'I thought this tourist hotspot wasn't for me. Then a girls' trip changed my mind completely.'

A girls' trip is the kind of reset you didn't know you needed.

Think long lunches that roll into cocktail hour, spa sessions, poolside lounging, indulgent food and those unexpected bucket list moments you'll be reliving for months.

And the destination that delivers it all? Las Vegas.

I've just come back from the ultimate girls' getaway in Vegas, and I've been raving about it ever since.

Sure, there are the iconic casinos, nightclubs and hotels — but what really stood out was the seriously underrated foodie scene (who knew?), the architecture, and even hints of wellness for those of us quietly approaching the mid-year slump.

So, if a girls' trip, special birthday or hen's party is on the cards, I've pulled together the only guide you need to experience the best of Vegas.

Where to stay.

Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World.

This hotel blends everything-in-one-place convenience with rooms that are both modern and comfy. There's a touch of luxury around every corner — expect chandeliers, seven pools to choose from (yes, seven!), and bars, nightclubs and restaurants that are all within a minute's walk of your room.

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What to do in Vegas.

Lapis Spa and Wellness, Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

A spa day with the girls already feels indulgent — but this place was other-worldly.

With a day pass, we enjoyed full access to the sauna and steam rooms, a Himalayan salt room, star and snow showers, and plunge pools. Some of which — ahem, the snow shower — I didn't even know were a thing.

After floating between these, we ended our spa day in the only way that made sense: curled up in cosy blankets in the stargazing lounge.

The co-ed pool and stargazing lounge. Image: Lapis Spa and Wellness.

Maverick Helicopters Wind Dancer Grand Canyon Flight.

Keen to tick the Grand Canyon of our respective bucket lists, we jumped on a helicopter tour from the Vegas airport.

We flew over the Hoover Dam and Mojave Desert, before landing in the Grand Canyon's Hualapai Indian Territory for champagne on a private bluff, overlooking the Colorado River. Just a causal Saturday.

If you're going to do the Grand Canyon, this is how you do it.

Image: Supplied.

Arts District Lip Smacking Foodie Tour.

If you want an award-winning, off-Strip dining experience in Las Vegas, this foodie tour is a must. Set in the lively Arts District, we visited three standout local spots: Esther's Kitchen, Palate and The Pepper Club.

The guides' close ties with the chefs made every stop feel curated, meaning we got a delicious taste of everything from handmade pastas to modern American cuisine.

Image: Supplied/Instagram/@palatelasvegas.

Magic Mike Live Las Vegas, Sahara Las Vegas.

A Magic Mike show is a given on any girls' trip.

We sat back and copped a few cheeky surprises — including spontaneous lap dances and twirls around the room from some very handsome men.

But don't be fooled by the playful banter and good looks — this show is seriously technical, complete with stunts, live piano serenades and acrobatics. We even scored passes to meet the cast backstage (and yes, I have photos).

Image: Supplied.

DAYLIGHT Beach Club, Mandalay Bay.

Just a quick drive to Mandalay Bay, we pulled up to DAYLIGHT Beach Club and were instantly in holiday mode — cocktail in hand, lounging under the sun. The vibe was relaxed and easygoing, perfect for unwinding or dancing if the mood strikes.

We had a private cabana right by the DJ, with a balcony, plunge pool, day bed and its own lounge area — ideal for a special occasion or simply living your best dayclub life.

Image: Supplied.

Bellagio, Las Vegas.

If you're after a bit of culture on your girls' trip, the Bellagio has you covered with two seriously impressive spots.

The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art shows rotating exhibitions of classic and contemporary artists, and its elegant setting makes it a peaceful place to soak up the city's refined side.

Then, the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a colourful indoor garden with seasonal displays that are creative and detailed enough to impress even the least green-fingered amongst us.

While you're at the Bellagio, I highly suggest you catch one of their iconic water fountain shows.

Image: Supplied/Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art.

AREA15 and Omega Mart.

AREA15 is a mind-bending space just off the Strip, filled with interactive games, VR, dining spots and all kinds of immersive experiences — including the weirdest supermarket you'll ever walk into: Omega Mart.

Created by renowned art collective Meow Wolf, Omega Mart is a surreal, interactive world where quirky installations surprise at every turn — like stepping through a freezer into an entirely new room.

Image: Meow Wolf Las Vegas/Supplied.

DISCOSHOW.

After dinner at DINER Ross (more on that later), we wandered just a few steps over to catch the DISCOSHOW. Think retro dance party meets a live performance, with a cast that moves through the space, dancing on stage and in the crowd. It's part theatre, part disco — and it's such a vibe.

Hoover Dam Postcard Tour with Lake Mead Mohave Adventures.

Driving through Boulder City is a charming detour from the usual Vegas buzz, and offers a peaceful, small-town vibe with a touch of history.

From there, we set off on a relaxed rafting trip down the Colorado River, taking in stunning views of the Hoover Dam and surrounding landscape — a perfect blend of local history, fresh air and calm waters.

Image: Supplied.

The Sphere Experience.

You can't miss the Sphere as you drive into Vegas — the futuristic landmark practically demands your attention and inside, it delivers a fully immersive cinematic experience.

I checked out the Postcard from Earth exhibit by award-winning director Darren Aronofsky, and it was incredible. Imagine a 160,000-square-foot, 16K screen wrapping around you, plus wind, scents and moving seats. It's definitely a peek into the future of entertainment.

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Grand Prix Plaza.

We popped in to see the newly opened F1 experience in Vegas, and as someone who's recently fallen deep into the F1 rabbit hole, I was very into it.

There's go-karting, interactive exhibits (you can even design your own race car) and a look at the sport's wild history and tech. Whether you're a casual viewer or fully obsessed, it's well worth stopping in.

Where to eat and drink.

La Fontaine, Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

This brunch spot struck a sweet spot between refined and relaxed, with warm lighting and fresh blooms on every table. Honestly, I could've sat there all day, happily people-watching.

And the food? Wow. Fluffy pancakes topped with lemon curd, fresh fruit and cream, followed by a basket of buttery pastries, crusty bread and creamy burrata. Absolute chef's kiss.

Image: Supplied.

LPM Restaurant and Bar, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

This restaurant and bar nails that laid-back French Riviera vibe. We popped in for breakfast, sipped Veuve (because why not) and tucked into everything from escargots to French toast and the most extra avocado toast I've ever laid eyes on.

We were also treated to a unique bread service with fresh tomatoes and lemons to slice and season right at the table — a beautiful nod to Mediterranean hospitality.

Image: Supplied.

Lunch at ¡VIVA! by Ray Garcia, Resorts World Las Vegas.

From the must-order starters (chips with guac, salsa and queso fundido, obviously) to the tacos and ceviche, everything here was truly delicious.

An easy, laid-back spot with a stunning fit-out, ¡VIVA! is ideal for sharing a few plates and sipping on a house-made margarita. I went for the Hibiscus Cooler, and it was light, floral and refreshing — exactly the kind of drink you want in hand on a hot Vegas day.

Image: Supplied.

Brunch at Pinky's by Vanderpump, Flamingo Las Vegas.

As a die-hard fan of Lisa Vanderpump, visiting one of her restaurants was a total highlight of the trip. The interiors had her signature flair, with muted tropical greens, brass accents, blush pink touches and of course, a grand portrait of Lisa and her pup at the entrance (because, obviously).

Every dish and cocktail was so beautifully presented it almost felt wrong to dig in. But her signature pull-apart herb and Gruyère bread? Absolutely worth the hype — warm, perfectly baked and ridiculously addictive.

Side note: They've got real flamingos at the Flamingo hotel if you walk right around the corner.

Image: Supplied.

Dinner at WAKUDA Las Vegas, The Venetian Resort.

WAKUDA offers a fresh spin on fine dining, with a beautifully curated menu that blends vibrant, high-quality ingredients with Japanese influences. Each dish struck that perfect balance — delicate in presentation, bold in flavour.

The wasabi salad was a standout— crisp, peppery and perfectly balanced with just the right kick.

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Dinner at Casa Playa, Wynn Las Vegas.

Casa Playa puts a fresh, luxurious and elevated twist on coastal Mexican dining. Think house-made tortillas, elevated seafood dishes and a standout agave cocktail list, all served beneath vibrant orange drapes that give the space a warm, playful energy.

Image: Instagram/@casaplaya.wynn/Supplied.

Dinner at DINER Ross, The LINQ Hotel.

DINER Ross is a bold, theatrical take on the classic American diner, mixing retro charm with cheeky Vegas theatrics. The menu delivers fun surprises — from upscale comfort food to nostalgic desserts. Don't miss the steak frites and the green goddess wedge salad — both are standouts.

Image: Supplied.

Cocktails at Gatsby's Cocktail Lounge, Resorts World Las Vegas.

This cocktail lounge is peak Vegas glam — Gatsby-inspired artisanal cocktails (arguably the classiest theme ever), plush velvet lounges, a stacked list of vintage champagnes and a DJ spinning throwback bangers.

My drink of choice? The Champagne Bubble Bath: A mix of muddled blood orange, Aperol, gin, champagne and mojito foam bubbles, all served in a mini bathtub with actual rubber ducks. Completely delicious and ridiculously fun.

Image: Supplied.

Drinks at Allē Lounge on 66, Resorts World Las Vegas.

We stopped in at Allē Lounge, perched 66 floors above Resorts World and honestly, the view alone is worth the visit. The entire Strip unfolds beneath you, while the moody lighting and polished interiors strike the perfect blend of classy and relaxed.

As for the cocktails? Total masterpieces. The Twilight Signature quickly became my favourite, but I've also heard their Espresso Martinis are some of the best in town.

Image: Allē Lounge/Supplied.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Keeley travelled as a guest of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. All views expressed are the writer's own.