5 Relaxing Ways to Unwind in Las Vegas

In a city fueled by excitement, taking some time to recharge is vital to a successful Vegas vacation. In addition to its energetic nightlife and world-class entertainment offerings, Las Vegas hosts a variety of peaceful possibilities to renew your mind, body and soul. From enchanting dolphin encounters to smooth, scenic gondola rides, there are many ways to revitalize in this desert oasis. Here are five of our favorite ways to unwind in Vegas.

1. Take a Spa Break
Most of the hotels and resorts in Las Vegas offer affordable and high-quality spa services. While the resorts mentioned below are three of our favorites, don't be afraid to explore all the options to find your perfect place.

The Red Rock Spa by Well & Being
The spa at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa cover quite the checklist. Providing the standard massage, facial, hair and nail services expected of most spas, the Red Rock Spa goes above and beyond with amenities like personal training and fitness consultation, in-house registered nutritionists who work with guests to formulate highly customized eating plans, and multiple spa-exclusive specialty treatments. Red Rock Spa also offers a "just for men" spa experience with on-site fitness and nutrition experts who work to create individualized health plans, cosmetologists with specialized facial and skin regimens for men, and even a "bod pod" that measures body composition for precise, personalized health and fitness planning reports.

The Four Seasons Spa
With its coveted five star Forbes rating, the Four Seasons Spa offers respite from the exciting Strip. The spa includes 12 treatment rooms, couples' suites and an expanded co-ed Zen lounge. For a truly delightful experience, you can enjoy the spa services and atmosphere with your best friend or significant other. Be sure to request one of the spa's invigorating facials or body treatments -- they're particularly popular with the locals.

The Spa at Encore
Located at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, The Spa at Encore is beyond posh. Awarded five stars by Forbes Travel Guide, this stunning space features designer treatment rooms, garden villas, couples' rooms and an experience that's positively perfect.

Drift Spa at Palms Place Hotel
With more than 20 treatment rooms, the Drift Spa has room for everyone. Relax as you nurture your body and mind with its extensive list of services, including an aromatherapy bath for two. You should also try one of their signature massages, and lounge in one of their gorgeous garden lounges.

2. Gondola Rides at The Venetian
Travel back in time at The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino for a float along the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola. The gondolier will serenade you as you drift underneath bridges, alongside cafes, below balconies and through the lively Venetian streetscape. The gondolas have indoor and outdoor routes, so you can recline in the sun or take in a refreshing Venetian breeze.

3. Mandarin Oriental Tea House
Here you'll indulge your senses and explore a vast collection of some of the finest loose-leaf teas available. Overlooking the Las Vegas skyline, the Mandarin Oriental Tea House is designed as a retreat, but also offers an exquisite selection of pastries, coffee, juice, macarons and cocktails.

4. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
This 14,000 square-foot playground showcases beautiful trees, flowers and plants year-round. A horticultural team of 120 people work tirelessly to maintain the botanical gardens, and their effort is blossoming. Spending time in nature is good for the soul and helps reduce stress, too. So be sure to a stroll through the gardens.

5. Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is a secluded sanctuary located at The Mirage Hotel & Casino. In the garden, you'll meet the resident dolphins and even have the opportunity to swim with these magical creatures. You can also enjoy a yoga session next to the dolphin habitat or come face to face with the rarest big cats in Vegas.

Ready for your Las Vegas retreat? Go to VisitLasVegas.com to learn more about R&R at the entertainment capital of the world.