Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night – 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - The Glitz and Glam of the Strip
The neon lights are calling your name. The Las Vegas Strip dazzles with its sleek hotels, pulsating nightclubs, and endless entertainment options. From dancing fountains to pirate battles, a walk down this iconic boulevard promises sensory overload. Leaning into the glitz and glam is a must for first-timers.
Making your grand entrance at one of the lavish casino hotels is an experience in itself. Properties like Caesars Palace, The Venetian, and the Bellagio aim to impress. Roman columns, canals with gondolas, and majestic dancing fountains greet visitors. Don't forget to gaze up at the ornate ceiling frescoes. The world-class restaurants also shine, whether you're craving Nobu's trendy sushi or Gordon Ramsay's sophisticated British fare.
After dinner, it's showtime on the Strip. Cirque du Soleil's magical productions are a longtime favorite. More recent additions include residencies by megastars like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Adele at intimate venues. Absinthe's naughty burlesque show at Caesars Palace amps up the sex appeal. Or laugh the night away with hilarious comics like Carrot Top and Jeff Dunham.
When you're ready to hit the dance floor, XS Nightclub and Omnia at Caesars bring the LED lights, confetti blasts, and bottle service. At Jewel Nightclub in Aria, eight giant LED ribbons stream hypnotic visuals above the crowds. Drai's mega-club atop The Cromwell keeps the after-hours party pumping until dawn. Celeb spotting is par for the course.
For a change of pace, check out the retro vibes at Frank Sinatra's go-to haunt, the Golden Nugget downtown. Sit at the blackjack tables where Ol' Blue Eyes once gambled the night away. Or sip a martini at the glitzy Peppermill Lounge, a throwback to the Strip's vintage days.
What else is in this post?
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - The Glitz and Glam of the Strip
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Dance till Dawn at these Clubs
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Put Lady Luck to the Test in the Casino Bars
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Sip in Style at Las Vegas Lounges
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Laugh until it Hurts at Comedy Clubs
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Take in a Show then Take to the Town
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Dive Bars and Local Haunts Off The Strip
- Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Recovery Starts Here - Brunch Spots for the Morning After
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Dance till Dawn at these Clubs
Vegas is world-famous for its nightlife scene, where the parties rage until sunrise. If you want to dance the night away, these are the hottest clubs along the Strip and downtown. At Omnia in Caesars Palace, channel your inner celebrity as you mix and mingle with the glitterati. The architecture is stunning with two-story floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing dizzying views of the Strip. Look up and see the futuristic chandelier hanging from the soaring ceiling. The state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems make you feel like you're at a concert, not a club. See DJ stars like Calvin Harris and The Chainsmokers spin their infectious beats as confetti cannons shoot over the dance floor. VIP table service comes with its own waitstaff, so the Cristal champagne is always flowing.
For a throwback vibe, Drai's Nightclub atop The Cromwell takes guests back to the vintage days of Vegas with its lush red velvet booths and retro décor accents. But the music and crowds are still thumping, with acts like Tyga and Gucci Mane. Dance on the illuminated disco floor or head to the rooftop pool deck to see the fountains of Bellagio. No matter where you roam, you’ll find celeb sightings aplenty, from pro athletes to social media influencers. Stick around past last call for Drai’s wild After Hours party from 1am-6am.
At Marquee Nightclub in The Cosmopolitan, eight themed rooms spread over 60,000 square feet keep the party going into the wee hours. One standout is the hip-hop Haven room with its all-white decor. Treatment at the Backstage Bar feels like an exclusive house party. The huge 40-foot LED screens immerse you in the lights and sounds of resident and guest DJs. If you get the late-night munchies, dine on gourmet sliders and sushi from the kitchen. Then hit the outdoor pool deck at dawn to see the sunrise over the Nevada desert as you come down from your night out.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Put Lady Luck to the Test in the Casino Bars
The casino bars on the Las Vegas Strip are more than just places to grab a cocktail before hitting the tables. They allow you to soak in the buzzing energy of Sin City and enjoy top-notch drinks – sometimes for free.
Putting a little money down at the video poker machines is a time-honored tactic for scoring gratis booze. Excellent spots to try your luck include the Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan and Petrossian at Bellagio. Slip into a curved banquette or grab a seat at the art deco-style bar. Sip creative martinis and cocktails while you watch the poker screen for the chance to win back the cost of your drinks. An attendant is happy to explain the rules if it’s your first time playing.
Other casino bars like Double Barrel Roadhouse at Monte Carlo skip the machines and comp your drinks based on how much you’re gambling. Belly up to the rustic wooden bar under the tutelage of expert mixologists. With over 150 whiskeys, you can expand your horizons beyond basic Jack and Cokes. Or head to the Center Bar at The Mirage to witness flair bartending at its finest. The talented staff juggle bottles behind their backs while concocting your order.
Interact with dealers and fellow revelers as you enjoy your libations. At Casino Royale’s bar, you may witness high-fives after a winning hand of blackjack or a raucous bachelor party shouting drinks for everyone. Soak up the buzzing energy and vicariously enjoy others’ winning streaks.
In most casino bars, be sure to tip the bartender and cocktail waitresses bringing your drinks. Even $1 per drink goes a long way toward securing great service all night long. With the right grin and charm, some bartenders may even slip you additional comped drinks “on the house.” You can also try your luck asking the pit boss for drink vouchers to cover your bill.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Sip in Style at Las Vegas Lounges
After a long night of partying, sometimes you're just not ready to call it quits. For a more relaxed scene, head to one of the chic hotel lounges along the Strip and downtown to keep the night going in style. These hideaways beckon with craft cocktails, shareable bites, and comfy couches where you can unwind and recap your wild adventures.
The Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan immediately wows with its namesake centerpiece: a stunning chandelier draped with strands of crystals that changes colors as you sip. Claim a spot within one of the bar’s three stories and marvel at the whimsical decor, with glass-beaded curtains and plush furniture. Go for a nightcap off their inventive cocktail menu or order bar bites like Wagyu sliders and stone-fired pizzas. With live music most nights, the atmosphere feels intimate yet energetic. It's the ultimate place to extend your night without the nightclub crowds.
For retro flair, make your way to the Peppermill Fireside Lounge on the Strip. You can’t miss the neon blue and pink hues of this kitschy, tropical-themed bar. Sink back into the red vinyl booths and choose from their famous “64 Ounces to Freedom” cocktail served in a huge Mason jar with multiple straws. Or imbibe their coffee-infused Peppermill Specialty Drink as you take in the ‘70s vibes. The dance floor sees regulars showcasing their smooth moves late into the night.
Downtown at the Golden Nugget, rush over to the Chart House lounge after hitting the casino floor. Its stunning floor-to-ceiling aquarium immerses you underwater while you sip. Cozy up on plush leather sofas near the fireplace or post up at the glowing blue bar. With live piano music setting the mood, bring someone special here for an intimate date nightcap. End your night gazing into each other’s eyes instead of your phones to create memories that will last long after you leave Vegas behind.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Laugh until it Hurts at Comedy Clubs
Amidst the glitz, gambling, and nightlife, comedy clubs provide a welcome change of pace in Vegas. Head to an intimate venue like the Comedy Cellar at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino or Brad Garrett's Comedy Club at MGM Grand for guaranteed laughs from seasoned pros.
The comedy scene on the Strip has exploded in recent years, with big-name residencies that rival the major musical acts. Fan favorites like Carrot Top and Jeff Dunham perform their headlining shows at Luxor multiple times per week. Carrot Top's prop comedy pokes fun at everything from selfie sticks to Uber. Meanwhile, ventriloquist Jeff Dunham banters with his puppet sidekicks like grumpy Walter and peanut gallery member Achmed the Dead Terrorist.
For those seeking edgier, uncensored humor, check out Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club at The LINQ Promenade. Comics get real about relationships, pop culture, and politics, dishing out plenty of R-rated jokes. The intimate, 200-seat venue makes you feel like part of the act as comedians chat with the crowd.
Absinthe at Caesars Palace melds risqué circus acts with raunchy stand-up for a highly entertaining 18-and-over show. You may find yourself gasping and laughing at the same time as The Gazillionaire emcee tosses zingers at audience members while acrobats and stunt performers amaze.
No matter where you end up, heckling is strictly forbidden, so sit back and let the pros work their magic. Going with a group? Arrive early to nab seats at the front near the stage. This puts you directly in the line of fire for quips and improv based on whatever you're wearing or doing. For the best experience, indulge in a cocktail or two to loosen up. Then get ready to ache from cackling at expertly delivered punchlines all night long.
Beyond the Strip, Jimmy Kimmel's protege Don Barnhart entertains downtown crowds with his quick wit and physical humor at Delirious Comedy Club. Or check the calendar at the intimate Laugh Factory inside the Tropicana for rising talent.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Take in a Show then Take to the Town
After being dazzled by one of the Strip's spectacular production shows, keep the party going by heading out on the town. Las Vegas offers endless options for post-show adventures. Combining a show with a night out allows you to make the most of your precious Sin City hours.
A popular tactic is to take in an early evening show, then head straight to dinner or a swanky lounge for cocktails. Cirque du Soleil's mesmerizing "O" at Bellagio is a great bet, with 7pm and 9:30pm performances. Watch in awe as acrobats plunge into the on-stage pool, then dry off and make your way to Bellagio’s Prime Steakhouse. Indulge in Wagyu beef and truffle creamed spinach before joining the crowds at the casino's Hyde Lounge. Sip top-shelf spirits and dance to the DJ while coming down from the natural high of Cirque’s breathtaking show.
For laughs, catch 8pm comedian Carrot Top at Luxor, then walk over to nearby Tacos & Tequila for Mexican munchies and margaritas before clubbing at Marquee. Or check out the hilarious X Burlesque at 10pm at Flamingo. After the cheeky adult revue, head to High Roller observation wheel to take in the 360-degree Strip views before last call. If you’re seeing a late show, fuel up beforehand so you have energy to rally after.
Another smart tactic is purchasing a ticket package that includes admission to a premier club afterward. For the ultimate girls' night out, opt for the “Le Reve VIP Dinner & Lounge” package. It starts with a 9:30pm performance of Cirque’s “Le Reve” at Wynn, then moves the party to adjacent club Encore Beach Club. Skip long lines and get a prime table with bottle service included. The package lets you make a seamless transition to the dance floor after being dazzled by the show.
Comedy show tickets can also include entry to top nightspots like Omnia or Tao at The Venetian. Check for these convenience combo deals when booking your show, then let the good times roll. Shuttle services between hotels make bar hopping and clubbing a breeze.
Meeting new people is easy when you take in shows then head out on the town. Chat up your seat neighbors about their plans for the rest of the night and suggest linking up later. Strike up conversations at bars, lounges, and clubs to swap stories about your show experiences. VIPs may invite you to their tables after bonding over your shared love of Cirque or Vegas cocktails. Just stay savvy if invited to after-parties to avoid finding yourself in shady situations.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Dive Bars and Local Haunts Off The Strip
Venture off the Strip to where the locals play for a more authentic Vegas vibe. Scattered around town are legendary dive and neighborhood bars that offer change-of-pace fun. Patrons rave that these haunts serve strong, cheap drinks without the challenges of huge crowds or long lines. The jukeboxes play old favorites, and the bartenders chat you up like a regular. It’s a window into how Las Vegans unwind after their work shifts end.
An enduring favorite is Atomic Liquors in downtown’s Fremont East district. Since 1952, its communal patio has welcomed everyone from barflies to A-listers. Order an Atomic Cannon made with five kinds of rum and set it ablaze. Munch on free popcorn and admire the vintage neon signage glowing above the bar top. The laidback ambiance encourages mingling with fellow imbibers as you take in downtown’s pulsing energy just steps away.
For serious dive credentials, head a few blocks west to Huntridge Tavern. Under the same ownership since the 1970s, its dark walls are packed with knickknacks and memorabilia. Challenge new friends to shuffleboard tournaments fueled by their extensive whiskey collection. Or try your luck on the lone video poker machine—if you hit a royal flush, drinks are on the house all night. Regulars rave about the jukebox packed with eclectic hits like David Bowie and New Order.
Ellis Island is a beloved 24-hour haunt just east of the Strip where the beers are ridiculously cheap, like two-for-one drafts. The kitchen serves family-style Italian comfort food perfect for late-night noshing. Try their famous $7.99 steak special billed as “the best deal in town.” Challenge your crew to karaoke sessions in the laidback bar and dance floor area. There’s always lively action thanks to its never-ending happy hour specials.
Dino’s Lounge on Dean Martin Drive embraces the Rat Pack era with its velvet paintings and low-frills vibe. Kitschy flamingo decor reminds you that you’re still in Vegas. Play pool, poker, and pinball machines while sipping wallet-friendly well drinks. Late nights get rowdy when patrons break out their best Frank Sinatra impressions. For a surefire laugh, check out the bathrooms’ cheeky graffiti.
Roll the Dice on a Wild Vegas Night - 19 Hot Spots to Live Your Best Life - Recovery Starts Here - Brunch Spots for the Morning After
After a wild Vegas night, recovery starts with a hearty brunch. Las Vegas boasts myriad spots to replenish and recap your adventures while easing into the new day. From lavish buffets to hip hangouts, Sin City offers hangover helpers across the spectrum.
The Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan tantalizes with its extensive buffet showcasing flavors from around the globe. Mountains of shrimp, sashimi, and snow crab legs give you protein to power through. Meanwhile, made-to-order omelets and DIY waffle stations allow customization. The variety ensures even picky eaters leave satisfied. Pace yourself through multiple trips - those beignets and eclairs call for eventual surrender. An artisan bloody mary or mimosa eases the headache. Many fans dub Wicked Spoon the best Vegas buffet for quality and selection.
For unlimited brunch decadence, Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace dazzles as the largest and priciest buffet on the Strip. With nine open kitchens and over 500 items, its endless offerings range from wood-fire grilled steak to Chinese dim sum. Pacing is key to experience global flavors from Mexico, Italy, Japan and beyond without waste. Devotees rave about the made-to-order crepes and the chance to indulge their sweet tooth with the gelato cart and chocolate fountain. Sit on the patio when weather permits for stellar people watching.
If buffets feel daunting, fashionable brunch spots like Esther’s Kitchen in the downtown Arts District hit the spot with Italian-inspired plates. Their Bloody Maria featuring house-made tomato vodka cures what ails you. Friendly waitstaff and sunshine pouring through large windows lift the mood. Grazing on bruschetta, pancetta eggs benedict and lemon ricotta pancakes peps you up to explore more of downtown's street murals or funky shops.
For a quirky-chic vibe, Jammyland in the Arts District delights with Caribbean flavors and vibrant jungle murals. Wash down jerk chicken waffles and citrus-coconut French toast with tropical cocktails like the Strawberry Letter 23 with rum, hibiscus and strawberry. Reggae tunes and smiling staffers spread laidback vibes that guarantee you’ll soon forget last night’s follies.
Locals recommend Sarah’s Kitchen for an unfussy, cozy brunch in a strip mall east of the Strip. Their fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes topped with fresh blueberries taste like homemade. You can't go wrong with classics like omelets, corned beef hash and biscuits with sausage gravy. Free bottomless coffee ensures you can caffeinate back to life. The unpretentious setting and friendly regulars sipping their mimosas make it the perfect low-key recovery choice.