When we received this question, we wrote back asking for some more details, so we could better tailor our suggestions to the writer's specific predilections. The response came back:
"I am female, age 33, and the club scene doesn't appeal to me. I'm looking forward to watching some shows and spending some time at a spa. I'm pretty easy going and love talking to people, so not afraid to strike up conversations with total strangers. Are there any special deals for singles, entertainment or food-wise? Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is anything else you need from me. I appreciate you tackling this very open-ended question."
That extra information definitely helps. Here are some ideas:
Shows and spas can certainly be enjoyed solo and we actually have discounts for both, good for a single person, in the 2011 MRB (you can use the $50 Palms coupon at their spa, or get up to $50 off at Aquae Sulis at the JW Marriott, if you have transport). While a lot of the show discounts are for 2-for-1 deals, some are good for singletons, or, as you're a sociable type, maybe you'll meet someone who'd like to go with you? The same goes for dining deals, where we have a good few that you can use solo.
Unfortunately, your trip falls in between First Friday (May 6) and the next Las Vegas StrEATS food truck festival downtown (May 14), either of which could've been fun. Not to worry, though; the whole nightlife scene downtown has really grown over the past couple of years, with a bunch of cool and diverse bars to choose from, all within easy walking distance of one other. The weather's perfect for strolling around in the evening at this time of year, and it's a friendly scene with a mainly, but not exclusively local crowd, and there's always something something going on.
Shopping-wise, you've got plenty options, from designer bargain-hunting at the outlet malls, to Town Square (you can take the Deuce bus from the Strip), where you can certainly kill a few hours and find plenty of good options for eating and drinking, as well. If you have a car, the new Tivoli Gardens complex on the west side is worth exploring.
There's no shortage of attractions, depending on your tastes. We'd suggest the Springs Preserve and CSI Experience as activities that can definitely be enjoyed by yourself, especially the former; click here for a list of other options. Check out our Museums & Galleries section, too -- we highly recommend the Atomic Testing Museum as an unexpected diversion, or check out the Neon Boneyard, where you can wander around giant neon signage salvaged from Vegas' past (tours are limited to groups of 15 and tend to fill up a couple of weeks in advance, especially on the weekend, so book your spot asap if this appeals to you).
Depending on your budget, a helicopter ride over/into the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we recommend to anyone, but expect to spend a minimum of $300.
For some "only in Vegas" ideas, depending on how much you want to let your hair down, you could try a pole-dancing class at Stripper 101 in the Miracle Mile Shops. Tap into your inner burlesque and get some tips on how to be a Vegas showgirl at the new X Burlesque University at the Flamingo, where real performers from the show teach you the tricks of the trade, from make-up to moves. For something a little less energetic, how about getting your nails "did" at our one-and-only 24-hour salon? You'll find "Get Nail'd" in the strip mall opposite the Hard Rock on Paradise Rd.
Lastly, if adrenalin's your thing, check out one of the numerous thrill rides atop the Stratosphere (there's a money-saving Tower Pass in the 2011 MRB, but it's a 2-for-1 deal, so you'll need to find a friend), or try to catch Speed, the rollercoaster at the Sahara, before it closes May 16.
Those are just a few ideas; if other readers want to contribute their suggestions, we'll add them as "Updates" to this answer. Have a fun and safe trip!
