Travel plan idea blog

I've been to Vegas several times and have a few recommendations. Stayed at the Mirage twice and would definitely recommend! Also, at the Monte Carlo - OK, not a whole lot on atmosphere and seemed to be more family oriented, kids and such, and the MGM Grand across the street is huge, but both are very popular. However, they are both further down the Strip and not in as central a location as the Mirage, which I prefer. As far as shopping, you must go to the Shops at the Forum at Caesar's Palace. Absolutely wonderful - the best upscale shops, smaller more exclusive, and the setting in a Roman forum is amazing! In fact, Caesar's is a tradition in itself, paying more attention to atmosphere and service than many of the newer hotels - especially in the casino and the lounges/bars - great piano bar there too.

Las Vegas is one of the most active cities I have ever visited. I think your trip to Las Vegas should remain there. Save the Grand Canyon for another vacation because you should go there for at least three days.
In Las Vegas you have non-stop attractions and food courts. Do not rent a car. You can take a free bus out to Sam's Town or to the Rio. The Deuce takes you downtown for $2.00 if you choose to stay on the strip.
You must see a show. Now there are 1/2 price ticket kiosks and you can go to really great shows for $35-$40.There is a booth at the Fashion Show Mall.
Bring your walking shoes and WALK. If it is really hot, just walk from hotel to hotel and look at the lobby, visit a restaurant or walk through the shopping area. The best is the Forum at Caesars Palace. But Planet Hollywood has a great shopping area called the Miracle Mile Shops.
Location is key when picking a hotel. If you are not interested in spending a lot of money but still want to stay on the strip Imperial Palace, Riviera and Circus Circus are very affordable. Especially if you stay during the week. The best prices are Sunday-Thursday. Excalibur has specials on room rates and that is a great location also.
Whatever you decide to do in Las Vegas, you will not be disappointed. It is just a great fun town.
Have a great trip to one of the most interesting cities in the world. Please write about your trip when you get back.

Your choice of the Mirage is an excellent one. Staying close to the mid-strip area is much easier on the feet. Check for specials at mid-strip hotels often - they are out there. The Flamingo and Harrah's are also good places to stay if you can find a bargain (and I should also throw Treasure Island into the suggestions).

You don't need a full day downtown on Fremont Street - a couple of hours should do it - and the previous poster was correct - the buses run regularly.

In my opinion, the Imperial Palace (although cheap) is dangerous and dirty. Circus-Circus is just too far away from all the things you want to see - if you choose that hotel, plan to take the bus everyday.

And yes, be sure to save some time for the Fashion Show Mall and the Forum Shops!

And one suggestion for good, but reasonable meals - The Victorian Room at the Barbary Coast Hotel. It's right next to the Flamingo and is now called Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon. It's open 24/7 and very comfortable.

Have a great trip!
Ellie Post

I agree that the Imperial Palace is not good! Walked into the casino right off the street, loud and tawdry is the way I would describe it. Turned around and walked out immediately. People are fooled because of its location across from the Mirage - just no comparison at all! Don't plan to go to Vegas in the middle of the summer, very very hot and dry. Walking is a good way to see things, but not for any distance. But Vegas is fun and exciting, food is reasonable and good.

While you're at the Mirage, go see the Cirque du Soleil Beatles Love show!

I went to Vegas for the fourth of July. We found a great deal staying with the Bellagio. I would highly recommend it, but I would recommend that you stay in the Spa tower and not the main location. It's a little out of the way from the casino, but the rooms are larger and its away from the crowds.

If you see the Treasure Island show, you may be able to get into the less crowded, "hotel guest area". There are a slew of hotels owned under the same corporation as Treasure Island. Because we were staying at the Bellagio, we just had to show them our room key and they let us into the restricted area.

We also got to see the Cirque du Soleil show "O" at the Bellagio, which was amazing. The floor changes very frequently through the show from a traditional stage to 12 foot swimming pool. The show continued to amaze me and my husband. We had our jaws open for most of the show.

Our friends went to see the Cirque du Soleil Beatles Love show. They loved the show too, but recommended not sitting in the very front row. They couldn't see as much as they would have liked.

I've been to Vegas a few times before I could gamble and a few times when I could. I remember staying at the MGM and some other places but I don't really care about the hotels. Probably because I'm never in my room. My stays in Vegas are not very memorable because most of the time I'm gambling while enjoying the free, unlimited drinks. The only thing I remember is the awesome buffets, how much money I lost, and how bad I wanted to win the Megabucks. If only I could hit the jackpot on the Megabucks.