Okay so I’ve finally managed to get this together- so sorry for the delay! I had such a fantastic time in Las vegas, but I really didn’t do any of the normal Vegas things (ie. I never stepped foot in a club).Long story short, I wanted to share some of my favourite spots for those of you looking for a similarly off the grid experience next time you visit.
My biggest tip would be to take a day and walk all the way down the strip to downtown- you’ll find a seemingly endless array of wedding chapels, quirky gift shops, and run down pastel motels (often abandoned) along the way. It’s the best route to really see the city if that’s what you’re after, and don’t worry, there’s a bus you can hop on if you find you can’t stand the desert heat.
As far as actual shops, restaurants, and attractions go, Here’s a little roundup of my favourite finds:
Food and Drinks
Grassroots Juice Bar– healthy and delicious, this juice bar lives in a beautiful refurbished building downtown, and it’s the best spot to get a massive healthy smoothie after a night (or day) of drinking.
O Face Donuts– Located right next door to Grassroots, O face offers all sorts of deep-fried delights. We tried the cinnamon toast crunch “fork and knife” donut, but there are so many incredible rotating artisan flavours (like rosewater pistachio, Pina Colada Fritter, and Mexican Chocolate w/ Horchata Pudding). The best part? They have Vegan donuts on offer too!
Shake Shack– An NYC favourite, the veggie burger here is a cheese-stuffed mushroom cap that’s been deep fried, and it is way too good. Pair it with fresh fries and a frozen custard shake, and you’ve got yourself the perfect Las Vegas lunch.
Any of the restaurants at The Wynne– Okay so the Wynne is very fancy (they wouldn’t let us into the buffet because Emmett was in a tank top), so make sure you cover up a bit before heading over, but other than that it’s a vegetarian diner’s dream. Every restaurant in the hotel offers a separate vegetarian/vegan menu, and they’re very sensitive to dietary restrictions. If you don’t want to get too gussied up, check out the poolside patio at the Terrace Point Cafe (my favourite breakfast on the strip by far).
Javier’s Cantina– Mexican food at it’s best. I highly recommend the strawberry margaritas, nachos, mushroom spinach enchiladas… okay pretty much everything!
Entertainment (aka FUN)
The Chandelier Bar– a truly magical experience, this cocktail bar lets you lounge and sip inside of a giant crystal chandelier. If you’re feeling adventurous ask for the secret drink with the magical flower- it doesn’t disappoint!
The Polaroid Museum– located in the new Linq hotel (one of my favourites design-wise), this museum is totally free, and it’s filled with amazing old polaroids and rainbow decor. Definitely a must-see for photo nerds.
The Neon Boneyard (aka Neon Museum)– If I had to make you do only one thing in Vegas, this would definitely be it. Not only is it a wonderful photo op, it’s also a great chance to learn about the epic history of Las Vegas, plus the design and skill behind those old neon signs. Just make sure you buy your tickets in advance- you have to take a guided tour, and they’re often sold-out.
Sprinkles Cupcake ATM– the novelty of an atm that presents little pink boxes containing cupcakes can never really get old, right?
The Flamingo Hotel– Though it’s a little run-down compared to the other hotels on the strip, the Flamingo is super charming, and there’s so much pink everywhere you turn! Explore the tropical gardens, wander through the bright casino, and if you’re not afraid to spend a bit be sure to stop into the big flamingo-filled gift shop.
Britney Spears– okay so I didn’t actually get to go to this, but how could it not be amazing right? Someone report back! Please
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
