The 35-acre Area15 may not be the first stop for most travelers when they visit Las Vegas; still, the growing arts and entertainment district has attracted more than 15 million visitors since it opened six years ago.
New attractions have been added to broaden its appeal and encourage repeat visits. And even more are coming soon, including the Eye Dropper thrill ride next month and the Museum of Ice Cream this summer.
• Related: Some tips for visiting Area15
There are numerous approaches on how to best enjoy the district, depending on the interests and ages of the guests, the size of the group, the available time and the budget. Like devising ways to get the most out of a day at a theme park, a little planning goes a long way at Area15.
Knowing that serendipitous discoveries are inevitable with an open mind and not everyone fits into neat demographic groups. Here are four sample itineraries.
For younger couples getting to know each other
• John Wick Experience. Live interactions and game play create missions that tests guests' creativity and courage. There are assassins, crime bosses and other elements from the popular movie franchise.
"They have the Continental, which is their speakeasy area, but you navigate through the various rooms, exploring that storyline. ... You interact with the characters that are there, very different in each room. In some cases, you can leave with some merchandise or unique coins," said Jessica Bowlby, Area15's director of brand marketing.
• Oddyssey Manor and Oddyssey Noir. A theatrical cocktail experience blends immersive performance, craft mixology and a nightlife vibe to create an unusual date night. Felix and Penelope live in Oddyssey Manor, and guests are invited to celebrate Felix's birthday. Other residents offer special cocktails, food and secrets in the storytelling. Each encounter leads to a different corner of the manor and reveals more layers of the narrative.
"They really encourage you to participate. They don't want you standing on the wall watching. They want you coming up to the dance floor to dance, and it's really unique, especially for couples," Bowlby said.
• Liftoff Bar & Ride. Another option to enjoy craft cocktails 130 feet in the air and 360-degree views of the city.
• Looper Bar & Ride. Bring some nostalgic whimsy to the date and go round and round on a carousel.
* Haley's Comet. A zipline provides a bird's eye view of the venue.
For older couples on a date night
• Interstellar Arc is an hourlong VR experience, a creation of Felix & Paul Studios that combines cinematic storytelling and technology to take guests to another planet. It's a thoughtful, exhilarating experience.
The lobby of Interstellar Arc begins the story of the VR-fueled space journey. Photo Credit: Felix & Paul Studios
• Wink World. Mesmerizing art and psychedelic wonders are displayed, including infinity mirror rooms.
• Art Quest. More than 40 pieces of large-scale art, including sculptures and murals, are highlighted in a walking tour of the campus. A mobile app features audio with insider facts, insights and reflections from the artists.
• Two memorable places to take a break and grab a bite: The Beast gastropub, with a steampunk, industrial aesthetic, and Kaia, an Asian eatery with fresh hand rolls, sushi bowl, dumplings and noodles.
For families with children
• Omega Mart. A mysterious world beyond "America's Most Exceptional Grocery Store" awaits in Meow Wolf's stunning installation. Guests are immersed in an interactive, inspirational journey that all ages can enjoy.
“Projected Desert" is one of many art installations hidden behind Omega Mart’s grocery store. Photo Credit: Kate Russell
• The Great Big Game Show. The whole family can participate in TV show-like settings that test trivia knowledge and other skills.
• Asylum Arcade & Bar. Two levels provide games and drinks for everyone. The top is for those 21 and up, while the bottom is for all ages.
• Check Area15's calendar for monthly family raves and other all-ages special events.
For small groups of friends or co-workers
• Universal Horror Unleashed. Universal Destinations & Experiences' first year-round horror experience evokes frights in a variety of creative ways. Legendary cinematic monsters, angry scarecrows and loud chainsaws all quicken the pulse. Be in front of small groups to get the most thrills and jump scares.
"It is also open to really making that experience how you want," Bowlby said. "That could be just having dinner and drinks and watching others get scared. And being thankful that's not you!"
• The Escape Game. Fun challenges and clues are built into the environment. Some puzzles might be tricky for younger players, and some themes--like escaping prison--can be intense, but nothing that can't be shared with co-workers or family members.
• Five Iron Golf. Simulators that blend golf and entertainment are a great way for guests to compete with friends or network with colleagues.
• Dueling Axes. This 11-lane ax-throwing venue also brings out guests' competitive natures.