Summer is heating up, especially in places like Viva Las Vegas. Las Vegas, one of America’s newest cities, was built from scratch in the desert to become one of the most iconic destinations worldwide. Anyone who has visited Vegas knows it’s impossible to have a dull moment, but many tourists find themselves too overwhelmed to enjoy it. Choosing between A-list shows, ritzy casinos, and thrilling attractions can become an unnecessary headache. Or maybe you scored tickets to the highly anticipated Sphere only to realize you’re assigned an ‘obstructed view’ seat. Whoops! Even worse. Vegas may be the entertainment capital of the world, but it definitely has its downsides. Plus, summertime in the desert is scorching! Sin City sure draws a crowd by appealing to all walks of life, but it’s certainly not for everyone. These 4 U.S. cities are the best alternatives to Las Vegas this summer:
**Laughlin**
Las Vegas is a popular road trip destination, especially from neighboring states. If you’ve hit the road to Vegas, you may have passed through a town known as a ‘mini Vegas‘ with 10 casinos and a scenic waterfront along the Colorado River. ‘Mini’ is definitely the right word choice, as it’s nowhere near the size of Vegas but very reminiscent of downtown. Far from the glitz and glamour of the Strip, Laughlin is a classic gaming getaway where all the casinos are mainstays rather than seeing shiny new high-rises year after year. Tourists will know exactly what they’re signing up for rather than feeling pressure to pack everything in, like shows, buffets, casinos, and attractions to visit in Vegas. Plus, it’s cheap! While it’s fun to casino-hop in Vegas, doing so in Laughlin may be even more fun as you can bounce along the waterfront casinos for just $5. Yes, all of Nevada is hot in summer, but that makes Laughlin all the more enticing with water activities like jet skiing and boat cruises.
**Biloxi**
One of the most underrated states to vacation in is the Southern belle of Mississippi. No, we’re not necessarily talking about Jackson. Florida may be the most popular southern beach vacation spot, but Mississippi can certainly hold its own. Mississippi’s shores may not be the Maldives, but scattered along the coast are hidden gems with white sand and calm waters. Biloxi is undoubtedly the most fun to vacation. With name-brand hotels and casinos like Margaritaville, Hard Rock, and Harrah’s, you can forget the Vegas crowds and enjoy poolside ocean views of the scenic Gulf Coast. Plus, tourists rave about the fresh seafood, something Vegas can’t claim being smack dab in the desert.
**Atlantic City**
Atlantic City was designed to be the Vegas of the East Coast but never quite lived up to the hype. Perhaps the infamous Vegas mafia said, “this town ain’t big enough for the both of us”. The oceanfront city, which is lined with nice hotels and casinos, has had its fair share of issues, from bankruptcy to poor infrastructure over the years, but the city has kept its chin up and remains a fun destination. In fact, the city is beginning to show signs of life again with new attractions such as Island Waterpark, the world’s largest beachfront indoor waterpark. Despite an iffy reputation, Atlantic City has been a long-held favorite vacation spot for locals, offering pretty beaches and cheap stays at name-brand hotels and casinos.
**Shreveport**
Louisiana is an awesome state to visit, even if gambling isn’t on the docket. New Orleans is an incredible cultural city oozing European vibes while Baton Rouge has been buzzing lately as well. One city flying well under the radar is Shreveport (and Bossier City), a short distance across Texas-Louisiana state lines. Growing up in East Texas, I used to visit frequently as a kid, and I definitely wasn’t gambling! While that is certainly the main draw, there is more to do than visit the plethora of high-end casinos like Bally’s and Margaritaville. The city has intriguing museums and lively festivals throughout the year, as well as some highly underrated cajun cuisine rivaling New Orleans, such as top-rated restaurants like The Blind Tiger and Marilynn’s Place.