Updated: December 2019
Vegas is the ultimate girls’ destination any time of year. Growing up in Southern California, I’ve been there more times than I can count. Whether you visit in the summer, or over New Year’s Eve like I recently did, there’s so much to see and do in the vibrant city.
Here’s the ultimate girlfriend getaway guide to Las Vegas!
Where to Stay
Las Vegas has a massive array of hotels. I love The Venetian and The Palazzo because every room is a suite and can easily sleep four girls. As a major perk, these stunning hotels are reasonably priced so it’s a good excuse to treat yourself.
The Cosmopolitan has gorgeous rooms with options of up to three-bedroom suites. Winner of the most Forbes five-star awards in the world, the Encore at Wynn is another top luxe pick.
The Delano and Vdara are great options too. They don’t have gaming or smoking and are all-suite. They’re also part of a larger complex, so it’s easy to get around and find 24/7 entertainment!
Read More: Staying at the Aria on the Las Vegas Strip
Blowouts at Drybar at Miracle Mile
This is the prime spot to get gorgeous. With a full bar, a DJ, and a photo booth, the Drybar at Miracle Mile is a blast. The stylists are incredibly skilled and will have you feeling ready for a night out on the town.
I love their saying in the salon, “Blowout. Drink. Repeat!”
Dining Experiences
Yardbird: Hello, comfort food. This place has the low-key gourmet southern fare of your dreams. Show up in jeans and a T-shirt or a formal dress, and indulge in bourbon cocktails, insanely delicious biscuits, cauliflower, and the best-deviled eggs I’ve ever had. Pictured above!
Beauty & Essex: This restaurant is a gem and was a highlight of my girls’ trip. The atmosphere and vintage decor will make you feel like the glamorous babes you are, and the food and drinks are top notch. Make note, it is only open for dinner!
Giada at the Cromwell: I adore the super-girly and chic vibe of this Italian eatery run by celeb chef Giada De Laurentiis.
Lago at Bellagio: We got the best seat in the house here for the fountain show, which was an amazing experience. The small tapas-style plates are perfect to share, so you can try a bit of everything.
Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay: We loved the upscale pub grub here. They’ve got fun small plate options so you can share with your girls and try all of the unique foodie creations.
Chikyū Vegan Sushi Bar: This plant-based Japanese restaurant looks INCREDIBLE. They’ve got a range of bites from ramen to sushi to craft cocktails.
More Luxury Options:
Mr. Chow: Treat yourself to Mr. Chow at Caesars Palace. This place is the ultimate in luxury and has a champagne cart to boot!
The Twist at Mandarin Oriental: The Twist at Mandarin Oriental is another one of my faves. With great views of the Strip, this French luxury hot spot is a must-try.
Pedal to the Metal at SPEEDVegas
Admittedly, I was scared to even try this, but SPEEDVegas is truly one of the most thrilling things you can do in Vegas. Race around the track in a Ferrari or Lamborghini to try to beat your bestie’s speed.
I hit 147 MPH!
Take a Helicopter Tour
While it’s definitely pricey, it’s well worth it. There are so many breathtaking sights to see all over the region. Get an unparalleled view of the Las Vegas Strip at night, or go for a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon.
Sundance Helicopters and Maverick Helicopters both have an impressive selection of tours!
Downtown Las Vegas
In recent years, however, the Downtown area has experienced a revival through art and projects like the Life is Beautiful Festival! There is so much you can see just walking around here. Check out the Mob Museum and stroll the streets to stumble upon some up-and-coming local artists.
In addition, the Las Vegas Art District, also known as 18b, has a cool restaurant and bar scene.
If you’re lucky enough to be there during the beginning of the month, the “First Friday” event is a must-see. 10,000 culture vultures flock to the area for live music, top art, and local food.
Seven Magic Mountains
As if the natural beauty of Nevada wasn’t already incredible enough, there is also a striking art installation called the Seven Magic Mountains that you’ve got to check out.
Comprised of seven stacks of colorful boulders, that stand over thirty feet high, this installation sits just outside of Las Vegas in the Ivanpah Valley. The exhibition opened May 11, 2016, and will be on view for two years– so don’t miss it!
See a Show!
One of the best shoes I’ve seen in Vegas and one I’d recommend for any girls’ trip is Absinthe at Caesars Palace. The experience is a hilarious combination of cabaret and acrobatics that make up a provocative variety show!
Absinthe entertains to no end, so make sure to grab your tickets ahead of time!
Neon Museum
Explore the history of this crazy city at the “Boneyard” of vintage Vegas signs. From quirky to iconic neon signs, there is so much to take in here– signs from old casinos and other businesses displayed outdoors on over 6 acres!
Happy Half Hour at the High Roller
As the world’s tallest observation wheel, the 550-foot-tall High Roller is an unforgettable experience. The Happy Half Hour ticket gives you a thirty-minute ride with an open bar. Go for the sunset trip and be sure to bring your camera.
You’ll definitely have the best view of the Strip!
Cocktail Experience
The Chandelier Bar in The Cosmopolitan is one of my top spots for a drink. It has a unique selection of cocktails that vary on each floor, and the place has endless photo ops.
For 180-degree views of the city, get to Skyfall Lounge at Delano Las Vegas, and then hang out with the cool crowd at The Dorsey for some yummy cocktails.
When you are in the arts district, you can mingle with the locals at the Velveteen Rabbit.
Live It Up
You don’t have to wait until nighttime to party in Vegas. During the “summer” months, March-September, in Vegas you’ll find tons of beach clubs and day parties that offer tons of fun with your girls poolside!
My Favorite Day Parties:
Encore Beach Club is the prime spot for an awesome pool party on the Strip. Spend the day lounging and drinking around the pool with your girls!
Daylight Beach Club at Mandalay Bay is a bit smaller than other beach clubs but has epic stages and great cabanas available for reservation.
My Favorite Nightclubs:
Marquee in The Cosmopolitan is always hopping and has my favorite atmosphere.
XS is super chic and has a top lineup of DJs at Wynn Encore– I love it because it is half indoor, and half outdoors so you never have that claustrophobic feeling.
Omnia hosts one of the hottest nightclubs, with an incredible LED chandelier.
Do you have any travel tips for visiting Las Vegas? Let me know down below!
I’m going to Vegas soon so this post has been super helpful. I can’t wait to explore this mad, crazy place!
Hi Kiki. Thank you for sharing all the different things to do in Las Vegas. The Happy Half Hour ride sounds like so much fun and a great way to just take in all the beauty that this city has to offer. I’m sure it’s a beautiful view and can’t wait to see it for myself with my friends!