Las Vegas, Nevada, attracts over 39 million visitors each year, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. The city is known for its casinos, but there are plenty of things for active people to enjoy, without ever sitting down at a slot machine. The Las Vegas Strip, a 2.5-mile stretch of road flanked on both sides by the city's largest and most dynamic casino properties is the heart of the city, with each resort trying to attract visitors with shows, attractions and unique architecture.
Outdoor Shows
Many of the resorts that line The Strip offer free outdoor shows. As you wander along The Strip, you can watch a full-size pirate ship embark on a battle against another ship at Treasure Island. Next door at the Mirage, a volcano erupts in a flurry of special effect magic and ground rumbling sound. In front of the Bellagio, enjoy the magical dancing fountains that are synchronized to a continuous musical score. All of the outdoor shows are free, and make for an interesting day of hiking.
Architectural Tour
The hotels along The Strip feature elaborate themes and incredibly unique architecture. As you hike along the 2.5-mile thoroughfare, you will see everything from tacky medieval castles to gorgeous upscale towers. At one end of the strip, the Luxor Hotel beckons with its massive pyramid design. New York, New York and Paris, Las Vegas both replicate the skylines of each city, including a scaled-down Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty.
Enjoy the Wildlife
Wildlife is plentiful along the Las Vegas Strip. In fact, you can enjoy all types of creatures as you explore the casinos. One of the best known animal attractions is Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at Mirage. Here you can enjoy rare white tigers and other animals in a gorgeous setting. At nearby MGM, you can visit a lush lion habitat filled with these majestic creatures. If fish capture your attention, enjoy the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, home to thousands of interesting and colorful creatures.
Experience a Thrill
If you enjoy a good thrill ride, The Strip offers plenty of options that are certain to increase your heart rate. At New York, New York, you can ride a roller-coaster that accelerates to over 67 mph as it winds its way through the hotel. The Stratosphere boasts six attractions, each designed for maximum thrills. Be sure to try the sky jump, a controlled 800-foot free-fall that will leave you breathless.
Dine
The Strip is home to hundreds of restaurants--from high-end gourmet fare to inexpensive buffets. If you enjoy fine dining, book a reservation at one of the premium restaurants, operated by celebrity chefs such as Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay. Each casino offers a wide range of menus and regional tastes, including Italian, Mexican, Japanese and Chinese restaurants, at a variety of different price points. Book a few hours ahead to avoid line-ups.
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