Living in Las Vegas for three months was an eye-opening experience, but ultimately, it wasn't the right place for me. I enjoyed the house I rented, but the city's culture of hustle and bustle didn't appeal to me.
The house I rented was a 2 bedroom 1 bath house in Downtown Las Vegas. The location was not ideal as it was right in the flight path of the helicopters, but the house was great.
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| Master Bedroom |
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| Living room couch where I spent most of my days |
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| Dining area that served as a workspace |
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| Entryway |
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| Guest bedroom (with a cat tail) |
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| Bathroom |
The noise and overwhelming crowds were not my kind of adventure, and I found the gambling world and casinos unappealing. In fact, I only went to the Strip a few times when I had visitors.
Speaking of visitors, it was not just human visitors but the neighborhood cats to loved to walk on my brand new car...
The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, from overpriced drinks to cheesy entertainment, failed to impress me. However, I did enjoy the outskirts of the city more. I visited the Hoover Dam twice—once on a hike and once as part of a bus tour. Both times were pleasant, and I appreciated learning about the dam's history and hiking in the desert landscape.
Exploring the natural surroundings, I went on several hikes and even experienced hot sulfur pools, albeit frequented by people often half-naked. I didn't make any friends during my stay, but I wasn't looking to, perhaps because my mindset was already focused on returning to the East Coast. Maybe I just didn't enjoy Las Vegas in general.
One thing I truly enjoyed was discovering a yoga studio through Groupon. Yoga Sanctuary became my favorite place, where I experienced multiple teachers with different styles. Two teachers stood out, especially a man whose voice was completely enchanting. His classes were always very relaxing and centering, and I found myself looking forward to going to the yoga studio.
Another aspect I liked about Las Vegas was the local grocery stores filled with a variety of fruits and vegetables at low prices. Since I did most of my cooking at home, I only went out or ordered takeout when I had visitors.
Notable places I visited:
1. Reynolds Hall:
Reynolds Hall, located in The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, is a stunning venue that hosts a variety of performances. During my time in Las Vegas, I had the pleasure of attending several events here. One of the highlights was watching the Youth Symphony, which showcased the incredible talent of young musicians in the area. The performance of The Nutcracker was also a memorable experience, bringing a touch of holiday magic to my stay. The elegance and acoustics of Reynolds Hall made every performance a delight.
2. Hoover Dam:
Visiting the Hoover Dam was a fascinating experience. My first visit was part of a bus tour, which provided a comprehensive overview of the dam's history and significance. The sheer scale and engineering marvel of the dam were awe-inspiring. On my second visit, I hiked around the area, taking in the breathtaking views of the Colorado River and the surrounding desert landscape. Both visits offered a different perspective and a deep appreciation for this monumental structure.
3. Local Library Events:
The local libraries in Las Vegas host a variety of events, and I found myself enjoying several of them. One standout event was the Las Vegas Brass Band performance. The band's lively and engaging music added a cultural touch to my stay. The libraries provided a sense of community and an escape from the typical Las Vegas scene.
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| Amazing performance by the Brass Band, sponsored by LV Public Library - free to the public |
4. Stratosphere:
The Stratosphere Tower is an iconic part of the Las Vegas skyline, and visiting it was an unforgettable experience. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert. It was fascinating to see Las Vegas from such a height, providing a different perspective on the bustling city below. The thrill rides at the top of the tower added an adrenaline rush, though I opted to enjoy the views rather than the rides.
I also did some hiking. ere are some of the memorable hikes I embarked on:
Turtlehead Peak Trail in Red Rock Canyon is a challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail, approximately five miles round trip, takes you through rocky terrain and steep ascents. The panoramic views from the summit are simply stunning, offering a sweeping vista of the Las Vegas Valley and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked, but the climb can be strenuous, so it's best for experienced hikers.
Also located in Red Rock Canyon, the Calico Tanks Trail is a moderate hike that spans about 2.5 miles round trip. This trail leads you through vibrant red sandstone formations and narrow canyons, eventually reaching a natural water basin, or "tank." The view of Las Vegas from the top is spectacular, making the effort well worth it. The trail is family-friendly and perfect for those looking for a shorter, scenic hike.
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| This is the turnaround point |
The Ice Box Canyon Trail is a hidden gem in Red Rock Canyon. This 2.6-mile round trip hike takes you into a cool, shaded canyon with high walls and a seasonal waterfall. The trail can be rocky and involves some scrambling, but the serene atmosphere and beautiful rock formations make it a peaceful retreat from the desert heat.
Another Red Rock Canyon favorite, the Pine Creek Canyon Trail, is a moderate 2.9-mile loop that takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush pine forests and rugged desert terrain. The trail follows an old homestead site, adding a touch of history to your hike. It's a great option for those who enjoy a mix of shade and sun along their trek.
Venturing a bit further afield to Death Valley National Park, the Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop via Zabriskie Point is an adventurous hike spanning about 7.8 miles. This trail offers a surreal landscape of golden-hued badlands and dramatic canyon walls. The loop takes you through narrow passages and open plains, providing a unique desert hiking experience. This was probably my favorite hike in the past several years.
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| Amazing archeological adventure here! |
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| Can't really describe the depth of this view, even on a panoramic image |
Also in Death Valley, the Badwater Salt Flats are an otherworldly sight. While not a traditional hike, walking across the expansive salt flats at 282 feet below sea level is a must-do experience. The vast, white landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a mesmerizing and surreal environment. What was special about this hike is that the salt flats were not just flats, but a lake! Once in a lifetime opportunity to see a lake in Death Valley.
7. Railroad Tunnel Trail next to Lake Mead
The Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail near Lake Mead is a fascinating hike that follows an old railroad route used during the construction of the Hoover Dam. This easy, 7.5-mile round trip trail takes you through five massive tunnels and offers stunning views of Lake Mead. It's a great hike for history buffs and those looking for a less strenuous adventure.
The Black Mountain Trail in the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is a challenging 6.8-mile hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley and beyond. The trail is steep and rugged, making it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a strenuous workout and spectacular vistas.
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| Very steep! |
This moderate hike in the Red Rock Canyon area offers a 3-mile loop with diverse scenery, including open desert, rocky passes, and scenic overlooks. The trail is well-marked and provides a pleasant, shorter hike with rewarding views and varied terrain.
The First Creek Canyon Trail is a 3.4-mile round trip hike that leads you to a hidden grotto with a seasonal waterfall. I must say I didn't see any waterfall... The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. The lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere of the grotto provide a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert.
The Arizona Hot Springs Trail near the Hoover Dam is an adventurous 6-mile round trip hike that takes you through a narrow slot canyon to a natural hot spring. The trail involves some scrambling and a ladder climb, but soaking in the hot springs at the end is a rewarding experience. The trail can be challenging, especially in the summer heat, so it's best to go prepared and hydrated.
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The Las Vegas Bay Shoreline Trail offers a serene escape along the edge of Lake Mead, perfect for those seeking a peaceful hike with stunning water views. This easy to moderate 3-mile round trip trail meanders through sandy paths and rocky sections, providing a gentle yet scenic walk. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the contrast of the sparkling blue lake against the desert landscape and spot local wildlife such as birds and lizards. White Owl Canyon is a bit of a hidden gem near Lake Mead, offering a unique and adventurous hiking experience through narrow slot canyons. This moderate 3-mile round trip trail takes you through twisting, towering rock formations that create a maze-like atmosphere. The dramatic canyon walls and the sense of seclusion make it a captivating hike, perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty and geological wonders of the area.
The Rainbow Vista Trail, located in the Valley of Fire State Park, is a vibrant and colorful hike that showcases the stunning geological formations of the area. This easy 1-mile round trip trail leads you through a kaleidoscope of red, pink, and orange sandstone formations, offering spectacular views of the valley. The trail is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset when the rocks seem to glow with rich, warm hues. It's a perfect hike for those looking to experience the unique and breathtaking scenery of the Valley of Fire. The Fire Wave, White Domes, and Seven Wonders Loop is an iconic trail that combines some of the park’s most famous sights into one unforgettable hike. This 3-mile loop trail takes you through a variety of stunning landscapes, including the fiery red and white striped Fire Wave, the dramatic slot canyon of White Domes, and the diverse geological features known as the Seven Wonders. Each section of the trail offers its own unique beauty, making it a must-do hike for anyone visiting the Valley of Fire. The loop provides an excellent mix of color, rock formations, and photographic opportunities, showcasing the park’s natural wonders in all their glory.
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| Nice surprise on the side of the road in the park |
While Las Vegas offered some enjoyable experiences, I realized it wasn't the place for me. I'm now back on the East Coast, ready to settle down and find a community that feels more like home.
