They say what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, but we’re eager to share. Style at Home editor-in-chief Erin McLaughlin visited Sin City and found there’s more to it than glitz and kitsch. Here, she shares her favourite stops at hotels along the strip.

Illustration by Emilie Simpson

Mandalay Bay
Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium and dive with sharks (yikes!), rays and other fishes before you head to the sandy (and shark-free) beach, where you can rent a cabana and enjoy a frozen cocktail. 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S., mandalaybay.com.

Photography courtesy of MGM Resorts International

Aria
The newest hotel resort on the strip, Aria’s highlights include Cirque du Soleil’s latest Las Vegas show, Zarkana, and Javier’s, a to-die-for Mexican restaurant with the best hand-shaken margaritas. 3730 Las Vegas Blvd. S., arialasvegas.com.

Photography courtesy of MGM Resorts International

Bellagio
The opening of this hotel and casino in 1998 initiated Vegas’s transformation into a trendy and luxurious destination. Make sure to eat at the Picasso restaurant, which has a fantastic menu and original paintings by the famous artist. Also, check out the butterflies at Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. The fountains, of course, are not to be missed. 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S., bellagio.com.

MGM Grand
My favourite restaurant by far was Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand, with its fine French cuisine. Even the handchurned butter comes beautifully presented in a cloche. There’s limited seating, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance. After your meal, take the Las Vegas Monorail from the hotel to any of the seven stops along the strip for fast and easy travel. 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S., mgmgrand.com.