In the early planning stages of our trip, my sister made it clear that she really wanted to see the Las Vegas Strip. We had both been there as little kids, but we don’t really remember it, and we both wanted a fresh experience.
First Stop: Pawn Stars
Our first stop in Las Vegas was the famous pawnshop called Pawn Stars where my sister found something she liked and bought it! With that out of the way, we were told that Fremont Street was not to be missed! Since we didn’t know what to expect, we proceeded with an open mind.
Booking.comFremont Street
The first thing that caught my eye, is that the domed ceiling is used as a backdrop for neon lights and eye candy! There are speakers everywhere, so it’s the ultimate in surround sound. With a zip line running right down the middle, and the scent of cannabis in the air, what’s not to love?
Street Performers
Notice how there are staging circles on the floor: A place for performers to solicit money from strangers. It took me a while to figure this out and I had been taking pictures freely as I walked along the mall. But apparently, it’s not all free.
Free Pix Ain’t Cool
Apparently, it’s not cool to just walk up and down the mall taking free pictures. And this one performer let me know! Can you see what he did? First, he waved at me (Notice the money in his hand?)
Then he looked at all of the other people, to be sure he wasn’t missing a donation before he looked dead at me and covered his eyes! At first, I thought, “What a jerk!” but after some time, I was able to put all of this together.
What He Don’t Know
I saw him LONG before he saw me! Anyway, here’s the tip: Bring Cash so you can tip!
The Las Vegas Strip
The Vegas Strip at night is NUTS! People everywhere! We had the kids strapped into a stroller, and we were hyper-vigilant about safe-guarding ourselves and our belongings as we explored the one-block area around our hotel.
We saw the Bellagio Hotel with its famous water fountain show. And we saw the Eiffel Tower, both during the day and at night.
Worst Hotel Experience of our Entire Trip
At the risk of sounding like I’m complaining, our stay at Bally’s will go down as the worst hotel experience on our entire trip, for these reasons:
- The hike from the parking garage to the hotel room was a full-day outing! It’s easy to get lost.
- Once at the room, the bellhop drops our luggage, and politely tells us where we can find the pool, but fails to mention that it’s closed.
- There was a great little tram that ran all around the hotel, but I could NOT find out any information about its route, its schedule, or its fees.
- If you want to speak with an agent, the line is about 30 people long. Good luck.
- They strongly encouraged us to “Download the APP” which I resisted, for a one-night stay, but I’m sure a number of questions would most certainly be answered.
One night on The Las Vegas Strip was all we could take! Let’s blow!