Ten Things to Do in Las Vegas

Get to the MGM Grand around 10:00 a.m. when the lions first arrive, and you will think you are watching the common house cat rather than the king of the jungle. Most active when they are first released for their daily show, the lions often take part in a game of ball with the trainers.

Vegas is not all about gambling of course, but if you like to be entertained on a low budget don't pass up the animated penny slots. Gold Fish and Stampede can be found in almost all hotels on the strip. One dollar can get you going with fun bonuses that can rack up at least enough cash for your evening cocktail.

On your trek up and down the strip, stop by the Bellagio to see the breathtaking fountains. Shows start at 3:00 p.m. on weekdays and 12:00 p.m. on weekends, and run every half hour until 8:00 p.m. when they begin running every 15 minutes until midnight. While over 20 songs are used for the performances, Con Te Partiro by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman should not be missed.

Located in the Paris Hotel, the outdoor dining at this restaurant offers the most stunning views of the fountains across the street. Be sure to try the cheese plate with walnut raisin bread and the Onion Soup Au Gratin. Reservations are not accepted for the patio, and on weekends the wait can be up to two hours; however, it's fully worth it for the view, food and service.

Elegant Chicken Wellington, Lobster Ravioli, sushi and desserts with an artistic flair can all be found at the Bellagio with presentation only an upscale Vegas hotel can provide. If you are standing in a long line and only have a few in your party, keep your ears perked for the host to make a call for those who want to sit at the bar. You'll cut your wait time in half and the atmosphere is equally as pleasant as a table in the dining room.

The selection of Cirque shows in Vegas grows almost every year. If you are looking for amazing acrobats over a stage of water, get tickets for the show "O" at the Bellagio. For humor and stunts that define the capabilities of human strength, check out Mystere in Treasure Island. Also, don't be afraid of the cheap seats if you are on a budget. These theaters offer great views for even the lowest-paying guest.

Head over to the Miracle Mile Shops in Planet Hollywood, and pull up a chair in the bar of the Ocean One Bar & Grille. Catch a game on the television as you enjoy their three-for-one drink specials. Remember: The special only applies to well drinks even if the hostess in the front tells you otherwise.

While the strip is not lacking for places to shop, the stores can be more upscale and the prices expensive. Las Vegas offers two outlet mall options that are full of great deals. Las Vegas Premium Outlets is just north of the strip, and you can get to them by using the Deuce bus service and taking it to the Downtown Transportation Center. Then hop on the Shopper's Express to get to the mall. If you have a car, you can also drive about an hour south of the strip on I-15 to reach the Fashion Outlets in the city of Primm.

Sure, M&M's are everywhere, but there is something about M&M World on the south end of the strip near the MGM Grand that just brings out the kid in all of us. You can mix your own bag with every color under the sun. Be prepared for masses of people and lots of kiddies making their way through all the candy souvenirs.

Located off the strip, the Red Rock is well worth a visit. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the tourists while snooping around their large casino. The quality of the restaurants measures up to anything you'd find on the strip without the hefty price tag. Eat at the Cabo Mexican Restaurant and try the Mini Beef Burrito and Cheese Enchilada, and you'll definitely want a house margarita to go with that.