Week 12- The Strip

Place: The Las Vegas Strip
We have been on the strip 3 times now.  The first time was when Becky was here.  The second time was just in Mandalay Bay to go to the Shark Reef Aquarium for Charlie's Birthday.  And this, the third time, was actually an unplanned visit with Jill.

Spring Gardens in the lobby of the Bellagio.  The lobby changes seasonally.

There was also a butterfly garden.  Unfortunately I did not get a picture.

  

Cost: free (depending on the activity)

Hours: The strip is open 24-7.  If going with kids, I would recommend between 9am- 4pm.  Around 4pm, the first wave of drunks seem to come out.  9am - 1pm is a great time!  Most people are recovering from the night before and the streets have been cleaned of trash.
Best for kids age:  The strip is a playground for adults, not kids.  But there are some cool things for kids as young as two if you go at the right time.

Just relaxing on a roof top pool

On the plus side: There are lots of free things to do here.  The casinos are built on losers, not winners and thus they can afford to have fancy and fun decorations in their lobbies.

On the down side: So in keeping it real, the Las Vegas Strip is only acceptable for this conservative momma at certain times.  When Becky was here we ventured to the strip on a Saturday evening to see the fountains at the Bellagio.  Prior to moving here, the last time I had been to Las Vegas was 8 years ago.  I had forgotten how downright terrible this place can be.   That night we arrived home from the strip and I balled my eyes out to Kirby for an hour feeling like a horrible mother.  I vowed never again to bring our children to the strip at night and I am completely committed to this.  On a Saturday night the ground is littered with cards for hookers,  drunks of all ages stumble the streets, and homeless plead for money holding signs that say something to this extent "Let's be honest. I'm going to spend it on beer."  UGH!  UGH!  UGH!

Downside (even during acceptable times to me), it requires a TON of walking!!!

Suggestions: Hmmm... if you haven't picked up on it yet.   ONLY GO DURING CERTAIN TIMES OF THE DAY!!
Rating (on a scale of 1-5 stars) I just don't know what to give it.  So I guess a 3.  A 4 or 5 would imply that  I really like it for kids.  A 1 or 2 would imply that it is horrible and I won't be taking the kids again, but I know that's not the case.
Go again?  We will go again.  Hotels like the Bellagio change decorations in their lobby throughout the year.  I will take the kiddos back to see Christmas decorations.  (And if you know me I love Christmas so of course I want to see them!)