How to Spend a 21st Birthday in Las Vegas

 

Las Vegas is known to be a hot destination for anyone celebrating a big life event, including the rite-of-passage of a 21st birthday. With the newfound ability to order a drink on your own, the possibilities are endless for how to spend your time in a city known for its world-renowned reputation of revelry. Narrow down your options with a rundown of how to take your Vegas birthday adventure to the next level.

Your choice of hotel will make all the difference in the world, so why not splurge on your once-in-a-lifetime 21st birthday adventure? The Cosmopolitan is known for its sleek and sexy atmosphere that will have you feeling sophisticated during your entrance into adulthood. The Wynn and Encore towers will also give a luxurious feel to your stay with a classic style and beautiful views.

The extravagant Venetian Resort will also put a lavish touch on your stay with spacious suites and opulent Italian decor. For a great stay just off the strip, the newly renovated Palms will have you feeling like a rockstar with a chic, contemporary design and one-of-a-kind specialty suites.

Once you step foot onto the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll feel the energy of the city with people from all over the world thrill seeking in the lively, neon setting. You’re sure to get your heart-rate pumping on your 21st birthday by taking a few laps around the track driving a luxury sports car at Exotics Racing.

If seeing the city from great heights is more your style, take a helicopter tour of the Vegas Strip for unparalleled views of the night’s sparkling lights. You’ll also get an adrenaline-filled view from the top of the Stratosphere–the tallest observation tower in the country that also includes multiple thrill rides that dangle you over the bustling city below.

Make the most of your Vegas 21st birthday trip by indulging in some of the world’s finest cuisine featured up and down the Strip. The SLS Hotel is home to Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, an imaginative culinary experience that is known to put an innovative twist on traditional Spanish dishes. Enjoy dinner at Catch at Aria for a trendy, eye-catching destination with an Asian-influenced menu.

You won’t go wrong at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, where the celebrity chef has created a menu of mouth-watering American cuisine at The Bellagio. Hakkasan isn’t just a nightclub, but also a luxurious restaurant with a Cantonese-inspired menu that makes for an unforgettable dining experience in a stylish atmosphere.

One of the best parts of Las Vegas weather is being able to take advantage of it through attending sun-filled day parties where you can celebrate your 21st birthday poolside while hearing your favorite artists. Encore Beach Club at the Wynn is a known favorite where DJs like The Chainsmokers, Diplo and Kygo show off their talents to energized crowds. Head to a Drai’s pool party atop the Cromwell Hotel where hip hop’s finest, including Snoop Dogg, Migos and Future, are known to take the stage.

Wet Republic is a go-to for fans of EDM DJs like Steve Aoki, Tiesto and Zedd while at Daylight at Mandalay Bay you’ll find Morgan Page, Rick Ross and Duke Dumont. Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan is also a hot destination boasting performances from DJs like Don Diablo, DJ Ruckus and DJ Mustard.

A city made for entertainment wouldn’t be complete without a lineup of shows and music acts to dazzle you during your 21st birthday experience. Lovers of pop music will have plenty of talented stars to choose from with Katy Perry, Carrie Underwood, and Celine Dion all putting on regular performances in the city throughout the year.

You’ll also find bands like Silk Sonic and KISS taking their place on stage at hotels along the Strip. You can also take in one of the awe-inspiring Cirque du Soleil shows like O Show, or see Absinthe for a vintage circus and cabaret experience.

It wouldn’t be a 21st birthday in Vegas without taking advantage of the overabundance of nightclubs along the iconic Strip. Head to the Aria to experience Jewel, a nightclub that brings artists like Tyga, Lil’ Jon and DMX to the stage regularly. You’ll be feeling the energy at XS with performers like Drake, Alesso and Marshmello entertaining crowds in the indoor-outdoor space.

You’ll also get a unique experience at Encore Night Swim—one of the few nighttime pool parties on the Strip, featuring acts like Anna Lunoe, Disclosure, Galantis and Rufus Du Sol. LIGHT Nightclub at Mandalay Bay will have you dancing to artists like Saweetie, T-Pain and E-40. Marquee at The Cosmopolitan puts on shows from dance music legends like Benny Benassi and Fedde Le Grand. Aria is home to Jewel nightclub, which features EDM and hip hop acts like Tyga, Nicky Romero and Party Favor.

If you’re narrowing down a place to buy your first drink and kick off your 21st birthday night, the best way to go is to stop into one of Vegas’ hottest lounges for an enhanced pre-party experience. 

Head to the Waldorf Astoria to enjoy the sleek SkyBar for signature cocktails and an unparalleled floor-to-ceiling view from the 23rd floor. You’ll also enjoy the view at the elegant Chandelier lounge in The Cosmopolitan, with three levels to take in the sparkling crystal decor. The Cosmopolitan is also home to The Barbershop Cuts and Cocktails, a hidden speakeasy gem where guests can get a haircut, a whiskey cocktail, and take in live entertainment all in one place. For a vintage-inspired hideaway, The MGM’s On The Record speakeasy experience is a unique destination with an impressive record store theme.