Each of the themed hotels in Las Vegas has its own take on the visual marvels that have transformed the city into a remarkable family destinaton. At the MGM Grand (877/880-0880), for example, there is a fascinating live lion environment.
A huge Statue of Liberty and a re-created skyline, as well as replicas of NYC streets and ‘real’ New York restaurants, make the New York – New York Hotel (866/815-4365) a sight to be seen, eaten, and shopped! On the second floor of the NY-NY is a huge video arcade with tons of prizes to win, bumper cars, and a lazer tag arena.
The Paris Las Vegas (877/603-4386) has a scaled down but perfect replica of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe and the façade of the Louvre museum. Inside, there are cobblestone streets and an amazingly authentic French bakery, bistro, candy shop, and wine and cheese shops. There is a scrumptious buffet and various outdoor cafes that are indoors.
The Bellagio (888/987-3456), which is the most luxurious, most expensive, least child- welcoming hotel in the city, has an opulent fountain out front which has a synchronized music and water display. Inside, behind reception is a glass-ceilinged conservatory that enclosed a classic formal garden that is incredibly beautiful. The shops that grace the promenade include Armani, Prada, and other high fashion brands.
Many of the hotels are owned by the same company. Thus, a free monorail will shuttle you from one to the other; it’s a fun ride on a state-of-the-art transportation system.
Should you take children to Las Vegas?
Yes, if you are willing to explain to them that compulsive gambling is a disease; that if the gamblers had an even-handed chance to win, Las Vegas would be out of business in a week, which would be a pity.
What a miracle that such a city was built up out of the desert in half a century. You have to see it to believe it!
How many days should you budget? I think that three days should be enough. Never mind what the hotel 800 numbers quote you; prices change daily, and there are AAA discounts, AARP discounts for grandparents, etc. Have fun!
| FTF FINDS MORE AT LAS VEGAS HOTELS:
Speed – The Ride Ride at over 70 mph on this coaster that dives under the legs of the Sahara Hotel marquee (be ready for the 222-ft. backward vertical drop). At the Sahara Hotel (866/382-8884) Star Trek – The Experience Battle the Klingons at warp speed in this $70 million attraction that features realistic sound and motion. Located at the Hilton (888/732-7117) The Volcano Erupting nightly, every 15 minutes in fact, waterfalls rumble, and the spectacular Volcano comes to life in an explosive techno-display. At the Mirage (800/344-9000) The Circus Nonstop free fun under the giant big top: trapeze and high-wire acts, clowns and face painting, and an authentic midway full of games and prizes, all high above the casino floor. At Circus Circus (800/634-3450) – S.G.
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