Getaways

Las Vegas just keeps getting bigger and glitzier and, after a misguided attempt to market to families, has come back to what it does best: provide an outsized and singular entertainment experience for grownups. The best tip we can give you? Make sure that what you win in Vegas doesn’t stay there—quit while you’re ahead!

SEE: It’s free to hang out and watch the Bellagio’s magical fountains, but do spend some money to see some shows: Hot tickets now include O and Ka, both Cirque du Soleil performances, as well as Love, which features dance and acrobatics set to Beatles’ tunes. (www.vegas.com)

STAY: Start the New Year right by checking into one of Vegas’ legendary hotels—the Bellagio or Wynn Las Vegas. Both have world-class restaurants, great service, nightclubs and luxe rooms. Both also have, ahem, casinos.

DINE: The days of the all-you-can-eat buffet are gone, replaced by some of the finest restaurants in the United States. Splurge memorably and formally at Joël Robuchon’s The Mansion at the MGM Grand (his more casual L’Atelier next door features foie gras sliders), revel in the wow décor—and Alain Ducasse’s short-ribs and lobster—at Mix in the Mandalay Bay, and swoon over Alessandro Stratta’s fab French fare at Alex at Wynn Las Vegas.

SHOP: If the tables don’t get your money, the plethora of upscale malls will. Fashion Show has seven flagship department stores. Unique gifts, however, can be found at Las Vegas Paper Doll stationery boutique in the historic Holsum Lofts building and at the Red Rooster Antique Mall.

INSIDERS’ TIP: For a little bit of what made Vegas Vegas, enjoy glitz of days past at the Liberace Museum, and visit Vegas’ retired sign icons at The Neon Museum.