You think you know it. Casinos, buffets, grand musical acts, grander fountains. That’s just what makes the postcard — beyond these few blocks, there’s even more that makes Las Vegas a destination like none other. And only those in the know experience it.

Matador has teamed up with the City of Lights to showcase the true depths of "the Entertainment Capital of the World." Grab your hiking gear, your wheels, your camera — whatever gets you going on the weekend — but be sure to leave your assumptions at home.



This series is proudly produced in partnership with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

Outdoor adventure, Las Vegas style

All you have to do is look at a map of Las Vegas and you’ll see the terrain: Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Death Valley National Park. It goes on and on.

The unexpected Las Vegas: Touring the Downtown Arts District

The Downtown Arts District in Las Vegas will surprise you with how many impressive local spots there are. On this quick bicycle tour around town we hit up a bunch of them, starting with Vesta Coffee for one of the best cups of coffee in town. 

Choose your own Vegas: Taking flight

Some of Las Vegas’s most exhilarating experiences happen over the city. Helicopter tours from Maverick Helicopters soar above the skyline downtown or out to the Grand Canyon. Then there’s SlotZilla, which shoots you 11 stories over the Fremont Street Experience in a one-of-a-kind zipline. These are just some of the ways to choose your own Vegas.

Choose your own Vegas: Health & wellness

When you’re ready for another side of Vegas, it’s time to head to Red Rock Canyon. Just 30 minutes from downtown Las Vegas, you’ll find an amazing scenic drive with beautiful high desert hiking trails. Back on the Strip, treat yourself to Yoga in the Sky at the High Roller or one of many tranquil treatments at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas Spa. There are so many ways to choose your own Vegas.

Choose your own Vegas: On the water

Las Vegas isn’t usually thought of as a water wonderland. But there are plenty of aquatic adventures here waiting to be enjoyed. However you want to swim, soak, or make a splash around town, Las Vegas is ready for you to dive in.

Choose your own Vegas: Making music

Las Vegas has a long history of attracting some of the greatest musical acts and inspiring hit songs from top artists. But it’s at some of the more intimate venues where you often find unexpected and unforgettable performances. If you search out Vegas through your ears, all kinds of discoveries await.

Choose your own Vegas: New discoveries

From nearby outdoor recreation opportunities to unexpected venues and offerings across the city, Las Vegas has countless new discoveries for your next trip. Whatever your itinerary, make sure to build in time for some surprises.

Choose your own Vegas: Reaching new heights

Reaching new heights is easy in Las Vegas. Check out the Strat, America’s tallest freestanding observation tower, or take in the view from the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel. And if you truly want the view of a lifetime, book a helicopter tour from Maverick Helicopters.

Choose your own Vegas: Culinary

With so many world-renowned chefs and restaurants, sometimes the hardest part about a trip to Vegas is deciding where to eat. Here are three choices, each promising a totally unique dining experience: If you’re looking for an unparalleled view, try The Strat. For radical takes on tacos (and dinner shows) try Rose. Rabbit. Lie. And for super romantic dining, where wine angels soar around you, check out Aureole at Mandalay Bay.

Redefining Vegas: The vibrant downtown

Outsiders may only associate Las Vegas with the Strip, but DTLV is a whole other story. Join travel personality Wade Holland and Velveteen Rabbit co-owners Pamela and Christina in Vegas for this rapid-fire tour of some of the raddest things to do in DTLV.

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