Desert Sanctuary Near Glow of Las Vegas Strip

At nighttime in Las Vegas, the glimmer of flashing lights fans across the dusky desert floor, announcing the Strip's bustling casinos and opulent restaurants from afar. Nearby, the Green Valley Ranch supplies both exuberant nightlife and spa-like tranquility in the lesser-known vales of Henderson. Lush furnishings and soft light welcome guests into the hotel lobby's grand rotunda, bedecked with Second Empire–style carpets and a large gold-tinted globe.

In the hotel's Deluxe queen or king rooms, down comforters top plush mattresses in sunny, dandelion-yellow quarters carpeted with ornate floral patterns. A full tub and spa-like amenities grace each bathroom, where lodgers can don terry-cloth bathrobes to loll in their generously appointed rooms. Complimentary morning newspapers tag along to the Feast Buffet, a breakfast smorgasbord served until 11 a.m.

To relax after high-stakes bets and high-octane shopping trips, guests can sink into relaxing trances at the Spa at Green Valley Ranch Resort. Serenity seekers can apply the included $25 voucher toward any service, such as a hot-stone massage administered with polished basalt stones and gentle Swedish techniques ($160+). A sunken cerulean pool anchors the spa's soothing interior, lit on one side by floor-to-ceiling windows that throw sunlight onto tan, tiled floors. Visitors can also find relaxation in a sand-bottomed pool surrounded by palm trees and cushy, blue-and-yellow lounge furniture.

In the casino, slot and video-poker machines vie with table games for the attentions of casual gamers, and seasoned cardsharps try their luck in daily poker tournaments. Upon signing up for a Boarding Pass rewards card, visitors can win up to $500 in gaming credits depending on a ubiquitous Sin City commodity—chance. At the end of the day, a bottle of Skyy Vodka awaits at the Drop Bar, where fantastical chandeliers mingle with deep-purple décor and cool-hued lighting. Live DJs and hookah stations further distinguish the establishment from the typical gin joint.

Henderson, Nevada: Nightlife and Dining a Stone's Throw from Vegas

With several days' worth of activities available at Green Valley Ranch, visitors may encounter no need to leave its grounds. The chef at the on-site Sushi + Sake gives the ancient art of sushi rolling its due with eye-popping presentations and all-you-can-eat servings. Wait staff at the sleek eatery also pours infused sakes amid teardrop-shaped white lamps and Japanese-inspired aesthetic elements. Dulcet harmonies and thumping bass lines waft from Ovation, a live-music venue hosting weekly shows and a Nashville Unplugged series featuring performances by country-music songwriters and special guests.

For a taste of Sin City, guests can take the hotel shuttle to the Strip, Vegas's pleasure promenade sparkling with glitzy casinos, the Fountains of Bellagio, and 14-karat people watching. After trying a hand at poker or blackjack, visitors can slip over to the Fremont East District, a bustling downtown neighborhood peppered with blues and jazz bars. The area abounds with nightlife options, from nostalgic piano bars and comedy clubs to venues offering hand-crafted cocktails and performances by bands and DJs.

Though Green Valley Ranch offers discounted rates to local residents with a valid Nevada driver's license, this Groupon offers the best deal available.