Last week I was in Las Vegas for a conference. Since I used to live in Vegas, I strive to do something new and different each time I visit. I have been to the amazing shows, dined in restaurants on the strip, patronized a few night clubs and gambled in the casinos, but Vegas has so much more to offer than what you can find in the few miles known at “the Strip”. Here is a list of some of what I consider the best unique, non-Vegas things to do in Vegas.
Red Rock Canyon
Who would have guessed that such natural beauty was so close to the glitz and glam of the Strip. Whether you are cycling through or enjoying scenic drive, the vistas and tranquility of Red Rock is a stark contrast to the Strip. 
The Neon Museum
Ever wonder what happened to all the neon signs of yesteryear? Many are kept at the Neon Museum. The Neon Boneyard, near downtown Vegas, displays the rich history of days gone by; it is a great tribute to the Vegas of the 1930s-1990s. 
Downtown Vegas
Step back in time to see what Vegas used to be…”legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling hospitality – this is the vintage Vegas of the Fremont Street Experience” (The Vegas Experience). 
Thrift Stores
Yes, I visit a thrift store on each visit to Vegas. Savers is one of my favorite shops, but there are others as well. Click on the link and use the zip code 89147 to find various locations. When the glamorous residents of Vegas fill their closets with a new wardrobe, the lucky shoppers of Savers reap the rewards. I have unearthed finds from Louis Vuitton, Nordstrom (with tags still attached), Missoni, Armani, Calvin Klein and more! 
Helicopter Tour and picnic in the Grand Canyon
OK, I must admit, this is one activity I have not done yet, but it is on my list of things to do on a future trip to Vegas. The Grand Celebration tour with Papillon sounds fabulous to me and in relation to the cost of an hour helicopter tour in Hawaii, it is very reasonable. Plus, you not only get gorgeous views of the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam, you get to enjoy a champagne picnic on the canyon floor. 
In-n-Out
Those of you lucky enough to live on the West Coast may not think a trip to In-N-Out is anything special, but those of us on the East Coast crave their burgers and we have to fly west to quench that hunger! Sure Vegas has gourmet restaurants and world renowned chefs, but nothing beats the classic taste of a simple In-N-Out burger. 
What are your favorite “off the beaten path” activities in Las Vegas?
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