Think of Las Vegas and the first images to pop into your head are likely to be the iconic skyline, glittering like a lost oasis in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Neon lights, all night casinos pumped with fresh air, Elvis impersonators, and a hangover you’re unlikely to forget: all great reasons to plan a trip to Las Vegas, but what if you’re not interested in that sort of thing? What if you want to absorb a little bit of sunlight? Exactly what is there to do in Las Vegas during the day?
Thrill-seekers should already know that the true heart thumping excitement of Vegas doesn’t take place at a poker table or in an all night chapel. True adventurers will already have done their research, and they’ll know that hidden within the unassuming hotels on the Las Vegas strip are some of the world’s most extreme roller-coasters.
The three rides at the top of The Stratosphere are bound to impress: just leave your fear of heights on the ground or you might begin to feel more than a little queasy as you’re dangled over the side of the 900 foot tower. Catch the Manhattan Express at the NY Hotel at sunset for some stunning scenery; perfect for thrill seekers who appreciate that perfect Kodak moment.
But then if heights really aren’t your thing, you can always try your hand at indoor skydiving in a custom built wind tunnel. All the freedom of a skydive without that nagging feeling you’re about to hit the ground with an almighty splat.
If you lose the shirt off your back at the roulette table, or if you’re more of a shopaholic than an alcoholic, a visit to the Forum shopping mall in Caesar’s Palace is bound to keep you satisfied. With some of the most expensive (and expansive) retail space in the world, you might need to buy a Sat Nav just to find your way back out. The Roman themed décor and architecture will ensure that even the most jaded of shoppers have something to look at.
It’s easy to forget the Nevada landscape around Las Vegas; yes, there is a world outside of the bustle of the strip. That’s why it’s wise to take a day trip out of the madness once it becomes too much. The Valley of Fire and Lake Mead are great areas of natural meriting a visit, and for a deeper understanding of the Nevada eco-system head to The Springs Preserve.
Dedicated to celebrating Las Vegas’s long and interesting history, the parkland takes its name from the babbling brook that used to flow there keeping Native Americans, Mormons, and those on their way to Mexico well hydrated back in the days before the Hoover Dam was built.
Speaking of which, the iconic Hoover Dam is located only a short drive from Las Vegas. As one of the greatest engineering feats of all time it would be a shame to miss out; plus the views are again, incredible. The Atomic Testing Museum is another must see for anyone who wants to keep their Las Vegas trip high brow and educational… and you can use that excuse when you visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, too. Who doesn’t want to know how chocolate is made?
This is before we cover the Shark Reef Aquarium, Liberace Museum, and Madame Tussauds. There’s always something going on in Las Vegas, whether it’s night or day. Of course, if you’d rather spend your night gambling, drinking, and marrying people that you’ve just met that’s completely up to you. Just try not to feel as though you’ve missed out when you sleep through the afternoon.
