Las Vegas: Hidden Gems Edition

1. Hidden Speakeasies

One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas is hunt for secret bars. I love that there’s this whole underground speakeasy scene where you can sip on incredible cocktails in totally hidden spaces.

• The Laundry Room: It’s located inside Commonwealth on Fremont Street, and you need a secret phone number to make a reservation. It feels super exclusive, and the cocktails are amazing! It’s perfect if you’re into craft drinks and want a more intimate, laid-back vibe.

• Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den: You’ll find this one inside the Block 16 Food Hall at The Cosmopolitan. It’s hidden behind a bookshelf! The drinks are creative, and it’s such a fun, mysterious spot to sneak away to for a break from the busy Strip.

• 1923 Prohibition Bar: Tucked inside Mandalay Bay, this place is like stepping back in time. It’s behind an unmarked door, and they serve whiskey flights and live jazz. It’s one of those hidden gems that’s perfect for a low-key evening.

2. Flavor Packed Dining Spots

I always make it a point to find unique dining spots, and Vegas has some incredible restaurants that are brimming with flavor:

• Esther’s Kitchen: This trendy eatery in the Arts District focuses on Italian cuisine with fresh, house-made pasta and rustic flavors. Known for its locally sourced ingredients, you can savor dishes like cacio e pepe or their delicious focaccia bread in a vibrant yet laid-back setting.

• é by José Andrés: This place is a total foodie dream. It’s hidden inside Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan, and you get this incredible, multi-course tasting menu that’s completely over-the-top in the best way possible. It’s definitely a splurge, but worth every penny.

• Lotus of Siam: This Thai restaurant is a local favorite. Known for its Northern Thai dishes, Lotus of Siam has earned a reputation for some of the best Thai food in the country. It’s tucked away in a shopping center but is always worth the detour.

• The Black Sheep: A hidden gem in southwest Vegas, The Black Sheep offers a modern take on Vietnamese cuisine with dishes that are rich in flavor. It’s a cozy spot that the locals love, offering a creative twist on classics like spring rolls and pho.

• Raku: Located in Chinatown, Raku is a hidden spot that serves incredible Japanese food, specializing in robata-grilled dishes. The intimate setting and extraordinary attention to detail make it a must-visit for food lovers.

• Sparrow + Wolf: Located in Chinatown, this restaurant offers an inventive mix of global cuisine with a twist. With dishes like wood-grilled oysters and crispy pork jowl, it’s the perfect spot for those wanting a memorable, off-Strip dining experience without the tourist crowds.

3. The Neon Boneyard

For a bit of Vegas history, I love visiting the Neon Museum. The Neon Boneyard is where all the old signs from classic casinos go to retire. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time to vintage Vegas, and it’s such a cool place to take photos. I always recommend it to anyone who wants to see a different, quieter side of the city’s glitz and glamor.

4. Container Park

Just off Fremont Street, Container Park is this artsy outdoor shopping area that’s completely built out of shipping containers. It has cute boutique shops, local restaurants, and live music. Plus, there’s a giant fire-breathing praying mantis sculpture at the entrance! It’s a fun, quirky spot that’s great for an afternoon stroll or a low-key evening.

5. The Secret Garden of Siegfried & Roy

Nestled inside The Mirage, The Secret Garden is an absolute hidden gem. It’s this lush, peaceful escape where you can see white lions, tigers, and dolphins. It’s one of those places that feels totally removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Every time I go, I’m reminded of how magical it is to just slow down and take in the beauty of nature.

6. Seven Magic Mountains

If you’re willing to drive a bit outside the city, Seven Magic Mountains is a must-see. It’s an art installation in the middle of the desert, featuring seven towering stacks of brightly colored boulders. It’s super Instagrammable and has this incredible contrast between the bright colors and the natural desert landscape. It’s such a peaceful, unique place to visit.

7. Omega Mart

For something truly bizarre and mind-bending, I recommend checking out Omega Mart inside Area 15. It’s part art installation, part interactive experience, and it looks like a regular supermarket at first, but the deeper you explore, the weirder it gets. There are secret rooms, hidden passageways, and surreal art everywhere. It’s so much fun and unlike anything else you’ll experience in Vegas.

8. The Pinball Hall of Fame

If you’re into retro games like me, you’ll love The Pinball Hall of Fame. It’s packed with vintage pinball machines from the 1950s and 60s, and you can actually play them! It’s such a cool, laid-back spot, and I love getting lost in all the nostalgia. Plus, it’s a great escape from the high-energy atmosphere of the Strip.

9. Chandelier’s Hidden Bar

At The Cosmopolitan, most people are mesmerized by the multi-level chandelier, but what they don’t know is that there’s a secret bar hidden inside! On Level 1.5, there’s an unmarked spot where you can grab a drink in a cozy little hideaway. It’s one of those secret spots that feels like you’ve stumbled onto something special.

10. Secret Hiking Trails

If you want to take a break from the city entirely, Vegas has some amazing hiking trails just outside of town. Red Rock Canyon is always a favorite, but I love exploring the lesser-known trails like Calico Tanks Trail. It’s a gorgeous hike with stunning views, and it’s far enough from the usual tourist spots that you get a sense of peace and solitude. Another hidden gem is Sloan Canyon, where you can hike among ancient petroglyphs. It’s a beautiful escape into nature and perfect if you’re looking to recharge away from the Strip.

Hotel Finds

When I stay in Vegas, I always look for hotels that offer something a little different or that perhaps offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Sure, the big names on the Strip are iconic, but I love finding hidden gems that provide a more relaxed, intimate vibe.

• Nobu Hotel: Situated inside Caesars Palace, Nobu Hotel offers an exclusive, zen-like retreat amid the hustle and bustle of the Strip. With Japanese-inspired décor, high-end service, and priority access to the famed Nobu Restaurant, it blends luxury with tranquility.

Click Here To See Nobu Hotel Accommodations

• The Cromwell: This is another great option if you’re looking for something more boutique. It’s smaller than most Vegas hotels but has this chic, modern design and intimate vibe with luxurious Parisian-inspired décor that I love. The rooftop pool is incredible, and the overall atmosphere is much more relaxed than the massive resorts. With only 188 rooms, it provides a more personalized experience compared to the mega-resorts.

Click Here To See The Cromwell Accommodations

• The Nomad Las Vegas: This is one of my favorites for its sophisticated, boutique vibe inside Park MGM. It feels like a luxurious escape with its European-style rooms and a chic rooftop pool that feels exclusive.

Click Here To See The NoMad Accommodations

• Delano Las Vegas: This hotel offers all-suite accommodations with a minimalist, modern design. It’s connected to Mandalay Bay, so you get easy access to the casinos, but it feels like a peaceful retreat from the bustling Strip.

Click Here To See Delano Las Vegas Accommodations

• Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas: This non-gaming hotel is pure luxury, offering incredible Strip views from the sky-high bar and a serene atmosphere that’s perfect if you’re looking to enjoy Vegas in style without the casino crowd right at your doorstep.

Click Here To See Waldorf Astoria Accommodations

Conclusion

There’s so much more to Las Vegas than just the usual hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Exploring the city’s hidden gems and secret spots always makes my trips feel extra special. From speakeasies and unmarked restaurants to quirky art installations and peaceful nature escapes, these unique experiences are what keep me coming back to Vegas time and time again.

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