The Grand Circle

Description:

What started out as the "Bingo Palace" in the 1970s has blossomed into the flagship of the Station Casino properties (with four other locations in Las Vegas and a new one in Henderson). Rooms are spacious and highly affordable, if a bit inconvenient from the action on the Strip. Famous for their excellent Feast Buffet, with carving and omelet stations, the hotel offers a variety of dining choices, from gourmet to fast food. They have kept the gigantic bingo parlor and remodeled and enlarged their casino over the years, so it's state-of-the art. The on-premise Laugh Trax nightclub offers great comedy shows each evening.

Description:

This place is in every sports fan's fantasies, and it really exists. The two-level, 33,000-sq. ft. bar/restaurant has three areas: the Screening Room, the Sports Arena and the Studio Grill. The Screening Room allows viewers to sit back in leather recliners and watch sports surrounded by 14 big screened TVs. The Sports Arena is on the second level and is filled with activities including a football toss, a climbing wall, virtual reality boxing, a duckpin bowling alley, and, of course, video games. The Studio Grill offers food like chicken wings and cheese fries, but also has pastas, ribs, seafood, and steaks. Don't forget to grab a drink while you're at it; even if you want to go play some more games, just put your beer or martini in one of the drink holders built into them. Really!

Description:

Luxury, excitement, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty are all a part of New York-New York. Eat a Coney Island hot dog, ride the Manhattan Express Roller Coaster, be amazed at the Cirque du Soleil show, Zumanity. Rock out at Rok Vegas, down a drink at Coyote Ugly or hoist a draft at Nine fine Irishmen. Luxuriate in the Spa, lounge by the pool, or shop at Harley Davidson or Soho Village. Just like the city, New York-New York never sleeps. At the base of the Statue of Liberty replica, the permanent 9/11 Tribute to Heroes display respectfully preserves some of the thousands of heartfelt artifacts and items that were left at the statue to honor the victims and heroes of those tragic events. Those items not on display are preserved by the University of Nevada - Las Vegas.

Our Local Expert Says:

You can't visit Zion without doing this deservedly classic hike, even if you stop short of the very skinny, very high up final push.

Description:

This is of course the not-to-be-missed hike of Zion. Angels Landing is famous for its views, its drop-offs, and its thigh-blasting climb. It's easy to find a picture spot at the top that makes it look like you're about to step back into sheer nothingness, although you'll be yards away from the edge during your photo shoot. Early mornings and late evenings are best during the blazing and crowded summer months. Remember to seriously check your fear of heights before you tackle this climb; many hikers call it a day at "Chicken-Out Point" (officially Scout Lookout) which still offers nice views without the gut-wrenching proximity of a thousand-foot fall from the aptly-named Angels Landing. Bizarre but true: you can get cell service on top. Please respect your fellow hikers and maintain outdoorsy silence by texting only!

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful and worth it

Description:

Ah, cool and lovely, these pools make a great trek. Consisting of Lower, Middle, and Upper, the Emerald Pools can get crowded, so consider an early start. Sheer drop-offs on the trail make it iffy if you suffer from vertigo or have little children. If you want shade and ease of access, stick to the Lower Pools trail. When to see the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools at their best: after a storm. Mind slippery edges and enjoy the cool gorgeousness of this signature hike.

Our Local Expert Says:

Possibly Zion's best hike for younger kids and less ambitious hikers

Description:

Shaded by leafy cottonwood and boxelder trees, this trail is easy with minor drop-offs. Barely a half-mile long, the paved trail takes you to the lower pool and small waterfalls. Super lush and beautiful, the pool is surrounded by blissfully cooling vegetation and even a fine mist from the waterfall.

Description:

Too hot for you during your visit? Head into the cool, dark recesses of the Zion Canyon Theatre and sit back for a mind-blowing experience as you watch a really big movie! Go ahead, bribe your kids with a cool afternoon option if they've been whining all day. It'll be fun and still educational if you catch the always-playing Treasure of the Gods, which is all about the Park itself. Tip: Check the website for specials and deals that might shave a buck or two off the ticket price.

Description:

This little café has garnered a great deal of press for how forthright the owners are about their, ahem, alternative lifestyle, cheekily referenced in its name, The Merry Wives Café. Food is homemade and hearty, coffee is good, and the Raspberry Lemonade is perfect on a hot Utah day. Decorations on the wall include family photos from many years ago - take a look around, and keep an open mind.

Our Local Expert Says:

Some nice shady spots by the river available

Description:

This campsite does not take reservations, and tends to fill up a little bit faster than Watchman Campground; the sites are shadier and a higher percentage of them have river access. The campground provides restrooms, picnic tables, an RV dump, drinking water and utility sites. Three sites are handicapped-accessible. There are no RV hookups. Fees are $16 per night.

Description:

True to its name, sunset lights up the colorful hoodoos visible from Sunset Point to an almost aching beauty. The swirl of oranges, reds, pinks, whites, tans, and more just beg for photographic capture at this popular spot. Look for notable formations such as Silent City and the majestic, slightly intimidating Thor's Hammer. Birders, watch the skies for hawks, ravens, Cliff Swallows, and Violet-green swallows, among others.

Our Local Expert Says:

Cheap and fast

Description:

Canyon Diner features big breakfasts, western food, and pizza. This unpretentious diner also produces delicious bratwurst, stuffed potatoes, and fried halibut. Please note, no alcohol is served. One of two restaurants at Ruby's Inn (the other is Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room). Okay fare, will fill you up. Don't expect fancy and you won't be disappointed.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Bryce Canyon Shuttle has a stop here

Description:

The Bryce View Lodge has everything visitors need to enjoy their stay at Bryce Canyon…and one of the best views around. Clean rooms, swimming pools, spas, restaurants and shopping are all within walking distance of the Lodge, while activities such as hiking, horseback riding and ATV rides are equally accessible.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great food, and amazing jewelry available from authenticated Native American artisans. And the view! Right above the Escalante River canyon.

Description:

Kiva Koffeehouse is relaxing, plain and simple. Located half way between Escalante and Boulder, Kiva Koffeehouse is well known to those versed in the intricacies of the Escalante Grand National Monument. Grab your coffee and one of many fantastic homemade treats (soups, breads, pastries, etc.), peruse the large library of books devoted to hiking and the nearby outdoors, and spend an afternoon admiring your surroundings and feeling pretty darn good about yourself.

Our Local Expert Says:

A classic that shows off the best of Bryce.

Description:

Another shortie that still reveals a lot of that amazing Bryce scenery, the Navajo Loop is great April through November; winter snows make it impassable. Start at Sunset Point and head down. At the bottom of the switchbacks, look for the two towering Douglas fir trees that have been stretching up toward the sun for over 750 years! Toward then end of this trail, peel your eyes for the hoodoo Twin Bridges as well as the descriptive Thor's Hammer. The Navajo Loop is popular; go early in the day or the evening if you want to avoid hordes of hikers.

Our Local Expert Says:

Classic. Beautiful. Stunning views. Don't miss a stop here, no matter how short your visit.

Description:

From here, you can see the whole of the Bryce Canyon amphitheater, bristling with pointy, colorful hoodoos. Keep an eye out for Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels and Uinta Chipmunks (but please, no feeding the wildlife, no matter how well they try to convince you they are starving. This is not only against Park law, it can be deadly to the cute little critters.). Funny piece of history: Ebenezer Bryce, for whom Bryce Canyon is named, is said to have noted that "It's a hell of a place to lose a cow." As you gaze down upon the crazy jumble of spires and mini-canyons from Bryce Point, you'll probably agree.

Our Local Expert Says:

Do NOT pass through southern Utah without making it a priority to stop by this restaurant & sample its amazing food & atmosphere. Sit outside if it's warm.

Description:

With a seasonal menu built on Buddhist philosophy, it's no wonder that Hell's Backbone Grill has received some of the highest reviews of any restaurants in Utah. Tucked into tiny Boulder, UT, Hell's Backbone Grill takes good food seriously. Founded by Chef-Owners Jen Castle and Blake Spalding, Hell's Backbone Grill has been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, Bon Appetit, and The New York Times, and is a proud member of the Slow Food Organization. Sample plates include Puff Pastry Pesto and Goat Cheese Turnover, Cornmeal-Molasses and Pecan Skillet Trout, and Agave & Lime Grilled Chicken Breast. Truly a transcendent dining experience.

Our Local Expert Says:

Totally cool way to see a national park! Don't miss the opportunity if you visit during a full moon.

Description:

Another Bryce specialty, the Full Moon Hikes are an adventurous (yet safe) and different way to experience a national park. Caveat: make sure you're visiting during a full moon if you want to take advantage! Shadows and moonlight help those hoodoos look downright spectral, spurring on your imagination as the ranger leads. There are some very strict rules about getting tickets as well as honoring your commitment to experience a Full Moon Hike, so be certain to check the website or at the visitor center at least the day before the night of a full moon for specifics.

Description:

Don't come to Milt's Stop & Eat in Moab expecting high molecular gastronomy. Milt's, operating in Moab since 1954, is known for vinyl topped stools, formica countertops and well-priced, delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Milt's Stop & Eat may be a classic burger joint, but they are not lacking for creativity - the Black and Blue Burger is crusted with black pepper and smothered with blue cheese, and the Chicago-style Hot Dog includes a dill pickle, jalapeno peppers, and celery salt. If you don't have a milkshake, you're not living. (favorites of ours are Oreo, Heath Bar, or Coffee flavored).

Our Local Expert Says:

Pets & bikes welcome. Perfect for the Moab adventurer!

Description:

The Gonzo Inn is a one-of-a-kind lodging option for Moab visitors. A retro (circa 1970s) style, a southwest flavor and a decidedly funky vibe all make this creative hotel a fun place to spend your nights. With a pool and hot tub, a bike station and storage, Wi-Fi, a free breakfast and an open invitation for your furry friends, Gonzo has everything you need. Why not stay somewhere a little bit different?

Our Local Expert Says:

Up close and personal with the geologic wonders that comprise Arches.

Description:

The Fiery Furnace is a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and fins. Sudden drop-offs, dead ends, and twisty trails through the mazelike area are all part of the fun! There are no marked trails, and the area has suffered resource damage due to increased visitation. Hikers who want to explore the Fiery Furnace must obtain a permit at the visitor center (fee charged) and watch a minimum impact video.

All visitors are encouraged to sign up for a ranger-guided hike. The park began offering this strongly-encouraged option after many unescorted hikers got lost. Once you've begun this hike, there's no turning back.

Our Local Expert Says:

A classic landmark that you should see if you can.

Description:

This trail leads to Delicate Arch, the signature landmark of Arches National Park. Three miles long with an elevation gain of 480 feet, don't be fooled by mere statistics into thinking this is an easy hike. Completely unshaded, it can knock your socks off if you attempt it on a hot, sunny day. Bring abundant water, a sun-hat, camera, and a hearty constitution if you start midday in the summer! (Actually, we recommend you go early in the morning or to catch the sunset if possible during the hot months.) Absolutely worth every step, however; definitely make sure you see this iconic landmark if you can.

Our Local Expert Says:

Classically spectacular arch, it's a must-see because of its beauty, accessibility, and demonstration of nature's forces at work.

Description:

Spanning 290 feet, Landscape Arch is considered to be the longest natural arch in the world. At its skinniest point, it measures only six feet. Do you want to walk across it? Yeah, neither do we. Of course, you aren't allowed to do that anyway. You can no longer walk beneath it either, in the Park's efforts to reduce any issues from visitors doing just that and being bonked on the head by more falling rock. This old arch, considered to be at the end of its life cycle, might completely collapse at any time, so see it while you still can. This hike is great for younger kids and those pressed for time, as it only takes about 30 minutes to reach from the trailhead parking lot. This hike can also be part of the longer Primitive Loop Hike.

Description:

A loop trail around the base of a fragile, picturesque rock formation.

Description:

The oldest brew pub in the area, Eddie McStiff's is known for its beers with cheeky names (Polygamy Porter, anyone?) and requirement to order food with your drinks. Inspired by many different regions, the menu includes pot stickers, a Mediterranean hummus and olive plate, a burger with blue cheese and caramelized onions, and a variety of nightly specials. Those more technologically inclined will enjoy the free WiFi and numerous outlets around the restaurant. Eddie McStiff's can get quite busy on weekends, so be prepared for a short wait.

Description:

Moab has a couple of good breakfast choices, but none spur quite the devotion and dedication of The Peace Tree Juice Café. All natural and organic, the Peace Tree Juice Café serves hearty (and healthy!) breakfasts of champions, like hummus and veggies wraps, croissant sandwiches, and fresh juice smoothies. Grab a bite to eat before heading out to the parks, or pull up a chair on the patio and people watch all day.

Our Local Expert Says:

This utterly bizarre-looking Mars-scape is the intriguing location of several films

Description:

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Canyonlands, Goblin Valley State Park is a must-see if you are doing the classic Southern Utah Grand Circle loop. Located in Utah's Castle country, wind, water and time have carved thousands of sandstone spires into spooky and impressive shapes; hence the park's name "Goblin Valley." Photographers, families with children and hikers will all appreciate the unique natural beauty of this state park. This is a great day trip for visitors to Arches or Capitol Reef National Parks as well as Canyonlands. There are 25 campsites within the park for guests who want to spend the night. 36 miles southwest of I-70.

Description:

The Island in the Sky mesa rests on sheer sandstone cliffs over 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain. Every overlook offers a different perspective on Canyonlands' spectacular landscape. The Island is the easiest district to visit in a short period of time, offering many pullouts with spectacular views along the paved scenic drive. Hiking trails and four-wheel-drive roads access backcountry areas for day or overnight trips.

Description:

A ranch interior and a western approach to food - MD Ranch Cookhouse isn't going to win any awards for creativity, but it is known for decent prices and large portions. Perfect for families, MD Ranch offers a stellar kids' menu and beer for Mm and Dad. Homemade soups will warm you and buffalo burgers will fill you.

Description:

Taking "the road less traveled" CAN make all the difference, especially if you are camping the backcountry of Arizona's Grand Canyon. Pitch a tent at Crazy Jug Point and feast your eyes on sweeping panoramic views of Grand Canyon National Park, including Fishtail Mesa, Steamboat Mountain and Tapeats Amphitheater. Travelers can obtain overnight backcountry permits, maps, and more at the North Rim Ranger Station, located one mile north of Grand Canyon Lodge along AZ 67. Reservations are recommended.

Description:

Located atop the 800-foot high Stratosphere Tower, this restaurant offers a view of Las Vegas that is unmatched. The room rotates slowly at 360 degrees per hour so you can see the entire city from every angle. The service is superb and the excellent menu features steaks, fresh fish and lobster. Cocktails and a moderately priced wine list are available. Truly, this is an unforgettable dining experience. Afterwards, you can ride the rollercoaster at the top.