VisitLasVegas Blog

Head down to the Las Vegas Strip on Cinco de Mayo for the best margaritas and tequila this side of the border!

Diego at MGM Grand boasts an unsurpassed selection of tequilas, with 125 different 100 percent Agave Tequila labels, while Tacos & Tequila at Luxor incorporates traditional elements of Mexican style and Las Vegas flair. Mix it up with a new concept from Chef Jose Andres at Cosmopolitan's China Poblano for a Chinese and Mexican melting pot dish, or, relax in the vibrant Border Grill at Mandalay Bay for a great view of the Lazy River just off Mandalay Bay Beach.

Grab a mid-afternoon drink at Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo Cantina at the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood or Taqueria Canonita at The Venetian, also close by, for a true "south of the border" taste. The restaurant's centerpiece boasts a lively exhibition kitchen, featuring sculpted steel and wrought-iron gates, colorful Mexican tiles and authentic Mexican folk art.

Spin the Wheel o' Sin at Monte Carlo's Diablo's Cantina for great deals on shots, beers and margaritas during happy hour, then grab a seat on their outdoor patio to enjoy the sights. Settle in at El Segundo Sol outside of the Fashion Show Mall for made-to-order margaritas with funky flavors like cucumber-mint and prickly pear.

Hussong's Cantina and Taqueria at Mandalay Place claims one of their bartenders, Don Carlos Orozco, from the original location, created the first margarita in 1941.  By mixing equal parts tequila, Damiana and lime, he served the concoction over ice in a salt-rimmed glass for Margarita Henkel, daughter of the German Ambassador to Mexico. Order one of Hussong's specially crafted tequilas or, if you have a sweet tooth, a Bloodtini or a Mexican Lemon Drop margarita.

If you want to head off the Strip, the hip Pink Taco at the Hard Rock Hotel features authentic Mexican craftwork and drinks and the Coasta Cantina at The Orleans on Tropicana Avenue will have your mouth watering with tequila shrimp and 99-cent margaritas during happy hour. Just a few stops on the Monorail, Vince Neil's Tres Rios at the LVH - Las Vegas Hotel features 18-month aged barreled tequilas; and downtown at Casa Don Juan's, homemade tortilla chips, fresh salsa and an expansive tequila collection add to the unique Arts District vibe. Happy hour specials are great, but why not treat your friends to 24 hour $.99 margaritas at any bar at the historic downtown Fremont Hotel! 5 friends - 5 drinks - 5 dollars!

So, grab a few amigos, head to your favorite Vegas Mexican restaurant, and have a drink (or two or three) to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Vegas!

Warm spring weather in Las Vegas offers the perfect opportunity to pull up a chair and feel the sun's rays on your face as you enjoy a delicious meal on the patio. Whether you are looking for a relaxing way to start off your morning or want to rest your weary feet by sunning mid-afternoon, Las Vegas has you covered with a variety of outdoor dining options.

Planet Hollywood: Cabo Wabo, PBR

Wynn: SW Steakhouse, Bartolotta, Lakeside, Terrance Point Cafe, La Cave, Country Club

Encore: Botero, Switch Steak, Sinatra

Red Rock: T-Bones, Yard House

Fashion Show Mall: Maggianos, RA Sushi Bar, Stripburger

Caesars Palace: Serendipity 3, Central Michel Richard, Rao's

Flamingo: Margaritaville

Monte Carlo: Diablo's Cantina, The Pub

Mandalay Bay: Border Grill, miX

New York-New York: Nine Fine Irishmen

Four Seasons: Verandah

Bellagio: Olives, Picasso, Prime Steakhouse, Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant and Lounge

Paris Hotel and Casino: Mon Ami Gabi

Venetian: Bouchon

Palazzo: Morels French Steakhouse and Bistro, Lavo

Cosmopolitan: Estiatorio Milos, Overlook Grill, Comme Ca

Crystals:  Todd English P.U.B., Social House

Hard Rock: Pink Taco

Downtown: Hennessy's, Triple George Grill, Le Thai

Green Valley Ranch: Terra Verde

Vegas is unique in that any time of day, whether it is six in the morning or six at night, there is always something going on, every single day of the week. It is a never-ending adventure, full of activities, excellent cuisine and great times just waiting to be had.

The best part is that you can experience Vegas the right way with fewer crowds by planning your vacation midweek. Mid-week occupancy is 13 percent lower than weekend occupancy, so you will have more options for seats at your favorite shows, more leniency in restaurant reservations and so much more!

No matter what you plan to do in Vegas, consider experiencing it all on a Tuesday or Wednesday. There are plenty of shows and events that take place mid-week. For example, this Tuesday, April 10, you could check out IMPACT-An Explosion of Magic and Music at the Clarion Hotel and Casino, see ABSINTHE at Caesars Palace for some adult entertainment or hit up Excalibur for a little Thunder from Down Under action. Check out more events here for any day of the week.

Imagine waking up bright and early in the morning to hit up Bali Hai Golf Course with the buddies, then joining your wife for a delectable breakfast at The Venetian's Bouchon. Next, relax with some serious pampering at the Encore Spa for a massage or exotic body scrub. You could then head over to the Stratosphere for a bit of adventure with SkyJump. (You'll want to have an empty stomach for this one!)

But wait, the day has just begun! After your relaxing and adventurous morning sans crowds, sit back, grab a beer and cheer on your favorite team at Lagasse's Stadium at The Palazzo. Then, head over to the Flamingo for Nathan Burton Comedy Magic or stop by Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden at The Mirage to glimpse lions and tigers and dolphins ... oh my!

Because it is midweek, it's easier to get reservations at the top restaurants in Vegas. Finish off a fantastic day with mouth-watering cuisine from Craftsteak at MGM Grand or Wolfgang Puck's Spago at Caesars Palace, open every day. Finally, head over to some of the Strip's most luxurious lounges including Chandelier at The Cosmopolitan or ARIA's Gold Lounge for a signature cocktail and fabulous people watching.

There is always something happening in Vegas, any day, any time. Book your trip mid-week to the crowds! See you soon!

If you've ever caught yourself at home watching cooking shows, mouth watering as celebrity chefs prepare their signature dishes, wishing that you could taste those delicious creations, look no further than Las Vegas! Vegas is host to several celebrity chefs including Wolfgang Puck, Emeril Lagasse, Todd English, Bobby Flay and more!

Known for the best of restaurant hospitality, Wolfgang Puck opened his first Las Vegas restaurant, Spago, in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace in 1992. His restaurant thrived, so he opened five more Las Vegas-based restaurants including Chinois in The Forum Shops, Postrio at The Venetian, Lupo in Mandalay Bay, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill at MGM Grand and CUT at The Palazzo.

Emeril Lagasse is widely known for his jovial personality and Cajun and creole-influenced cuisine on his show Emeril Live. For a taste of his delicious New Orleans-style dishes, visit Emeril's New Orleans Fish House at MGM Grand, try Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian or dine at The Palazzo's Table 10 or Lagasse's Stadium as you watch the big game.

Todd English is a renowned chef, restaurateur, author, entrepreneur and television star. For a delicious Mediterranean meal, check out the beautiful and romantic Olives at Bellagio for a view of the Bellagio fountains every half-hour or grab a bite from the Todd English P.U.B. at Crystals for traditional East Coast grub.

Known for his expertise in barbecue grilling, Bobby Flay's dishes are bold, zesty and fun. Check out his restaurant Mesa Grill at Caesars Palace for southwestern flare. His Mexican spice-rubbed pork tenderloin and mango-spiced crusted tuna are sure to impress.

Visit http://www.visitlasvegas.com/restaurants/celebrity-chefs/ for a list of more celebrity chef restaurants to try out on your next visit to the culinary capital of the world!

Known for his one-of-a-kind voice and daring style, Cee Lo Green draws attention wherever he goes, but he's had enough of the paparazzi capturing every move he makes. With the help of his trusted chauffeur, Cee Lo escapes to the one place on earth where he can find a retreat from the flashbulbs of the press: Las Vegas! After all, What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

With a true understanding of the Vegas Code, we will never know Cee Lo's "Only Vegas" moments, but we've picked a few Vegas hot spots that are certified safe for tweeting, posting, tagging and sharing. These spots also feature that distinctive Cee Lo flair.

Escape the paparazzi at Canyon Ranch SpaClub at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, a glorious respite from the action of the city, and rest assured this sanctuary is all Vegas VIP. With its incomparable class and incredible views, the rooms at Wynn Las Vegas define the experience of "luxury." Elevate your party by experiencing the sparkle of Las Vegas on the 64th floor of THEhotel at Mix, where the stunning 24-foot chandelier of 15,000 hand-blown glass spheres dazzle like champagne bubbles. If 64 floors aren't enough, then take it to the top with SkyJump at Stratosphere. The ultimate Vegas free fall from the 108th floor is one heck of a view.

Shopping in Vegas is a must. Stroll through Crystals at CityCenter, an unprecedented array of the world's most exclusive retailers including many flagship stores including TOM FORD, Roberto Cavalli, and Louis Vuitton. The glamour doesn't stop there, be entertained by GRAMMY award-winning music icon and inspiration to Cee Lo, Elton John at Caesars Palace.

Call your friends, pack your bags, book a trip, and explore the luxury Las Vegas has to offer. But remember, knowing the code is the first step in truly experiencing your "Only Vegas" moments. Sign the oath and report those who violate the code.  

  Book a romantic Las Vegas getaway this Valentine's Day and enjoy a romantic retreat that will keep your flame burning for that special someone all year long.

 Start with a little soothing of the senses. Las Vegas is also home to the more than 45 unique and relaxing luxury spas. Most spas offer specials for couples, and specialty services such as sport, Shiatsu and Swedish massages; herbal baths; wraps; aromatherapy and reflexology; steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools; and more. You'll be in the lap of luxury and leave feeling invigorated and refreshed.

Then you'll be ready for a night out just for two. Take a stroll around Fremont Street in the early evening and enjoy the overhead light show of Viva Vision. Then head into the Four Queens Hotel and look for Hugo's Cellar. As you might guess, it's in the basement of the hotel - a rustic, charming and vintage Vegas restaurant awaits you. The food and ambience are top-notch; both complemented by some of Vegas' finest servers. And tradition here is strong, as every lady receives a complimentary rose upon leaving.

If you don't want to dine in a cellar, you can have your head in the clouds instead, overlooking Las Vegas at the Stratosphere's Top of the World restaurant, or experience the ultimate in romantic getaways at Eiffel Tower Restaurant. Great food, piano entertainment and a view of the city - it's a Valentine's Day dinner your partner will never forget. Just across Las Vegas Boulevard, there is no better waterfront dining experience than Le Cirque. Exquisite French cuisine and an extensive wine list will tempt your taste buds as you enjoy the famous dancing Fountains of Bellagio.

Afterward, get cozy and enjoy some of Las Vegas' unique nightlife, including the retro-swagger of Matt Goss at Caesars Palace, or any of the free late-night lounge acts at many Strip hotels. For an only-in-Vegas experience, enjoy late-night cocktails at the Fireside Lounge at the Peppermill on the Strip - mirrored walls, fake flowers and a central fireplace add to the kitschy Vegas experience.

Spark your romance this Valentine's Day in Vegas!

 Everyone makes New Year's resolutions, and most of the time, they don't last. This year, try a different approach: Enjoy a little Las Vegas indulgence first, and then you'll be ready to stick to your New Year's pledges.

For example, if you have a sweet tooth and are committed to cutting back on treats, hey, that's commendable. But before you do, enjoy one last round of delicious desserts at the Sugar Factory inside Paris Las Vegas or Ghirardelli's at Carnaval Court, the outdoor promenade at Harrah's Las Vegas.

Suppose you vow to save money by eating out less this year. Again, that's admirable - but that's no reason to give up your culinary cravings completely, so take a January trip to Vegas and enjoy a few more award-winning restaurants, then start your resolutions in February. We won't tell.

Perhaps you're a sports fan whose significant other claims you are spending too much time in front of the TV so you've promised to cut back on your sports viewing? Well, get one last screen-fest in with football playoffs, college and pro basketball, and hockey all going on simultaneously on huge screens throughout luxurious Vegas sports books.

Your resolutions can wait. After all, you can't break one if you haven't started it yet. So enjoy a little Vegas and then your New Year's commitments will be easier to keep!

     Sometimes, guys just need to be guys. Get your group together and experience the ultimate Bro Weekend in Vegas!

     Guys like their automobiles - so come get your engine revved up at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, where you can drive in a NASCAR-style 600 horse power stock car at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Also at the speedway is the Shelby Automobiles sports car museum, and don't miss the Auto Collections at Imperial Palace, home to more than 250 classic cars.  Looking for high end sports cars - check out the Wynn-Penske showroom at Wynn Las Vegas - featuring a collection of brand new and pre-owned Ferrarri's and Maserati's!

     If speed isn't your thing, but power is, then check out Dig This! Get behind the controls of the big Cat machines and dig - dig - dig to your hearts delight! Speed - Power - not enough?  Head for the Silverton Hotel and check out the newest lineup of watercraft, fishin' boats, and speedcraft at Bass Pro Shops, then make some waves out on scenic Lake Mead.

     Afterward, it's time for a hearty meal. Try the gourmet burgers at Le Burger Brasserie at Paris Las Vegas or Mexican cuisine and rock 'n' roll flair of Tacos & Tequila at the Luxor. Catch great sports action in a unique atmosphere; combine Emeril Lagasse's signature cuisine with more than 100 HDTVs, luxury boxes and an outdoor patio at Lagasse's Stadium at the Palazzo.

     Then, it's time to relax before a big night out - start with a Gentlemen Only Facial at The BATHHOUSE at TheHOTEL at Mandalay Bay.  Then, join the ultimate boy's club and dine at DJT - that's Donald's place.  Fine dining, exclusive atmosphere, and just steps from the Las Vegas Strip, Trump International Hotel is the starting point for the real men about Vegas.

     It's Showtime! Direct from Paris, the girls of Crazy Horse at MGM Grand always deliver a sensual show - and the new sexy rock show RAAck & Roll undresses nightly at Hooters Casino & Hotel. Then it's time to experience some sizzling nightlife including The Bank at Bellagio, Tao Nightclub at The Venetian, LAX at Luxor, Revolution Lounge at Mirage, HAZE at ARIA, and after hours at nightlife innovator Drai's inside Bill's Gamblin' Hall.

    How's that sound, Bro?

     With amazing holiday menus all over town, great places to watch football on the holiday and glorious shopping options to kick off the season, Las Vegas is the perfect place to spend your Thanksgiving weekend!

     It all starts with an amazing meal. The signature restaurants at Wynn Las Vegas are all offering traditional Thanksgiving feasts but with innovative touches. Check out the four-course prix fixe holiday menu at Bartolotta or for late feasters, the special late night menu at Stratta from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

     Canal Street at The Orleans is offering a special four-course dinner beginning at 1 p.m. featuring traditional and surf and turf options and First Food & Bar at The Palazzo is offering its Thanksgiving Extravaganza beginning at 11 a.m.

     All three Hash House a Go Go locations -- inside Imperial Palace on the Strip, the Plaza Hotel downtown and the M Resort south of the Strip -- are featuring holiday specials, also beginning at 11 a.m. No matter where you are in Vegas this Thanksgiving, you're sure to find a terrific meal!

     There's also plenty of exciting pro football action on Thanksgiving and you can catch every big play at the Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, where the theater is converted to Football Central, or the split-level MGM Grand sportsbook complete with its own VIP booths.

     Then, it's on to Black Friday, and some holiday bargains. With so many shopping options in Las Vegas, you're sure to find something for everyone on your list this holiday season.

     Start at Town Square Las Vegas with its 150 shops and specialty stores, or head downtown to Las Vegas Premium Outlets North. Great deals are in store everywhere you look!

     Stuff yourself with great food, sports and shopping this Thanksgiving weekend in Vegas!

       Everybody knows about the excitement up and down the Las Vegas Strip, but did you know that there's plenty to see at the south end of famous Las Vegas Boulevard.

     If you like shopping, you'll find great deals at more than 140 stores at Las Vegas Premium Outlets South. Or stroll through Town Square Las Vegas, an outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment center with a pedestrian-friendly street and walkways, an 18-screen movie theater and more than a dozen signature restaurants.

     Grab your clubs and play a round at Bali Hai Golf Course. You'll be taken to a tropical island paradise and will see why Bali Hai has been recognized as one of the "Top 40 Resort Courses in America" by GolfWeek. Navigate through seven acres of water hazards and 4,000 trees. Or put in a quick nine at the Calloway Golf Center, with a spectacular view of departing planes!

     There are some great hotels south of the Strip as well, including South Point and the M Resort. And if you really want to head south this winter, Primm Valley Resort is a great place to go for more shopping, dining and excitement.

     Enjoy some southern Strip hospitality the next time you're in Vegas!