Lighting Up Michigan’s Shores!

7 May 201918 September 2024

Since Michigan has the most lighthouses than any other state in the US, it only made sense to check out a few while we were on vacation. We couldn’t wait to explore The Holland Michigan Lighthouse, Grand Traverse Lighthouse and Old Mission Point Lighthouse.

We made a stop in Holland, Michigan which was the perfect detour on our way to the vacation rental in Traverse City. We strolled the beach and walked the pier while enjoying a cool breeze coming from the lake. We felt renewed after having driven four hours from Ohio watching the sailboats navigate the channel while passing by the lighthouse.

The Holland Harbor Light is known as Big Red by the locals. The lighthouse provides warning to ships and boats as they near the channel. The placard nearby provides an interesting overview of how the Dutch persevered in completing the channel by digging the waterway themselves when government funds ran dry. Access to the lighthouse is limited and is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the middle of the morning to sunset.

Later in the week, I chose to visit The Grand Traverse Lighthouse on Leelanau Peninsula. It was a rainy day and the landscape was exceptionally green. To reach the lighthouse, I had to first pay a fee to enter Leelanau State Park before continuing the coastal drive to the tip of the peninsula.

The lighthouse that stands today was built in the late 1850s. To enter, there is an additional fee in addition to the cost to access the state park. Visitors can reach the top of the lighthouse for spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

Closest to where we were staying, Mission Point Lighthouse is about a 15 minute drive from downtown Traverse City. As we entered Lighthouse Park, we found the parking lot and made our way toward the light with a quick stop at Hessler’s Log Cabin with plans to explore the house on our way back.

What makes Mission Point Light so unique is that it is located along the 45^th parallel which is halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. According to experts, because of its location, this part of the state is optimal for growing grapes which is why Michigan also produces wine. The placard listed a few other locations along the 45^th parallel to include Bordeaux which is famous for its wine production in France.

Built in the late 1850s, the Hessler Log Cabin was once the home of Joseph and Mary Hessler. In the 1950s and 60s, it later became housing for local cherry pickers. The cabin was moved here so that visitors to the lighthouse could learn more about the lives of the first settlers on this peninsula.

Taking the scenic route of M-37, we looked forward to the beautiful drive back to Traverse City. We passed vineyards and cherry orchards before browsing the Old Mission General Store. We had such a great time visiting the Mission Point Lighthouse, but everyone was ready for a stop in Traverse City to order more of their amazing Grand Traverse Pie.

Are there certain attractions that interest you when you vacation? Are you a fan of lighthouses? I would love to hear about additional places to visit, so kindly leave a message in the comments section below!! Many thanks for reading about my trip to the lighthouses near Grand Traverse, Michigan! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Holland Lighthouse (Big Red Lighthouse)
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49423
Telephone: 800 506 1299

Grand Traverse Lighthouse
15500 Lighthouse Point Road
Northpoint, MI 49670
Telephone: 231 386 7195

Old Mission Point Lighthouse
20500 Center Road
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 223 7324

Restaurant Recommendation:

Grand Traverse Pie Company
525 West Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 922 7437

The perfect stop for soup, sandwiches, salads and of course pie!

The Fog Signal Building, Grand Traverse Lighthouse,1899

Beautiful view of Lake Michigan from the grounds of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Another view of the Old Mission Lighthouse, Michigan

Looking out from the Old Mission Lighthouse, Michigan

Inside the Hessler Cabin, Michigan

A Sunday Along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Michigan

30 April 201921 September 2024

The 7.4-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is a part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located off of M-109. The road was built by Pierce Stocking, a local lumberman who spent his childhood exploring the area. Great for driving or biking, the scenic route’s first stop is the Covered Bridge, which was also constructed by Stocking, adding additional charm to the drive.

Along the route are designated numbers that coordinate with the guided tour.

Stop number two is the scenic overlook of Glen Lake. The lake, divided in half by the M-22 bridge, is known as Little Glen to the south and Big Glen Lake to the north. The ridge that runs along the north side of Little Glen is appropriately named Alligator Hill as the outline of the alligator’s long snout can be seen near the bridge, to the right. Can you see it?

The Dune Overlook is our next stop and we exited the car to enjoy the scenic view. Stepping onto the platform, we were surrounded by water and sand. The beautiful blue of Lake Michigan could be mistaken for a Caribbean shoreline endlessly disappearing out into the horizon.

The nearby Cottonwood Trail is a 1.5 mile loop through the sand.

Checkpoint five explains the ecological traits of the dunes including the flora and fauna, the effect of the weather and its soil.

Leaving the sand dunes, we entered the Beech-Maple Forest and an amazing panoramic view greeted us at marker number eight.

The landscape was created by glaciers carving their way through the land, leaving behind scenic inlets and incredible coves.

As our scenic drive was coming to an end, we approached our ninth stop and exited the car. Heading towards the platform, we learned that we were approximately 450 feet above Lake Michigan. Excellent visibility allowed us a gorgeous panoramic view of Sleeping Bear Dune.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive was a great way to spend our Sunday afternoon. In addition to exploring our surroundings, we learned so much about Sleeping Bear Dunes and its beautiful lakeshore.

Have you visited Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore? What activities did you enjoy? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sleeping Bear Dunes
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Empire, MI 49630
Telephone: 231 326 4700

Where to Eat:

Joe’s Friendly Tavern
11015 W. Front Street
Empire, MI 49630
Telephone: 231 326 5506

Michigan is known for its cherries, and this restaurant offered Empire wings sweetened with dark sweet cherries, so I had to try them!

Trailhead for the Cottonwood Trail

Nolan in the sand

Treating Ourselves in Traverse City

23 April 201921 September 2024

Traverse City’s charm is in its shops, restaurants and scenic shoreline. We picked up the local publication, “Northern Express” for the most recent events and up-to-date information. With so many options, we decided first to eat lunch and Grand Traverse Pie Company was our unanimous vote.

Michigan is known for its cherries, so it would only make sense to stop by the Grand Traverse Pie Company for a slice of cherry pie. We were surprised to find over 50 flavors of pie in addition to a few other dessert options.

GT Pie Company’s menu was extensive to include dishes from breakfast to dinner. With a so many great options, we each placed our orders for soups, sandwiches, salads and desserts. Among the eight of us, we decided on the Grand Traverse Chicken Salad, Cherrywood BLT, Chicken Focaccia and Lighthouse Turkey Cheddar Sandwich. The meals were fresh and delicious served with either coleslaw or blueberry applesauce.

Leaving room for dessert, we decided to order their signature Cherry Pie (perfect….not too sweet and not too tart), Blueberry Pie (with a crumble on top), ABC Pie (apple, blueberry and cherry) and Peanut Butter Cups.

Our meals and dessert were amazing so we found ourselves stopping by a couple more times during our vacation, even if it was only to pick up a pie or two.

Another great reason to add Grand Traverse Pie Company to your list of restaurants to visit is that they partner with local farmers for the fruit that goes into their delicious pies. They are also involved in several projects that give back to their community, which makes them pretty amazing. Check out their website to learn more about the charities they sponsor.

Another company that supports local farmers is Cherry Republic. This great store perfectly represents Michigan’s designation as the Cherry Capital of the US. With its humble beginnings to its claim of being the “most exclusive retailer of cherry food creations”, Cherry Republic was a mandatory stop on our tour of downtown Traverse City.

But to be honest, what we couldn’t resist were all of the samples that were available throughout the store . From cherry salsa to cherry chews, cherry wine and cherry sodas, we were in cherry heaven. We left with quite a few souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

The staff were extremely helpful with any questions and suggestions on what to purchase. We left with several products and enjoyed lunch at their wonderful café. I loaded up on the salsa and cider, perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Of course we had to make a second stop because we ran out of chips and cherry salsa midway through the week.

Cherry Republic is a wonderful success story with its start as a t-shirt business in 1989. Branching out to four locations in Michigan, the store sells over 200 types of cherry products. You can read more about the company on their website and revel in their accomplishments, which includes a flourishing catalog and online business as well. Visit their website to place an order or request a catalog.

According to its website, most of Cherry Republic’s produce comes from its own backyard, the Leelanau peninsula. And if that wasn’t enough, the company has established programs that have given back over $600,000 to charitable causes in northern Michigan.

After having lunch at Grand Traverse Pie Company and trying samples at Cherry Republic, we needed some time to walk off the calories. It was such a beautiful day and there were several shops that we found interesting. Downtown Grand Traverse is such a quaint, friendly town and we stopped by the Visitor’s Center for a map and suggestions on what to see while we were here.

One of my favorite places to visit was Nest. Described as a home interiors and furnishings boutique, we enjoyed all of the designs and merchandise on display. The décor is said to be “Up North Chic” and “Modern Cottage” and I loved all of the unique home goods and decorations.

Not only are the products fabulous, but the building in itself is artistic and appealing. The original brick walls display the fabulous artwork and the refurbished 1800’s tin ceiling was absolutely stunning.

What we love about Nest is that they have an online store. With so many great products, this is the perfect way to shop from home and search for updated items for your home. Just visit their website.

Michigan’s Traverse City is a great way to see the local flavors of Michigan as well as to taste them. If you have already visited this beautiful part of Michigan and want to bring back some of those fabulous memories, shop the online stores of Grand Traverse Pie Company, Cherry Republic and Nest. You can also check out “Traverse City in a Box” for additional selections as well.

If you have visited Traverse City or Grand Traverse, Michigan, what were some of your most memorable moments? Did you try some of the state’s local offerings? I would love to hear what you would suggest the next time we visit Michigan if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my adventures in Traverse City, Michigan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Grand Traverse Pie Company
525 West Front STreet
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 922 7437

Cherry Republic
154 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 932 9205

Nest of Grand Traverse
218 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 946 0232

Where to Eat:

amical
929 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 941 8888

It was time for lunch and I wanted something light to tie me over for dinner. The French Onion soup with Jumbo Lump Crab Meat was a perfect combination. The crabcakes were served with a sweet chili aioli sauce which had a little heat so I needed a nice local Pinot Grigio from Good Harbor Winery in Leland, Michigan.

What to Eat:

Bell’s Oberon beer
Blueberries
Boston Cooler – ginger ale and vanilla ice cream float
Cherries
Chipati – salad made of lettuce, mushrooms, cheese and peppers stuffed in a pita
Cider and Doughnuts
Cudhigi – spicy Italian sandwich
Deep Dish Pizza
Detroit Street Brick – aged goat’s milk cheese and green peppercorns
Double Baked Rye Bread
Faygo Pop
Hot Fudge Cream Puffs
Mackinac Island Fudge
Packzi (pronounced Punch-key) – Polish donut stuffed with jam
Pasty – hand made pies filled with meat
Whitefish

What to Read:

Blameless; A Novel, by Lisa Reardon
Two, Two Lily-White Boys, by Geoffrey Clark

Photo Guide to Traverse City:

Bijou by the Bay movie theater
Cherries
Cherry Bowl Drive In
Gallagher’s Farm Market Produce and Barn
Glen Haven Beach at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Grand Traverse Pie Company
Lads Winery
North Bar Lake at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Tall Ships along the Lake
Vineyards of Black Star Farms

Entering Grand Traverse Pie Company

Peanut Butter Cup Dessert, Grand Traverse Pie Company

One of the many delicious pies we ordered from Grand Traverse Pie Company! Is that the state of Michigan in the center?

Fun With Kids in Traverse City, Michigan

16 April 201921 September 2024

Traverse City, Michigan is a wonderful place to vacation with family. There is an abundance of kid-friendly activities and the weather is perfect during the summer months.

I picked up Traverse City’s Top 10 Adventures pamphlet to review the attractions that we could plan with a two-year old. Although most of the activities revolved around water sports, we found an adventure park where we could play putt-putt called Pirate’s Cove. Arrgh!

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park provides so many fun, family-oriented options for children and adults of all ages. In addition to miniature golf, the park also has a ropes course, zipline, go carts and a water coaster.

We paid our admission fee, picked up our clubs and headed to hole number 1. It was so much fun watching my nephew play for the first time. He was so excited when he would hit the ball and then run ahead of us to tee off at the next hole. It was such a great way to spend our afternoon and Nolan enjoyed the pirate scenes and waterfall.

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park opened in Traverse City in 1983 and have over 20 locations throughout Michigan, Florida and South Dakota. I was impressed with their Putting for Patriots Program which raises money to assist wounded military members and their families. The annual fund raising event takes place each May and more information can be found on their website at www.PiratesCove.com.

After working up an appetite on the golf course, we checked out Moomers Homemade Ice Cream. Moomers is a family owned shop conveniently located on a dairy farm. The shop first opened in 1998 and now serves over 160 flavors. It was recently voted as “Best Ice Cream Shop in America” by Good Morning America.

From cones to sundaes to milkshakes and wedding cakes, Moomers offers a wide selection of ice cream products. We ordered strawberry ice cream with sprinkles and hot fudge sundaes.

Moomers also provides tours of their ice cream facility over the summer months. For a small fee, there is an Ice Cream Store Tour or the Dairy Farm Tour to learn more about how their ice cream is made.

Across the street from downtown Traverse City is a harbor with boat slips and a pier. It was a beautiful day and the weather was going to be perfect for our trip to the beach.

Before finding a place on the sand, we noticed a small waterscape within walking distance from the beach. It was so precious to watch my nephew play in the water. He was enjoying every minute of it.

The waterscape was named after long time governor, William G. Millikan who was interested in conserving the natural resources of the area. The water park is one of a few proposed enhancements that are planned for the Bayfront development of Clinch Park. Opened between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, the revitalization is an effort to attract more young families to the downtown area.

What are some of the activities that you look for when planning a kid-friendly vacation? Can you recommend other kid-friendly things to do in Traverse City? I would love to hear about them if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about kid-friendly things to do in the Traverse City area. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park
1710 U.S. 31
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 938 9599

Admission Fee: The Original Course and Blackbeard’s Challenge are $9.50 for adults for children ages 4 – 12 are $8.50. Kids 3 and under play for free. Check the website for token prices which are used for the attractions such as go-carts, ropes course, bumper carts and kiddie go carts.
Hours: Seasonal, so check out the company’s website for the most up to date information
Amenities: Adventure golf, ropes challenge course, go-carts, bumper cars, and game room.
Length of Visit: 1 – 3 hours, depending on the activities purchased

Moomer’s
7263 N. Long Lake Road
Traverse City, MI 49685
Telephone: 231 941 4122

Hours: Daily from 11AM to 9PM through December 24; check the website for the most up-to-date hours
Length of Visit: 1 hour

William G. Millikan Waterscape
Downtown Harbor
Traverse City, MI

Where to Stay:

Bayshore Resort
833 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 935 4400

Where to Eat:

Grand Traverse Pie Company
525 West Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 922 7437

We had eaten here several times during our stay in Traverse City and each of the meals I selected were amazing. I enjoyed the Reuben Sandwich as well as the Manitou made of Michigan turkey, bacon, ham, Swiss cheese, tomato and pesto mayonnaise served on whole wheat. The sandwiches are served with a side and pickle.

What to Eat:

The Coney Dog from Detroit, Jackson or Flint.
Vernor’s Ginger Ale
Founded in the Upper Peninsula, the pasty is a pastry pocket with fruit filling
Mackinac Island Fudge
Apples
Cherries
Detroit Style Pizza shaped in a rectangle and baked until the edges are crispy.
Better Made Chips from Detroit
Germack Pistachios
Walleye Fish from the Great Lakes
Faygo beverages

What to Read:

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Eight Mile High by Jim Ray Daniels
The Dollmaker by Harriette Arnow
The Glass Highway by Loren D. Estleman

Photo Guide for Traverse City:

Black Star Farm Vineyards
Glen Haven Beach at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park
Grand Traverse Pie Company pies
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
North Bar Lake at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park
Tall Ships along the coast
The vineyards at 2 Lads Winery

Wining Down in Old Mission, Michigan

9 April 201921 September 2024

Did you know that Michigan is not only known for its production of cherries, but also its wine? I took the day to explore the Old Mission region of Michigan to visit their wineries and started my afternoon at Black Star Farms.

Black Star Farms has three tasting rooms located near Traverse City and two wine processing facilities. I browsed through the charming gift shop to wait for a space at the tasting bar in search of a wine to bring back home.

Sparkling Fruit Wine: Black Star Farms Hard Apple Cherry Cider: Bubbly with crisp apple & cherry; $12 per bottle
Fruit and Sweet Wine: 2013 Arcturos Late Harvest Riesling, Rich apricot, pear and honeysuckle notes $17.50 per bottle
Sweet Red Wine: Artisan – Fruit driven with very soft tannins; $13.50 per bottle
Dessert Wine: Sirius Raspberry Dessert Wine – excellent!!! $27.50 per bottle
Dry White Wine: 2013 Arcturos Pinot Noir Rose: Bright & fresh berry fruit notes; $13.50 per bottle
Dry Red Wine: 2012 Arcturos Pinot Noir, peppery; bright berry nose delicately touched with spicy oak; $25.00
2012 Vintners Select: Rich dark fruit flavors and a hint of cocoa and spice $25.00
2012 Arcturos Cabernet Franc: Raspberry & blackberry with herbal spicy oaks $28.50 per bottle

Recommended: Red House Red – fruit driven with layered flavors and hints of oak; $14.50 per bottle

A Premium Flight included 5 wines from the regular list, 1 from the Reserve List and a complimentary wine glass. There were quite a few wine selections from which to choose. A Reserve Tasting included 2 selections of their more expensive wines for $5. For $5, Black Star Farms offered a sample of their dessert wine. I decided on trying their Ice Wine Sample Tasting for $5, which included the 2013 A Capella Ice Wine. The grapes for this wine were frozen on the vine and then picked and immediately pressed. This process results in an extremely concentrated dessert wine exploding with the flavors of ripe fruit, exotic flowers and subtle spices. It could be purchased for $92.50 per bottle.

Before continuing on to my next winery, I realized it would be best if I ordered something to eat at Black Star Farms’ Hearth & Vine Cafe and decided on the Arugula Pizza. While I would have preferred to have ordered the Cured Meats and Aged Cheese Board, the serving size would have been more than enough food for at least two guests.

Driving further north on the Old Mission Wine Trail, I found another highly recommended winery, the Chateau Chantal. Charming wine barrels posed at the entrance and fabulous views of the vineyard from the tasting room added to the experience of tasting some of the best wines Michigan has to offer.

I was greeted by the Sommelier (pronounced So-Mo-Yare), who recommended a few wines after learning that I love the dry reds and fruity locals. For only $3 I had the option to choose five wines or for the same price I could have opted for the pre-designed flight. The wines I chose included: Proprietor’s Reserve Cabernet Franc, Naughty Apple Michigan Hard Cider (new), Cherry Wine, Last Harvest Riesling and Nice Red.

At the time of my tasting, there were twenty-four wines as well as six brandies and dessert wines. My first choice was the Proprietor’s Reserve Cabernet Franc 2012 retailing at $26 per bottle. It was described as “rich with red berry flavors and is robust but not aggressive”. My next selection was a new product listed as a semi dry wine, the Naughty Apple Michigan Hard Cider. It was created from Michigan Golden Delicious and Gala apples. It was such a light tasting wine and not as dry as I had expected. I bought a bottle to enjoy that evening which cost me only $12.

Wine Sample number three was Cherry Wine, which was appropriate as Michigan is the Cherry Capitol of the Nation. I had to buy a bottle of this to enjoy at a later date, especially for hanging out by the pool on a hot day. This wine was another great buy for only $10. The winery suggests having this wine with pork, chicken, beef, salads and sunny days.

Before ending my tasting with the Nice Red, I selected the Late Harvest Riesling ($16). I was drawn to this wine by the description it was given…it is “sweet, but it has something a lot of sweet wines don’t have – acidity to give it backbone and structure. The nose is lively lime, honeysuckle & Gala apples. The palate is light-bodied but the fruit & acidity are lively & the sugar & alcohol give a little viscosity to it”. They suggest drinking this wine with spicy Asian dishes and fruited desserts.

My last wine was the Nice Red ($10), which was served chilled. It is a “fruity, semi-sweet wine made from a blend of the first red grapes.” It was an excellent selection to round out my tasting and I learned that it could be served with most any type of food…I had to buy a bottle. Three fabulous wines for just a little over $30.

I was sad to leave Chateau Chantal, but I had made plans for lunch. Just as customary with most wineries, the venue can be rented out for special occasions and events. In addition there is a bed and breakfast on the grounds, perfect for a long weekend stay.

What do you think of the wineries in Michigan? I would love to hear your recommendations or to hear about your experience at Black Star Farms or Chateau Chantal. Please leave a message below in the comments section. Many thanks for reading about my visit to some of the amazing wineries in Michigan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Black Star Farms
360 McKinley Road
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 944 1270

Hours of operation are seasonal, so check out the website to confirm when the winery is open.

Visit the Heart and Vine cafe for simple meals which are absolutely delicious!

Chateau Chantal
15900 Rue de Vin
Traverse City, MI 49686
Telephone: 231 223 4110

Hours of operation are seasonal, visit the website to confirm when the winery is open.

The Vineyard at Black Star Farms

The Wine Press at Chateau Chantal

The Aria Hotel in Las Vegas

2 April 201921 September 2024

The Aria Resort and Casino was featured on a recent episode of The Bachelor…okay, so I admit that the show is one of my guilty pleasures….

As we approached the casino entrance into the ARIA, it was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, modernistic hotels I had seen in Las Vegas. As a matter of fact, the ARIA is considered the most sophisticated of accommodations in all of Vegas. Built in association with the City Center, this elegant casino and resort boasts some of the best restaurants inspired by some of the most influential chefs in the world!

What makes the resort so unique is its use of technology. Each hotel room or “smart room”, is equipped with curtains, lights and thermostats that adjust to regulate the use of energy depending on whether the guest is inside or outside of the room.

There are 4,004 hotel rooms at the ARIA making it the 9^th largest hotel in the world. The casino at the ARIA is the only one located at CityCenter.

There are 16 restaurants and 10 bars and clubs in the hotel. I have to admit my favorite place in the hotel is the Jean Philippe Patisserie with its decadent desserts and confections. I could spend the day here, but unfortunately, I would probably feel sorry for it later. The designs and artistry of each creation are decadent as well as mesmerizing. And if you find that you will not be able to visit the Patisserie anytime soon, you can always visit their website at jpchocolates.com. But I will warn you, you will be tempted to order, so have your credit card ready!

The resort opened in 2009 as the largest and tallest of all of CityCenter’s structures. With its eccentric décor, one could mistakenly feel as though he was in the Land of Oz. It is comprised of two glass towers that are each 61 stories tall.

There is a theater that accommodates 1,800 spectators for the Cirque du Soleil show, Zarkana replacing Viva Elvis which paid tribute to The King of Rock and Roll. What remains as an homage to Elvis is the Gold Lounge, taking on the décor and design of Elvis’ famous Memphis home, Graceland.

Since its opening, ARIA has also been featured in modern day film and television. From Last Vegas to The Amazing Race, you may recognize the unique structure of one of Las Vegas’ most recent resorts. Of course, that is, if you are not an avid “Bachelor” fan. But not to worry, I am certain that there will be more exposure for ARIA in the years to come. It is a resort experience that must not be kept secret!

The ARIA is located at 3730 Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas. For more information about the hotel and casino, visit their website at www.aria.com.

Have you stayed or visited a fabulous resort that you recommended to all of your friends and colleagues? I would love to hear about it in the comments below! Happy Travels!

More photos of the Aria Hotel

Las Vegas: New York-New York

26 March 201921 September 2024

Las Vegas’ New York-New York Hotel is a perfect example of east meets west. With a fascinating façade of the New York Skyline, Vegas’ strip resort is full of all things that represent one of the greatest cities in the world.

The architecture includes a replica of the Empire State Building as well as the Chrysler Building. Quite noticeable is the 150 foot tall reproduction of the Statue of Liberty as well as various monuments and museums from The Big Apple. Grand Central Terminal and the Main Immigration Building located on Ellis Island are also represented in the façade.

Throughout the hotel are many landmarks that originally reside in NYC. For example, the Brooklyn Bridge is set outside of the hotel and inside, there are various sections of the resort that are named after the city’s neighborhoods and attractions. Take some time to browse the shops in Greenwich Village.

One of the main attractions of Vegas’ New York-New York hotel is its roller coaster. It passes inside and outside of the resort with coaster cars that take after the original Checker Cabs of New York City. The coaster reaches speeds of up to 67 miles per hour with its maximum drop totaling 144 feet.

New York-New York is home to the Cirque du Soleil production of Zumanity. It is important to note that the show is restricted to admission of those persons 18 and over. The resort also hosts headline acts such as Garth Brooks and provides scheduled entertainment at the Brooklyn Bridge.

The New York-New York Hotel & Casino offers a wide variety of attractions, shows and gambling opportunities. It is conveniently located on the Vegas Strip at 3790 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information about the hotel, visit the resort’s website at newyorknewyork.com.

Are you a frequent traveler to Las Vegas or live in the area? Which hotels do you recommend? And if you have been to Vegas’ New York-New York Hotel, what is your opinion of the hotel or how was your experience staying here? I would love to hear from you! Happy travels!

The Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas

19 March 201921 September 2024

Images reflecting off of the canopy, screaming teens riding the zip-line, and stages of entertainment on the outstreets of Fremont Street summed up my Fremont Street Experience in the Old Town of Las Vegas.

It was a short distance for our hotel where we picked up the shuttle for Old Las Vegas. Dave and I grabbed a seat on the local city bus and within fifteen minutes we had arrived. Fremont Street spans four blocks with casinos, buffet specials and bars on each side. Three stages provide live music and we were excited to take in the tunes of the Beatles with look-a-like musicians dressed up as John, Paul, Ringo and George. The electric atmosphere and intimate space differs than the wide open spaces of Las Vegas Boulevard and the prices were less expensive as well.

We enjoyed our time strolling the old strip where historical casinos have existed since the early 1900s. The Golden Gate & Casino Hotel, once known as the “Hotel Nevada” was the first casino in Las Vegas, built in 1906. More casinos would soon follow in the early 1930’s and Vegas’ gambling industry would grow over the next few years. People continue to visit the Golden Gate with a bit of nostalgia, but most will stop by for their cheap shrimp cocktails and best odds of winning.

The Fremont Hotel & Casino opened in 1956 and was the first high rise to be built in Las Vegas and was considered to be the tallest building in the whole state of Nevada. This hotel makes up one of the “four corners” located at the crossroads of Casino Center Boulevard and Fremont Street. It is here where Wayne Newton made his Las Vegas debut in 1959.

Fascinated with the crime show, “Snapped” I had somewhat of a morbid interest in the Ted Binion case. Strolling the slots of Binion’s Gambling Hall and Casino I thought of the episode in which Ted Bunion was allegedly killed by his girlfriend and her lover. The indictment would eventually be overturned in 1998.

The hotel first opened in 1951 under the name of the Horseshoe Club and was owned by the Binion family until 2004. Poker players will recognize this building as the venue of the annual World Series of Poker which began in 1970. The hotel portion of Binion’s was closed in 2009.

The Golden Nugget was completed in 1946 and is said to be the largest of the downtown casinos. With close to 2,500 rooms and suites, it is known as the first building built as a casino from the ground up. The resort’s famed attraction is the 960 ounce gold nugget called the “Hand of Faith” and is on display inside.

Whether it is the Fremont Street Experience or the endless wandering among the Fremont Street casinos, visitors leave the strip to explore Old Vegas made famous by the Rat Pack. A trip to “Glitter Gulch” is an experience of unusual dimensions. Given this nane due to the number of neon signs, many of the originals have since retired and can be found refurbished in the Neon Museum exhibit.

The most famous of the neon signs on Fremont Street is Vegas Vic. With his cowboy boots and cigarette, it is one of the most prominent of all figures representing Las Vegas. The number of lights can be overwhelming yet its animation is entertaining.

Classic movies such as Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas”, the James Bond film “Diamonds are Forever” and the 1997 comedy “Vegas Vacation” will forever memorialize the original Las Vegas. What an amazing Strip of history.

Do you prefer the atmosphere of “Old Vegas” or “The Strip?” I would love to hear your opinion, so please leave your comments below! Many thanks for joining me on my Fremont Street Experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Fremont Street Experience

Golden Gate & Casino Hotel
1 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 1906

The Fremont Hotel & Casino
200 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 3232

Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel
128 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 382 1600

The Golden Nugget
129 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 7111

Where to Stay:

Harrah’s
3475 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 800 214 9110

Where to Eat:

Golden Gate for its cheap shrimp cocktails!

What to Eat:

Anything! Las Vegas has it all!

What to Read:

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, by Hunter S. Thompson
Leaving Las Vegas, by John O’Brien

Photo Guide for Las Vegas:

“Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign
The Paris Hotel Entrance and Eiffel Tower
The Luxor Walkway and Sphinx
The Excalibur Hotel
New York New York Hotel
The Arc de Triomphe at the Paris Hotel
The Eiffel Tower view from the Bellagio
The Bellagio Fountains and its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Rose Covered Entrance to the Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio
The Linq Promenade with views of the High Roller and Inside the High Roller
The Venetian Stairs and Lobby
Gondola Ride at the Venetian
The Venetian Bridge
The Stairs at Wynn Las Vegas
Neon Museum signs
Fremont East District sign
Retro Vegas Sign
Abbey Road
The Empty Club
Fremont District Murals
Red Rock Canyon’s Red Rocks and Joshua Trees
Valley of Fire State Park – Slot Canyon, Fire Wave, Mouse Tank Road, Pastel Pink Canyon
Seven Magic Mountains
Mrs. Coco’s Cafe (book in advance)
Hoover Dam
Canyon West (about 2 hours from Vegas)

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The Flamingo Las Vegas

12 March 201921 September 2024

If casinos could talk, the Flamingo Las Vegas would have a few great stories to tell. One of the oldest resorts first built on the strip, I can’t imagine all of the celebrities that have passed under its pink peacock lights in the last century.

Billy Wilkerson, a real estate developer and nightclub owner, wanted to open a luxury hotel that would rival the European resorts that offered extravagant amenities. When the development came under financial difficulty, it was notorious mobster, Bugsy Siegel who would financially contribute to the project which first opened in 1946. In total, the Flamingo would cost a total of $6 million.

Unfortunately, Wilkerson signed a deal with the devil and when Siegel’s investment was slow at producing a profit, it would end up costing Siegel his life. He was gunned down in the summer of 1947.

The hotel changed hands and names over the next few years and the famous flamingos were a main attraction. There is also a wildlife habitat with a koi pond, adding to the hotel’s tropical theme. Jimmy Buffett opened his trademark Margaritaville restaurant at the Flamingo and and expanded the franchise to include the Margaritaville mini-casino.

Various acts have come and gone at the Flamingo, but as of this writing, Donny and Marie Osmond and Olivia Newton John were the headliners.

The Flamingo Las Vegas fades in comparison to the newly designed luxury hotels, but its attraction is its history in the life of Las Vegas. It is also famous as the location of some great films such as Ocean’s 11 starring such Rat Pack members as Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Junior. Bugsy, a film about the life of Bugsy Siegel was also shot on location at The Flamingo.

Do you have any great memories of visiting The Flamingo or watching some of the great oldies films where the Flamingo appears in the movie? I would love to hear about your experience at The Flamingo Las Vegas if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Flamingo Las Vegas is located at 3555 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas. For more information about Flamingo Las Vegas, visit the property’s website at www.caesars.com/flamingo-las-vegas.

What are some of your favorite stories about The Flamingo? I would love to hear about them if you would leave your comments below. Happy Travels!

Waterfall at the Flamingo Las Vegas

The Bellagio, Las Vegas

5 March 201921 September 2024

I clearly remember the first time I stood in amazement of The Bellagio was when a friend of mine brought us here for dinner. He had just married a couple of months ago at this stunning, luxury resort and shared photos of their extravagant wedding celebration. Of course, he spared no expense, so the photos of their wedding were beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

I eventually had the opportunity to make my own memories at the Bellagio during a New Years’ celebration with another dear friend this year and found myself basking in the beauty of its opulence and luxury. Located along the strip, the Bellagio is one of the most luxurious resorts of Las Vegas.

We tried to find a seat at Lago by Julian Serrano which provides excellent views of the famous Fountains of the Bellagio. Unfortunately, we had arrived too late, and settled for a gorgeous view along the 8-acre lake, reminiscent of Italian lakeside village.

As crowds congregated along the sidewalk, the thousand theatrical fountains began their show to the tune of a classical Italian opera, both elegant and spectacular.

Entering the lobby of the resort, we admired the glass flowers of world renowned artist, Dale Chihuly. The sculpture, hanging from the ceiling, is made of over 2000 handblown blossoms. Named the Fiori Di Como, the effervescent colors seem to come to life as the sunlight radiates through the glass and windows from the rooftop.

The Bellagio’s Gallery of Fine Art and the lavish Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden are additional glamorous features of the hotel on display for guests and visitors.

I had my heart set on a confection from Jean Philippe Patisserie but when we arrived, we were so overwhelmed by the many choices that we decided on a café mocha for an afternoon boost. We promised ourselves that we would save room after dinner which would leave us plenty of time to decide on which sweet decadence would satisfy our craving. Did I happen to notice some wedding cakes in the corner?

Because Peter had not seen Cirque du Soleil’s “O” performance, he booked tickets for us for the evening show. The first time I had visited Vegas, my former boss had purchased tickets and I was mesmerized by the performance and more astonished by the price. The show continues to be one of the most sought after shows in Vegas, but we were so excited to share this experience together.

Soon the show would begin and since we were dressed and ready to go, we enjoyed a happy hour drink at Hyde Bellagio. The swanky, upscale lounge is also a perfect location to watch the Bellagio fountains, and reminds me of a set used for a Victoria’s Secret photo shoot. Surrounded by gigantic mirrors, chandeliers with suspended flowers and Mediterranean furniture, we took a seat close to the balcony.

The evening could not have been more perfect ending with a return visit to Jean Philippe for gelatos and walking the upscale promenade of shops. The show was phenomenal, dinner was indulgent, drinks were relaxing and the company was incredibly charming. It was a fairytale day at the Italian lake of Vegas.

Have you visited the Bellagio? I would love to hear your thoughts about this opulent hotel and casino, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 888 987 6667

Where to Stay:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 888 987 6667

Where to Eat:

Jean Philippe Patisserie
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109

UPDATE: The Jean Philippe Patisserie is now closed.

Photo Credit: Hyde Bellagio provided by The Bellagio