Everybody loves coming to Las Vegas! This shining city in the Nevada desert isn’t called The Entertainment Capital of the World for nothing. Great music, dazzling shows, thrilling gambling, and fine dining combine for a ton of fun. But like we said, it’s in the desert. So we won’t blame you if there are times you just need some relief from Las Vegas summer weather. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to cool off in this hot town. Check out some of these techniques and escapes to beat the Las Vegas heat.
There are plenty of great walkable areas in Las Vegas, but you can do all that walking indoors, too. During the day, you can avoid the blazing sun by using the many connections between resorts and casinos flowing with air conditioning. Tunnels, sheltered walkways, and carpeted routes await as you explore the Strip. On the way, you’ll pass eateries, souvenir shops, and plenty of other distractions. It’s fun and exciting to traverse this town on an elegant and pleasant path.
People love to do all kinds of things on their Vegas vacations, and shopping is definitely one of them! Set aside a few hours to seek out favorite fashions, unexpected tchotchkes, and superb mementos to take home. The Downtown Arts District lets you jump between galleries as you search for that perfect piece to add to your collection. The Fashion Show shopping mall has over 250 retailers from which to choose. Just about every resort has its own spots to check out, like the collection at Circa.
Did you know that Las Vegas is famous for its entertainment? Of course you did! You can’t walk five yards without bumping into a billboard advertising one event or another. From legendary residencies by A-list artists to local magic shows and tantalizing burlesque, you can go big or choose intimate performances. Check out one of the half dozen Cirque du Solei extravaganzas, or see what’s playing in the high-tech Sphere. You can even opt for a movie in one of the amazing local IMAX theaters. There’s something for everyone in Las Vegas venues.
You literally can’t walk a block in Las Vegas without passing a property that has a pool on its premises. Poolside social scenes are one of the favorite gathering options for locals and visitors alike. Family-friendly splashes can be found all over the city in hotels, resorts, and water parks. If you’re looking for an adult-only experience, then Circa Stadium Swim® is the perfect choice. You can even gamble on your favorite teams as you frolic in the water.
It should go without saying that when hanging out in the desert, you need to be sure to drink plenty of water. Thankfully, in Las Vegas, there’s all kinds of drinking to be had! From excellent juice bars (like Juice Stars downtown) to craft cocktail bars, there’s no end of choices to cool you down and wet your whistle. You can even opt to have IV drip therapy to replace your fluids after a heavy night of adult beverages and merrymaking. You’ll always be near bottled water wherever you go, so don’t skip on staying ahead of your thirst.
Another way to beat the Las Vegas heat is to leave it behind for a little while. You can do that at several nearby natural areas which aren’t quite as blazing. If you’re driving, you can reach Mount Charleston in under an hour and get some relief from high temperatures and the city’s non-stop energy. It’s usually about 20 degrees cooler in this bucolic setting, which boasts spectacular views and excellent picnic grounds. Take a relaxing hike in calmer climes and even visit the seasonal waterfall.
Ice in the desert? How is this possible? Thanks to the many magical ways of Las Vegas, there are some novel options for folks to get into some frozen fun in more ways than one. The Minus 5 Ice Bar has three locations in town where you can lounge in an icy ambiance that will make you feel like you’re at the North Pole. Hit one of the ice rinks the city has to offer to show off your skills. If you’re hanging Downtown, grab a slushy on Fremont Street, or just seek out one of the many creameries offering artisan ice cream. You can always have a taste of winter in Vegas!
Most people gamble a little when they visit Las Vegas, and the Golden Gate Casino has been around since the start of Vegas (yes, really!). Professional card players try their strategy. Sports fans show up to bet on their favorite teams at places like the Circa Sportsbook, while other folks try their luck at the slots. You could even wager on tiny mechanical horse racing! All of these places feature refreshing drinks and cool air conditioning, a perfect refuge from the desert sun outside. They all offer some of the best fun you can have in this town.
There’s no reason for Las Vegas summer weather to impact your cool outings on and off the Strip. Between the many indoor destinations, great outdoor adventures, and heat-defying services, you’ll always be able to beat the Las Vegas heat. Bring your sun lotion, bathing suit, and this list to have you prepared for your good times in Vegas!