What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. We have all seen the Hangover and know the debauchery and chaos associated with Las Vegas. But have you ever considered bringing the ole ball and chain? After our recent getaway, we are convinced Sin City is a perfect destination for a weekend away with your other half.
There are so many activities for a couple with any and all interests. It would be futile to compile a complete list, but below are some highlights from what we fit into our Labor Day Weekend.
Gamble
Listen, gambling is fun but doing it together makes winning more enjoyable and losing, well, a bonding exercise? (Fine, losing still stinks).
For guys, this is an obvious attraction. Three words: Legal. Sports. Betting. Throw in a few spins of roulette and some heartbreak in Blackjack, and you have the recipe for an entertaining (if not frustrating) weekend. Let’s face it, we aren’t complicated beings – the casino floor had us at the bright, flashing lights.
However, gambling isn’t just for the guys. Jen doesn’t care about sports, but she suddenly became a sports fan for the day as we maneuvered our college football bets. Not into sports? Then cheering the roll of dice poolside, playing craps may be the activity for you. Even still, Jen’s favorite activity remains collecting free drinks before dinner playing $1 slots (old lady style).
Tips – Every casino on the strip has big, active casino floors. You should definitely check out Caesar’s Palace and the Bellagio for the vintage feel. For fellow low-rollers looking for less risk and reward, I recommend stopping by the Flamingo as they have an array of low stakes tables for guilt-free couples gambling. You will more than make up your inevitable $20 loss with a handful of free drinks.
Helicopter to the Grand Canyon – Check out one of the wonders of the world in style. The views as we approached the Grand Canyon were spectacular, but the once-in-a-lifetime experience of landing IN IT was unmatched. The return flight over the Vegas Strip wasn’t half bad either. We took a 4-hour tour with Maverick Tours and highly recommend it to those seeking a unique experience.
O! (or another Cirque du Soleil show): O! boy (see what I did there?) does this show live up to the hype. We would put this on the very top of your Vegas to-do list. We were blown away for 2 hours straight (and this was Jen’s second time). Check out the most talented athletes on the most intricate stage in what we are convinced is the most unique show in the world.
Wynn Pool: Enjoy the heat and sun with a day by the pool, complete with frozen drinks!!! The Cabana has multiple options to rent for the day, but we also found there were often chairs available at all times of the day. If you have a group, the Lily pads were a very cool option!
Concerts: Unfortunately, a lot of shows were on hiatus over LDW, but there are so many great acts to choose from – Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys to name a few!
Eat!
There are so many places to dine in Vegas (many of which are also in NYC). We would suggest doing your due diligence before your visit. Frankly, the restaurants are all opulent and delicious, but many come at a (steep) cost.
Jaleo: At the Cosmopolitan, this was far and away our favorite dinner of the trip. Spanish tapas, wine and paella paired with world-class service! Jaleo was surprisingly cost effective (relatively speaking), and we had a blast trying a dozen different dishes. Since we were unable to try everything we wanted, we will absolutely return on our next trip.
Sinatra: At Encore, you feel like you’ve walked back in time to hay day of the Rat Pack. If you’re in the mood for Italian with a fantastic ambience, definitely give Sinatra a try. This is on the expensive side, so be sure to check out the menu before going!
Costa di Mare: At the Wynn, this is definitely a splurge option. The food was fantastic as you can choose from dozens of delicious fish. However, the portions are small, and the prices are very Vegas. We enjoyed the ambience and the food, but not a huge bang for your buck.
Allegro: A more casual, easy Italian spot at the Wynn. We wanted some comfort food the evening before our early flight out, and this was the perfect spot. The food was incredible and more cost effective than the other restaurants at the Wynn.
Buffet at the Wynn: One of the highest acclaimed buffets in Vegas. This is a must go spot whether it’s morning, noon, or late night!!
Mizumi: At the Wynn, perfect if you are in the mood for Hibachi. We did not make it here, but have heard good reviews from multiple friends!
Other: Some of our NY Favorites are also in Vegas – Bar Masa, Carbone, STK and Estiatoria Milos, to name a few.
Where to stay:
Wynn Las Vegas: Our main goal was relaxation mixed with good eating and some gambling. We stayed at the Wynn for its reputation, pool and dozens of on-site restaurants. We absolutely loved it – the service, the ambience and the pools were exactly as advertised. Next time we may try its sister hotel, Encore at Wynn.
Cosmopolitan: For those trendier (and more youthful) this is your spot. Perfect for groups of girls or guys, more centrally located on the strip and certainly more of a scene. Definitely check out their Marque Day and Night Club – the perfect party experience.
Tips – Check with your credit card providers as we found out later that Chase and AMEX have great discounts and perks with a range of hotels on the strip!
While this list is not exhaustive, we hope our couple Vegas experience surprised you. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to us!
