2008 World Series of Poker: Things to do in Las Vegas

by Leah Bailly | Jul 3 2008

Dreaming in royal flushes? Obsessed with those elusive pocket aces? Getting lost between Fourth Street and Fifth Street, only to find yourself on Seventh Street without a hope? You need a break from the poker table, a chance to step away from the noise of chips and the stink of stressed-out contenders. You need an old-fashioned Sin City distraction, something to blow off steam, to relax the mind and provide the extra edge you need to conquer the World Series of Poker. 

Fortunately, Las Vegas is teeming with scores of distractions and attractions, most of which involve serious substance abuse. From peelers to party spots, Sin City openly encourages visitors to drop those old inhibitions in favor of a big night out. Locals never tire of the classic "mom dancing on the piano" routine, that Midwestern accountant performing a lap dance for her equally square partner in domesticity. Real WSOP contenders know, however, that a night of heavy boozing may have catastrophic results in tournament play. So the question is: What else is there to do in Vegas but drink?

Chillaxin'

Of course, the summer temperatures in Las Vegas will keep most gamblers restricted to only a few minutes outdoors. What sane human enjoys a stroll down sticky sidewalks at 110 degrees? There is, however, no shortage of lush resort pools for cooling off. Every resort has its oasis, but the best in town is the Mandalay Bay's giant 11-acre outdoor water park, complete with cabanas, misters and swim-up bars (you are never far from that devil cocktail.) Some pools even advertise (in true Vegas fashion) topless girls. Sound relaxing? The new trend in pool lounges is the Euro-style nudie bathing, meaning several beautiful waitress-cum-models are paid to loaf around certain "adult areas" with only a thong to protect them from the elements. Fancy some silicone with that sunburn?

The spa services attached to many Las Vegas resorts also range from scandalous to invigorating. From topless rub 'n' tugs to staunch Finnish saunas, tired poker players in need of a revitalizing mind-body treatment can indulge in a number of complete relaxation packages. The Strip's most luxurious spa, located at the Wynn’s gorgeous new facility, specializes in the "Good Luck Ritual," perfect for WSOP players in need of that extra boost. Essential oils, deep tissue massage and a tingling scalp tonic work to focus even the most worn-out gamblers. Incorporating elements of Feng Shui with energizing Thai massage, the Good Luck Ritual is an 80-minute rubdown completely dedicated to prosperity and wealth.

Looking for Thrills?

Some gamblers need a good scare to get them back in the game, and Las Vegas is no stranger to terror. From roller coasters to nasty pole dances, Sin City can usually frighten even the most fortitudinous thrill seeker. The Stratosphere, housed in America's tallest free-standing tower, boasts three mind-bending rides at the top that are sure to take the edge off that bad flop. Appropriately named "Insanity - The Ride," the most terrifying of the Stratosphere attractions is a massive mechanical arm that extends over an 866 foot drop and spins you around. Sound insane? Other rides include the "Big Shot," launching you up the needle at 45 mph, only to hover at 1,081 feet above the Strip for two terrifying seconds, before you plummet back into the tower.

Adventurous outdoor enthusiasts will find some natural thrills in the Spring Mountains surrounding the Las Vegas Valley. Why not escape the death-heat of downtown and head west to such desert spectacles as the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. A consistent 10 degrees cooler than the city, Red Rock is a world-famous sport-climbing destination, known for its slick rock and box canyon formations. Year-round springs provide much needed water for wildlife, and shade is provided by accidental ponderosa pines. Joshua trees and blooming cacti are scattered across the desert floor, but beware of the afternoon heat. Early morning departures are essential; the high summer sun can dehydrate hikers in a matter of minutes.

Wait, We Can Gamble?

Of course, WSOP players tend to be high rollers. You're seriously good at high stakes, but you're bored by traditional table games. In Vegas, there are hundreds of alternative gambling opportunities, from swim-up Blackjack to slot machines the size of cars. An old Bodog favorite worth mentioning is the infamous "Dealertainers" at the Imperial Palace. Nearly 20 celebrity impersonators double up as Blackjack dealers in the "Dealertainers Pit," where your dealer could, at any moment, step back from the table and leap onstage to perform one of their character's hits. From Gwen Stefani to Prince, this could be your only opportunity to double down with a real (or almost real) star!

And last but not least, nothing in Vegas is as relaxing as a good old round of Bingo. Look at all the senior citizens daubing their way to the jackpot. Don't they seem relaxed? The best part about Vegas Bingo, besides the free drinks and $4 buy-in? Free donuts every morning! Nearly all the 14 Las Vegas Bingo halls offer free unlimited Krispy Kremes with your 8 a.m. gin and juice (known as the "Bingo Breakfast.") The biggest Bingo hall in Vegas is the Gold Coast, boasting 720 seats and a starting jackpot of $20,000 per round. The perfect getaway from that poker action; just close your eyes and daub!

So during this World Series of Poker tournament, take your head out of the game any chance you get and explore some of Las Vegas' lesser-known attractions. Drowning in your ninth martini at the sportsbook may feel like a good idea at the time, but your next WSOP round could find you playing the fish. Let your competitors wallow in their hangovers. Instead, embark on an alternative adventure and explore the less obvious Sin City distractions. Your poker game will thank you.