From Red Rocks to Pad Thai, You Won’t Even Miss the Strip
A few things come to mind when you think of Las Vegas: the strip, crazy clubs, endless gambling and lots of partying all weekend long. People forget, however, that Las Vegas is a whole city with master-planned communities, endless outdoor activities and local businesses to support. If you’ve made the drive to Vegas more times than you’d like to admit—and are over the whole party scene—it’s time to experience Vegas like a local. Switch up the scenery and take a mini vacay. Off the Strip Las Vegas
1 | But First, Toast
Fuel your day with a stop at Toast Society Cafe. This female-founded gourmet toast and wellness bar is for avocado toast lovers and coffee connoisseurs alike. Whether you have a sweet tooth or a savory craving, there is a toast for you. You’ll be the perfect amount of full for your next stop…
2 | Get Outdoors
Just about 30 minutes from your breakfast stop is the beautiful Red Rock Canyon. Take a drive to hike up the orange and red rocks. Not into hiking? Go for the 13-mile Scenic Drive where you can and ooh and ahh from the comfort of your car. Get your hiking shoes on and soak up the desert sun, but here’s a heads up: Red Rock is a National Park and charges $15 per vehicle to enter.
3 | Lunch Time
Founded in Las Vegas, SkinnyFATS is a true local spot (and they now have locations in Texas and Utah!). Do you love to indulge or would you rather stick to a healthy meal? Whether you’re a healthy or happy eater, SkinnyFATS has a menu for you…literally. Their unique half-healthy, half-happy menu boasts selections like Naked Chix (healthy), Sweet Cheese Us (happy) and Stuff on Curry (happy). Don’t leave without trying their on-tap beer selection!
4 | Flashy, Lights, Lights
The Neon Museum collects and preserves iconic Las Vegas signs. Day or night, experience the history and evolution of Las Vegas from a unique perspective, while snapping some epic photographs.
5 | Downtown Stroll
Take a walk down Fremont St and around downtown Las Vegas where you’ll find street performers, flashing lights and concerts. It’s quite the sight to see. Did you forget you can drink in public here?
6 | Drunken Noodles
Since you’re already downtown, don’t miss out on dinner at Le Thai. With mouthwatering Thai food, a beer garden in back and local DJs performances on the weekend, this is the vibe you’re searching for. Try Chef Dan Coughlin’s famous three-color curry.
7 | Drinks On Me
A local’s favorite, Commonwealth has a rooftop dance floor, downtown views and hand-crafted cocktails––all that makes for a night to remember. With a setting that includes industrial brick walls and sparkling chandeliers, try cocktails like the Beach Blanket (spiced rum, brown simple syrup, lime juice and pineapple juice) and the Hot Mess (Bacardi dragon berry rum, fresh lime juice, muddled strawberries, simple syrup and a splash of soda).
Taylor is a graduate from the University of Southern California with a degree in journalism. She is our Los Angeles and Orange County editor. You can find her dining at a new restaurant, in the ocean or planning her next adventure. Say hello!
