There is a half-price ticket booth run by Tix4Tonight (www.tix4tonight.com) right next to the Harley Davidson (just moved there under new ownership). The rumor is it will have a better selection than its predecessor in the Showcase Mall. The fact you're going in July (when business is slower than usual) may work in your favor.

For a real bargain, go see the Mac King show at Harrah's in the afternoon. If you sign up for the slot club, you get two free tickets (with a one-drink minimum) and a really enjoyable time. Even without the freebies, the show is cheap by Vegas standards. I've seen it twice and would go back a 3rd time.

Another free don't-miss experience is the dancing fountain show at the Bellagio.

If you do want to splurge on Cirque du Soleil, don't bother paying extra to see O . Most people I know think Mystere is both a better show and a better buy (I certainly do).

As for websites: The official website is at www.lasvegasfreedom.com. Definitely check out www.lasvegasadvisor.com, which always runs the month's best values and specials in Vegas.

Red Rock, the Valley of Fire or Hoover Dam are all good choices for photo ops, but you're going to fry out there in July. The Strip at night always makes a good backdrop--and it's a lot cooler on a hot July night. The Cactus gardens outside the Ethel M factory make for some good photos, too. (And you can always pop in and a get a free sample of chocolate after you take your pictures.)

As for buffets, I like the Luxor in the middle range: the atmosphere is great and everything was fresh and tasty when I was there. I know a food writer who likes the Paris buffet. And though I've never been there, I've heard nothing but good things about the Main Street Station downtown.