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Budget Travel: 36 Hours in Las Vegas

Vegas is a great town. You can do so many things in this city to stay entertained with everything from dining to skydiving, clubbing and more. But, if you’re like me and money for a vacation doesn’t come around often, then how do you do Vegas on a budget?

Not to worry, living in Vegas and doing so on a budget has helped me find the ultimate in cheap entertainment and fun.

FRIDAY

1 p.m.
First things first: where to stay. It’s a fact that Circus Circus Las Vegas has amazing rates that allow you to spend less money on a room. When you think about it, unless you plan on having parties in your room, you’ll probably not even be there most of the time anyway.

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. Circus Circus probably equates to a lot of kids roaming about. So if that’s not ideal for you, another great option is Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. It’s at the center of the Strip and has amazing rates, even on the weekends.

When you check in to your hotel, ask for any guest discounts or comps that may be available to you, just in case they have any specials you can capitalize on.

2:30 p.m.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel and become settled, it’s time to get out onto the Strip and get your grub on. Head down to Tacos & Tequila inside of the Luxor Hotel and Casino for some people watching, drinking and snacking. You can enjoy hanging out until 6 p.m. (when their happy hour ends) and nosh on $4 al a carte tacos with either $5 Dos Equis, well drinks, sangria or wine. Or just get a bucket of beers for $18.

6:15 p.m.
Okay, now you’ve got a good buzz on, it’s time to catch some entertainment. You can always head to the Strip for some free people watching or, if you’re in the mood for a good comedy show check out the Riviera Comedy Club. They have rotating comedians and tickets starting at $29.99 for general admission. I recommend opting for the two-drink package that starts at $31.79.

SATURDAY

10:30 a.m.
Today is the day for your big Vegas meal and the best place with the best price are at  The Mirage Hotel & Casino Cravings Buffet. Pricing starts at $29.99 for all you can eat with their champagne brunch. Unlimited champagne, now that's a great way to start the day.

1 p.m.
Now that you’ve eaten a massive meal and, quite possibly, had to lay down in sweatpants to recoup, it’s best that you get back on your feet and head out to walk it off. Take a jaunt to the Fountains of Bellagio to revel in the beauty of this free and popular outdoor water show. While you’re there, step inside to check out the Bellagio Conservatory. This is a stunning indoor display of constantly changing flowers, trees and other shrubbery. It will be a fresh of breath air.

4:30 p.m.
Is it time to grub again yet? Most likely. Plus, you’re probably feeling famished from all that walking. Take a short walk to The Quad where you will find O’Sheas Pub and their amazingly cheap draft beers. Plus you can relive some history and try your hand at the king of college games: beer pong.

9:30 p.m.
You’ve got two options for your Saturday night out. Get to Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino before 10 p.m. you can get into 1923 Bourbon & Burlesque for free. My favorite spot in town, it’s an amazing place to grab a spot at the bar, order an epic cocktail (King Fresa) and enjoy burlesque vignettes with a live lounge singer. If you order an old fashioned, just watch out as you might get the dancing fever, which is encouraged.

SUNDAY

10 a.m.
Okay, it’s your final few hours and you don’t want to load up on a heavy meal before the plane, so head to the Bouchon Bakery at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino for breakfast. Choose from freshly created sandwiches, a variety of quiche offerings or their amazing macarons.

11: 15 a.m.
Once you have checked out of the hotel, you can get in a little adrenaline rush at the Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York New York Hotel & Casino, which only sets you back $14 or for those looking to chill a bit before heading out, take a Gondola Ride at the Venetian through their Grand Canal Shoppes for $18.95.