Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Nearly 40 million people travel to Las Vegas each year ranging from the economy traveler to the super wealthy. For each person who spends $1,000 per night on a hotel room or $200 per person on a meal, there are those who are in pursuit of the deal -- free meals or reduced show tickets, to name a few. Las Vegas is one of the world's most perfect vacation destinations because it can be as extravagant or value-conscious as the traveler wants to make it.
The best way to save on hotel rooms is to stay off-strip. There are upwards of 20 hotels along Las Vegas Boulevard, or the Strip as it is better known. But, there are hundreds more down the side streets adjacent to the action. Many of the world's largest hotel chains populate these areas. Properties under the Marriott, Hilton and Starwood Hotels range from the two-star budget brands to the five-star boutique labels.
Look at hotels in the Fremont Street area. These Downtown Las Vegas hotels are typically lower priced than their brethren on the Strip. While less luxurious, these hotels are a throwback to Old Vegas and are within a short monorail ride of the Strip.
The Las Vegas Strip has more five-star restaurants than any other street in the United States. But, five stars are not the only dining option. Almost every hotel has a food court and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Food courts typically have a range of fast food or casual dining options from standbys like McDonalds and Subway to casual sit-down options.
While there is no such thing as a free lunch, Las Vegas has something close. Dotting the landscape are resort brokers who promise free dinners or show tickets in exchange for listening to their sales pitch. The sales force can be quite insistent, but the reward for listening to the spiel can be tasty, from buffet vouchers to certificates to a nearby eatery. These representatives typically inhabit the Stripside entrances of the resorts.
The allure of excess is the backbone of Las Vegas. Casino entrances are often times as entertaining as the gambling and shows inside. The Waters at the Bellagio, volcano show at the Mirage, the Sirens of Treasure Island and the lion habitat at the MGM Grand are all within a reasonable walking distance and free of charge to view. Whether it is a water show or live pirate fight, casinos use these attractions to draw visitors through their doors.
Las Vegas sits in the middle of a desert, but there are a number of natural and historical wonders to be seen. Approximately one hour south of the city is Hoover Dam, the largest manmade dam in the United States. The dam is an architectural wonder -- taming the Colorado River and creating hydroelectric power from its current, as well as preventing the Las Vegas valley from flooding. Red Rock National Recreational Area is 30 minutes west of the city and provides a beautiful view of desert flora, fauna and rock formations. Spring Mountain State Park, located near Red Rock, is a functioning ranch and natural preserve.