After two years of little to no tourism, Las Vegas is officially back in action. According to southern Nevada’s tourism reports, about 32 million people visited the area from 2021 to 2022. This represents an almost 10 million increase from just 2020. But visitors to Las Vegas aren’t just eagerly returning for its casinos and shows. Many are also coming to see the diverse sights, sounds, and experiences that Las Vegas has to offer away from the sparkling Strip.
Beautiful Natural Parks
Although most people picture glittering buildings and bright lights when they think of Las Vegas, the city is actually close to many natural wonders. After all, Nevada is a desert state peppered with many lush wetlands, rock formations, and stunning trails. Chief among these is the Red Rock Canyon hiking trail, which is among the most exciting things to do in Las Vegas. Only a short drive away from the Strip, hiking this trail can be a peaceful and invigorating experience. While the landscape isn’t as varied as that of the exquisite John Muir trail in the Sierra Nevada, Red Rock has 26 open-country options perfect for everyone.
For travelers who want to experience nature away from the canyons and sands, though, Las Vegas is also near stunning bodies of water. Considered one of the country’s most popular attractions there is Lake Mead. Home to approximately 750 miles of shoreline, Lake Mead features several diverse activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and more. For visitors who want some serene sunbathing, Willow Beach is also close by.
Delicious Dining Concepts
Las Vegas has some of the most delicious and colorful dining cultures. Apart from the fine dining concepts on the Strip itself, Las Vegas also has more distinct cuisines. To satisfy your dim sum cravings, Vegas’ Chinatown has several eateries that have been run for generations. One of the most noteworthy is Raku, which is fast becoming a must-splurge omakase experience. Just a few things on the menu include house-made tofu, sashimi, and melt-in-your-mouth beef. For visitors with a sweet tooth, there’s also the beloved Ethel M Chocolate Factory. Named after the mother of Forrest Mars Sr. (of the famed Mars corporation), Ethel M produces mouth-watering chocolates. Visiting chocoholics can tour the facility and the world’s largest cactus gardens.
Adrenaline-Pumping Activities
A trip to Las Vegas wouldn’t be complete without some adrenaline-pumping action. Fortunately, there is no shortage of such activities in the region. Just a stone’s throw from the Strip itself, visitors can go swimming with sharks in The Golden Nugget. While it’s not quite as immersive as shark experiences out in the open water, The Tank at the hotel offers an equally fun time. Designed with a 30-foot water slide that runs through a 200,000-gallon shark tank, the pool also includes faux waterfalls and a bar. On-staff marine biologists are also available for behind-the-scenes tours.
Should visitors want to feel a pure adrenaline thrill, Las Vegas also offers skydiving and Nascar ride-alongs. For both activities, visitors are guided by a professional for maximum safety before undertaking a one-of-a-kind experience. The Nascar ride-alongs take place on the famed Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Granted, the Strip is one of Las Vegas’ most celebrated features. However, this bustling area is just the tip of the iceberg. For travelers who want to enjoy a diverse travel experience, Las Vegas is definitely one destination that shouldn’t be missed.
