Melo Villareal
(Las Vegas, Nevada) – The world’s gambling mecca, Las Vegas, is just over 100 years old isn’t shocking considering it’s in a country barely twice the city’s age. It is with awe and wonderment, however, at the transformation and modernization Las Vegas has undergone in the short amount of time it has existed. Hard to believe, but at one time, Las Vegas wasn’t much more than a watering stop for travelers on their way to Los Angeles.
Las Vegas Entertainment Capital of the World Photo credit: Bert Kaufmann / Foter / CC BY
Even harder to believe is that gambling wasn’t allowed for a while! Much has changed in a city once infused with an aura of gambling, mobsters, and the quickie divorce that led to the nickname of Sin City. Investors like Steve Wynn have surpassed the early casino owners such as Bugsy Siegel with visions of splendor that rival the Taj Mahal. Families, newlyweds, and “girls’ night out” groups can enjoy and revel in the opulence of a city continually upgrading its physical presence and, therefore, its reputation and attraction.
Something for Everyone
Caesars Palace Las Vegas Photo credit: szeke / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Although not technically within the city limits, the area known as “The Strip” is often included when people refer to the city of Las Vegas. The Strip underwent a significant redesign with new construction and renovation of older buildings. Upgrading has continued resulting in plenty for families to enjoy. Some of the attractions families can look forward to including the world’s most extensive car collection, the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, a replica of the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, a visit to the Mirage where the Siegfried and Roy Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is housed, and what is billed as the most incredible free show in the City, The Fountains at Bellagio. Nothing beats a day at Vegas Indoor Skydiving for those who crave action. Feasible day trips from the city aren’t limited to Hoover Dam, although that is one trip not to be missed. Red Rock Canyon and Zion National Park offer additional opportunities for families to get out and enjoy outdoor activities.
Fit for a Honeymoon
Honeymoon in Nevada Photo credit: Joe Shlabotnik / Foter / CC BY
Watch an old movie or television series, and you are likely to hear couples claim they are headed to Nevada for a quickie divorce. The six-week residency requirement did, in fact, foster migration to the state; however, with over 1500 wedding chapels in Las Vegas, nuptial bliss may overshadow Nevada’s divorce status with over 300 weddings celebrated per day! Newlyweds aren’t ostracized from Vegas action like those seeking a divorce. Honeymoon suites and special marriage packages are offered by almost all the reformed hotel/casino resorts.
Las Vegas lost its shadowy reputation of vice and mob financing in the last decades of the 20th century. Corporate entrepreneurs swept in as the major investors in a city known for decadence, opulence, and questionable morals. Revived with a significant overhaul by visionaries determined to uphold its mystique, The City has been transformed into a vacation destination for all.
Follow the Out of Town Travel Blog on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest if you want more travel and food-related updates.
Read:
- A Vegas Without Shows and Gambling?
- Getting Through Vegas on a Budget
- The Most Popular Islamic Holy Place
