So we aren’t going to tell you that Las Vegas isn’t worth enjoying for a weekend.
Getting lost in the chaos of Sin City, where nothing is off-limits and anything can happen, is a must-have experience for any entertainment lover with a penchant for winning big and getting into the best kind of trouble.
But maybe flying to Las Vegas isn’t in your budget or you’ve been there, done that already and are looking for a new sinful backyard to explore. You needn’t worry. Why? Because there’s plenty of different cities on par with Vegas, scattered throughout the United States.
Leave behind the Elvis impersonators and consider this list of other American alternatives to the Las Vegas weekend.
#1. Alternative to the Las Vegas Weekend: New Orleans, Louisiana
So to begin, we should tell you that New Orleans isn’t a top spot if you love cruising casinos BUT they do have them so if you’re itching to roll the dice you won’t be without. What really makes this city ideal for a raging weekend away with pals, is its charismatic French Quarter, lively jazz bars, and of course a little thing called Mardi Gras. The vibrant celebration lasts for two weeks is world-famous for its all-out parades and electric parties. Ride on floats, drink in the streets and cheer on your favourite brass bands while being showered with multi-coloured beads!
The best news is that you don’t even have to visit on a weekend to experience the best of New Orleans because it is a well-known fact that no matter the weeknight it’s a party on Bourbon Street! The rowdiness of this city is unrivaled, and it’s got a food scene (jambalaya anyone?) that can’t be matched — especially by Las Vegas.
#2. Alternative to the Las Vegas Weekend: Atlantic City, New Jersey
Another classic resort town that is a favourite amongst the debaucherous, Atlantic City is located on the coast of New Jersey and features an iconic boardwalk that rivals some of the more famous landmarks on the Las Vegas Strip. Not unlike the City of Lights, Atlantic City offers overwhelmingly vibrant casinos that include spas, fine dining, ample shopping and a little culinary treat known as salt water taffy.
Atlantic City also has something that Las Vegas doesn’t: a beach. That means that after you’ve spent your weekend playing the slots at The Borgata you can take a relaxing walk along the Jersey Shore’s white sand beaches or enjoy one of the many oceanfront bars like the colorful Bally’s Beach Bar.
#3. Alternative to the Las Vegas Weekend: Reno, Nevada
Reno is a great alternative to Las Vegas because it offers a very similar selection of activities to its big brother but without the often wildly expensive hotel packages. The main drag is North Virginia Street which you’ll find to be reminiscent of Las Vegas’ Fremont Street, in that you can casino hop down the whole thing.
There’s also plenty to do if gambling isn’t your thing! Consider visiting museums like the National Automobile Museum and the Nevada Museum of Art, or head to Animal Ark, a wildlife sanctuary and education center. A visit to Reno won’t be complete either without stopping by the famous Lake Tahoe and during the winter, staying at one of the many ski resorts surrounding it.
#4. Alternative to the Las Vegas Weekend: Palm Springs, California
A city that shares the same desert vibes as the great Nevada, Palm Springs is located in the Sonoran Desert of southern California and is renowned for more than just a decent gambling scene. While it’s true if you’re looking for alternatives to Las Vegas, you’re probably keen to visit a few casinos, Palm Springs has something for both the luxury and nature enthusiasts among us. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the world-class courses scattered throughout the resort town, specifically the historical O’Donnell Golf Club.
If golfing doesn’t interest you, never fear, you can get away from it all by hiking, horseback riding or biking through the surrounding Coachella Valley or hit up in the hot springs and spas in town to really relax. But that’s only after you indulge in too many cocktails at the blackjack table.
#5. Alternative to the Las Vegas Weekend: Niagara Falls, New York
Oh Niagara Falls, not only a natural wonder but also a shiny, electric town that straddles the Canada-United States border, this small city is a dream to anyone looking to win big while also travelling back in time to the 90s. There are plenty of casinos to choose from (some nicer than others) on both sides of the border and countless attractions to fill a weekend of fun with.
Take in the majestic collection of waterfalls from the Canadian side or enjoy a walk around Goat Island on the American side and get up, close and personal. Next you’ll want to take a stroll up Clifton Hill which is where the magic of the 90s truly thrives. They have loud, shiny arcades for the kids in us (or with us) and also silly, kitschy attractions that haven’t really changed since they first arrived decades ago, think haunted houses like House of Frankenstein and Dracula’s Castle.
Niagara Falls also shares one big draw with Las Vegas: tacky wedding opportunities!
