VegasChatter

Serenity
Ritz Carlton. The words alone inspire a sigh. Add in "lakeside views in a Tuscan-inspired setting," and the relaxation has begun. Perhaps no place in Las Vegas offers the level of upscale resort potential with lush scenery—and with nary a slot machine in sight—as does Ritz Carlton at Lake Las Vegas. The hotel is currently offering a Resort Reconnect package which includes breakfast for two and a $50 resort credit each day. Room rates for this package start at $329 a night. Regular room rates begin at $289 a night.
[Photo: BishopGreen]

Serendipity
You never know what you’ll find at a local casino, like a 64-lane bowling alley at South Point. Or the just-opened M Resort (above), with its unusually stylish casino lit up by natural sunlight during the day and cool little details like self-serve beverage stations and an on-site pharmacy. (Yes, it's real and yes, it has real prescription medicine available, with a doctor's note.)
[Photo: Erika Pope]

Station Casinos
For Station Casinos’ longevity to be affected by its current financial woes would be a shame, especially as it relates to the sublime Red Rock Casino, Resort, & Spa, with its glorious views of the Red Rock Mountains, its yummy food, its likeable décor (see picture, no cheesy themes here!), and its ample entertainment.

Ditto for another locals-fave, Green Valley Ranch, which offers something for everyone: family-friendly entertainment, four nearby golf courses, restaurants in nearly every price range, a 10-screen movie theater, and a giant shopping center, The District, right across the street.

What's your favorite thing about staying off the Strip? Let us know!