It’s almost that time of year, folks, when BYU Football is back and the world is all right. The Cougars will play the Arizona Wildcats at the first Vegas Kickoff Classic on Labor Day Weekend at the new Allegiant Stadium (home of the Las Vegas Raiders).
We reached out to longtime friend of Cougars on Cougars and longtime Las Vegas resident Pat Hammond (aka @crzycougfanatic) for suggestions on things to do and dining in the area as we know many of you do are using the long weekend to support BYU.
Let us know in the comments when you travel to Sin City, whether you want to do or eat any of the things recommended in the article, or if you have any additional suggestions! (DISCLAIMER: We are still in the midst of a global pandemic. We made the suggestions, but please don’t blame us when places are closed, different hours, masks are required, etc.)
Things to do:
- Area 15 “Mega-Mart” – “AREA15 is an immersive playground, all in one huge and lively space. Throw an ax, hike a bamboo volcano, zip through a zip line, or explore other fascinating realms. From futuristic to exciting, there is something for everyone here. ”I haven’t been there, but I’ve heard it’s great and very unique.
- SeaQuest Las Vegas – Great for families. Boulevard Mall attraction with an aquarium with sharks and stingrays as well as birds and small animals. Be sure to purchase food to feed the stingrays and other animals. Children are $ 11.95 and adults are $ 17.95. Looking for a Groupon for discounts or if you are here several days, check out the Las Vegas Pogo Pass, which costs $ 40 for Groupon and gives you access to several attractions around the city, including the Children’s Museum which is also great . SeaQuest is the perfect size, not too big to ride all day but big enough that you feel like you’ve seen something you don’t see every day.
- Resorts world – Newest hotel, you can walk around and see shops and there are restaurants.
Bonus promotion – BYU FanFest – At the Craig Ranch Regional Park from 6pm to 8pm on Fri. Sept. 3, “Fans have the opportunity to take photos with Cosmo and the BYU Cheer Squad. There will also be face painting, balloon artists, bouncy castles and food trucks. The BYU store and the BYU concessions will be present. “
Places to eat:
- Yama sushi – The best you can eat sushi. The one at 3909 Spring Mountain is what Pat recommends.
- BabyStacks – Six locations in the city. Best pancakes with every taste you can think of. Red Velvet, Bananas Foster, German Chocolate, also omelets. Crepes. Call ahead to find out about food in the restaurant.
- Eddie’s Mexican restaurant – This is run by the family who worked at Macayo. Same great food, different name. Try a TCT, a giant toasted cheese tortilla, or try something with the Baja Sauce, a creamy white sauce to bathe in. So delicious.
A note from Mary and Jess: Our OG fans may still remember that in 2017 we did an “Along the Trail” segment for Las Vegas with Jess’s Aunt Lavinia. If you’re in the mood for a look back, check out this episode here. Otherwise, we did the grunt job for you, and here are the Vegas recommendations Lavinia made …
Do: Check out the downtown arts district. Start in Ogden or Stewart and head to 6th or 7th Avenue to see a variety of wall art that is constantly changing. Check out this ‘First Friday’ event on Fri September 3 in conjunction with it. Visit the Bellagio Gardens! Thousands upon thousands of beautiful, seasonal flowers – for free!
Eat: Pinkbox donuts. It’s open 24 hours so they’re always fresh. Try the fat Elvis. BabyStacks (if you’re careful, that’s a double recommendation so make sure to check this place out! Jess tried it out too and can only recommend it.)
