It’s no secret Las Vegas is one of the most sought after locales for a gay getaway in the U.S. With pool parties galore, top notch dining, nightlife that rages regardless of the time of day, plus outdoor adventures and queer local curios, it’s hardly a wonder the LGBT community flocks to fabulous Las Vegas.
At the north end of the Las Vegas Strip you’ll find the elegant and whimsical SLS Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. The former site of the Sahara, where the Rat Pack took up residence, the SLS pays homage to the legends of Las Vegas’ past while keeping the vibe contemporary.
Part of the Hilton collection of hotels, the SLS Las Vegas now offers a special Stay Hilton. Go Out package for its LGBT travelers which includes:
- High-speed internet access
- A one-year digital subscription to OUT magazine – one of the world’s leading gay magazines
- Two welcome beverages
- Late checkout when available
We pulled together a perfect weekend itinerary to help you plan your Las Vegas getaway. Check it out below:
EAT
Proclaimed Las Vegas’ new foodie hotel by Zagat, the SLS Las Vegas offers plenty to entertain your palate. Start at Bazaar Meat by José Andrés. Las Vegas’ incarnation of the famed Bazaar celebrates all things carnivorous. With inventive offerings beyond those of a traditional steakhouse, the Bazaar offers Spanish-inspired cuisine that pairs perfectly with their classic cocktails concocted with a twist. Sushi seekers will want to check out Katsuya. Famous for its fusion of Japanese and Californian cuisine, Katsuya offers original creations like the Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna and award-winning cocktails like the Burning Mandarin. For something casual but still sophisticated pop over to Umami Burger, known for their unique blend of seasonings and sauces; leave your substitutions at home. Savor the craft beer on the outdoor beer garden and place your bets at the enjoined William Hill Sports Book.
Enjoy a shared plate dining experience at Cleo, Chef Danny Elmaleh’s take on contemporary Mediterranean cuisine served in a posh Moroccan setting. Those in need of a pick me up can perk up at The Perq. A collaboration with LAMILL Coffee, The Perq offers gourmet coffee and tea in addition to light fare such as salads, paninis, pastries and gelato. Head over to North Side Café for comfort food served up 24/7. Then check out 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria for old world Italian style pizza that bakes from start to finish in just 60 seconds. Complete your culinary tour of the SLS at José Andrés’ Ku Noodle. Try the handmade noodles and siu mai dumplings but save room for the Taiwanese shaved ice for dessert.
GO OUT
Just off the Strip you’ll find one of Las Vegas’ most popular gay nightclubs, SHARE. Watch hot go-go boys and Stripper Circus (when in town) then spread out on the dance floor or lounge in a VIP cabana. Cowboy lovers, head to Charlie’s Las Vegas. Country music, a stetson-wearing staff and free line dance lessons await you at this gay saloon. With 10,000 square feet, Piranha Nightclub and 8 1/2 Ultra Lounge offers two distinct but attached nightclub spaces. Chill out at 8 1/2 Lounge with pool, retro arcade games or hang on the outdoor patio. Amp things up at Piranha with a full-fledged dance party. Take in a drag show at the centrally-located FreeZone then mingle with the locals. Feel free to stay out all night—this bar is open 24/7. Leather lovers, pop over to Las Vegas’ Eagle. For male revues, take in perennial favorites like Chippendales, Thunder From Down Under and Men of Sapphire.
You also won’t want to miss the many nightlife spots at the SLS. Start your evening at Monkey Bar with a cocktail to amuse your bouche then come back for a nightcap to cap things off. A glamorously high-tech nightclub that opens to an outdoor pool, Foxtail is the perfect place to get down. Take in emerging and legendary artists alike at Las Vegas’ incarnation of the famed Hollywood music venue, The Sayers Club. Or stay close to the casino floor at Center Bar.
HAVE FUN
Beyond the dining and the nightlife, Las Vegas has plenty to keep you entertained. Check out the iconic signs that made Las Vegas famous at The Neon Museum, a favorite among Towleroad readers. Located Downtown, The Smith Center offers world class performing arts, a full-fledged Broadway series, performances by the Las Vegas Philharmonic, Nevada Ballet Theatre company plus a concert series and speaking events.
For shopping look no further than the SLS’ own ETC, a collection of 7 boutiques curated by Fred Segal. The Mob Museum tells the history of organized crime with interactive exhibits reviewers love. Those looking to explore the great outdoors will want to check out Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, perfect for those who love to hit the trails. Then head to the Valley of Fire State Park and glimpse rock art left behind by the ancient Anasazi people. Of course you can’t miss the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas serves as a main point of departure for tours by helicopter, plane, Hummer, VIP mini coaches, pontoon boats and ATVs. Afterwards, take advantage of the Las Vegas heat and sit poolside at one of the SLS’ two expansive pools.
