Beyond Casinos in Las Vegas.

Everyone knows Las Vegas. Plunked in the southwestern United States, it has been called the capital of gambling and just about every other sin. But what if gambling doesn’t fit in with your vacation plans? Why visit this glittering city in the desert?

For many non-casino-going travelers, the Las Vegas’ airport, McCarran International Airport (LAS), serves as a jumping-off point for many of the region’s natural wonders. While the south rim of the Grand Canyon is about 280 miles away – 280 miles of roads, that is; 180 miles by air travel – many tours operate out of Las Vegas. These include helicopter, bus, and plane tours. Alternately, you could tackle the 6-hour drive yourself. Admittance is $25(US) per vehicle or $12 (US)per pedestrian or cyclist. As the commercial goes, the cost is twenty-five dollars; the experience is priceless. Closer to the city is the legendary Death Valley National Park (2 hours by car, $20 per car, $11 per person) and beautiful Zion National Park (2.5 hours; same prices).
If the great indoors are more your family’s style, there are plenty of options in the city itself. Inside MGM Grand, for example, fans of the crime show CSI can put their own sleuthing skills to the test. Kids will enjoy Adventuredome, a theme park that is completely indoors. There are almost countless museums, stage shows, musical performances, and shopping opportunities in and around Las Vegas – not to mention plenty of golf courses.

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As it is located in the desert, Las Vegas stays dry and hot. Temperatures range from 14 to 40 degrees, and rainfall is scarce. This makes it a very popular wintertime retreat from a wintry climate.
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