The 24-karat gold facial is a must.
The Neon Museum (Photo Courtesy The Neon Museum, E&E Photography)
There’s a freedom that comes with being in Vegas, a state of mind that tells you it’s ok to indulge. Next time you escape work-obsessed Washington for fun-loving Vegas, follow our guide for a stay that’s equal parts relaxing and rambunctious. Here are your spots to eat, sleep, drink and get glamorous.
Photo Courtesy Wyndham Hotels
SLEEP
First things first, check in at the upscale Cromwell Hotel & Casino on the Strip. The 188-room hotel is right at the center of the action and, on top of the prime location, it boasts a bustling casino, well-regarded restaurant, stylish interiors and what locals tell me is one of the hottest (if not THE hottest) nightclubs in town, Drai’s–the multi-level rooftop beachclub and nightclub hosts regular musical acts like Kendrick Lamar and Nicki Minaj. Rooms are sexy and chic with a vintage Parisian flair; you’ll find hardwood floors, plush purple bedding, Hollywood style vanity mirrors and all-glass rainfall showers. Plus, everything’s top-of-the-line after a $185 million renovation in 2014 and with rooms starting at $94 a night, it won’t break the bank.
Photo Courtesy Caesars Palace
BEAUTIFY
There are plenty of opportunities to pamper yourself in the city. Go for a facial first thing and you’ll be glowing all weekend. I highly recommend the Golden Goddess Facial at Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace ($365 on weekdays and $375 on weekends). It’s actually made of 24-karat gold which it turns out is a powerful anti-inflammatory material that repairs aging skin. The treatment runs 80 luxurious minutes long and comes with a massage and a gold mask for the hands, neck and shoulders. For extra indulgence, add the Golden Goddess Body Treatment to your package. While there, don’t forget to take a dip in the rejuvenating Roman Baths.
Post facial, head to Drybar Miracle Mile for a blowout and cocktails. The Vegas location is distinct for being the first and only one with a full bar (serving blowout-themed cocktails), a full-time onsite DJ and an Insta-friendly photo booth that makes prepping for a night out a blast.
Dessert at Rivea (Courtesy Photo)
EAT
Start your day with brunch at the light and airy Giada Restaurant, conveniently located at The Cromwell where you will be staying. The first restaurant from celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis offers open, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Strip and an eclectic menu with fresh ingredients and healthy options– the lobster hash is a must.
For a leisurely lunch, head to Julian Serrano Tapas at ARIA Casino & Resort for small plates and paellas. Ahi tuna cones, seafood zarzuela and imported Spanish serrano ham aged 18 months are a few of the delightful bites from an expansive menu than includes vegan options.
Dinner is best served with views of the city. Look out over the lights while nibbling Italian and French Riviera cuisine at the sophisticated Rivea at Delano Las Vegas, which offers perfectly-cooked steaks and mouth-watering desserts (we only wish the lemon tart was still on the menu). Post-dinner, continue the night with cocktails at Skyfall Lounge.
Seven Magic Mountains (Courtesy Photo)
ART
There are plenty of ways to entertain oneself in Vegas, and seeing quality contemporary art is one that is often overlooked. Even walking through the hotels (the Bellagio in particular, with its conservatory displays) is a feast for the senses. The Neon Museum features more than six acres of signs from old casinos and other businesses. Book a guided tour to see iconic signs from the 1930s, like a fully restored hot pink one from the Liberace Museum.
For a little artistic excursion to the desert, drive 15 minutes outside of the city and find the colorful installation known as the Seven Magic Mountains. The temporary public art installation is free to view and features seven boulders more than 25 feet high by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.
Boyz II Men (Courtesy Mirage Entertainment)
ENTERTAINMENT
Of course this list would not be complete without mentioning Britney Spears and Boyz II Men. Spears recently signed a new deal for a residency at the Park Theater beginning in 2019. And Boyz II Men aren’t going anywhere; Nathan, Shawn and Wanya will sing all the R&B hits that you love, choreographed dance numbers included, at the Mirage through at least December 2018. If death-defying acrobatics are your thing, Cirque du Soliel‘s Michael Jackson tribute show at Mandalay Bay is sure to be thrilling.
