Hotels of Las Vegas

Just when you thought you had seen it all, the Fall of Atlantis fountain show will captivate you with its stunning special effects. Located in the Forum Shops, next to The Cheesecake Factory, the free fountain show uses lifelike animatronic figures to recount the myth of Atlantis.

The story unfolds as King Atlas tries to determine which of his children will rule Atlantis. The siblings try to destroy each another, poisoning the kingdom with their greed. Finally, the gods decide to step in and settle the dispute, launching the Fall of Atlantis. A 20-foot winged beast appears from behind Atlas’ throne and watches over the destruction as Atlantis is consumed by fire and then flooding water.

Surrounding monitors add to the drama of the show with a variety of visual displays. Be sure to get to the show a few minutes early to grab a good spot; the area gets crowded quickly.

Once the show concludes, take a walk behind the fountain and check out more than 100 species of ocean life in a 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.

You can watch as a diver feeds the tropical puffers, flounder, sharks and the rest of the aquarium’s inhabitants each day at 1:15 and 5:15 p.m. A second staff person is present during feeding times to answer any questions you might have. In addition, tours of the aquarium’s facilities are offered Monday through Friday at 3:15 p.m.

At the west end of the mall is the Festival Fountain show, featuring an animatronic discussion between Bacchus, Venus, Apollo and Pluto as well as a laser light show.

X Scream takes the scream right out of you.X Scream is one scary experience, dangling thrill seekers hundreds of feet from earth.

Simply being perched atop the observation deck on the Stratosphere Tower, the eighth-tallest building in the world, is intimidating enough. But the one minute ride takes it a little bit further. The arm of X Scream stretches out 27 feet over the edge of the tower.

Passengers are loaded into an eight-seat car on the high-tech teeter-totter and hoisted high into the air before the track dives at a 30-degree angle, taking the car and your nerves with it.

After reaching speeds of 30 mph, the car jerks to a sudden halt at the end of the track, with nothing but 900 feet of air between you and the ground.

X Scream is a new generation of extreme thrill rides, playing on the passenger’s primal fear of falling. However, passengers can find comfort in the ride’s four independent locking mechanisms on each chair and titanium restraining bars. X Scream also has a manual return mechanism in case of power failure.

In any case, X Scream may just be the ultimate thrill ride in the world.

Since its opening in 1996, the 1,149-foot-tall Stratosphere Tower has captured the attention of celebrities and tourists alike. Set at an astounding 869 feet high with a 360-view of the city, the Stratosphere’s outdoor observation deck is the tallest of its kind in the country.

“It has such a rock star view,” said Michael Gilmartin, vice president of public relations at the Stratosphere hotel and casino. “It’s off the beaten path and well worth the experience.”

The deck is so high up that you can see helicopters at eye level. But even riding in one of the helicopters can’t compare to the thrill of the Stratosphere rides, which overlook the Strip from the top of the tower.

“These rides are probably the most intense in the world,” Gilmartin said. “I guarantee if your shoes fell off, you’re not going to find them!”

While Las Vegas is the ultimate party destination, there are quite a few people who visit exclusively for the thrill rides. The Stratosphere offers three out-of-this world rides sure to get you screaming.

These rides include the Big Shot, the world’s highest thrill ride, at an astounding 112 stories high. Next is Insanity, which makes riders feel like they’re floating 900 feet above the ground. And for those who loved riding on the teeter totters during recess, the X Scream definitely gives this popular playground favorite a kick.

“X Scream is basically a teeter totter over the edge,” Gilmartin said. “There’s no other ride like it in the world.”

If these rides seem too intense, there’s no need to miss out on all the fun. Visitors can still watch their adventurous friends on the rides from the 857-foot high indoor deck.

“It’s a multi-faceted attraction,” said Gilmartin. “The easiest way to sum it up is that there’s something for all ages.

“I think there are a lot of things to compete with when you come here,” Gilmartin continued. “Our challenge is getting people down here. But once they get down here, I think they’re really impressed.”

Gilmartin said the best time to come out to the deck is near sunset. Guests can admire the rainbow of colors in the sky followed by the lights illuminating the city just minutes after.

For a romantic evening with a view, guests can also wine and dine at the Top of the World restaurant. This restaurant features a moving floor which takes a complete hour to rotate a full 360 degrees. After dinner, guests can relax in the intimate setting of Romance Lounge.

The Stratosphere takes the concept of fear beyond the extreme with Insanity — The Ride, and you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity.Extending 64 feet over the north edge of the tower, the inverted centrifuge spins passengers at up to three Gs. And as the speed increases, riders are pulled out in “escape-proof” seats to an angle of 70 degrees, with nothing to look at but the Las Vegas Strip more than 900 feet below.

Insanity — The Ride is the crowning achievement of the Stratosphere’s mission to corner the thrill ride market. Joining the Big Shot and X Scream, Insanity — The Ride is nestled atop the Stratosphere Tower, the tallest building west of the Mississippi at 1,149 feet.

One of the best features of Insanity — The Ride is its diversity. Because it is completely programmable by the operator with more than 100 ride variations, passengers can go on it time and again, enjoying a different experience each time.

Truly the next generation of extreme thrill rides, Insanity — The Ride will leave you breathless, but full of adrenaline.

3…2…1…blast-off!Soar off into space and be one with the astronauts as you’re launched 160 feet in a mere 2.5 seconds at 45 mph, getting a taste of weightlessness as 4 Gs of force lift you literally off your seat. (Astronauts experience about 3.2 Gs on lift-off.)

Riders then drop to 0 Gs and bungee up and down the mast three times and practically float back to the launch pad one minute later.

Reaching a maximum height of 1,049 feet (including the Stratosphere Tower), the Big Shot is the ultimate rush. You’ll want to ride it over and over again — and if you do, be sure to take advantage of the half-price deal for second-time riders.

But beware, this ride is not for the faint of heart.

Located within the cozy Silverton Hotel, a 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium provides entertainment on a scale one can enjoy only in Las Vegas.

Located in the Mermaid Restaurant & Lounge, the octagonal aquarium is part of the $150 million casinowide expansion and is home to more than 5,000 exotic fish as well as vibrant, breathtaking coral. Also among the fish are three species of stingrays and three species of sharks.

Three times a day, passersby can enjoy fish feedings held by a marine biologist who interacts with guests and answers any questions.

Gameworks, located right on the Las Vegas Strip inside the Showcase Mall, offers state-of-the-art games and attractions for the entire family.

A joint venture of Sega Enterprises and Universal Studios, the facility measures approximately 55,000 square feet and can hold up to 3,000 people.

GameWorks offers something for everyone. Where else can you be a firefighter, a police officer, a professional snowboarder, skier or race car driver, all in one arena? Featuring 200-plus interactive games, GameWorks has just about everything imaginable.

Into racing? This mega-arcade features everything, including games based on the hit movie, ”The Fast and the Furious” and the popular Japanese anime, “Initial D.” There is even an “Initial D” motion ride, where players can capture the full effect of mountain drift racing. If street racing isn’t your bag, the Indy500 game allows you to race against several others side by side. There is a screen above each seat that shows the driver during the race.

For a trip to the wild side, visitors can race on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle or hop on unique vehicles like ATVs, WaveRunners and much more.

And for those who appreciate the original Nintendo (or even Atari!) era, GameWorks also features old-school games like PacMan, Mario Kart and Space Wonder, to name a few. And of course, what’s an arcade without pinball machines and air hockey tables?

GameWorks also carries an array of shooting games, virtual dance stations and sports-oriented games. Even ‘tween girls will find games catered to their lifestyle. Guests can try and win a Hello Kitty doll or create their own girl cartoon collector’s card.

One of the highlights at Gameworks is Virtual Bowling. Players roll an actual bowling ball down a short lane, where sensors detect the speed and direction of the ball. The ball then disappears into a “virtual world,” where the reaction and impact of the ball shows up on a large screen. Guests can hear the sound of knocking pins. This area has plenty of tables and chairs so you can relax and eat while waiting for your turn.

GameWorks is definitely not just for kids — adults can have fun, too. On the second floor, it’s a completely different vibe. Glacier Bar serves as the ideal escape from the blazing summer heat with its icicle-looking décor and cool, brisk temperatures. Guests can sip on signature martinis and specialty cocktails in a refreshing atmosphere.

With its dim lighting and energizing music, the 21 and older section, The Loft, possesses a nightclub feel. There are plenty of couches, intimate seating, a billiards area and a great view of the arcade area below. This way, parents (or older siblings) can keep an eye on the younger ones and still have a good time. Guests can also rent out the VIP rooms, which are ideal for poker games and bachelorette parties.

GameWorks also specializes in special event planning for large groups and conventions. Several dining options are available, including a breakfast, pasta, pizza or fiesta buffet, bar packages, timed arcade play cards and unlimited drinks. For an additional cost, GameWorks can provide live entertainment, a DJ, Sonic the Hedge Hog appearances and even interactive challenges in the arcade area.

For a quick bite, the GameWorks Grill offers a casual atmosphere featuring comfort food such as chicken, steak, seafood, ribs, pizza and even fun desserts for two.

From toddlers and ‘tweens to adults and corporate gatherings, GameWorks provides ongoing entertainment for every demographic.

Stepping into M&M’s World is like waking up to chocolate heaven — four floors of chocolate heaven, that is.

If you’re coming in from the Strip, you’ll notice the charming seasonal display in the front window. Once you set foot inside this M&M’s wonderland, you’ll immediately feel the energy of its bright colors and upbeat music. On the main floor, choose from a variety of personalized key chains, charms, mugs and every souvenir imaginable. If you can’t find your name, no worries — you can actually customize your own ID tag.

The second floor is truly phenomenal. From teal to light purple, the rainbow wall features 22 different M&M’s colors — what a treat! A few steps away, visitors can browse through a wide selection of candy dispensers and T-shirts. These tees poke fun with catchy logos like  “Candy of the Opera” and “American Chocolate.”

The third floor is dedicated entirely to collector’s items. One of the coolest things you’ll see here is the $275 M&M’s guitar. If you’re a fan of Swarovski crystal, you find a sparkling assortment of M&M’s bling. Or, if purses are more your thing, select from a fine collection of bags made from actual M&M’s wrappers.

On the fourth and final floor, you’ll find suitcases, lunch bags, home décor and even sweaters for your pet. On this floor, you’ll also get an up-close look  at #18, a replica of Kyle Busch’s M&M’s sponsored race car.

If you want to bring home some creative gifts, choose from a selection of beachwear, games like M&M’s Monopoly and dominoes, back scratchers, golf club covers, martini glasses, Frisbees and much more. For the cook in the family, you’ll find a variety of barbecue aprons with witty phrases like, “Is Something Burning?” or “I Am Smokin’ Hot.”

As you’re traveling between floors by escalator, you’ll see a timeline of how the M&M’s characters evolved throughout the years. These walls showcase humorous movie posters as well.

And speaking of movies, you can catch a 3-D film while you’re here. Movies play from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

M&M’s World truly brings out the kid in all of us. It’s a colorful, chocolate dream you’ll never want to wake up from.

ver wonder how they do that? Visitors can now take a behind-the-scenes tour of Star Trek: The Experience and learn how the Klingon Encounter and BORG Invasion 4D attractions give visitors the feeling that they truly have been transported to another space and time.

Some of the attraction’s most guarded secrets (how guests are “transported” to the Starship Enterprise, the meaning of coded messages throughout the paneling on both rides, a one-of-a-kind view of the motion rides in action) are revealed on the tour as visitors are invited to explore once-classified areas of the attraction and discover the magic and mystery that make up Star Trek: The Experience.

During Star Trek: The Experience — Secrets Unveiled, guests are guided throughout the facility by two tour ambassadors with the help of individual headsets and walkie-talkies. Some of the stops along the way are the Star Trek Museum, the bridge of the Starship Enterprise and the dressing room where actors become a variety of fearsome lifeforms.

Each tour is unique, and what guests have a chance to see depends on timing and the various opportunities that present themselves. Because of this, the length of the tour sometimes exceeds an hour. Star Trek: The Experience — Secrets Unveiled concludes with a presentation of certificates to participants and a chance to sign the tour guest book.

It’s probably a good idea to go on the rides at Star Trek: The Experience before you take the tour, it gives you better insight, but it’s not necessary. And whether or not you are a Trekkie, you will soon understand how Star Trek has outlasted the test of time and retained such a devoted following.

Home to two exciting attractions, Klingon Encounter and BORG Invasion 4D, Star Trek: The Experience provides visitors with a very realistic experience through the use of live interaction and motion simulators. Some may even say chillingly realistic.

BORG Invasion 4D: As unsuspecting visitors tour a research facility, they are attacked by the BORG, who try to capture and assimilate them. The experience is all too real, with the utilization of 3D and 4D effects, as well as live actors.

Tickets are good for the entire day, so you can leisurely stroll through the “History of the Future” exhibit, which displays Star Trek props, weaponry, spacecraft and award-winning masks and costumes.

Klingon Encounter: Visitors are “accidentally” beamed onto the Starship Enterprise, just as it is being attacked by several Klingon warships. In an effort to escape, visitors hurry to a shuttle bay, where they board a 27-car shuttle and attempt to make their way home.

Quark’s Bar and Restaurant and Deep Space Nine promenade:Quark’s Bar and Restaurant, which can be found in the Deep Space Nine promenade, is a galactic pit stop offering tasty concoctions that are out of this world. The Deep Space Nine Promenade also houses the Promenade shops, where you can check out the world’s largest collection of Star Trek memorabilia and collectibles and perhaps purchase a souvenir.

Souvenir photos: Now you can take a souvenir photo in the Captain’s Chair on the Bridge of the Starship Enterprise or in an authentic BORG Regeneration Chamber. Photos are $14.99 each or $24.99 for both. Scheduled times for photos are 12:45, 2:45, 4:45, and 6:45 p.m. and participants must sign up ahead of time at the ticket booth.

Star Trek: The Experience — Secrets Unveiled: Ever wonder how they do that? Visitors can now take a behind-the-scenes tour of Star Trek: The Experience and learn how the Klingon Encounter and BORG Invasion 4D rides make visitors feel as if they have truly been transported to another space and time.