Vegas is like stepping into an entire different world—it’s wild, flashy, and full of surprises. I’ve visited Vegas several time, but perhaps the best time I’ve ever had was this two-day excursion full of incredible grub, offbeat productions, and the perfect mix of fun.
Whether you’re all into nice eats, nightlife, casinos, or simply relaxing with a cocktail while watching the world go by, Sin City does it all perfectly every time.
Are you already considering going to Las Vegas for a few days? I’ve got two fantastic itineraries that you’ll enjoy to the max. One is totally relaxing, good for couples or friends that just want to enjoy the atmosphere of the city. The other is high-energy, best for party animals and adventure seekers. You can mix and match depending on what you feel like!
Day 1: Arrival Day – Food, Scenery & Little Bit of Fun
I completely believe the way to start a Vegas trip is to pamper yourself, you know? I mean, sure, it’s the desert, but seriously, Champagne and chandeliers, right?
Check-In: Stripside Luxury
If you can pull it off, book yourself into the Cosmopolitan or the Wynn. They’re fabulous Vegas hotels with incredible views and the best atmosphere. I treated myself last time I was there to a fountain-view suite at the Bellagio. Waking up to watching the fountains dance? Worth it, no question!
Once you arrive, no hurry! Just take a moment to take it all in—the sparkly city skyline, the wind carrying the fresh smells and good vibes.
Late lunch at Mon Ami Gabi in Paris Las Vegas
Once I’m all checked in, I just adore walking over to Mon Ami Gabi, this adorable French bistro at Paris Las Vegas. Seriously, the patio is fabulous—great place to sit, look around at everybody, and enjoy some rosé, along with some steak frites, of course. I recall just lounging there for an hour, observing all the Elvis impersonators walking around wearing stilts. Only Vegas, I suppose!
If French cuisine isn’t your favorite, Eataly in the Park MGM is an excellent option as well. They have loads of options, great drinks, and a lively ambiance.
Afternoon: Relax or try your luck at the tables
Las Vegas is completely what you make it, you know? Some individuals just dive headlong into the casinos. But I’m all about visiting the themed hotels—like the Venetian, Caesar’s Palace, and the Luxor—because they’re like mini universes unto themselves.
If you don’t know the first thing how to gamble, plug 20 bucks into the slot machines and get yourself a drink while you give it a go. I actually won $60 off one of the Wizard of Oz slots, and I promise you, the machine sang to me!
Or, forget the slots altogether and treat yourself to a spa day. The Spa at Encore is no joke. I had a deep tissue massage there once that completely transformed my entire vibe.
Evening: Golden Hour & Dinner with a View
You have to check out the Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay when the sun begins to set. It’s seriously one of the coolest rooftop bars in Vegas, and the view of the Strip is insane. Order a drink, take some selfies, and completely feel like you’re in a music video.
Dinner was so much fun! I completely adored having dinner at Bazaar Meat by José Andrés—gosh, that steak is ridiculous, and there are so many crazy small plates to sample. If you want something fancier, Catch at Aria has incredible seafood and such a neat atmosphere. Just be sure to book your table early, though!
Nightlife: Party, Speakeasies, or Shows
If you’re visiting Vegas for the first time, you need to see a show. “O” from Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio is wild—there’s literally a pool onstage and acrobats dive into it from 60 feet above.
If you enjoy live performances or something a bit crazy, you have to see Absinthe at Caesars Palace. It is completely crazy, hilarious, and you’ll never forget it.
You going to any parties? Vegas is definitely the place to be, no question. Omnia at Caesars has this insane chandelier that literally moves to the music. XS at Encore is poolside and ultra chic. I ended up dancing beside this guy I’m pretty sure was a well-known DJ, but really, who can tell—it’s Vegas, right?
Day 2: Entertainment, trendy art, and old-school Vegas experiences
Day 2 is all about discovery, embracing that desert feel, and checking items off your bucket list. Seriously, it all really kicks off here!
Morning: Sunrise at Red Rock Canyon or a Hangover Brunch
If you’re feeling up to it, skip the city early and head to Red Rock Canyon. It’s only thirty minutes away, and I promise the sunrise there is completely incredible. Check out the Calico Tanks trail and you’ll be glad that you’ve done so later.
But seriously, if you’re at the club until 3 AM, you’re never going to wake up early, so going to brunch at Sadelle’s at the Bellagio is the way to go. Their pancakes are incredible, you have to get the smoked salmon platter, though! Or keep the celebration going at LAVO Brunch and keep the drinks flowing.
Late Morning: Explore the artistic side of Vegas
One of my favorite discoveries was AREA15, this really fun art and entertainment complex just off the Strip. When you go inside, you have to explore Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart—it’s like a wild, interactive art adventure that’s a haunted house, sci-fi movie, and contemporary art museum all rolled into one. It’s completely nuts. I actually spent an hour climbing through secret doors and hidden passages, and I still can’t believe I witnessed a milk carton singing opera!
If you like murals and that old-school vibe, you’ve got to go to Fremont East Arts District and Downtown Las Vegas. There are so many fun coffee houses, breweries, and so much local character. Stop at Mothership Coffee and get yourself a cold brew, then take your time walking around.
Afternoon: Pool Party or Retro Vibes
If pool time (which, to be real, in Vegas is nine months of the year) is happening, you’ve gotta attend a pool party. Marquee Dayclub and Encore Beach Club are the spots to be at. You can drink, swim, and dance simultaneously, which, I know, does seem a bit crazy, but it really works in Vegas.
Looking for something chiller? Check out the Neon Museum. It’s where all the old Vegas signs go to retire. I loved walking through it—it’s equal parts nostalgic and neon-blasted magic.
Pro tip: go just before sunset for that perfect golden light.
Dinner: the Last Supper
For your final night, you have to make it really unforgettable! Estiatorio Milos at the Venetian has really fresh seafood and a wonderful atmosphere. Or, if you like Gordon Ramsay (and who doesn’t?), try Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars. I had the beef Wellington—it really lives up to all the hype!
If you like Japanese cuisine, you have to go to Kabuto in Chinatown—it’s just a short ride. It’s really tiny and low-key, and believe me, this omakase will be all you’ll be able to talk about for weeks!
Last night: Hop aboard the High Roller or go all-in!
Finish off your break by riding the High Roller, this giant observation wheel at The LINQ. I know, I know, it kind of sounds cheesy, but trust me, the nighttime view of the Strip is absolutely incredible—especially when you have a drink in hand.
If you still have some energy (and money) left, why not finish the evening off in style? Get a table at VooDoo at Rio, the crème de la crème, where you can drink, dance, and take in those incredible city lights from high above.
I was enjoying an espresso martini the night before at this quiet bar that’s nestled behind a janitor closet inside the Cosmopolitan. Vegas can be wild like that—just when you think you’ve seen everything, you end up at this speakeasy with velvet walls and offbeat tunes at 2 AM, courtesy the DJ.
Making the Most Out of Your 2-Day Vegas Vacation
I just wanted to include some last-minute advice that I wish I’d known the first time I went through this.
- Hydrate constantly: Between the dry desert air and the cocktails, you’ll need it.
- Book in advance: Restaurants and performances become really busy, particularly at the weekend.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing much more walking than you think.
- Take a rideshare: Parking is a pain, and traffic on the Strip is no laughing matter.
- Be spontaneous: Some of my best Vegas experiences weren’t exactly planned—they just happened.
Wrapping things up: 48 hours of ultimate fun in the Mojave!
Vegas is wild, though? It is so loud, so bright, so crazy—and I am so down with that. Two days doesn’t seem like much, but you can really fit all the necessary stops in and feel like you fit five lifetimes into the weekend, you know, if you know what you’re doing.
Whether you’re sipping some espressos martinis at one of those speakeasy cocktail lounges, getting wowed by acrobats completely blowing everyone’s minds above you, or lounging poolside with your BFF, Vegas genuinely has you feeling like the rockstar that you are.
You’ve gotta do it—pull out your flashiest getup, reserve that fabulous room with the awesome view, and go all the way. Vegas is all about having fun. And honestly, you completely deserve it.