Nevada: Las Vegas and Beyond

Exploring Valley of Fire State Park

Ever since I was a little girl, we have been making the drive from Southern California to Las Vegas, Nevada. This was never my favorite trip in the world, but we had to do it a few times a year to see family. When my dad's side of the family moved here from Korea, they lived in Las Vegas. My grandma was an employee at the MGM when it burned down (she was not working that day, thankfully), so there is a lot of personal history between the state of Nevada and I. Ever since my grandfather and great aunt have passed away, the annual Vegas trips have stopped, however, if you ever find yourself in the Nevada desert, there are so many options of things to do- Las Vegas and more.

Valley of Fire State Park

If you ever find yourself in the area, be sure to make a trip to Valley of Fire State Park. This is a mesmerizing destination, known for its vibrant red sandstone formations and stunning geological wonders. Get ready for an adventure filled with geological marvels, cultural treasures, and unforgettable views that will leave you in awe of this desert's ancient allure.

Atlatl Rock

(Pictured: At Atlatl Rock.)

Atlatl Rock is a unique and historically significant rock formation, adorned with ancient petroglyphs etched into its surface by the indigenous peoples who once inhabited this land. Petroglyphs are a window into the past, depicting various symbols, human figures, animals, and abstract designs, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the early inhabitants of the region. The site's name, "Atlatl," comes from a spear-throwing tool used by ancient civilizations, and this is an easily accessible spot. You simply park in the lot and climb the stairs up to view the rock.

Rainbow Vista

(Pictured: Exploring Rainbow Vista.)

The Rainbow Vista is a breathtaking viewpoint in the Valley of Fire, offering a mesmerizing display of vibrant colors and unique rock formations. The name "Rainbow Vista" perfectly showcases the array of striking colors featured on these sandstone cliffs, with colors ranging from deep reds and oranges to delicate pinks and yellows. On my first trip here, we even found a sand deposit of red and yellow sand. This remarkable area exemplifies the extraordinary beauty of the Valley of Fire. It is hard not to leave a place like this without a profound appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

White Domes Trail

(Pictured: Hike along White Domes Trail.)

The White Domes Trail is a journey through an otherworldly desert landscape. This moderate hike weaves through towering sandstone formations, revealing a stunning array of colors. As hikers wind their way through the slot canyons and sandy washes, they encounter the eponymous White Domes—striking white sandstone formations that stand in contrast to the surrounding fiery red rocks.

Petroglyph Canyon

(Pictured: Petroglyphs in Petroglyph Canyon.)

Petroglyph Canyon is an intriguing journey through time, where ancient artistry adorns the sandstone walls around you. As you venture through the canyon, you encounter hundreds of petroglyphs—ancient rock carvings left behind by Native American cultures centuries ago. The intricate designs depict hunting scenes, sacred symbols, and daily life. This can be a hot hike if you go during the summer, but if the weather permits this was a really cool stop for us.

The Cabins

(Pictured: Exploring the sandstone cabins.)

These red sandstone cabins were built in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) for travelers to use. Today, it is used as a picnic area, but it is still a great stop to view these structures built from sandstone found in the park.

Petrified Logs

(Pictured: Petrified logs turned to stone.)

Also within the park are petrified logs that were frozen in time amidst the fiery red sandstone landscape. These ancient remnants, transformed into stone over millions of years, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's geological history. This was not the most exciting stop, but still worth the look if you were up for it.

Perfect for Kids

(Pictured: My daughter playing in the Valley of Fire.)

Not only is the Valley of Fire a great place for adults, but it is also an ideal destination for kids, where imagination and exploration can run wild amidst the surreal desert landscapes. My daughter had the time of her life when we first entered the park just climbing around the rock formations. Children of all ages will be in awe of the vibrant red sandstone formations and towering rocks that seem like nature's playground. Many of the sandstone formations offered caves and arches for her to climb through and explore. This give you the opportunity to make it a family excursion and teach the little ones a thing or two about the Valley of Fire.

Hoover Dam

(Pictured: Visiting Hoover Dam.)

Visiting the top of Hoover Dam is another easy stop in Nevada. Hoover Dam is a showcase of human ingenuity and engineering marvels. Standing at this iconic landmark, travelers are treated to views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River below. The impressive architecture and historic significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into America's rich past.

Seven Magic Mountains

Visiting the Seven Magic Mountains.

The Seven Magic Mountains located in Jean, Nevada are a vibrant and whimsical art installation that feel a bit random in the middle of this empty desert landscape. Rising from the dirt are seven towering stacks of colorful boulders create a striking visual spectacle. This playful display invites visitors to marvel at the contrast between the beige desert and these bold art installations. This is also an extremely popular photo destination for Instagrammers who visit the area, so be warned that you will rarely end up at this location with nobody else around.

The Middle-Of-Nowhere

Fireworks purchased in Pahrump, Nevada.

My mother lives in Pahrump, Nevada. That's okay, I had never heard of it either until I had family that moved out there. There is nothing beautiful or exciting about this town, and it is essentially in the middle of nowhere. However, if you find yourself unfortunate enough to end up near Pahrump, Nevada there are a few interesting things to do in the area.

(Pro Tip: If you were looking to stock up on some fireworks, this would be the place to do it!)

Amargosa Opera House

The Amargosa Hotel and Opera House, located in the Death Valley Junction, is a unique historic landmark. We originally stayed here years ago when my mom was hunting ghosts; even if you don't believe in that sort of thing, this place is creepy as hell. Originally built in the 1920s this hotel exudes a (somewhat) vintage charm, however it is looking a bit run down over the years. There used to be a restaurant attached to the hotel that is no longer in business, but the area is not a major tourist destination to begin with, so I can see why it did not stay open.

If you end up staying here, the rooms are small, and most of the decor is simply painted on the walls. However, at the end of a long row of rooms is a back area (that was once also apparently rooms, but is now falling apart and being used for storage) referred to as "Spooky Hollow". It was quite spooky, and it was absolutely filled with furniture and artifacts that must have been original to the hotel. I went and saw this as a teenager and was amazed at how much history was just sitting back here. It is wonder to me why they have not tried to convert more of this place into a museum. Apparently, however, this was the most "active" part of the hotel as far as paranormal activity goes, so to my understanding they no longer let you go back to this area. I have included photos that are not mine, which I usually wouldn't do, but I thought they were worth sharing since there aren't very many images online or this particular part of the hotel:

(Pictured: Photos from Erin Pavlina- https://www.erinpavlina.com/blog/2010/10/paranormal-investigation-of-the-amargosa-hotel-part-4/)

The adjacent opera house is still in pretty good condition, adorned with hand-painted murals and ornate décor, and you can still take a tour of it if you would like. They even have occasional performances here still. I have provided a link to their website if you were interested:

Amargosa Hotel Website

Devil's Hole

(Pictured: The Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and the Devil's Hole.)

The Devils Hole is a fascinating and unique geological feature in the middle of the Nevada desert. It is a deep, water-filled cavern that forms part of the larger Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. This hole is of great ecological importance, since it plays the only role in preserving the critically endangered Devils Hole pupfish. The entrance to Devils Hole is a narrow opening leading to a deep, cavernous pool of water and the pool itself is connected to a complex underground cave system. The water inside is believed to be connected to an underground aquifer. I honestly have always been so intrigued by this specific location and the pupfish themselves.

The Devils Hole and its surrounding area are carefully protected to preserve the delicate ecosystem that supports the pupfish. Due to its fragility and the endangered status of the pupfish, public access to Devils Hole is restricted. However, visitors can view this natural wonder from an observation platform nearby, where they can learn about the unique geological processes that formed this hole, and the importance of preserving this fragile and unique habitat. If you would like to read more about the Devils Hole, here is a link to the National Park Service website:

Devil's Hole Information

The Town of Goldfield

(Pictured: Exploring the town of Goldfield.)

The town of Goldfield, Nevada is a historic place nestled in the heart of the desert. Once a booming gold mining town in the early 20th century, Goldfield still retains the remnants of its rich past. As you stroll through the town's streets, you'll encounter old buildings, rustic storefronts, and fascinating artifacts that tell the story of its mining heritage. This is another spot my mom likes to frequent due to it's supposed paranormal activity. No spooky energy here, but it was an interesting place to walk around.

The International Car Forest

(Pictured: Visiting the International Car Forest.)

The International Car Forest of the Last Church, located in Goldfield, is a one-of-a-kind outdoor art installation. As the name suggests, it is a forest of cars, where vehicles of various shapes and sizes are planted upright in the desert ground. This collection of automobiles, adorned with graffiti, paint, and sculptures, creates a visually striking spectacle, and creates a fun place to wander around and explore.

The Dinky Diner

(Pictured: Enjoying lunch at the Dinky Diner.)

If you are able to stop in Goldfield, go grab something to eat at the Dinky Diner. Not only are there little places to stop and eat in this area, but the food here was actually really good and the service was awesome for such a small town.

The Clown Motel

(Pictured: The Clown Motel, inside the lobby and one of the rooms.)

The Clown Motel, located in Tonopah, Nevada, is a quirky and infamous roadside attraction. I am shocked by how well-known this place is for essentially being in the middle of nowhere. True to its name, this unique motel embraces a clown theme, with clown figurines, paintings, and memorabilia adorning its walls and rooms. Even the outside of the hotel is bold and colorful. When you enter the lobby, you are greeted by rows of grinning clown faces, peering out from shelves and walls, creating an ambiance that is slightly eerie. The motel's dedication to its clown theme is undeniable, attracting curious travelers from far and wide. We did not stay here, but the owner (or whoever was working) happily let us look into one of the available rooms.

The Tonopah Cemetery.

Next to the motel is the Tonopah Cemetery, adding an extra layer spookiness to the overall atmosphere if you were interested in that sort of thing. The grounds next to the hotel also feature a large group of outdoor feral cats, which were a treat for us to see.

The Mizpah Hotel

The Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, Nevada is a historic and surprisingly elegant gem that exudes a timeless charm. Standing as a testament to the town's rich mining heritage, this grand hotel has been welcoming guests since 1907.

(Pictured: Photos from inside and outside the Mizpah Hotel.)

Entering the Mizpah Hotel lobby, you are greeted with intricate woodwork and plush furnishings, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance that seems to transport you back in time. The attention to detail extends to each guest room, where classic decor, antique furnishings, and modern amenities seamlessly blend to provide comfort and sophistication. I found the stay here to be exceptionally comfortable, given how old the hotel and town are.

The hotel also has a restaurant and bar, and hosts ghost tours - taking advantage of its reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in Nevada, adding an extra layer of intrigue and mystery for visitors who believe in the paranormal. Haunted or not, the Mizpah Hotel is a lovely and historical stay in the Nevada desert.

Las Vegas

The new Las Vegas sign.

Last but not least is of course, the famous Las Vegas, Nevada: a thrilling and vibrant destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Also referred to as Sin City, Las Vegas dazzles with its iconic skyline, bright lights, and endless entertainment options. Las Vegas is well-known as a city that never sleeps, where you can immerse yourself in a world of glitz, glamour, and limitless entertainment.

The Las Vegas Strip

(Pictured: Buildings along the Las Vegas Strip.)

The famous Las Vegas Strip is a spectacle all in itself, lined with extravagant hotels, world-class casinos, and renowned shows. Whether you're trying your luck at the gaming tables, catching a performance by a legendary artist, or indulging in exquisite dining experiences, the Las Vegas strip offers non-stop excitement.

Outside the Bellagio Hotel.

Caesar's Palace

Caesars Palace, with its Roman-inspired architecture and lavish decor, transports guests to a world of luxury and indulgence. In my opinion, this resort is a must-visit destination on the vibrant Las Vegas Strip. The shops here are incredible, and include some high end-shops that are worth looking at, even if you don't plan on purchasing anything. Some of the statues within the shopping area also come to life, and there is even a large aquarium to view. I have not stayed here yet, but would imagine that their rooms are fabulous.

The Venetian

The canals at the Venetian.

The Venetian, on the other hand, transports visitors to the heart of Venice, Italy. One main feature of the Venetian would be their intricately designed canals upon which guests can take gondola rides through the resort. This resort also features world-class shopping if that was part of your interests. A stay at the Venetian ensures an unforgettable and indulgent stay on the iconic Las Vegas Strip. They have some of the most beautiful hotel rooms I have ever seen at the Venetian, and the Venezia Pool Gardens (hidden on the 10th floor) were absolutely worth the stay alone.

"LOVE" display at the Venetian.

The Wynn

Floral display in the Wynn Hotel.

Walking through the Wynn Hotel transports you to a world of pure luxury. As you step into the grand lobby, the grand (yet tasteful) decor and dazzling chandeliers capture your attention. Be sure to visit the atrium, adorned with colorful mosaics and an ever-changing carousel display. I have not stayed here yet either, but considering this is a more high-end hotel in Las Vegas, I would think their rooms are quite nice. It is pretty enough to just walk through, in my opinion.

The Bellagio

(Pictured: Famous Bellagio Fountains.)

The Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas are a world-famous spectacle of water, music, and light. I would like to think that most people think of these when they think of visiting Las Vegas. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Bellagio Hotel, the fountains dance and soar to carefully choreographed performances, captivating audiences with their synchronized movements and dazzling displays. It's a must-see attraction that embodies the grandeur and elegance of the Las Vegas Strip.

(Pictured: Photos from inside the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.)

The indoor botanical gardens at the Bellagio are a sensory delight that transports visitors to a floral wonderland. Lush blooms and vibrant colors adorn the grand conservatory, transforming the space into an enchanting garden oasis. With each season, the hotel creates a new design; unless you visit often, you will always be greeted with a new and unique display.

New York New York

Outside of New York New York.

New York New York brings the iconic landmarks and energy of New York City to the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. The exterior architecture of the resort features famous NYC landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge, recreated in impressive detail. Walking through the hotel's streetscape, you'll feel like you're strolling through Manhattan, complete with charming brownstone facades and street-side cafes.

New York New York has various restaurants serving a diverse range of cuisines, from classic New York-style pizza to upscale dining experiences, such as a Gallagher's Steakhouse. If this is your first visit, don't forget to try their Coney Island-inspired roller coaster, "The Big Apple Coaster," which offers an exhilarating ride with twists and turns that brings you out onto the Vegas Strip.

Paris

Inside of the Paris Hotel.

The Paris Hotel brings the romantic charm and iconic landmarks of Paris to the bustling Las Vegas Strip. Outside of the hotel stands a replica of the Eiffel Tower. The inside of the hotel captures the essence of Parisian streets, complete with cobblestone pathways, charming street lamps, and quaint cafes. If you plan on dining at the Paris Hotel, head over to Mon Ami Gabi for some authentic French cuisine to further highlight your experience here.

The Eiffel Tower replica features an observation deck for an added fee, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline. Watching the city lights come alive from this vantage point is an unforgettable experience, especially when the Bellagio fountains are dancing in the distance.

Bally's

Inside our room at Bally's.

Bally's did a renovation a number of years back and it is now my favorite hotel on the strip to stay in for a decent price. The rooms are clean and comfortable and it even connects directly to the Paris Hotel without ever having to step outside. With its prime location on the Strip, you can enjoy easy access to the top attractions.

Mandalay Bay

I really enjoyed the rooms when we stayed here, they were large, clean, and had huge bathtubs featuring TV in the bathroom. The resort's expansive pool area, known as the Mandalay Beach, features a vast wave pool and sandy beaches, making it one of the most impressive and enjoyable pool complexes on the Las Vegas Strip, in my opinion.

Shark Reef

(Pictured: At the Shark Reef Aquarium.)

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas is a large exhibit that offers a unique experience on the Las Vegas Strip. This expansive aquarium showcases a diverse range of marine life, including sharks, exotic fish, and other underwater creatures. Visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel and enjoy the various animal exhibits along the way. This is a great stop if you have kids!

Rio

(Pictured: Photos from our stay at Rio.)

Rio Hotel in Las Vegas was once a vibrant and lively destination where entertainment and excitement thrived. Known for its iconic rooftop VooDoo Zip Line and the famous Carnival in the Sky, the hotel once offered a diverse array of experiences. I have not been here recently however, but have heard it has really gone downhill since I originally stayed there. There is a supposed renovation plan to take place in August 2023, which may explain its deteriorating state, so hopefully they are able to make some improvements and make it a destination once again. There was nothing super memorable about a stay here, but nothing memorably bad either.

Circus Circus

(Pictured: Inside the Adventure Dome.)

The Midway and Adventure Dome at Circus Circus Las Vegas offer a world of entertainment and thrills under one roof, and are an absolute must-do if you have kids. The Midway is a carnival-style area filled with a variety of games, prizes, and circus-themed attractions, where visitors of all ages can test their skills and win exciting rewards. Consider this area the casino, but for children, since we are in Las Vegas.

The Adventure Dome, located inside a massive pink dome structure, is an indoor amusement park featuring thrilling rides, roller coasters, and exciting attractions for all ages. Whether you're looking to challenge your friends at a game booth or experience heart-pumping rides, the Midway and Adventure Dome provide endless fun and excitement for everyone.

This was the number one place I would come to as a kid with my grandparents, so I may have a little bit of a nostalgic bias in my recommendation. The hotel itself is not in the best part of Las Vegas, and I would not recommend staying here either, if you can avoid it.

Other Hotels I've Stayed at Worth Mentioning (Without Photos):

• Luxor: The Luxor is cool, and I have always loved walking through here and admiring the unique Egyptian theme, but this was the only hotel experience I have ever had where we had bugs in our room. If you must stay here, try the tower rooms versus the ones in the pyramid. I hope they have cleaned up their act since my last stay.

• Excalibur: This is a good place if you're on a budget but want to be on the strip. They also have an arcade downstairs, so this was a popular stay when we were kids. Nothing to rave about, but the rooms were fine here.

• Four Seasons: The rooms here were incredibly comfortable, like the best blankets you have ever felt. I stayed here with a family friend once and they chose it specifically because it was dog friendly. It connects to the Mandalay Bay as well, so you have access to their pools along with the private pool areas at the Four Seasons.

• MGM Grand: I stayed here a lot as a kid, so we go way back. I remember when they whole lobby used to be Wizard of Oz themed, a kids club for babysitting, and when they had lions you could go view. To my understanding, they still have a Rainforest Cafe and a lazy river. I am not sure how it is today, but it was the cat's pajamas when I was a child.

• Stratosphere: I cannot speak for the rooms on this one, but I rode the rides at the very top with my friend as a child and it was the time of my life. I would highly recommend this if you were looking for an extra thrill.

Gambling

After winning some money in Las Vegas.

Gambling in Las Vegas is an experience that draws millions of visitors each year to Sin City. The city's world-famous casinos offer an array of gaming options, from slot machines and poker tables to blackjack and roulette. With an electric atmosphere and the chance to win big, Las Vegas is like a playground for adults. Be sure to at least play a game or two while you are in Las Vegas.

Fremont Street

(Pictured: Walking down Fremont Street.)

Fremont Street in Las Vegas is a vibrant and iconic Vegas destination off of the Las Vegas Strip. Lined with dazzling neon lights, bustling casinos, and a lively atmosphere, it offers a sensory overload of entertainment and excitement. Visitors can explore the various attractions and street performers while enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Fremont Street is covered by screens that display a series of images and videos, and there is a zipline that you can take across it as well if you were looking for an extra activity to do while exploring this area.

Restaurants/ Drinks

The Peppermill

(Pictured: Having dinner at the Peppermill.)

The Peppermill Restaurant in Las Vegas is a classic and iconic dining establishment that has been captivating visitors since 1972. Stepping inside, you are greeted by an atmosphere that evokes a sense of old-school glamour, and it's looked the same for as long as I can remember. The restaurant's unique décor features vibrant neon lights, plush booths, and a central fire pit, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Beyond the main dining area, the Peppermill also boasts a cozy lounge where you can relax and enjoy a cocktail. All of the employees are wearing matching uniforms, these have never changed either. My parents met while working here, so I have been eating at this place for as long as I can recall.

The Peppermill offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and cravings. From hearty breakfast options to delectable sandwiches, salads, and steaks, there is something to please every palate. They are also well-known for their portion sizes. Their signature "Scorpion" cocktail, has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. I would also recommend the Conquest sandwich- one of my dad's favorites.

Makino Buffet

(Pictured: Eating at Makino Buffet.)

Makino Buffet in Las Vegas is a haven for Asian food lovers looking for a quality all-you-can-eat experience. This is a quality buffet offering a wide variety of dishes including fresh sushi, sashimi and other seafood. They even offer a chocolate fountain and hand-scooped ice cream for dessert. It is not on the strip, but if you were looking for a quality Asian buffet, this is the place!

(Pictured: Drinks at Mon Ami Gabi and the Chocolate Bar.)

As far as cocktails go, Las Vegas has a lot to offer, but can get pricey. We always go out for one drink, and then stop somewhere like CVS to get a beer or a seltzer. I personally liked the cotton candy martini I tried at I Love Sugar, but maybe I just like candy...

(Pictured: Cotton candy martini at I Love Sugar.)

The Barbershop

If you have the time, step into the Barbershop Speakeasy Bar in Las Vegas and be transported back to the Prohibition era. Disguised as a vintage barbershop, the hidden entrance leads you to a secret world. Enjoy a cocktail as live music fills the air, creating an intimate and immersive experience. The décor perfectly complemented the speakeasy theme and hush-hush ambiance make this speakeasy an excellent choice for a unique and unforgettable night out in Sin City.