How to do Las Vegas differently with two curated itineraries

Las Vegas is famous for its neon lights and high-energy entertainment, but did you know there are other ways to explore the city? From art walks and desert adventures to luxury spas and scenic mountain explorations, the greater Las Vegas area offers experiences that surprise even the most seasoned of travelers.

To show just how many possibilities there are in Las Vegas, we set out to explore opposite — but equally unforgettable — sides of Vegas: chasing adventure and leaning into total relaxation.

Whether you’re into kayaking through red-rock canyons or unwinding with a massage and skyline views, there’s a Vegas for you. Best of all, it’s all doable with points and miles.

For a quintessential Vegas stay in the middle of the action, I checked into The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. For a stay on the Strip, it checked all the boxes.

Cash rates for city rooms, the property’s standard room category, typically hover between $250 and $350 per night. However, The Cosmopolitan is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, making it bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points for between 40,000 and 80,000 points per night, depending on the room you choose.

What really sets The Cosmopolitan apart is that it’s basically a one-stop shop for anything you could want or need in Vegas. There’s an expansive, bustling casino on the ground floor. Plus, you’ll find quick-serve options, sit-down spots and classic nightlife mainstays such as the renowned The Chandelier bar. Whether you’re looking for a morning espresso or a midnight burger, it’s all just a few steps away. At The Cosmopolitan, convenience is king, and the property wears the crown well.

Other adventure-infused accommodations include:

• Resorts World Las Vegas: Home to three distinct Hilton properties under one roof (Conrad Las Vegas, Crockfords Las Vegas and Hilton Las Vegas), Resorts World Las Vegas is a large, modern complex, perfect for travelers who want variety without straying far. All three hotels are bookable with Hilton Honors points, typically starting at 60,000 points per night, depending on the brand and room type.
• Caesars Palace: One of the most iconic names on the Strip, Caesars Palace combines Roman-inspired grandeur with a central Strip location and popular entertainment offerings. Thanks to its partnership with Wyndham Rewards, you can book a room here starting at 30,000 points per night.

Where to play

On the Strip

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I like to start any trip to a new city by getting my bearings, so I headed to the top of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower, where there’s not only an observation deck, but also three thrilling attractions (a roller coaster, a catapult and an open-air, controlled descent jump) that sit over a thousand feet in the air. However, due to lightning, the rides were temporarily closed for the afternoon. Still, I headed up to the observation deck on the 108th floor.

At 1,149 feet, The Strat is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S., standing taller than New York’s Chrysler Building. Taking in the Nevada views with miles of desert visibility in every direction, I watched as an afternoon storm rolled in. It was eerie but oddly peaceful — not quite the adrenaline rush I had in mind, but one that still got my heart pumping.

Tickets for the observation deck start at $21.95, or you can bundle a visit with ride tickets for greater value.

Another option for aerial views is Flyover Las Vegas, a flight simulation experience that takes you soaring over the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park and, of course, the Las Vegas Strip. Expect motion seating, wind effects and stunning visuals. It’s a fun, efficient and cost-effective way to explore the region without leaving the city.

Tickets cost $37 for adults and $27 for children 13 and younger.

And if attractions a little more firmly on the ground are your thrill of choice, check out The Adventuredome at Circus Circus Las Vegas, a 5-acre indoor amusement park with coasters, laser tag, bumper cars and more. Day passes start at $60 for adults and $30 for children or anyone under 48″ tall.

Off the Strip

When you think “Las Vegas,” the first thing that comes to mind likely isn’t an afternoon of serenity kayaking through crystal clear water. But one of our favorite experiences in Vegas was a half-day escape into the Black Canyon with Evolution Expeditions, located about an hour from the Strip.

For my day on the river, I opted for the Kayak Emerald Cave Express tour, which starts at $109 (and worked for me since I had a rental car). But for even more convenience, Evolution Expeditions also offers a package that includes shuttle service that will pick you up from and drop you off at hotels along the Strip for $160.

This three-hour kayaking tour glides you down a stretch of the Colorado River that’s so clear, calm and blue-green it feels as if you’ve entered a real-life Instagram filter. Our guide, Maggie, was a paddling encyclopedia, providing interesting insights about the local flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating history of the construction of the Hoover and Davis dams.

The tour culminated in a visit to the famous Emerald Cave, a tucked-away grotto that gets its name from the ethereal green glow inside. The color comes from blue-green algae in the water that light up when sunlight reflects off the canyon walls. It’s eerie, magical and feels like a scene straight out of a National Geographic magazine.

If you’re looking for more adventure outside the city, consider heading out to Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It’s about a 35-minute drive from the Strip and perfect for hiking, boating or simply taking in the desert views. Entry is $25 per vehicle.

Another quick escape is Seven Magic Mountains, a free outdoor art installation made up of brightly painted stacked boulders that’s just 25 minutes south of the Strip. For the best photos with fewer crowds, aim for golden hour.

Where to wine and dine

Food picks

One of my favorite meals in Vegas was at China Poblano at The Cosmopolitan. I decided to stay adventurous, opting for the $60 tasting menu that playfully alternated between Chinese and Mexican dishes. But, of course, I couldn’t resist adding the queso fundido from the main menu as well because … cheese.

Every course was delicious and artfully plated, but the standout was the 20-vegetable fried rice. It turned dinner into a game of “I Spy” for my taste buds as every bite became a test of my vegetable recall. Dessert brought it all home with a mango sticky rice that was cool, creamy and a little salty but perfectly sweet.

Two more must-try restaurants to round out your Vegas dining experience:

• Din Tai Fung at ARIA Resort & Casino: This beloved dumpling house is known for flawless service, expertly crafted xiaolongbao and spicy shrimp wontons that regulars rave about. Depending on how adventurous you get with the dim sum menu, expect to spend $60 to $100 for two. Reservations are a must, as this can be a very busy restaurant on the Strip.
• The Black Sheep: A local favorite just a short ride from the Strip, this restaurant is the place to go for pork belly bao, duck confit and craft cocktails in a minimalist space. Dinner for two with drinks runs around $90 to $120 — ideal for travelers looking to venture beyond the casino corridor.

Drink picks

For a truly chill experience, I headed to Minus5 Ice Bar at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. I booked the Cool Experience package for $46, which included two cocktails and a parka rental.

Everything from the booths and tables to the cocktail glasses is carved entirely out of ice. Sipping from an ice glass was weirdly delightful, and I loved ducking into the glowing alcoves filled with intricate ice sculptures, each one the perfect little corner for enjoying a chilling cocktail.

When I asked the bartender how often they have to refresh the frozen furniture and decor, I was shocked to learn the ice actually lasts up to six months. That’s how freezing cold it stays in there.

Two more local favorites to add to your list:

• Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den at Resorts World Las Vegas: Hidden behind a faux shelf in the Famous Foods Market of Resorts World Las Vegas, this tucked-away speakeasy has a moody, cocktail-forward vibe that will make you feel like a true Vegas insider. Drinks here are in the $18 to $24 price range.
• Stray Pirate: This downtown tropical bar blends playful energy with local charm. There are arcade games, rum-forward cocktails and a crowd that’s more Vegas native than tourist. Drinks average $12 to $16 each, making it a laid-back, budget-friendly detour from the glitz of the Strip.

For a more serene experience, I opted for the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, a casino- and smoke-free resort with its own private entrance on the Strip. Much to my surprise, this hotel was a total contrast to the usual Vegas buzz. You won’t find bright lights or slot machines in the lobby; instead, there’s a calm, marble-detailed space that sets the tone for your visit.

I stayed in a king room with a view of the Las Vegas Strip. My favorite feature of the room, hands down, had to be the standalone soaking tub and premium Aesop bath products, which made even a quick rinse feel like a soak in a world-class spa.

Cash rates for the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas’ standard room categories range from about $315 to $650 per night. The property is also bookable with Hilton Honors points, meaning you can nab a standard room for anywhere from 90,000 to 120,000 points per night.

Other wellness-friendly stays include:

• Red Rock Casino Resort Spa: Located off the Strip near Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Red Rock Casino Resort Spa is ideal for wellness seekers who want to blend spa days with fresh-air hikes and scenic drives. Part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio, you can book Red Rock Casino Resort Spa using Choice Privileges points thanks to Choice Hotels’ partnership with Preferred. Standard rooms start from 35,000 Choice points per night.
• Vdara Hotel & Spa: A quiet, all-suite, non-smoking hotel right near the Strip, Vdara Hotel & Spa offers suites with kitchenettes and separate living spaces, giving you room to breathe and unwind. It’s a fantastic choice for wellness-focused travelers and those who value extra space. The property is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, making it bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points. Redemptions typically start at 40,000 points per night.

Where to play

On the Strip

I love a good spa and pool day, and rumor has it no one can do it like Vegas can. I can confirm that this is true.

During my visit, I booked the Signature Wellness Massage ($235) at the Waldorf Astoria Spa, where a 27,000-square-foot sanctuary became my home for the day. From the moment I slipped into the plush robe and entered the pretreatment hydrotherapy circuit featuring an herbal steam room, a vitality pool and experience showers, I felt like I was miles away from the hustle and bustle below.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider purchasing a spa day pass. This gives you access to spa amenities like steam rooms and lounges without having to book a treatment. At the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, a day pass is $100, with other spas in the area charging anywhere from about $50 to over $200 for the day — well worth the cost to enjoy a full day of unplugging.

After my treatment, I walked right over to the eighth-floor pool deck, where two pools and whirlpools are lined with cabanas and plush loungers. Now, this is not your typical Las Vegas pool scene. There are no DJs playing loud music; this is a quiet oasis made for some rest and relaxation. I ordered the Waldorf Club ($25) for lunch from the pool cafe, sipped on a strawberry daiquiri ($14) and did exactly what I came here to do: relax and unwind.

Off the Strip

I also wanted to appreciate Las Vegas beyond the Strip during my stay, so I decided to venture a few miles north of the Strip to discover a different side to the city in 18b the Las Vegas Arts District. At the beginning of each month, the district hosts a free family-friendly event called First Friday Las Vegas, which showcases local artists, musicians and even culinary talent.

I took my time strolling and appreciating the different art exhibits, listened to live music and, of course, had to sample a variety of food trucks.

Another great way to slow down in Las Vegas is to rent a car and take the scenic 13-mile loop through Red Rock Canyon, which costs $20 per car or truck. There, you can soak up stunning desert views at various pull-off spots ideal for photo ops and short, easy hikes.

Or, find your Zen at a free yoga class at Downtown Yoga in the Park. Both morning and evening classes are available three days a week. They’re a perfect way to interact with locals and visitors alike for a grounding stretch beyond the Strip.

Where to wine and dine

Food picks

A highlight of my Las Vegas getaway was brunch at Chéri Rooftop at Paris Las Vegas. This bright open-air rooftop spot offers fresh flavors and unbeatable views.

I ordered a refreshing lemonade-based mocktail called the Lavender Sky ($13) along with the seasonal fruit appetizer ($10) and the Chicken Salad Croissant sandwich ($22), which was a light and refreshing combo. If there’s one thing on the menu you shouldn’t skip, though, it’s the grilled blueberry bread ($15) that made me feel like I was sitting at a cafe on the actual streets of Paris.

A few of my other recommended food stops include:

• Naxos Taverna at Red Rock Casino Resort Spa: Known for its upscale ambience and coastal Greek fare, this spot, located just off the Strip at Red Rock Casino Resort Spa, is ideal for a more refined Mediterranean dinner.
• Kassi Beach House at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas: Located just off the Strip at Las Vegas’ Virgin Hotels outpost, this breezy, boho-chic restaurant serves laid-back Italian dishes and refreshing cocktails in a stylish beach setting.

Drink picks

Whether you’re a “Vanderpump Rules” fan or just looking to have a drink in a garden setting, Vanderpump Cocktail Garden at Caesars Palace is a lively lounge without feeling boisterous or too loud. Adorned in floral vines, trees and twinkling lights, this glam bar feels like a secret garden.

I recommend trying the most popular (and magical) drink on the menu: the Puff the Magic Dragon ($24), a smoky, spicy mezcal-based cocktail with a little kick to it. For a sweet mocktail, opt for the Caesar’s Berry ($15), which I found to be fruity and fun.

To explore more of Vegas’s cocktail (or mocktail) scene? Start here:

• Velveteen Rabbit: For a local favorite, head off the Strip to Main Street in 18b the Las Vegas Arts District for craft cocktails and mocktails (some available seasonally) and vintage-inspired decor that creates a whimsical vibe.
• Nowhere at Fontainebleau Las Vegas: Sleek and moody with inventive drinks, this speakeasy-style lounge is perfect for a low-key nightcap or predinner cocktail. Don’t miss the billiard room, and aim to time your visit to coincide with the jazzy live entertainment (available nightly).

Ready to plan your next adventure or escape? Start planning your Las Vegas vacation today.