Living It Up in Las Vegas: The Ultimate 40s Getaway Guide

When Las Vegas comes to mind, many people immediately conjure images from the famous Hangover movie—nights filled with excess, blurry memories, and morning-after regrets. Sure, you can revel in debauchery if you choose, but for those of us seeking a more memorable and relaxing time, there’s a different side to Vegas to enjoy. With its delicious eats, dazzling hotels, and spectacular live shows, Las Vegas truly offers something for everyone at any age. This is our ultimate guide to Vegas in your 40s (and beyond).

While not to the degree of The Hangover, both of us experienced the party and clubbing scene in Vegas in our 20s and early 30s, so when we decided to spend a few days in Vegas after going to Zion, we had very low expectations. Surprisingly, after our three days in Las Vegas, we found ourselves sad to leave. We have since returned and cherished every moment of our newfound love of Sin City. Las Vegas, as we discovered, has much more to offer than we had realized.

Amazing food

Our favorite part of Vegas is the incredible food scene. It’s a culinary playground like no other, with a remarkable concentration of renowned chefs along the main strip. As we’ve grown older and our budgets have expanded from what they were in our 20s, we’ve come to relish the opportunity to splurge on incredible dining experiences.

However, it’s important to note that Vegas caters to all budgets, and you don’t have to break the bank to savor exceptional cuisine. The city offers a variety of incredible, wallet-friendly dining options, both within and beyond the strip.

Relaxing days

A true vacation requires time for rest and rejuvenation, and in Vegas, there are several ways to escape the worries of everyday life.

Pools

One of our favorite ways to spend the day is relaxing poolside. Las Vegas pools offer an experience beyond the wild parties you might have seen on reality TV or social media. In fact, all of the hotels we’ve stayed at offer calmer, regular pools where you can unwind, soak up the sun, and even secure a lounge chair. Arrive early in the day to claim your spot, as chairs tend to fill up quickly, especially on the weekends. Once you’re settled in, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in some leisurely reading or simply bask in the Vegas sun (don’t forget your sunscreen!).

Spas

If lounging at the pool isn’t your idea of relaxing, consider visiting one of the city’s remarkable spas. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate pampering session or prefer to keep costs in check, there’s an option for everyone. If you’d rather not splurge on a spa treatment, consider visiting spas that offer day passes. These passes grant you access to their luxurious facilities, allowing you to unwind and recharge without the need to commit to a full treatment. It’s a fantastic way to experience the serenity and opulence of Las Vegas spas without breaking the bank.

World-class entertainment

Hailed as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas offers a plethora of show options. From side-splitting comedy shows to mesmerizing magic acts and immersive musical performances, the city offers an extensive array of options to suit every taste.  You can even catch some big names on tour in Vegas at one of the two new event venues: The Sphere and Allegiant Stadium. 

Since tickets to shows can be pricey, we typically pick one show to see a trip. There are also several spots throughout Vegas where you can buy same-day discounted tickets. If you’re interested in the famed residencies, be sure to check the calendar, as they often have seasonal schedules.

Gambling

You can’t post about Vegas without mentioning gambling. For those who enjoy the thrill of testing their luck, this should be motivation enough to visit Vegas. Personally, I’m a fan of Blackjack, and I prefer playing during the day when tables are less crowded and the limits are lower. 

For sports fans, consider placing a bet on a game and watching in the sportsbook. It’s an entertaining way to root for your team while enjoying the energy of the sportsbook. At first, I was intimidated by sports betting because I didn’t know how to place a bet, but the people at the sportsbook were friendly and helpful.  

If you aren’t into gambling or sports, don’t worry—there’s plenty to see and do beyond the casino! 

Beautiful hotels

Las Vegas hotels are in a league of their own; from fun themes to luxurious resorts, Vegas has it all and at different price points. Even if you don’t stay at the most lavish hotel, we highly recommend allocating some time to venture out and explore the hotels, many of which offer complimentary shows and captivating architecture and displays. Las Vegas hotels are an attraction in their own right, so don’t skip the opportunity to experience all that they offer.

Retail therapy

Las Vegas isn’t just a city of entertainment and nightlife; it’s also a shopper’s paradise. With its variety of shopping options, from upscale boutiques to sprawling outlets, this city caters to all types of retail therapy. 

The Strip is lined with glamorous shopping centers like The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, and The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, where you can find designer brands and unique items. If you’re in the mood for luxury, head to the high-end stores at Wynn Esplanade or The Shops at Crystals. And for those seeking bargains, check out Las Vegas North Premium Outlets. 

Whether you’re shopping for the latest fashion trends or souvenirs to remember your Vegas experience, you’ll find plenty of shopping within a short drive.