TOPIC OF THE WEEK: "What Do You Never Miss?"

[Steve]

This week's Topic Of The Week question is:

Is there something you have done every time you've been in Las Vegas? This could be visiting or staying at a particular hotel, dining at a certain restaurant or playing at a particular casino, but someting you have never missed doing in any trip.

[tryon4]

We always see a Fountain show at Bellagio and we always have our last meal at Sir Galahd's in Excalibur.

[gayle]

We always see the Dolphin Habitat at Mirage. We also always go see the Freemont Street experience, and also have a cocktail at Fontana Bar.

[harrop5783]

My first visit was last December, but based on that trip I know a few things I won't miss this December:

Bellagio buffet
Staying at Bally's (although the long-term prospects for this are limited)
The Money Storm video slots

[kwill]

A dinner buffet at Bellagio.

[YSinAppleton]

Great question!!!! We always see at least one Bellagio fountain show (usually a few), and we always have one meal for sure at the Grand Lux in the Venetian. Another thing we don't miss is a visit downtown and a Fremont Experience light show (cheesy I know, but we love it). We visit twice a year and one of those visits we always stay at the Monte Carlo. The other we experiment, trying to stay at all of the nice strip hotels.

[Silversmiff]

At least one night...errr early morn....during every trip I find myself eating a hotdog from Slots-o-Fun. Usually at 3or4 am and you can bet I am 3 sheets to the wind....some of you may have seen me, I was the one sitting on the bench out front by the giant slot machine sporting the super cool mustardstache.

[Firemanmoe]

Trip downtown, and playing three-card poker at the Flamingo

[mfinn]

We never miss Ellis Island. The $4.95 steak special, house ale, homemade rootbeer, B-B-Q restaurant and Metro Pizza. We love it!

[janel]

I usually never miss going downtown for an evening of gambling.
I usually never miss going to Denny's, yes Denny's. I usually stay at the Flamingo, but have stayed at other hotels also.
I'm actually leaving early in the morning tomorrow (6/21) for my (approximate 24th time). Gotta love Las Vegas.

[CHAPPY1]

been going to vegas over thirty years, never have missed getting the shrimp cocktails at golden gate (downtown), along with a pastami sandwich;30 yrs ago they were 50cents, now they are a dollar, but still a helluva buy after 30 years!!!!

[ronnie2000]

We always have one lunch at Top of the World (Stratosphere), see Viva Las Vegas (same ole stuff almost every time but still fun), watch a few water shows at Bellagio, go to Rio and see the Masquerade in the Sky show, visit Fremont Street to see the show and watch the fantastic spray paint folks do a few pictures and take in one dinner at the fabulous (and hopefully staying that way) Aladdin buffet. There are many things we do on most trips, but these are on our "must do" lists since many are things we did on our first anniversary trip to Vegas. Ron in NC:rolleyes:

[Pickles]

We always stay at the Plaza. We've been staying there for over 10 years - so many times it's almost like a home away from home! If you've ever stayed there, I think you either love it or hate it.

As soon as we arrive, we visit our favorite bartender and get a stiff drink (the vacation absolutely cannot begin until we complete this one task). Also, we never miss the free lounge show (cheesy but always a hoot).

We also never miss the champagne brunch at Main Street Station.

EDIT - oh yeah I almost forgot - always at least one "romantic encounter" with the hubby (nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more!)

[thegreek]

Stay at the GN---Gold Coast hot dog---Ron Lenn Clowns (collectors)----last but not least have a Binion Burger.

[thegreek]

Sorry that was visit and buy a clown at Ron Lee's

[diana-al]

doing a side trip destination-instead of booking 3 nights we have been only
going for the 4 night packages-of course you need to rent a car which is
fairly reasonable if you go to www.sidestep.com-last visit we went to area
51 (rachel) where all the space aliens are-we have seen the ghost town in
beatty-red rock canyon-mt. charlston-laughlin-hoover dam-outside of the
bunny ranch-valley of fire-prime outlets in primm-death valley------there are
so many wonderful places to go & see while in vegas-we love driving thru the
desert & seeing all the beautiful mountains-usually its always sunny & every
destination is close by so we still can still enjoy our evening in vegas-

[parisbill]

One day at Sam's Town and if I possible... FATBURGERS and than mucho guilt. Also Bellagio in the evenings for cocktails at Petrosian for simple R & R

[CindyR]

We never miss lunch at Mon Ami at the Paris. We always eat outside and watch the fountains over a leisurly lunch, and never skip dessert.

[JerriAnn]

I always walk up the stair steps at Treasure Island
to the garage. Just to prove to myself I can do it and
show my husband I can without losing my breathe!
Some years it is not easy.

I also collect coke bottles from the coke cola store each year.

[talanhart]

Walk and walk and walk. I do it every trip. I don' know what it is, but I am always walking somewhere.

[redstar]

Since it's begiining we always do Happy Hour at Harrah's Carnival Court the first day. The second day we take it easy because of the hangover we got at Carnival Court the day before...lol

[MoMyng]

The first thing we do is get situated in our Hotel room - No matter which one we stay in, then head to "MargaritaVille" for a Drink and their BIG Nacho Platter. We seem also to visit Most of the Hotels on the Strip just to see if anything has changed in that short time we had been away. Also -- we eat Breakfast EVERY morning at Barbary Coast. Just love that little place!
Oh - I can't wait to go back which is in Sept.

[KK2]

After the sun goes down...hit the corner store near Harrah's Carnival court for a few cans of cold frosty beverage and enjoy the on/off stage entertainment in the court. Good people watching spot.

[bevierose]

I enjoyed reading some of your "every time" favorites. We always go to see Clint Holmes at Harrahs. He is such a spectacular performer and so uplifting that we always get tickets ahead of time to see him. We are old Clint groupies.
Also, I think a stop at the Paris buffet is something we haven't missed since it has opened.
And, finally, always stopping by the Bellagio fountain show which can be breathtaking and such fun en route from one casino to another.;)

[Sweetshel]

Since I always stay for two weeks, I have lots of "never misses". Here are just some of them in no particular order:

I never miss eating at Wolfgang Pucks in the MGM.

I never miss going to see the Checkmates (wherever they may be performing).

I never miss playing at Sam's Town and Boulder Station -- two of the most fun places to play.

I never miss going to the Grand Lux in the Venetian Hotel and listening to the great acts in the casino lounge.

[boogie]

We always make a stop downtown @ Mermaid's (the loosest cocktail comp in Vegas). The "Big Dog" (3/4 pound with chili around 2 Bucks) now that it is back @ Slots-a-Fun. :)

[yankeeblue]

some things that are a must do for us:
1. We love to take the night time drive down the strip to enjoy all the lights and the feeling of Vegas-baby!
2. Bellagio fountains are a must see!!
3. Our favorite dinner at Ellis Island, the $4.95 steak dinner with a home brew and root beer.
4. Last minute trip to the giant souvinier shop for crap purchases. :eek:
5. A trip to Vons for snacks in the room! (we even own a Vons card now!)

[jo45an]

We always have one meal at the Pharoh's Feast Buffet in the
Luxor. It's not as noisy as most other buffets, and the layout
allows for more privacy at the tables. The food is just fine, and the surrounding Casinos are easily reached by the walkways above the Strip, so you can avoid all the traffic below. Also, their Chocolate Cups are soooooo good!:D

Joan in PA.

[Steve]

We never miss the Sterling Brunch at Bally's. :D It's my favorite thing to so on Sunday.......well maybe my second favorite thing :)

Steve

[drdirt]

Whenever we are there on a Sunday, we never, never miss the Sunday Brunch at Bally's.

[Neonnh]

One thing I never miss is losing money :D actually, I have won too! I never miss a shrimp cocktail at the Golden Gate downtown Las Vegas and seeing the lovely older woman playing piano (she isn't always there) but there is sure to be someone good playing that piano! Counting down 'til August!

[James]

some things that are a must do for us:
1. We love to take the night time drive down the strip to enjoy all the lights and the feeling of Vegas-baby!
2. Bellagio fountains are a must see!!
3. Our favorite dinner at Ellis Island, the $4.95 steak dinner with a home brew and root beer.
4. Last minute trip to the giant souvinier shop for crap purchases. :eek:
5. A trip to Vons for snacks in the room! (we even own a Vons card now!)

i agree with ellis island, no trip is complete without a cheap steak and beer.

as for vons, they are owned by safeway, so if you have a safeway card, you should be able to use it.

[GREGRIO]

I always remember to get the RIO to print
my SOUTHWEST "A" BOARDING PASS for
my return trip HOME!

[dhhenry4]

We always plan our stays so we arrive in time on Sunday for the all you can drink Margarita brunch at the Palms.
We also have to visit Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville at least once.

[Nevada]

We allways visit the Forom shops at Ceasers, at least one trip over to the Rio love to eat those lobster tails at the seafood buffet. We allways check out the ladies at the carnival for the five dollar off coupons for the buffet at Harrahs.After a good breakfast head down to the Venetian for a stroll around the canal. In the afternoon we take in the Paris buffet and then just walk up and down the strip before settling in for a night of gambling.

[ddonnaf]

The things I always do in Las Vegas, hmmm
1. Ellis Island for steak and beer, numerous times
2. Golden Gate Crab Cocktail(I'm allergic to shrimp)
3. At least one trip up to The Cannery, love that place!
4. Slots of Fun for cheap blackjack

Can't wait to go in November, will turn 40 (ugh!) there, what could be better!!!

[McFlyer54]

Always split trip between two hotels (one we've been to before and one that's new for us), In-N-Out Burger, Imperial Palace Auto Collection, buy some Ethel M candy, Blueberry Hill for pancakes, Main Street Station Buffet, Comedy Stop at the Trop! and usually one or two more comedy clubs, always go to whatever hotel/casino(s) opened since the last visit .... and heck, I never miss losing a little money cause it's always a great vacation !!!

[murrayk]

Paris buffet for breakfast; Garduno's Margarita Brunch on Sunday; Bellagio water show; gambling at Fitzgerald's downtown on Tuesday night when the DJ is in the casino; Purple Reign (Prince tribute) show - EXCELLENT!!; Happy Hour at the Tequila Bar at Bally's (great guitar player - Eagles, Jimmy Buffet, old time sing-along rock-n-roll); Masquarade Parade in the Sky show at the Rio; ... the list goes on and on and on!!! I can't get enough of the food and entertainment that Vegas has to offer!!

[dog1dog2]

Sadly, I will no longer be able to engage in my number one, highly disturbing, annual Vegas tradition: eating an entire Mega-Dog from the Westward-Ho:( My other tradition is to eat at Bautista's Hole in the Wall Italian Restaurant.

[Sherry]

;) Always see the fountain a Bellagio's. We were there when they first installed the fountain and was playing "Time to say goodbye" by Sarah Brightman and Andre Bochelli to rehearse. Brings back memories. Always eat at Ellis Island once or twice and hit several casinos on the strip.

[GCinKC]

I always, always, always have lunch one day at California Pizza Kitchen at The Mirage. Love having a long, leisurely lunch where I read some from a good book, stuff myself with a Caesar salad and a whole pizza, and enjoy the people-watching from a prime spot near the main entrance and overlooking the casino. And I always have to get Ethel M's to bring home and ration as long as I can. Going one week from tomorrow and can't wait to get there.

[kennyboy69]

for my last 60 trips to vegas, i have managed to spend a few days each visit at the stardust. i will miss it.

[BOBNDEE]

At least one night...errr early morn....during every trip I find myself eating a hotdog from Slots-o-Fun. Usually at 3or4 am and you can bet I am 3 sheets to the wind....some of you may have seen me, I was the one sitting on the bench out front by the giant slot machine sporting the super cool mustardstache.
I have to take time to answer this one. It is so funny--you sound like me.
Great times and good fun.
bobndee

[BOBNDEE]

We always stay at the Plaza. We've been staying there for over 10 years - so many times it's almost like a home away from home! If you've ever stayed there, I think you either love it or hate it.

As soon as we arrive, we visit our favorite bartender and get a stiff drink (the vacation absolutely cannot begin until we complete this one task). Also, we never miss the free lounge show (cheesy but always a hoot).

We also never miss the champagne brunch at Main Street Station.

EDIT - oh yeah I almost forgot - always at least one "romantic encounter" with the hubby (nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more!)
nudge nudge back at ya!
bobndee

[hhalligan]

The fountains at the Bellagio, Breakfast buffet at Paris and a visit to one or two of the better steak houses. Another thing I do is always gamble to much.

[spacetek]

I never fail to pencil in the "Comedystop" at the tropicana, and never fail to eat at Delmonico's at the "V", I manage a nice lunch at the Oyster bar at the palace station, I come to vegas maybe too often as I get these great comps most every week for the last 6 years. Its a shame the great shows have disappeared such as EFX and Starlight Express......but vegas is still vegas and my play ground.... nice to visit your site again steve luck to you !!!!

[VivaLasVegas]

First thing is immediately getting on the Vegas clock. Usually travel early AM to get to Vegas, gain the 3 hours and stay up until 4 AM the next day.

Always have time for the Bellagio fountains; at least once nightly.

Mon Ami Gabi's is a definite dinner meal at least once during the stay.

[henshep1]

We rent a car from Dollar so we can do a road trip. Hoover dam, Laughlin, Willow beach, Mt. Charlston, etc. or where ever we feel like going. Last few trips we have had to stop for a meal at the Peppermill and we have to have a Fatburger (he gets fat fries I get skinny fries). We stay at a place we've never stayed at before for the first couple of nights then to the GN for the rest of the trip. :rolleyes:

[ND Murff]

We never miss having the great Mexican food at Ricardos...(previously in the MGM) Always a trip downtown is included. Always stay at the Orleans.
And always............every trip.........have a GREAT time in Las Vegas.

[batteryman]

We will miss the Stardust (we've stayed there for years). we also never never never miss eating at the Grand Lux at the Venetian.

[baron45]

1. Almost always stay at Rio

2. Always eat at the Grand Lux Cafe at Venetian

[judyqu]

Every afternoon, if Diane is bartening, a cocktail at the Fontana Bar at the Bellagio. A stop at the Peppermill for breakfast and J J's Boulangerie at Paris for baquettes. The Bellagio Fountains and the Conservatory at Bellagio. Ethel M dark chocolate caramels. Lunch at Olives at Bellagio. Pool time (weather permitting). People watching, stops at all the hotels along the Strip as well as side trips to Green Vally Ranch, Red Rock Canyon, the Orleans and the Palms. Biggest Never Miss when in Vegas -- being back home.:)

[vegaspixie]

One thing I never miss is a champagne martini at the St Louis cafe at the Paris. They are SO addicting! We also never miss a show at either Bally's lounge, or the Golden Nugget lounge. They have the best bands. We always have a blast at either place. ;)

[cory]

Everytime I go to Las Vegas I must go to the Golden Gate and get the 99 cent Shrimp Cocktail.

Nothing better anywhere

[doubledogdare]

One new thing we do every trip is go to Wildfire and have their burger special. One of the best we have ever had and cheap with coupon. One reason we feel obligated to do this is because my wife won $500 free slot play when she signed up for their card. (We didn't plan on playing slots originally, but to get burger special you had to have player's card). Funny how things work out. We had 2 burger specials and left with $460 of their money. We also like to search out the bargains Vegas is offering at the time we are there. We will go out of our way to get a bargain. Like walk for 15 minutes to spin free wheel at Tropicana, get picture at IP, or go to Sahara for cheap buffet (with coupon of course). Go to Vegas in summer months for cheaper hotel rate. We were there when it was 124 degrees, and water at Flamingo pool was still cold. Always see lounge bands at night. Love live music. Always stay at Orleans for at least part of trip. Always go downtown at night for street entertainers. Orleans graveyard breakfast (late night or early morning). Rio Masquerade in the Sky. Bellagio fountains. Walk thru Caesar's and Venetian and Bellagio. Watch $100 BJ tables. And finally, plan my next trip on the flight home.

[katherinemm]

Go to the museums, Bellagio or at the Ventetian or both. Go to a fancy place for lunch. Been to Olives 2x's, Mon Ami Gabi, and last trip Commander's Place (25 cent martini's!).:D Do the fountains, lsee if I can win $$ on the slots but not much. WALK, WALK, WALK. Go see the penguins at the Flamingo.

[Tooley]

After unpacking at Flamingo, we always head down to the pastry shop at Paris. The vacation would not be complete without a trip to The District at Green Valley Ranch, a visit to the Palms, The Orleans, Mandalay Bay and the Venetian. We love strolling through the Forum Shops at Caesars, always stopping at West of Santa Fe to look for new pieces of southwestern jewelry. With the popularity of Poker at an all time high, we were able to check out all the new Poker Rooms that have recently opened during our visit in May; our new favorite being the Poker Room at Caesar's. The last evening is always spent having dinner at Wolfgang Puck's restaurant at the Venetian and taking in the fountain show at Bellagio. We always regret when it is "Time to Say Goodbye".

[dreamcatcheril]

I don't know why, I just have fun there.

A stop at IP for early morning Black Jack, or the Legends in concert show. I would even stop in to eat in the tea room on the second floor for the late night gamblers special after a show some place else.

[madrejulie]

so i'll let you know we ALWAYS go to the free auto show at the top of the imperial palace LOL

[Widge]

We always are sure to eat at the Las vegas Club Upper Deck Restaurant. Always a great dinner at a great price. Also the buffett at the Orleans.

We are also sure to visit the Bellagio gardens, and the Luxor ( we seem to always win there)

[Larry Robinson]

We never miss the fountains at the Bellagio and the Conservatory at
Bellagio. In recent years we always have Margarita brunch at Garduno's
at the Palms on Sunday. The thing that we have done the most on a
regular basis is have dinner the first night at the Calif. Pizza Kitchen at
the Mirage. And of course walk through the Forum Shops.

[Cllctbear]

We always take a limo from the airport to our hotel.

We always stay at least part, if not all of the trip in a jacuzzi suite.

We always have room service a few times for breakfast.

Since my nephew moved to Vegas a few years ago, at least once a trip we have dinner or lunch with him and his finance.

[DAVID795]

The wife and I go straight to the Golden Gate for the .99 shrimp cocktail

[sean]

I never miss getting over served at least one day that I am out there.:D

Sir Galahads - Best Prime Rib I have ever had:)

Losing my money at the slots:eek:


One thing I will unfortunately never miss are the Illegal's slaping the adds for the "escorts":mad:

[TommiR]

We always stop at the Carnival Bar located between harrah's and the IP. Great place to have adult beverages and people watch. Usually stop there more than once ;) Only missed stopping there when I took the whole family, not a place for kids.

[kalbi]

Three things are a must for us, number one, I LOVE THE LAS VEGAS SIGN, so we have to make our pilgramidge to see MY SIGN!!! For some dumb reason, that sign just gets me soooo excited about Vegas!! Number two we always stay at the Monte Carlo and the very first thing we do before we start to gamble is head to The Pub for a HighRoller Red beer!!And number 3 we have to see the white tigers at the Mirage and the lions at MGM.
Roxy

[wolfman1953]

Food: Ellis Island, Rio Buffet, Fat Burger, Main Street Station Buffet
Rio parade in the Sky, Bellagio Fountains, FSE

Rent a 4x4 :D and Side trip, we've been to Red Rock Conserevation Area, Valley of Fire, Keyhole Canyon, Eldorado Canyon - Techatticup Gold Mine & Nelson's Landing, Boulder, Hoover Dam, drove down to the bottom of the Gran Canyon, Zion National Park, Death Valley, Dante Falls, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon south Rim, Arches Natinal park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Parowan Gap, Dead Horse Point, Ryolite, Mohave Preserve, Mt. Charelston, Aviation Nation, Nuclear Test Site, Ash Meadows, Montezuma's Caslte, Sunste Crater, Tuzigut, Wukoki, Wuptaki, Escalante Staircase, Shafer Trail, Onion Creek, Bitter Springs Back Country Byway, Mitchel Caverns, to name a few.
http://www.dcwi.com/~des/LasVegas/

[sandlind]

always the golden gate for shrimp cocktail and beef sandwhich with melted cheese. always the gold coast for a hot dog with mustard and kraut.always the palms for panda express. i never miss bingo at the plaza, gold coast, suncoast, and gonna try the new south coast this aug. i never miss having the advantage of having a car when in vegas.

[Bosco]

Always have at least one late night breakfast at the Barbary Coast for the best toast in Vegas.

Always hit the El Cortez for some craps and video poker

Always have at least one Prime Rib special somewhere

Always stay up to see the sun come up at least once.

ALWAYS have a good time!

[joannek1]

2 musts for us -- go to a restaurant where we can play Keno
while we eat and always have a meal at the Pepper Mill.

Joannek

[vegasjules]

I always hit the MC Brew Pub for a bucket of steamed clams and the brew sampler.

I always take a solo stroll down the strip while my husband gets in a nap.

I always take a shot at Megabucks. We're both school teachers, and we usually go in July. I'm looking forward to the year that we can plan a trip midweek in September. C'mon Megabucks!!!

[tribeman45]

I stay at IP every year and play video poker at machine #2
at the sport bar . I had a royal on this machine twice, plus
it still pay off in quarters.

[Wilbur95]

I have been going to Vegas 2 to 4 times a year for the last 10 years and the following are now my regular stops on virtually every trip: (please note that drinking large quantitites of BEER while playing video poker is a common theme)

- I spend at least 2 nights at the Rio (Don't gamble there much)
- I visit the Gold Coast and enjoy their .75 hot dogs/cold beer while playing several hours of Video Poker
- I enjoy the $4.95 Steak Special at Ellis Island and typically have a few Amber Ale's at the bar while playing VP before dinner
- Spend one afternoon getting over-served in one of Harrah's diamond lounges
- Always see one of the free shows that Harrah's offers to Diamond members
- Always Visit Harrah's Carnival Court to have a few drinks and people watch
- Playing at the VP bar at the Flamingo and drinking several pints of Bass Ale
- Start talking about and planning my next trip to Vegas

[lattitudegirl]

Never miss an early morning breakfast at Harrahs - Best Ham & Cheese fritatta ever and the sourdough toast is to die for! Especially after being over served at one of the many bars at Harrahs and Flamingo. In fat this last rrip over Memorial Day weekend, the bartender told me I could not have anyh more. Thank god I was staying at Flamigo!;) :eek: :cool: :rolleyes:

[Marla Chi-to-Houston]

Never miss a meal at the Grand Lux, never miss a bus ride downtown to Fremont Street, never miss a visit to Harrah's buffet, and never miss a slot machine!

[jACKIT]

is Freemont Street !
Also we always rent a car and drive in the desert !
jackie

[beach3993]

Naturally GO TO THE RIO a lady has got party you know!! My favorite! Watch the Bellegio Fountains. Like everyone answer super and gives me some ideas thanks all.:o

[Podie1956]

I always rent a car so I can drive up and down the strip at night for my one evening downtown. I also like to take a drive out to the mountains and to my favorite places off the strip: Sam's Town, Sunset Station, Orleans, Rio, and the Palms.

[nchikk]

1. The first thing I have done every trip is after getting the rental car, going to the Hard Rock Hotel and walking around for a few minutes. I go in the entrance by the Hard Rock Store and make the circle, not missing the sundries shop, as my favourite piece of memorabilia is in there. On the way out I go into the Hard Rock Store and look around. I used to stay here, but over the years it has gotten too trendy and too full of "beautiful people" for me.

2. I have had the breakfast buffet at the Orleans at least once every trip out.

[TisSweetDestiny]

:) Can't miss a trip M & M World, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or Ethel M's.

[wblsue]

We always have the .99 shrimp cocktail at the Golden Gate (the best!) and will greatly miss the .99 margarita at the now gone Westward Ho. We also need to see the Bellagio fountain show several times while we're there.

[MissCyn]

Every time I'm in Vegas I have to eat at The Village Buffet at Paris for breakfast and the Carnival World Buffet for lunch/dinner, on different days of course!

The other thing I always do in Vegas is buy a souvenir shot glass from the hotel in which I stay to add to my collection back home. I'll get my eighth glass sometime between July 9-12th! I've collected 22 glasses over the last 8 or 9 years in all, but my Vegas glasses are the best! I can't wait to get there in July!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[LV Maniac]

Always, always go to the Chocolate Swan for an eclair. Best eclair-bar none. :)

[krisfarnsworth]

Well we always hit Ellis Island for the steak dinner at least 1 or 2 times. We always WENT to Golden Gate for a shrimp coctail. ( I have done this since I was 8 years old while visiting my dad from California) now at 38 We were told in April minors are no longer allowed in the snack bar to eat these historic items I cried when my children were not allowed to share the childhood memory with me. We always see the art gallery and conservetory at the Belliago and my to DAUGHTERS (age 11) NEVER miss the auto collection at the IP. and the Manhatten Transfer at NYNY for the girls.:p

[momviolett]

We always have at least one breakfast at Careful Kittys at the El Cortez,a cornbeef sandwich & shrimp cocktail at the Golden Gate,play blackjack at the Golden Gate & drive down the strip after dark.

[krisfarnsworth]

We have to go to the Stage Deli at Ceasers. No one makes a decent kosher sandwich or Matzo Ball soup in Utah and we're not even Jewish.:D

[michaelt]

My wife and I always gamble at the low limit (last visit it was $3) balckjack table at the Sahara with the Wheel of Madness. Never hit more than $25 with the wheel but as it is a $1 side bet who is to complain?

[pateboo]

Since my first trip there with my parents when I was in my twenties, I have always eaten at the Harrah's Buffet. And they always sat me by the big celery stalks. Now that they've revamped the buffet, those days are over. I'll still go there out of tradition, but it just won't be the same. Plus I always go to the Steakhouse at Camelot in Excalibur and Ghiradelli's by Harrah's to get their Cherry Bings.

[ASTIDIXIE]

:D I always get a DEEP FRIED TWINKEE up on Fremont Street

[CeeJayRocker]

I didn't think there was something I did EVERY trip until I read the earlier posts, and now I've come up with several . . . .

1. 99 cent shrimp cocktail at Golden Gate (I stayed downtown once and almost went into a shellfish-induced coma. I'm not sure I ate anything else that trip)

2. The Sunspots in the lounge at the Plaza after midnight (drink minimum inside the rail, free outside the rail)

3. Gambling at the Western after midnight (walk from the end of Fremont not recommended for the faint of heart.)

4. An afternoon of races and football at the Hilton (we always go the same time of the year)

5. Riding the 301 after midnight.

6. Two double cheeseburgers at the Mickey D's next to the Stardust after midnight

7. Walking from the Riviera to the Hilton after midnight (seeing a trend here?)

8. Walking by the Girls of Glitter Gulch after midnight thinking "I ought to go on in there, since there's no cover charge", and then remembering that the time I did go in, a sullen waitress plopped four warm beers in front of the two of us and said "$34" . . . .

9. Standing at the top of the stairs at the New York New York casino and just looking around.

10 People watching for an hour or so late at night in front of the Westward Ho with a $1 Heineken in my hand and a smile on my face - Man, I'm going to miss that one every year . . .

[CEWILLIAMS50049]

Well All Ways See Big Elvis At The Barbery Coast, He Is Great!

[cindyinnj]

Every time we come to LV, we never ever miss the following...

Bellagio fountains,
Bellagio conservatory,
Caesar's forum shops,
Dinner at Circo in Bellagio (best rack of lamb),
Gambling at Barbary Coast & O'Shea's,
Walking the strip at night & admiring the lights!

[Stephanie]

eating at shibuya in MGM
gambling at barbary coast
never eating at the same restuarant twice
m&m world so I have a treat for the kids back home--that is if my husband doesn't eat them before we get home.
forcing my husband to stay up later than he wants
getting to wear " vegas clothes"
watching the reaction of other people to my husband's " got MILF?" shirt

[wiley]

Steak dinner at Ellis Island, shrimp cocktail at Golden Gate, Bellagio fountain show a few times, gods and goddesses statue show at Caesar's, seeing a show every night, and buying a new tee shirt for me and for our grandchildren...T-4 months and a day!

[kpoole10]

Never miss the Bellagio Fountains-My wife's favorite.
Lazy River at MGM., Super Buffet at Main Street Station. Looking forward to new things like the Harrah's deal. Will be in Vegas over the 4th. HAPPY 4TH TO ALL! Ken

[Aub]

I always have breakfast at least once at the Cafe St. Louis in Paris.
And the Coke store is always added in my spending budget.

[stevez49]

Always see the Legends in Concert at the IP
Elvis is worth the trip.

[auntvonna]

At least one night...errr early morn....during every trip I find myself eating a hotdog from Slots-o-Fun. Usually at 3or4 am and you can bet I am 3 sheets to the wind....some of you may have seen me, I was the one sitting on the bench out front by the giant slot machine sporting the super cool mustardstache.


LOL, I saw you out there last time I was in town!





The only thing that we Always do is spend a few hours gambling at Casino Royale (craps).

[jerry miller]

This week's Topic Of The Week question is:

Is there something you have done every time you've been in Las Vegas? This could be visiting or staying at a particular hotel, dining at a certain restaurant or playing at a particular casino, but someting you have never missed doing in any trip.


Yes! A visit to "The Tillermans"
Best place in Vegas to eat

[leighw55]

My husband and I always hit downtown for at least one night and we always start at The Mermaids and play the Elvis machines. They keep the free drinks very freely flowing and we have a blast! Then we head back outside to dance in the street and wander in and out of other casinos. My hubby always plays the flaming 7 dollar machines in the Golden Nugget, and all but once has hit a big enough pot to pay for our trip. We love downtown and try to stay down there, but once in a while end up on the strip, so we take a taxi downtown at some point during the trip.

[veepee]

We usually always stay at the Orleans.
Try to go horseback riding at Bonnie Springs.
Fremont Street.
Of course the fountains.
Watch a movie at the theater.
And believe it or not - Walmart.

[luvmesumvegas]

Never miss playing at Paris, steak and lobster at the Island cafe (stardust) and a visit to both the Coca-Cola and M&M stores.

[lvandm]

After the 1st trip I studied Vegas and to dos.

Now every trip is complete only if we get at least one $.99 SHRIMP COCKTAIL at the GOLDEN GATE.
This may still be the best bargain in Vegas. And I don't care who is at the piano we always sit and listen, applaud the performance and leave a nice tip.

The other must is the 4 Queens free pulls at each end of the casino. And I always stop at both.
Don't know why but I make a lot of fun out of talking to the operator and showing great surprise everytime I don't win. It's become my own little cult thing to do.

It doesn't have to be over the top to be fun.

Waiting for my next trip.

[Frank from PA]

We always have an al fresco lunch at Mon Ami Gabi. For food, wine, service, people watching and a great seat for the fountain show at Bellagio, you can't beat it!:D

[AGEMINI]

Gotta visit Golden Gate Downtown for the $0.99 shrimp cocktail!
Can't wait!

[Terri]

One thing I always do - check out the Bellagio Conservatory and go have a drink and play $1 video poker at the main bar at the Bellagio - sitting at the same place everytime. If the seat is not available, I wait until it is!! I always walk away with at least $300. Also, before the MGM was remodeled, on at least one day I would go to the Flying Monkey Bar and start the morning off with a few Bloody Mary's and video poker - it was a great start to the day!

[Beth]

We never miss a meal at Rosemary's. Not the cheapest, but it is the best. It is on Sahara in a strip shoping center. Once you try it once it becomes addicting. We also stay at The Mirage on every trip. With all of the new and beautiful megahotels going up we still love The Mirage.

[TJDEWITTIOT]

Always, always, always give the porn slappers and time share scumbags a big hug and tell them all thanks for the great job they do to continue to contribute to the atmosphere that can only be found in Sin City.
Then we go to the airport 5 hours early so we can hang out and watch all of the happy people just arriving so I can stand at their gate and give them my poor puppy dog look with my empty pants pockets hanging out and yell: "You foolish people! You work hard for your money! Don't stay here and throw it away!"

[yankeeblue]

i agree with ellis island, no trip is complete without a cheap steak and beer.

as for vons, they are owned by safeway, so if you have a safeway card, you should be able to use it.

sorry James, no Safeway or Vons here in Michigan. Thats why it is special for us when we go to Vegas! We can never understand how anyone who lives there can possibly buy ice cream in the summer and get it home before it melts!! Do you speed all the way? :eek:

[Play2Win]

In N Out is a must!

[bosslady]

We always go to Arizona Charlie's at least once for the $2.49 Steak & Eggs, never disappointed. Also Ellis Island $4.95 Steak. And Main Street Station, either for their breakfast buffet or to the 777 Brew Pub for a late night snack.

[SandyA]

Always stay at Caesars (for most of our stay). always have the luncheon special at The Palm, catch at least one of the Bellagio fountain shows.

[54hoppin]

We always have a limo pick us up, sometimes as the Griswalds, sometime as King Daddy, Some times as ACE, my alias in Vegas.
Always go to Casino Royal for Cheap craps and Cheap Roulette on the double table.
Wife always gets us an upgrade at what ever Hotel we stay at no charge.
Always wear our Vegas clothes.

[vegasgirl]

I never miss playing lots of video poker and always dine at a nice restaurant,the spot varies,but we always dress to the nines(like it was old Vegas).

[pkramer]

I always go to Memphis Championship Barbecue! and buy two slabs to take home http://www.memphis-bbq.com
I also go to Big Mama Rib Shack 2230 W. Bonanza, Las Vegas, NV 89106
Phone (702) 597-1616 FAX (702) 646-8866
Toll-Free 1-888-313-RIBS (7427)
http://www.bigmamasribs.com/index_html
for two slabs to go and I never miss one late night at Terribles Bougainvillea Cafe for roasted Chicken dinner 4.99
Paul

[meldodds]

We love the ice cream at the shop at the California, downtown.:D We park at Binion's watch a little Poker Tournament, then over to Golden Nugget for a nice, but small Buffet with the best (my Husband says) Bread pudding ever. Then some gambling. Before heading out to the strip, Ice cream in a waffle cone! preferably Rum Raisin!:D

[auntvonna]

for my last 60 trips to vegas, i have managed to spend a few days each visit at the stardust. i will miss it.


That makes two of us.

[mikeinct]

I always stay at the orleans.I have stayed there 9x and never a bad experience.I always go to the stratophere to play crapless craps.A dinner buffet at paris and then go to bellagio to see a fountain show and just walk around the casino.I always make a trip to green valley and fiesta henderson.I usually see a couple of movies,if the gambling is not going to good I'll see 5 or 6 movies.The palms is now a must for video poker.I like to go around the end of may.The weather is always nice 85-95 and its a good time for sports betting NBA playoffs and baseball. is it may yet?

[tlcrnicu]

The Auto show in the IP... It is different every single time we go, and we are always enjoy checking out the very cool cars. It's especially fun to see the cars of the rich and/or famous! I wonder where it will go when the IP is closed??????????????????????:(

[wiley]

We always go to the Conservatory at Bellagio - amazing to think of the talent, planning, and imagination that go into the displays.

[magicfish]

What do I always do in Vegas?

Rent a car

Drive down the strip at night - late night, early a.m. is a favorite time

Gamble at Terribles' - put just a $20 or so in their Texas Tea and Othello machines (won big previously on the Othello one cent, 18 line machines-well, big for a penny machine)

Eat a weekday Chinese lunch special (moo goo for me) at Terrible's Bouganvillea Cafe

Play BJ at Slots A Fun - and visit with the employees whom I've become buddies with over the years
Have a strawberry daiquiri at SAF

Eat a graveyard breakfast special at Terrible's Bouganvillea Cafe - usually more than once

Play low roller BJ at the Sahara

Take in a show at the Casbar Lounge at the Sahara

Eat the weekday Fajita Lunch (buffet - so much more than just fajitas) at Gardunos - at the Palms

Try to see Pete Valle as Big Elvis - at The Barbary Coast (I say try because he sometimes doesn't make it - illness, vacation, etc. - the first time I saw him perform was only after three unsuccessful attempts - but not a frequent problem lately)

I've got to see the Bellagio Fountain show at least once each visit, as well as the Bellagio Conservatory (assuming the display has changed since my last visit) - missed the fountain show one visit, and had a fit when I realized it!!!

Take in at least one show at Harrah's - Clint Holmes, Bareback (Skintight was in same time/theatre previously), or the Improv - the Improv is my favorite

Visit with my local friends - usually go to Firefly on Paradise for their tapas happy hour with a local couple,
and get together with my single girlfriend
to do various things each visit - she works two jobs, so it can be hard....but we always manage :)

I always try to get out and check out something different each visit, since I always rent a car - Red Rock, Mt. Charleston, Liberace Museum, new casinos - e.g., South Coast and Red Rock Station on last visit in May.

I always make a stop at either Von's or Target or a drugstore to stock up on snacks, soft drinks, and water, and I always buy little souvenirs for friends who do the same for me when they are in Vegas. In this way, we help one another to lessen the wait until the next trip .... or is that make it worse to wait until the next trip????

I also try to fit in - the breakfast buffet at Terribles, a meal at Chicago Joe's, dinner at Lawry's, lunch and VP at the Westin Casuarina, attending a show I haven't seen before, going downtown to walk around under the canopy, gambling at the Golden Gate and movies at Neonopolis - my favorite theatre anywhere. I do not, however, fit these in every visit - but I do try my best. :rolleyes:


But the one thing I ALWAYS do in Vegas is HAVE FUN!!!

[yanxfan]

I always remember to get the RIO to print
my SOUTHWEST "A" BOARDING PASS for
my return trip HOME!

Good advice Gregrio! I always want to do that and we ALWAYS stay at Rio. Who do you ask to do that for you, your host? T-8 for me!!!

[Vegasfan]

A trip to Vegas is not complete without at least one trip to Ghirardelli's next to Harrah's for one of their wonderful ice cream sundaes. They're the best in the West....... T-76 and counting every second.............

[iam4nd]

I racked my brain trying to think of something we do each time and really can't come up with anything. We will usually try to do something we haven't already done or see something we haven't already seen. I guess that could count as something we do each time. We also always spend time at the pools, but we missed that on a few winter trips.:rolleyes:

[hockeymom26]

Visit the Diamond room at Harrahs and Rio. To relax, eat and get away from the casino.
Play the same blazing sevens machine at the Rio.
Stop and play the Majestic Lions at the MGM.
Go to the Excal and get Krispy Kreme Donuts.
I always try to win, hockeydad tries not to lose !:D

[emmit1]

We always make sure to have at least one of the $0.99 shrimp cocktails from Golden Gate.

[westie]

Bellagio - conservatory and fountains
Fiesta - play FPDW
Todd's Unique - dining
Commanders Palace - $18.80 3-course lunch and 25 cent martinis
Car rental
Orleans - lounge acts, free drinks and usually breakfast buffet
Sunset Park - walk
Green Valley Library - internet access
Gold Coast - breakfast buffet and lounge act/free drinks
Ellis Island - free drinks, free drinks, free drinks and eat
Ventano - dining
Lose money
See several shows

[catgirl31]

I go to Vegas at least 4 times a year so the sightseeing has been done and now I can relax. Must dos every trip are:

- Margaritaville - great margs & volcano nachos!
- O'Sheas for low limit craps & black jack, which are hard to find on the strip
- A drinking afternoon at the Flamingo pool if it's between April & October
- Seafood Village Buffet at Rio for the lobster tails of course!
- Staying up until 2 or 3 am at least one night, just to prove I can still do it
- Watching the bartender antics at Carnival Court at Harrahs
- Dishes buffet at Treasure Island, love those fresh, hot mini donuts for desert with the freshly scooped vanilla bean ice cream!

I will miss the cheap margaritas and beer at the Westward Ho! :(

I was born in Vegas so being a Vegas baby I "must do" several trips to Vegas a year to keep it in my blood. :)

[The Gumbo Man]

Well, I like this question so I will hit the "add a Quote" button. Quick question: Suppose I entered three quotes: If I added another quote, would that make it a gallon?:rolleyes:

Now, many cultures have their own superstitions toward luck, fate, karma, etc. Some folks throw a coin in a fountain. Others will find a big fat Budda statue and rub its chubby belly. Others will find a way to rub the hair of a red-head.

Every trip to Las Vegas, I find myself going through the main entrance of the Mirage. Inside, at the main "crossroads", just before walking through the steamy jungle pathway to the main casino, there are two quite lovely and well-sculpted golden statues of mermaids. They are gorgeous! I ease over to one, and, looking around quickly, I give her a little pat on the rump. Nobody notices, so I slip over to the other mermaid, and even more cautiously, apply the same tender little tap to her butt as well.

You'd never believe it, but from that point forward, the long shots hit, the third 7 comes up, and I've even been visited by royals! Just Not In The Mirage.

For those of you who are wondering, no, this does not work with other lovely mermaid appendages. Nor does it work with any other statue in Nevada. At least that has been my experience. Although I did used to score better with the ladies after a touch of the left boot on the Elvis statue at the Hilton.:cool: Thank yew verrry much!

[gailgoodwin]

I'm one of those lucky people who live in las Vegas. Terribles has a great late night/early morning breakfast that is worth the journey. Believe it or not, they also have wonderful Chinese food. I find that hard to believe myself, but their Wor Won Ton soup is to die for! :D

[Sandypaws]

We always bring a bottle of champagne with us and then go and have a toast to returning to Vegas as we watch the water show at the Bellagio.

[vpugno@aol.com]

When we come to Vegas, we always come in October, we go to Red Rock Canyon. It is the most pleasant trip and quiet. We take our time driving through the canyon usually 3-4 hrs. Then the next thing we never miss is the breakfast buffet at Paris. OOH LA LA!!! Great breakfast. We are going to stay there this October since they closed the Westward Ho. Will miss those 3 bedroom apartments we stayed in for over 17 years.:)

Vera from Michigan

[fyschmidt]

:) We always go to see Big Elvis (Pete Vallee) at Barbary Coast. He performs free Tue-Thur from 3pm-6pm. He really is good and he really is big but you gotta love him. He puts out some great Elvis entertainment. The girls can have a chance to go up with him and shake the maraccas or the guys can go up and put on Elvis sideburns, wig and sunglasses with a fake guitar and "get down". My husband and I look foward to seeing and listening to him everytime we go to Las Vegas. He has an assistant who writes down requests to give him right before the show. "Viva Las Vegas"!!

[vegasmann]

We always go for Dinner at the Top of the tower at the Stratosphere.
and yes always watch the Steelers in the Sportsbook on the First Sunday i arrive.

[westie]

:) We always go to see Big Elvis (Pete Vallee) at Barbary Coast. He performs free Tue-Thur from 3pm-6pm. !!

I may be mistaken, but I think Pete performs M-Th from 3-6PM.

[staceydaze]

We always unpack at the Mirage and head right to the pool where we order mai tai's and start the vacation....
We make it a point to catch the volcano out front at least once, usually on the way to dinner, and we ALWAYS get over to Margaritaville for a night- time cocktail overlooking the strip. We also make sure to get a message at the Mirage spa and a ride on something on top of the Stratosphere! :eek:
We'll be there in 22 days!!!

[Steve]

I may be mistaken, but I think Pete performs M-Th from 3-6PM.

You're right Frank. This is from the Barbary Coast's website:

Pete Vallee as Big Elvis
Monday - Thursday from 3pm - 6pm

Steve

[nswanzy]

Right off the plane, we always drive out to Sams Town to play slots, (the slots are very good to us there) and have a quick & cheap lunch.

And as terrible as it sounds, and as terrible as they really were, we always had a "ho dog" at Westward Ho once every trip...just one of those things.
Now that the old ho is dead, we're feeling a little nostalgic!

Nan;)

[GrandCanyon]

I never miss going to Binion's Horseshoe and playing Craps. I have so many memories of my youth standing at those tables. It makes me feel young again.

[Boston_Bill]

Always have a beer at Gallaghers(NYNY). I like sitting at the bar and people watch.

Always make one trip to the Forum Shops.

Always stop by the Mirage.

[lucille]

We always make several trips to Ronald's Donuts on Spring Mountain. Yum!!!!

[giddydoowop]

This week's Topic Of The Week question is:

Is there something you have done every time you've been in Las Vegas? This could be visiting or staying at a particular hotel, dining at a certain restaurant or playing at a particular casino, but someting you have never missed doing in any trip.

We love Vegas. Go about twice a year. We never miss "Big Elvis" at the Barbary Coast. He puts on free afternoon shows. Also lunch at the Stratosphere's "Top of the World" restaurant. The Rio's buffet and rapid roulette at Sam's Town. Have fun!

[MrCuriosity]

Hi all,

First post, great forum by the way.

Visit NYNY
Eat a burger from Burger Palace, Imperial Palace
Play 1 game of bingo at the Gold Coast
Have 1 last $10 gamble at the airport before going home

[hipster818]

I am a very ritualistic person and so no matter how much or how little time I have there are a few things that I have to do, besides gamble. I’ll just list them, though they are not in any order.

1. Walk to Fashion Show Mall and but around for a bit
2. Walk and eat at Caribe Café at the Mirage.
3. Check out The Forum Shops to see what’s changed and eat at Spago
4. Go to the Hard Rock Hotel and gamble for a bit at have a milkshake at Mr. Lucky’s or happy hour at Pink Taco
5. Walk to Bally’s and check out the Casino.
6. Lastly, see the fountain show at Bellagio

:)

[shooter]

My wife and I have been going to LV since 1952. We always like to see what's new since our last visit because LV is always changing at a fast clip. When we went the first time, all that I remember being on the Strip was the Sahara, Desert Inn, Frontier and Flamingo. The Strip itself was a two-lane country road through the desert.

A number of the downtown casinos were store fronts that appeared to have been converted from normal downtown businesses. The El Cortez was the closest thing to what we now think of as a casino-hotel. It was fancier than the Golden Nugget was, then. The Pioneer was a store-front on the other side of the street from where the big cowboy sign now stands. That sign was their attraction on their building and, inside, the mechanical slot machines were built into cowboy figures. Each figure's left arm was raised and holding a six-gun and served as the slot machine handle. The Horseshoe was one of those store-front casinos that made good and took over the whole block and more. A Railroad station stood where the Plaza is now.

When we pass the Sahara on the way downtown, we always like to pick out the Arabs and camels in the parking lot. In 1952, this was the big display in front of the Sahara that dazzeled everybody. It and the Frontier must have been the first casinos on the Strip to have outside displays to attract attention. The Frontier was a series of two-story motel-like buildings and they had big prarie schooners on the grounds with state names on them. We always like to visit the animal habitat behind the Flamingo, watch the Bellagio water display, watch the gondolas in the Venetian, and have shrimp cocktails at the Golden Gate.

My goodness, I've been rambling.

[leighw55]

We love the downtown area and even when we are staying on the strip, we always spend at least one afternoon and into the night in downtown. Fremont Street cannot be beat. We also like to eat the shrimp cocktail in the Golden Gate. As for the strip, never miss the Bellagio Fountains and always go into the flower garden in the Bellagio, the smell alone is worth it.

[billfarr]

We always go to Freemont street in the evening to see what's going on. We are great people watchers and that's one of our favorite places. Matter of fact we've been staying downtown lately as she doesn't like me to drive if I've had more than a couple beers and I can stagger most any where downtown and not get into trouble. Well if I stay out of the G Gulch that is:D .

[LINDABO]

We usually go to the Victorian Room at the Barbary Coast for breakfast at least 2 or 3 times while we are there. They have the best French Toast and Belgium Waffle, plus they give you some chocolate chip coffee cake to enjoy with your coffee before you get your main course.

Also, a trip to Laughlin for the day. Gets you away from the crowded Strip.

[AMMARSON]

Shopping:

-forum shops @ Caesar's
-Aladdin Desert passage
-Factory outlets
-Fashion Show Mall

Dining:

-Emeril's
-L'Atelier Joel Robuchon
-Spago's
-Cheesecake Factory
-Outback Steakhouse

Slots:

-Money in the Bank
-Money Storm
-Tabasco

Hotel:

MGM

All above have now become rituals.

[Bevhill1]

I always gamble at the Terribles casino.;)

[Stephanie]

Sushi at Shibuya in the MGM and the martini luch at commander's palace-- where we drink the house commander's palace blue martinis-- excellent nothing better

[djeter]

we never miss the buffet at The Rio!! yummo

[Dawn]

Everytime we visit Vegas, traditionally we go to Slots of Fun on our first evening. We have been doing this for years and now we just relax and slum it the first night. So much fun! Also, we always go at least once to Sam's Town, get a rack of dollars, and play the dollar slots on the bar. Have always come away a winner. Start wit 3 - 4 coins and as I win, bet more. Have walked away with $300 - $800.:D

[lucille]

We never miss going to Ronald's Donuts on Spring Mountain and the Ethel M. Chocolate factory.

[Bama]

Drinks on the balcony of the Fontana Bar in the Bellagio. Without a doubt the BEST place to watch the fountain show.:)

[Mulberryflash56]

Steve, I always do ELLIS ISLAND RESTAURANT for the Hungry Man's Breakfast and the $4.95 steak dinner....Gene

[JillHawkins]

Ellis Island and Happy Hour at Hard Rock Hotel. Those 2 for 1 house margaritas are the best!!

[ddloml]

I always put $3.00 into a Megabucks machine and play one pull. One time I won $6.00; usually one pull is all I get.

[Doc. Digit]

That would be dinning. and getting out and taking tours of the desert.

[Mr. Papageorgio]

We always do Mira Lago for the Sunday Brunch. An indulgent treat that we cannot do without when we are there. :D