Las Vegas - 1 day in Vegas

A quick trip gives me a layover in Vegas in January and I want suggestions on how to maximize that experience there. Since I only want to hit some of the highlights and Vegas has so many, I will ask the board for suggestions on a hotel to stay at that is reasonably priced (under $100), what events should I take in while there, which casino would be preferred to gamble at and win, which shows would I want to take in (magic, musical, or comedy) and what else to see in Vegas other than the strip. I expect the answers to vary greatly but want to get some concensus on what should not be missed during this quick stopoever.

While I personally didn't like the Alladin, the price was right and the location is excellent. If there were casinos that let you win we would all be there :D :D , so someone who wins would have to let you know that one. ;)
I think you should definitely check out the Bellagio hotel. The whole place is beautiful and the gardens and art are outstanding. The Venetian with the gondolas and Italian streets is a nice sight, and shows would depend on what you individually prefer. As a New Yorker, I have seen Mamma Mia three or four times, lost track. If you like ABBA music, you will have a ball! It is a fun show that leaves you on a high when you leave. I am not a circus-act fan so I am not into any of the Cirque De Solei shows, but others may feel differently. I would see the Masquerade Village Show (free in the Masquerade Village at the Rio) and the statues that come to life at Caesar's. Have a great time.

What we do is visit the various hotel websites for pricing and book on the website. If your stay is Mon.-Thurs. you should have no trouble finding a room for < $100. We like the Treasure Island with a good location and renovated rooms (very nice even for the least expensive ones). There is a pedestrian bridge to the Venetian and it's next door to the Mirage.

Agree that seeing various hotels is a good overview of the "new Vegas," especially the Bellagio, Venetian, and Paris. Beware that walking distances are deceiving on the Strip, your next stop can look nearby, but each property is huge and it takes time to walk.

You probably should book your show in advance, it's sometimes helpful to stay at the hotel where you want to see a show. There are so many choices it's hard to recommend one. If you go over to the Rio to see the Masquerade show, be sure to go up to the Voodoo Lounge. The view is staggering, the ambience is fantastic. Dinner there is very good. For cheaper eats, there is a Mexican cafe on the canal at the Venetian that's fun. Thee are good restaurants in the Forum Shops mall at the Caesars Palace. Hint: try to eat outside of "regular" meal hours to minimize waiting (especially for hotel buffets, don't waste your time in long lines).

To maximize your time, I would have a written plan and you want to set your schedule with no backtracking. Walking is often quicker than taking a cab, but you will need to take a taxi to and from the Rio.

I'm sure you will get lots of good suggestions here. Have fun!

Walking is often quicker than taking a cab, but you will need to take a taxi to and from the Rio.


There is a relatively frequent, complimentary shuttle bus between Harrahs and the Rio Hotel & Casino. If you are pressed for time, I agree with the idea for a taxi.