Trifter

Here are 10 ways to embrace romance in lovely Las Vegas:

1.  Take a gondola ride at the Venetian. While it doesn’t have the same Old World romantic effect as the real deal in Venice, it is a lovely way to enjoy the hotel.

2.  Visit Vosges Haut-chocolat at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.  I once said that Vosges was “travel, tranquility, bliss by chocolate“, and how could that not be romantic? Plus, they have beautiful purple heart-shaped boxes for their Exotic Truffle Collection or, in time for Valentine’s day, an Aphrodisiac Red Fire Hat Box filled with spicy-chocolate delights.  

3.  Channel the romance of France, and book a patio table at the restaurant Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas. From there you will have a perfect view of the Bellagio dancing fountains.        

                                  Image credit: Author                

4. For a more collegial atmosphere, head to UNLV. The campus has a compact but beautiful xeriscape garden just outside the Barrick Museum and Harry Reid Center for Environmental Studies. For those who love the outdoors and are enchanted by deserts plants, this is a cozy and sweet place to spend time with someone you love. Bring a little picnic and enjoy the desert landscape and if you want, then head into the museum.  

5.  Go to the Springs Preserves. This is another desert-centric idea, that is great for nature lovers. The Gardens at the Springs Preserve includes over 1,000 plant species. After learning about desert plants and smart water use, you can pop into the Cafe by Wolfgang Puck, which is on site. With deliciously healthy fare, what is not to love?

6.  Do you crave old Vegas charm? Then you need to head to the Golden Steer Steakhouse. This place can easily be overlooked from the outside, but inside, it exudes that retro-vibe. It’s just off the Strip, but easily accessible.

7.  For vegetarians and indie souls in the crowd, I recommend getting away from the Strip and heading towards UNLV again. Paymon’s Mediterranean Cafe offers a great selection for vegetarians and meat lovers a like. The best part, though is that in the enchanting atmosphere, especially in the narrow dining portion, which is more so on the south side of the restaurant. The music and the beautiful decor/paintings create a lovely escape into another world.  Afterwords, if you like cool vintage clothes, head across the street to the Buffalo Exchange. You can find modern and retro wardrobe pieces fit for a romantic evening (or any other purpose).

8.  Another off the beaten tracks spot: Panevino Ristorante. This is off the Strip, but has an excellent view of it, in additional to it’s delicious Italian menu. If good food and wine don’t equate to romance, what does?

9.  Time is running out, so let’s return to the Strip: Catch a show. Really any Cirque du Soleil show could ignite a romantic evening (think “O” at the Bellagio), but since we are speaking the language of love, why not go to the Beatles LOVE at the Mirage? It is a magical experience and should make any Beatles fan quite happy.

10.  This mostly applies if you are flying back home during the evening (but daytime fews are gorgeous, too!): As you wave goodbye to Las Vegas, take a moment to absorb the beautiful view below. The sparkling, glitter that decorates the dark night is quite a beautiful sight. Enjoy it! And hopefully come back later for more romantic delights.

There are other romantic sites out there, but I have to keep some for myself, hehe.  However, if you really want to infuse your Vegas vacation with more romance, I did share a few other hot spots on my blog post Romantic Las Vegas Recommendations. 

If you still have the travel bug, stop by Fargo, North Dakota: 10 Cool Places for a completely different set of fun things to do. Happy Travels!