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Today I thought I'd offer up some itinerary suggestions for the spectators that are coming to town, but don't necessarily want to spend all their time at the Rio. Including breakfast suggestions, spas worth mentioning, and shopping stops, here are some Strip-side daytime activities to start your trip off right.
Fave Breakfasts: Buffets are so pre-milennium—even the respectable gourmet ones at the Bellagio, Wynn, and Dishes at TI (if you have kids, this is the best dessert bar) are no longer at the top of the must-see-and-do list. The best breakfast on the Strip is Thomas Keller's Bouchon at the Venetian (highroller). Don't miss the mini doughnuts and the French toast a the Augustus Café in Casesars Palace (ok to splurge), and if you need a quick bite, go to Le Creperie at Paris Las Vegas (cost conscious). For those willing to venture off the Strip, go to any of the Original Pancake House locations, and I hear that Hash House A Go Go is to die for.
Good Spas: Many of the Vegas spas are only available to guests of the casino where they are located so plan accordingly. If you need like a good sized relaxation area, try the Wynn. The women's spa has a comfortable lounge with nice sofas and a fireplace. It is joined to the men's spa by a middle "zen" room. I like the design of this spa because it steers away from the cold uber-modern euro style that other spas are taking up. If you do like that style, try THEbathouse. Spa Bellagio has a modern zen feel, and there are long barren hallways between the activity and treatment rooms, but you'll find unique treatments there like the Ashiatsu Therapy where the therapist uses her feet to walk on you or the Watsu massage where you get your treatment in the water. They also cater to bachelorette or private parties. Need a rock climbing fix? Go to Canyon Ranch at the Venetian. They push a lot of people through this spa so if you are looking for a more intimate experience you might want to try a boutique spa like the Palms Spa or Elemis Spa at Aladdin.
Shopping: Via Bellagio and the Wynn Esplanade are the featured shopping highlights if you have a big bankroll (highroller). At the Bellagio you'll find Chanel, Tiffany & Co.,
PRADA and more. Need a new pair of Manolo Blahniks, head over to Wynn. The Esplanade also accommodates branches of Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and la flirt. If you're looking for your favorite stores plus a few purahces that are slightly out of pocket, shop at the Caesars Forum Shops and the Fashion Show Mall (ok to splurge). But if you're looking for bargains, try the Premium Factory Outlets where I-15 meets Charleston Blvd. I also like the stores at Mandalay Place between Mandalay Bay and the Luxor.
