How commonly do you plan a Vegas trip around nothing?

Question

I've been to Vegas at least 50 times since the mid 90's and I can't remember ever going to Vegas and not having at least one, if not several events lined up. Especially since the VGK came to town, but even well before that I always had a couple of shows, concerts or whathaveyou lined up.

I think that streak is going to come to an end in March. I have a 5 night stay booked in mid-March where there is absolutely *nothing* I want to see or do - event wise. No sports, no concerts, no commedians, magicians, nada. I've looked at every venue, entertainment calendar from the far south to downtown - and there's nothing interesting for me. I briefly had my hopes up to see the Scorpions final show at Ph -- but even that was cancelled the day I got serious about buying a ticket.

So, I'm super keen to head to Vegas to just chill around some beers and a bit of gambling -- hopefully there's some interesting Hockey and Basketball at the sports venues -- but that will be it.

Am I unique here in that almost every trip I take has some sort of "headline event" worked into it?

Answer

You're certainly not alone in wanting to experience Vegas around a "headline event," especially if you've visited so many times before. Many people do plan their Vegas trips with specific activities in mind, whether it’s a concert, show, or a sporting event like the VGK games. For those who are repeat visitors like yourself, the thrill often comes from planning around these events, which are part of the reason people flock to Vegas in the first place.

However, taking a trip to Vegas just to relax, enjoy some gambling, and maybe catch a game or two is a perfectly valid way to spend time there as well. Some visitors really enjoy the opportunity to just "chill," without the pressure of a packed schedule. It’s a chance to explore the city at your own pace, discover new bars or restaurants, and simply take in the atmosphere. Vegas can be a fantastic destination for relaxation, too, even without a major event on the horizon. Here are some options for your downtime:

Gambling and Sports: Vegas is known for its bustling casinos and sports books. You can always find action on the tables or slots, and if you're interested in sports, the betting options are endless. Many sports bars and lounges offer a great environment to catch hockey or basketball games while enjoying a drink or meal.
Relaxing at Resorts: Given that you’ll be there for five nights, it might be nice to take advantage of the resorts' amenities like pools, spas, or even just a quiet afternoon with a drink at a poolside bar. Resorts like the Bellagio, Venetian, or Mandalay Bay have beautiful pools and lounges that can make for a relaxing experience without needing a major event.
Exploring Vegas Off the Strip: If you want a break from the usual Strip attractions, you could spend some time exploring lesser-known spots like the Neon Boneyard, local eateries, or even the Fremont Street Experience. Some of the best moments in Vegas are found off the beaten path.

As for your question about whether you're unique, you certainly aren't alone in seeking out events during a Vegas trip. In fact, many people tend to plan their vacations around specific shows or events, especially if they're there for the first time or on a special occasion. However, there’s also a growing trend of people visiting Vegas just to experience the energy of the city without the need for a major event. Many return visitors are more inclined to take it easy, play some poker, try a new restaurant, and see what happens. It’s all part of the Vegas experience.

In the end, Vegas is about having fun, whether it’s at a concert or just enjoying the city's atmosphere and vibe. If you’re looking for a more low-key trip this time around, you can still have an amazing time even without the big events!