Trip Planner 2016-17 Trip Planner For Group Leaders | Page 24

I Want to Go There | U.S. West VIRGINIA TRUDEAU AND DEEDEE SHERMAN Smith Center for the Performing Arts Nevada Ballet Theatre Part of Las Vegas’ star-power appeal comes from the seemingly endless parade of A-list musicians, performers and comedians that the city has been bringing to its stages over the past five decades. And, while the city remains an entertainment mecca, it also is forging a reputation as a popular spot for the fine arts. Opened in 2012, the Smith Center for the Performing Arts covers five acres in downtown Las Vegas’ Symphony Park. The center, which is the permanent home of the Nevada Ballet Theatre and the Las Vegas Philharmonic, includes three theaters in two buildings, as well as a 17-story tower with 47 bells. Visitors can see live theatrical, dance and music performances in the 2,050-seat Reynolds Hall. The two other venues—the 258-seat Cabaret Jazz Theater and the 250-seat Troesh Studio Theater—offer flexible space for more intimate shows and rehearsals, and the Donald W. Reynolds Symphony Park’s two-acre lawn is the site of outdoor concerts. Groups also can book guided tours of the Smith Center and take part in workshops with performers. Another top cultural destination in downtown is the 18b Las Vegas Arts District. This area, which is home to a number of galleries and studios, antique stores, boutiques and restaurants, plays host to many 22 trip planner Las Vegas Philharmonic special events. The First Friday Art Walk has become a must-do for visitors and residents alike, regularly drawing up to 30,000 people. Located between Bellagio and the Excalibur on the Strip, CityCenter Las Vegas beckons culture lovers. Travelers can see art installations and sculptures that are part of the CityCenter Fine Art Collection as they walk between the property’s high-rise megaresorts. To learn more, contact John Meyer of the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority at [email protected] or visit lasvegas.com. TOP ATTRACTIONS The Park, the Fountains at Bellagio, The High Roller observation wheel, Viva Vision Light Show at the Fremont Street Experience TOP FESTIVALS National Finals Rodeo (Dec. 1–10, 2016), America’s Party-New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31, 2016), Vegas Uncork’d (April 2017) TOP CULINARY EXPERIENCES The Eiffel Tower Restaurant, Picasso Restaurant, Lip Smacking Foodie Tours BRIAN JONES/LAS VEGAS NEWS BUREAU MARK DAMON/LAS VEGAS NEWS BUREAU LAS VEGAS