Every year, I have people ask me for recommendations about the best things to do in Vegas. While I’ve been coming to Las Vegas for well over a decade, I feel like I don’t have the best advice because I’m typically such a creature of habit—until now. I recently had the pleasure of making a quick, 48-hour trip to Vegas, on behalf of Las Vegas, where I packed in the whole experience of Las Vegas and the PBR Team Series Championship. 

In the span of two days, I feel like I’m now a veteran when it comes to what to do in Vegas, especially if you’re headed here for the NFR or the PBR Team Series Championship! 

Where to Stay

Paris 
4/5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I recently stayed at the Paris for the first time, and I loved it. I had a standard double queen room, and it was really spacious (the bathroom was amazing)! I feel like I quickly got the hang of where things were, and it wasn’t overwhelming or overcrowded. 

Mirage 
4.5/5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 
I’ve stayed at the Mirage numerous times, and it’s one of our favorite spots. A few of my favorite restaurants can be found in the hotel, they have great bars, lots of gambling options, and I think it’s really easy to navigate. They also have a great coffee shop downstairs that has one of my favorite grab-and-go breakfast selections. 

South Point 
4/5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 
If you’re coming for either of these events, South Point is a great place to stay. It’s down the strip, and considered to be away from the action, but if you’re into a slower paced setting, then this is the spot for you. They have a number of restaurants featuring a variety of options (Mexican food, Oyster Bar, Steakhouses, Italian, Sushi, and buffet, as well as a few deli and burger joints). If you’re coming for a western sports event, chances are you already know about the arena, which hosts a variety of different events. If you’re coming with kids, South Point has a bowling alley and cinema inside! 

The Grand View 
3.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 
The Grand View is across the road from the South Point. It’s considered to be a time share; however they have the options for those who don’t own a share to book rooms. Rooms feature a kitchen, dining, and living area, which is great if you’ll be in town for a while because you can bring in your own food, etc. Because it is a long-term stay, amenities are limited, and the rooms are a bit dark + dated. If you need to be close to the South Point this is a great option, otherwise I’d recommend staying at a property on the strip. 

MGM Grand 
3.75/5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 
I’ve stayed at MGM numerous times, and it’s a very large property (which means it almost always has rooms available). There are a number of food options (both via restaurants and a food court), activities, and some shopping. It can be overwhelming to figure out where you’re going, but it’s a still a good option. 

Other Recommendations: 
Resorts World: I haven’t stayed here before, but I’ve heard lots of great things. If you’re coming for NFR, Rodeo Vegas has moved to Resorts World, and it has a lot of nighttime events (rodeo watch parties, concerts, after parties). 

The Virgin: I haven’t stayed at the Virgin in Las Vegas, but I have stayed at the Virgin Dallas, and I loved the room. If you’re coming for NFR, The Virgin is a great choice because it’s a bit closer to Thomas and Mack (about a block off the Strip), and has concerts or after parties almost every night of the Finals. 

Where to Eat 

Sushi (South Point)
If you like sushi and you’re staying at South Point (or in the area to watch a roping or the Gold Buckle Ceremony), I highly recommend this restaurant. Justin and I came during The Run For A Million in August, and we ate here both nights we were in town. 

California Pizza Kitchen (Mirage) 
This is one of my favorites. When we’ve stayed at Mirage, it’s great to come back after the rodeo, sit down, and eat here. It’s located next to their sports book area, where they usually have the rodeo re-playing, so you can recap what you might have missed. The food selection is great, especially if you’re with a small group and want to split a couple of pizzas + a salad for the table. 

Hash House A Go Go (The LINQ) 
This is the brunch spots of all brunch spots. Located in The LINQ (and there’s also a location in The Plaza), they’re famous for their Bloody Mary’s, fresh from the farm food (they don’t have a microwave in their kitchen), and GENEROUS portions. You can easily order one thing off the menu, and split if for two! 

Carson’s Kitchen (Downtown Vegas)
If you’re downtown Las Vegas (think Fremont Street) then this is a great spot to grab any meal, especially brunch! It features both indoor and outdoor seating, and a diverse menu! Their drink options are absolutely fabulous! 

The Still (Mirage) 
You guys know I’m a beef lover, and I’m not lying when I say that this place has the best sliders I’ve ever eaten. I dream about them every year!! You can grab a late lunch before the rodeo, grab dinner and watch the performance, or snag a bite on your way back! This is a spot I always eat at, at least once, during our trip! 

Javier’s (Aria)
This famous restaurant is known for its “Mexican Seafood” cuisine. This is on the higher price point, but the food and drinks are fabulous. Be advised, there are restroom attendants inside (a surprise if you’re using one for the first time). If you don’t like Mexican or seafood, then this probably isn’t the place for you. 

Dawg House (Resorts World) 
This sports bar has a limited menu, but a whole lot of fun inside. If you want a spot to leisurely watch the rodeo and eat, then this is the place. The menu features burgers, wings, sandwiches, and a couple of salads. You can also grab a gourmet grilled cheese, from The Mouse House, a grilled cheese truck located inside Dawg House.

Other Recommendations: 
Guy Fieri Burger Place 
Lawry’s The Prime Rib 

What to Experience

TopGolf: This is a fun, family-friendly experience while you’re in Vegas. Just make sure you download the app and make a reservation in advance! 

Highroller at The LINQ: Another great family-friendly experience! This is one that’s best to do at night, so you can see the lights of Vegas in full display. You can grab a drink beforehand, or hop on a capsule with a bar!! The more the merrier! 

Other Recommendations: 
Concerts
Cirque du Soleil

PBR Team Series Championship Tips: 

Fan Fest + After Party- Every day before the event, there’s a Fan Fest held in front of T Mobile Arena. It has live music, interactive experiences, as well as meet and greets with each team’s athletes. This is also the same area where their post-event After Party is held (right down the block at Loser’s Bar). If you’re a PBR fan, this is the spot to be, both before and after the rodeo!! Fan Fest is family-friendly. 

NFR Tips: 

Shuttles- If you have NFR tickets, I recommend taking a shuttle from your hotel to Thomas and Mack. Almost all hotels on The Strip have a shuttle that goes to and from TM. At night the line can be a bit long, so make sure you bring a jacket/you’re prepared to wait when it’s chilly!