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“Mouse” was the name of a Native American outlaw. The moderately easy, self-guiding trail to Mouse’s Tank (a series of natural catchments) passes the best petroglyphs in the park.

The arcade continues the pirate theme of the rest of the hotel; even the security guard is dressed for the part.

The Winston West motorcar race.

During the National Finals Rodeo, all of Las Vegas seems to go country – wearing jeans and boots. Casinos bring in country music bands, and line-dancing is enacted. The venues change from year to year, including that of the barbecue cook-off. The free entertainment magazines are the best sources of information about what’s going on where.

Cowboys compete for $4.2 million prize money at the USA’s premier rodeo.

The Nevada State Museum system is one of the best in the United States, and its Las Vegas branch is well deserving of a visit. The emphasis is on the anthropology and natural history of southern Nevada, with dioramas containing stuffed bighorn sheep, cougars, and other impressive wildlife. On a totally different subject, head for the excellent Cowboy Up! exhibition, which charts more than 100 years of rodeo history. Temporary displays include items such as Indian baskets, fiber arts, and saddle blankets.

The 7-hour Hoover Dam Discovery Tour includes a 90- minute ride aboard the Desert Princess paddlewheeler and a visit to Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory. They also offer tours to the Grand Canyon.

The best-known Nevada-made edibles are Ethel M. Chocolates, created by Forrest Mars, a member of the Milky Way, Mars, Three Musketeers, and M&Ms manufacturing family. For the more refined palate, try Mrs Auld’s Sweet ‘n’ Spicy pickles, her scone mix, or brandied cherries; Davidson Teas are good, too.

The Statue of Liberty raises her torch over the busiest intersection in Las Vegas. Nearby the Empire State, CBS, and Chrysler buildings rub shoulders with the Brooklyn Bridge, Grand Central Station, and the New York Public Library. Despite the architectural license, New York–New York is an exciting place with all manner of well-observed details.