IF you're looking for Vegas vibes but don't have a Vegas budget, then a quaint Nevada town is the perfect choice for a fun time. Dubbed a "Mini Vegas on water" by many, the riverfront attraction has 12 casinos, massive tourist attractions, river taxis, and old-school vibes that can entertain people of all ages. Filled with all the fast-paced and exciting vibes of Las Vegas, Nevada without all the hustle and bustle, consider taking a trip to Laughlin, Nevada .
Located about an hour and a half away from the Las Vegas strip, it's an easy drive from the high-stakes city. As Las Vegas expands to include more nightlife, entertainment, and buildings , Laughlin hasn't built a new hotel since the mid-1990s. Founded by Don Laughlin, the owner of the 101 Club in North Las Vegas in 1964, he invested in a small eight-room motel that grew into the Riverside Resort.
Today that property has two hotel towers and more than 1,300 rooms. Don passed away in 2023 but the town is still going strong with a population of about 8,000 people and ten casino hotels, like the Golden Nugget and Harrah's. Between gambling, neon lights, and convenient entertainment, it would be easy to call Laughlin a mini-Vegas by the river, but it's much more than that.
If you're looking for live entertainment, head to the Laughlin Events Center , which seats up to 21,000 people and hosts rodeos, racing, and concerts by arena-level rock and country acts. Don's Celebrity Theater at the previously mentioned Riverside Resort,.
