Guide to Hot Las Vegas Nightlife on the Strip

Bright lights. Glamorous fashions. Hot nightclubs that stay open until daybreak. If the above descriptions appeal to you, then a trip to Vegas is in order. To make your trip easier, I've compiled a list of the hot spots that you can't miss. As soon as the sun goes down, the Vegas Strip begins to heat up. Never fear - there's something in Vegas for everyone! I've rated the stops by price, with $ meaning very reasonable, $$ meaning moderately priced, $$$ meaning fairly expensive, and $$$$ meaning that you might want to hit the ATM before you head out.

1. To start the night off right, book a fine meal at Gallagher's Steakhouse in New York-New York (3790 S. Las Vegas Boulevard). Based off of it's sister branch in New York, Gallagher's provides a fabulous meal complete with heaping portions. During my visit, my party was lucky enough to reserve a VIP table, which was set off from the rest of the diners. Treat yourself to a 21-day aged filet mignon ($43) and select a side of veggies; I added the mashed potatoes ($9), which were outstanding. If you have a larger group, you may want to try the Chilled Medley of Seafood. Though it runs a hefty $115, it includes lobster, shrimp cocktail, oysters, clams and salmon and serves 4 - 6 people. For menu information, check out http://www.gallaghersnysteakhouse.com/. $$$

2. If your stomach isn't too stuffed from dinner, stick around New York New York and take a quick ride on the roller coaster. You'll get a great view of the strip below as you are hurtling through the air at 67mph. The coaster hits a maximum height of 203 feet and includes many twists and turns. You can commemorate your trip by purchasing a photo of you on the roller coaster. See http://www.nynyhotelcasino.com/entertainment/entertainment_therollercoaster.aspx for more info. $

3. It's time for a quick drink - what better place to stop than Kahunaville? Located in Treasure Island, this bar/restaurant offers delicious tropical drinks. On the weekend, the bar is open from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 A.M. on weekdays and from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 A.M. on weekends. At Kahunaville, I had a delicious Mai Tai that was enhanced with a gummy worm! Kahunaville features flair bartending, dueling pianos, a dancing stage, and a DJ. This is a fun stop for any traveler! $$

4. If you're interested in a show, adults 18 and over can check out Zumanity, which is a production by Cirque du Soleil. Zumanity combines the gymanstic moves that performers are known for, along with a bit of raciness. As there is nudity involved, the age limit is strictly enforced. Tickets range from $141 per person for Duo Sofas to $75.90 per person for balcony seats. For reservations, book at http://www.cirquedusoleil.com. $$ - $$$

5. For a free and quick activity to take in before hitting another club, check out the Fountains at Bellagio. From 8:00 until midnight, the fountain show runs every 15 minutes. Synched nicely with music, the water show is designed so nicely that it appears to be dancing. The show lasts about five minutes and is a must see for all travelers. Free!

6. Since you're in Vegas, you have to add a bit of gambling to your trip. One location to try is Paris, a lovely hotel that features a replica of the Eiffel Tower. The gaming in Paris offers Keno, Slots, Table Games, Sports and Horse Betting, and Poker. The lovely Parisian setting just might help you take your mind off of the money you've already spent! More information is located at http://www.harrahs.com/casinos/paris-las-vegas/casino-gambling/index.html.
$$ (or whatever your gambling budget is!)

7. Want to mingle with celebrities? If so, you might want to try Ghostbar, a hip lounge located on the 55th floor of the Palms. Ghostbar features indoor and outdoor settings, giving you a chance to check out the view of the strip from high above. Try the specialty drink, the Ghostini, which features Midori, sour mix, and Absolut. Reservations are strongly suggested, and proper evening attire is required. For special events, see http://www.n9negroup.com/#/ghostbar/main/. $$$

8.
For a romantic evening out, you also might want to try Romance at the Top of the World, located in the Stratosphere. With a dark and romantic ambiance, this lounge is sure to set the mood for a quixotic evening. You'll also get a great view of the Strip down below. Visit http://www.stratospherehotel.com/nightlife/romance_at_the_top_of_the_world.cfm for details. $$

9. Since you're already at the Stratosphere, you might want to shake things up by trying some of the rides located on top of the building. You can try the Big Shot, which is a drop-style ride in which you are lifted slowly up and dropped quickly, the X-Scream, which is like a mini-roller coaster that takes you over the edge of the building, or Insanity, a swing ride that extends over the side of the building. For admission to the sightseeing tower and all three rides, each guest will pay $27.95. Warning: these rides are not for those who are afraid of heights! For more information about the rides, see http://www.stratospherehotel.com/thrills/.

10. And finally, for the club-goer, a must-visit spot is PURE Nightclub, located in Caesar's Palace. PURE offers a range of celebrities, including the Pussycat Dolls, DJ AM, Criss Angel, and Paris Hilton. PURE is broken into many rooms, such as the Main Room, which includes beds for guests to relax on. The Red Room features VIP seating and a bar area, and the Terrace offers an outdoor bar/seating area. Be prepared to spend a bit of money and time waiting to get in, but if you love celebs, this is the place for you! See http://www.purethenightclub.com for a list of events and celebrity sightings. $$$

With so much nightlife, not all of Vegas can be conquered in one trip. Hopefully, the above suggestions will give you a blend of drinking, dancing, and relaxing, all in one trip. So book your flight, grab your friends, and head out for an exciting experience on the Strip!