The sun was setting so we were now in prime time to see the neon lights of Old Vegas. I really had no idea that the swanky hotels of the Strip and the gritty, “Elvis and Lil’ White Wedding chapel” sections of Vegas were actually quite a long distance apart. We grabbed a Lyft (we no longer use Uber. They are horrible to their drivers.) at the Aria Hotel. There is quite a learning curve as to where ride shares are allowed to pick up. Some are down in the garage basement or around the back, this one was right at the entrance.
Pick up was right in front.
The “old strip” is on Freemont Street. I wasn’t sure where we should get dropped off specifically. We ended up right in front of a spot I wanted to check out anyway!
Container Park.
This guy was guarding the entrance! He breathed fire!!! I waited for him to do it again…he didn’t.
This place was so very cool. It is made up of old shipping containers, stacked high. There were street food vendors and cozy little bars. In the center there’s a huge play fort and giant sized games to partake in. During the day it’s family friendly, but after 8:00pm it’s adults only! Drunken Giant Jenga, anyone?
Outdoor seating and faerie lights galore!
Walk up BBQ.
A view from the upper level as we search for a rest room.
Still looking.
They even had live music! These gals were pretty dang good.
Breathe fire, dude!!!
We could have spent the whole evening here, but I was anxious to get to the legendary Downtown.
Squee!!!
My actual shoe size.
“World’s Largest Pint Glass”.
This covered bit has a light show going on all night along with some blasting music.
Four Queens
There were dozens of street artists doing magic, painting or just looking unusual
Binion’s Casino. The hotel portion has been closed since 2009 due to asbestos. Did you need to know that?
One of the oldest!
We were pretty well pooped by by this time, so we just did a lap and decided to head back to Trump for a night cap.
Hotel bar
Yup, that’s where we were.
Loungers lounging in the lounge.
We ordered two Manhattans. They were perfectly crafted and served in the most delightful etched glasses. They were so lovely I considered filching them. Why is it that when I’m on vacation I feel a compulsion to commit thievery? After we got the bill, I regretted not throwing them in my purse.
Two drinks, $50 bucks. Oy Vay!
They got to pay for the crystal chandeliers somehow, I guess.
Time to head up to bed…
Our view was even more impressive at night.
The very end of the strip.
We hemorrhaged cash all day and not at the slots. Tomorrow we’ll get a better handle on Where to find food and drink!
Up Next: Do I really need biscuit as big as my head?