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!

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)!

Where in Las Vegas to Celebrate International Cat Day

Where in Las Vegas to Celebrate International Cat Day

At iWerx, we admit it – our staff owns more dogs than they do cats. BUT, that doesn’t stop us from loving these bean-toed creatures. If you’re a cat fanatic (no judgment here), then you need to check out these cat attractions in Las Vegas!

Hello Kitty Cafe

3782 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89109

Hours: Sun – Thurs • 11 am – 11 pm | Fri & Sat • 11 am – Midnight

Hello Kitty Cafe Las Vegas

The Hello Kitty Mobile Cafe has graced Las Vegas before, but now it’s here to stay! Located near the MGM Grand, you can grab Hello Kitty themed desserts, snacks, and drinks!

Rescued Treasures Cat Cafe

4155 N. Rancho Drive

Hours: Tues – Sat • 11 am – 6 pm | Sun • 1 pm – 6 pm

Adoptable Cats at Rescued Treasures Cat Cafe

Las Vegas just got a cat cafe, and the best part – all of the cats are up for adoption! So, if you fall in love with kittens like Jewel or Diamond, you can apply to become their human! When visiting Rescued Treasures Cat Cafe, be prepared to be overwhelmed with their sheer cuteness while you enjoy a beverage and snack. For $10, you get one hour of cat play and 90 minutes for $14. Or if you’re a Vegas local, you might as well just buy a membership. 

Lion Habitat Ranch

382 Bruner Ave, Henderson, NV 89044

Hours: 10 am – 2 pm • Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Vegas is where you go big, or go home, right? So why not go see some big cats? At the Lion Habitat Ranch, you can tour the facilities and experience the lions from afar. However, they also have awesome tours such as a Behind the Scenes Tours, and option to feed the animals, and Feasts with the Beasts!

Will you be hitting up one of these attractions? Perhaps all three? Whatever you do today, happy International Cat Day from all of us at AAMP Agency | Adventure & Activity Marketing Pros!

10 Extreme Tours In Las Vegas Every Adrenaline Junkie Needs To Do

10 Extreme Tours In Las Vegas Every Adrenaline Junkie Needs To Do

 

Off Road Racing | Las Vegas

During a vacation some of us like to lounge by the pool with a cocktail, and others like to get their adrenaline pumping (or a healthy mix of both). If you’re headed to Vegas and are looking to do something other than clubbing and gambling, check out these 10 extreme Las Vegas tours!

1. Shoot a Machine Gun

Head out into the desert and shoot a machine gun and a variety of fire arms at Bullets and Burgers Las Vegas. From Desert Eagle pistols to the M249 Saw, Bullets and Burgers has a huge variety of firearms for you to play with at their outdoor shooting range. Not only that, but they have an insane amount of adrenaline pumping tour packages. Hit off-road trails in a dune buggy, or book a private helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon!

 

Bullets and Burgers | Las Vegas

2. Cruise in a Polaris Slingshot

Explore Las Vegas in your own bat mobile! Book a tour or rental with SinCity Moto and spend hours driving on the roads through Valley of Fire State Park, Mt. Charleston, and even the infamous Las Vegas strip.

 

SinCity Moto Slingshot Tours & Rentals

3. Dive with Sharks

No one wants to sleep with the fishes, but at Mandalay Bay you can swim with them! Well, sharks specifically. Certified divers 18 years of age and older can swim among 30 sharks, schools of fish, and sea turtles in a 1.3 million gallon exhibit

 

Dive with sharks at Mandalay Bay

4. Take Flight at Sky Combat Ace

Take a seat in a plane designed for acrobatics, as the skilled pilot zooms, zips, and rolls through the air! Sky Combat Ace has a flying package for everyone and some of the packages even allow you to fly the plane yourself! Yes – it’s absolutely terrifying, but most awesome things in life are, aren’t they?

 

Sky Combat Ace Las Vegas

5. Be A Rally Racer for the Day

Vegas Rally is the only place in Vegas where you can drift and drive a professional rally car on a dirt track. You’ll be trained and guided by a professional racer, and then will be able to speed around the track in a modded Subaru or chevy sonic!

 

Vegas Rally Racing Experience

6. Explore Sights from a Jeep

Looking for something low-key but still a great adventure? Vegas Jeep Tours is your perfect match! Rent a fully kitted Jeep from Vegas Jeep tours and go on a tour of the Hoover Dam, or even hit some of the trails available at Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon!

 

Vegas Jeep Tours

7. Go SkyDiving

SkyDive Las Vegas as well as other companies around Las Vegas will escort you from your hotel on the strip, out to their location! From there you’ll be trained on tandem skydiving, get in the plane, and jump from over 15,000 ft! A bit much for you? Try the Indoor Skydiving experience!

 

SkyDive Las Vegas

8. Get Hooked Up

Las Vegas is an adult playground – and it wouldn’t be complete without a couple of zip lines! Soar through Fremont Street, Bootleg Canyon, Linq Promenade, or on top of the Rio Hotel!

 

Slotzilla Zipline on Fremont Street

9. Get Wet

While you could lounge at a hotel pool, why not kick It up a notch with tubing, wake boarding, and water sports on gorgeous Lake Mead! Las Vegas Water Sports has packages that can fit any group of people!

 

Tubing with Las Vegas Water Sports

10. Shooting Packages at American Shooters

Just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, American Shooters offers an array of shooting packages. Perfect for groups looking to make a bang during their vacation, American shooters has everything you need! Not only are they a fire arm store, but they also have two ranges for you to try out some of the best guns in the world.

 

American Shooters Las Vegas

Which of these Las Vegas tours will you be doing? Are you crazy enough to do all 10? Let us know in the comments!