This article originally appeared in Good Housekeeping.

From the colossus Caesars Palace, the grandaddy of The Strip, New York, New York with its giant rollercoaster, and The Venetian, which brings the Grand Canals of Venice to the desert, complete with gondolas – Las Vegas is the most fun city in the US and should be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

While gambling and entertainment are very much the focus, it's not to say there's a dearth of culture in this desert city. Catch a touring exhibition in the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, witness works by Dali, Picasso and Warhol in the Martin Lawrence Galleries in Caesars Palace, or visit Art Square in Las Vegas Arts District, a clutch of modern art galleries and performance spaces.

Of course, Las Vegas is not the only attraction in the Nevada desert. Venture out from The Strip to find dramatic canyons, winding rivers and spectacular state parks to explore. It's also a launch pad for exploring the Grand Canyon.

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