Situated a convenient half-block off the world famous Strip, the Marriott's Grand Chateau is themed, like most everything in Vegas. As heavily hinted by the name, this resort channels France – the sunny south to be exact – and pulls it off with panache. Get your workout in early at the (surprisingly un-French) massive fitness center before parking yourself in a lounger around the cabana-lined rooftop pool, sipping the occasional cocktail from the SkyBar 38. Or if it’s getting close to lunchtime and you’re looking for eats, sample the signature classic burger or grilled chicken tacos from the Level 5 Pool Bar and Grill (thumbs up, right?). Later on in the day, map out your casino-filled evening plan over tapas and (yet more) cocktails in the Lobby Bar, then head out for a night on the town. Or save that plan for another night, and gather your crew in the hot tub instead.

Comfortable one- and two-bedroom villas are both available in larger footprints perfect for groups that plan to spend more time inside their residence, and smaller footprints for those thinking they’ll be mostly out exploring. There’s even a three-bedroom option, perfect if you’ve got a good-sized crew. Each residence has a glitzy view of the Strip, which gets even glitzier at night when the neon’s at full-strength. Well appointed kitchens are equipped with cookware and appliances, including coffee makers for DIY baristas. Or you can run down to The Marketplace and grab a Starbucks and breakfast to go. The in-suite washer/dryer means you can pack light. And you’ll appreciate the extra space in your bags once you get a dose of the impressive shopping scene. When you’re ready to call it a night (even if it’s technically already morning), head for the master suite for a soak in the oversized tub before collapsing in the king bed and drifting off to dreamland.

Your prime, right-off-the-Strip location puts you steps from the Harley Davidson Cafe, and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro inside the Planet Hollywood Hotel. The Hard Rock Casino is a 20-minute walk, which gives you time to discuss possibilities for the next day’s adventures. The greater Vegas area offers everything from waterskiing to snow-skiing. Go see Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon. Or stick closer to home and check out the classic Fremont Street Experience. Golfer? Courses abound. Try Boulder Creek, Silverstone, Revere or Tournament Player’s Club, the premier PGA Tour facility in Las Vegas, complete with a backdrop of the stunning Red Canyon and Las Vegas skyline. Hit the spa or see a Cirque du Soleil show – just don’t expect to get everything crossed off your must-do list. (Don’t worry – it gives you an excuse to come back.)