New Years Weekend in Vegas

We celebrated Sophia’s 21st birthday in the most iconic way possible. Ringing in the New Year in Las Vegas! The trip wasn’t just about turning 21, it was also a reunion with a good friend and a spontaneous road trip from Salt Lake City to the city of lights.

December 30: Hitting the Road

We left Salt Lake City on December 30th and headed south to Vegas in our trusty 2018 Chevy Cruze (a serious gas-saver with nearly 400 miles per tank). If you’re roundtripping, we recommend a vehicle that doesn’t chug your gas, even if that means getting a rental with good mileage; it might save you money in the long run.

We were both between jobs at the time, so we were determined to make this celebration fun and budget-conscious. Lodging, gas, and food were our main expenses. Thanks to some planning, connections, and a Costco membership, we kept costs super low. (Trust us, the $1.50 hot dogs for the road were worth it.)

December 31: Exploring the Strip

The real adventure kicked off on New Year’s Eve. We did the classic tourist things starting with the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and walking the entire strip, from the Luxor all the way to The Strat Hotel, Casino & Tower. There was constant motion, lights flashing everywhere, music in the background, and crowds buzzing with energy. If the 1920s were truly “roaring,” this was the modern-day equivalent.

Despite the temptation, we didn’t blow money gambling or eating at high-end restaurants. Instead, we packed sandwiches, got $1.50 Costco hot dogs, and made the most of the city’s free attractions. Walking the Strip easily filled the day, especially with so much to take in. Plus, walking is free unless you want to stop to eat at somewhere like Hell’s Kitchen or buy expensive items from The Shops at Crystals. We spent the first day walking the strip and seeing the craziness of Vegas. From the show girls trying to get your money from a photo to holding tightly onto your wallet and valuables because we saw someone begging a kid for their wallet back after a pick-pocketing incident! (Seriously, keep your valuables close!).

Ringing in the New Year

As night fell, the Strip shut down the traffic, and thousands gathered in the streets waiting for midnight. We stood across from Caesars Palace for the firework show—and it did not disappoint. It was the most fireworks we’d ever seen in one place, and the energy in the crowd was unforgettable. It made Sophia’s birthday incredibly special.

After midnight, we kept things low-key. Sophia’s first legal drink? A Jell-O shot and a $5 White Claw. Her first casino game? $5 on blackjack—which turned into $20 (beginner’s luck!). We took the win and walked away happy.

January 1: Brunch, Hoover Dam & Meow Wolf

New Year’s Day started slow with a delicious brunch at Mimosas Gourmet, where we devoured giant pancakes and were in awe of the oversized Super Mimosas (no, we didn’t get one, but maybe next time!). We followed brunch with a short drive to the Hoover Dam, which was jaw-dropping in scale. Highly recommend if you’re ever in the area. It’s less than an hour from Vegas and totally worth it.

That afternoon, we treated ourselves to one big splurge: tickets to Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart. At $48 each, it was our biggest expense, but worth every penny. If you’ve never been, it’s an interactive art museum with vibrant, surreal displays and hidden rooms. We’ve visited Meow Wolf’s Colorado location too, and each one is a mind-bending experience.

Wrapping It Up

We hit the road back to Salt Lake City on the night of January 1st and got home the next day. Total spent? Around $200, including gas, food, birthday drinks, the museum, and one night of paid lodging. Not bad for an unforgettable 21st birthday weekend in Vegas.

Budget Tip Recap:

Use a fuel-efficient car or rent one with good mileage.
Pack snacks and meals (Costco is your best friend!).
Stay with friends or outside the city to save on lodging.
Focus on free or low-cost attractions.
Choose one big splurge to make the trip special.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just looking for a spontaneous adventure, Vegas doesn’t have to break the bank. You just need a little planning and maybe $5 on blackjack. 😉