Overview

Las Vegas is one of the craziest places on the planet. People go to Las Vegas for many reasons - from gambling in the best casino to watching some of the best shows to amazing strip clubs for bachelor parties to great late night bars and clubs to relaxing at hotel spas and shopping. No matter what you are into, Las Vegas probably has it.

Before you go to Las Vegas make sure you check out the vacation packages instead of booking your hotel room and flight separately. Las Vegas packages tend to be very good - it feels like Las Vegas hotels are subsidizing the flight to get you to stay with them and gamble at their casino.

South West Airlines regularly has good deals to Las Vegas, especially if you want to book a last minute flight for a weekend getaway. They also offer most of the good Las Vegas vacation packages. This can be a good way to stay at one of the top hotels, like the Ballagio or the Mandalay Bay, for a more reasonable price. It's always worth checking your options on Expedia or Orbitz as well, but it's going to be hard to beat South West Airlines for cheap flights and hotel packages.

As for shows in Las Vegas, there is everything from the many resident Cirque du Soleil shows to concerts by Celine Dion. Las Vegas events often sell out, so start looking early and book tickets before your trip for new shows. You are also likely to get a better deal on a show, if you reserve tickets in advance. Your hotel concierge might be able to get you last minute tickets, but there is always a markup.

Once you are there it is very easy to get around by foot on the main Vegas strip, but there also are plenty of taxis and limousines. If you want to go somewhere we would recommend taking a limo instead of a taxi. Limos are not much more expensive than taxis and you won't have to wait in long lines at the hotels for the next taxi. Check out average Las Vegas limo prices and see if you want to reserve something in advance for your group or just to get a ride from the airport.

Weather

The best time of year in Las Vegas is the spring and fall, if you want to spend some time outside. Most of the large hotels and resorts have great outdoor pools that are very fun from spring to fall, but will be closed in the winter. If you are mostly going there for the gambling, shows and partying, it doesn't matter when you go, Las Vegas is always packed - especially on weekends.