VIVA VIBES
US city dubbed ‘Mini Vegas on water’ has 10 casino resorts, huge golf ranges, and river taxis
For as low as $5 a ride you can travel between waterside casinos
IF you're looking for a Las Vegas getaway but don't have a Sin City budget, then a nearby Nevada town may be the perfect alternative.
Dubbed a "Mini Vegas" on the Colorado River, the community is fun for all ages thanks to its 10 casinos, tourist attractions, and river taxis.
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Laughlin, Nevada has all the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip without all the hustle and bustle.
The town is a mere hour and a half drive from Sin City, but its charm is entirely its own.
As Las Vegas continues to expand its tourist offerings, Laughlin hasn't built a new hotel since the mid-1990s, according to Thrillist.
NIGHTLIFE
Laughlin is named after its late founder, Don Laughlin, who owned the 101 Club in Las Vegas when he purchased the land in 1964.
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The gambling entrepreneur started with an eight-room motel that is now known as the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino.
Laughlin passed away in 2023, but his family continues to operate the property, which has grown to two towers with more than 1,300 rooms.
There are a total of ten casino resorts in the area, including Harrah's Laughlin and Golden Nugget.
The town itself has a population of about 8,000 people, and there is plenty for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
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If you're looking for live entertainment, head to the Laughlin Events Center, which hosts rodeos, racing, and concerts.
Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, and Dolly Parton are just some of the stars who have performed at the large outdoor arena, which seats 21,000 people.
Don's Celebrity Theater at the Riverside Resort, the newly renovated Edgewater Pavillion, and Harrah's Rio Vista Amphitheater also bring in crowds for headliners.
The Rush Lounge and Losers' Lounge are prime spots to enjoy the nightlife in Laughlin.
The latter features framed photos of historic "losers," including the late O.J. Simpson, according to Thrillist.
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GOLF GAMES
If you're an avid golf fan, then you can get your swing on at the five courses in Laughlin.
For those who aren't skilled at the spot, there are challenging surfaces for players of all skill levels.
Open all year round, there are beautiful settings and spectacular views that the whole family can enjoy.
Just be sure to reserve your tee time in advance.
RIVER RIDES
With its location on the Colorado River, Laughlin offers activities that you can't find on the Las Vegas Strip.
The yacht company Grand Celebration offers day cruises for travelers, while adventure seekers can enjoy jet skiing on the water.
Jet Boat Tours takes visitors down the river to Lake Havasu and passes by the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge.
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Laughlin also has water taxis that travel between casino docks, if you want to hop between venues.
They are as low as $5 a ride, and wristbands are available for those interested in unlimited daily rides.
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