Vegas, baby! For those of you who have not gone on a vegas getaway, it really is as fabulous as everyone says it is. And Vegas goes way beyond just all-night club-hopping. The city if overflowing with food, drinks, games, shows, and much more. I went to UCLA for undergrad so my college friends and I made frequent trips to Vegas, and it’s a place where we often meet up for reunions. A few weeks ago we met up again and had as epic of a time as we always do. Read on for food, drink, and fun recommendations.
Vegas Getaway: Where to Stay & What to do
Where to Stay: The Cosmopolitan! This chic venue has a bevy of restaurants, bars and shops, two pools, a nightclub, and loads of game tables. The rooms are spacious, with balconies and gorgeous bathrooms complete with a tub you can soak in after you stayed up all night or before you hit the sack. The concierge is incredibly helpful, and the staff is there to cater to your every whim (i.e. 4am room service!)
What to Do:
- A must do during a Vegas getaway is to see a show! Vegas has everything from magic shows to cirque du soleil to concerts. My favorite cirque du soleil show is The Beatles Love Show at The Mirage but that is because I am a major Beatles fan! Even if you are not, the acrobats, aerialists, and dancers are so impressive the show is worth seeing. This time around I planned my trip around Britney’s show at Planet Hollywood. The show is called Piece of Me, it was as awesome as I thought it would be! The music, the dancing, and of course: BRITNEY!
- Drink! Vegas is known for having some of the coolest bars in the country, and one of them happens to be at the Cosmopolitan. The Clique Bar has a “Tableside Mixology” option where one of the mixologists will come and whip up a super boozy, super fabulous beverage at your table while you watch. Other great bar options at the Cosmo include a James Bond themed bar called The Vesper Bar and The Chandelier, where you can enjoy a pre or post dinner beverage in a luxurious and upscale venue. Every hour is happy hour in Vegas, so hit up these bars any time of day.
- Hit the Pool! The Cosmopolitan has two awesome pools, one is the Marquee which features a daytime pool party with loud music, dancing and drinks, and the other is the Bamboo, which is more low-key. Both have cabanas you can rent so you can relax and lounge around with your friends.
- Go Dancing! In the evening the Marquee turns into a nightclub, with an outdoor hip-hop dance floor and an indoor EDM room. Tables are available for bottle service, which is great if you want a private area to hang out with your friends.
Where to Eat:
- China Poblano: Jose Andres has no limits. Even in Vegas, his food is dynamic and delicious. China Poblano features an unusual combination of chinese and mexican fusion fare, which turned out to be delectable. Sample a cool hearts of palm salad with a sour tamarind dressing, unbelievably savory twenty vegetable fried rice, mushroom tacos, guacamole, fried potatoes, and much, much more. The chef’s tasting menu is only $55 and you will end up stuffed! Wash everything down with cava or one of Jose’s famous salt-air margaritas.
- Rose.Rabbit.Lie: This sexy restaurant is perfect for enjoying before a night out during a Vegas getaway. Vegetarian diners will love the separate menu which features dishes like asparagus with an elegant parmesan tuile, cavatelli, herb brioche rolls, and corn with cotija cheese and huitlacoche. Enjoy live music while you dine, and be sure to take advantage of the extensive cocktail and wine menu.
The Verdict: If you are looking for total decadence, a Vegas getaway is the perfect trip. Entertainment, food, drinks and fun are limitless in America’s biggest playground. Experience the luxury The Cosmo has to offer the next time you go!
