to mind. Yes, we've got parties galore and buffets on top of buffets, but did you know we've got some holiday cheer too? Check out these Christmas & holiday events happening in Las Vegas this season!

Annual Glittering Lights Display
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Until January 5th • $20 Per Vehicle

Drive your car through tunnels of lights and past displays of more than 3 million lights. You can hitch a ride with Santa on his tram, and enjoy kettle corn and hot chocolate for an extra cost.

Photographer: Travel LocalLV | Source: Unsplash

Grab Selfies at Caesar's Forum Shops

Caesar's Palace decks out its Forum Shops every year, making it a destination for those holiday insta-pics! Check out it's a 40-foot tall fully decorated tree, it's 8-ft tall toy soldiers, giant wreath, and thousands of lights!

Through the Window of Christmas
Photographer: Tim Mossholder | Source: Unsplash

Holiday Parade in Summerlin
Until January 20th • Free Event

Not wanting to head to the Las Vegas Strip for holiday festivities? Check out the Park Centre in Summerlin every Friday & Saturday night at 6 pm for its holiday parade! Children can meet Santa by the Macy's, and make a stop by the Rock Rink for some ice skating!

Photographer: Kelli McClintock | Source: Unsplash

Ice Skating at the Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan
Until January 5th • Free Admission (all-day skating begins at $25 with discounts for locals, guests, and military)

Enjoy stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip while having fun on a skating rink. You can also enjoy cocktails and roasting s'mores by the fire pit! On Mondays and Tuesdays at 6:30 pm, skate while classic holiday movies are played on their giant digital marquee!

Cocktails at a Holiday Pop-Up Bar
The Sand Dollar Lounge
Until Tuesday, December 31st • Free Admission

The Sand Dollar Lounge has transformed into "Miracle on Spring Mountain" and is serving up holiday-themed craft cocktails daily from 4 pm – 4 am. Get into the jolly spirit, and show up in some festive wear!

Christmas Town
Cowabunga Bay, Henderson
Until December 31st • Admission Begins at $20

Every year, Cowabunga Bay transforms into Christmas Town! You can sled down a 100-foot snow hill, ride on the Polar Express, dive into a snowball pit, and more!

Festive Floral Display at the Bellagio
Until January 4th • Free Admission

The conservatory at the Bellagio is always featuring a stunning themed display, and of course, they're going to bring some holiday cheer! The conservatory is currently filled with a 42-foot tall tree, and carnation floral designs shaped like polar bears, elves, and more!

Christmas at Fremont Street
Fremont Street, Downtown Las Vegas
December 12th • Free Admission

Fremont Street switches into holiday mode with its 50-ft Christmas tree, photos with Santa, and its newly-renovated overhead video-screen canopy!

Ethel M Chocolate Factory Cactus Garden
Until January 5th • Free Admission

Check out this 3-acre cactus garden decked out for the holidays with over one million lights! Photos with Santa are also available for purchase on certain days, food trucks will have dinner & dessert, and there is an outdoor movie theater playing classic holiday clips!

The 5 Best Scenic Routes Near Las Vegas

The 5 Best Scenic Routes Near Las Vegas

From our Arizona trip last summer with my wife.
Photographer: Yasir Eryilmaz | Source: Unsplash

Las Vegas is in a valley, in the middle of a desert. Yes, we know this, you know this, but did you know that Vegas is surrounded by scenic drives that will surely take you on an adventure? Check out the top 5 scenic routes around Las Vegas!

1. Red Rock Canyon

1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161

Red Desert Rocks
Photographer: Olenka Kotyk | Source: Unsplash

This one is a no brainer, they even have a road called the scenic loop! Red Rock Canyon is full of beautiful and interesting rock formations. While on the scenic loop, you can cruise on by or you can pull off at any of the numerous lookout points or even head out for a scenic hike! If you're able to head out there an hour before the sun sets, you'll be rewarded with even more stunning colors. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as burros and lizards! For more secluded spots, get yourself a Jeep rental and check out some of the off-road trails available.

2. Lake Mead National Park – North Shore Road

4910-4952 E Lake Mead Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89015

An aerial view to Lake Mead.
Photographer: Nikola Majksner | Source: Unsplash

This is one of the best routes around Lake Mead! It stretches for almost fifty miles, and winds its way from housing, through historic geologic periods, to stunning rock formations, and of course some wonderful views of Lake Mead!

3. Boulder City & The Hoover Dam

Route 93 through Boulder City | Hoover Dam: Continue on the Great Basin Hwy and follow signs for the Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam near Boulder City Nevada, 45 minutes from Las Vegas.
Photographer: David Lusvardi | Source: Unsplash

The Hoover Dam is an iconic architectural feat that is a must-see when you're in Las Vegas! The winding route will take you through canyons, rock formations, and there are plenty of scenic overlook spots for you to take an Instagram pic at! While you're by the Hoover Dam, stop by downtown Boulder City to check out its historic buildings, antique shops, and even delicious local restaurants! If you're looking to explore this side of town, we highly recommend Hoover Dam Scooter Tours! You will get your very own scooter and tour guide to cruise around the area with!

4. Valley of Fire State Park – White Domes Road

29450 Valley of Fire Hwy, Overton, NV 89040

Valley of Fire
Photographer: Cara Fuller | Source: Unsplash

White Domes Road is 5.7 miles that will take you to see tall ridges of red sandstone. Drivers will pass numerous postcard-worthy vistas surrounded by vibrant rock formations. Once you're finished with the White Domes Road, make sure to check out the main scenic loop at the Valley of Fire State Park to see more stunning rock formations and views!

5. Lee Canyon

6725 Lee Canyon Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89124

This route will take you through the spring mountains, a vast difference from the Las Vegas Valley. You'll encounter winding roads up the mountainside, fresh pine trees, and even a variety of wildlife! When driving on the lee canyon route, there are many different lookout points and areas where you can spot coyotes, wild horses, desert bighorn sheep, and much more! Depending on the time of the year, it might get a bit chilly so dress accordingly!

There you have it, the 5 Best Scenic Routes Near Las Vegas, so next time you're itching to escape the famous Las Vegas Strip & casinos, just jump in a vehicle and take a short road trip!

Where to Celebrate National Pasta Day in Orlando

Where to Celebrate National Pasta Day in Orlando

At AAMP Agency | Adventure & Activity Marketing Pros we're really just a team of people obsessed with anything tourism & food-related. So if you're in Orlando for National Pasta Day (October 17th) here is where you need to drown yourself in delicious, saucy carbs. If you go for a brisk walk after, it's just carb loading right? Make Michael Scott proud!

Trevi Pasta

2120 Edgewater Dr
Orlando, FL 32804

This hole-in-the-wall spot is insanely loved by the locals of Orlando, and rightfully so. Earning the #1 spot on the best pasta places on Yelp, Trevi Pasta will transport you to Italy. Its quaint interior, tiny Italian market, creamy gelato, and fresh, handmade pasta will put you in carb heaven.

Ciao Italia Ristorante Italiano

6149 Westwood Blvd
Orlando, FL 32821

Photo from Yelp

Romantic ambiance + authentic pasta = perfect spot for National Pasta Day!

At first glance from the outside, one tends to think it's another random pasta joint that's tucked away behind a sports bar. However, once you step through their doors, linen-covered tables and classic Italian decor set the mood. The menu is extensive and features a variety of classic dishes!

Cala La Pasta

Photo from Cala La Pasta Facebook Page

Want pasta on the go? Cala La Pasta is your stop! This food truck sets the breaks in different locations and whips up delicious bowls of pasta! They update their Facebook with their current location, so find them here.

So we gave you three of the best pasta spots in Orlando, Florida, one for breakfast, one for lunch, and one for dinner. Which one will you be heading to first? Let us know in the comments!

AAMP Agency | Adventure & Activity Marketing Pros on National Pasta Day
Go Bowling with Sea Creatures at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill

Go Bowling with Sea Creatures at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill

Photo from Bass Pro Shops

Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl & Grill is a one-of-a-kind attraction that is suitable for all ages! So if you're looking for a fun, kid-friendly activity that is indoors, or even a place to meet friends for a drink – this is the place to do it! Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl & Grill has a handful of locations from Bridgeport, CT, to San Jose, CA, to Colorado Springs!

Photo by Bass Pro Shops

Each location has many bowling lanes available, and they all offer a unique underwater ocean experience! The “Dock” wooden lanes feature underwater scenery of sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and other saltwater species!

Photo by Bass Pro Shop

You will find bowling balls that feature octopus, mermaids, camouflage and more! The decor features hand painted murals, and fish hanging from the ceiling – it brings it all together and provides a whimsical under the sea feeling!

Photo by Bass Pro Shops

Don't forget to check out their nautical themed bar with tropical drinks, and their lengthy menu filled with classics & fresh seafood dishes. At Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl & Grill, everyone in your party will be as happy as a clam!

Click here to find a location near you!

Top 4 Burger Spots in Oahu for National Cheeseburger Day

Top 4 Burger Spots in Oahu for National Cheeseburger Day

Why Cheeseburgers in US are so tasty?! This one is from ShakeShack.
Photographer: Thomas Habr | Source: Unsplash

Everyone loves a good burger, whether you’re into beef burgers, vegetarian burgers, whatever it may be – a slab of sustenance put in between two buns and loaded with fresh toppings always creates something magical. We’re big fans of traveling, but we always find our way back to Hawaii, and while you wouldn’t normally think to get a burger in this tropical state – here’s where to get some damn good ones while you’re in Oahu for National Cheeseburger Day!

Seven Brothers

56-565 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Oahu, HI 96731-2202

Seven Brothers has multiple locations, and they serve a mean burger. The photo below speaks for itself! Try the Paniolo burger that has onion rings, grilled pineapple, bacon, American cheese, and BBQ sauce!

Seven Brothers

Mahaloha Burger

2233 Kalakaua Ave # B9 2233 Kalakaua Avenue B9, upper Floor food court, Honolulu, Oahu, HI 96815-5200

Mahaloha has a three locations on Oahu, each one serving up burgers that everyone can enjoy. Try their Loco Moco burger (our favorite) that has an egg and gravy, or even their Mahi Mahi burger!

Loco Moco Burger | Mahaloha Burgers

Diamond Head Market & Grill

3158 Monsarrat Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815

After a visit or hike around Diamond Head, grab a quick bite to eat at this local spot! Their burgers are delicious, and their menu features twists on a burger such as a Kim chee burger, Teri burger, and more. Don't forget to grab a scone or dessert for after!

Rock Island Cafe

1911 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815

Come for the ambiance, stay for the food! Rock Island Cafe is an insta-worthy spot with it's 50s inspired theme. You'll find Betty Boop, Elvis Presley, as well as classic burgers & shakes!

So there you have it, our favorite 4 places in Oahu for National Cheeseburger Day! Might we suggest you visit all four in one day? Burger for breakfast, burger for second breakfast, burger for lunch, and a burger for dinner!

Dog Friendly Places in Las Vegas for National Dog Day

Dog Friendly Places in Las Vegas for National Dog Day

 

So you’re headed to Las Vegas but don’t want to leave your dog behind? Don’t worry, as dog owners ourselves we understand the struggle. Which is why we’ve picked our favorite Dog Friendly Places in Las Vegas for National Dog Day!

Where to eat

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

 

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

6509 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119

Monday – Friday • 11 am – Midnight | Sat & Sun • 9 am – Midnight

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar is the perfect spot for you and your fur-kid to have a date night or even a brunch! They’ve got outdoor seating and understand the lives of dog owners. With trendy menu items like Bacon Candy, and a doggy menu, it’s a no-brainer as to why you’d want to take your beloved pets here.

Park on Fremont

506 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

Mon – Wed • 4 pm – 11 pm | Thu • 9:00 am – 11:00 pm | Fri • 9 am – 1 am | Sat • 10 am – 1 am | Sun • 10 am – 11 pm

Park on Fremont has the perfect outdoor dining area for you and fido to sit back, enjoy delicious food & drinks, and people watch together! Don’t miss out on dishes like the Peppercorn Avocado Burger available for lunch & dinner, or the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes available during their brunch hours!

PublicUS

 

PublicUS

1126 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

All Week • 7 am – 5 pm

At PublicUS not only are dogs allowed outside, but they’re allowed inside as well! PublicUs offers amazing tasty juices, vegan and vegetarian options, as well as freshly-brewed coffee.

Where to stay

Caesar’s Palace

 

Caesar’s Palace

3570 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109

The famous Caesar’s Palace has a PetStay program that includes in-room amenities as well as additional services like grooming, walking, and veterinary care. They even have specified pet relief areas and dog walking routes!

The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa

 

The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa

160 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

The Westin resides not too far from all of the Las Vegas happenings, and allows pets up to 50 lbs! Designated pet-friendly rooms come with all of your doggy needs such as a pet bed, bowls, and waste bags.

The Vdara

 

The Vdara

The Vdara is a fantastic hotel for anyone interested in a non-gaming, non-smoking hotel! Not only that but pups are welcome and they get their own doggy-dining menu, rooms equipped with your dog essentials, and the Vdara has a 24hr dog park!

Where to play

Dog Fancier‘s Park

 

Dog Fancier’s Park

5800 E. Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89122

All Week • 6 am – 11 pm

This dog park boasts a large, fenced in field perfect for those high-energy dogs that want to run and socialize. Only about 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, it’s a nice break for you and your dog.

Red Rock Canyon

 

Photographer: Adam Skalecki | Source: Unsplash

1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161

At Red Rock Canyon, pets must be leashed and hours vary depending on the season. There are a wide variety of hiking trails perfect for you and fido. From a casual stroll, to adventurous trails, to a scenic driving route – it’s no wonder Red Rock Canyon is a local favorite!

Mount Charleston

 

Mt Charleston

2525 Kyle Canyon Rd, Mt Charleston, NV 89124

Mount Charleston is the place to go if you and your dog are looking to connect with nature! Hiking trails, camping, lodging, and even snow in the winter – Mt. Charleston has everything an outdoor enthusiast would love! Also, it has much cooler temperatures than the rest of Las Vegas, making it a safe spot to take your dog during the summer months.

So what spots in Las Vegas will you be bringing your beloved dog to? Let us know in the comments (pictures of dogs are always appreciated too)!