Top 5 Must Do's in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada attracts millions of people each year, each one with his or her own agenda for time spent in Sin City. In the end, though, there are five “must do” tasks for anyone spending time amidst the glitter and neon:

1. Take a Dip

The hotels of Las Vegas have been at the forefront of the pool-lounge trend, and almost every resort now has its own version. Wet Republic at MGM Grand is one of the hottest parties going right now, with Bare at The Mirage and Sunday's Rehab at the Hard Rock Hotel also on the must-see list. Bring a swimsuit, but don't bring the kids; the pool parties are strictly 21-and-over affairs. For family-friendly pool areas, try Circus Circus at the north end of the Vegas Strip.

2. See a Show

The nightly entertainment menu in Las Vegas is as diverse as one could imagine. Whether it be family-friendly comedy act like Terry Fator at the Mirage, a modified Broadway show like Phantom at the Venetian or risqué fare such as Peepshow, the topless revue at Planet Hollywood, it's hard not to find a show to see on the Strip. If nothing else, Cirque du Soleil has become the go-to production company, now with six different shows at six different casinos.

3. Dance, Dance, Dance

Las Vegas did not invent the nightclub, but with the millions of dollars available for theme designs and renovations, Sin City may have perfected it. Tryst and XS at the Wynn and Encore, respectively, are two of the hottest clubs on the strip, while Body English at Hard Rock and Rain at Palms are two great options off Las Vegas Boulevard. Be forewarned, though: If you're not one of the young, beautiful or wealthy, lines get long as the evening progresses and drinks are never cheap.

4. Eat

With celebrity chefs and international influences, Las Vegas is a culinary delight for every type of traveler. Whether the desired menu involves tornadoes of aged lamb at Picasso in the Bellagio or the 99-cent Shrimp Cocktail at the Golden Gate Casino downtown, there is cuisine for every budget.

5. Gamble

The north end of the Strip (Stratosphere, Slots-o-Fun) tends to have the lowest minimums, with ritzier casinos like the Bellagio and the Wynn requiring larger minimum bets. Upon entering almost any hotel in Las Vegas, you'll be forced to endure the ringing bells and buzzers of a casino. Whether you're a nickel slot lover or craps shooter, you're sure to find your game of choice.