By Nellie Day
The famous gigantic guitar outside the hotel
Located just off the Strip on Paradise Road is the music-themed Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. It's home to trendy rock n' roll establishments like the Mexican restaurant Pink Taco, the nightclub Body English and the daytime club Rehab, which is open every Sunday at the hotel's lavish pool area. The Hard Rock also features A-list musical acts that perform at either the Joint, the hotel's arena-sized concert venue, or Wasted Space, a rock club designed by motorcross superstar Carey Hart.
Wows and Woes
Wows: The Hard Rock pulls off its hard-core rock n' roll theme perfectly, attracting both young and old visitors, as well as classic and trendy musical acts.
Woes: The noise, hype and uber-trendiness can become too much for some, especially when it's crowded.
Insider Tips
Don't bother checking out the Hard Rock's casino or non-musical themed restaurants. They're just like every other casino in Vegas. Do spend your time perusing the music memorabilia and partying at Body English if you're up for an all-nighter or Wasted Space if you want a more low-key night. The rooms here are nice, but they can be expensive and inconvenient, as you're off Strip. Instead, visit for a night and stay on the Strip.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I took my friends to tour the Hard Rock after not having visited it for a while. I was blown away by how much it had changed and how quickly it morphed from the tired old gimmicky Hard Rock into an all-out musical Mecca. We spent a few hours walking around and being thoroughly impressed by the decor. Our best find was Pink Taco, which does amazing, if not completely authentic, Mexican food.
Bottom Line
Go check out what makes the Hard Rock Las Vegas' trendiest resort, then head back to your on-Strip hotel.
About the Author:
Nellie Day is a freelance writer based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. She has her Master's degree in broadcast journalism from USC, and Bachelors' degrees in English and sociology from UC Irvine. Ms. Day's work can regularly be seen on newsstands, where her specialties include weddings, pets, real estate, electronics, product reviews, business, architecture and design, Southern California, food and wine, and travel and tourism.
Photo Credits:
Flickr.com; anne.oeldorf
