Do Vegas like a Local

Las Vegas isn't just about gambling, drinking, eating, and going to risqué shows. No, there's a lot more to Sin City than that. And who knows that better than a local? Come along with me on an outing to Red Rock Canyon and Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa.

Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa is continually voted "Best Locals Casino" in the Las Vegas Review Journal for the "Best of Las Vegas," and I can see why. This is my new favorite Las Vegas resort-on the "Strip" or otherwise. I'd like to live there or at least get a regular pool pass (if only they had such a thing) and hang out there every weekend. In fact, so enthralled by everything I saw, I booked a massage for the following day. I couldn't return to such a fabulous place.

The beautiful surroundings begin as soon as you drive into the parking lot. Majestic palms draw your attention, instead of the regular asphalt jungle you encounter on other properties. In fact, you find yourself circling the property just to admire the outside of the building, with interesting-looking restaurants offering outside access, instead of having to wander the casino, if you're rather not.

But, unlike other local casinos, there's a freshness to the air inside, instead of the wafting smoke you can't help but inhale elsewhere. It looks and feels like a strip casino-certainly they have the same effective ventilation system. We toured the property, making note of what we wanted to do on future trips, had a quick lunch at Salt Lick BBQ for some Texas-style barbecue, and then headed outside. The day was too beautiful to stay inside.

We then drove out to Red Rock Canyon, toured the visitor center, and then drove the 13-mile scenic drive winding through the red rocks. I really love the desert and adventure-type outings in the desert are especially fun. The people you meet along the way are so friendly and you share a common bond. Next time we'll be more prepared and go on one of the hikes.

An interesting activity is to combine both the Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa with an outdoor outing, such as the Adventure Spa package or have them prepare a picnic lunch for you to take to Red Rock Canyon.

I booked a 50-minute Swedish Massage and no wonder the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa gets the vote for "best locals spa." I'm not sure any strip spa could be any better for the price, especially for locals who get a discount on treatments and/or a day pass where you can use all of the facilities. What made this spa stand out for me was the private outdoor pool, complete with cabana and cabana service. Nobody does poolside service better than Vegas, and it's fabulous to be able to experience this as a local, too.

But Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa isn't just for locals.There was a group of friendly ladies who were there for "ladies' spa day" while their husbands attended a conference at the resort. Now that's a deal no woman should pass up.