LAS VEGAS — Las Vegas has been building quite the reputation for itself lately as an up-and-coming sports mecca and, of course, there’s always the world-class entertainment.
Travelweek was recently treated to the Vegas sports and entertainment experience in high style, having the opportunity to feel the palpable buzz firsthand.
The city’s sports scene cred has been bolstered in recent years with the arrival of big-league franchises.
Starting with the NHL, back in 2017 the Vegas Golden Knights hockey team debuted at T-Mobile Arena, known to fans as ‘The Fortress’. Less than six years later, in 2023 the Golden Knights were Stanley Cup champions.
Meanwhile Oakland’s NFL team relocated in 2020 to become the Las Vegas Raiders in a brand-new home, Allegiant Stadium, affectionately dubbed ‘The Death Star.’
Not only that, but it seems as if MLB’s Oakland A’s will be moving to Las Vegas too, with plans to play ball in 2028 at the earliest now that MLB’s 30 team owners have unanimously approved the move.
The locals also like to provide a friendly reminder to visitors that the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces also play here, at Michelob ULTRA Arena.
FUN WAY TO SEE A HOMETOWN TEAM IN ACTION
The Vegas Golden Knights are known for their pre-game ceremonies, complete with over-the-top theatrics and special effects. It doesn’t have much to do with hockey but fits the motif of never-ending entertainment that goes hand-in-hand with Las Vegas.
Hockey fans who like to follow their hometown team on the road now have an excellent opportunity to do so in a destination with as much excitement and boundless entertainment options as Sin City.
Vegas Golden Knights host the Calgary Flames at T-Mobile Arena, also known as ‘The Fortress’
For NFL fans, Allegiant Stadium is the place to be on game day – it’s as if everyone in town is heading to the stadium for kickoff. The new structure does seem a bit cold and lacking in personality – perhaps the reasons for ‘The Death Star’ nickname, would be the guess of this non-Star Wars person. That said, the field was very well lit, which helped keep the focus on the action on the field where it belongs. And maybe it was something to do with the franchise-record 63 points the home team scored, but the local Raiders fans were extremely friendly, welcoming and chatty.
Attending a Raiders game provides another great chance to follow your favourite team on the road and witness all the splendours and enjoy all the fun that Las Vegas has to offer.
Of course this coming Sunday, Feb. 11, Allegiant Stadium will be home to Super Bowl LVIII. It’s the first time the city will host the big game. In grand Las Vegas style, eight-time Grammy winner Usher will be performing the halftime show as the San Francisco 49ers face off against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Also worthy of note from a sporting perspective, in another first the city successfully hosted its first-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix, minus a few year-one hiccups, this past November. The second edition is ready and set to go for Nov. 21-23.
THE SPHERE: SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT
One would be remiss to overlook all the first-class entertainment options that Las Vegas has for clients to enjoy in between matches.
One new attraction that’s currently drawing a great deal of attention is The Sphere. Built at a cost of US $2.3 billion, with a capacity of 18,600 in seats and up to 20,000 when including the floor, its advanced audio and video capabilities, with wraparound LED screen and 4D physical effects, have left many calling it a ‘game changer’ in a city that has already had so many.
Travelweek was lucky enough to take in the film ‘Postcard from Earth’ at The Sphere, and it was certainly a worthwhile experience. Word to the wise: the stairs to reach The Sphere seats are very steep, as seating is at a sharp angle for optimal viewing. The screen wraps around in all directions, even making it a strain on the neck to capture every last angle, and the definition on the picture is so high that what’s on the screen seems more real than real life itself.
‘Postcard from Earth’ plays at The Sphere in Las Vegas
NONSTOP ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS APLENTY
As it’s Vegas, the name of the game is nonstop, wall-to-wall entertainment, well beyond professional sporting events. Even the National Finals Rodeo was in town, so cowboys and cowgirls were everywhere.
The ever-popular ‘O by Cirque du Soleil’ continues at The Bellagio. It’s an aquatic-themed performance that marvels with whimsy, song and acrobatics.
Foodies will get a kick out of the fancy casino buffets, like the sprawling one at Wynn Las Vegas. High-end dining options abound in Las Vegas.
To combine a meal with some fun activity, try the Flight Club’s Social Darts located within the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas.
For an off-the-beaten path experience, visit the unique AREA15 entertainment venue, highlighted by the innovative and quirky interactive museum known as ‘Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart.’
It’s certain there will never be a dull moment in Las Vegas for any client looking for entertainment – and increasingly, pro sports action too.
To learn more about the destination, check out VisitLasVegas.com or LVCVA.com.
