Think you know Las Vegas? Think again. There'sso much more to this city than gambling tables and star-studded concerts. And no matter how many times you've been, there's a hidden Vegasthat the residentskeep to themselves. Itapped into a handful ofin-the-know expertsand convinced these lady bosses to sharetheir favorite secret finds. From placeswhere artists gofor inspirationto secret celebrity shopping spots to the coolestoff-the-Strip gems, this is the Las Vegas list you need to have.
For more amazingVegas addresses, check out "Best Las Vegas Restaurants: 25 Secret Spots Where The Locals Eat."And if you want inspiration for amazing — and affordable — places to travel this year, check out"The 38 Cheapest Places To Travel In 2019."
This James Turrell installation is hidden away in a shop.
Photo courtesy of Louis VuittonWhat: A Secret Light Show
Recommended By: Jessica Galindo, fine artist, leatherwear designer and owner of Leather Couture in Summerlin
What:One of artist James Turrell's most dazzlinginstallations,Akhob,is tucked away inside aLouis Vuitton store. It's exquisitely executed and such an experiencethat you must have a reservation to see it, no shoes, only a few people at a time. You are escorted by an exhibit representative whoexplains the magnitude of the experience. Yes — it's more an experience than a visual art show. If you allow it, it takes you out of Las Vegas and out of your own thoughts. An amazing must-see. In fact, the permanent installation is so exciting that it has inspired Vegas toinstall other permanent art fixtures around the city.Reservations bookup a monthout, so call ahead (702/730-3150).
The dramatic Valley of Fire State Park. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
What: LandscapesWorth the Drive
Recommended By:Dorit Schwartz, a Vegas-based artist whose work is carried at The Wynn and is currently on exhibit at Delano Las Vegas
Where: I love going to the Valley of Fire,which feels like a work of art. It is roughly a 40-minute scenic drive from Las Vegas. White Domes is one of my favorite sections: This is where you will see fiery red rocks andsandstone formations with brilliant contrasting colors of white, lavender and purple. Aside from the visual aspect, people enjoy coming to this park for the spiritual aspect, using the area to meditate and connect with their inner selves.There's apurity and serenity that surrounds this desert wilderness.
Golfing, Vegas style.
Photo courtesy of Topgolf Las VegasWhat: Top Golfing
Recommended By:Denise Valdez, 8 News Nowanchor(follow her onTwitterandFacebook)
Where: There are only so many shows, slot machines and clubs you can take before you need some sunshine and fresh air. Topgolf is a four-level sporting and entertainment complex at the MGM Grand. Grab a climate controlled bay on the third floor for the best views of the enormous TVscreens and driving range. Hackers to competitors will enjoy swinging clubs and hitting targets with balls that score themselves. You can take a dip in the sexy swimming pool or settle in to watch sports on one of the hundreds of HDTV's. Topgolf is a fun spot for a corporate event or with family — everyone will find something to enjoy here.
Soaring over the Vegas skyline.
Photo courtesy of Maverick HelicoptersWhat: Once-in-a-LifetimeViews
Recommended By:Amy Rossetti,founder and CEO, Rossetti Public Relations
Where: Las Vegas is surrounded by many must-see natural wonders, such as the grandiose Grand Canyon, red sandstone-brimming Valley of Fire and post-volcanic Fortification Hill, as well as structures like the Hoover Dam and the beautiful resorts of the Strip. So what better way to experience it all than with a bird’s-eye view on Maverick Helicopters’ Dream Catcher Sunset Tour, which takes guests across Nevada and Arizona in four hours. For a unique experience, guests can request their preferred music by speaking with their pilot, which really personalizes the trip. I can’t tell you how much I loved flying over the Strip at sunset while listening to Frank Sinatra — it was truly breathtaking. (Another place to get a greatview: a terrace from a room at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, locatedin the heart of the Strip.)
Under the big top in Vegas: Absinthe.
Photo courtesy of AbsintheWhat: The Show You Must See
Recommended By:Shannon McBeath, co-founder ofThe Ride, premium indoor cycling studio;and Jessica Galindo, fine artist, leatherwear designer and owner of Leather Couture in Summerlin
Where:Shannon McBeath:Absinthe is my pick for best show on the Strip and my go-to when friends are in town. Circus-style entertainment (think Cirque du Soleil) with breathtaking acts combined with incredibly funny and provocative humor in an intimate setting. Lovethe tableside VIP champagne tables.
Jessica Galindo:Favorite show to date. Smushed into a cozy, almost too-close-for-comfort seating arrangement inside a tent in the back of Caesars hotel, this show is ballsy, scary, thrilling, jaw-dropping and badass. I recommend everyone see it once, and I feel like it's a show that locals can see over and over again and not be bored of it. It's a bit brass, but the acts are just incredible. Once isn't enough.
Patina Decor stocks vintage clothes and more.
Photo courtesy of Patina Decor/FacebookWhat: Incredible Vintage Shopping
Recommended By: Andrea Bennett, editor-in-chief, Vegas and Wynn magazines; #thevegasedit
Where: I love a good vintage caftan—in fact, they’ve become the staple of my evening wardrobe. I have found the best ones at Patina Décor, whose owners, Kate Aldrich and Tim Shaffer, source the absolute finesttreasures, from vintage clothing to furniture to décor. Because their mid-mod furniture is so high-end, they sell a lot via 1stdibs.com, so what you see in the store is a fraction of what they have. It pays to get to know them if you’re looking for something specific: They’re always on the lookout for pieces for their celebrity clientele.
Ugo Rondinone's Seven Magic Mountains (2016).
Photo by Gianfranco Gorgoni, Courtesy of Art Production Fund and Nevada Museum of ArtWhat: Artin the Desert
Recommended By:Elizabeth Blau, founder andCEOof restaurant development company Blau + Associates,restaurateur and co-owner of Honey Salt,Andiron Steak & Seaand Buddy V’s
Where: So many people never make it off of the Strip, which is understandable, given all that is on offer. However, a little time in the car is worthwhile when you consider the incredible sites surrounding Las Vegas. One of my new favorites is Ugo Rondinone's Seven Magic Mountains, a 20-minute drive from the Strip. These neon rock installations measure30- to 35-feet high andare particularly beautiful at dusk (or dawn). A little longer drive is the ghost town of Rhyolite, which has a unique collection of outdoor sculptures.
The Ride, a hip spinning studio in Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of The RideWhat: Where Locals Get in Shape
Recommended By:Judy Stone,marketing and event consultant specializing in luxury clients (follow her on Instagram)
Where:Fitness is a big pastime in Las Vegas, and the newest fitness hotspot is The Ride, a premium indoor cycling center. Owned and operated by three of Las Vegas’ top social influencers, The Ride completely reinvents indoor cycling, yet stays true to the core elements that cycling enthusiasts have come to love. The facility is one of the most luxurious spin studios you’ll ever see and features a state-of-the-art sound and light system within a curved, stadium-style room. Basically, there isn’t a bad bike. If you get lucky, you may even get to take a class from cycling celeb Brandon Mills of Hollywood Cycle fame, who pops in as a guest instructor from time to time.
A rare tome at Amber Unicorn Books.
Photo courtesy of Amber Unicorn BooksWhat:One of the BestBookstores Anywhere
Recommended By:Amy Rossetti,founder and CEO, Rossetti Public Relations
Where: As a vintage cookbook collector, I discovered a gem in the valley: Amber Unicorn Books, which has an impressive selection of science fiction, fantasy, metaphysical, self-help, art, theater and film titles. However, my favorite aspect is that it holds the most renowned collection of more than 15,000 traditional, unique and rare cookbooks. I came across some of my most prized collections at this store: a 1905 and 1899 copy ofThe White House Cook Book,as well as the 1994 Cuisine des Quatre Saisonsby Joël Robuchon, which I even had signed by Robuchon himself. The shop’s remarkable selection is only outdone by the owners’ passion for their books, who want customers to not only buy these rarities, but to treasure them just as much as they do.
Dogs gone wild at the Hydrant Club
Photo courtesy of the Hydrant ClubWhat: Pet-Friendly Vegas
Recommended By:Denise Valdez, 8 News Nowanchor(follow her onTwitterandFacebook);andCindy O’Keefe, senior vice president/assistant general manager,Golden Nugget Las Vegas
Where:Cindy O’Keefe: Las Vegas has becomeincreasingly pet friendly. Dog parks and pet boutiques abound, but some of my dog Hunter's most recent interests includestopping by Downtown's Hydrant Club, a members-only dog park or hanging out at his favorite local stomping grounds, The District at Green Valley Ranch, a multi-use spot with concerts, food, shops and more. And atthe Golden Nugget, it's not uncommon to findHunter visiting oneof his favorite places:the Tank, where you can viewsharks up close.
Denise Valdez:With so many hotels herebecoming dog friendly, don't be surprised to see Spot striding through a lobby — pluspotty stations up and down the Strip. There's plenty for you and your best friend to do off the Strip, too. Off-leash parks like Kellogg Zaher or Barkin' Basin are great waysfor dogsto burn off energy and let you chat with other pet lovers. For a day of beauty, check out Bogart's Bone Apetit, which even serves doggie pizza.
The drive to Mount Charleston. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
What: Snow!
Recommended By:Amy Rossetti,founder and CEO, Rossetti Public Relations
Where: When moving to the West Coast, I never thought I would have easyaccess to snow in the winter. Las Vegas is full of surprises, but to my amazement, less than an hour away from the hustle-bustle of the Strip lays Mt. Charleston, which is covered in snow during the winter season. At the top of Kyle Canyon, visitors can check out Mt. Charleston’s Lodge, which features spectacular mountain peak views, skiing, dining and rustic cabins high above theVegas valley. It allows for a beautiful getaway into nature.
Downtown Container Park.
Photo courtesy of Downtown Container ParkWhat: A Cool One-Stop Destination
Recommended By:Jennifer Lynn, senior director of spa and wellness, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas
Where: Downtown Container Park is aunique shopping and restaurant scene built in and around shipping containers. It is family-friendly and a great place to go during the day or in the evening. Look forthe wild mantis sculpture out front.
Bright looks at The Hair Standard.
Photo courtesy of The Hair StandardWhat: Beauty Insider
Recommended By:Shannon McBeath, co-founder ofThe Ride, premium indoor cycling studio
Where:My go-to for hair and facials (and no need to fly to L.A.) is The Hair Standard,achic salon in Summerlin. My hairstylist, Alissa Smith, has been doing cuts, color and styles for my daughter and me for over fiveyears. My husband also frequents her for a trim every three weeks. In the same salon is facialist Grace Ferreri (convenient, right?). Grace gives a decadent facial with wonderful European products that include dermaplane, peels and waxing. She is known for her amazing neck and shoulder massage, as well as men’s grooming.
The private shopping at the Shops at Crystals can't be beat.
Photo courtesy of the Shops at CrystalsWhat: The Most PrivateShopping
Recommended By:Judy Stone,marketing and event consultant specializing in luxury clients (follow her on Instagram); andElizabeth Blau, founder andCEOof restaurant development company Blau + Associates,restaurateur and co-owner of Honey Salt,Andiron Steak & Sea and Buddy V’s
Where: Judy Stone: Vegas takes shopping to a whole new level at The Shops at Crystals, which has boutiques fromall the big names. What most people don't know is that if you're a big spender and can’t break away from the tables long enough, many of these luxury brands will come to you. Roberto Cavalli will provide you with a personally curated pop-up shop featuring a one-of-a-kind capsule collection and made-to-measure gowns, along with accessories. For men, Ermenegildo Zegna will conduct an entire fitting in your hotel suite. AndPrada has a secret entrance that leads to a secret VIP dressing room, which is used for high-profile guests (Bruno Mars and JLo have entered this way).
Elizabeth Blau: Everyone knows that Las Vegas has incredible shopping, but sometimes it can be a little overwhelming, that's why a lot of in the know locals use personal shoppers. You get the best stuff and the best deals — and it makes a quick trip to the Strip so much easier. Personally, I rely on Jenna Doughton to keep me in season and in style.
A new Peter Lik Fine Art Gallery location at Caesars.
Photo courtesy of Peter Lik Fine Art GalleryWhat: Larger-Than-LifeGalleries
Recommended By: Dorit Schwartz, a Vegas-based artist whose work is carried at The Wynn and is currently on exhibit at Delano Las Vegas
Where: It’s not only gaming here in Las Vegas:We can’t ignore the art that we feature in our local galleries. Like the Bellagio Gallery Fine Art, where you can gain new knowledge ofdifferent techniques. There is also the Peter Lik Fine Art Gallery, which has locations around the city (including anew one at Caesars). The gallery carriesphotographs by Peter Lik himself and works from artists all over the world, likeDale Chihuly, Richard MacDonald and Brett Wesley.
Zip-lining over Bootleg Canyon.
Photo courtesy of FlightlinezWhat: Modern-Day Bootlegging
Recommended By:Alyssa Bushey, vice president, marketing, RockOrange
Where: The topography around Las Vegas allows for a lot of outdoor adventures, which as a visitor to the typical Vegas experience, one might not expect. Bootleg Canyon earned its nameduring prohibition from the bootleggers who brewed illegal alcohol in stills hidden in draws and arroyos then moved it through the canyon. Today, Bootleg Canyon is the site forzip-lining andmany hiking and mountain biking trails.There’s also fantastic trail running in the desert. It is beautiful to go at dawn before it gets too hot and watch the sun rise over the Joshua trees.Red Rock Canyon, only 30 minutes from the Strip, is a breathtaking place to hike. And less than an hour away is Mount Charleston, with snow-capped trails and skiing throughout the winter.
A hatbox creation from Celebration Cakes at Wynn Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of Jeff Green/Wynn Las VegasWhat: Cakes as Art
Recommended By: Andrea Bennett, editor-in-chief, Vegas and Wynn magazines; #thevegasedit
Where: Wynn Las Vegas has the most amazing secrets tucked away — including Flora Aghababyan, a master cake artist who can translate absolutely anything into cake. Your favorite red-soled shoes, heart-shaped Valentine's boxes bursting with fondant flowers, even a spot-on sugar interpretation of Bavaria's famous Benedictine monastery, Ettal Abbey. Last Christmas, she re-created Wynn itself, in 35 pounds of gingerbread and 30 pounds of fondant, encircled by a frosting ice mountain and dancing penguins. I recently saw a cake she made inspired by the gold, white and green interior of the ornate Wing Lei restaurant. Local friends of the Wynn had tapped her as a resource, so Wynn made her services available to anyone (even if you're not a guest) through their new Celebration Cakes service. Just give her 48 hours — or five days notice for an elaborate custom design. And feel free to get crazy: She loves a challenge.
The glittering displays at Jewelry and Mineral of Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of Jewelry and Mineral of Las VegasWhat: TreasureShopping
Recommended By:Jennifer Lynn, senior director of spa and wellness, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas
Where: Looking for a distinctive shopping adventure at an extremely unique store? Jewelry and Mineral of Las Vegas offers some of the most amazingimports from around the world. Enjoy perusing the aisles of this rare storefront. You will find crystals, minerals, fossils and various treasures imported from all corners of the world. They have been in business for over 26 years and have collected some of the most interesting artifacts, semi-precious stones and metaphysical supplies. You can find some great gifts and souvenirs to take home.
Las Vegas is full of charming residential neighborhoods. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
What: Serenity in Sin City
Recommended By:Denise Valdez, 8 News Nowanchor(follow her onTwitterandFacebook)
Where: Just a stone's throw from the neon lights of Las Vegas is the quiet and quaint community of Scotch 80's. A pocket of ranch-style homes from the 50's and 60's, which are close enough to hear the squeal of riders high atop the Stratosphere and far enough for a peaceful walk down mulberry-lined streets. The neighborhood has long attracted casino owners, world-famous entertainers and Vegas influencers. Spacious lots offer seclusion and privacy compared to the master developments of urban sprawl found in other parts of the valley. You can ride your bike to Downtown Las Vegas or be in a seat at a Cirque du Soleil show in 10minutes. It's a mix of old-school living and new-school attractions that makes this neighborhood a jewel in the desert.
Spa with a view at the Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas.
Photo courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Las VegasWhat: Healthy Living
Recommended By:Alyssa Bushey, vice president, marketing, RockOrange
Where: Health and wellness isn’t something people associate with Las Vegas, but the spas on and off the Strip are a great way to rehydrate. On the Strip, I would recommend the spa at the Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas or Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace. One of my lesser known favorite spots is Imperial Spa, a Korean spa that is open 24 hours a day and has multiple revitalizing (and cheap!) treatments and experiences including a rejuvenating yellow jade room.
Colorful diamonds at Huntington Jewelers.
Photo courtesy of Huntington JewelersWhat: ShowstoppingJewelry
Recommended By: Andrea Bennett, editor-in-chief, Vegas and Wynn magazines; #thevegasedit
Where: I have a jewelry problem, and while I love to go to all the jewelers on the Strip, I troll Huntington Jewelersfor unique estate jewelry. John Nichols found the perfect diamond for the engagement ring we designed together several years ago, and I’ve been going to him ever since. I have him to thank for my fabulous Christmas present: a gorgeous set of perfectly matched aquamarine and diamond earrings and ring.
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