There are a lot of famous sayings out there that piss me off, but the one that peeves me is, “the definition of insanity is doing something the same way over and over and expecting results.” I hate this one so much because it’s absolutely true.
Every time I start a new website, Sin City is one of the topics that I’m most excited to cover. Call it low-hanging fruit if you want, but here’s the problem. People write these long posts titled, “694 Crazy and Unusual Las Vegas Experiences” but they look like this:
- Go to the Las Vegas Strip
- Go to Fremont Street
- Spend $165 on one shrimp at the Stratosphere
- Go to the Seven Magic Mountains
Quite frankly, folks, I think we can do better.
I don’t write this to sneak in affiliate links or advertise something specific. To me, it’s about the enjoyment of watching a place I’ve lived for several years grow and change and relishing in the new places that crop up. So, enjoy!
strip away: explore sin city differently
Coffee Religion
Anyone looking for a relaxing spot of tea and cakes should make the trip out to Coffee Religion. I also highly recommend signing up for their rewards program if you’re a frequent visitor. I also recommend having tea and cakes to feel British AF.
Coffee Class
We all know the Bellagio is luxurious, and this place has the same atmosphere. Put on your most luxe outfit and sip one of their hand-crafted lattes while you take selfies in the chandelier light.
Magnum Coffee Roastery
Magnum is in the perfect location for travelers: right next to the airport. You’ll love it so much that you just might snag a pound of their coffee beans with this Groupon.
Roasted and Toasted
Roasted and Toasted is technically in Henderson, but their fresh food and adorable atmosphere make it the perfect stop when heading out to Boulder City.
Hi-Coffee Cafe
Hi-Coffee is easily one of the most welcoming cafes in Las Vegas. This tropical spot has excellent Hawai’ian dishes, pastries, and authentic Kona beans. Plus, their ube cakes are as colorful as your crazy aunt’s stories at Thanksgiving dinner.
Hellas
For the record, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” is the only rom-com I can tolerate, but don’t go making jokes about it.
Hellas is sparkling clean, and their Greek pastries and dishes are to die for. I get their spinach pie and a Greek coffee every single time. It has that family-owned charm that is reminiscent of a movie restaurant, and it’s easy to let hours slip away.
BG Bistro
Not many tourists would choose Bulgarian cuisine for their out-of-town indulgence, but BG Bistro is one of the only places to get authentic Eastern European food in America. It also happens to be phenomenal.
Pro tip: call ahead to reserve some banitsa. You’ll thank me later.
Capo’s
Here at Poletrotters, we’re huge fans of speakeasies. Capo’s is the Italian restaurant version of that. This is the perfect place to dress up and escape into a world of mobster-style dining that’s sure to please.
Pro tip: to get inside, text 702-364-2276 and ask for Auntie G.
Michael T’s
I fully expected not to like Michael T’s, but it’s a sleeper of a spot. It’s an easy Lyft ride away from the Strip, and their daily specials and homemade desserts are a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. Plus, there’s a Groupon!
Biscuits and Bourbon
Calling all the gluttons that didn’t drink enough Fat Tuesdays on vacation. Biscuits and Bourbon is smack in the middle of downtown Henderson, and from their salt and vinegar pork rinds to their
Rise & Shine: A Steak and Egg Place
Hash House a Go-Go who?
When I say that this is THE best hangover breakfast in the city, I mean it. Their skillets could probably cure major diseases. Head in early for a Bloody Mary or a giant t-bone steak that’s sure to please.
Bob Taylor’s Ranch House
There are two types of steakhouses: wallet-breakers and homestyle joints. Bob Taylor’s falls into the latter category. It’s a bit of a drive from the Strip, but the rustic Southwestern charm makes it the best place for a steak.
Steaks and Beers
As the crown jewel of our restaurants, this is one of the most unique places to go. It’s not close to Sin City, and it’s technically not even in Nevada, so this is definitely one for the ultra-adventurous. Steaks and Beers has a world-class staff and awesome selection, so it’s worth the trip out to the boonies.
Marche Bacchus
It’s hard to believe this place is in Sin City. With a tranquil lakeside atmosphere and French style of cuisine, this is the perfect escape from literally any noise pollution.
Pro tip: buy a bottle of wine in the shop and take it out to the patio to avoid a corkage fee.
Tenaya Creek Brewery
I’ve never seen Tenaya Brewery mentioned on any list, but it deserves a spot on this one. Their beer is GOOD, and they’re not first-timers to the craft beer scene. Tenaya Creek moved to a larger location in 2016 after holding court at a smaller spot downtown.
The Bank at Gambit
Technically, this bar is also in Henderson, but that doesn’t matter. Everything in Las Vegas is 20 minutes away, no matter where you are. The Bank at Gambit is sultry and inviting, and demands to be visited.
Garagiste
Also a new spot, Garagiste is in the arts district. Many have touted it as one of the best new spots, but that’s a call you’ll have to make yourself.
Banger Brewing
Banger Brewing is on Fremont Street, so before anyone bites my head off and says, “but JEN,” this is included in the list because it is my favorite brewery in Nevada.
Ethel M
Ethel M is famous in Las Vegas. Anyone who has flown through the McCarran airport has probably seen their storefront, but the factory is well worth the trip. The chocolate tasting class is both educational and delicious, and sticking around until the end of the session yields a sweet surprise.
After all, who doesn’t love chocolate? Actually, some people don’t, but that’s not an issue at Ethel M’s. There’s a gorgeous cactus garden outside for those people to snack on, I mean look at.
(Sometimes there’s a Groupon for their chocolate experience, so check back!)
Van Gogh exhibit
Ah yes, the Van Gogh experience. The buzz of any major city. Taking a couple of hours out of your day to soak in this splendor may be the best part of your vacation.
Take a pole class
We’ve arrived! No matter your age, gender, or itinerary, a pole dance class is the perfect activity for anyone visiting Las Vegas.
For special occasions, or just dropping in on a really fun class, check out Pole Fitness Studio.
Axe throwing
We’re still pandemic-ing, and that can generate some anger. Throwing axes is the best way to release that anger, and Axehole is the best place to do it.
Gold Strike Hot Springs
Not many tourists visit Las Vegas and think of visiting some hot springs. Nevada is the home of untapped natural beauty, and when the sun isn’t trying to kill you, take a dip in some of the natural springs outside of the city limits.
Lake Las Vegas
No, the Bellagio Fountain is not Lake Las Vegas. Nice try, rookies. Lake Las Vegas is a gorgeous spot to stop in and relax, away from all the action.
River Mountain Loop
Believe it or not, there are hiking trails in Henderson that are even closer to Las Vegas than Red Rock. The River Mountain Loop is a scenic 35 miles of hiking/biking trails that wind through the mountains.
Boulder City
Boulder City is a must-see for anyone that’s burned out on gambling and drinking. For more information that does it justice, read my post here.
Downtown Henderson
The line between Las Vegas and Henderson blurs, so it’s difficult to tell where certain places are. Henderson’s downtown is distinctive, and nothing like the big city. Stroll down the newly-renovated district and stop in for a beer at Lovelady.
Pahrump
Yes, yes, the name is funny. However, Pahrump is a cool spot about an hour outside of Las Vegas. Their gambit is their wineries, but there are caves and nature preserve to check out as well.
Meow Wolf
This is one to catch while in town! Meow Wolf is the brain-bending, psychedelic-friendly interactive experience based out of Area 15 in the heart of the city.
Cork and Thorn
Cork and Thorn is the ideal ladies’ night spot. Tucked away in an unassuming corner of the arts district, this dark and intimate spot features events with live music, unique drinks, and even flower-arranging classes for a fun event that guarantees a souvenir.
International Car Forest
The International Car Forest is the quintessential road trip stop. Located outside of Goldfield, Nevada, the ICF is the themed cousin of Graffiti Park.
maximize your visit
Downtown app
There are areas of Las Vegas that accept discount codes from exploreDTLV, an app that allows you to earn points for free stuff at tons of downtown locations. Use my invite code Z8610 to get $5 off your first time using the app!
Groupon
I’ve been plugging Groupon like it’s my job in this post (which it is, I write for a living.) There are thousands of options for discounted activities in Las Vegas, outside of what’s highlighted here. Sign up for
Rakuten
Rakuten needs no explaining. We’ve all seen the ads for Honey on Youtube, this is the same thing. Use it, peruse it, and abuse it. If desired, use my code to sign up for it!
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