Pride Journey: Las Vegas
By Joey Amato
Las Vegas, known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, embraces LGBTQ culture with open arms,
making it a thriving hub for the community. Iconic events like the annual Las Vegas Pride Parade and
Festival bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and unity. Las Vegas Pride is
typically in early October, so start planning now. The city's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the diverse range of LGBTQ-friendly accommodations, ensuring that visitors feel welcome and respected.
Beyond the nightlife, Las Vegas hosts a variety of LGBTQ-focused community organizations, support groups, and cultural events that contribute to the rich tapestry of the city's inclusive ethos. Whether
exploring the famous entertainment offerings or participating in community-driven initiatives, LGBTQ
individuals and allies alike find a warm and accepting home in the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ culture in
Las Vegas. Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to stay at Bellagio. Its iconic foundations have fascinated me for decades. The hotel stands as an epitome of luxury and sophistication, offering an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends opulence, entertainment, and fine dining. From
the moment you step into the grand lobby, it's evident that Bellagio is committed to providing a world class stay, especially when you glance at the ceiling adorned with Chihuly glass sculptures.
I stayed in a recently renovated room in the Spa Tower with an unobstructed view of the Vegas strip
and the fountains. The attention to detail is evident in the tasteful decor, plush furnishings, and modern
amenities. Beginning at 3 p.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends, the choreographed water show set
against the backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip is a mesmerizing display of artistry, combining music, light,
and water in perfect harmony. It sets the tone for the exquisite experiences that await within
Bellagio. Bellagio is also home to the famous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis that
undergoes seasonal transformations, displaying stunning floral displays and thematic installations. This
botanical escape provides a serene contrast to the lively atmosphere of the casino and the bustling Strip. During our stay, the staff was completing its new Springtime exhibition, which gave us Alice in
Wonderland vibes. For those seeking entertainment, Bellagio offers the spectacular "O"
by Cirque du Soleil, a water-themed extravaganza that complements the hotel's overall theme. Bellagio
Gallery of Fine Art is another cultural gem within the hotel, featuring rotating exhibitions that display
masterpieces from around the world. Although it is possible to never leave the hotel, we wanted to
experience other MGM Resorts properties, so we headed to LPM at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for
dinner. LPM offers an exquisite dining experience that effortlessly marries Mediterranean charm with
the vibrant energy of the Strip. From the moment you step through the entrance, you are greeted by an
ambiance that strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and conviviality. LPM's interior is a visual feast, adorned with chic decor, warm lighting, and an intimate atmosphere. The combination of contemporary design elements and classic French accents creates a welcoming space that feels both
elegant and comfortable. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or seeking a romantic
dinner, LPM's ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. LPM's menu is a culinary triumph, highlighting the rich and diverse flavors of the French Riviera. The emphasis on fresh,
high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish. We began our meal with a variety of appetizers,
including the Yellowtail Carpaccio, Escargots, and an signature Burrata prepared with heritage
tomatoes and basil and topped with white truffles. For our main courses, we decided to focus on
seafood entrees, so we tried the Lobster Risotto and grilled Chilean Bass. Both were prepared to
perfection and paired very well together if you are looking to share entrées.
Of course, one of the biggest attractions of Las Vegas is the strip itself. Spend a few hours
meandering through each hotel and taking in the Vegas vibe. There is no other place in the
world quite like it. If you are in the mood for a little adventure, head to Area15,
located about 10 minutes from the strip. Area15 is an immersive entertainment complex that blends
art, technology, and entertainment in a unique and captivating way. Boasting an otherworldly exterior
and a dynamic interior, Area15 is home to a variety of innovative experiences, including interactive
art installations and virtual reality adventures. Its anchor tenant, the Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, is a
surreal supermarket-like environment filled with mind-bending art and hidden mysteries. The venue
also hosts concerts and live events including Beyond Brunch, a varietyshow hosted by drag queen
extraordinaire Andrew Ryan. The two-hour spectacle includes a wonderful buffet and performances
by talented acts ranging from hoop dancers to Cirque-style entertainers. The show is well worth the price of admission; it is not your typical drag brunch.
Spend the afternoon touring Area15 or head to The Sphere, Las Vegas’ newest concert venue. Rock
icons U2 opened the venue with a 40-night run, but guests can purchase tickets to Darren
Aronofsky's multisensory film Postcard from Earth.
For a trip down memory lane, especially if you are in you were born in the ‘70s or ‘80s, check out Retro
by Voltaggio at Mandalay Bay. The restaurant owned by Top Chef stars, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, takes diners on a nostalgic journey through time, blending modern culinary techniques with comforting
flavors reminiscent of classic American dishes set in a retro-chic environment. The space is adorned
with quirky memorabilia, neon accents, and a colorful palette that captures a sense of nostalgia
without feeling overly kitschy, creating a welcoming environment for diners to unwind and enjoy the
culinary adventure. Retro by Voltaggio's menu is a playful exploration of classic American favorites. We started our dinner with the deviled eggs with smoked trout roe along with the Beet
Steak Tartare, which was incredible. Next came the bluefin tuna Ceviche served over coconut crushed ice. For our entrées, we tried the Trout Meunière, which was served in a lemon and caper sauce, as well as the Lobster Thermidor with lobster waffles… yes, you read that correctly. It’s as delicious as it
sounds. Save room for the dessert cart which contains innovative creations that satisfy the sweet tooth. Whether you're a fan of nostalgic flavors or simply seeking a unique and enjoyable meal, Retro by Voltaggio is worth the visit. After dinner, catch a performance of Michael Jackson “ONE” by Cirque du Soleil also at Mandalay Bay. The show is a captivating tribute to the King of Pop that seamlessly blends
the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the timeless music and iconic choreography of
Michael Jackson. From the moment the lights dim to the final bow, the show is a high energy,
emotionally charged celebration of the legendary entertainer's life and legacy.
This isn’t your typical Cirquedu Soleil show and is more like a concert featuring all of
Michael’s greatest hits, memorable dance moves, and state-of-the-art production. I felt like “ONE” is
the type of concert Michael would have wanted to perform if he were still with
us.
The thing I like most about Vegas is it is always evolving. Every time you visit, there is
something new to see or do.Viva Las Vegas!
Enjoy the Journey!
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