Sammy’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill
“Food is like fashion. You shouldn’t sit still or you might find yourself out of style.” This is the philosophy of Sami Ladeki, the founder of the original Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza and now his newest venture, Sammy’s Restaurant, Bar & Grill located at 1501 N. Green Valley Parkway. It’s an interesting analogy because food trends, like clothing, certainly come and go. Keeping up with the Joneses requires not only a well-managed business, but the creativity and vision to consistently determine just what it is that keeps customers coming back for more. Judging by the crowds that Sammy’s is experiencing pretty much every day of the week, I’d say Ladeki’s got the right stuff on the runway.
Personally, I enjoyed the “old” Sammy’s that once resided near the now buzzing Galaxy Theatre. The pizza and salads were always delicious and the interior, while starting to age a bit, a reliable choice for outings with fam and friends. Still, this new concept incorporates all that was good about the former, with changes that equate to a leap from off the rack to casual couture. Esthetically, the décor is still relaxed, yet sleek and modern in a very good way. Thoughtful touches of organic materials and room dividers keep the look clean, and airy, while serving to avoid the sterility you sometimes experience in a very large restaurant. Oversized, leather couches cleverly purposed as booth seating provide an intimate, loungy feel, and although the place is somewhat noisy, the overall vibe is comfortable and inviting. The hub of the restaurant is an open bar that resides in the center of the space, a great area to hang out if the wait’s too long or you just want to eat and drink while watching the game.
From a menu standpoint, Sammy’s has added some global spice to more typical Italian and American inspired cuisine. A product of Ladeki’s expansion of the brand to Tokyo in the mid 90’s accounts for predominantly Asian flavors in many of the menu items, with other additions including Mexican Fusion, Middle Eastern and even Indian Papadam wafers garnering relevance via – what I suspect – is what’s fashionable for the times. This is all a great thing as it culminates in a menu that pretty much has something for everyone. We (of course) had a pizza, and it was (of course) still delicious, but although they serve a vast selection of salads, entrees, burgers and pasta, we chose to imbibe in their extensive Tapas menu that, while not authentic from a Spanish standpoint, dished out some pretty good eats. Mini Duck Tacos topped my list of favs, the miniature corn shells perfectly light and crispy, stuffed with rich duck, feta cheese and a superb cilantro crema that pulled it all together. Kung Pao Calamari, prepared with the heartier steak of the squid as opposed to rings and tentacles, could have been spicier in my opinion, but the creative additions of hazelnuts and a caramelized rice vinegar glaze gave this dish promise. Other Pacific Rim winners on the menu included the Hot Rock, an interactive dish that requires you to cook thinly sliced, ponzu marinated beef on a 600 degree rock delivered to the table; Vietnamese Crab Stack, a refreshing salad designed to be eaten on a garlic crostini which, for our table, were unfortunately cold and soggy yet still had good flavor; and Miso Glazed Japanese Eggplant, a delightfully creamy dish whose sweet and earthly flavors paired nicely with the slightly acidic cucumber salad that accompanied it. Lebni Mediterranean Soft Cheese, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Wok’d Sesame Shishito Peppers…I could go on, yet it would be irresponsible to not mention the Yummy Honey pizza as a must try dessert. Savory, sweet, crunchy, creamy…seriously perfect!
Judging by the crowds, the new Sammy’s menu and decor fits the bill for the masses. Whether donning Escada or Levi’s no matter, Sami Ladeki has discovered and executed an idea that’s sure to stay in style for seasons to come. For happy hour times or info on their Bottomless Mimosa Sunday’s, call 567-4000.
Carol Marker
It is the season of giving and that suits Carol Marker just fine. Although currently retired as manager of the family business, Marker Boat & Mini Storage, not a day goes by that Carol doesn’t keep busy or take on a challenge to make the community a better place. In fact, her definition of “retirement” would not be complete without tackling a problem or finding a solution to help others.
As a wife, mother and grandmother of four, she has been particularly interested in finding ways to help young children. She has been involved in a variety of charitable organizations including March of Dimes. She’s also assisted at a home for unwed mothers, and has been an Association President and Troop Leader for Girl Scouts as well as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts. Out of all the organizations to which she’s lent assistance, however, it is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Henderson (now Southern Nevada) that is closest to her heart. Carol is a past President and Board Member and has made an indelible influence on its success through leadership. During her tenure she introduced new programs, many of which are still in practice today, and pushed forward even when things got tough for the group.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada provides a positive place for kids to go before and after school and during summer break. The group offers affordable and fun activities for youth age 5-18. The organization’s caring and dedicated staff provides weekly programs including activities such as sports, table games, board games, arts and crafts, technology, educational activities, field trips and more to help nurture productive, responsible young citizens. Carol Marker talks about the Boys & Girls Club, and why giving up…on anything… is just not in her nature.
What or whom do you think inspires you to want to help others?
“My life inspiration was my mother. She was a great lady and demanded the best from me. She believed that the more you gave to aid the community or family, the more that would come back to you. The last few years of her life were difficult for her, but she handled them without complaint and with dignity. It is my hope that I reflect some of those traits as I go through life.”
You must have also inherited your mother’s will to keep pushing forward?
“I have been known to tackle any problem and work alone or with others to find and implement a solution. I do not know how to give up on a task.”
That includes the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada? It went through a rough period at the beginning.
“I have seen the Clubs from a time of almost financial ruin to a successful, healthy organization. At the time I was President, the Henderson organization was in jeopardy of having to put locks on the doors because of financial problems. With the help of new Board Members and Mike Meyers we were able to put the Clubs on secure financial footing. I was the originator of our current annual auction and have participated in the ongoing merger discussions with the Las Vegas organization.”
What are you most proud to have achieved with the Clubs?
“I am most proud of the Marker Unit of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada, which is still one of the year-round clubs that provides programs for young children.”
So tell us about retirement life. How is it different on a day-to-day basis?
“I can’t think of a better job than the job of retirement. It is hard to go from the work-a-day world to days of seeming unending free time but I hope to do it well enough that I will have done and seen everything I can.”
Jami Artiga
The magic of dance has been felt around the globe for centuries. Think back to when you were a child or when you took your own children to see their first Nutcracker performance. The wonder and excitement is relived as the young girl, Clara, experiences the enchanting dance of the Sugarplum Fairy after her beloved Nutcracker toy comes to life. Jami Artiga of 89123 has dedicated her life to recreating the magic of dance by using her own gifts as a dancer, and teaching children about self-expression through the art. Through The Dance Zone, a local school that she founded with fellow dance enthusiast and partner Kaydee Francis, Artiga harnesses her passion to help others in the community with the power of dance.
The lifelong resident has helped to ensure that The Dance Zone and its students have been associated with several charitable outreach organizations such as Dancer’s Responding to Aids, Golden Rainbow, Josh Steven’s Foundation, Ragtag Entertainment, NYCDA’s College Scholarship Foundation and the Lindsay Bennett Foundation. They’ve also been involved with the NF Hope’s annual concert and supported drives for Three Square and Toys for Tots. The Dance Zone also provides practice space to dancer’s performing in benefits. Recently they’ve begun a partnership with After School All-Stars, a group that provides comprehensive after school programs to keep kids safe and help them to succeed in school and in life. Artiga and the group have been holding dancewear costume drives and providing other supplies for All-Star after school dance programs. Jami Artiga talks about her love of dance, making a difference and sharing a bit of the magic with others around the community.
How did you begin using dance as a way of helping others?
“I started teaching and performing before I was 18. I have always loved dance and children. I worked professionally as a dancer anywhere I could until I had my second child. After he was born I turned to teaching dance as my career choice. I love sharing all I have learned in dance and in life with my students. Doing performances and benefits for non-profit organizations always gives me such a thrill. Many parents of our students are invested in an organization and also ask us to be a part. We love to help whenever we can.”
What do you enjoy most about performing for non-profits?
“It brings dancers and entertainers from all around to get together for a cause. We try to get involved with organizations as much as possible. It allows our dancers who have been given this gift to share with people who need something special, or even to help raise money for charities.”
Why do you feel it is so important to give back to the community?
“There is so much more than what is right in front of us. Being a small business we do not always have the money to give, but we have other resources at times that are valuable to others.”
What do you enjoy when you’re not in dance mode?
“When I am not at a dance competition, convention or fundraising event, you’ll find me at home or a family member’s home. I’m very lucky to have my sisters and mother here in Vegas as well. I spend as much free time as I can with my family. I enjoy sitting and chatting with my kids and husband. My kids don’t always love me invading their space but it makes me re-connect with what is truly important.”
Aside from dance and family, do you have any other passions?
“I’m passionate about children growing up happy and healthy. Dance is amazing for your mind and body but I’m also passionate about life and making the most of what you have.”
Kaydee Francis
We all have traditions of the season, whether it’s making an annual trip to view holiday lights, sharing special foods with family and friends, or making sure others have the benefit of a memorable holiday. Kaydee Francis of 89052 believes that even the little things make a big impact. She engages in a year-long tradition of small gestures every day, like smiling and opening a door for others as well as using her given gift of dance to make a difference in the community.
Dance has been a passion for Kaydee since she was very young. Growing up in Utah, it was an everyday part of her family. She began teaching dance at her mother’s studio as a teenager and, after college and dabbling in a few industries, returned to her first love. Her career has included working for two national dance competition companies as a Show Director and Adjudicator. She’s traveled the country teaching master classes and setting choreography for competitions and television. She finally fulfilled her dream of owning her own dance studio when she met her business partner Jami Artiga. Together, they created The Dance Zone.
The local dance facility not only gives young people an opportunity to learn and express themselves through the art, but also to help others by using their craft. The Dance Zone and its students have been associated with several charitable organizations such as Dancer’s Responding to Aids, Golden Rainbow, Josh Steven’s Foundation, Three Square and Toys for Tots. They recently partnered with After School All-Stars, a group that provides after school programs to keep kids safe and help them to succeed in school. Kaydee has been busy holding dancewear costume drives for All-Star after school dance programs. She tells us more about The Dance Zone, getting crafty and her favorite tradition.
It must have been exciting to start your own dance studio. How did it come about?
“Jami and I decided to go to breakfast at Blueberry Hill…little did we know that this meal would change the course of our lives. It was this breakfast where we conceptualized The Dance Zone!”
Why do you think it’s important to give back—even in little ways?
“My take on it is simple; be considerate and set a shining example. It’s not always how much time or money you donate to a charity that will give back to your community, but the example you set. Small actions can help grow a sense of community.”
Your efforts through The Dance Zone aren’t always so simple.
“We assist in a variety of ways both big and little from dancing at fundraising events to holding a drive for dance costumes, but I am most proud of watching our dancers grow from young people into passionate, beautiful and caring adults.”
What inspires you?
“I believe that if you want something you’ve never had before, you must DO something you’ve never done before!”
What else are you passionate about?
Spending time with my husband, friends and family, traveling and I love animals. I am mom to a giant dog and two fluffy kitties. I’ve also been involved with the organization No More Homeless Pets.”
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at the studio?
“I really enjoy getting crafty. If it’s messy you can count me in! I like painting and usually I’m sewing and adding rhinestones to costumes but I also love reading. I have tons of books lined up on my Kindle.”
Tell us something you think others might not know about you.
“I’m a big Tomboy! Even though I love my make-up and rhinestones, I love to camp, hike and spend time outdoors with my husband and dog.”
Any holiday traditions you’d like to share?
“It has to be my mom’s homemade lasagna. It’s our family’s holiday tradition.”
The Giving Spirit
The Giving Spirit
The holidays are our favorite time of the year at the Zip Code Magazines. We love decorating, eating delicious food (well…that’s all the time), spending quality time with our family and friends and just plain getting a little down time to appreciate everything we have and work for.
We also love this time of year because it seems to bring a feeling of gratitude and charity to our communities. If you’re looking for holiday charity opportunities in your neighborhood, here are some unique ideas:
AFAN’s Annual Holiday Toy Drive
www.afanlv.org | 382-2326
Help make this holiday season extra special for more than 200 children ages newborn to 15 that are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS living in Southern Nevada by donating to AFAN’s annual holiday toy drive through December 8. Bring unwrapped toys to any Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or Jamba Juice locations as well as the AFAN office at 1120 Almond Tree Ln.
Krispy Kreme Holiday Toy Drive benefitting Toys for Tots
www.krispykreme.com | Numerous Locations
Krispy Kreme will be spreading holiday cheer by hosting a month-long toy drive beginning on December 1 through December 24, with a complimentary donut for each toy donated. Drop unwrapped toys at any Krispy Kreme location and toys will be delivered to 98.5 KLUC’s Chet Buchanan & The Morning Zoo’s 15th Annual Toy Drive. Almost as good as donating to a child in need? Unlimited free donuts.
Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth
www.nphy.org | 383-1332
Help make a homeless youth’s wish come true this holiday season by participating in NPHY’s Angel Tree event. Participate by “adopting” one or more homeless youth off the Angel Tree list and fulfilling their holiday wishes, such as purchasing their favorite foods, gift cards to their favorite stores, appropriately sized clothing, and other gifts. Gifts should be dropped during operation hours at the William Fry drop-in center, 4981 Shirley St. Call (702) 383-1332 or email events@nphy.org for more information.
Operation Homefront
www.operationhomefront.net | 449-9987
Help give back to our military servicemen and women and their families this year by donating to Operation Homefront. Each year the local non-profit provides warm meals to military families at Nellis Air Force Base. This year 350 meals will be served and monetary donations are gratefully accepted.
Safe Kids Clark County
www.safekidsclarkcounty.org | 731-8666
Safe Kids Clark County is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention of injuries to children. Donate to Safe Kids this Christmas to help support education and awareness programs around accidental child injury.
Safe Nest
www.safenest.org | 877-0133
Support women and child victims of domestic abuse by donating a gas, grocery, phone or general gift card this holiday season. You can also participate in the inaugural Ugly Sweater Christmas Event, hosted by Circuit Med Spa + Salon, 2779 Sunridge Heights, with funds benefitting the non-profit. Visit www.circuitspa.com for more information.
Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation
Firefighters of Southern Nevada Burn Foundation is hosting its 12th annual “Fill the Fire Truck” Toy Drive. Las Vegas, Clark County, Henderson and North Las Vegas Fire Departments will participate in a three-week long effort to collect toys and gift cards for economically challenged children throughout the valley.
Toys will be collected the first three weekends in December with collections from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at five participating Wal-Mart locations including: 7200 Arroyo Cross Parkway (Rainbow/215), 8060 West Tropical Parkway (Centennial/95), 6464 North Decatur Boulevard (Decatur/215), 4350 North Nellis (Nellis/Craig), 540 Marks Street (Sunset/Marks).
Help for our animal friends: The Animal Foundation
Animals are a part of our family and can add so much love and laughter to a home. If you’re thinking of giving a furry companion a permanent home this holiday season, or just want to make their stay at a shelter a little warmer, here are some ways:
- Stop by the Fashion Show Mall, in front of Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, on December 7 for the annual Animal Foundation A Home for the Holidays dog adoption event.
- Participate in the Shelter Elves donation drive through the month of December as the Animal Foundation raises money to save lives.
- Keep pets happy and warm as they wait for their forever homes by donating new and gently used linens (blankets, towels, bath mats – anything without stuffing) to the Animal Foundation facility.
For more information about The Animal Foundation visit www.animalfoundation.com.
Nathan Adelson Hospice’s Pet Therapy Program – “Dog Bed and Blanket Drive”
As the winter months bring cooler weather, the loving dogs and one sweet cat in the Nathan Adelson Hospice Pet Therapy Program are once again helping their companions in local animal shelters.
From Dec. 1, 2013 through Jan. 31, 2014, all the Nathan Adelson Hospice locations will be collecting new or gently used items to deliver to the local shelters. Items being collected include: dog beds; blankets; towels; and unopened dog food. Donations can be dropped off at any of the Nathan Adelson Hospice locations: 4141 Swenson St., Las Vegas; in the MountainView Medical Office Building, 3150 N. Tenaya Way (near Cheyenne), Suite 350, Las Vegas; 1401 S. Highway 160, Suite B, Pahrump; and 1201 Nevada State Drive, Henderson.
Speed Photo Tour
The Speed Tour (Photo-op Tour)
These guys want the crash course in all things Las Vegas. With not much time to spare, they are looking to hit all the tourist hot spots (read: The Strip in all its glory) and have some genuine Vegas knowledge for their return home to those not lucky enough to spend the holidays in the “Entertainment Capital of the World.”
We divided this page into checklists for you to use as a resource, or provide to your guests should their tour be self-guided. Remember to mix and match based on interests!
The Ultimate Tourist Photo Tour
- Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, 5200 S. Las Vegas Blvd
If you haven’t been in a while, a new parking lot makes access a whole lot easier and less dangerous. - Fountains and the Bellagio, 3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Check online for schedule and music. Show starts every hour between the hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 7 p.m. to midnight. - Fall of Atlantis at Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace, 3570 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
See statues come to life in pure Las Vegas style. Shows begin every hour on the hour Sunday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday until midnight. - Volcano at the Mirage, 3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Shows begin at 7 p.m. and run every hour until 11 p.m. nightly. - Top of the World Restaurant at Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower, 2000 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- The Fremont Street Experience, 425 Freemont St.
- Binions Million Dollar Photo, 128 Fremont St.
Vegas Movies and TV Photo Tour
- Circus Circus, 2880 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas)
- Riviera, 2901 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (Casino, Ocean’s 11, Showgirls, Austin Powers)
- Tropicana, 3801 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (The Godfather)
- Bellagio, 3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (Ocean’s 11 and The Hangover)
- Caesar’s Palace, 3570 S. Las Vegas Blvd (Rainman)
- The Little Church of the West, 4617 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (Viva Las Vegas)
- Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, 713 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (Pawn Stars)
- Rick’s Restoration, 1112 S. Commerce St. (American Restoration)
Vegas “Around the World” and Biggest/Best Photo Tour
- Pyramid and Sphinx at the Luxor, 3900 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- New York Skyline at New York, New York, 3790 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, 3655 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian Hotel, 3377 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- World’s Biggest Gift Store, 2440 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
- Hand of Faith at the Golden Nugget, 129 E. Freemont St.
- Vegas Vic at Freemont Street Experience, 425 Freemont St.
- Hoover Dam
The Star Strucks
Star Strucks
They’re young, they’re fun and they are looking for the best time “Vegas” has to offer them. While you might not necessarily be able to keep up the whole time they are visiting, use this itinerary to point them in the direction of the best culture, food and downtown excitement they could imagine. (P.S. We make the assumption that this group is staying downtown or on The Strip and might possibly be on a budget.)
Noon
Yes, noon. Chances are this crew barely made it off the plane before hitting the town and they spent at least an hour this morning getting up and around, recounting the tales of last night’s adventure. Send them for some hair-of-the-dog and a yummy, greasy brunch at the iconic Peppermill Las Vegas, 2985 S. Las Vegas Blvd. You can’t beat awesome Bloody Marys priced right.
2 p.m.
Culture, history and art do not have to be a stuffy. Once their bellies are full, a trip to the Neon Museum, 770 Las Vegas Blvd. ($18 at www.neonmuseum.org), is culture made fun. For the video gamer, the Pinball Hall of Fame, 1610 E. Tropicana (Free admission at www.pinballmuseum.org), is 10,000 feet of heaven. They can fuel up and get an artistic fix at the Emergency Arts Building, 520 Fremont St, which is also a coffee shop. For a wholly different experience, send them on the Deuce. It’s cheap ($8 for 24 hours at www.rtcsnv.com), and hits all the major stops for a unique way to tour the city.
6 p.m.
We’ll bet this group has been planning dinner all day, and your tour guide skills will not disappoint. If they want to stay in the vicinity of downtown, Bar + Bistro @ The Arts Factory, 107 E Charleston Blvd #155, offers up killer tapas. For noodles, Le Thai, 523 E. Fremont St., is the spot although you should warn them to get there a little before the dinner rush lest HAVING to grab a drink at Commonwealth next door while they wait for a seat.
8 pm.
After dinner let the good times roll. Oh, last night you “hit” The Strip? Of course you did. “Well, tonight, how about checking out Fremont East District?” you’ll say. The new hotspot for the young and trendy in Las Vegas, this suggestion will earn you immediate cool points. For live music and cocktails suggest The Griffin or Don’t Tell Mama, both on Fremont Street. For some serious “frat house” fun, point them straight to Gold Spike, 217 Las Vegas Blvd. Wherever they end up in this area, it’s sure to be a great time.
11 a.m.
Aaaand, we’re back to brunch. This time, instead of a throwback like the Peppermill, shake things up by proposing a PJ party at Simon Restaurant & Lounge in The Palms, 4321 W. Flamingo Rd. The chicken and waffles will help dramatically in the recovery process, and they will toast to you with their mimosas for a purely successful Vegas holiday.
The Young Family
The Young Family
If you have kids, you’ve been here. For the most part they are looking for things they can do in town with the whole family; however, they probably won’t need much coaxing to enjoy an adult night out at least once during this weekend. Heeeere you come to save the day.
8 a.m.
Growing kids (and tired adults) need a good, hearty breakfast before starting off the day. With five locations across Southern Nevada, you can’t go wrong taking your guests to Egg Works or The Egg & I (www.theeggworks.com) to get your morning going. Huge portions, fast and friendly service and crayons for the kids are a plus. Visit to find the location closest to you.
10 a.m.
If the nieces and nephews are a little older and, like most children, fascinated by crime scenes and whodunit games, The CSI Experience in the MGM Grand is the place to go (reserve in advance at http://lasvegas.csiexhibit.com). Is this your wild younger sister whose kid has a Mohawk? Then KISS by Monster Mini Golf (http://monsterminigolf.com/kiss), is the place for you. The sweet spot for just about everyone is the Lion Habitat Ranch (www.thecathouse.us) where the king of beasts will entertain even the most restless of kids (and adults).
1 p.m.
When in Rome. Even though we have a hard time being “tourists,” that doesn’t mean our holiday company isn’t down for a little cheesy Las Vegas style. That’s where the Rainforest Café in the MGM Grand comes in. Since you showed them a locals place for breakfast there’s no better, over the top complement. If you opt for The CSI Experience beforehand it’s convenient, too. The atmosphere is fun and different and will keep the kids distracted enough for you to gear up for Part II.
2:30 p.m.
Vegas is known for being hot, right? Let’s show your visitors and their kids that we’re creative, and if we can’t really have a white winter we’re sure going to manufacture one. The Ice Rink at the Boulevard Pool in The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas opens November 22 and is popular for creating the “winter” vibe we love so much. At $15 ($10 for locals) it’s the prime place to bring the kids for a fun, energy-expending afternoon. S’mores and firepit? Check.
6 p.m.
This is the opportunity for you to be the world’s best family member. Offer to watch the kids and send mom and dad out for a romantic dinner on their own. Off The Strip try for Marche Bacchus, 2620 Regatta Drive, or Hank’s Fine Steaks in the Green Valley Ranch, 2300 Paseo Verde Dr., in Green Valley. On The Strip we love Mon Ami Gabi, 3655 S. Las Vegas Blvd., if you can sit on the patio. They won’t be able to thank you enough. As for you, why not take the youngsters to Glittering Lights (www.glitteringlightslasvegas.com)?
The Outdoorsy/Active Types
The Outdoorsy/Active Types
These guys (and ladies) like to have good time, but not before getting their sweat on, enjoying quality time in the Great Outdoors or having some kind of risky undertaking to get their blood moving. Luckily our town is quite adept in risk taking and over-the-top adventures. You may even experience something new for yourself!
8 a.m.
Rise and shine it’s fresh air time. Two options less than an hour drive from town are the Red Rock Canyon Morning Horseback Ride ($119 at www.allvegastours.com) which includes breakfast and gorgeous views, or Huevos Rancheros and a Bloody Mary (bacon please!) at The Coffee Cup (www.worldfamouscoffeecup.com) in Boulder City followed by an invigorating zipline tour of Bootleg Canyon ($159 at www.flightlinezbootleg.com). Neither will disappoint.
1:30 p.m.
Head back into town to show your visitors The Strip is more than “Maltese Fortune” slot machines for sissies. The Stratosphere rides ($23-$34 at www.stratospherehotel.com) will get anyone’s heart pounding and if you’re really the crazy kind, spend the extra $110 on the new SkyJump™. Still not enough? Take a dip in the Shark-Reef at the Mandalay Bay (www.mandalaybay.com). At a whopping $650 per diver this one calls for advance planning…but hey…some only come here once, right?
4 p.m.
Ok, they’ve earned their stripes and obviously want to buy you a beer for being the “Best. Tour Guide. Ever.” Not just any beer, though. Let them experience hometown brews at one of our local breweries. We like Big Dog’s Draft House, 4543 N. Rancho Drive (5 tasters for $6 at www.bigdogsbrews.com); Tenaya Creek Brewery, ($1 per 4 oz. taster at www.tenayacreek.com ); Triple 7 in Main Street Station, (5 tasters for $3.95 at www.mainstreetcasino.com) or Barley’s Casino & Brew Pub, (4 tasters for $3.99 at https://wildfire.sclv.com/Barleys.aspx).
6:30 p.m.
Now’s time to show them the best restaurant in your neck of the woods, so they don’t go home telling people you live in a hotel. Honey Salt’s (1031 S Rampart Blvd) farm-to-table chic is a great fit for this granola group and has many options as well as a kid’s menu (www.honeysalt.com). The fresh ingredients and authentic feel of the new Novecento Pizzeria (expanded to 9460 S. Eastern Ave., www.novecentopizza.com), is sure to be a hit if you live in Green Valley. If they just HAVE to eat on The Strip, Sage at Aria should do the trick (3730 S. Las Vegas Blvd, www.arialasvegas.com).
8:30 p.m.
What’s Vegas without a little fun out on the town? Let’s show them the honkey tonk side of Vegas they probably didn’t know existed. For dancing, you can’t go wrong with Stoney’s Rockin’ Country in Town Square (www.stoneysrockincountry.com). Live music and buckin’ broncos (read: mechanical bulls) also abound at Coyote Ugly in the New York, New York ( www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/vegas) or Gilley’s in the Treasure Island (www.gilleyslasvegas.com).
A Tour for All Tastes
We all have one – Aunt Beth, Uncle Albert or a distant cousin who seems to know all the best places, shows, deals and tours to take out-of-town guests when they visit Las Vegas. The starry-eyed tourists get off the plane, are greeted by said family member at baggage claim and promptly whisked away for a weekend trip they’ll never forget.
Then, there’s you. Between back-to-school homework help, work, the gym and holiday gift shopping, somehow planning the perfect itinerary for your holiday visitors didn’t make the top priority list. You want to show them a good time, but some have different tastes (who knows what your niece on winter break from grad school wants to do), and for reasons unbeknownst to you, your motherboard has been completely stripped of ideas for a good restaurant aside from the one you frequent, maybe too often, down the street from your house. Well we are here to help!
Here are some great ideas for tour itineraries around our beloved city for different tastes and interests. We know there’s not one true stereotype, so feel free to pick and choose from each itinerary to get the perfect tour for your guests! You don’t even have to give us credit for making it look easy, but beware… soon Aunt Beth may be calling you for sightseeing advice.
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Click on the categories below for an itinerary:
The Outdoorsy/Active Types (“Let’s go on a hike”)
Could be:
– Living in a place where every person owns and regularly uses a mountain bike
– Has competed in a long and scary-looking obstacle course or 24-hour relay race
– Always looking for a new adventure
The Young Family (“Can we take the kids?”)
Could be:
– Juggling babies or young toddlers
– Looking for “family-friendly” Vegas
– Hoping for just one kid-free night (that’s where you come in)
Star Strucks (“Vegas Baby”)
Could be:
– Twenty or Thirty-Something’s
– You’ve heard them use the words “Foodie” or “Sin City”
– Wearing dark-rimmed glasses or possibly Greek letters from college
The Speed Tour (“We don’t have long”)
Could be:
– Just in for one day
– The “gawker”
– Need good photos and a good story for their friends back home
