Las Vegas is one of the most popular wedding destinations and happens to be the city where my best friend of 14 years decided to get married last year (2018). I was completely humbled that she asked me to be one of her bridesmaids, but of course, prior to the wedding festivities, the wedding party ventured on the strip.
Here’s the Budget Friendly Wedding Party Guide to Las Vegas.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of options in regards to hotels in Las Vegas. Personally, I have stayed at The Stratosphere and Planet Hollywood.
Atop of the Stratosphere is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States standing at 1,149’ offering a gorgeous view of the city. Our bridal party stayed here because it was part of the bride and groom’s wedding package. The only con was it is not directly located on the strip, but it was a quick 5-10 minute shuttle bus ride.
Planet Hollywood offers great rooms adorned in Hollywood memorabilia with views of the strip and the miracle mile mall located on the first floor.
High Roller Las Vegas
For a breathtaking view of Las Vegas, jump on board the High Roller Las Vegas, the world’s tallest Ferris wheel standing at 550’. It is a bit pricey, but they do offer student discounts! WINNING!!
The Las Vegas Arts District
Grab a coffee at one of the hipster coffee joints and immerse yourself in the unique murals of the Las Vegas Arts District also known as 18b located in Downtown Las Vegas.
Unique Drink Experiences
Start off your trip by immersing yourself in the gimmicks of Las Vegas by grabbing a collectible cup at Fat Tuesday with multiple locations on the strip, or the D Bar located on Fremont Street. Relax and sip on a slushy while you explore the strip.
Ever find yourself thinking your alcoholic beverages always taste different? Then stop on by The Robot located in Planet Hollywood for a consistently portioned beverage. Here, you’ll be able to experience a turn at being a mixologist by creating your own beverage which will then be sent to a queue for a robot to create a perfectly portioned beverage.
On a budget? Then look no further than Taco Bell Cantina. Open 24 hours where you’ll be able to choose an alcoholic Freeze drink from the Freeze Wall.
See A Show!
If you’re going to splurge on anything in Las Vegas, then you must invest in a show! There are several options from Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, Absinthe, and many more. I would completely recommend O! by Cirque du Soleil; however, this trip to Vegas led me to a Drag Brunch at Treasure Island. If a drag show is available to you, I must say, “Snag a few seats!”
The Big Apple Coaster
In Las Vegas, there are miniature replicas of popular monuments from around the world including the Statue of Liberty located at New York New York. Inside the hotel, you’ll be able to venture into the arcade and jump onto the Big Apple Coaster for an exhilarating ride.
Fremont Street
Fremont Street is the historic center and original gambling district of Vegas. If you happen to be in Vegas during the summer-fall months, there are outdoor concerts and events. A popular experience is the Slotzilla zipline from the largest slot machine where you’ll zip under a canopy of LED lights.
Essential Eats
Hash House A Go Go: Located in The LINQ Las Vegas Hotel & Casino where the portion sizes will leave you in a food coma. Literally. Our bridal party stopped in here our first night in Vegas and could not move after this meal. Keep in mind one dish, two people.
Vesta Coffee Roasters: Located in the 18b Arts District. Hipster vibes with great coffee and breakfast options.
Momofuku: Located in The Cosmopolitan that gives you a taste of Asian American cuisine. I was completely awe stricken by the Shishito Peppers and Chirashi. The menu changes daily, so keep your eyes peeled!
Taco Bell Cantina: I love Taco Bell, so I had to throw this onto the list of essential eats! But it was nice to spend a minimal amount on food after indulging on fancier dining experiences.
In-and-Out Burger: One of the most popular burger joints on the West Coast that is reasonably priced and won’t break the bank.
Explore the Hotels
Navigating down the strip, be sure to pop into The Bellagio, The Wynn, and The Cosmopolitan. The Bellagio and The Wynn offer beautiful, breathtaking gardens. The swanky hotel chandeliers of The Cosmopolitan are a gorgeous display and picture worthy spot.
Elvis Wedding
Ending our bridal party extravaganza was the limo ride to the chapel where my best friend was married in a Vegas chapel and serenaded by the music of Elvis Presley.
Our trip was pretty budget friendly for the most part during the 3.5 days. I will definitely be planning another trip to Vegas soon. I have barely scratched the surface on Vegas experiences.