72 Hours in Las Vegas

First time to Vegas? Head over to the Stratosphere to get a bird’s eye view of the entire downtown area. See the lights on the Strip at night or get a feel for the vastness of the city during the day. If you’re a daredevil, there are a few rides on the extreme top that might get your adrenalin pumping, including two that have you suspended in some form over the side. With its location on the northern end of the main tourist area of Vegas, it’s a great place to start.

Fremont Street is a must-see. It’s an older portion of Las Vegas with some classic scenes you’ll have seen on various television shows. Go zip lining, either in a flat position like Superman, or take it easier in a sitting position. Either way, it’s not for the faint of heart. If you can, attempt to make reservations for your group prior to your visit as they do sell out, especially the upper zip line.

Head into the Venetian for a ride in a gondola along the canals. Wander the Conservatory in the Bellagio, which changes throughout the year so if you’ve seen it once, chances are it’s different now. While at the Bellagio, be sure to watch the fountain show; at night, the colors are even more spectacular. Chocolate lovers, the M&M’s World is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The Mirage’s infamous volcano erupts every hour after dusk — don’t miss it, as it’s a quick show. See the Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage or the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.

Vegas is a big amusement park, with rides from one end to the other. Coasters, water rides, a Tilt-a-Whirl, indoor skydiving, it’s everywhere, beginning with your drive in from Southern California. Desperado at Buffalo Bill’s is a coaster that will get your attention and have you even more excited to get into the city. If driving a race car is more you thing, check in with the Las Vegas Motor Speedway; numerous events occur there that include opportunities to take your car or an actual race car up to serious speeds for a thrill of a lifetime.

While there are too many museums available to list, your children will love the Discovery Children’s Museum for hands-on interactive exhibits to burn some energy. The Neon Museum and Boneyard displays 150+ old Vegas signs, giving you a brief glimpse into the history of Sin City. For more traditional exhibits, the Nevada State Museum gives you insight into the state itself, and if you’re into a train ride, head to the Nevada State Railroad Museum, where you can ride an authentic train on actual tracks used to transport cargo for Hoover Dam’s construction.

Speaking of too much to list, Las Vegas is a foodie heaven, with restaurants for every type of food you’d want. If you’re a big food tv watcher, you’ll have your pick of restaurants owned and run by famous tv chefs. Bobby Flay, Giada de Laurentiis, Mario Batali, Guy Fieri, Chef Morimoto and others are scattered along the strip, offering the opportunity for a special meal you won’t find anywhere else. Just make reservations ahead of time or be prepared for a possible long wait.

Speaking of Hoover Dam, it’s not a long drive from Vegas, so you’ll be able to see Lake Mead while taking the dam tour. The Grand Canyon is 300 miles from Las Vegas, but there are also other state parks, hiking trails, wildlife refuges and other outdoor activities closer.

With a little extra energy and maybe missing some sleep, you’ll be able to fit it all in within your 72 hours in Las Vegas. Visit Fox off-airport for your cheap rental car; we’ll get you on the road fast after your car rental experience with a vehicle big enough to fit all your gear and small enough to easily park at the many lots all over the city. Book online today so you can see Vegas tomorrow!