You might not think a city nicknamed “Sin City” would have much to offer a mindful traveller, but this desert destination isn’t just for gamblers and bachelor parties. Thousands of performers, artists, and musicians call this city home, bringing a rich arts and movement culture to the city. It’s also surround by epic state and national parks, and abundant in healthy food options. Here’s some of the best:
Arts
Home of Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart & Burning Man sculptures, including Micheal Benisty’s iconic In Every Lifetime, I Will Find You, Area 15 is a creative playground not to be missed.
Check out Vegas’ monthly arts & cultural event, First Friday… obviously on the first Friday of the month.
Ten miles south of Las Vegas is a colorful public art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. Seven Magic Mountains is instagram famous (pictured above) and is a perfect stop driving from Vegas to L.A. off Route 15. It’s free and never needs a reservation.
A 40 feet tall praying mantis that throws giant fire flames is “awakened” at night by a drum circle celebration.
Yoga + Movement
A circus wonderland where many of the city’s acrobats, aerialists & dancers train. Go to trapeze, swing, tumble, and play.
There are plenty of yoga options to choose from in a city full of performers, including Modo, Blue Sky & even a studio called “Sin City Yoga.” Kintsugi is my pick for its meditation classes & beautiful studio.
Shops
A book store that offers free creative writing classes to kids and teens, serves coffee, and hosts book clubs.
This converted motel is an artistic gathering space. The motel rooms have been converted to makers’s shops, selling local goods. Check out Neon Cactus Vintage and Mothership coffee, which boasts perfect roasts and a record collection.
Food
A farm to table spot with an excellent tasting menu.
A vegetarian restaurant with elegant plating and innovative offerings.
LA’s healthy-ish vegan ice cream is now scooping from Resorts World.
The first fully vegan restaurant on the strip.
From Chef John Le, one of the original sushi chefs at SF’s Shizen, a vegan & mostly gluten-free sushi restaurant.
Nature
Valley of Fire State Park
Big horn sheep and rainbow colored rock formations make this one of the best state parks in the country.
Red Rock Canyon National Park
The local park, perfect for sunrise hikes and helicopter rides.
Hot Springs
There are a couple natural hot springs close to the city. Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Springs are excellent. They are closed during the scorching summer months, so check to make sure they are accessible before you soak.
Events for mindful travelers:
- Saturday Dec 2| Denver
Kirtan at Samadhi Yoga, Denver – December 2nd
Sunday Dec 3| OnlineTrauma To Triumph: Beyond the Victim-Perpetrator Dynamic
- Saturday Dec 9| Lafayette
Live Music! – Kirtan at Soul Tree Yoga, Lafayette – December 9th
Sunday Dec 17| New York CitySacred Belly Dance with Maya Luisa: Presented by Reprise
