Where To Go In Las Vegas, According To A Local

There are more attractions than you can shake a stick at in the entertainment capital of the world, so if you find yourself on your own Vegas Vacation, you probably won't have any trouble coming up with things to do. But if you're short on time or simply want to streamline your approach, who better to call on than a local who has all the answers for what to do and where to go in Las Vegas?

Sure, the city's home to world-famous casinos, dazzling shows, and unbeatable nightlife, but there are plenty of ways to spend your time in between. We asked a Las Vegas local to dish on spots for scoring the best views, tasting the best brews, getting out of town for a scenic adventure, finding a relaxing hideaway right on the Strip, and fueling up on something besides coffee.

Desiree has been living in Las Vegas for the last 10 years, and is currently a Lyft driver, taking tourists and locals alike to some of her favorite spots as her job. When she isn't driving, she is super involved in the community, as the advisor for the Student Organization of Latinos working to bring more Latin culture to the area, running the food service program at a local high school, and coaching the junior varsity softball and archery teams. If a Las Vegas getaway is in your future, read on to discover some of Desiree's favorite spots in Sin City.

1. Get a view from the top

For one of the best views of Vegas, Desiree says to skip the overpriced High Roller Observation Wheel and instead head up the Stratosphere. If you want to test more than your fear of heights, the tower boasts a number of activities that promise an adrenaline rush, like amusement rides and sky jumping.

2. Grab some fresh brews

If drinks are in order, Desiree suggests going to Ellis Island Casino for some fresh-brewed beer and root beer that's "to die for!" You can tour its brewery and try its impressive permanent selection as well as seasonal specialties.

3. Indulge your inner child

Desiree admits she does have a couple tourist spots she indulges in from time to time. "I love to go to the Coca-Cola and M&M stores!" she exclaims, saying they always have the best gifts there.

4. Escape to a tropical garden

Just a short walk from the Coca-Cola and M&M stores is a beautiful hideaway that will make you feel like you've escaped from the city. The garden at the Tropicana Hotel is "like a tropical island," says Desiree. "You can literally forget you're in Vegas for a few hours."

5. Forget coffee

When asked about her favorite coffee spot, Desiree gave a straightforward answer, "One tip: Forget coffee, this is Vegas!" Instead she recommends opting for a refreshing drink of the adult variety, promising you can get a "killer margarita" downtown at the Mermaids Casino Bar on Fremont Street.

6. Head back to the 1880s

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle or "need a break from the pool," Desiree suggests spending a day in the Red Rock Canyon at Bonnie Springs. Hang out at Bonnie Springs Ranch's Old Nevada Town "to feel like you've inserted yourself into old western times." The entertaining activities and breathtaking scenery are worth the drive.

7. Take it in from a distance

For a quieter night away from the lights of the Strip, take a drive up to "The Look Out." From the top of Lake Mead Boulevard you can see the entire Vegas Valley. Desiree says to think of the locale as "your classic 'make out spot' from high school," the perfect destination for "a tailgate or a 'sit on the hood' kind of night."

Images: ADTeasdale, Supermac1961, Jim, Justin Ennis, Luke H. Gordon, Antti T. Nissinen, Steven Conry, Daniel Ramirez/Flickr