By Sophie Cappell
Las Vegas is arguably the world’s most iconic location for stag and hen parties (or bachelor and bachelorette parties if we’re in the US). With its reputation for nightlife, pool parties, gambling, and all things fun, Vegas has every ingredient for a sun-soaked weekend you’ll never forget. Though the culture in Las Vegas favors the party scene, Sin City has something for everyone, from incredible shopping and natural wonders to mesmerizing shows and top-notch restaurants.
With the Las Vegas Tourism Board sponsoring the United Kingdom Weddings & Honeymoons Awards for 2025 and generously offering an incredible £50,000 all-inclusive wedding prize to a lucky couple, we thought we’d investigate how to make the most of a weekend getaway in the world’s most entertaining desert.
Where to Stay
Vegas is home to some of the most iconic hotels in the world, and these hotels are more than just a place to rest your head after a long day and night. Most of the best clubs, restaurants, attractions, and casinos are located within hotel resorts, so where you stay is important.
The Strip:
The Strip is the most popular choice for a hen weekend in Vegas. As the city’s most iconic destination, booking a stay on The Strip means you’ll never be far from the nightlife, glitz, and glamour, making it ideal for a weekend trip. Resorts on The Strip are grand, ostentatious, and full of fun. Consider booking The Venetian, Hotel Paris, or the Bellagio—some of the most iconic hotels. With lavish suites, atmospheric restaurants, fantastic casinos, multiple pools, and a vast array of entertainment, you wouldn’t even need to leave the resort to have an unforgettable Vegas experience.
Downtown:
Downtown is a fantastic choice for bridal parties who still want to experience Vegas but are on a tighter budget and prefer the option to dip in and out of the chaos of The Strip. Downtown Vegas has a much more laid-back vibe but is still full of great bars and restaurants. Hotels in Downtown may allow you to relax a bit more, perhaps by the pool with a book, to prepare for a big night out. However, keep in mind that transportation will be needed to reach more central locations.
Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
Where to Go Out
Essentially a playground for adults, Vegas offers some of the best nightlife in the world. All the major hotels host huge shows, including Cirque du Soleil, and there is always some kind of musical residency happening. Vegas has notably hosted icons from Elvis to Elton John, and more recently, Bruno Mars.
The most popular clubs and parties in Vegas include Omnia at Caesars Palace, Zouk, and Hakkasan, which feature some of the world’s most famous DJs. It’s well worth researching what’s on before you arrive.
During the day, hotels host pool events that are perfect for getting the party started. Though not everyone’s cup of tea, casino culture is synonymous with Vegas. Even if you have no intention of gambling, it’s worth wandering into one of the big hotel casinos just to have a peek. Most casinos offer tables for beginners, so you can have fun dabbling without feeling out of your depth or worrying about remortgaging your house before heading home!
Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Where to Eat
Twenty years ago, the food scene in Vegas wasn’t much to rave about—steakhouses and buffets were more of a means to fuel the night ahead and soak up whatever had been consumed in the early hours. However, the culinary scene in Vegas has come a long way and is now an attraction in itself. It isn’t difficult to find great eats in Vegas, but here are some of our top recommendations:
For a glamorous dining experience with your bridal party, try Cathédrale, tucked inside the Aria Resort. This Mediterranean restaurant, complete with a monumental ceiling installation, low lighting, and Art Deco interiors, feels both decadent and sophisticated. For a more relaxed dinner while sipping cocktails and enjoying great food, try TAO for sushi or CATCH for amazing seafood and oysters. For an incredible drinks experience you must try The crystal-ensconed 3 story Chandelier Bar.
What to Do in the Daytime
Even the most seasoned partygoers need some downtime. There is so much to see and do in the central area, but it would be a shame to sleep all day without experiencing the other side of Las Vegas. Climb the Eiffel Tower, visit The Sphere, or explore the beautiful conservatory at The Bellagio.
Alternatively, catch the world-class magic duo The Conjurors at The Orleans Hotel and Casino. They will also be performing exclusively at The UK Wedding and Honeymoon Awards at London’s Dorchester Hotel in 2025.
Thanks to its location in the rocky and rugged Mojave Desert, Vegas is closer than you’d imagine to natural beauty. Put on your hiking boots and visit Red Rock Canyon, a national park that encompasses a stunning stretch of burnt-orange canyons, plunging valleys, and cliffs.
Lastly, remember to drink lots of water throughout the weekend—you are in a desert, after all!
For your chance to win a Las Vegas wedding worth £50,000 enter here and to see The Conjurers perform at The UK Weddings and Honeymoons Awards at the Dorchester hotel visit www.ukwha.co.uk
