The Life Edit

The Life Edit

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The Life Edit
The Life Edit
THE LAS VEGAS EDIT

THE LAS VEGAS EDIT

Your Guide to a Perfect Weekend in Las Vegas - where to stay, what to eat, and what to wear.

Lindsey Gottschling's avatar
Lindsey Gottschling
May 23, 2025
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The Life Edit
The Life Edit
THE LAS VEGAS EDIT
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When it comes to quick weekend getaways in the U.S., I have a long list of favorites—but Las Vegas consistently makes the cut. The funny thing? I love Vegas for all the wrong reasons. I don’t drink, I don’t gamble, and the earlier the bedtime the better. But when it comes to luxury shopping, unforgettable dining, and world-class entertainment, nobody does it like Vegas.

In this travel edit, I’m sharing my go-to hotels, favorite experiences, and even the stylish shoes that can handle some serious Vegas mileage (because IYKYK).

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My take on the “best hotel” depends heavily on what’s on the itinerary—because while some say the room doesn’t matter if you’re not in it much, I beg to differ. For me, the hotel is part of the experience and these are my favs.

WHERE TO STAY:The Cosmopolitan

Why I Love the Cosmo:
From its unbeatable location to that signature scent when you walk through the doors, the Cosmopolitan nails the vibe. Spacious rooms, stylish decor, and a uniquely upscale-but-unpretentious energy make it a standout.

COSMO HIGHLIGHTS NOT TO MISS:

  • The Chandelier Bar – Sip beneath cascading crystals. Ask for the secret drink—if you know, you know.

  • Eggslut – Grab a gourmet breakfast sandwiches that are worth all the hype (and the wait time). Pro-tip, get the Gaucho.

  • Secret Pizza – No sign, no problem. Just follow your nose to this hidden slice joint, but be prepared to wait in line as it’s not all that secret.

  • Wicked Spoon – A buffet that actually lives up to the buzz—come hungry.

  • Ghost Donkey - Mezcal and Tequila Bar with small bites and the perfect place to start your night.

  • The Party at Superfrico – Dinner + a show, but described as a “full on experience” with burlesque, comedy, and the full Vegas experience.

WHERE TO STAY:The Bellagio

If I had to sum up the Bellagio in two words? “Old money.”
It’s timeless, elegant, and effortlessly luxurious—the kind of place that whispers opulence rather than shouts it. Bellagio nails that classic Vegas magic with just the right touch of extravagance.

BELLAGIO HIGHLIGHTS YOU SHOULDN’T MISS:

  • Sadelle’s – My go-to NYC bagel spot, now in Vegas. Come hungry.

  • The Conservatory – A stunning botanical display you can stroll through on your way to breakfast at Sadelle’s.

  • The Fountain Show – Iconic for a reason. Catch it at night for peak drama.

  • Mayfair Supper Club – Easily one of my top Vegas nights. I shared more about the experience [here]. Part dinner theatre, part comedy, part burlesque, and after 10PM it gets a little naughty.

  • The Vault Speakeasy – Hidden, intimate, and full of Gatsby-level charm.

  • Petrossian Bar – The piano bar with classic cocktails, live music, and all the vintage vibes.

  • “O” by Cirque du Soleil – A must-see show, centered around water. Surreal, stunning, and quintessential Vegas.

WHERE TO STAY:Aria Resort & Casino

If I had to describe Aria in one word? Classy.

It’s effortlessly cool and incredibly well-connected—literally. Linked directly to Park MGM, nestled next to Vdara, and featuring its own tram and tunnel access to both the Cosmopolitan and Bellagio, Aria makes it easy to explore the Strip without ever braving the heat.

Aria Favorites:

  • Carbone – A sleek, spacious outpost of the NYC icon, famous for its spicy rigatoni and a reservation list that’s (thankfully) much easier to crack.

  • Alibi Ultra Lounge – A stylish speakeasy tucked just off the casino floor, perfect for craft cocktails and an upscale vibe.

  • Catch – The Insta-famous seafood-and-steak spot that balances glam with flavor. Come for the flower tunnel entrance, stay for the crispy shrimp and truffle sashimi.

  • Din Tai Fung – The beloved dumpling house lives up to the hype—plus, it’s one of the best casual spots in Aria to share a meal.

  • The Shops at Crystals - the Mecca of luxury retailers all in one place.

WHAT TO DO IN VEGAS:

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