We all know that Las Vegas is synonymous with sin. Gambling, sex, money, power, overindulgence – all are ways of life there. It’s the entertainment capital of the world, and its reputation has changed drastically over the past 30 years.
But what can you do if you’re under 21? Funny you should ask: I lived in Las Vegas during my high school years, and I was surprised at the amount of activities for young people. For those above the cutoff, the sky’s the limit. But first, here’s a list I compiled for those under the drinking age:
Many casinos off the strip have movie theaters, arcades and bowling alleys located inside. Head to Sunset Station, located at 1301 W. Sunset Road, for “Cosmic Bowling,” which includes booming club music, lanes that glow in the dark and strobe lights.
Are you into roller coasters? You’ve come to the right place. The Stratosphere alone offers four different rides, all crammed on top of the 1,149-foot tower, the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States. My favorite ride is the Big Shot, located on the needle, which shoots you up in the air and lets you dangle for a bit, looking out onto a sea of endless lights.
The New York New York Hotel & Casino also has a ride called the “Manhattan Express” that drops you 144 feet, has multiple loops and goes up to 67 mph. Hold on to your hat, because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.
The Sahara and the Adventure Dome in Circus Circus also boast many high-speed thrill rides.
Do you love animals? Head on over to Mandalay Bay’s mesmerizing “Shark Reef,” where you’re sure to spot sawfish, giant sting rays, piranhas and even golden crocodiles. Or check out the Mirage’s many animal sanctuaries, including dolphins and the famous white Bombay tigers.
Have a little brother obsessed with video games? Take him to GameWorks, located on the center of The Strip. This 47,000 square-foot structure has more than 250 video games, not to mention the world’s tallest free-standing rock climbing wall. I’ll tell you one thing – it feels damn good to ring that bell once you reach the top, especially once a crowd has formed to watch you!
And last, but not least, is the Fremont Street Experience. Now known as “Downtown,” this spectacle is the world’s tallest lightshow, and it goes on 90 feet above your head. Kink your neck and watch 2.1 million lights dance above you, and you’ll feel like you’re in your own alternate universe (then again, maybe you are.)
And now, for the 21 and up crowd: It’s true what they say -Las Vegas is an adult’s playground. From the moment you step off the plane, you are bombarded with the sounds of ringing slot machines and the prospects of winning or losing all your money. My father’s favorite casinos are at the Bellagio and the Wynn, which are also by far the most sophisticated on The Strip.
As far as nightclubs are concerned, I hear that Body English at the Hard Rock is a celebrity haven and the Ghost Bar atop the Palms is always happening. Tryst, at the Wynn, is also up there, along with Jet at the Mirage and Tangerine at Treasure Island. Basically, any club you go to in Vegas is bound to be amazing, but you better be willing to shell out the big bucks to secure a coveted table.
And now for my favorite part – the food. Ever since Wolfgang Puck brought his talent here, the city’s culinary standards have been raised. Speaking of Wolfgang, head over to Caesars Palace and dine at Spago or Chinois to taste some of the most delectable dishes on earth. My other favorite restaurants include Circo at the Bellagio (which boasts a spectacular view of the dancing fountains) and SW at the Wynn, the award-winning steakhouse that has its own hidden water show and the most dedicated staff I know.
And leaving the best for last, we come to the entertainment. With several Cirque du Soleil shows running simultaneously (including O, Mystere and KA), these French Canadians have officially taken over Las Vegas. Blue Man Group, Stomp Out Loud and Monty Python’s Spamalot are all wonderful shows to attend with friends and family. Magicians including Chris Angel, Steve Wyrick and Lance Burton are all spectacular performers who will astound you time and time again.
So there you have it, folks. There are a million things to do in Sin City, so get out there!
Who knows? You might just get lucky.
