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Top 10 Las Vegas Attractions

The Nevada desert seems an unlikely setting for the glittering jewel of Las Vegas, but in the years since its founding the city has burgeoned into a beckoning paradise full of luxury resorts and incomparable delights. With so much to do in and around Las Vegas, the first-time traveler may feel overwhelmed by the bounty of available amusements. A few must-see attractions include:

1. The Fountains at the Bellagio Hotel
For those in love or those who wish to be, these plumes of liquid beauty rising amid the arid desert create a feeling of endless possibility, transporting the viewer to an Italian paradise where romance is king.

2. Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas
The French capital is known as “The City of Light”, but were it available Las Vegas would surely lay claim to that title. Take the elevator 460-feet inside this one-half-scale version of the Parisian landmark for an unparalleled view of the city at night.

3. Stratosphere Tower
Another high-rise attraction, the Stratosphere offers value-added viewing: Thrill rides. On the “Big Shot”, riders are catapulted from the 981-foot platform to the top of the 1,081-foot spire. Visitors can also jump in a controlled free-fall from the 108th floor.

4. Art Galleries at the Bellagio
Dedicated art aficionados and casual viewers alike can squeeze some culture into their Las Vegas holiday. Home to a constant array of changing installations, the Bellagio Hotel has displayed the works of artists ranging from Renoir to Lichtenstein.

5. Hoover Dam
Just 35 miles south of Las Vegas, this miracle of modern engineering is worth a visit if only to marvel at the sheer size of the edifice. The Art Deco sensibility that informed the construction of the dam makes it a work not only of function, but also of form.

6. Fremont Street Experience
Celebrating the rebirth of early Las Vegas, the Fremont Street Experience is just one stop on a tour of historic Downtown. An overhead canopy displays animation and music nightly beginning at 8:30 p.m.

7. Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay
The world’s only predator-based aquarium features a walk-through tunnel with a panoramic 180-degree view of swimming sharks. Dedicated to conservation of endangered species, the aquarium also exhibits jellyfish, piranha and the rare golden crocodile.

8. Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace
A shopping centre unlike any other, the Forum Shops deliver the ultimate in luxury. Featured retailers include Tiffany and Co., Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and many more, all arrayed to perfection in a scene of opulent Roman decadence.

9. Red Rock Canyon
Minutes away from the sensational Strip this natural wonder draws one million visitors annually. Encompassing 10,000 acres including miles of hiking trails, this National Conservation Area is a window into the rugged beauty of the American West.

10. Neon Museum
Another Downtown treat, the museum’s collection of 150 rescued neon signs are available for public viewing. Featured prominently in many motion pictures, the “Neon Boneyard” preserves the glittering past of Sin City. A walking tour includes several signs that are restored to their former glory.

Along with luxury hotels and world-class dining, Las Vegas is home to countless diversions. Whether you choose to marvel at man-made wonders, explore the American West or take a trip into the storied past of the city, Las Vegas holidays offer something for every sensibility.