I’m almost 30. T-H-I-R-T-Y. That statement, along with some unexpected time off, spurred a last minute getaway to Las Vegas.
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We first visited Sin City in February of 2015 as sweet, young, newlyweds. The warm weather of the West was a welcome break from our St. Louis winter, and we loved every minute of the three-night trip. Outside of the whole leaving the 75 degree sun to land in snow, that is.
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Fast forward to 2017 and a new address, we took our first road trip in October to see the St. Louis Blues play the newly formed Vegas Golden Knights. We weren’t even in town 24 hours.
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This time around, we were determined to make the most of our time. With my birthday hitting on Saturday, we decided to drive up on early Sunday morning to maximize our budget and drive time. We left mid-day on Monday to head home, which gave us just over a day to spend around town. If you’re able to get a quick flight or have an unexpected weekday off, here’s how I would play it.
STAY: Aria Resort & Casino
This modern marvel is located near the middle of the Strip (Las Vegas Blvd.), and is one of Vegas’s newer options. The casino is CLEAN – unlike some of their older counterparts, the Aria avoids the smoky smell and provides plenty of slots and dining options. If clubbing is your thing, Steve Aoki is a regular at the JEWEL Nightclub, located on-site.
EAT: Bellagio Buffet
Can you honestly go to Vegas and NOT try one of the buffets? No need to take after Cousin Eddie – the Bellagio buffet is worth two plates. From succulent crab legs to freshly made sushi, everyone can find something. Plus, for $14.99, you can enjoy all-you-can-drink mimosas.
EAT: Mon Ami Gabi
I have legitimately been craving the crepes from Mon Ami Gabi since we first visited in 2015. They. Are. DELICIOUS. Plus, you can reserve a table on the patio and enjoy a great view of the Bellagio fountains.
DO: Cirque Du Soleil
Ignore what you recently heard about the Cirque Du Soleil acrobat accident and commit to seeing at LEAST one show. There are 9 to choose from along the Strip – I recommend KÀ at the MGM Grand if this isn’t your first rodeo, or Mystère at Treasure Island for first-timers. Both have incredible stage presence, costumes, music and acrobatics. The shows are off on Monday and Tuesday, so if you go our route, be sure to purchase tickets on Vegas.com before you get in town. If you’re able to stay for more than 24 hours, hit the Tix4Tonight booths located along the strip for tickets.
PLAY: Slots!
Look, if gambling isn’t your thing, you can still have fun in Vegas. If it is, I highly recommend setting a budget for yourself! We are expert slot players – we identify the digital slot with the lowest last payout (indicating it may be ready for a win!) and spin 5 times on a middle bet. If you don’t hit a free spins in that time, cash out and move on. This method helped Andy win $68 last time. I unfortunately didn’t follow my own advice and stuck to Roulette. Hence why my $80 was gone quickly.
Have you been to Las Vegas? What is your must-see spot?
The Parks Department 