Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the U.S., with over 40.8 million1 tourists flocking to the city in 2023. The city has been dubbed ‘the entertainment capital of the world’ and is well-known for its vast array of casinos, unique restaurants, fancy hotels, and nightlife venues.
But which experiences should be at the top of your Vegas bucket list?
Prime Casino has created the ultimate guide for an unforgettable Vegas vacation, from wedding chapels and hotel stays to residency concerts and extreme experiences.
The Best Vegas Wedding Chapels To Tie The Knot
Las Vegas is an incredibly popular location for marriages, mainly due to the easy process and minimal costs involved. Approximately 219 marriage licenses are issued in the city daily, totalling around 80,000 marriages a year!2
It’s the perfect place for couples who want a fun and unique wedding. Many chapels even offer themed ceremonies, such as Star Wars, Hawaiian, and, of course, the iconic Elvis impersonators.
1) The Little Vegas Chapel - 8.55 out of 10
Topping the list is The Little Vegas Chapel, with an impressive score of 8.55 out of 10. The venue, located on S. 3rd Street, offers couples two options: the Archway Chapel or the Imperial Chapel. They even offer a live-stream service for loved ones who cannot attend a ceremony.
The venue scores 4.9 out of 5 on Google Reviews and is commended for its friendly and helpful staff, talented photographer, and romantic atmosphere. Over the last year, The Little Vegas Chapel was searched more than 44,900 times on Google.
2) Graceland Wedding Chapel - 8.41 out of 10
Graceland Wedding Chapel follows closely behind, scoring 8.41 out of 10. The venue receives 4.8 stars on Google Reviews, with many claiming to have had their dream Elvis wedding or vow renewal here. More than 142,300 Google searches were conducted for Graceland Wedding Chapel over the past year.
The venue is located on S Las Vegas Blvd and has been featured on both the big screen (Fools Rush In and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas) and the small screen (90-Day Fiancé and Say Yes to the Dress). Many celebrities have also gotten married at the chapel, including David Harbour and Lily Allen, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Jon Bon Jovi.
4) Bliss Wedding Chapel and Chapel of the Flowers - 7.97 out of 10
In joint third place are Bliss Wedding Chapel and Chapel of the Flowers, both located on S Las Vegas Blvd and earning a score of 7.97 out of 10. As well as traditional chapel ceremonies, Bliss Wedding Chapel also offers outdoor ceremonies at breathtaking locations, such as the Grand Canyon and the Valley of Fire. The venue has 4.9 stars on Google Reviews and was searched over 51,100 times over the last year.
Chapel of the Flowers offers 11 different ceremony locations for couples to choose from, including the rustic-chic Glass Gardens, the famous Married in Las Vegas sign, and three chapels. More than 239,300 Google searches were conducted for the venue over the past year, and it currently has 4.6 stars on Google Reviews.
The Most Unique Vegas Dining Experiences
Las Vegas is home to over 4,7003 restaurants, from cheap eats such as Tacos el Gordo and Eggscellent to fine-dining like Primal Steakhouse and The Capital Grille. This is in addition to some of the U.S.’s favourite chain restaurants, meaning there truly is something for everyone, no matter your taste or budget.
The city is known for its unique dining experiences, whether it’s the restaurant’s decor or how the food is served, helping you make special memories while enjoying a delicious meal.
1) Peppermill Restaurant and Lounge - 8.16 out of 10
Topping the list is Peppermill Restaurant and Lounge, earning a score of 8.16 out of 10. The restaurant is well-known for its neon-lit bar and booth seating. Famous magician Penn Jillette (of Penn and Teller) even had a custom-built booth installed in his home, modelled off those found in the Peppermill!
Anyone wanting to fill their bellies with a big breakfast before a day of exploring can enjoy the likes of country-style ham and eggs, ambrosia French toast, and the Maserati omelette. If you’re planning on visiting for lunch or an evening meal, choices include the Sin City B.L.T., pineapple express burger, and shrimp scampi acapulco.
Peppermill Restaurant and Lounge received 4.5 stars on Google Reviews and was searched over 334,500 times over the last year.
2) Hell’s Kitchen - 7.82 out of 10
Next up is one of Vegas’ most famous restaurants—Hell’s Kitchen. Earning a score of 7.82, the venue's decor takes inspiration from the hit reality TV show starring world-famous chef Gordon Ramsay. Over 300 guests can be seated in the vast restaurant, which also has two chef’s tables, a private dining room, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.
Hell’s Kitchen is the perfect place to visit for a special meal if you want to splash the cash, as menu items certainly aren’t cheap, but they are definitely worth it! Diners can enjoy a range of high-quality, delicious meals, including grilled Australian lamb, crispy skin salmon, and of course, Gordon’s famous beef wellington.
Over one million Google searches were made for the restaurant over the past year, and it currently has 4.4 stars on Google Reviews.
3) Eiffel Tower - 7.36 out of 10
Those wanting to enjoy a dining experience with a view should head to the Eiffel Tower restaurant, which has a score of 7.36 out of 10. While enjoying a delicious meal, diners can marvel at the spectacular views of both the Las Vegas Strip and the Bellagio fountains, making it the perfect venue for a special occasion.
The restaurant offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist and is well-known for dishes such as Alaskan wild black cod en papillote, veal medallions, and Pekin duck breast. A three-course brunch menu is also available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for $59 per person. Choices on the menu include creamy French onion soup, lobster eggs benedict, and crème brulee.
The Eiffel Tower restaurant currently receives 4.6 stars on Google Reviews and was searched more than 136,400 times over the last year.
The Best Vegas Casinos For Gamblers To Enjoy
There are thought to be over 1004 casinos throughout the city of Las Vegas. While the main focus at the venues is, of course, gambling, many of them also offer amazing VIP experiences and services.
While the dress code is fairly relaxed during the day (feel free to wear your shorts and flip-flops), gambling often requires cocktail attire. However, it’s the perfect opportunity to dress to impress, as you may spot the odd celebrity or two!
While visiting casinos can be a fun and thrilling experience, it’s important to remember to gamble responsibly.
1) Casino at Caesars Palace - 8.72 out of 10
Topping the list is one of the city's most famous casinos — Caesars Palace. The venue, which scores 8.72 out of 10, is located inside the world-renowned hotel. The casino features 185 table games, including the classics like blackjack and roulette, and over 1,300 slot machines. The Sportsbook area is the place to be for any die-hard sports fans. It has been voted the best location for sports betting in the city for four consecutive years, mainly due to its custom-built 143-inch TV and 13 betting windows.
The venue was searched more than 2.2 million times over the past year and currently receives 4.5 stars on Google Reviews.
2) The Cosmopolitan Casino - 8.21 out of 10
In second place is the Cosmopolitan Casino, located inside the hotel of the same name, earning a score of 8.21 out of 10. The venue spans over 100,000 square feet and combines the latest technology with the classic casino games everyone has grown to know and love. Visitors can also enjoy a spectacular view of the Las Vegas Strip through the casino’s floor-to-ceiling windows, further adding to the venue’s sense of modern luxury.
The Cosmopolitan Casino has 4.6 stars on Google Reviews and was searched over 807,000 times throughout the last year.
3) Bellagio Hotel & Casino - 8.20 out of 10
Following closely behind is the world-famous Bellagio Hotel & Casino, earning a score of 8.20 out of 10. If you’re a fan of slot machines, then this is the casino for you, as the venue is home to over 2,300 reel, video reel, and video poker games, with jackpots reaching into the millions. Any qualified players wanting to visit the casino can request a personal host who can help with all of your needs, including casino credit lines and tournament entries.
More than 138,600 searches were made for the Bellagio Hotel & Casino over the past year, which currently receives an impressive 4.7 stars on Google Reviews.
The Most Expensive Vegas Hotels For A Luxury Stay
Las Vegas is home to some of the world's most luxurious and unique hotels. You won’t be short of choice either, as there are estimated to be over 300 hotels5 available. Many of the hotels are location-themed, from Venice and Egypt to Paris and New York. Or, if you fancy something even more unique, there are even fantasy and circus-themed hotels.
It’s no secret that many of the hotels in Vegas aren’t cheap, but if you’re willing to splash the cash, here’s a list of must-stay hotels.
1) Skylofts at MGM Grand - £1,438 / $1,827 / €1,701 per night
If you want a truly luxurious hotel stay, look no further than the Skylofts. Located on the top two floors of the MGM Grand Hotel, this accommodation offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and is rated 4.6 stars on Google Reviews. Guests can choose from one, two or three-bedroom lofts that accommodate up to nine people, making the Skylofts the perfect place for families and large groups. Visitors can enjoy a night of fun in the expansive casino or relax in one of the pools or lazy river.
However, this level of luxury does come with a price. A weekend stay at the Skylofts will currently set you back around £1,438 / $1,827 / €1,701 per night, on average. But if you’re celebrating a special occasion, this is a great place to stay.
2) The Venetian Las Vegas - £655 / $832 / €755 per night
The Venetian Las Vegas is another great hotel to add to your Vegas bucket list. Sharing a complex with its sister hotel and casino, The Palazzo, this Italian-themed casino resort is just three miles from Harry Reid International Airport. Suites range from approximately 650 to 1,850 square feet, providing a luxurious stay to all guests. This hotel also offers the famous gondola rides, allowing guests to feel as though they’re sailing through the canals of Venice.
If you fancy a stay in one of Vegas’ themed hotels, then The Venetian is a great choice, as it’s rated 4.7 stars on Google Reviews. On average, it will cost you around £655 / $832 / €755 per night for a weekend vacation.
3) Encore Hotel - £408 / $518 / €482 per night
With rooms spanning 745 square feet, the Encore Hotel at Wynn Resort offers a spacious and luxurious stay. Enjoy a soak in an oversized marble bathtub before wrapping yourself in a complimentary terrycloth bathrobe. In-room tablets enable guests to control everything from lighting to drapes and temperature, as well as make dinner reservations and order room service. You can also take in the amazing views of downtown Vegas, the Strip, and the hotel’s pool.
A weekend stay at the Encore Hotel costs around £408 / $518 / €482, on average, making it a great option for those wanting to experience luxury at a slightly more affordable price
The Most Thrilling Vegas Experiences For Adrenaline Junkies
Living up to its name as the ‘entertainment capital of the world’, Las Vegas is full of thrilling experiences for all the adrenaline junkies out there. While many people may think that Vegas is all about gambling and casinos, the city has so much more to offer.
So, if you’re looking for a unique experience to get your adrenaline pumping while you visit Las Vegas, here are some activities to add to your bucket list.
1) Shooting range - 333,400 Google searches
If you really want to get your pulse racing while visiting Vegas, then head to one of the many shooting ranges found in the city. Studies show that visiting a shooting range can release endorphins, making this the perfect experience to help relieve any vacation stress and anxiety. There are plenty of venues to choose from, including Bullets and Burgers, Battlefield Vegas and The Range 702. Over the past year, more than 333,400 searches were made for the phrase “shooting range Las Vegas”
2) Escape room and helicopter tour - 272,900 Google searches
If you fancy something a bit more tame but still want a fun experience, then try one of the city’s escape rooms. Over 272,900 Google searches were conducted for the term “escape room Las Vegas” over the last year. They’re a great way to get your brains working while you work as a team to solve various puzzles to be freed from the room. Some of the escape rooms located in the city include Escapology, Trapped! and PanIQ Escape Room.
There were also over 272,900 searches made for the phrase “helicopter tour Las Vegas” last year. Helicopter tours are a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of all the wonderful sights the city has to offer, such as the Bellagio fountains, the Stratosphere Tower and the many casinos. If you fancy a more rural view, you can embark on one of the many helicopter tours of the beautiful Grand Canyon.
3) Helicopter tour - 272,900 Google searches
There were also over 272,900 searches made for the phrase “helicopter tour Las Vegas” last year. Helicopter tours are a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of all the wonderful sights the city has to offer, such as the Bellagio fountains, the Stratosphere Tower and the many casinos. If you fancy a more rural view, you can embark on one of the many helicopter tours of the beautiful Grand Canyon.
You truly know you’ve made it as a successful music artist if you’re offered a residency in Las Vegas. Countless artists from a range of different genres — from country and R&B to pop and hip-hop — have taken to the stage in various venues across the city to perform their biggest hits.
Attending your favourite artist's residency is the perfect excuse to visit Las Vegas. But which Vegas residencies are the highest-grossing of all time?
1) Celine Dion (‘A New Day…’) - $565.7 million gross
Topping the list is the Canadian ‘Queen of Power Ballads’ herself, Celine Dion. Between 2003 and 2007, Celine embarked on her ‘A New Day..’ residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency consisted of over 700 shows, where Celine sang some of her biggest hits, including ‘My Heart Will Go On’, which was written for the film Titanic. In total, the residency generated over $565.7 million.
2) Celine Dion (‘Celine’) - $352.7 million gross
Showing just how popular she is, Celine Dion also takes second place. Her ‘Celine’ residency, also at the Colosseum, spanned eight years from 2011 to 2019, generating over $352.7 million. Celine performed almost 430 shows throughout this residency, performing her fan's favourite songs, such as ‘I’m Alive’, ‘It’s All Coming Back to Me Now’ and ‘All By Myself’.
3) U2 (U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere’) - $244.5 million gross
With a career spanning almost five decades, it’s no surprise that the Irish rock band U2 take third place. Running from September 2023 to March 2024, the band’s 40 performances at the new Sphere venue generated over $244.5 million. The show included some of U2’s biggest hits, including ‘With or Without You’, ‘Beautiful Day’ and ‘I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For’.
Methodology:
We began by creating a separate seed list for each of the following categories: wedding chapels, dining experiences, casinos and extreme experiences.
- For wedding chapels, we used Tripadvisor.
- For dining experiences, we used sources such as Lip Smacking Foodie Tours, Vegas.com and Tao Group.
- For casinos, we used Tripadvisor.
- For extreme experiences, we used Viator.
We used Google to collect the number of reviews and star ratings out of 5 for each wedding chapel, dining experience and casino.
We used Google Keyword Planner to collect the number of searches made for each wedding chapel, dining experience, casino and extreme experience between June 2023 and May 2024.
We gave each wedding chapel, dining experience and casino a normalised score out of ten for each factor and then took an average across all factors to form an overall score. No overall score was created for extreme experiences.
Next, we used sources such as Wikipedia and Billboard to create a seed list of the highest-grossing Las Vegas residencies to date. Some residencies are still ongoing, and data may change.
We then used sources such as The Travel and The Telegraph to create a seed list of some of the most well-known and expensive hotels in Las Vegas. We used Kayak to discover the average price per night for each hotel on a Friday or Saturday. Data is based on the previous two weeks and is correct as of 19 June 2024. We also collected each hotel’s star rating out of 5 from Google Reviews.
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