A city with a colorful history and never ending display of neon and shady choices. Before the bright lights and bustling casinos, the Las Vegas Valley was home to Native American tribes, including the Paiute people. They settled in the area for thousands of years, living off the land’s natural resources and water supply. In the 19th century, Las Vegas found itself along the Old Spanish Trail, a trade route between Santa Fe and California. This brought increased traffic through the region, but it wasn’t until the 1850s that Las Vegas began to take shape as a true settlement.
One pivotal moment in Las Vegas’s history was the arrival of the railroad in 1905 when the San Pedro, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake City Railroad linked the city to the Pacific coast. This brought an influx of settlers and commerce to the area, marking the birth of modern Las Vegas. In the 1920s, Las Vegas experienced the effects of Prohibition in full swing. The city’s proximity to Los Angeles and its relatively lax enforcement of alcohol laws made it an attractive destination for those seeking entertainment and libations. This era laid the foundation for the development of speakeasies and early forms of gambling.
In 1931, Nevada became the first state in the U.S. to legalize gambling. This decision was pivotal for Las Vegas, as it led to the construction of the first legal casinos and resorts along Fremont Street, setting the stage for the city’s transformation into a gambling mecca. Las Vegas became synonymous with top-tier entertainment in the 1950s and 1960s, largely thanks to the performances of legendary figures like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. The Rat Pack’s shows at the Sands Hotel and Casino epitomized the city’s glamorous nightlife. This is the latest edition to the strip the sphere. This is part of the Venetian Resort to the tune of 2.3 now labeled the most expensive venue on the strip.
Today the city sports a variety of opportunities, sports, comedy, culinary excursions, shopping and experiences. We lucked out with tickets to see Josh Wolf at the Jimmy Kimmel comedy club. He is worth every penny, buy the tickets. He did a hilarious stent about hall passes and kids dating. The bar has amazing happy hour so come early and enjoy a cocktail before the show.
No trip would be complete without stopping to see my dear friend Ceci. My favorite export from Panama which speaks volumes since I love Herrerano rum. We are in a fairly tight relationship. We got a chance to float around the beach and even strolled along the strip. Drinks, laughter and love.
The boys played dumb ball. Nevada is checked off the list. The best part of the day was sitting next to my bestie catching up. Sadly another dollar is now out of circulation. The Puerto Rican was victorious and now is creating the Witzman Wing on the wall of shame. We have more money tied up on that wall than any other room. I cannot love those to any more than I do.
We met in 2019 because of our love for the Vikings. He has been one of my biggest cheerleaders, confidant and mentor. My life is forever changed since the day I met you. Thanks for making my birthday special in Las Vegas and for always seeing the best in me. Skol my bestie.
With you, life’s journey becomes a song,
In your presence, I always feel strong.
In the darkest hours, you’re my light,
Guiding me through the toughest fight.
A few bits of the cities unusual or unique facts:
The Flamingo Las Vegas is one of the city’s oldest hotels and was opened by gangster Bugsy Siegel in 1946. It’s known for its pink flamingo theme.
The Luxor Sky Beam: The Luxor Hotel’s sky beam, powered by 39 xenon lamps, is one of the brightest beams in the world and is visible from space. It also costs 51.00 per hour to keep on.
The MGM Grand’s Bronze Lion is the Largest Bronze Statue in the United States.
Until next time the city of sin you are always entertaining.
