Vegas Days and Nights

By: Monica Jones

To the contrary what happens in Vegas is normally supposed to stay in Vegas. This past weekend I returned to Sin City after a 4-year hiatus looking for some fun and relaxation and got a chance to blog about my trip via The B Connect. Amidst the 100° weather I arrived to McCarran International ready to see what Vegas had in store for me. After a quick stop to drop off our bags at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino we ventured to Downtown Las Vegas to visit local breakfast and lunch restaurant Eat. Eat located at 707 Carson Avenue is a small modern yet chic eatery that offers up your classic American fare with a twist on the traditional. A labor of love from Chef Natalie Young is becoming popular for all the right reasons more so for the quality of food and the family friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has garnered rave reviews from the likes of Chef Anthony Bourdain and Magic Johnson who’ve all stopped by to taste the creations at the downtown gem. Recommended: Cinnamon Biscuits and Shrimp and Grits.

After a long day exploring and playing in the casino’s in downtown LV it was time for more fun in the sun! Because what better way to beat the heat than sit in it near the pool. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s Nirvana Pool is a great way to cool down. The experience at the Hard Rock Hotel was underwhelming the rooms in the casino tower aren’t as nice as the rooms located within the HRH tower. The hotel had a dress code after 8pm and construction in the main lobby and layout of the hotel felt a bit off. The hotel definitely has a party atmosphere and isn’t ideal for families plus the hotel is currently undergoing construction. For dinner I got a chance to check out Gordan Ramsey’s BurgR restaurant nestled inside Planet Hollywood. The menu mainly compromised of beef, fries, and shakes is simple enough to please your Vegas hangover. The Southern Yardbird burger and sweet potatoe fries were divine. Majority of my days were spent poolside with a frosty cocktail in hand but my favorite daytime activity would be shopping! Spend an afternoon at Fashion Show or the Prime Outlets for a fun filled day of shopping. Taking a stroll down to the Freemont Experience during the day is also a way to escape the hustle and bustle of the strip. If you’re staying on the strip visit the Polaroid Museum and Fotobar to keepsake your digital memories. The Polaroid Fotobar provides a ready in minutes nostalgic remake of all your favorite photos. If you’re looking for a creative souvenir this gem located near the LINQ is a must on your to do list. Sundays in Vegas are made for daytime fun in the sun and Rehab the all day pool party provides the remedy. Prices normally range from $30-50 for both females and males. Vegas is always a good time for a quick getaway. Be sure to plan ahead to maximize on a short stay.