Summer Vegas
So many people love simply strolling up and down the Vegas strip taking in the sites, I wanted to share a few of those sites from a recent trip.
Posts
Featured Post
GUEST BLOG - TIPS FOR TRAVEL TO SALEM, MA
GUEST BLOG BY MEYERPHOTOVIDEO.COM
Salem, Massachusetts, located less than an hour north of Boston, is infamous for its witch trials. As such, visitors visit the town in droves in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak.Considering a vacation to Salem? You are in for a treat! Outside of Halloween, visiting Salem is much more budget-friendly, however, the town lacks the festivities that make it worth visiting.
Take the Salem Trolley when you arrive in Salem to experience an hour-long tour covering Salem’s past and present. After your tour, you can use the trolley throughout the day to hop on and off around town. For specific information, visit SalemTrolley.com. Personally, I took the trolley for sightseeing but did a lot of travel around town with our car. Salem is a popular destination in the fall, and it was a bit too cold to walk on foot the whole day. Once in Salem, you’ll be pleased to find that most everything you’d want to do is within walking distance, but depending on season, …
Salem, Massachusetts, located less than an hour north of Boston, is infamous for its witch trials. As such, visitors visit the town in droves in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak.Considering a vacation to Salem? You are in for a treat! Outside of Halloween, visiting Salem is much more budget-friendly, however, the town lacks the festivities that make it worth visiting.
Take the Salem Trolley when you arrive in Salem to experience an hour-long tour covering Salem’s past and present. After your tour, you can use the trolley throughout the day to hop on and off around town. For specific information, visit SalemTrolley.com. Personally, I took the trolley for sightseeing but did a lot of travel around town with our car. Salem is a popular destination in the fall, and it was a bit too cold to walk on foot the whole day. Once in Salem, you’ll be pleased to find that most everything you’d want to do is within walking distance, but depending on season, …
Elope in Vegas
Married in Vegas
We’re going to the chapel and we’re going to get married…
Yup, that’s what happened and Vegas style! If you’ve ever considered tying the knot in Sin City, but you heard it would be unmemorable or even, dare I say, cheesy, you should keep reading.
We had the most amazing time getting married in Vegas!
Coming from Massachusetts, my husband and I planned ahead for the license, hair, limo but then other parts we just let the chips fly where they may.I hope our experience helps others.
Marriage License
Apply online before you go. Remember, you’re on vacation and you don’t want to be stuck in lines at the Clark County Licensing Bureau. Applying online is easy and the link can be found, along with a lot of other helpful information, on the website. http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/clerk/pages/default.aspx
Tip: Since the office is only three blocks from Fremont Street, take the bus from your strip hotel to the bureau, complete the license process, and then continued on to Freem…
We’re going to the chapel and we’re going to get married…
Yup, that’s what happened and Vegas style! If you’ve ever considered tying the knot in Sin City, but you heard it would be unmemorable or even, dare I say, cheesy, you should keep reading.
We had the most amazing time getting married in Vegas!
Coming from Massachusetts, my husband and I planned ahead for the license, hair, limo but then other parts we just let the chips fly where they may.I hope our experience helps others.
Marriage License
Apply online before you go. Remember, you’re on vacation and you don’t want to be stuck in lines at the Clark County Licensing Bureau. Applying online is easy and the link can be found, along with a lot of other helpful information, on the website. http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/clerk/pages/default.aspx
Tip: Since the office is only three blocks from Fremont Street, take the bus from your strip hotel to the bureau, complete the license process, and then continued on to Freem…
Top 5 Bonuses on Slot Machines
Slot players love bonuses!
Here's a list of 5 games we love to play just based on the bonus games. Having fun while winning money is the name of the game.
In no particular order:
1. Simpsons Slot Machine: Double seater (already a plus), three screen slot machine with a variety of bonuses. There's a random monorail bonus, donut bonus, and bonus based on your favorite character appearing in all four corners of the game. This is a colorful and noisy machine. Plus, what could be more fun than hearing Homer antagonizing the player to hit the button and making the infamous "Doh".
2. Buffalo: One of the most popular games with slot players. There are many versions of this game from one screen old games to giant large screen game with two seaters and then there is a four screen versions with a mix of buffalo and other classics. On this newer version, this is what the player is hoping for along with hoping to get the grand prize won by a spin when you trigger the bonus. The …
In no particular order:
1. Simpsons Slot Machine: Double seater (already a plus), three screen slot machine with a variety of bonuses. There's a random monorail bonus, donut bonus, and bonus based on your favorite character appearing in all four corners of the game. This is a colorful and noisy machine. Plus, what could be more fun than hearing Homer antagonizing the player to hit the button and making the infamous "Doh".
2. Buffalo: One of the most popular games with slot players. There are many versions of this game from one screen old games to giant large screen game with two seaters and then there is a four screen versions with a mix of buffalo and other classics. On this newer version, this is what the player is hoping for along with hoping to get the grand prize won by a spin when you trigger the bonus. The …
The Best Four Days in Vegas
The Best Plan With Four Days in Vegas
Fly in on a Wednesday night. If you come from the east coast like us, you'll arrive starving. Forget the idea that you'll be tired when you arrive; you won't be when you pick up your bags and feel that southwest night air. You'll be wide awake by the time you see the lights of the strip.
We always stay near NYNY so our first stop is there. Go grab some late night dinner (or breakfast) at America's in NYNY Casino. We love this place. There's an amazing 3D map of the United States to look at as you marvel at the fact that "I'm in Vegas!" They have breakfast all day, a late night menu, gluten free options, and delicious desserts.
After a good meal, walk right over to the piano bar. Wednesday nights are quiet so sit down and relax at the bar slots, throw in a $20, and have a drink or two.
Leave NYNY out the exit by the Zumanity Theatre and take some pictures there with the Zumanity props. It's fun. This exit …
Fly in on a Wednesday night. If you come from the east coast like us, you'll arrive starving. Forget the idea that you'll be tired when you arrive; you won't be when you pick up your bags and feel that southwest night air. You'll be wide awake by the time you see the lights of the strip.
We always stay near NYNY so our first stop is there. Go grab some late night dinner (or breakfast) at America's in NYNY Casino. We love this place. There's an amazing 3D map of the United States to look at as you marvel at the fact that "I'm in Vegas!" They have breakfast all day, a late night menu, gluten free options, and delicious desserts.
After a good meal, walk right over to the piano bar. Wednesday nights are quiet so sit down and relax at the bar slots, throw in a $20, and have a drink or two.
Leave NYNY out the exit by the Zumanity Theatre and take some pictures there with the Zumanity props. It's fun. This exit …
Enjoy New Hampshire, Jackson Falls
In a world that is fast moving, this is a moment of joy. A moment to relax and enjoy each other.
Next time you visit the White Mountains and North Conway area, consider adding Jackson Falls
to your list of places to see.
Jackson Falls, although well-known to locals, seems less well-known to those visiting the area.
Santa’s Village, the Saco River, outlet shopping, and Zebs all deserve to be on the must see list
and so should Jackson Falls.
Small kids. Teens hard to please. A young couple in love. Generations of family and friends.
Jackson Falls is a fun afternoon for everyone.
Jackson center includes a quaint library, restaurant called Yesterday’s, and a small school with soccer
fields and a gazebo across the street. There is parking across from the school and when we parked
there we just had a nice, quiet walk over a small cross over bridge and then up the hill to the falls.
This is on sidewalks so it is a safe walk, but families with small children should consider parking at the
Falls…
Next time you visit the White Mountains and North Conway area, consider adding Jackson Falls
to your list of places to see.
Jackson Falls, although well-known to locals, seems less well-known to those visiting the area.
Santa’s Village, the Saco River, outlet shopping, and Zebs all deserve to be on the must see list
and so should Jackson Falls.
Small kids. Teens hard to please. A young couple in love. Generations of family and friends.
Jackson Falls is a fun afternoon for everyone.
Jackson center includes a quaint library, restaurant called Yesterday’s, and a small school with soccer
fields and a gazebo across the street. There is parking across from the school and when we parked
there we just had a nice, quiet walk over a small cross over bridge and then up the hill to the falls.
This is on sidewalks so it is a safe walk, but families with small children should consider parking at the
Falls…
Mary Jane Falls at Mt. Charleston
Mary Jane Falls at Mt. Charleston
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is an easy 1 hour drive Northwest from Last Vegas.
Once you enter Spring Mountain National Recreation Area, continue up Kyle Canyon Road until you reach the fire station. At the fire station, you will stay right in the roundabout (or traffic circle) onto Echo Road. Follow this road until you reach the Mary Jane Falls Trailhead. This is a popular trail so parking fills up quickly. We arrived at 8 am on our late July hike and the parking lot was already more than 1/2 full.
This area of Nevada is known to be 20 degrees cooler than the weather on the Las Vegas strip, which makes this a great getaway from the oppressive 100 degree heat. This hike is most popular in the spring and summer.
The hike begins from the north side of the parking lot. The beginning of the hike is an easy walk slowly increasing in elevation while surrounded by ponderosa pines and aspens.
As the hike continues, the trail becomes a switch …
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is an easy 1 hour drive Northwest from Last Vegas.
Once you enter Spring Mountain National Recreation Area, continue up Kyle Canyon Road until you reach the fire station. At the fire station, you will stay right in the roundabout (or traffic circle) onto Echo Road. Follow this road until you reach the Mary Jane Falls Trailhead. This is a popular trail so parking fills up quickly. We arrived at 8 am on our late July hike and the parking lot was already more than 1/2 full.
This area of Nevada is known to be 20 degrees cooler than the weather on the Las Vegas strip, which makes this a great getaway from the oppressive 100 degree heat. This hike is most popular in the spring and summer.
The hike begins from the north side of the parking lot. The beginning of the hike is an easy walk slowly increasing in elevation while surrounded by ponderosa pines and aspens.
As the hike continues, the trail becomes a switch …
Eating Gluten Free In Vegas: Buffets and Happy Hours
Traveling to Vegas: Eating Gluten Free at Buffets and Happy Hours
When I first starting vacationing in Vegas with my husband, we were both eating whatever and wherever we wanted. Then, 6 years ago, I was told I have an allergy to wheat and my only option was a gluten free diet. Here are my favorite, inexpensive places to eat which are also approved by my gluten-loving husband.
Buffets
My husband loves the buffet. This is a tricky compromise because there's the risk of people mixing gluten and non-gluten silverware. Here are my two suggested buffets. We've eaten here a lot and I've never been sick after eating at these two places. (I just said never...hopefully not jinxing myself here)
Craving at the Mirage mirage.comis a buffet we have enjoyed pre and post gluten diagnosis. This is your health so speak up and ask the host or one of the cooks to speak to a chef about what is gluten free and what is not. The chef will give you a quick tour which is very helpful. Don't be s…
When I first starting vacationing in Vegas with my husband, we were both eating whatever and wherever we wanted. Then, 6 years ago, I was told I have an allergy to wheat and my only option was a gluten free diet. Here are my favorite, inexpensive places to eat which are also approved by my gluten-loving husband.
Buffets
My husband loves the buffet. This is a tricky compromise because there's the risk of people mixing gluten and non-gluten silverware. Here are my two suggested buffets. We've eaten here a lot and I've never been sick after eating at these two places. (I just said never...hopefully not jinxing myself here)
Craving at the Mirage mirage.comis a buffet we have enjoyed pre and post gluten diagnosis. This is your health so speak up and ask the host or one of the cooks to speak to a chef about what is gluten free and what is not. The chef will give you a quick tour which is very helpful. Don't be s…
Family Camping
Family Camping: Comparing Campgrounds on Cape Cod and North Conway
Camping is a fantastic way to vacation. I have been camping with my children since my boys were 2 and 3 years old. I started camping in 2006 as a single mom with two, very active boys and a dog. I was stressed, overwhelmed, and struggling to find a way to relax on a vacation with a budget when someone suggested I try camping. I borrowed a tent, packed up food and the basics and I experienced my first camping weekend. Over the years, camping has changed for me; I camp with a camper and I am a happy wife with three kids and two are teens. What has not changed is the feeling I get on that first camping night when the food is put away, the kid's bikes are out of the truck, and my worries consist of thoughts about finding enough logs and sticks to keep the fire going for those yummy s'mores.
That first trip camping over a decade ago was at Maple Park Campground in Wareham, Massachusetts. Our most recent trip ther…
Camping is a fantastic way to vacation. I have been camping with my children since my boys were 2 and 3 years old. I started camping in 2006 as a single mom with two, very active boys and a dog. I was stressed, overwhelmed, and struggling to find a way to relax on a vacation with a budget when someone suggested I try camping. I borrowed a tent, packed up food and the basics and I experienced my first camping weekend. Over the years, camping has changed for me; I camp with a camper and I am a happy wife with three kids and two are teens. What has not changed is the feeling I get on that first camping night when the food is put away, the kid's bikes are out of the truck, and my worries consist of thoughts about finding enough logs and sticks to keep the fire going for those yummy s'mores.
That first trip camping over a decade ago was at Maple Park Campground in Wareham, Massachusetts. Our most recent trip ther…
Going Up! Riding the High Roller in Vegas
Going Up, Vegas Style
I am afraid of heights. Really afraid. I just don't like to be up high and I certainly don't like to look down and yet one of my most talked about adventures in Las Vegas is when my husband and I rode the tallest ferris wheel. Usually, if my kids and husband convince me to ride a roller coaster after constant nagging and sweet talking, it's a miracle and they have to promise not to laugh at me. A couple of years ago they convinced me to ride the Disney Snow White roller coaster and I insisted on sitting with my little girl so I could hold her hand. In reality, I knew she would hold my hand! Call it wimpy, call it smart but in truth it takes a lot to get my feet to leave the ground.
Where is it?
If you don't know, the High Roller in Vegas is located behind the Linq. This is a nice, new area of the strip full of unique shops, restaurants, bars, and fun oversized games like Jenga and Bean-Bag toss. At the end of the walkway, there stands the 550 foot…
I am afraid of heights. Really afraid. I just don't like to be up high and I certainly don't like to look down and yet one of my most talked about adventures in Las Vegas is when my husband and I rode the tallest ferris wheel. Usually, if my kids and husband convince me to ride a roller coaster after constant nagging and sweet talking, it's a miracle and they have to promise not to laugh at me. A couple of years ago they convinced me to ride the Disney Snow White roller coaster and I insisted on sitting with my little girl so I could hold her hand. In reality, I knew she would hold my hand! Call it wimpy, call it smart but in truth it takes a lot to get my feet to leave the ground.
Where is it?
If you don't know, the High Roller in Vegas is located behind the Linq. This is a nice, new area of the strip full of unique shops, restaurants, bars, and fun oversized games like Jenga and Bean-Bag toss. At the end of the walkway, there stands the 550 foot…
The Vegas Strip - Quick Tips When You Arrive
Las Vegas Strip - Quick Tips
To anyone who knows myself or my husband, there's no question that our favorite place to have an adventure is in Nevada and these adventures always begin with flying into McCarran International Airport.
McCarran Airport:
There are slot machines in the airport. Yup, it is true. You'll find slots at the gates and at the doors before you leave the airport. There are plenty of games and fun to be had on the Vegas strip so I don't ever stop to play these when we arrive; however, if when you're leaving your flight is delayed and you just didn't get enough yet I say go for it!
Leaving the Airport using Ride Share:
Use Uber or Lyft. The only people who say use a cab are people who are not confident enough to try using something new (although Uber and Lyft are not that new anymore). Coming to Las Vegas and having to take a cab was the worst experience for my husband and I for years. We tried city busses, shuttles, and renting our own car jus…
To anyone who knows myself or my husband, there's no question that our favorite place to have an adventure is in Nevada and these adventures always begin with flying into McCarran International Airport.
McCarran Airport:
There are slot machines in the airport. Yup, it is true. You'll find slots at the gates and at the doors before you leave the airport. There are plenty of games and fun to be had on the Vegas strip so I don't ever stop to play these when we arrive; however, if when you're leaving your flight is delayed and you just didn't get enough yet I say go for it!
Leaving the Airport using Ride Share:
Use Uber or Lyft. The only people who say use a cab are people who are not confident enough to try using something new (although Uber and Lyft are not that new anymore). Coming to Las Vegas and having to take a cab was the worst experience for my husband and I for years. We tried city busses, shuttles, and renting our own car jus…
Walking Through History - Historic Railroad Trails
Historic Railroad Trail
Wanting to get away from the Vegas strip, but not for too long? My suggestion is to rent a car and take a drive out to Nevada's Historic Railroad Trail. Just 30 miles from Vegas, the Historic Railroad Trail is a flat, easy walk that includes five tunnels and beautiful views of Lake Mead.
History
I know this is not history class, so I'll keep this brief.
As hikers, dog-walkers, visitors, and locals walk along this smooth dirt path, they will be walking through a portion of the railroad route that ran from Boulder City to the Hoover Dam from 1931 to 1961. Along the route, there are information plaques about the area so don't forget to take a minute and read these as you travel along. In addition, further historical information can be found inside the hotel/casino (where you can also park for free, use the restroom, buy water, snacks, and even gamble if you decide).
What to Expect
This well maintained trail can become crowded as the morning becomes af…
Wanting to get away from the Vegas strip, but not for too long? My suggestion is to rent a car and take a drive out to Nevada's Historic Railroad Trail. Just 30 miles from Vegas, the Historic Railroad Trail is a flat, easy walk that includes five tunnels and beautiful views of Lake Mead.
History
I know this is not history class, so I'll keep this brief.
As hikers, dog-walkers, visitors, and locals walk along this smooth dirt path, they will be walking through a portion of the railroad route that ran from Boulder City to the Hoover Dam from 1931 to 1961. Along the route, there are information plaques about the area so don't forget to take a minute and read these as you travel along. In addition, further historical information can be found inside the hotel/casino (where you can also park for free, use the restroom, buy water, snacks, and even gamble if you decide).
What to Expect
This well maintained trail can become crowded as the morning becomes af…