Challenge Accepted

Long before the Raiders laid down roots in Las Vegas, the NFL was a huge part of the city, whether it was enjoying a game with friends at any of our bars and restaurants or placing bets at any of our welcoming sports books. But the NFL experience in here has changed dramatically in just a few short years. Last year, our city hosted its fi rst NFL Draft and, next year, we will host our fi rst Super Bowl! It’s all a bit surreal, to be honest, but, as I expected, Las Vegas has proven itself more than up to the challenge. After all, this city all but perfected the entertainment experience. Entertainment’s biggest stage? Bring it on!

But fi rst up is this year’s NFL Draft, and even though it will be held in Kansas City, Mo., we know plenty of you visiting this week will be wanting to check out the televised proceedings. We’ve rounded up a few of the best options for larger groups (“Make Your Selection,” p. 14). Plan accordingly, as seats are likely to be snapped up quick all over the Strip.

And there’s plenty more to keep you busy while you’re enjoying your stay. One of the best adults-only revues in town, ROUGE, is ready to entice and enthrall at The STRAT (“Beyond Burlesque,” p. 32), while David Blaine returns to Resorts World Las Vegas with his hit residency, In Spades (“Body of Work,” p. 36 ). Punk fans no doubt already have their tickets to see Iggy Pop bring his enormously influential catalog to the Pearl at Palms (“Lust For Life,” p. 38).

Anyone here a fan of the Cronut? The man who invented that pastry innovation, Dominique Ansel, has opened a shop at Caesars Palace, and you’ll fi nd plenty of other goodies there as well (“Baking Up Success,” p. 17 ).

There’s no challenge Las Vegas cannot meet. Head out there and see for yourself.

What to do in Las Vegas this week

Katie Dixon, Publisher 29

Sunday 23

Dinner at Mabel’s BBQ

This elevated barbecue dining concept at the Palms combines traditional techniques with innovative flavors, as well as sublime cocktails. Can’t decide between brisket, pulled pork or ribs? Get them all!

Palms, mabelsbbqvegas.com

Monday 24

Adventuredome

This 5-acre indoor amusement park has been a Las Vegas mainstay for as long as I can remember. It’s everything you want—games, thrill rides, funnel cakes, and even a couple of clowns.

Circus Circus, circuscircus.com

Tuesday 25

Faded Karaoke at The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails

Yes, it’s a full-service barbershop—with Prohibitionstyle speakeasy and a stage for where you can enjoy karaoke every Tuesday.

The Cosmopolitan, thebarbershoplv.com

April 23-29

Wednesday 26

Caviar Bar

The menu features a variety of caviar options as well as a full menu of seafood, meat and pasta entrées. I recommend starting with the wagyu toast appetizer— you won’t regret it.

Resorts World Las Vegas, rwlasvegas.com

Thursday 27

Beer Park

Soak up the beautiful spring weather while overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. This rooftop venue is the perfect spot to hang out and watch a game with a burger and a cold beer (or a flight if you can’t decide).

Paris Las Vegas, beerpark.com

For Insider Tips go to lasvegasmagazine.com 26 25

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Friday 28

Chelsea Handler

If you’re looking for a night full of laughs, look no further. The sharp-tongued TV host, best-selling author and comedian is bringing her stand-up to Vegas, and fans can expect raunchy jokes, hilarious celebrity commentary and more. The Mirage, ticketmaster.com

Saturday 29

Elle King

The multiplatinum singer/ songwriter’s sound is a mix of country and rock. The “Ex’s and Oh’s” artist is bound to bring the energy for this one-nightonly performance.

Westgate Las Vegas, westgateresorts.com