DK Travel : Las Vegas : Beyond the Neon

Look beyond the Neon and you will find that Las Vegas is, like the god Janus, a two-faced town. One is about make-up and make-believe; the other is like that of other American towns, with more than 500 churches, first-rate community centers, parks, and playgrounds. Las Vegas is a city where significant research is undertaken at medical centers, and where cultural performances take place almost every night. It is also a growing city with many ethnic neighborhoods.

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Arizona Charlie’s

Dude-ranch touches include deer antler chandeliers. Pai gow poker and Royal Match 21 are included in the games.
Bell, Book, & Candle

Talismans, crystal balls, tarot cards, and other soothsayers’ tools. Witchcraft lessons, too.
Belz Factory Outlet World

A truly fabulous place for any shoppers in your party who may have “champagne” tastes but “house-wine” wallets.
Big Mama’s

Creole and Cajun dishes such as jambalaya, creole gumbo, okra, fish cakes, and sweet potato pie.
Chinatown Plaza

With pagoda-style roofs, a traditional Chinese entrance gate, and a statue of the mythical monk Tripitaka, with his companions – a pig, a soldier, and a monkey – Chinatown Plaza offers a delightful blend of East and West. Stores specialize in both American and Eastern necessities and Asian luxuries. Chinese music wafts through the covered walkways (a misting system keeps shoppers cool in summer). Good stops include Chong Hing Jewelers, Valley Oriental Art Works and Paintings, Marco Polo Furniture, and Chinatown Florist. Not surprisingly, the restaurants are the best in town for Asian cuisine.
Chinatown Plaza

A shopping center that serves the needs of the city’s sizeable Asian community as well as Asian-American tourists and visitors from around the world. At festival times (see Festivals and Annual Events), counters are piled high with moon cakes and treats linked to special days.
Cost Plus World Market

Import bazaar with handsome tableware, furniture, foodstuffs, and art objects from all corners of the world.
Courtyard by Marriott

Popular with trade show attendees. Breakfasting away from the madding crowds is a real plus.
Emerald Springs Holiday Inn

The attractive 150-room motor hotel is a favorite with visitors who want to be near the bright lights without overdoing the gaming atmosphere.
Ethel M. Chocolate Factory

Take a free tour to view the glass-enclosed, spotless, white kitchens where the diligent candy-makers concoct their sweet creations. Find out what the large stainless steel machines do, and admire the finished confections wrapped in their foil of emerald, ruby, sapphire, and other jewel colors. Every tour participant receives a free chocolate at the end of the tour. Outside the factory is a lovely cactus garden, with plants clearly identified.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with a half bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- over $60
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $50
- $50–$100
- $100–$150
- $150–$200
- over $200