Things to Do in Las Vegas in December

Things to Do in Las Vegas in December
Photo Credit las vegas from above image by Olegs Mareida from Fotolia.com

If you're in Las Vegas during the month of December, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained. Despite the common misconception that Las Vegas is always warm, it can actually get quite brisk in the winter months. The average temperature in December is 46 degrees, but some days can be near the freezing mark. With temperatures this low, you'll want to spend time indoors and out of the cold. Fortunately, you have lots of options.

Dining

Many people go to Las Vegas to gamble, but there are many more things to enjoy while you're there. Las Vegas boasts some award-winning restaurants that are sure to satisfy all of the diners in your party. For French cuisine, try Chef André Rochat's Alize Restaurant, which is located at the top of the Palms Casino Resort. With 1,800 wines to choose from, Alize is a "must" for discerning wine drinkers. Those who prefer Italian cuisine should try Il Mulino New York. Il Mulino is known for both its appetizers and desserts, and it's a favorite with locals and tourists alike. For something a little different, eat at Shibuya Restaurant, a Japanese restaurant located near the MGM Grand. This is the place to go for those who like both traditional and unique variations of sushi.

Shopping

If you like to shop, then you'll have plenty of stores to keep you busy in Las Vegas. In addition to holiday sales to entice buyers, many of the shops and malls in Las Vegas also have beautiful holiday window displays. Though many stores decorate for the holidays, a few are truly noteworthy. These include the Forum Shops at Caesars, the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian, Boulevard Mall, Fashion Show Mall and the Via Bellagio.

Pamper Yourself

After shopping, eating, gambling and site seeing, you're sure to be exhausted. Get some much needed rest and relaxation at one of Las Vegas' many spas. For a quiet, intimate experience at a small spa, check out the spa at the Vdara Hotel. There's no casino in the hotel, and there are only 11 spa treatment rooms, so this is a great, quiet place to unwind. For those on the other end of the spectrum who want a large spa with restaurants and casinos nearby, try The Spa at ARIA. This spa is 80,000 square feet, two stories high, and has 62 treatments rooms and spa suites that can accommodate eight people. Restaurants and clubs are nearby.

Winter Lights Festival

The Springs Preserve has an eight acre garden that it decorates with 500,000 eco-friendly LED, solar-powered lights. The Winter Lights Festival will delight both young and old visitors, and should definitely be on your to-do list if you're in Las Vegas in December. While walking around the beautifully lit garden, you'll enjoy entertainment from performers, craft activities, horse rides, and a holiday kiddie train. Of course, children can also visit with Santa while they're here. Tickets cost less than $10 per person.

The M Resort Tree Lighting Ceremony

The M Resort hosts a tree lighting ceremony that is not to be missed. In 2009, the Christmas tree at the resort was the tallest one in the country (109 feet). You'll find the tree at the M Resort's Villaggio Del Sole Outdoor Entertainment and Events Piazza. The tree is decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, and the tree lighting ceremony usually takes place in the middle of December. During the ceremony, you can have hot chocolate with Christmas cookies while you listed to carolers singing.

References

Article reviewed by Lynda Moultry Belcher Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments