Las Vegas

Pretty much everyone has heard of the Grand Canyon, and the stunning landscape with its impressive size should not be missed if you are anywhere close by. The national park consists of 277 miles (446 km) of the Colorado River and the erosion's effects on the surrounding landscape. The Grand Canyon itself is 18 miles (29 km) wide, and a mile (1,6 km) deep. It is possible to hike 9 miles (14,5 km) down the Bright Angel Trail to the very bottom, and this quite tough walk is most certainly worth it!

Do you know what happened with the familiar phrase 'what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas'? Follow the real life stories of criminal characters that are only familiar to you from TV dramas, as you walk through this one-of-a-kind Mob Museum, as you can here discover the story from the birth of the Mob to the activities of them today. The museum features real stories of both sides, from the Mob and the justice system, so that you will learn about how Las Vegas came to be, and about the hidden stories that have unfolded in its busy streets.

The High Roller is the largest and tallest observation wheel in the world, as its 167m (550ft) beat both the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer when it comes to height. For one of the best views combined with a fun experience, take a half hour ride and discover the city from a whole new angle, with 360-degree views and stares in awe. While an informative video will explain interesting and surprising facts about Las Vegas, the sunset can here be enjoyed best.

This sight at Stratosphere Hotel is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States, and – with one of the best panorama view of the strip – a perfect spot for having a drink. The tower will give you a glimpse of the shimmering Las Vegas Strip and the grand casino's, and if you are feeling adventurous and brave, then do take the 829-feet Sky-jump, or the free fall drop tower. Be aware, however, that this activity is only meant for daredevils!

Over 30 Shelby vehicles tell the story of founder Carroll Shelby and the company that was started in 1962. Drop by at this museum if you are a car enthusiast. Admission is free.

There is no doubt about gambling being Las Vegas' main attraction, and there is a level for every visitor: experienced and first-timer, as most casinos offer free lessons that usually take place in the morning hours on table games such as Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. The new penny slots are probably the most popular among the recreational gambler as to the bonus games within the games themselves. While the jackpots are, of course, not nearly as large as dollar slots, these games are fun and entertaining anyways, and you can still win some money.

Hoover Dam is a national historic landmark and the highest concrete dam in the Western Hemisphere, as it is more than 725 feet (220 m) above the Colorado River. Once known as Boulder Dam, this concrete arch-gravity dam on the border between Arizona and Nevada has 17 generators that produce 4 billion kilowatts of electricity a year, which makes it one of the country’s largest hydroelectric power facilities. Named after President Herbert Hoover, and dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt, the Hoover Dam is visited by nearly one million people each year.

The Bellagio Fountains at the quarter-mile lake in front of the Hotel Bellagio display a choreographed dance of water and light set to 29 different opera, country, or pop musical selections, are presented. Each show is different, lasting 5 to 10 minutes with water blasting hundreds of feet into the sky, and the best time to see this is at night, standing on the street side of the lake. Crowds will start to gather about five minutes before each show so head here a little early to get an unobstructed view.

The Fremont Street Experience is a highly successful attempt to draw the millions of visitors back to the downtown area. The domed-canopy 90 feet (27,5 meters) above the street was constructed along five city blocks, lined with some of the oldest casinos in Las Vegas. Every evening from sundown to midnight, the canopy becomes a giant screen showing high resolution images accompanied by concert-quality sound. At the top of each hour, visitors pour into the streets, looking skyward in anticipation of one of the six different shows lasting six to nine minutes.

The tranquil waterfalls in front of the Mirage are transformed into an erupting volcano, beginning with thunderous explosions, and followed with bright orange flames leaping into the night sky, and molten lava streaming through the three-acre lagoon area. The heat can be felt by onlookers standing across the wide Las Vegas Boulevard so it is almost impossible to ignore one of the most majestic and, on top, free experiences of Las Vegas!

Red Rock Canyon State Park offers scenic desert cliffs that reach up to 3,000 feet (914 meters), spectacular rock formations, and abundant wildlife including hawks, squirrels, and lizards. Recreational activities here are camping, sightseeing, hiking, cycling and whatever you can think of, and even if you are not a fan of the outdoors, you should definitely pay a visit here.