If you’re visiting Death Valley in September, don’t start packing your fall clothes just yet.

We visited Death Valley National Park in late September, and temperatures reached around 106°F during our trip. Even first thing in the morning, it was warm. But one thing surprised me: not every part of Death Valley felt the same.

Down at Badwater Basin, lightweight summer clothing was exactly what I wanted. At Dante’s View, thousands of feet above the valley floor, I wished I had dressed completely differently.

After spending a couple of days exploring Death Valley in the extreme late-September heat, here’s what I actually wore, what worked, what I would change, and what I recommend packing.

How Hot Is Death Valley in September?

September may technically be the beginning of fall, but Death Valley doesn't necessarily get the memo.

During our late-September visit, temperatures reached around 106°F. We quickly learned that the best way to explore was to get outside very early in the morning, spend the hottest part of the day back at our hotel or pool, and venture out again later in the day.

For our morning at Badwater Basin, we arrived around sunrise. It was already roughly 80°F, and once the sun came up, you could immediately feel the difference.

This is also why I wouldn't plan a September Death Valley trip around traditional hiking. The National Park Service warns that even during spring and fall, heat at lower elevations can become unbearable and recommends saving low-elevation hikes for cooler weather.

Our September itinerary was much more about short walks, scenic viewpoints, driving between locations, and strategically planning when we were outside.

What I Wore to Badwater Basin

For Badwater Basin, I wore a black Halara active dress with white sneakers and an Alo trucker hat.

This ended up being one of my favorite outfits of the trip.

The dress was lightweight and easy to move around in, which was important because we didn't just step out of the car for a photo. We walked quite a way out onto the salt flats to see the more defined salt formations.

I specifically chose white sneakers for Badwater Basin after reading that the salt flats can leave a white, salty residue on your shoes. I'm glad I did. Salt can get caked onto the soles and sides of your shoes as you walk across the flats, and any leftover residue is much less noticeable on white sneakers than it would be on darker shoes.

I also recommend wearing comfortable shoes with good traction. The surface changes as you walk farther out toward the salt polygons, so this isn't somewhere I would personally wear flimsy sandals.

Badwater Basin is completely exposed, so there's essentially nowhere to escape the sun once you're walking across the salt flats. We went around sunrise, and I would absolutely do that again if visiting during a hot September.

What Worked at Badwater Basin

My active dress gave me the comfort of athletic clothing without feeling like I was dressed for a serious hike. The white sneakers were comfortable for walking across the salt flats and a practical choice for hiding salt residue, while my hat helped keep the sun off my face.

If you're visiting during September, I would prioritize breathable clothing, comfortable shoes with good traction, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.

What I Wore to Devil's Golf Course

I kept on my Halara dress, Alo hat and sneakers when we visited Devil's Golf Course.

This worked well because Devil's Golf Course didn't require a long hike for us. We could drive to the viewing area and explore for a short period before getting back into the air-conditioned car.

The landscape here is covered with rough, jagged salt formations, so sturdy shoes are much more practical than sandals if you plan on stepping away from the parking area.

This is one of the biggest things I learned about dressing for Death Valley: you don't necessarily need serious hiking clothes for every stop, but you do need clothing that allows you to comfortably walk on uneven terrain.

An active dress, shorts or lightweight athleisure all work well for this kind of sightseeing.

SHOP MY DEATH VALLEY OUTFIT

Halara Dress • Alo Trucker Hat • Sneakers (similar)

What I Wore to Zabriskie Point

For Zabriskie Point, I wore Alo shorts, a black Uniqlo camisole and a lightweight Quince button-down shirt.

This was probably my favorite combination from a practical standpoint.

The shorts and camisole kept me cool, while the lightweight button-down gave me an extra layer when I wanted it. I could leave it open, roll up the sleeves or take it off completely depending on the temperature.

It also gave me a little extra sun coverage without having to wear something heavy.

For a September Death Valley trip, I would definitely pack at least one lightweight long-sleeve shirt like this. It's much more versatile than bringing a jacket for the valley floor.

SHOP MY ZABRISKIE POINT OUTFIT

Quince Linen Shirt • Uniqlo Cami • Trouser Shorts (similar)

The Outfit I Got Wrong: Dante's View

Dante's View is where I made my biggest clothing mistake.

I wasn't expecting to do much walking, so I arrived dressed more casually in jeans and a basic shirt. Once we got there, however, we decided to explore farther along the ridge.

I immediately wished I had worn athleisure.

Dante's View sits high above the valley floor, so it can feel completely different from places like Badwater Basin. It was cooler and windier, and the terrain beyond the main viewpoint made me wish I had dressed for actual activity rather than a quick scenic stop.

If I did it again, I would wear leggings or athletic shorts, a breathable top, good walking shoes and a lightweight layer.

This is probably my biggest packing tip from our entire trip:

Don't dress for Dante's View based on the temperature at Furnace Creek or Badwater Basin.

Even if you only intend to stop at the main viewpoint, having athletic clothing and an extra layer gives you the flexibility to explore farther if you decide to.

WHAT I'D WEAR TO DANTE'S VIEW

Athleta Leggings • Alo Crop Top • Light Jacket

What I Wore at the Pool

Because temperatures were over 100°F during our visit, spending part of the afternoon at the pool wasn't just relaxing. It fit perfectly into the way we structured our days.

I packed a basic black bikini, which was really all I needed.

We stayed at The Inn at Death Valley, so after exploring early in the morning, we could return to the hotel, cool off and spend some time at the pool while the temperatures outside climbed.

If you're staying somewhere with a pool, definitely bring a swimsuit even for a late-September trip. This isn't a destination where I would assume pool season is over just because summer technically ended.

SHOP MY POOL ESSENTIALS

Black Bikini • Sunglasses • Pool Sandals

Shoes I Would Pack for Death Valley

If you're mostly visiting the major viewpoints like we did, I don't think you automatically need heavy hiking boots.

I wore sneakers and they worked well for our itinerary.

The bigger priority is having shoes that are comfortable on uneven surfaces and that you can comfortably walk in for an extended period.

For our style of trip, I would pack:

• Comfortable sneakers or trail shoes

• Pool sandals or flip-flops

• Hiking shoes only if your itinerary includes more substantial trails

I wouldn't make fashion sandals my primary sightseeing shoes. Badwater Basin, Devil's Golf Course and the trails around viewpoints can all involve surfaces where sneakers make much more sense.

My Death Valley September Packing List

After actually experiencing Death Valley in late September, this is what I would put in my suitcase.

Clothing

• Active dress

• Athletic shorts

• Lightweight tank tops or camisoles

• Breathable T-shirts

• Lightweight long-sleeve button-down shirt

• Leggings or other athleisure for higher elevations

• Lightweight jacket or layer for Dante's View

• Swimsuit

• Comfortable sleepwear

• Underwear and socks

Shoes

• Comfortable walking sneakers or trail shoes

• Sandals or flip-flops for the hotel and pool

• Hiking shoes if you're planning actual hikes

Sun and Heat Essentials

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Refillable water bottle

• Electrolytes

• Lip balm

• Plenty of water in the car

The National Park Service recommends carrying plenty of water in Death Valley and specifically advises visitors to pack sun protection and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for extreme heat.

Don't underestimate how much water you'll need just because you're sightseeing rather than hiking. The combination of heat, intense sun and extremely dry air can sneak up on you.

Final Thoughts: Dressing for Death Valley in September

My biggest takeaway from visiting Death Valley in September is to pack for extreme heat but dress for the specific location you're visiting.

At lower elevations, lightweight dresses, athletic shorts, camisoles and breathable layers worked best for me. But higher-elevation areas like Dante's View were a different story, where athleisure, good walking shoes and an extra layer would have been much more useful.

Timing matters just as much as clothing, too. We explored places like Badwater Basin early in the morning and limited our outdoor activities once temperatures climbed. That made our trip much more enjoyable than trying to push through the hottest part of the day.

If you're headed to Death Valley in September, don't pack like you're taking a fall vacation. Pack like it's still summer, bring a layer for the higher elevations, and be prepared to adjust your plans around the heat.

When I told people I was finally going to Death Valley National Park, I knew it was going to be hot. What I wasn't expecting was to arrive in late September and see 108°F on the temperature gauge.

The forecast wasn't offering much relief either. Temperatures were expected to reach around 106°F the following day, so it quickly became clear that this wasn't going to be a typical sightseeing trip. If we wanted to explore Death Valley safely and actually enjoy ourselves, we'd have to plan our days around the heat.

Death Valley had been on my travel wish list for a long time, and my boyfriend, Tyrone, surprised me by booking a two-night stay inside the park. I wasn't about to let triple-digit temperatures ruin a trip I had been looking forward to for years.

Instead of trying to pack as much as possible into every hour, our itinerary became a combination of very early mornings, scenic drives, short stops, lots of water, and afternoons relaxing at the pool. And surprisingly, it worked really well.

Visiting Death Valley in September certainly isn't for everyone, but the heat didn't stop us from having an incredible trip. Here's what late September was really like, what we were able to see in two days, and what I learned along the way.

Is September a Good Time to Visit Death Valley?

Let's get this out of the way first: September can still be extremely hot in Death Valley.

We visited in late September and experienced temperatures around 106°F to 108°F. I knew Death Valley would be hot, but I thought visiting toward the end of September might mean temperatures had started cooling down a little more than this.

According to the National Park Service, fall really starts arriving in Death Valley toward the end of October, when temperatures become more comfortable for exploring. So if you're planning a September trip expecting traditional fall weather, you'll want to adjust those expectations.

That said, there were some advantages to visiting when we did. We planned our outdoor activities for early morning, spent the hottest hours relaxing, and encountered surprisingly few people in some areas.

The biggest thing I learned was not to fight the heat. Plan around it.

Our First Morning at Badwater Basin

If there was one place I absolutely had to see in Death Valley, it was Badwater Basin. At 282 feet below sea level, it's the lowest point in North America, and I had been looking forward to walking out onto those massive salt flats more than anything else on the trip.

Because of the heat, we woke up early and left our hotel around 6:35 AM. We reached Badwater around 6:50 AM, when it was already about 80°F, and started walking beyond the boardwalk onto the salt flats.

The sun hadn't risen above the mountains yet, so we were still in the shade. There was also a breeze, which made the temperature surprisingly comfortable.

As we continued walking, the salt formations started becoming much more interesting. There were a few people around when we started, but most of them stopped much earlier than we did.

We kept going until eventually Tyrone and I were standing in this enormous white landscape almost completely by ourselves. It was quiet except for the wind and the crunch of salt underneath our shoes.

That ended up being one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.

The National Park Service notes that you can begin seeing the famous salt polygons after walking roughly a quarter mile from the parking area. From our experience, continuing farther was definitely worth it because the formations became more defined and there were far fewer people around.

Just remember that there is no shade once you're out there. Visiting early made a huge difference for us, especially with temperatures expected to climb above 100°F later that day.

A Quick Stop at Devil's Golf Course

From Badwater Basin, we drove to Devil's Golf Course, where jagged salt formations stretch across the valley floor.

The road leading there was rough and bumpy, and we were happy to be driving a truck. Once we arrived, we walked around, took some photos and admired the strange landscape before moving on.

By then, temperatures were already climbing into the mid-80s. Without any shade, we could definitely feel the day getting hotter.

The formations here are also extremely sharp, so watch your step. This is not somewhere I'd want to trip and fall!

Driving Artist's Drive and Artist's Palette

Next, we headed to Artist's Drive, a nine-mile one-way scenic road that winds through colorful hills and canyons.

This turned out to be a great activity as the temperature started rising because we could enjoy most of the scenery from the air-conditioned truck. As we drove farther into the canyon, shades of green, red, pink and white began appearing in the mountains.

We stopped briefly at Artist's Palette Overlook, but I enjoyed the drive itself just as much. There are sections where the rock walls come surprisingly close to the road, and the scenery constantly changes as you make your way through the canyon.

By the time we finished Artist's Drive, we were ready for a break from the heat.

What Do You Do in Death Valley When It's Over 100°F?

You go to the pool!

Around 11:30 AM, it was already about 90°F and getting hotter quickly. Instead of forcing ourselves to keep sightseeing just because we were in a national park, we returned to The Inn at Death Valley, where we were staying for two nights.

The hotel is located inside the park near Furnace Creek, which made our September strategy incredibly convenient. We could explore in the morning and retreat to the resort during the hottest part of the day.

We spent the afternoon swimming and relaxing by the pool, which felt especially luxurious considering we were surrounded by one of the hottest places on Earth.

Normally when I travel, I feel like I should constantly be doing something. Death Valley forced me to slow down, and I actually appreciated it.

Our Sunset Mistake at Dante's View

After relaxing at the pool, we had dinner at the restaurant inside our hotel and decided to drive up to Dante's View for sunset.

There was just one problem. I hadn't realized Dante's View was about a 30-minute drive from our hotel.

By the time we arrived, we had missed the actual sunset. We caught the last colors lingering over the mountains, which were still beautiful, but it wasn't quite what I had planned.

In hindsight, Zabriskie Point would have been the better sunset choice that evening. It was only about a 10-minute drive from our hotel, so we could have finished dinner and gotten there much more easily before sunset.

It was one of those little travel-planning lessons you only really understand after you've done it. Fortunately, we weren't finished with either viewpoint yet.

Waking Up for Sunrise at Zabriskie Point

The next morning started very early again.

At 5:54 AM, I made the last-minute decision that we should go see the sunrise at Zabriskie Point.

We originally considered checking out the stargazing terrace at our hotel, but the moon was bright and the sky was already beginning to lighten. Sunrise suddenly seemed like the better idea, so we quickly changed plans and headed out.

There were already several cars in the parking lot when we arrived, with people gathering along the overlook. The walk up is short but steeper than it initially looks. I remember thinking it didn't look that bad and then finding myself completely out of breath on the way up.

Once we reached the top, it was worth the early wake-up call. The moon was disappearing behind the mountains on one side while pink clouds began glowing over the badlands on the other.

We eventually noticed people venturing down below the main overlook and decided to follow. I was a little nervous climbing down at first, but once we got there, the wind disappeared and everything became incredibly calm.

Eventually, most of the other visitors left and we were almost completely alone again. That peacefulness was something I kept experiencing throughout Death Valley and one of the things I loved most about the park.

Our hotel was only about a 5 to 10-minute drive away, which made Zabriskie Point incredibly easy to visit for sunrise. If you're staying around Furnace Creek, I would absolutely make the effort to get up early for this one.

Giving Dante's View Another Chance

After Zabriskie Point, we returned to the hotel, packed up and checked out. We were heading back toward Las Vegas that afternoon, but I still wanted to give Dante's View another chance.

Since we had arrived after sunset the night before, we hadn't been able to fully appreciate the scenery. This time, we went back in broad daylight.

And I'm so glad we did.

As we drove higher into the mountains, the temperature changed dramatically. It was around 90°F down in the valley, but by the time we reached Dante's View, I was actually a little chilly in my short sleeves.

The overlook itself was incredible. From up there, we could see across Death Valley and look down toward the salt flats where we had walked the previous morning.

I thought we'd get out, admire the view, take a few pictures and leave.

That is not what happened.

Our Quick Stop Turned Into an Adventure

We noticed people hiking beyond the main Dante's View overlook, so naturally, we decided to see where they were going.

One viewpoint led to another. Then another.

Before I knew it, we were scrambling around rocks, dealing with huge gusts of wind and walking much farther than I had intended. There were areas without railings where I definitely started questioning my decision to keep going.

At one point, I was legitimately scared. Every time the wind picked up near the rocks, my brain started imagining every possible way this could go wrong.

But we kept going.

Eventually, we turned around and started climbing hill after hill back toward the parking lot. Our "quick final viewpoint" had somehow turned into an entire adventure.

I was exhausted, relieved and so glad we did it.

Dante's View ended up being the perfect final memory from Death Valley, and returning during daylight made me even happier that we hadn't simply checked it off our list the night before.

What Surprised Me Most About Death Valley

Before this trip, I pictured Death Valley as one giant, brutally hot desert. And yes, it is definitely hot.

What I didn't expect was how varied the landscape would be.

Within two days, we walked across white salt flats 282 feet below sea level, drove through colorful mountains, watched sunrise over rippled badlands, relaxed beneath palm trees and stood high above the valley feeling chilly in the wind.

Death Valley is a place of extremes, and that's what made it so fascinating to me. The scenery and even the temperature can feel completely different depending on where you are in the park.

What to Wear in Death Valley in September

With temperatures reaching over 100°F during our September visit, I mostly packed lightweight, breathable clothes that would keep me comfortable in the heat. For our early morning outings, I wore pieces that were easy to move around in but still comfortable as the temperature quickly warmed up.

One of my favorite outfits was my Quince linen shirt layered over a basic Uniqlo camisole with Alo shorts. The linen shirt gave me a lightweight extra layer without feeling too heavy in the desert heat. I also wore my Halara dress with sneakers, which worked really well for exploring places like Badwater Basin and Devil's Golf Course.

The one place I would have dressed differently was Dante's View. I wasn't expecting to do any hiking that day, so I wore jeans and a basic shirt. Once we started following the trails beyond the main overlook and scrambling around the rocks, I definitely wished I had worn athleisure instead.

Dante's View was also noticeably cooler and much windier than the valley floor because of the higher elevation. If I went back, I'd wear comfortable athletic clothes and sneakers and bring a lightweight layer, even if it was over 100°F down in the valley.

For a September trip, I'd prioritize breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light layer for higher elevations. Death Valley's temperature changes surprised me almost as much as the scenery did.

Tips From Our September Death Valley Trip

Start early. We arrived at Badwater Basin before 7 AM and visited Zabriskie Point around sunrise. Those early mornings gave us much more comfortable temperatures.

Plan around the hottest part of the day. We used late morning and afternoon to relax at our hotel rather than forcing more sightseeing into the schedule.

Take advantage of scenic drives. Artist's Drive was perfect as temperatures climbed because we could experience the landscape without spending long periods outside.

Bring plenty of water. Death Valley is extremely dry, and even short walks made us thirsty.

Don't assume September means fall weather. We visited toward the end of the month and still experienced temperatures above 100°F.

Check drive times before chasing sunset. This is one I learned personally! From the Furnace Creek area, Zabriskie Point was much easier for us to reach quickly than Dante's View.

Check current park conditions before heading out. Extreme weather and road conditions can affect access, so it's always a good idea to check National Park Service alerts before your visit.

Give yourself permission to do less. You don't need to spend the entire day hiking to experience Death Valley. Some of my favorite memories came from slowing down and enjoying where we were.

Would I Visit Death Valley in September Again?

Yes, but I would approach it the same way we did.

I wouldn't choose September if my main goal was to spend all day hiking at lower elevations. For that kind of trip, I'd much rather return during the cooler months.

But the heat didn't ruin our trip. In a strange way, it became part of the experience.

It forced us to wake up early enough to see Death Valley in the beautiful morning light. It gave us an excuse to spend an afternoon doing absolutely nothing by the pool. And it pushed us toward higher elevations, where we discovered a completely different side of the park.

By the time we left, I couldn't believe how much we had experienced in just two nights.

Badwater Basin was the place I had been dreaming about seeing. Zabriskie Point gave us one of the most peaceful mornings of the trip. And Dante's View, which was supposed to be one quick stop on our way out, somehow turned into our final unexpected adventure.

Death Valley had been on my list for years.

Now that I've finally been, I already want to go back.

Death Valley in September FAQs

• How hot is Death Valley in September?

  Very hot. During our late-September visit, temperatures reached around 106°F to 108°F. Cooler fall weather generally arrives later in the season.

• Is September a good time to visit Death Valley?

  It can be if you're comfortable planning around extreme heat. We explored early in the morning, relaxed during the hottest hours and visited higher elevations later.

• Can you visit Badwater Basin in September?

  Yes, but go early and follow current heat guidance. We arrived around 6:50 AM before the sun had risen above the mountains.

• How many days do you need in Death Valley?

  I recommend two full days in Death Valley, especially if it's your first visit. We were able to see Badwater Basin, Devil's Golf Course, Artist's Drive, Zabriskie Point and Dante's View, but we didn't have enough time to visit the sand dunes. Two full days would give you more time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

• Where should you watch sunrise in Death Valley?

  We loved sunrise at Zabriskie Point. It was also conveniently located about 5 to 10 minutes from our hotel near Furnace Creek.

• Where should you watch sunset in Death Valley?

  Both Zabriskie Point and Dante's View are popular options, but check drive times carefully. From our hotel near Furnace Creek, Zabriskie Point would have been much easier for a last-minute sunset.

There are some hotels you book because they have the best rooms, the perfect location, or a pool you cannot wait to spend the afternoon beside.

I went back to Luxor Las Vegas for a completely different reason.

The Luxor holds a special place in my heart because my boyfriend, Tyrone, and I stayed here when we first met in Las Vegas. When I returned to Vegas, we thought it would be fun to spend two nights here and relive a little bit of that experience.

And of course, if we were going back to Luxor, I wanted to stay inside the pyramid.

There are newer and more modern rooms available in the Tower, but where is the fun in staying at Luxor if you are not actually staying inside that giant black pyramid?

At least, that was my thinking.

After spending another weekend here, though, I walked away with a very different impression of the hotel.

I’m glad we came back. I’m glad we stayed in the pyramid again. But I also realized that this will probably be our last stay at Luxor.

So, is Luxor Las Vegas worth staying at? Here’s what our experience was really like.

Staying Inside the Luxor Pyramid

We booked a standard Pyramid Two Queen room for our two-night stay.

The pyramid is still undeniably cool. The angled walls remind you immediately that you are staying somewhere unusual, and even getting to your room is an experience.

Instead of a traditional elevator traveling straight up, Luxor has what it calls an inclinator. It travels diagonally along the pyramid at a 39-degree angle. You can actually feel yourself moving slightly sideways as you go up.

It's one of those wonderfully weird Vegas experiences that you probably won't find anywhere else.

Once we got inside our room, though, some of that excitement started to wear off.

The room itself was fine. Not terrible, but definitely dated.

We had two queen beds, a desk, chairs, plenty of storage and a surprisingly nice view overlooking the pool. The room was also very quiet. We didn't hear noise from the hallway or outside, and we both slept well. The beds weren't amazing, but they were comfortable enough.

There was plenty of counter space in the bathroom, lots of towels and really good water pressure in the shower. I also appreciated having a bathroom fan, something that is strangely missing from a lot of hotel bathrooms.

But there were also signs of age everywhere.

The bathroom ceiling was chipped. The TV was old and difficult to use. We couldn't properly adjust the volume, and some of the channels were staticky. There also appeared to be an empty space where a mini fridge may have once been.

And here's one of those tiny hotel details that probably wouldn't bother everyone but definitely bothered me: there was no conditioner.

Luxor provided shampoo and body wash, but no conditioner. My hair does not cooperate with shampoo alone, so Tyrone ended up taking me to a grocery store so I could buy some.

Was any of this disastrous? No.

It just didn't feel like a room I was excited to come back to.

Saturday Check-In Was Rough

If you're arriving at Luxor on a busy weekend, give yourself some extra time.

Tyrone arrived around 6 PM on Saturday and ended up waiting about an hour to check in. The self-service kiosks weren't available, which pushed everyone into the regular check-in line.

Parking wasn't much better.

The garage was so full that Tyrone was worried about leaving to pick me up at the airport because he wasn't sure he'd find another spot when he returned.

We eventually found one by patiently waiting for someone else to leave.

Self-parking during our stay was $20 per day. They do have valet parking available but it’s a whopping $40 per day.

If you're staying over a weekend, I would factor both parking costs and extra arrival time into your plans.

Eating at Luxor Was Very Hit or Miss

You won't go hungry at Luxor, but the dining options ended up being one of the weaker parts of our stay.

Our first night, we arrived late and tried to eat at Diablo's Cantina. They were packed, so we eventually ended up downstairs at Public House.

The service was excellent. Our bartender was wonderful, and my watermelon margarita was really good.

The Mushroom Swiss burger?

That's another story.

It was so bad I couldn't finish it. Tyrone, who apparently has a much stronger commitment to not wasting food than I do, somehow ate the rest.

The next night we gave Diablo's another try, and strangely enough, we had almost the exact opposite experience.

The food was good. The cocktails were not.

My drink was far too sweet for me.

The Cheapest Breakfast Surprised Us

Breakfast at Luxor turned into its own little investigation.

We first looked at Backstage Deli, assuming that would be an inexpensive option. Then we saw a breakfast sandwich for around $16.

At that price, we figured we might as well eat at the Pyramid Café. But there was a long line there, and entrées were roughly $16 to $25 during our visit.

Then we checked Starbucks.

And somehow, Starbucks became our budget breakfast option in Las Vegas.

Their breakfast sandwiches were around $8, about half the price of the sandwich we had looked at elsewhere.

The Luxor Pool Was One of Our Favorite Parts

The pool was easily one of the highlights of our stay.

We went around noon on Sunday and were surprised to find plenty of lounge chairs available. We didn't reserve a daybed or cabana. We just grabbed regular chairs and spent a relaxing afternoon swimming and lying in the sun.

The whole atmosphere felt surprisingly chill.

There are two large pools, and our cocktails were around $16 each during our visit.

There Is Plenty to Do Without Leaving the Hotel

One advantage of staying at a huge Las Vegas resort is that you don't necessarily need to leave for entertainment.

Luxor had shows such as Blue Man Group and Carrot Top during our stay, along with PLAY Playground, which has oversized interactive games. We didn't get a chance to try PLAY, but it's something I'd like to do on another Vegas trip.

If Luxor's restaurant selection isn't enough, you can also use the free tram connecting Luxor with Mandalay Bay and Excalibur.

We've previously stayed at Mandalay Bay and much preferred its selection of restaurants and entertainment.

Luxor Las Vegas Pros and Cons

Pros

• Staying inside the pyramid is a uniquely Vegas experience

• Our room was quiet

• Nice pool view from our room

• Strong shower pressure

• Relaxing pool area with plenty of chairs during our Sunday visit

• Entertainment available within the resort

• Free tram provides easy access to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur

• Room rates can sometimes be very inexpensive

Cons

• Pyramid room felt dated

• Old TV with volume and reception issues

• No conditioner provided in our room

• Dining options felt limited compared with other Vegas resorts we've stayed at

• Food quality was inconsistent

• Very long Saturday check-in during our experience

• Parking garage was extremely busy

Would I Stay at Luxor Las Vegas Again?

Probably not. And I'm completely okay with that.

Going back gave Tyrone and me a chance to revisit a place connected to the beginning of our relationship. We stayed inside the pyramid again, rode the funny sideways inclinator, relaxed by the pool and got to relive a little piece of our story.

That made the weekend worth it.

But we've also stayed at quite a few Las Vegas hotels since our first Luxor visit. After experiencing places like Mandalay Bay and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Luxor ended up being my least favorite of the group. That's not because everything about it was bad. It simply doesn't offer the overall hotel experience I now know I can get elsewhere.

For a first-time visitor who finds a great rate and has always wanted to sleep inside that famous pyramid, I still think there's something fun about doing it once.

For us, once was apparently not enough.

Twice was.

And now I'm ready to leave our Luxor memories right where they are.

FAQ

• Is Luxor Las Vegas worth staying at?

  Luxor can be worth staying at if you find a good rate and want the unique experience of sleeping inside one of the most recognizable hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. The resort has multiple restaurants, pools, entertainment, a casino, spa and convenient access to neighboring resorts. We enjoyed the novelty of staying inside the pyramid and had a relaxing afternoon at the pool, but our particular Pyramid room felt dated compared with other Las Vegas hotels we've stayed at.

• Should I stay in a Luxor Pyramid room or Tower room?

  Luxor offers accommodations inside its iconic pyramid as well as its Tower buildings. Staying in the pyramid gives you the more unusual Luxor experience, complete with slanted walls and the hotel's diagonal inclinators. Luxor also offers updated Pyramid Premier accommodations, so not every room inside the pyramid will be like the room we stayed in. If having a more contemporary room is important to you, compare the current Pyramid and Tower room categories before booking.

• Does Luxor have restaurants?

  Yes. Luxor has considerably more dining options than the handful we tried during our stay. Current choices include Diablo's Cantina, TENDER Steakhouse + Lounge, Public House, Pyramid Café and Backstage Deli, along with Starbucks and other casual options. There's also a food court with quick-service restaurants including Johnny Rockets, Bonanno's Pizzeria, L.A. Subs, Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs and Original Chicken Tender.

• Does Luxor have a pool?

  Yes. Luxor's Oasis Pool complex currently features two spacious pools, complimentary lounge chairs for hotel guests, and upgraded seating options including private cabanas and daybeds. Complimentary towels are also available.

• Does Luxor have a refrigerator or coffee maker in the rooms?

  Standard Luxor rooms do not include refrigerators or coffee makers. Refrigerators can be rented for an additional fee, while complimentary small refrigerators may be requested for medical purposes, subject to availability. Suites include a refrigerator. Standard rooms also do not include microwaves.

• What time are check-in and check-out at Luxor?

  Luxor's standard check-in time is 3 PM, and check-out is 11 AM. Guests arriving before their room is ready can store luggage with the Bell Desk. Our Saturday evening arrival was particularly busy, and Tyrone waited about an hour to check in, so I would allow some extra time if you're arriving during a busy weekend.

• Does Luxor charge for parking?

  Yes. Luxor offers both paid self-parking and valet parking. During our stay, self-parking was $20 per day and valet parking was $40 per day.

• Is there a free tram from Luxor to Mandalay Bay?

  Yes. Luxor is connected to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur by the complimentary Mandalay Bay Tram. Luxor currently lists the tram as operating daily from 10 AM to midnight, although hours can change.

When I started planning my outfits for Las Vegas in September, I naively thought I would be packing for fall weather.

I was very wrong.

I visited Las Vegas from September 21–24 and when I checked the weather forecast before the trip, I was surprised to see temperatures were still going to be in the low 90s during the day.

I initially wasn’t even planning on packing a swimsuit!

Luckily, I checked the forecast before I finished packing because it was definitely still summer weather in Las Vegas. The evenings were a little more comfortable, with temperatures dropping into the upper 70s and low 80s.

I stayed at Circa in Downtown Las Vegas with my girlfriends, a hotel Crystal had previously stayed at with her boyfriend and really enjoyed. Since we were right in Fremont Street, I spent most of the trip walking around Downtown, going out for dinner and drinks, visiting Area15, and spending some time at the Circa’s Stadium Swim pool.

Here is what I actually wore during my late-September trip and what I would recommend packing if you’re visiting Las Vegas around the same time.

What Is the Weather Like in Las Vegas in September?

The biggest thing I learned from this trip is that September in Las Vegas does not necessarily mean fall weather.

During my September 21–24 trip, daytime temperatures were in the low 90s. Once the sun went down, it cooled off considerably and evenings were generally in the upper 70s to low 80s.

One thing I was really glad I packed was a lightweight sweater. Even though it was hot outside, the casinos had the air conditioning working really well, and I definitely got chilly indoors. I would recommend bringing a lightweight sweater or cardigan that’s easy to carry around and throw on when you’re inside.

For daytime outfits, I was most comfortable in lightweight tops, loose trousers, dresses, and sandals.

At night, I could comfortably wear jeans or trousers without feeling too hot.

And yes, I would definitely pack a swimsuit if you plan on enjoying some pool time.

My Late-September Las Vegas Packing List

Clothing

• Lightweight tanks and tops

• Loose or breathable trousers

• One pair of jeans

• A lightweight midi dress

• One light sweater or cardigan for travel and air-conditioned spaces

• Swimsuit

Shoes

• Comfortable sneakers

• Comfortable flats

• Sandals or a low kitten heel

Accessories

• Sunglasses

• Sun hat

• Small crossbody or shoulder bag

What I Wore on My Travel Day

Since Las Vegas is such a quick flight from Burbank, I wanted my travel outfit to be comfortable but still look put together once I arrived.

I wore my Varley The Wide Leg Pant in Pristine with the 32-inch inseam and paired them with my Quince Washable Stretch Silk V-Neck Cami. This was my first time wearing the Varley pants and I absolutely LOVE them. They are super soft and the waistband does not dig in at all making them comfy on flights.

I was a little concerned about wearing such a light color on my flight, but since it was only an hour-long trip my worries didn’t last long. I would probably think twice about choosing these for long-haul flights where spills and wear are more likely.

For an extra layer, I threw on my Quince Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt and casually wrapped it around my shoulders until I settled into my seat on the aircraft. It instantly made the outfit look more polished and chic. I definitely did not need cashmere outside once I got to Vegas, but it was perfect for the airport and airplane.

I finished the outfit with my trusty Adidas sneakers, which have been my go-to travel shoes for the past few years now.

SHOP MY TRAVEL OUTFIT

Varley The Wide Leg Pant • Quince Washable Stretch Silk V-Neck Cami • Quince Mongolian Shrunken Cashmere Sweatshirt • Adidas Sneakers

Rooftop Drinks at Circa

For drinks at Circa that evening, I wore my Favorite Daughter Brook Strapless Tweed Bustier Top with my Favorite Daughter Masha Jeans. Since the temperatures dropped into the upper 70s and low 80s at night, I was completely comfortable wearing jeans.

I wanted to dress up, but also feel comfortable. Jeans can sometimes read as too casual, yet when paired with the right blouse or tailored top they can be effortlessly elevated. I find that anything in tweed instantly adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, giving even the simplest outfit a more polished, dressed-up finish.

I paired the outfit with my woven Mary Jane Flats and carried my Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag.

I liked this outfit for Vegas because it felt dressed up enough for rooftop drinks without being overly dressy.

SHOP MY ROOFTOP OUTFIT

Favorite Daughter Brook Strapless Tweed Bustier Top • Favorite Daughter Masha Jeans (similar style)• Amazon Woven Ballet Flats • Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag

Daytime Outfit for Fremont Street

For exploring Fremont Street during the day, I wore my Stradivarius Sweetheart Bandeau Top with my Zara Relaxed White Trousers.

Even though it was in the 90s, the loose fit of the trousers kept them comfortable enough for walking around outside. I also wore my Gigi Pip Jolie Boater Straw Hat, which came in especially handy with the strong Vegas sun.

I was initially drawn to this style of hat because it reminded me of Audrey Hepburn. It has a strong vintage vibe, and the silhouette gives off a timeless, classy, elegant look. I’ve had this hat for several years now and I reach for it often. It's become one of my favorite go-to summer pieces.

For shoes, I wore my Quince Italian Leather Thong Kitten Heel Sandals. I like these sandals because the heel is low enough to comfortably walk around in, but they still make an outfit look more polished than a basic flat sandal.

SHOP MY FREMONT STREET OUTFIT

Stradivarius Sweetheart Bandeau Top • Zara Relaxed White Trousers (similar style) • Gigi Pip Jolie Boater Straw Hat (similar style) • Quince Italian Leather Thong Kitten Heel Sandals • Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag

Pool Outfit

This is the outfit I almost didn't pack.

I really thought late September might be a little too cool for the pool, but with daytime temperatures reaching the low 90s, it was absolutely still pool weather.

I wore my Marcella Molly Swimsuit with my Gigi Pip Jolie Boater Straw Hat.

My exact Marcella swimsuit is no longer available, but I love the minimal style and would look for a similar black swimsuit with an asymmetrical or one-shoulder design.

Shop at Marcella and use code TRAVEL_POCKETS10 for 10% off.

If you're going to Las Vegas in September, I would pack a swimsuit even if you're not sure whether you'll have time for the pool.

I'm glad I checked the weather before this trip because I definitely would have regretted leaving mine at home.

SHOP MY POOL LOOK

Marcella Molly Swimsuit (similar style) • Gigi Pip Jolie Boater Straw Hat (similar style)

What I Wore to Area15

For Area15, I wore my Rumored Antoinette Midi Dress (similar style).

I spent the day playing the Great Big Game Show, checking out some of the fun photo-op areas around Area15, and eating beignets, so I wanted something that was comfortable but would also look cute in photos.

The Antoinette Midi Dress was perfect for that. I wore this dress on my last trip to Oceanside, California and have been waiting for another opportunity to wear it again.

Unfortunately, my exact Rumored dress is sold out, but I would look for a similar cream or ivory midi dress with a fitted bodice and fuller skirt.

I paired the dress with my woven Mary Jane’s and carried my Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag.

SHOP MY AREA15 OUTFIT

Rumored Antoinette Midi Dress (similar style) • Woven Mary Jane’s • Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag

Nighttime Outfit for Fremont Street

For my last night in Las Vegas, I rewore my Stradivarius Sweetheart Bandeau Top.

This time, instead of pairing it with my white Zara trousers, I wore it with my H&M High-Waisted Flare & Cropped Trousers.

My exact H&M trousers are no longer available, but I found a similar style from Quince.

I also wore my Elisa Johnson Jane Aviator Sunglasses earlier in the evening and carried my Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag again. I don’t usually bother wearing sunglasses after dark, but hey, we’re in Vegas and wanted to look mysterious (🤣) in those night-lit photos.

I actually like repeating pieces when I travel and styling them differently instead of packing a completely new outfit for every day. It definitely helps me limit my packing to just a carry‑on, so I don’t have to pay the check‑in baggage fee.

The same top looked noticeably different with the black cropped trousers than it did with the relaxed white trousers I’d worn earlier in the trip. I’m still not sure which look I prefer, though the relaxed trousers were definitely the more comfortable option.

SHOP MY DINNER OUTFIT

Stradivarius Sweetheart Bandeau Top • H&M High-Waisted Flare & Cropped Trousers (similar style) • Elisa Johnson Jane Aviator Sunglasses • Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag

My Las Vegas Shoe Picks

Comfortable shoes ended up being especially important on this trip. Even though I was staying around Fremont Street instead of the Strip, I still did a lot of walking.

Best for travel: Adidas Sneakers
Best dressier sandal: Quince Italian Leather Thong Kitten Heel Sandal
Best for dinner and walking: Woven Mary Janes (This one was my favorite)

The Bag I Wore the Most

I brought my Lo & Sons Aoyama Bag and ended up carrying it with almost every outfit.

It's small enough that it never felt bulky while I was walking around, but it still had enough room for the essentials I wanted with me.

This bag can be worn multiple ways, so for example during the day I can wear it as a crossbody or on the shoulder, and at night I can carry it by the top handle for a more polished look. I like that the simple, versatile design worked with everything from my casual daytime outfits to my dressier evening looks.

If I were packing for this trip again, this is definitely the bag I would bring.

What I Would Pack Again for Las Vegas in September

These were the pieces that ended up being the most useful during my late-September trip:

• One light cardigan for the indoor air conditioning

• One small bag that works with multiple outfits

• A swimsuit

• Hat or Sunglasses

I definitely would not pack a heavy fall wardrobe.

Even though my trip was at the end of September, it still felt much more like summer than fall.

What I Would Wear in Las Vegas in September

The biggest surprise for me was just how hot Las Vegas still was at the end of September.

I originally pictured myself packing more fall-inspired outfits and almost left my swimsuit at home. In reality, lightweight summer clothes were what I needed the most.

The nice thing about visiting later in September was that the evenings cooled down enough that I could comfortably wear jeans and trousers for dinner and drinks.

If I were packing for the same trip again, I would focus on lightweight daytime outfits, a few slightly dressier options for nighttime, comfortable shoes, and definitely a swimsuit.

September in Las Vegas may technically be the beginning of fall, but based on my trip, I would still pack for summer.

Sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones you never planned.

I had absolutely no intention of staying at Mandalay Bay during this Las Vegas trip. In fact, the idea didn't even exist until about three hours before I checked in.

A couple of days earlier, I visited Swingers, the mini golf experience inside Mandalay Bay, with my boyfriend, Tyrone. While we were walking around the resort waiting for our reservation, we caught a glimpse of Mandalay Bay Beach.

There was a sandy beach. A wave pool. And, most importantly to me, a lazy river.

I love lazy rivers.

We looked at each other and thought, "We should come back here one day just for the pool."

Well, "one day" turned out to be about 48 hours later.

How We Ended Up Booking Mandalay Bay at the Last Minute

On the morning of August 20, 2026, I decided to check Mandalay Bay's room rates just to see how much it would cost to stay there for a night.

To my surprise, I found a Resort King room for $124.94 total, including the resort fee, and our offer also came with a $50 food and beverage credit.

At that point, staying there for the night seemed like a no-brainer.

I asked Tyrone if he wanted to just book a room and make a pool day out of it. A few hours later, we were checking into Mandalay Bay.

If you count the full $50 food and beverage credit, which we had no trouble using, our effective cost was about $75.

And really, we weren't booking Mandalay Bay because we needed another hotel room.

We booked it for the pool.

Of course, Las Vegas hotel prices can vary quite a bit depending on the day, season and what's happening in town. We happened to find this deal for a Thursday night in August, so it's always worth checking rates for your dates.

Mandalay Bay Beach Was the Reason We Booked

Mandalay Bay doesn't have your typical hotel pool.

Mandalay Bay Beach is an enormous pool complex with a sandy beach, wave pool, lazy river and several other pool areas.

It feels more like spending the day at a small water park than hanging out at a regular Vegas hotel pool.

We arrived close to noon on a Thursday in August, and it was definitely busy.

At first, I thought we might have trouble finding somewhere to sit. But even though the pool was packed, there were still plenty of standard lounge chairs available.

The harder thing to find was shade.

Most of the shaded areas were associated with reserved seating or cabanas, although there were some complimentary chairs with shade scattered around.

We weren't too concerned about it because we planned on spending most of our time in the water anyway. We would float around the lazy river, relax on our chairs for a little while, then get right back in the water.

If having shade is important to you, I'd try to get to the pool earlier.

The Mandalay Bay Lazy River Was My Favorite

This was what I had been waiting for.

We went around the lazy river several times throughout the afternoon, and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of Mandalay Bay Beach.

There's something so relaxing about floating around a lazy river under the Vegas sun with palm trees all around you.

We'd float for a while, get out and relax on our lounge chairs, then eventually decide it was time for another lap.

But there's something you should know before heading to the lazy river.

Bring Your Own Tube

When we first saw the lazy river a few days earlier, I noticed quite a few people carrying their own tubes.

I wondered why, so I looked into it.

We learned that tubes weren't simply provided for everyone using the lazy river. I had also read online that purchasing tubes at the resort could get expensive, so we decided to make a quick Walmart stop before checking in.

We found two Ozark Trail river tubes for $5 each.

So instead of spending a lot of money on tubes at the resort, we spent just $10 for both of us.

They worked perfectly.

Tyrone even manually inflated both giant tubes for us before we headed to the pool.

Then we discovered Mandalay Bay had an inflation station.

Sorry, Tyrone.

At least he got a free workout out of it.

If you're planning to bring your own tube, I'd check Mandalay Bay's current pool rules before your trip since requirements can change.

The Wave Pool Was Fun and Surprisingly Nostalgic

We also spent some time in the wave pool.

It wasn't my favorite part of the pool complex, but it brought back a memory I hadn't thought about in years.

When I was growing up in Japan, I used to go to an indoor swimming facility that had a wave pool. I remember sitting there for hours and letting the waves roll toward me.

Being in the Mandalay Bay wave pool suddenly reminded me of that.

It's funny how something as simple as a swimming pool can take you right back to being a kid.

The experience at Mandalay Bay was a little different, though.

The lifeguards here were very attentive.

There was a lot of whistle blowing.

At one point, we sat down near the shore where the waves were coming in and immediately got whistled at to stand up. After that, every time I heard a whistle, I wondered if we were doing something wrong again.

We joked that it felt a little like pool boot camp.

One useful thing to know if you're visiting with kids is that Mandalay Bay currently requires guests to be at least 48 inches tall to enter the wave pool.

Don't Skip the Quieter Pools

The lazy river was probably the highlight for me, but I also really enjoyed the quieter pool areas.

After spending most of the day going around the lazy river and checking out the wave pool, we eventually wandered over to one of the calmer pools.

It was such a nice change of pace.

There were fewer people, no waves and no need to go anywhere. We could just get in the water and relax.

Toward the end of our pool day, that's exactly what we wanted.

If you're staying at Mandalay Bay, I'd definitely explore beyond the lazy river and wave pool. The quieter pools don't get nearly as much attention, but they ended up being one of my favorite parts of the entire afternoon.

Food and Drinks at the Mandalay Bay Pool

Vegas resort prices are Vegas resort prices.

We ordered chicken tenders with fries and a bottle of water at the pool, and with the tip, we spent around $38.

Luckily, we had our $50 food and beverage credit.

That one meal alone used up most of it.

We also ordered two cocktails from the pool bar for around $20 each.

Those I wouldn't order again.

They looked good, but we both thought they tasted a little watered down. For around $20 a drink, I expected more.

Mandalay Bay has food and drinks available inside the pool area, so you don't have to leave when you get hungry. Just expect typical Las Vegas resort pricing.

Our Surprisingly Easy Early Check-In

We arrived at Mandalay Bay around 11 to 11:30 a.m., several hours before the normal afternoon check-in time.

Since our whole reason for staying there was the pool, I was hoping we'd somehow be able to get into our room early.

When we arrived, the front desk line was pretty long.

While we were standing there, I remembered that Mandalay Bay had sent me a text with an online check-in link.

I figured I'd give it a try.

I completed the online check-in while we were waiting, and shortly afterward, I received another text saying our room was ready.

I couldn't believe it.

There was a separate self-service kiosk area nearby with practically no line, so we walked over, printed our room keys and were done.

It was incredibly convenient.

The staff member helping people in the check-in area was also really friendly and stayed with us through the process until we had our keys.

Obviously, getting a room that early isn't something I'd count on. But if Mandalay Bay sends you an online check-in link, it's definitely worth trying.

Our Mandalay Bay Resort King Room

Considering we booked Mandalay Bay almost entirely for the pool, I wasn't expecting to care that much about the room.

But the room really surprised me.

Our Resort King felt huge.

There was so much open space around the bed, plus two large nightstands, a long cushioned bench, extra seating, a desk area and two large closets.

The bench at the foot of the bed was especially useful because we could put both of our carry-on suitcases on it instead of leaving them on the floor.

There was also an ottoman that gave us even more room for our things.

The king bed was extremely comfortable, and the room got wonderfully dark at night.

We slept really well.

Unfortunately, that darkness wasn't quite as wonderful during the daytime.

My Biggest Complaint: The Room Was Too Dark

This was easily my biggest complaint about our room.

There just wasn't enough natural light.

Even with all the lamps turned on, the room still felt dark during the day. The window only covered part of the wall, so we weren't getting much sunlight inside either.

It wasn't something that would stop me from staying here again, especially since we weren't spending much time in the room.

But if you like bright hotel rooms with lots of natural light, it's something to keep in mind.

Our view wasn't particularly exciting either. We could see the stadium and Luxor in the distance, but we definitely weren't booking this room for the view.

The Bathroom Was One of the Best Parts of the Room

The bathroom was fantastic.

We had two sinks with plenty of counter space, a large soaking tub, a separate stand-up shower and a separate toilet area.

It felt spacious enough that we could both get ready without being on top of each other.

And because we were only staying one night, we made sure to use that giant tub before checking out the next morning.

If you're paying for the room, you might as well use the amenities.

Be Careful With the Minibar

One small room tip that could save you some money: be careful with the minibar.

The refrigerator in our room was stocked with items for purchase and appeared to use sensors.

We were careful not to remove anything because we didn't want to accidentally get charged for something we weren't using.

Tyrone managed to find a little space near the top to keep some water cool without disturbing anything.

Dinner at Libertine Social

There are plenty of places to eat inside Mandalay Bay, so we decided there was no reason to leave the resort for dinner.

We tried Libertine Social and really enjoyed it.

We ordered two flatbreads, a dessert and two cocktails, and the total came to around $100.

Once you start adding cocktails to a Vegas dinner, the bill climbs very quickly.

Between dinner and what we'd already purchased at the pool, we had absolutely no problem using our $50 food and beverage credit.

If you're comparing Mandalay Bay room offers and see one that includes a dining credit, I wouldn't worry too much about whether you'll be able to use it.

We certainly did.

Getting Around From Mandalay Bay

One thing to keep in mind is that Mandalay Bay is located toward the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip.

If most of your plans are around Bellagio, Caesars Palace or the center of the Strip, you're not going to be right in the middle of everything.

But Mandalay Bay does have a complimentary tram that connects the resort with Luxor and Excalibur.

We didn't use the tram during this stay, but it's nice to know it's there if you want to explore this part of the Strip without walking the entire way.

If you're driving, I'd also check the current MGM parking rates before your trip since parking prices can change.

Mandalay Bay Pros and Cons

Pros

• Mandalay Bay Beach is the star of the resort.

• Lazy river is fun and relaxing.

• Quieter pools give you somewhere to escape the busiest areas.

• Wave pool adds something different from a typical Vegas hotel pool.

• Plenty of complimentary lounge chairs were still available when we arrived around noon.

• Our Resort King room was extremely spacious.

• Large bathroom with two sinks, soaking tub and separate shower.

• Very comfortable bed.

• Online check-in and self-service kiosks made arrival easy.

• Lots of restaurants and entertainment without having to leave the resort.

• Complimentary tram makes it easier to reach Luxor and Excalibur.

• Can be an excellent value if you find a good room promotion.

Cons

• The main pool areas can get very crowded.

• Complimentary shaded seating was harder to find later in the day.

• Food and cocktails at the pool are expensive.

• We didn't think our pool cocktails were worth $20 each.

• Our room was very dark during the daytime.

• Our particular room didn't have much of a view.

• Mandalay Bay is farther south than many of the major central Strip resorts.

• Lazy river tubes aren't something I'd assume will be included, so check the current policy before your trip.

So, Is Mandalay Bay Worth It?

For us, absolutely.

But I also think the price we found played a big role in that.

We paid $124.94 total including the resort fee, and our package came with a $50 food and beverage credit.

At that price, I'd book it again without hesitation.

What started as us simply wanting to try a cool Vegas pool turned into one of those spontaneous travel days that I think we'll remember more than some of the things we actually planned.

We spent the afternoon floating around a lazy river, took a few trips into the wave pool, escaped to the quieter pools when we wanted to relax, ate dinner at the resort and ended the night in a surprisingly spacious hotel room.

Was everything perfect?

No.

The room was too dark for me. The drinks were expensive. The pool was crowded.

But none of those things outweighed how much fun we had.

And when I think back on this stay, the thing I remember most is floating around that lazy river with Tyrone and thinking:

I'm really glad we decided to do this.

Sometimes the last-minute decisions turn into the best travel memories.

Mandalay Bay FAQ

• Does Mandalay Bay Have a Lazy River?

  Yes. The lazy river was actually one of our favorite parts of Mandalay Bay Beach. We went around it several times throughout the afternoon.

• Should I Bring My Own Tube to the Mandalay Bay Lazy River?

  Yes. Currently, you have to buy a tube at Mandalay Bay (not rent) and it’s quite expensive at the hotel. We bought ours at Walmart for $5 each before checking in. I'd check Mandalay Bay's current rules before your trip since tube requirements and policies can change.

• Does Mandalay Bay Have a Wave Pool?

  Yes. There's a large wave pool at Mandalay Bay Beach. It was fun and brought back some childhood memories for me, although the lazy river and quieter pools were personally my favorite parts of the pool complex.

• Is It Hard to Find a Lounge Chair at Mandalay Bay Beach?

  No. We arrived close to noon on a busy Thursday in August and still found plenty of complimentary lounge chairs. Shade was much harder to find, though. If shade is important to you, I'd arrive earlier.

• Are Food and Drinks Expensive at the Mandalay Bay Pool?

  Yes. Chicken tenders, fries and bottled water came to around $38 including tip, and our cocktails were about $20 each.

• Is Mandalay Bay Good for a Pool Vacation in Las Vegas?

  Yes. I think this is where Mandalay Bay really shines. If having a lazy river, wave pool and multiple swimming areas matters more to you than being in the center of the Strip, it's definitely worth considering.

I recently spent three nights at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas with my boyfriend, Tyrone. I originally chose this hotel because one of my favorite bands, Interpol, was performing at The Theater inside the resort. Since Tyrone lives in Las Vegas, it was the perfect excuse to spend a few nights together, enjoy the hotel and see the concert without having to worry about driving anywhere afterward.

What surprised me most about Virgin Hotels Las Vegas was how large the resort was. I originally pictured a hotel with a casino, concert venue and a few restaurants, but there's actually a lot to do here. The property has a resort-style pool, casino, multiple restaurants and bars, event spaces and The Theater.

We ended up spending quite a bit of our three-night stay simply enjoying the resort rather than constantly heading to the Strip.

After experiencing the room, pool, restaurants and entertainment, here's what I liked about Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, what I didn't, and who I think this off-Strip hotel is best for.

Where Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas?

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is located on Paradise Road, just east of the Las Vegas Strip.

The location is probably one of the biggest things to consider before booking this hotel.

According to Google Maps, Planet Hollywood is a little over a mile away and roughly a 30-minute walk. While that's technically walkable, Las Vegas gets extremely hot during the summer, so I wouldn't plan on regularly walking between the hotel and the Strip.

We had a car since Tyrone lives in Las Vegas, but if you don't have one, Uber and Lyft are easy options for getting to the Strip.

If your Vegas vacation is mainly about spending every day exploring the Strip and you want to be able to walk out of your hotel directly onto Las Vegas Boulevard, I would probably choose a hotel on the Strip instead.

However, if you're looking for more of a resort experience where you can enjoy the pool, restaurants and entertainment on-site and only head to the Strip occasionally, I think Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a great option. That's essentially how we spent our stay, and I really enjoyed it.

Free Parking at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

One perk I really appreciated was free parking.

Since we had a car, being able to park without adding another daily expense to our stay was a nice benefit.

There are different parking areas around the property, and we found the Paradise Parking Garage to be the more convenient option for accessing the hotel rooms.

One thing that surprised me about the entire property was just how large it was. There's quite a bit of walking between the hotel rooms, casino, restaurants and other amenities, although that's certainly not unusual for a large Las Vegas casino resort.

Tyrone didn't mind at all. He said he was getting his cardio in every day!

Our Resort One King Chamber

I booked a Resort One King Chamber, which is approximately 460 square feet with a dedicated dressing area and plenty of closet space.

Our room was 30721 on the seventh floor.

Overall, I was really happy with the room. It was spacious, quiet and comfortable. We didn't have any problems with noise during our stay, the bed was very comfortable, and the elevators moved surprisingly quickly.

Our view wasn't anything spectacular. We mostly looked out over a parking garage, although we could see a little bit of the Strip and the Sphere in the distance.

I wasn't staying here for the view, though, so that didn't bother me.

Separate Vanity and Dressing Area

One of my favorite features of the room was the separate vanity and dressing area.

There was a vanity where I could actually sit down to do my makeup and hair instead of having to stand in the bathroom. There was also a full-length mirror, which I always appreciate when I'm getting ready and want to see my entire outfit.

There was plenty of storage as well, with two areas for clothes and luggage along with a digital safe.

For two people staying three nights, we had more than enough space.

Bathroom and Shower

The bathroom had one sink with plenty of counter space, nice lighting, a hair dryer, towels and Red Flower bath products.

The shower had both a rain shower head and a separate handheld shower head.

I did have one minor complaint about the handheld shower. It was positioned pretty low, and I would have preferred being able to place it closer to normal shower-head height.

We also had a slightly annoying issue with the toilet in our particular room. The toilet seat wasn't completely aligned, so it would shift and make a rocking noise whenever we sat down.

Obviously, that's most likely an issue specific to Room 30721 rather than something you're going to encounter throughout the hotel, but it was one of those little things that started getting on my nerves after three nights.

Lounge Area and Room Amenities

Another feature I really liked was the separate lounge area.

I love having somewhere comfortable to sit in a hotel room other than the bed, especially when I'm staying for several nights.

The room also had remote-controlled lighting near the bed, outlets, a TV, an ice bucket and other standard hotel amenities. The ice machine was conveniently located near our elevators as well.

The Minibar Refrigerator Was Annoying

One room feature I definitely didn't like was the refrigerator.

There was technically a refrigerator in the room, but it was completely stocked with minibar items, so we couldn't really use it to store our own drinks or food.

According to the information in our room, there was a $40 charge if we wanted the minibar items removed.

I would much rather have an empty refrigerator that guests can actually use, especially in Las Vegas where it's nice to be able to keep your own drinks cold.

The Pool at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

The pool ended up being one of my favorite parts of our stay.

We dedicated one day to doing basically nothing except hanging out at the pool for four or five hours, having some drinks and relaxing.

The atmosphere was very chill, and there was a bar and food available along with games like cornhole and ping pong. We thought about playing some games, but eventually decided we were too lazy and went right back to relaxing.

My biggest tip is to arrive early if getting a good lounge chair is important to you.

During our stay, the pool opened at 9:00 AM. We arrived around 9:30 AM and were surprised to find that most of the lounge chairs were already taken, particularly the chairs around the sandy beach area.

If I stayed here again and planned another pool day, I'd try to arrive right around opening.

Restaurants at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Another thing I really enjoyed was having so many places to eat without leaving the resort.

We tried several restaurants during our stay, including breakfast at The Kitchen at Commons Club, dinner at Kassi Beach House, and Lucia Mexican Grill, which we ended up visiting more than once because we really enjoyed the drinks.

Kassi Beach House served Italian-inspired dishes, and we had some great pasta there. At Lucia Mexican Grill, we loaded up on chips and salsa, and I especially enjoyed the margaritas.

There are plenty of other options around the resort as well, including Nobu, pizza, Dunkin' and a cute coffee shop with a trendy seating area that made a fun photo spot.

There are also two convenience stores inside the resort, which is handy if you forget something like toothpaste or need to pick up medicine or other basics.

Is Food Expensive at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas?

As you'd probably expect at a Las Vegas resort, eating inside the hotel isn't cheap.

What surprised me most was Dunkin'.

I assumed it would be one of the cheaper breakfast options, but the breakfast sandwiches were around $10 each during our stay. Once Tyrone and I ordered sandwiches and drinks, we spent around $50.

At that point, it was almost the same price as sitting down and having the breakfast buffet at The Kitchen.

As for the breakfast buffet itself, I thought it was okay. They had a made-to-order omelet station, which was nice, but I wasn't particularly impressed with the rest of the selection.

If you're trying to save money, you'll find less expensive options outside the resort. But if convenience is more important, I really liked having so many choices without needing to leave the hotel.

Hilton Gold Benefits at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is part of Hilton's Curio Collection, and I'm a Hilton Gold member through one of my credit cards.

This ended up giving me some great benefits during our stay.

One of the best was a $15 per person daily food and beverage credit. Since Tyrone and I were both registered in the room, that gave us a total of $30 per day to put toward eligible food and drinks at the hotel.

Hilton Gold members may also receive complimentary room upgrades based on availability. There weren't any free upgrades available when I checked in, and since our Resort One King Chamber was already plenty big enough, I was perfectly happy keeping our original room.

But my favorite perk was the 2:00 PM late checkout I received.

Standard checkout was 11:00 AM, and I was expecting maybe noon or 1:00 PM when I asked about a late checkout. Instead, the front desk gave me until 2:00 PM, which made our departure day much more relaxing.

Of course, Hilton Honors benefits and availability can change, so I recommend checking the current benefits associated with your status before your stay.

Staying at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas for a Concert

If you're attending a concert at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, this is where I think staying at the hotel really shines.

Seeing Interpol was the entire reason I booked Virgin Hotels Las Vegas in the first place.

On the night of the concert, we were able to leave our room about 30 minutes before the show, head downstairs and walk right into the venue.

No driving. No parking. No worrying about getting an Uber after the concert.

And once the show was over, we simply walked back to our room.

That was incredibly convenient, and if I were attending another concert at The Theater, I would absolutely consider staying here again.

Pros and Cons of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

After spending three nights here, these were the biggest pros and cons for me.

Pros

• Spacious and quiet room

• Very comfortable bed

• Separate vanity and dressing area

• Relaxing resort-style pool

• Lots of restaurants and dining options

• Free parking

• Friendly and helpful customer service

• Very convenient for concerts at The Theater

• Great Hilton Gold benefits during my stay

Cons

• Off-Strip location isn't ideal if most of your vacation will be spent on the Strip

• Food and drinks inside the resort can get expensive

• Minibar refrigerator wasn't available for personal use without paying to have it emptied

• Handheld shower head was positioned too low for my preference

• Our particular room had an annoying rocking toilet seat

Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Worth Staying At?

For me, yes, but I don't think it's the right Las Vegas hotel for everyone.

If your idea of a Vegas vacation is waking up every morning, walking outside and immediately being on Las Vegas Boulevard, I'd probably stay directly on the Strip instead.

But if you're looking for more of a resort experience where you can spend a relaxing day by the pool, have plenty of restaurants and entertainment without leaving the property, and only head over to the Strip occasionally, I think Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a great option.

And if you're attending a concert at The Theater, I'd put it even higher on the list.

I originally booked the hotel because I wanted the convenience of staying where Interpol was performing. But I ended up really enjoying the resort itself.

Between our relaxing pool day, dinners and margaritas, comfortable room, Hilton Gold perks and being able to simply walk downstairs for the concert, it turned into exactly the kind of relaxing Vegas stay I wanted.

Thinking about staying here? Check current rates and availability at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

• Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on the Strip?

  No. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is located on Paradise Road, east of the Las Vegas Strip. If being directly on Las Vegas Boulevard is important to you, I would choose a Strip hotel instead.

• Can You Walk From Virgin Hotels Las Vegas to the Strip?

  Yes, but whether you'll actually want to depends on the weather and where you're going. According to Google Maps, Planet Hollywood is a little over a mile away and approximately a 30-minute walk. During the hot summer months, I would personally drive or use Uber or Lyft instead.

• Does Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Have Free Parking?

  Parking was free during my stay. We found the Paradise Parking Garage to be the more convenient garage for accessing the hotel rooms.

• Does Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Have a Pool?

  Yes. The resort pool was one of my favorite parts of our stay. I recommend arriving early if you want a good lounge chair. When we arrived at approximately 9:30 AM, just 30 minutes after the pool opened, many of the chairs were already occupied.

• Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Good for Attending a Concert at The Theater?

  Absolutely. This was one of my favorite things about staying here. We were able to leave our room shortly before the Interpol concert, walk downstairs to The Theater and return directly to our room afterward.

• Is Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Worth It?

  I think Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is worth considering if you want a resort experience and don't need to stay directly on the Strip. If your priority is being within easy walking distance of the major Strip casinos and attractions, I'd choose a hotel on Las Vegas Boulevard instead.

Information in this guide was last updated August 31, 2026. Travel rules, prices and procedures can change, so we recommend confirming current details with the relevant official source before your trip.

We travel to Japan yearly and are always keeping an eye on updates that could actually affect a trip. We aren't talking about small policy changes most tourists will never notice. These are changes that could affect how much you pay, how you ride the bullet train (Shinkansen), how tax-free shopping works, what you can bring on the plane, and even how much your hotel in Kyoto costs.

Several important Japan travel changes took effect in 2026, with a few more rolling out later in the year. If you're planning a trip to Japan, these are five of the most important updates to know before you go.

1. Japan Rail Pass Prices Are Changing on October 1, 2026

The Japan Rail Pass is getting another price adjustment starting October 1, 2026, but there is an important detail travelers should know.

If you purchase an Exchange Order through an overseas JR-designated travel agency on or after October 1, the adult Ordinary Pass prices increase to:

• 7-day pass: ¥50,000 → ¥53,000

• 14-day pass: ¥80,000 → ¥84,000

• 21-day pass: ¥100,000 → ¥105,000

Green Car passes are also increasing.

However, as of August 31, 2026, the official JAPAN RAIL PASS website is still listing the current prices of ¥50,000, ¥80,000 and ¥100,000 when purchasing directly online. The price increase currently shown on the official site specifically applies to purchases made through overseas JR-designated agencies.

So if you're planning to buy a Japan Rail Pass, definitely compare your purchasing options before automatically buying through a travel agency.

It's also worth doing the math before buying a Rail Pass at all. At these prices, the nationwide pass does not automatically save money for every itinerary.

For example, if you're only traveling between Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, individual Shinkansen tickets may make more sense. The Rail Pass tends to become more useful when you're covering longer distances or making several expensive train trips within a short period.

What this means for travelers: Don't automatically assume you need a Japan Rail Pass. Price out your actual train itinerary first, and if you do want the pass, compare the official online price with overseas agency pricing before purchasing.

2. Tax-Free Shopping Is Completely Changing in November

This is probably the change that surprised us the most because we've been using Japan's tax-free shopping system for years.

Until October 31, 2026, the process works the way many repeat Japan travelers are used to. We show our passports when making an eligible purchase at a tax-free store, and the consumption tax is removed at the time of purchase.

Starting November 1, 2026, that changes.

Instead of receiving the tax exemption immediately, travelers will pay the full tax-inclusive price at the store. You'll still show your passport at a participating tax-free shop, but instead of having the tax removed at checkout, you'll register the refund method offered by that retailer or its refund provider.

Then, when you're leaving Japan, you'll need to complete the tax-free departure procedure at your final airport or seaport before leaving the country.

Before checking any luggage containing your tax-free purchases, you'll scan your passport at a tax-free procedure terminal in the international departure area. At several major airports, including Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, New Chitose, Fukuoka and Naha, travelers may also be able to begin the process through Visit Japan Web in designated areas.

The system will determine whether customs needs to physically inspect your purchases.

Once customs confirms that you're taking the eligible items out of Japan, the tax-free store or its refund provider can process your refund. Depending on the retailer, the refund method may vary, so it's a good idea to ask how the refund will be issued when you make your purchase.

You'll Need to Keep Your Purchases Accessible

This is probably the biggest practical difference for us.

You need to complete the tax-free customs procedure before checking luggage containing those purchases, because Customs may ask to see the items.

Basically, the process will look like this:

Arrive at the international departure lobby.

1. Go to a tax-free procedure terminal or kiosk before airline baggage check-in.

2. Scan your passport.

3. If you get a green result, you're finished with the tax-free procedure.

4. If you get a red result, take the relevant purchases to the designated Customs inspection area.

5. Once that's complete, go to your airline counter and check your luggage.

That's a big change from how we've traveled in the past. Starting in November, we're going to have to make sure our tax-free purchases are still easy to access until we've completed the customs procedure, just in case we get a red result.

There's also another major change for anyone who loves buying Japanese snacks, cosmetics and other consumable items.

The old special sealed plastic bag requirement is going away, which we're definitely happy about. Those sealed bags were actually somewhat of a pain to pack, especially when we had several of them.

But this is where things can get a little complicated: Customs verifies tax-free purchases by transaction. If an item from a tax-free transaction is missing because you used it, ate it or otherwise don't have it with you when required for inspection, the other items from that same transaction may also lose their eligibility for the refund.

Travel Pockets Tip: If you're buying snacks, cosmetics or other things you think you might want to use while you're still in Japan, consider purchasing those separately from the items you plan to claim tax-free. It could make it much easier to keep track of everything.

What this means for travelers: You won't receive the tax savings immediately at the store anymore. You'll pay the full price when you shop, keep your tax-free purchases accessible, complete the customs procedure before checking luggage containing those items, and then the retailer or its refund provider will process your refund.

3. Nozomi Shinkansen Trains Have More All-Reserved Travel Periods

If you're traveling the popular Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka route, this is an important one.

The Nozomi is the fastest Shinkansen service on the Tokaido Shinkansen route and is one of the most convenient ways to travel between Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

Normally, Nozomi trains have both reserved and non-reserved seating.

During certain busy travel periods, however, JR converts the entire Nozomi train to reserved seating only.

This isn't completely new, but the number of affected travel periods has expanded considerably in 2026.

In 2025, the all-reserved system was used during three major peak periods: Golden Week, Obon and the year-end/New Year holidays.

JR Central's current 2026 schedule includes:

• Golden Week: April 24 to May 6, 2026

• Obon: August 7 to August 16, 2026

• Silver Week: September 18 to September 23, 2026

• Sports Day weekend: October 10 to October 12, 2026

• Labor Thanksgiving Day weekend: November 21 to November 23, 2026

• Year-end/New Year: December 25, 2026 to January 5, 2027

• Coming of Age Day weekend: January 9 to January 11, 2027

• Vernal Equinox weekend: March 20 to March 22, 2027

During these dates, regular non-reserved seats are not available on Nozomi trains between Tokyo and Hakata.

If you have a non-reserved ticket, JR does allow passengers to board a Nozomi and stand in designated areas under certain conditions, but that's probably not how most of us want to spend a long Shinkansen ride.

Hikari, Kodama and other Shinkansen services continue to offer non-reserved seating during these periods, although those trains may also be more crowded.

What this means for travelers: If your trip falls during one of these busy periods, reserve your Shinkansen seat ahead of time instead of planning to show up at the station and grab a non-reserved seat.

4. Kyoto's Hotel Tax Got More Expensive

If Kyoto is part of your Japan itinerary, your hotel stay may cost a little more than expected.

Kyoto has had an accommodation tax since 2018, but the city significantly changed the rates on March 1, 2026.

The tax is charged per person, per night and is based on the cost of your accommodation.

The new rates are:

• Under ¥6,000 per person/night: ¥200

• ¥6,000 to ¥19,999: ¥400

• ¥20,000 to ¥49,999: ¥1,000

• ¥50,000 to ¥99,999: ¥4,000

• ¥100,000 or more: ¥10,000

The higher-end categories saw the biggest increases.

Previously, a stay costing ¥50,000 or more per person per night was taxed at ¥1,000. Under the new system, a stay between ¥50,000 and ¥99,999 is taxed at ¥4,000, while stays of ¥100,000 or more are taxed at ¥10,000 per person per night.

And here's something to be aware of if you booked your Kyoto hotel well in advance: the tax is based on the date of the actual stay, not when you made the reservation.

Kyoto City says that even if you booked before the new rates were finalized, stays beginning March 1, 2026 or later are subject to the new rates. If you prepaid the old tax amount, the hotel may collect the difference.

What this means for travelers: Factor the accommodation tax into your Kyoto hotel budget, particularly if you're booking a luxury hotel or traveling with multiple people.

5. Japan Introduced New Power Bank Rules for Air Travel

If you travel with portable chargers like we do, this is one to check before your flight.

Japan introduced stricter rules for mobile batteries and power banks beginning April 24, 2026 after international aviation safety standards were updated in response to lithium battery fire risks.

Under Japan's new rules:

• You can carry a maximum of two power banks

• Each must be 160Wh or less

• Power banks cannot go in checked luggage

• You cannot charge a power bank onboard the aircraft

• You cannot use the power bank to charge another electronic device while onboard

These restrictions were introduced following an emergency revision to international standards from the International Civil Aviation Organization, so this isn't something happening only in Japan. Individual airlines may also have their own rules that are equal to or stricter than Japan's requirements.

Because airline policies can vary, we recommend checking your specific airline's power bank policy before heading to the airport.

What this means for travelers: Check the Wh rating on your portable charger, don't pack it in checked baggage, bring no more than two when traveling under these rules, and make sure your devices are charged before boarding.

What These Japan Travel Changes Mean for Us

I think the change that will affect us the most is the new tax-free shopping process. Honestly, having to complete the tax-free customs procedure at the airport before we can check our luggage sounds like a bit of a pain. We like to have everything packed and taken care of before we head to the airport, so adding another step before airline check-in is definitely going to take some getting used to.

I also never liked those sealed plastic bags for tax-free purchases, so I’m happy to see that requirement go away. They were always a little awkward to pack, especially when we ended up with several of them.

But now I’m wondering how we’re going to keep track of all of our tax-free purchases among everything else packed in our suitcases, especially since Customs may ask to see the items from a particular transaction. We’ll probably have to be much more organized about how we pack our shopping and keep certain purchases easy to access.

I guess we’ll find out on our next trip to Japan how smoothly the new system actually works in practice. We’ll definitely update this post once we’ve gone through the process ourselves.

The expanded Nozomi reservation periods are also worth paying attention to, especially if your itinerary includes Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka during a Japanese holiday weekend.

Our biggest advice is to double-check the details that used to feel automatic. Don't assume the Rail Pass is still the best value, set time asside at the airport to process your tax-free purchases, and don't wait until you're standing on the Shinkansen platform to find out that every seat requires a reservation.

Japan is still one of our favorite countries to visit, and knowing about these changes before you arrive can make your trip a lot smoother.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

If you're looking for a modern hotel right in the heart of Fremont Street, Circa Resort & Casino has probably caught your eye. As one of the newest hotels in Downtown Las Vegas, it stands out from the historic casinos that give Fremont its classic Vegas charm.

I recently stayed at Circa in a Corner Studio room overlooking Stadium Swim, and after spending several days exploring the property, eating at its restaurants, relaxing by the pool, and experiencing everything it has to offer, here's our honest review.

Quick Facts

Location: Downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street Experience

Adults Only: Yes (21+)

Room Type: Corner Studio

Best For: Couples, friends, sports fans, and anyone looking for a lively Downtown Las Vegas experience

A Romantic Surprise to Start Our Stay

One of the most memorable parts of my stay had nothing to do with the hotel itself.

My boyfriend surprised me with a Corner Studio room overlooking Stadium Swim, and when I opened the door, there were rose petals leading to the bed, which had a heart made of roses. It completely caught me off guard and made the entire stay feel even more special.

It was such a thoughtful surprise and the perfect way to begin our weekend in Las Vegas.

Our Corner Studio Room

I absolutely loved our room.

The Corner Studio felt spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Stadium Swim and Downtown Las Vegas. The room had a comfortable seating area with plush couches that made it easy to relax after spending time exploring Fremont Street.

The king bed deserves its own mention because it was incredibly comfortable. We both slept great every night, and honestly, it was one of those hotel beds that made you want to sleep in.

The room also included:

• Large work desk

• Mini refrigerator

• Digital safe

• Steamer

• Plenty of luggage space

• Floor-to-ceiling windows with excellent views

One of My Favorite Hotel Bathrooms

The bathroom was one of my favorite parts of the room.

It features a stylish modern design with fun Las Vegas-inspired wallpaper, double sinks, large illuminated mirrors, and a spacious walk-in shower.

The shower pressure was outstanding. After long days walking around Las Vegas, it was exactly what we needed.

Having two sinks also made getting ready much easier.

Stadium Swim

Even if you're not a huge sports fan, Stadium Swim is worth experiencing.

The three-tier pool complex overlooks one of the largest outdoor sports screens you'll probably ever see. Multiple heated pools, lounge chairs, daybeds, bars, and nonstop music create a fun atmosphere throughout the day.

One thing to know before booking is that Circa has music playing almost everywhere. Around the pool, inside the casino, and throughout many of the public spaces, you'll hear music most of the day.

Personally, we loved the energy and never found it overwhelming, but if you're looking for a quiet resort experience, Circa probably isn't the best fit.

Dining at Circa

We tried several of the restaurants during our stay.

Barry's Downtown Prime

Barry's was easily our favorite meal at Circa.

The restaurant has a beautiful vintage Vegas atmosphere while still feeling upscale and modern. We ordered the ribeye and Chicken Milanese, and both were excellent.

If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want a great dinner during your stay, Barry's is definitely worth the reservation.

Saginaw's Delicatessen

We stopped by late one evening after hearing great things about their cinnamon rolls.

While the desserts were good, they didn't quite live up to the hype for us. The cinnamon roll was a little dry, although we did enjoy the brownie sundae.

It's a convenient option that's open 24 hours, but we wouldn't consider it a must-visit.

Jack Pots

Jack Pots was perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast before checking out.

Coffee, smoothies, yogurt, and breakfast sandwiches make it a convenient stop if you're heading out for the day.

The food was fine, although a bit expensive for what you receive.

Other Dining Options at Circa

Although we didn't have time to try every restaurant, Circa has several other dining options to choose from:

• 8 East – A popular Pan-Asian restaurant serving dumplings, noodles, fried rice, skewers, and other Asian-inspired small plates.

• Victory Burger & Wings Co. – Classic burgers, wings, sandwiches, fries, and beer overlooking the sportsbook, making it a favorite spot on game days.

• Project BBQ – Smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sandwiches, and other barbecue favorites served in a casual setting.

With everything from upscale dining to quick bites, you'll have plenty of choices without ever leaving the resort.

Legacy Club: Amazing Views, Disappointing Drinks

The rooftop Legacy Club offers some of the best views in Downtown Las Vegas.

The outdoor terrace is absolutely beautiful, especially at sunset.

Unfortunately, our cocktail experience didn't match the incredible view.

I ordered a margarita that was so unbalanced I couldn't drink it. After asking if it could be adjusted, it was remade but still wasn't enjoyable. I ended up exchanging it for a vodka pineapple instead.

The bartender also didn't seem particularly happy that I wasn't satisfied with the drink, which made the experience even more disappointing.

For the views alone, Legacy Club is worth visiting. For cocktails, we'd probably go elsewhere.

Other Hotel Amenities

Circa offers much more than just hotel rooms.

Some of the highlights include:

• Two floors of casino gaming

• Massive sports betting area

• Mega Bar

• Vegas Vickie

• Fitness center

• Multiple restaurants and bars

There's always something happening, making it easy to spend an entire day without leaving the property.

Restaurants Near Circa

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Circa is having so many great restaurants within walking distance on Fremont Street.

AmeriBrunch

A fantastic breakfast spot with delicious food, refreshing smoothies, and friendly service.

Pachi Pachi

A vibrant Japanese-inspired spot serving creative cocktails and standout dishes in a playful, art-filled space that's as fun to explore as it is to dine in.

Broken Yolk Cafe

A reliable breakfast and brunch spot known for generous portions, omelets, pancakes, and classic American comfort food.

Eureka!

A lively gastropub offering gourmet burgers, craft beers, and elevated American favorites in a fun atmosphere.

Things to Know Before Booking

There were only a few negatives during our stay.

Complimentary WiFi Is Slow

The included WiFi worked for basic browsing and checking email, but it was noticeably slow.

If you need faster internet for work or streaming, upgraded WiFi packages are available for an additional fee.

Late Checkout May Cost Extra

Standard checkout is at 11:00 AM.

We requested a one-hour late checkout until noon and were initially told there would be a $40 charge. After politely asking if there was any flexibility, the front desk checked with a manager and was able to waive the fee.

It never hurts to ask.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent Fremont Street location

• Beautiful modern rooms

• Extremely comfortable king bed

• Spacious bathroom with double sinks

• Friendly and helpful staff

• Fun adults-only atmosphere

• Fantastic Stadium Swim pool complex

Cons

• Loud music is everywhere, which may not appeal to everyone

• Complimentary WiFi is slow

• Legacy Club cocktails were disappointing

• On-site dining can be expensive

Final Thoughts

We genuinely loved our stay at Circa Las Vegas.

The combination of modern rooms, an unbeatable Fremont Street location, excellent service, and the lively atmosphere made it one of our favorite Downtown Las Vegas hotels.

While there were a few minor drawbacks, like the slow complimentary WiFi and disappointing drinks at Legacy Club, they weren't enough to take away from what was otherwise a fantastic experience.

Would we stay here again?

Absolutely.

If you're looking for a stylish adults-only hotel with comfortable rooms, a great pool, and easy access to everything Fremont Street has to offer, Circa is an easy recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Circa Las Vegas

• Is Circa Las Vegas adults only?

  Yes. Circa is one of the few adults-only hotels in Las Vegas. Guests must be at least 21 years old to enter the hotel, casino, and most areas of the property.

• Is Stadium Swim included with your hotel stay?

  Yes. Registered hotel guests receive complimentary access to Stadium Swim during their stay, subject to capacity and special event restrictions.

• Does Circa have free WiFi?

  Yes, complimentary WiFi is included with your stay. During our visit, we found it to be fairly slow for anything beyond basic browsing and email. Faster premium internet packages are available for an additional fee.

• Does Circa have parking?

  Yes. Circa offers parking in its Garage Mahal parking structure. Parking policies and fees can change, so it's always a good idea to check the hotel's website before your trip.

• Is Circa close to the Las Vegas Strip?

  Circa is located in Downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, about a 10 to 15-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, depending on traffic.

Solvang has always felt like one of those easy California weekend getaways that gives you a completely different atmosphere without having to travel too far. Over Memorial Day weekend, we finally visited with our dogs, and it ended up being such a cute and easy pet-friendly trip from Los Angeles.

Between the Danish-style buildings, bakeries, shops, tasting rooms, and walkable downtown, Solvang is a fun place to explore without needing a packed itinerary. That was especially nice since we were traveling with dogs and wanted the weekend to feel relaxed.

We stayed right in town, parked the car at the hotel, and didn’t move it again until we left. That alone made the trip feel so much easier.

Here’s what our pet-friendly Memorial Day weekend in Solvang was like, including where we stayed, what we did, what worked well with dogs, and a few things I would plan differently next time.

Getting to Solvang From Los Angeles

We drove to Solvang from Los Angeles, and since it was Memorial Day weekend, the drive took longer than usual. That was expected, but it was still an easy road trip overall.

Once we arrived in Solvang, the weekend immediately felt simple because we were able to park at our hotel and walk everywhere. Restaurants, bakeries, shops, tasting rooms, and cute little courtyards were all close by.

If you are visiting Solvang with dogs, I highly recommend staying somewhere central. Not having to constantly load the dogs into the car or search for parking made a huge difference.

Where We Stayed: Corque Hotel, Solvang

We stayed at the Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, and it worked really well for a dog-friendly weekend.

The location was the biggest highlight. It was close to everything we wanted to do, including restaurants, bakeries, Petersen Village Square, and the main shopping areas. The hotel also had complimentary on-site parking, which was especially nice during a busy holiday weekend.

The hotel felt very pet-friendly during our stay, and we saw other dogs around the property too.

For our visit, the hotel’s pet policy included a non-refundable pet fee, a pet weight limit, and a maximum of two pets per room. Since hotel pet policies can change, I always recommend checking directly with the hotel before booking.

Overall, I would stay here again for a pet-friendly Solvang trip. It made the weekend feel easy, comfortable, and very walkable.

Why Solvang Is Great With Dogs

Solvang ended up being a really nice town to visit with dogs because so much of the experience is outdoors.

We spent a lot of time simply walking around, looking at the Danish-style buildings, browsing cute shops, and stopping for photos. We saw dogs everywhere, which made the town feel very pet-friendly.

There were also a lot of little outdoor areas where you could pause for a few minutes, which is always helpful when traveling with pets. Petersen Village Square was especially nice because it had a cute atmosphere and places to sit.

I also loved that Solvang had public bathrooms near the public parking areas. That might sound like a small detail, but when you are walking around with dogs, it is so nice not having to find a restaurant, bakery, or shop just to use the bathroom.

Those little conveniences made the whole weekend feel much easier.

Walking Around Town

One of the best things to do in Solvang is simply walk around town.

There are so many cute storefronts, bakeries, windmills, courtyards, and photo spots. We saw a spice shop called Solvang Spice Merchant, a year-round Christmas shop, and plenty of places that made the town feel charming and fun to explore.

This is also why Solvang works well as a dog-friendly trip. You don’t have to rush from attraction to attraction. You can walk, stop, sit outside, grab a pastry, and just enjoy the town at a slower pace.

I would also recommend stopping by the visitor center when you arrive. Sometimes they have coupons you can use around town, so it is worth checking before you start shopping or eating.

The Reality of Visiting on Memorial Day Weekend

Since we visited over Memorial Day weekend, Solvang was busy.

We originally wanted to go to Brekkies for breakfast, but the line was way too long. We also considered Paula’s Pancake House, which is one of the classic Solvang breakfast spots, but that line was also really long.

Another restaurant I really wanted to try was Peasants Feast. I had my eye on it before the trip, but big surprise, the line was super long there too.

That was probably the biggest lesson from this trip. If you are visiting Solvang on a holiday weekend and there are specific restaurants you really want to try, go early or be ready to wait.

For us, the better option was to stay flexible.

Our Favorite Backup Plan: Danish Pastries Outside

Instead of waiting in long breakfast lines, we grabbed pastries, and honestly, that ended up being such a nice Solvang experience.

We tried Mortensen’s Danish Bakery at Petersen Village Square and Olsen’s Danish Bakery. Mortensen’s had a nice area to sit down, which made it a good option with dogs. Olsen’s had the wider and better pastry selection, so if you want more choices, I would put Olsen’s higher on the list.

Grabbing pastries and then going to a park or Petersen Village Square to sit outside is such a nice option when you are traveling with dogs. You still get the bakery experience Solvang is known for, but you don’t have to deal with a long restaurant wait.

It also feels more relaxed, which is exactly what we wanted for this trip.

Where We Ate During the Weekend

We kept meals pretty simple during this trip.

For our first dinner, we ate at Craft House at Corque, which is located at the hotel. This was very convenient after driving in from Los Angeles, and it was nice not having to go far after checking in.

For lunch, we ate at Panino’s Sandwiches, which was a great casual option while walking around town. It was easy, convenient, and not too heavy.

Another night, we had dinner at Cecco Ristorante, an Italian restaurant with pizza and pasta. It was a short walk from the hotel and worked well for a casual sit-down dinner.

There were several other pet-friendly restaurants I had saved, including:

• Peasants Deli

• Cafe Dolce

• Peasants Feast

• Copenhagen Sausage Garden

• The Gathering Table

• Whiskey ’N Rye

• Solvang Brewing Company

• Brekkies

• Paula’s Pancake House

We didn’t make it to all of them, and some were too crowded during the holiday weekend, but it was nice to have options saved in case we needed a backup.

As always, I recommend checking current hours and pet policies before going because patio rules can change.

Wine Tasting With Dogs in Solvang

Wine tasting is one of the most popular things to do in Solvang, and many tasting rooms are pet-friendly.

I had planned to check one out during this trip, but due to certain circumstances, we had to scratch that plan. Even though we didn’t end up wine tasting this time, I would still keep it on the itinerary for a dog-friendly Solvang weekend.

One tasting room I personally recommend is Sanger Family of Wines. I visited in 2019 with Crystal when they first opened their doors, and we really enjoyed the generous tasting. It is also right next to Petersen Village Square, so it is very convenient if you are already walking around town.

A few dog-friendly wine tasting options I had saved were:

• Clean Slate Wine Bar

• Toccata Tasting Room

• Lucas & Lewellen

• The Good Life Cellars

• Casa Cassara Winery

• Vega Vineyard and Farm in nearby Buellton.

Vega Vineyard and Farm is not in downtown Solvang, so you would need to drive there, but it looked like a fun option because it has wine tasting, food, and farm animals.

What Made This Trip Easy With Dogs

The easiest part of this trip was how walkable everything was.

Once we parked at the hotel, we could walk to almost everything. That made the weekend feel low-stress, especially with dogs. We didn’t have to worry about loading them into the car, finding another parking spot, or planning the day around driving.

The public bathrooms near the public parking areas were another detail I really appreciated. When you are out walking with dogs, it is so helpful to have convenient bathrooms nearby instead of needing to rely on a business.

The town also had plenty of outdoor areas, patios, and places to pause, which made it feel more comfortable with pets.

Tips for Visiting Solvang With Dogs

Stay in town if you can. Being able to walk everywhere made the trip much easier.

Check your hotel’s pet policy before booking. Even pet-friendly hotels can have pet fees, weight limits, and limits on the number of pets allowed per room.

Expect crowds if you visit on a holiday weekend. Popular breakfast spots and restaurants can have long lines, so go early or have a backup plan.

Do not underestimate the bakeries. If restaurant lines are too long, grabbing Danish pastries and eating outside can be a really nice option with dogs.

Look for public parking areas and public bathrooms. This made walking around town much more convenient.

Keep your itinerary flexible. Solvang is a great place to wander, and some of the best parts of our weekend were the unplanned moments.

Final Thoughts

Solvang ended up being a really easy and charming pet-friendly weekend trip from Los Angeles.

The town was walkable, our hotel was dog-friendly, and there were plenty of bakeries, shops, restaurants, tasting rooms, and outdoor areas nearby. Even though we didn’t get to do everything I had planned, the trip still felt relaxed and fun.

If you are looking for a dog-friendly California weekend getaway that feels cute, easy, and different from home, Solvang is a great option.

I would just keep your plans flexible, especially if you are visiting during a holiday weekend. Sometimes the best plan is grabbing pastries, finding a place to sit outside, and enjoying the town with your dogs.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Solvang has been on my list for a return visit for years. The last time I visited was about six years ago with Crystal during Thanksgiving weekend, but we only came for the day and did not stay overnight. I remember thinking Solvang was such a cute and fun place, and I had always heard how dog-friendly it was.

So for Memorial Day weekend, I finally came back to Solvang, but this time with my husband and our two dogs. Since we were traveling with the pups, I wanted to stay somewhere comfortable, convenient, and dog-friendly, so we booked a stay at Corque Hotel.

I booked our stay using Marriott Bonvoy points, and because of the way the points availability worked out, I had to split the reservation into two different room types. We stayed in a two queen room on the first floor for the first two nights, then moved into a king room with a balcony and pool view for the final night.

Even though switching rooms was a little inconvenient, it ended up giving me a good look at two different room experiences at the hotel.

Booking Our Stay With Marriott Bonvoy Points

When I booked Corque Hotel with Marriott Bonvoy points, I was only able to book the first room for two nights, even though I wanted to stay for three nights total. To make the points work for the full stay, I had to book two separate rooms.

Our first room had two queen beds and was located on the first floor. This was very convenient with the dogs because we were next to an exit door, which made it easy to take them out early in the morning, late at night, or in the middle of the night.

The downside was that the room felt very dark and was somewhat noisy, since we could clearly hear the exit door opening and closing. The room barely had any natural light coming in, so we ended up turning on every lamp and light fixture even during the daytime. I personally prefer hotel rooms that feel brighter and more open, especially when we are staying somewhere for more than one night.

For our final night, we moved into a king room with a balcony overlooking the pool, and the difference was immediately noticeable. This room felt much brighter, airier, and more spacious than the other room, with more natural light and a more open layout. It also included a comfortable sofa bed, and the front desk confirmed that this was an upgrade compared to the two-queen bedroom.

Switching Rooms During Our Stay

I originally asked if we could stay in the two queen room because packing everything up, checking out, and checking back in later is not ideal, especially when traveling with dogs.

I also still had food in the refrigerator that needed to stay cold, so I was a little worried about what to do with everything during the room change.

Thankfully, the hotel staff made the process really easy. They held all of our luggage, kept our food cold in their refrigerator, and called me when the new room was ready. The room was ready well before the standard check-in time, and by the time we arrived, our luggage had already been brought upstairs and our food had been placed back in the fridge.

The service was one of the best parts of the stay. Everyone we interacted with was friendly, helpful, and very welcoming to our dogs.

Parking and Location

Another thing I really appreciated about Corque Hotel was the parking. Parking was free and plentiful, which made arriving at the hotel stress-free.

Once we parked the car, we did not move it again until we checked out. The hotel is right in the heart of Solvang, so everything was within walking distance for us.

Since we were traveling with our two dogs, this made the stay so much easier. We could walk to restaurants, wine tastings, and shops around town without constantly having to get in and out of the car.

Room Tour: King Room With Balcony

The room had a desk area, a large sofa bed, a coffee table, a balcony, a TV console, a mini fridge, a safe, and plenty of charging outlets throughout the room.

Desk Area and Microwave Request

One thing to know is that the room does not normally come with a microwave. I requested one because we had leftovers from dinner that I wanted to heat up, and they were able to bring one to the room free of charge.

The desk area also had a Keurig machine with coffee and green tea, which I appreciated since not everyone drinks coffee. There were also two complimentary bottles of water waiting for us when we arrived.

I also liked that there were plenty of outlets and USB charging ports near the desk and on both sides of the bed. That always makes a hotel room so much easier to use, especially when you are charging phones, camera batteries, and other travel devices.

Bed and Sleeping Comfort

The king mattress in the room wasn’t the most comfortable. I actually prefer my own bed’s mattress to theirs. Unfortunately, it felt quite firm, but not in a pleasantly supportive way.

That said, I did like the look of the room. The headboard and wallpaper gave the room a soft, cloud-like feel, and the overall design was really nice.

Sofa Bed and Traveling With Dogs

The king room also had a large sofa that converts into a bed, which ended up being useful for us. When we travel with our dogs, I usually prefer booking two queen beds because our dogs are spoiled and like to sleep with us.

With one king bed, it can get a little crowded for two people and two dogs. Having the sofa bed gave us an extra sleeping option, which made the room much more comfortable.

Balcony and Pool View

One of the best features of this room was the balcony. It overlooked the pool and made the room feel much brighter than the first-floor room.

The only thing I was cautious about was letting the dogs out on the balcony. The balcony’s bar spacing was fairly wide, so a small dog could easily squeeze through. It’s definitely something to be mindful of and to supervise closely while they’re out there. Luckily my pups are medium size, so I didn’t have to worry too much, but I still kept an eye on them whenever they went outside.

So while the balcony was beautiful and a really nice feature, it is something to keep in mind if you are staying here with dogs.

Room Amenities

The room had a large TV, a TV console, and a mini fridge. The fridge was clean, spacious, and big enough for the leftover food we had brought back from dinner.

There was also a digital safe tucked behind a barn-style cabinet door, along with an extra cozy blanket. Wine glasses and regular drinking glasses sat neatly together and additional charging ports were conveniently arranged on top of the console table.

I really appreciated the luggage rack in this room because the first room did not have one. I do not like putting my suitcase directly on the floor, so having a luggage rack is always a plus.

There was also a thermostat that worked well and was easy to control.

Spacious Hallway and Closet

The hallway area in the room was nice and spacious, which was helpful with the dogs. When we are putting on leashes and getting ready to go outside, having extra space near the entry makes a big difference.

There was also a large mirror near the bathroom. I do think the mirror placement in this particular room felt slightly off-center compared to the first room, where it was centered better, but it was still useful.

Inside the closet, there were hangers, an iron, an ironing board, and two plush bathrobes.

My Favorite Part of the Room: The Bathroom

The bathroom was probably my favorite part of the room. Not necessarily because of the color, but because of the layout.

There were two sinks on opposite sides of the bathroom, which was incredibly convenient. I loved that my husband and I each had our own space to get ready, with room to spread out and not rush. This meant our toiletries were on separate counters, never bumping into each other or getting mixed up.

Each side had an illuminated mirror, and the lighting made a huge difference. There was also a magnifying mirror, which I always appreciate in hotel bathrooms.

The bathroom had both bar soap and liquid soap, and I especially liked that they provided liquid hand soap. I personally do not like using bar soap to wash my hands when I am wearing rings because the soap gets stuck in between them.

They also provided lotion, Q-tips, cotton balls, a blow dryer, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. The shower had medium water pressure, and everything worked well. I also liked the scent of the shampoo and conditioner.

Another thing I loved was the open shelf storage in the bathroom. I used it for my extra bags and the dogs’ bag, and it made everything easy to access. I prefer open storage over putting things inside a closet or drawer because I am more likely to forget items if they are tucked away.

Is Corque Hotel Dog-Friendly?

Yes, Corque Hotel was VERY dog-friendly during our stay. The staff were genuinely warm and welcoming to our dogs, and having a convenient first-floor room made taking them outside quick and easy. While I was in the lobby taking photos, one of the staff members, Leo, was incredibly helpful and even offered to take a photo of me and Zooey. He went above and beyond by taking shots both vertically and horizontally without me even asking, which I really appreciated. Thanks, Leo!!

Solvang itself was also incredibly dog-friendly. We were able to bring our dogs with us almost everywhere we went, including wine tastings and restaurants with dog-friendly areas.

It felt like everyone in Solvang loved dogs, which made the trip so much more enjoyable. If you are looking for a dog-friendly weekend getaway in California, Solvang is a great option.

Dinner and Breakfast at Craft House at Corque

There is a restaurant right next door called Craft House at Corque, which is part of the hotel, so it shares the same relaxed vibe and inviting ambiance.

We had dinner there on our first night, and it ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip. I ordered the herb crusted prime rib, which they only serve on the weekends, and my husband ordered the spicy pig pizza. Both dishes were delicious.

I did initially have to send my prime rib back because it was not cooked quite enough for my preference, but once that was fixed, I really enjoyed it. Other than that small issue, dinner was excellent and the overall experience was great.

We enjoyed dinner so much that we decided to go back for breakfast the next morning, but unfortunately, breakfast was a completely different experience.

Breakfast was a huge disappointment. It was difficult to track down our server, our entrees took over thirty minutes to prepare, my scrambled eggs arrived dry and cold, and my order was wrong when it first came out. When I finally received the corrected plate with the English muffin, that too was cold, lacked any crunch, and was soggy. I couldn’t tell whether the greasiness came from oil or butter, but either way it left a heavy, unappetizing film.

I was honestly frustrated that we had to pay for such a disappointing meal and service, especially after having such a good dinner the night before. I would have much rather had a sausage egg McMuffin from McDonald’s. It would have been far cheaper and, frankly, tastier.

That said, I do think we may have just gotten unlucky with breakfast because dinner was awesome. If we stayed at Corque Hotel again, I would definitely consider going back to Craft House for dinner, but I would skip breakfast.

What We Loved About Corque Hotel

We really liked the service at Corque Hotel. The staff was friendly, attentive, and made our room change as smooth as possible.

The location was also a big plus. Parking was free and easy, and once we parked, we did not need to move the car again until we left. Corque Hotel is right in the heart of Solvang, so we were able to walk everywhere.

I also loved the bright king room with the balcony and pool view. Compared to the darker first-floor room, it felt much more open and comfortable.

The bathroom layout was another major highlight. Having two separate sink areas made getting ready so much easier, and the storage was practical for both our things and the dogs’ items.

We also really enjoyed dinner at Craft House at Corque. My herb crusted prime rib and my husband’s spicy pig pizza were both delicious, and it was so convenient to have a good dinner option right next to the hotel.

What We Did Not Love

The biggest downside was the bed comfort in the first room. The mattress felt too firm for us, and we did not sleep very well the first night.

The first-floor room was also very dark, which made it feel less inviting. While it was convenient for the dogs, I much preferred the brighter upstairs room.

Breakfast at Craft House at Corque was very disappointing. Dinner the night before was great, but breakfast had slow service, my order was initially wrong, and the food arrived cold.

Final Thoughts: Would I Stay at Corque Hotel Again?

Overall, we had a really nice stay at Corque Hotel in Solvang. The service was excellent, the hotel was very dog-friendly, and our second room was bright, spacious, and comfortable.

The first room was not my favorite because it was dark, but the location on the first floor was very convenient with dogs. The king room with the balcony felt like a much better fit for us, even though I usually prefer two queen beds when traveling with the pups.

If you are planning a trip to Solvang and want a dog-friendly hotel close to everything, Corque Hotel is a great option to consider. Solvang is such a cute Danish-style town, and it is especially nice if you are traveling with dogs since so many places are welcoming to them.

We had a great Memorial Day weekend here, and I would definitely consider staying at Corque Hotel again, especially if we could book one of the brighter rooms.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

If you're planning a trip to Japan and wondering what's actually worth bringing home, here's my honest review after living with these purchases for more than a year.

Every year I visit Japan because my family still lives there. And every year, I somehow come home with another suitcase full of beauty products, travel accessories, kitchen gadgets, snacks, and plenty of cute impulse purchases.

Now that it's been over a year, I thought it would be fun to look back and see which purchases actually became part of my daily routine and which ones have been sitting untouched in a drawer ever since.

Some of these items completely surprised me, while others taught me that just because something is adorable doesn't mean I'll actually use it.

Japan Purchases I Still Use After One Year

Shin Biofermin S Plus Probiotic

The most useful thing I bought wasn't a beauty product or a snack.

It was actually Shin Biofermin S Plus, a probiotic my sister recommended after hearing me complain about my stomach yet again.

I have a sensitive stomach, especially when I'm traveling, and she told me this is what her doctor recommends whenever she has digestive issues. Since then, I've kept a bottle at home and use it whenever my stomach needs a little extra help.

There are countless probiotics available in the United States, but this one works well for me. Now it's become one of the first things I buy every time I return to Japan.

Japanese Beauty Products

Heroine Make Mascara Remover

This has completely changed how I remove waterproof mascara.

Before finding this product, I used makeup remover on a cotton pad and spent several minutes gently rubbing my eyes, followed by Q-tips to remove whatever mascara was left behind.

This mascara remover looks like a tube of mascara. You simply brush it onto your lashes, let it sit briefly, then wipe everything away with a cotton pad.

Most of my mascara comes off in one swipe, making my nighttime routine much easier. Since I wear waterproof mascara almost every time I wear makeup, this has become a permanent part of my beauty routine.

&honey Hair Mascara

I discovered this thanks to my younger sister while we were traveling together in Japan.

At first I thought she was putting mascara on her hair.

Turns out that's exactly what it looks like (different ingredients obviously), but it's actually designed to smooth flyaways and baby hairs.

Now I keep one in my purse all the time. Whenever I pull my hair into a ponytail, I use it to tame those little hairs that never seem to cooperate.

I also use it on my eyebrows to keep them brushed into place, even though that's not its intended purpose.

There are dozens of versions at Japanese drugstores, with different scents and formulas.

Kitchen Products Worth Bringing Home

Japanese Cabbage Slicer

If you've eaten tonkatsu in Japan, you've probably noticed how incredibly thin and crisp the shredded cabbage is. I've always wanted to recreate that texture at home.

Instead of buying a bulky electric slicer, I found this simple cabbage slicer while shopping in Japan. It produces incredibly thin slices in just a few seconds.

Now I eat cabbage much more often because I can finally make it the way I enjoy it most: thin, crisp, and topped with a little fresh lemon juice.

This is easily one of my favorite kitchen purchases from Japan.

Roasted Salt (Yaki Shio)

This was one of those random grocery store purchases that turned out to be a winner.

Roasted salt has a deeper, richer flavor than regular table salt.

I especially love using it on rice balls, grilled fish, and vegetables.

You don't need very much, but somehow it adds so much more flavor than ordinary salt.

I'll definitely be bringing home several bags the next time I'm in Japan.

Cute Things That Turned Out to Be Surprisingly Useful

Decorative Tin Cans

Japan has some of the cutest snack tins and most of the time I don't even care what's inside the tin. I just want the container.

I have purchased several over the years, and my recent favorite tin finds were from Ladurée. They released special edition tins made especially for Japan, so of course the designs drew me in.

I now use one to store my watches, while another holds small miscellaneous items around the house.

They're functional, beautifully designed, and make organizing a little more fun.

Travel Accessories I Use Constantly

MUJI Travel Bottles

I've tried countless travel bottles over the years. Most leaked, cracked, or were impossible to squeeze.

MUJI's bottles have held up better than anything else I've owned. They're lightweight, durable, inexpensive, and don't leak. They're now the only travel bottles I pack.

Afternoon Tea Jewelry Case

This tiny jewelry case lives inside my purse.

Whenever I need to remove a ring or earrings, I have a safe place to store them instead of tossing them into my bag or pocket.

It's one of those purchases that isn't exciting, but I end up using it constantly.

Compact UV & Rain Umbrella

One of my favorite travel purchases is a lightweight umbrella I found at Loft.

It works as both a rain umbrella and a sun umbrella, folds down incredibly small, and weighs almost nothing. I've carried it throughout Japan, and now it stays in my purse here at home too.

It's one of those items that doesn't take up much space, but I'm always glad I packed it.

Mini Massage Gun

After walking 20,000 to 30,000 steps sightseeing around Japan, my feet are usually exhausted.

This mini massage gun has become one of my favorite travel companions. It's rechargeable, compact enough to fit inside my luggage, and provides just the right amount of pressure without feeling overwhelming. I also use it at home on my shoulders after long days at my computer.

Portable Straightening Iron

I originally bought this for travel touch-ups. Instead, I ended up using it almost every day at home.

It's the perfect size for styling my bangs, heats up quickly, and doesn't get nearly as hot as my full-size flat iron. The fact that it's rechargeable makes it even more convenient.

Afternoon Tea Insulated Mug

Another Afternoon Tea purchase that gets daily use is my insulated mug. Despite being marketed more for tea, I use it for both coffee and tea every morning.

It keeps drinks hot for longer, has handy measurement markings inside, and I absolutely love the lid that comes with it. The spout is perfectly shaped, making drinking from it comfortable and secure so I never have an accidental spill.

It has quickly become my favorite mug in the whole house.

Japanese Accessories I Love

One thing I do enjoy buying in Japan is enamel pins. They're easy to pack, inexpensive, and make great souvenirs.

I started collecting enamel pins a few years ago after a cross-country road trip to Magnolia Market. Not too long later I bought my second pin in London which was a special edition Corgi pin to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. When we visited Osaka, I couldn’t resist picking up a Kiki's Delivery Service pin.

I like to wear a different pin on each of my winter coats. It’s become an unexpected conversation starter, and it’s the first time I’ve actually started to collect a specific type of souvenir on my travels.

Japan Purchases I Regret Buying

Not everything was a success. Some purchases looked like a great idea while I was shopping but haven't been used once since I got home.

Handheld Fan

I was convinced I'd use this constantly during the summer. I've taken it on trips. I've packed it in my purse. And somehow I never actually reach for it.

Even after more than a year, it still feels basically new. I think we’re spoiled by air conditioning everywhere in the States, so that’s probably a big reason I haven’t had a chance to use it yet.

Cute Keychains and Small Accessories

This is where Japan gets me every single trip.

I'll see an adorable Studio Ghibli keychain or a Sanrio accessory and immediately convince myself I'll find the perfect place for it. Most of them end up sitting in a drawer.

The same goes for little accessories like bottle clips or novelty organizers. They're inexpensive, well-made, and incredibly cute, but they rarely become part of my everyday life.

My Biggest Shopping Lesson After a Year

Looking back, the purchases that were truly worth buying all had one thing in common.

They solved a problem.

Whether it was a probiotic that helped my sensitive stomach, a mascara remover that made my nighttime routine easier, travel bottles that never leak, or a compact umbrella that always fits in my bag, these items naturally became part of my everyday life.

The things I regret buying were mostly impulse purchases. They were inexpensive, cute, and easy to justify in the moment, but once I got home, I realized I didn't really have a use for them.

That's probably the biggest lesson I've learned from shopping in Japan.

Before buying something, I now try to ask myself:

• Will I actually use this?

• Where will I store it?

• Will it become part of my routine?

• Or am I simply buying it because it's adorable?

Knowing me, I'll probably still come home with a few cute impulse purchases every trip. After all, that's part of the fun of shopping in Japan. But hopefully, each year I'll get a little better at separating the things I'll truly use from the things that will simply collect dust.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

On our latest trip to Tokyo, we decided to stay in a different neighborhood and booked a room at MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka. We had already stayed at a MIMARU property in Osaka before and liked the concept, so we were curious to see how the Akasaka location would compare.

MIMARU hotels are known for their larger rooms, apartment-style layouts, and family-friendly setup. Since we were traveling with three people, we wanted a hotel room that gave us more space than the typical compact Tokyo hotel room. We also wanted to explore Akasaka, which has a more relaxed, local feel compared to areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Overall, we enjoyed our stay, but there were definitely a few things we would do differently next time. Here is our honest review of MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka, including the room, location, amenities, and whether we would stay here again.

Why We Chose MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka

The biggest reason we chose MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka was the room size. Tokyo hotel rooms can be very small, especially if you are traveling with more than two people. MIMARU is designed more for families and groups, so their rooms usually feel more spacious and practical.

We also liked that this property was in Akasaka. We have stayed in other Tokyo neighborhoods before, including busier areas like Ginza and Shinjuku, but this time we wanted to experience a slightly quieter side of Tokyo.

Akasaka has more of a business district feel, but it still has plenty of restaurants, cafes, convenience stores, and subway access. It felt less touristy than some of the more famous Tokyo neighborhoods, which made it a nice change of pace.

The Room We Booked

For this stay, we booked the Japanese-style room with a tatami area. There was also a regular apartment-style room available, but we thought the Japanese-style room would be more fun and maybe more comfortable since it came with futon bedding instead of sofa beds.

The room was about 430 square feet, which is very spacious for Tokyo. It had two twin beds pushed together on one side, a tatami room in the middle, a small kitchen, a separate toilet room, and a Japanese-style shower and bath area.

At first glance, the layout looked great for a group of three. There was enough room for us to spread out, do our makeup, and relax after being out all day. But after staying in the room, we realized the tatami layout had a few drawbacks.

The Tatami Room: Nice Idea, But We Would Skip It Next Time

We loved the idea of having a tatami room, especially since we grew up in Japan and are familiar with traditional tatami spaces. However, this tatami area did not feel as authentic or comfortable as we expected.

The flooring felt very hard and did not have the soft, natural feel we usually associate with tatami. It also did not have that fresh tatami scent, which made it feel less traditional.

The futon bedding was stored in the closet area, and each night we had to take it out, move the coffee table, and set up the sleeping area ourselves. That is not a huge deal if you are used to it, but it does require a little extra effort.

The tatami area also took up a lot of valuable room space. Because of the layout, we did not have as much space for luggage as we expected. Our suitcases had to stay on the floor near the beds, which made it a little tricky to walk around at night or early in the morning.

If we stayed here again, we would probably book the regular apartment-style room instead of the tatami room.

The Beds and Comfort Level

The two twin beds were pushed together, so they looked almost like one larger bed, but they were still two separate mattresses.

The beds were not the most comfortable. The mattresses were very firm with almost no bounce, and the pillows were just okay. After walking around Tokyo all day, we still slept, but this was not one of those hotel beds we looked forward to getting into at night.

If you like a firm mattress, you might be fine. But if you have back issues or prefer a softer bed, this is something to keep in mind.

The twin beds were also on the smaller side, which is common in Japan. One of us is 5’9” and fit comfortably lengthwise, but someone around six feet tall might feel like the bed is too short or narrow.

What We Liked About the Room

One thing we really appreciated was how convenient the room was for charging devices and controlling the lights. There were outlets and USB ports by the bed, and the light switches were easy to reach from the sleeping area.

The room also had a full-length mirror, which we used for outfit checks, and there was an outlet nearby that made it easy to do hair. There was also an air purifier and humidifier, which was especially nice during the colder months.

The windows had shoji-style sliding panels and blinds, so we were able to make the room very dark at night.

The Kitchen Was Very Convenient

The small kitchen is one of the best features of MIMARU hotels, especially for families or longer stays.

Our room had an induction stove, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, kettle, plates, bowls, mugs, silverware, chopsticks, cooking utensils, pots, pans, and even knives. There was also a child lock for the drawer with knives, which was a thoughtful safety feature for families traveling with younger kids.

We did not cook full meals during our stay, but it was still helpful to have the refrigerator, kettle, dishes, and extra space. Our sister used the kettle for tea in the morning and evening, and there were complimentary tea bags available downstairs in the lobby.

There were also convenience stores nearby, including a 7-Eleven and Lawson, so it would be easy to grab food and eat in the room if you did not want to go out for every meal.

The Bathroom Setup

The bathroom setup was very typical for Japan, with the toilet separate from the sink and shower area. We always appreciate this layout when traveling with multiple people because it makes getting ready easier.

The toilet room featured a modern Japanese toilet with built-in bidet functions. The sink area was on the smaller side, offering limited counter space for our toiletries and everyday items, and towels were replenished daily. This is exactly where those hanging toiletry bags prove so handy.

The shower and bath area was Japanese-style, which means you shower first and then use the bathtub for soaking. The bathtub was deep, which made it nice for relaxing at the end of the day.

The shower pressure and water temperature were good, but the shower head was a little annoying because it was hard to adjust and did not stay in place easily. It kept turning in a direction we did not want, which made washing hair more frustrating than it should have been.

The shampoo, conditioner, and body wash were provided, but they were not our favorite hotel products. They worked fine, but they did not feel especially high quality.

A Few Things Felt Lower Quality

Even though the room was spacious and well-designed, some of the smaller details felt lower quality than expected.

The trash cans were one example. The main trash can in the kitchen area felt flimsy and had to be opened by hand. The bathroom trash can was also extremely small, which was inconvenient for three people sharing a room.

The tatami flooring also felt like a lower-quality version of what we were expecting. The overall design of the room looked nice, but some of the materials and finishes did not feel as nice as the design made them appear.

None of these things ruined our stay, but they were noticeable, especially since this hotel is not exactly a budget hotel.

Check-In and Staff

Check-in was one of the best parts of our stay. We arrived around 12:30 p.m., and check-in was officially at 3:00 p.m. In Japan, hotels are usually very strict about check-in times, so we were fully expecting to leave our luggage and come back later.

To our surprise, our room was already ready, and they let us check in early without us even asking. Since it was raining that day, this was such a nice surprise.

The staff also spoke English very well, which could be a big plus for travelers who are worried about the language barrier. We speak Japanese, so it is not something we personally need, but we noticed that the English level here was much stronger than at many other hotels we have stayed at in Japan.

The staff were also very helpful with recommendations. There was a cute board in the lobby with staff picks for places to eat and things to do nearby. Each staff member had a little illustrated character, which made it feel personal and fun. There was also a QR code and a recommendation book with cafes, restaurants, and sightseeing ideas.

One of their breakfast recommendations ended up being really helpful because it can be hard to find dine-in cafes open early in Japan. They suggested a nearby coffee shop that opened around 6:30 a.m., and we ended up going there twice.

Amenities and Laundry

Amenities are not placed in the room automatically. Instead, you can grab what you need from the lobby area or request items at check-in.

They had things like pajamas, Q-tips, lotion, face wash, and tea bags available. We actually like this system because you only take what you need.

There is also a laundry room, which we utilized. The washer was ¥400, and detergent was automatically dispensed by the machine, so we did not have to buy any separately.

We did not use the dryer because we prefer to hang dry certain clothes. After washing, we brought everything back to the room and hung it in the bathroom, where there was a long rod in the shower area. Everything dried within about a day.

Rooftop Terrace

The hotel advertises its rooftop terrace, but in reality this turned out to be the most underwhelming part of our stay.

We went up to check it out, but there was not much to see. There were only a couple of basic outdoor furniture pieces, and the space was not decorated in a way that made us want to hang out there.

The view was okay, but the railings blocked a lot of the photo potential. It was fine for a quick look, but we would not choose this hotel for the rooftop terrace.

Luggage Delivery Service

One of the most convenient services at this hotel was luggage delivery. The hotel can help ship your luggage to your next destination, whether that is another hotel, a residence, or the airport.

This is especially helpful if you are traveling with larger suitcases and do not want to deal with carrying them through train stations.

You do need to plan ahead, especially if you want same-day delivery. The hotel seemed to advertise same-day service mostly for other hotels or airports. For residential addresses, it may take longer, but the staff explained everything clearly.

Private Airport Shuttle Option

We also noticed that the hotel offered a private airport shuttle service for groups. There were options for Haneda and Narita, with different pricing depending on the number of passengers.

For families or groups with a lot of luggage, this could be worth looking into. It is not included in the room rate, but the prices looked reasonable when split between several people.

This is another example of how MIMARU really seems to cater to families and groups.

The Location in Akasaka

The location was one of the highlights of our stay.

Akasaka has a calmer feel, but it still has a lot going on. There are tons of restaurants, cafes, izakayas, and convenience stores nearby. We never felt like we had to go far to find something to eat.

The subway station was also nearby, which made it easy to get around Tokyo.

Akasaka is a business district, so you will see a lot of office workers, especially during the morning and evening commute. But we liked that. It made the area feel more local and less touristy.

If you are a Harry Potter fan, Akasaka is also a fun place to stay because the nearby station area has a whole Harry Potter theme. There is a Harry Potter store, cafe, theater area, and themed decor around the station. We are not huge Harry Potter fans, but it was still fun to see.

What we liked most was that Akasaka felt more relaxed. We were not constantly fighting through crowds, and we did not see the same level of tourist congestion that you get in popular Tokyo destinations.

Who This Hotel Is Best For

MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka is a good choice if you are traveling with:

• Families with kids

• Groups of three or more

• Travelers who want more space

• People who want a kitchen in the room

• Visitors who prefer a quieter Tokyo neighborhood

• Travelers who want strong English-speaking support from hotel staff

Would We Stay at MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka Again?

Overall, we had a good stay at MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka. The staff were wonderful, the location was convenient, and the room had a lot of practical features for a group.

That said, we would not book the tatami room again. The idea was nice, but the tatami area did not feel as authentic or comfortable as we hoped, and it took up space that could have been used more efficiently.

Next time, we would choose the regular apartment-style room instead.

We would consider staying at this hotel again if we were traveling with a group or family and wanted to stay in Akasaka. It is not a luxury hotel, and a few details felt lower quality, but the space, service, and location made it a solid option for Tokyo.

If you are looking for a spacious hotel room in a calmer Tokyo neighborhood, MIMARU Tokyo Akasaka is worth considering, especially if you are traveling with more than two people.

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I usually travel with my Lo & Sons Melrose backpack as my carry-on personal item, and I still love it because it is practical, comfortable, and easy to use on travel days.

But for my next trip, I am planning to switch things up and try the new Lo & Sons Sherborn instead.

Lo & Sons gifted me three Sherborn bags to review: the regular Sherborn personal item size in both black and green, and the Sherborn Large in black. While I will compare both sizes in this review, I mainly want to focus on the regular Sherborn because that is the size I would personally use as my carry-on personal item.

What immediately stood out to me is that the Sherborn feels more elevated than a backpack. My Melrose backpack is still one of my favorite travel bags, but it has a more casual look. The Sherborn feels more polished, which I like for trips where I want something that still functions well at the airport but looks a little more put together once I arrive.

This review is based on my first impressions, a packing test, and how I think the Sherborn would work as a personal item bag for travel.

What Is the Lo & Sons Sherborn?

The Lo & Sons Sherborn is an elevated nylon weekender bag designed with a more polished, minimalist look than a standard duffel.

It is made with premium textured nylon and has gold hardware, a camel interior, a hidden bottom compartment, a dedicated laptop pocket, interior organization, a key leash, D-rings, and a trolley sleeve.

The regular Sherborn is considered the personal item size, while the Sherborn large is considered the carry-on size.

For me, the regular Sherborn is the more interesting size because I am always looking for a good personal item bag that can fit under the airplane seat but still look nice enough to carry around once I get to my destination.

Lo & Sons Sherborn Size and Dimensions

Just looking at the two sizes side by side, there is a noticeable difference. The regular Sherborn feels much more manageable as a personal item bag, while the Large feels more like a true weekender or carry-on companion. I don’t think I would use the large one as my carry-on bag, since I already use my Quince Carryon suitcase for that purpose.

The regular Sherborn personal item dimensions are: 18.75” L x 8.5” W x 11” H

The Sherborn Large dimensions are: 21.25” L x 10.25” W x 12.5” H

Why I Wanted to Try the Sherborn as My Personal Item Bag

For most of my trips, I use the Lo & Sons Melrose backpack as my personal item. It is easy to carry, has fantastic organization, and works really well for airport travel.

But sometimes I want a bag that looks a little less casual.

That is where the Sherborn caught my attention. It still has practical travel features, but the overall look feels more elevated. I could see myself using it for a flight and then still feeling comfortable carrying it into a hotel, café, restaurant, or city setting.

A backpack is great when I want to be completely hands-free, but the Sherborn feels more polished. It has more of a weekender meets personal item look, which makes it feel a little more versatile for certain trips and outfits.

The Hidden Bottom Compartment

The hidden bottom compartment is the feature I like most about this bag. Because it’s tucked away, the bag looks less like a travel-specific piece, which gives it a sleeker, more versatile appearance that I really appreciate.

It is designed as a separate space for shoes or other items you want to keep away from the main compartment. I would probably use it for shoes, dirty laundry, a toiletry bag, or anything bulky that I do not want mixed in with my stuff in the main compartment.

What makes it nice is that the compartment is seamless and hidden from the outside. It does not make the bag look overly sporty or bulky, which is part of why the Sherborn feels more elevated than some other travel bags with shoe compartments.

For reference, I am a size 8, and the regular Sherborn comfortably holds one pair of my shoes while the large Sherborn can accommodate two pairs of my footwear.

The main thing to remember is that when you fill the bottom compartment, it will naturally take up some space from the main interior. That is not a dealbreaker for me, but it is something to keep in mind when packing.

Laptop Pocket and Interior Organization

One of the reasons I think the regular Sherborn works well as a personal item bag is that it has a dedicated laptop pocket.

The Sherborn features a dedicated laptop pocket that comfortably fits a 15-inch laptop, plus a handy key leash, numerous interior compartments for organization, and exterior pockets roomy enough to hold a drink bottle. This attention to practical details is something Lo & Sons consistently does well across their bag designs. They add a generous assortment of zippered and mesh compartments to keep belongings neatly separated and highly organized.

For a personal item bag, this type of organization really matters. I usually need room for my laptop, wallet, passport, some snacks, and a day’s worth of clothes just in case my checked bag is lost, delayed, or rerouted.

Trolley Sleeve

The trolley sleeve is another feature I always look for in a personal item bag.

Since the Sherborn is a shoulder bag rather than a backpack, I would not want to carry it on my shoulder through the airport the entire time, especially once it is fully packed. Being able to slide it over the handle of my suitcase makes it much more practical.

This is where the Sherborn can still work well for airport travel, even though it is not hands-free like my Melrose backpack.

Black vs. Green Sherborn

I have the regular Sherborn in both black and green, and both colors are beautiful in different ways.

The black feels classic, polished, and easy to pair with everything. If you want the most timeless option, black is probably the safest choice.

The green feels a little more unique while still being neutral. I also think the texture of the nylon shows more on the green, especially in photos and videos.

Both colors have gold hardware, which helps give the bag a more elevated look. I usually gravitate toward black travel bags because they are easy to match, but the green is a really pretty option if you want something a little different.

What Fits in the Lo & Sons Sherborn Personal Item Size?

For my packing test, I packed the regular Sherborn the way I would use it as a carry-on personal item for a flight.

Here is what I would put inside:

• Laptop

• Small toiletry pouch

• Wallet

• Passport

• Sunglasses

• Snacks

• One day’s worth of extra clothes (just in case my luggage is lost or delayed)

• Cardigan

• One pair of shoes in the bottom compartment

This is the type of packing setup I would use for a long-haul flight, especially when I want everything I need within easy reach. I don’t always carry an extra pair of shoes in my carry-on, so I’ll use the bottom compartment for a day’s worth of extra clothes and a few small essentials.

The regular Sherborn has enough room to function as a true personal item bag, but it still feels more polished than a backpack. I would not overpack it because shoulder bags can get heavy, but with the trolley sleeve, I think it would be very manageable with a rolling suitcase.

Sherborn Personal Item Size vs. Sherborn Large

Even though this review is focused on the regular Sherborn, I also have the Sherborn Large, and the size difference is pretty noticeable.

The regular Sherborn is the size I would choose for flights when I want a personal item bag. It feels compact enough to be practical but roomy enough to hold my essentials.

The Sherborn Large feels more like a true weekender bag. I would use it for a road trip, overnight stay, or weekend getaway where I want to pack clothes, shoes, toiletries, and maybe a laptop all in one bag.

For my personal travel style, I think the regular Sherborn is more useful because I usually travel with a suitcase and just need a polished personal item to go with it.

Pros and Cons of the Lo & Sons Sherborn

Pros

The biggest pro is the look. The Sherborn feels polished, minimal, and more elevated than a casual backpack or sporty duffel.

I also love the hidden bottom compartment. It gives you a separate space for shoes or laundry without making the bag look bulky from the outside.

The laptop pocket, interior organization, key leash, drink bottle pockets, and trolley sleeve make it feel like a practical travel bag, not just a pretty weekender.

I also like that it comes in two sizes. The regular Sherborn is better for a personal item, while the Large makes more sense for weekend trips.

Cons

One thing to consider is that the bottom compartment can take away some space from the main compartment when it is fully packed.

If you are used to traveling with a backpack, the Sherborn will not feel as hands-free unless you are using the trolley sleeve with a suitcase.

Is the Lo & Sons Sherborn Worth It?

I think the regular Sherborn makes the most sense for someone who wants a personal item bag that looks more polished than a backpack but still has practical travel features.

For me, the biggest appeal is that it feels elevated without being too dressy. I could use it at the airport, but I would also feel comfortable carrying it around the city.

I still love my Lo & Sons Melrose backpack, and I do think backpacks are hard to beat for hands-free travel. But for my next trip, I am excited to try the Sherborn because it feels more refined and a little more put together.

Final Thoughts

The Lo & Sons Sherborn personal item size is the bag I would personally choose out of the two Sherborn sizes.

The large Sherborn is great if you need more packing space, but the regular Sherborn feels more versatile for how I travel. It works as a personal item bag, has a polished look, includes smart organization, and has that hidden bottom compartment that makes it especially useful for shoes or separates.

If you are looking for a travel bag that feels more elevated than a backpack but still has the features you need for a flight, the Sherborn is definitely worth considering.

Lo & Sons Sherborn FAQ

• Is the Lo & Sons Sherborn a personal item bag?

  The regular Lo & Sons Sherborn is the personal item size. It measures 18.75” L x 8.5” W x 11” H when the sides are snapped.

• What is the difference between the Sherborn and Sherborn Large?

  The regular Sherborn is the personal item size, while the Sherborn Large is the carry-on size.

• Does the Lo & Sons Sherborn have a shoe compartment?

  Yes, the Sherborn has a hidden bottom compartment that can be used for shoes, laundry, toiletries, or other separates. Lo & Sons describes it as seamless and hidden from the outside.

• Does the Sherborn fit a laptop?

  Yes, the Sherborn has a dedicated laptop pocket. It can accomodate a 15-inch laptop.

• Which Sherborn size is best for travel?

  For flights, I would choose the regular Sherborn as a personal item bag. For weekend trips or road trips, the Sherborn Large gives you more packing space.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

I love packing summer outfits for trips. Tank tops, spaghetti straps, crochet tops, sleeveless tops, cute going-out pieces, summer dresses. Those are always the pieces I get most excited to pack.

But there is always one problem I have to think about before everything goes into my suitcase: what am I going to wear underneath?

Regular bras do not work with every neckline, and I personally hate wearing strapless bras. I do not even own one anymore because they never stayed in place. No matter how secure they claimed to be, I always felt like I was constantly pulling them back up or adjusting them, and the supposedly non-slip grip around the band never worked as promised. They were especially annoying to wear on hot summer trips.

CAKES Cleavage Bra Review

Over the years, I have figured out a few options that work for my summer travel outfits. I have packed Grippy CAKES on past trips, including Hawaii, and they are still one of my favorite small essentials for fitted tops. But CAKES recently came out with the CAKES Cleavage Bra, and I wanted to see if it would be a better option for those trickier vacation outfits where nipple covers are not enough.

After testing it with a few different summer outfits, I can already tell this is going to become a new staple in my travel wardrobe.

Why I Wanted to Try the CAKES Cleavage Bra

I have used a similar style bra from Gatherall in the past, and it worked well for a lot of my trips. I liked having an option for tops and dresses that did not work with a regular bra or with Grippy CAKES.

But this time, I wanted something that felt a little more flexible and adjustable.

That is what made me curious about the CAKES Cleavage Bra. This is not your typical sticky bra. Instead of feeling like a heavy padded adhesive bra, it feels more seamless and customizable. It comes in two separate adhesive cups that clasp together in the center, so you can adjust the placement depending on what you are wearing.

That adjustability is what really stood out to me, especially for travel outfits. Not every neckline sits the same way, so I like being able to move the cups around based on the top or dress.

CAKES Cleavage Bra vs. Grippy CAKES

The biggest thing to know is that the CAKES Cleavage Bra is not the same as Grippy CAKES.

I have loved Grippy CAKES for years, and I still use them all the time. They are great when I just need nipple coverage, especially with fitted tops. They take up almost no room in a suitcase, which is why I packed them for Hawaii and other summer trips.

But Grippy CAKES do not have adhesive. For me, they work best with fitted pieces because the fabric helps hold them in place. I have tried wearing them with looser tops, and they just do not stay put the same way.

That actually happened to me in Hawaii. I wore a crochet top and thought Grippy CAKES would be fine underneath, but as I was leaving the hotel, one of them fell down. Since my shirt was tucked in, it did not fall out completely, but I still had to run back upstairs and change what I was wearing underneath.

So now, if I am wearing something fitted and just need coverage, I still reach for Grippy CAKES. But if I need something that will stay in place, give more shape, and work under a looser or trickier top, that is where the CAKES Cleavage Bra makes more sense.

CAKES Cleavage Bra Product Details

One thing that makes the CAKES Cleavage Bra different from a typical sticky bra is the design. According to CAKES, it is made with non-toxic silicone and medical-grade adhesive, with a razor-thin design that is meant to look seamless under clothing.

The cups are shaped to mimic the natural shape of the breast, and since they clasp together in the center, you can adjust the placement depending on the neckline you are wearing. That is one of the biggest reasons I wanted to try it. Not every top or dress sits the same way, so I like having something that feels more customizable.

The CAKES Cleavage Bra is also reusable and comes in multiple sizes and colors, which makes it feel more practical for travel than something you would only wear once. For me, the biggest appeal is that it is small, lightweight, and gives me another option for tricky summer outfits without taking up much space in my suitcase.

What the CAKES Cleavage Bra Is Best For

The CAKES Cleavage Bra is more for shaping and cleavage. It is not really meant to give lift like a regular bra, so I would think of it more as an outfit solution than a full bra replacement.

For travel, I like that it is small, lightweight, and useful for those outfits where a regular bra does not work.

I would pack it for:

• Strappy tank tops

• Strapless tops

• Sweetheart necklines

• Crochet tops

• Summer dresses

• Going-out vacation outfits

• Loose tops where Grippy CAKES may not stay in place

I would not wear it for every single travel outfit, but I would definitely pack it when I know I have a few tops or dresses that need something more specific.

Outfit Test 1: Summer Dress

The first outfit I tested was a summer dress.

This is the type of dress where I would normally struggle with what bra to wear. I do not want bra straps showing, and a regular strapless bra can feel bulky.

For this dress, the CAKES Cleavage Bra worked really well. To be honest, I could probably wear this dress without it and be okay, but when I looked back at the photos, I actually liked the dress better with a little more cleavage.

For this outfit, it came down to personal preference. The bra was not absolutely necessary, but it did give the dress a more flattering shape. Next time I wear this dress on a trip, I would pack the CAKES Cleavage Bra to wear underneath.

Outfit Test 2: Black Strappy Tank Top

Next, I tested it with a flowy black strappy tank top.

This is exactly the type of top where a regular bra would bother me because I do not like when bra straps or bands show. The neckline is also pretty low, so I wanted to see if the CAKES Cleavage Bra would stay hidden.

This was a definite yes for me.

The Grippy CAKES would not work with this top because the fabric is not fitted enough to keep them in place. Since the CAKES Cleavage Bra has adhesive, it stayed put and gave me the shape I wanted.

I also liked that the color matched my skin tone really well. Even if the top shifted a little bit, the bra was not obvious.

For this kind of tank top, I would definitely wear the CAKES Cleavage Bra.

Outfit Test 3: Crochet Tank Top

Crochet tops are one of the main reasons I wanted to try this bra.

I have been really into crochet tops lately for summer travel. They are cute, summery, girly, and feminine, but they are also tricky because you can usually see some skin underneath.

The typical solution is to wear a slip or bandeau bra underneath, but I do not love either of those options. A slip can take away from the look of the top, and a bandeau can feel bulky or too obvious.

The CAKES Cleavage Bra worked so well with my crochet top.

You could not really tell I was wearing a bra underneath, it stayed in place, and it gave me enough coverage without taking away from the crochet detail. I also liked that it brought everything in toward the center, which gave my upper body a more streamlined, slimmer-looking silhouette.

This was one of my favorite outfit tests. I will definitely be wearing the CAKES Cleavage Bra with my crochet tops.

Outfit Test 4: Sweetheart Neckline Top

This is where the CAKES Cleavage Bra made the most sense to me.

I love sweetheart necklines because they are so feminine and flattering, but they usually need more than just nipple covers. The low dipped silhouette looks best when there is a little more shape and cleavage.

The CAKES Cleavage Bra worked perfectly with this top. It enhanced the neckline, gave me a little more shape, and made the top look better overall.

If I am packing a top or dress with a sweetheart neckline, this is exactly the kind of bra solution I would want to bring.

When I Would Pack Grippy CAKES vs. the CAKES Cleavage Bra

If you are wondering whether to pack Grippy CAKES or the CAKES Cleavage Bra, I think it depends on your outfits.

I actually like having both because they solve different outfit problems.

I would pack Grippy CAKES for fitted tops.
They are perfect when I just need nipple coverage and the top is fitted enough to keep them in place. They are also great if I want something I can wear for a long time since they do not have adhesive.

I would pack the CAKES Cleavage Bra for trickier tops.
This is what I would use for loose tanks, crochet tops, sweetheart necklines, strapless tops, and outfits where I want more shape or cleavage.

For travel, I like that the CAKES Cleavage Bra gives me another option without taking up much space in my suitcase.

How to Care for the CAKES Cleavage Bra

Since the CAKES Cleavage Bra uses adhesive, proper care after each use can help the adhesive last longer and keep the cups in better condition.

CAKES recommends rinsing both sides with warm water after each use, then letting it air-dry in a cool place out of direct sunlight. Once it is completely dry, you can place it back on the protective sheets for safe storage.

The recommended wear time is 6 to 8 hours per use, and the bra is designed for at least 8 wears, although the actual wear time and number of reuses can vary depending on how you use and care for it.

One care tip I think is important is to avoid sticking and re-sticking it too many times while applying it. The more you adjust it, the more the adhesive can break down, which can affect how well it stays in place.

After rinsing and drying mine, I found that the easiest way to put the protective plastic sheet back on is to fold the cup outward first, place the sheet back onto the adhesive side, and then fold the cup back into its normal shape. Once the protective sheets are back on, I use the harder plastic coverings over the cups and then store everything inside the provided velvet bag.

The One Con to Keep in Mind

The main con is that the CAKES Cleavage Bra is adhesive. I personally have not had any issues with it bothering my skin, but everyone’s skin is different. If you have really sensitive skin or do not like the feeling of adhesive on your body, that is something to keep in mind.

CAKES recommends wearing it for 6 to 8 hours per use. For me, I would use it more for a night out, dinner outfit, or shorter daytime outing. I would not wear it hiking, on a long sightseeing day, or during anything where I know I will be sweating a lot.

Grippy CAKES are different because they are not adhesive, so I can wear those for much longer without thinking about it.

Final Thoughts: Is the CAKES Cleavage Bra Worth Packing?

For me, yes.

The CAKES Cleavage Bra is not something I would wear with every single outfit on a trip, and it is not replacing my everyday bra. But it is absolutely something I would pack when I have specific summer outfits that need a better solution.

I love my Grippy CAKES, and they will continue to be a staple in my travel wardrobe. They are perfect for fitted tops when I just need coverage.

But the CAKES Cleavage Bra gives me something different. It stays in place, it is adjustable, it gives more shape, and it works better for those tricky vacation outfits where a regular bra, bandeau, or nipple covers are not quite right.

If you are packing strappy tank tops, crochet tops, sweetheart necklines, strapless tops, or summer dresses, this is definitely worth considering for your travel wardrobe.

CAKES Annual Sale: 30% Off Everything

If you’ve been wanting to try the CAKES Cleavage Bra or stock up on Grippy CAKES, this is a good time to order. CAKES is having its annual sale with 30% off everything from July 21 through July 31.

The sale includes CAKES nipple covers, the backless strapless cleavage bra, and their new silicone boob tape. Since this is their once-a-year sale, it is a good time to grab anything you’ve been wanting to try or replace before your next trip.

I’ll link the CAKES Cleavage Bra and Grippy CAKES below so you can shop the sale while it’s live.

• CAKES Cleavage Bra

• Grippy CAKES

Quick note: If you’re reading this after July 31, the annual sale may have ended, but you can still check the links for current pricing and availability.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

After spending nearly two weeks in Japan visiting Tokyo and spending time with family, it was finally time to head home. For my return flight, I flew United Airlines Flight UA33 from Narita International Airport (NRT) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

I booked an Economy Plus seat for this long-haul flight and wanted to share my experience from check-in through arrival. If you're planning a trip to Japan and considering United Airlines for your return flight to the United States, here's what you can expect.

Flight Details at a Glance

• Airline: United Airlines

• Flight: UA33

• Route: NRT → LAX

• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

• Seat: 32D Economy Plus

• Flight Time: 4:45PM

Checking In at Narita Airport

I flew out of Narita Airport at the beginning of April, and the airport was definitely busy that morning. Fortunately, the check-in process was straightforward.

United passengers can use the self-service kiosks to check in, print boarding passes, and print baggage tags. After attaching the tags to your luggage, you simply proceed to the bag drop counter.

One thing I appreciated was the luggage scale located near the check-in area. Since many travelers do a bit of shopping in Japan, it's helpful to double-check your luggage weight before getting in line.

Depending on your ticket and MileagePlus status, United generally allows up to two checked bags weighing up to 50 pounds each on international routes.

Security and Customs Were Surprisingly Fast

Although the airport looked crowded, security and customs moved much faster than I expected.

From entering the security line to clearing customs, the entire process took only about 10 minutes.

Once you're through security, you'll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops throughout the terminal. If you're looking to buy last-minute gifts, snacks, or Japanese souvenirs before heading home, be sure to leave yourself some extra time to explore.

There is also a United Club lounge available at Narita Airport.

I had a one-time United Club pass available but decided to save it for my layover in Los Angeles instead. Since I only had about an hour before boarding and was traveling with my sister, I preferred spending my time walking around the terminal together.

Boarding United Flight UA33

My flight departed from Gate 36.

Boarding was organized and easy to follow. United uses numbered boarding lanes, allowing passengers to line up based on their assigned boarding group.

I was in Boarding Group 2 thanks to my United credit card. Economy Plus passengers are typically assigned Group 3 boarding unless they qualify for an earlier group through status or another benefit.

If you're in Group 1 or Group 2, you can line up before boarding begins. Just keep in mind that United still boards pre-boarding passengers, elite members, and premium cabin passengers first, so it may take a few minutes before your group is called.

Overall, the boarding process was smooth and efficient.

Economy Plus Seat Review

For this flight, I selected Seat 32D in Economy Plus.

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner was configured in a 3-3-3 layout.

My favorite seat on long-haul flights is an aisle seat in the center section. I like having easy access to the restroom without needing to climb over other passengers, and I find there's less chance of being disturbed compared to sitting in a window seat section.

When I boarded, there was still plenty of overhead bin space available for my carry-on luggage.

At my seat, I found a blanket and neck pillow waiting for me.

As someone who is 5'9", I found the Economy Plus legroom very comfortable. The extra space made it easier to stretch out and get comfortable during the long flight across the Pacific.

If you're debating whether to upgrade from standard economy, the additional legroom is one of the biggest benefits of Economy Plus.

Power, Charging, and Amenities

The seatback entertainment screen included a USB charging port, and there was also a standard power outlet located underneath the seat.

United also provided complimentary earbuds for the entertainment system.

One issue I experienced during the flight was that my power outlet stopped working after we got into the air. It functioned while we were still on the ground but stopped providing power later in the flight.

After mentioning the issue to the crew, United provided MileagePlus points as compensation, which I appreciated.

Entertainment and In-Flight Experience

The restrooms were located about five rows behind my seat, making them easy to access throughout the flight.

Interestingly, one restroom felt noticeably roomier than the other, which is always a nice bonus on a long-haul flight.

United's entertainment system offered a large selection of movies and television shows. During the flight, I watched Marty Supreme, which I found surprisingly entertaining.

As for the food, I honestly didn't eat much.

I slept through most of the meal service and brought my own snacks onboard. The meal choices appeared similar to what I've seen on previous United international flights, typically offering beef, chicken, or pasta options.

Since airplane food isn't usually my favorite part of flying, I was perfectly happy sticking with my own snacks and getting some sleep instead.

Relaxing at the United Club in Los Angeles

After landing at Los Angeles International Airport, I had a long layover before my next flight home.

This is where I finally decided to use my United Club pass.

The lounge was busy, but there was still plenty of available seating. After spending more than 10 hours traveling, it was nice to have a quiet place to sit, recharge my devices, enjoy some food, and relax before continuing my journey.

If you have a long connection at LAX, lounge access can make the experience much more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I had a positive experience flying United Airlines Economy Plus from Narita to Los Angeles aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The highlights for me were the fast customs process at Narita Airport, organized boarding, comfortable Economy Plus seating, generous legroom, and the entertainment selection. While I did experience an issue with the power outlet, United handled the situation professionally and provided compensation afterward.

Would I fly United Economy Plus on this route again? Absolutely.

For travelers flying home from Japan, Economy Plus offers a more comfortable experience without the much higher cost of Premium Plus or Business Class.

Flying to Japan is exciting, but let's be honest: spending more than 13 hours on a plane can feel intimidating. For our recent trip to Tokyo, I flew United Airlines Economy Plus from Houston (IAH) to Narita (NRT) and wanted to share what the experience was really like, including the seat, food, entertainment, Wi-Fi, and whether I think Economy Plus is worth the extra cost.

Boarding at Houston Intercontinental Airport

Before boarding, I tried to use my United Club pass at the lounge near the E Gates. Unfortunately, the lounge was not accepting one-time passes because it was already at capacity.

While that was disappointing, the gate area itself wasn't bad. My flight departed from Gate E18, and there were several restaurants nearby where passengers could grab a meal or drink before boarding.

Since I have the United Explorer Card, I was able to board with Group 2. Economy Plus passengers typically board with Group 3, so either way, passengers in these seats generally board earlier than standard economy travelers. Boarding was smooth, and before long we were making our way onto the aircraft.

United Economy Plus Seat Review

For this flight, I selected seat 32D, an Economy Plus aisle seat in the middle section of the aircraft.

The plane was configured in a 3-3-3 layout and the flight was completely full.

Personally, I prefer sitting in the middle section aisle on long-haul flights. I don't have to climb over other passengers to get to the restroom, and I'm less likely to be disturbed when people need to get up throughout the flight.

The biggest advantage of Economy Plus is the additional legroom.

At 5'9", I had enough space to stretch my legs comfortably without feeling cramped. No, it's not comparable to Premium Economy or Business Class, but for a flight of this length, the extra room was noticeable and appreciated.

If you're debating whether Economy Plus is worth the extra cost for a flight to Japan, the legroom alone was one of the biggest benefits for me.

Pillow, Blanket, and Earbuds

When I arrived at my seat, United had already placed a pillow and blanket on every seat.

The pillow was more of a neck pillow than a traditional airline pillow, which was a nice touch for a long-haul international flight.

I actually brought my own travel pillow and didn't use United's pillow. I travel with a Cabeau TNE Neck Pillow on every long-haul flight because it's the only neck pillow I've found that consistently helps me sleep on airplanes.

The blanket ended up being more useful for me. It was individually wrapped, had a decent amount of weight to it, and was comfortable enough to use throughout the flight. It wasn't especially thick or luxurious, but it kept me warm and comfortable.

United also handed out complimentary earbuds for the entertainment system. I normally use my own earphones, but I tested United's earbuds just to see how they sounded. They worked fine for watching movies, although my personal earphones definitely offered better sound quality.

Charging Options and Cabin Comfort

One thing I appreciated was the ability to keep my devices charged throughout the flight.

There was a USB charging port built directly into the entertainment screen and a standard power outlet located underneath the seat. Having both available made it easy to keep my phone and other devices powered for the entire journey.

The lavatories were located only a few rows behind my seat, which was convenient. Interestingly, one of the lavatories felt noticeably larger than the other. It's a small detail, but having a little extra room can make a difference when you're trying to freshen up after sitting for several hours.

Food and Drinks on United Economy Plus

Not long after takeoff, the first snack service began with pretzels and drinks.

Later came the main meal service. Passengers could choose between beef, chicken, or pasta.

I selected the beef teriyaki meal.

The tray included:

• Beef teriyaki entrée

• Salad with champagne dressing

• Dinner roll

• Brownie dessert

Overall, I would describe the meal as average. The salad was decent, the beef was okay, and the brownie was probably my favorite item on the tray. Nothing was particularly memorable, but it was perfectly acceptable airline food.

About six and a half hours before landing, another meal service was offered. This time the options were a chicken sandwich or a vegetarian sandwich.

I chose the chicken sandwich.

Then, closer to arrival in Tokyo, breakfast was served. The options included pancakes, eggs, or fruit.

I selected the fruit plate, which included fresh fruit such as pineapple and grapes. After spending so many hours on a plane, the fruit sounded much more appealing than a heavier breakfast.

Entertainment and Wi-Fi

The entertainment system was one of the highlights of the flight.

There was a large selection of movies and TV shows available, and I spent most of the flight watching movies. Having plenty of entertainment options definitely helped pass the time during such a long journey.

United also offered in-flight Wi-Fi.

Unfortunately, this was probably the weakest part of my experience.

The internet connection was slow, inconsistent, and often frustrating to use. Pages took a long time to load, and the connection would frequently drop. I had hoped to browse the internet and stay connected during the flight, but the service wasn't reliable enough for much more than basic use.

The good news is that I later received a refund for the Wi-Fi purchase, which I appreciated.

Arrival in Tokyo

As we began our descent into Narita Airport, I was actually feeling pretty good considering how long the flight had been.

By the time we landed, I was definitely ready to get off the plane, but I wasn't exhausted or miserable. For a flight lasting more than 13 hours, that's honestly one of the best compliments I can give.

Between the extra legroom, entertainment options, blanket, and my trusty Cabeau neck pillow, I felt reasonably comfortable throughout the journey.

Is United Economy Plus Worth It?

For me, yes.

The additional legroom made a noticeable difference on such a long flight, and the entertainment selection helped keep me occupied throughout the journey.

The food was average and the Wi-Fi was disappointing, but the overall experience was comfortable, and I would have no problem flying United Economy Plus to Japan again.

If you're already planning to fly economy on a long-haul flight to Japan, I think Economy Plus is worth considering for the extra space alone.

Final Rating: 8/10

A solid long-haul economy experience that made the journey to Japan comfortable enough that I'd gladly fly it again.

Staying Connected in Japan with Ninja WiFi eSIM

One thing I always recommend before traveling to Japan is setting up your internet connection before you leave home.

For this trip, I used a Ninja WiFi’s eSIM and set it up before leaving the U.S. When I landed at Narita Airport, my phone automatically connected to Japan's network, so I was ready to use Google Maps, check train schedules, and navigate Tokyo right away.

👉 Use our affiliate link to save 15% on your Ninja WiFi eSIM order or 80% off on unlimited data plans.

Planning Your Tokyo Trip?

Now that you've made it to Japan, it's time to start exploring Tokyo.

Whether you're interested in iconic sights like Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing, neighborhood guides, local cafes, shopping districts, or detailed itineraries, we've created a collection of Tokyo travel guides to help you plan your trip.

Some of our most popular guides include:

• 15 Best Things to Do in Shibuya for First-Time Visitors

• 6 Fun Things To Do in Ginza Tokyo

• 30 Must-Do Experiences in Tokyo (Our Personal Favorites)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is United Economy Plus worth it for flights to Japan?

  For me, yes. The additional legroom made a noticeable difference on a flight lasting more than 13 hours. While the seat itself is similar to standard economy, the extra space helped make the journey more comfortable.

• How much extra legroom does United Economy Plus have?

  United Economy Plus seats on the Boeing 787 offer 34 inches of seat pitch, giving passengers 3 extra inches of legroom compared to standard economy seats.

  For a 13-hour flight to Japan, I found the extra space well worth it.

• Does United Economy Plus include priority boarding?

  Economy Plus passengers typically board in Group 3.

• What is the best seat for a long-haul flight to Japan?

  Seat preference is personal, but I prefer an aisle seat in the middle section of the aircraft. It allows easy restroom access and reduces the chance of needing to climb over other passengers.

• How long is the flight from Houston to Tokyo Narita?

  The nonstop flight from Houston (IAH) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) is typically around 13 to 14 hours depending on winds and routing.

• Is United Economy Plus the same as Premium Economy?

  No. United Economy Plus is a standard economy seat with additional legroom. United Premium Plus is a separate cabin with wider seats, additional recline, upgraded dining, and enhanced amenities. Economy Plus is a more affordable upgrade for travelers who primarily want extra space.

On this trip to Tokyo, we wanted to try something different. We love staying in different neighborhoods whenever we visit Japan, and this time we decided to stay near one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Tokyo Tower.

We’ve stayed in several different areas of Tokyo over the years, including Ginza, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, so we were really curious how this area would compare. Those neighborhoods are exciting, busy, and convenient in their own way, but staying near Tokyo Tower felt like a completely different experience.

Even though we grew up in Japan, Tokyo Tower was one of those places we never really explored much when we lived there. It is funny how sometimes when you live somewhere, you do not always visit the places tourists are most excited to see. So for this trip, we thought it would be fun to stay right near Tokyo Tower and experience that area more slowly.

We booked a room at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, and we specifically chose a room with a Tokyo Tower view. That ended up being the highlight of our entire stay.

First Impressions of the Hotel

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo is located right next to Tokyo Tower in the Shiba Park area. One thing that immediately stood out to us was how peaceful the location felt.

The hotel sits in a quieter park-like setting, which made the whole stay feel slower in the best way. It was still Tokyo, but it felt like a softer, more peaceful side of the city.

The building itself also feels unique because it is a standalone hotel surrounded by greenery. It does not feel like it is squeezed between other buildings, which is rare for Tokyo. When we later visited inside the Tokyo Tower, we could actually spot our hotel from there because it really stands out in its own little area.

There is also a garden trail near the hotel, which was a nice bonus. We were able to take a peaceful walk around the area and enjoy the scenery without feeling like we were in the middle of a busy city.

The Location: Perfect for Tokyo Tower

If visiting Tokyo Tower is a priority for your trip, this hotel is hard to beat. We were able to walk to Tokyo Tower in about seven minutes, and there were beautiful views of the tower from different angles around the hotel.

The hotel is also close to Shiba Park and Zojoji Temple, so it is a great base if you want to explore this part of Tokyo slowly. We really enjoyed being able to step outside and immediately have access to scenic areas, temples, gardens, and Tokyo Tower views.

Compared to places we have stayed before this area felt much quieter. Those areas are great if you want shopping, nightlife, restaurants, and easy access to major stations, but staying near Tokyo Tower felt more restful. It was the kind of hotel stay where we actually wanted to spend time in the room, enjoy the view, and take things slower.

That being said, this is not necessarily the most central location if your main goal is shopping, nightlife, or being in the middle of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods. If you want to be surrounded by tons of restaurants, shopping, and constant energy, you might prefer Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Ginza.

But if you want a quieter, more relaxing Tokyo stay with incredible views, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo is a wonderful option.

Getting to the Hotel

When we arrived, we had luggage with us and decided to take a taxi to the hotel instead of walking from the station. The walk would have been around 20 minutes, and with three people, suitcases, and bags, the taxi was absolutely worth it.

Our taxi ride was around ¥1,100, which was still under $10 at the exchange rate during our trip. For us, it was a very easy decision and made arriving at the hotel much less stressful.

We also later noticed that the hotel offers a free shuttle bus service, so that is something worth asking about when you stay. It can be helpful if you do not want to spend extra money on a taxi.

Check-In Experience

The service was excellent from the moment we arrived.

As soon as our taxi pulled up, staff members were waiting outside to help guests. They opened the door for us, took our luggage right away, and directed us to the front desk.

Check-in time was 3 PM, and they were strict about it. We were not able to check in early, but they stored our luggage for us so we could go out and do some sightseeing until the room was ready.

We also used a luggage delivery service for one of our suitcases. This is something locals in Japan have used for years, and it is becoming more popular with tourists too. Instead of carrying a large suitcase through train stations, you can have it delivered to your hotel.

Our large suitcase arrived safely and right on time at the hotel, exactly as expected, and it was brought straight to our room when we checked in.

Our Room: Tokyo Tower View With Balcony

We stayed in Room 1503, and the view was incredible.

This was easily one of the best hotel room views we have had in a long time. Every time we came back to the room, we immediately looked out the window. It was one of those views you actually want to sit and enjoy, not just glance at once and forget about.

From our room, we could see Tokyo Tower, the city skyline, temples, greenery, and the surrounding park area. It was especially beautiful because the view had so many layers. Tokyo Tower was the main attraction, but the surrounding buildings and temple rooftops made the view feel even more special.

We also had a balcony, which made the room feel even better. It was chilly during our stay, but we still loved being able to step outside and take in the view.

Room Size and Beds

The room was spacious, especially for Tokyo.

There were three of us staying in the room, so we had two twin beds plus an extra bed for our younger sister. The two main twin beds were a tad larger than the extra bed, but all three beds worked fine for us.

For reference, we are all around 5'6" to 5'9", and the beds were comfortable enough for our stay. We also slept well both nights, which is always one of the most important parts of any hotel stay.

Room Layout and Storage

The room had a desk area, but we mostly used it for storage and luggage. Since there were three of us, we needed space to keep our things accessible, and this area worked well for that.

There were also outlets near the desk, and we noticed converters in the drawer, which was a thoughtful detail. Since we are from the U.S., our devices usually work with Japanese outlets, but it was still nice that the hotel provided converters for guests who might need them.

There was also a closet near the hallway entrance. It had hangers, an iron, an ironing board, robes, slippers, and a luggage rack. We did not really use the closet for luggage because we did not want to open the closet every time we needed something, but we did use the hangers.

The room also had a TV, free Wi-Fi, and a mini bar area.

Coffee, Tea, and Mini Bar

The room had a small drink station with coffee, tea, cups, and bottled water. They provided Nespresso coffee, decaf and regular options, cream, sugar, and green tea.

They also provided one bottle of water per person, and these were replenished daily. We actually purchased our own bottled water too, but we ended up not needing as much because the hotel restocked the water every day.

The mini fridge had drinks available for purchase, including beer and champagne. We did not purchase any of the hotel drinks, but we did use the fridge to store some of our own drinks.

Housekeeping and Turn-Down Service

The housekeeping service was one of the best parts of our stay.

Every morning when we left and came back, the room was spotless. They replenished everything consistently: towels, bottled water, robes, slippers, and bathroom amenities.

What impressed us most was that they actually replenished everything for three people. A lot of hotels know there are three guests in the room but still only provide supplies for two people. Here, they gave us three of everything, every time.

They also offered turn-down service in the evening. When we came back at night, the beds were made again, hotel pajamas were laid out, and they left a little card with the next day’s weather forecast. It was such a thoughtful touch and made the stay feel extra special.

One small detail we loved was that housekeeping neatly tied up our cords with a gold tie and placed them nicely on the nightstand. We had never had that done at a hotel before, and it really showed how much attention they put into the room.

The Bathroom

The bathroom setup was excellent, especially for three people.

One thing we appreciated was that the toilet was separate from the shower and sink area. This is always helpful when multiple people are staying in one room because someone can use the toilet while someone else is showering or getting ready.

The toilet room had a Japanese washlet toilet, a small sink, and a phone. The toilet was high-tech and opened automatically as well as sanitized when you walked near it. It also had several different flush settings, bidet options, and pressure controls.

If you have never used a Japanese toilet before, the controls might look a little intimidating at first, but the main buttons were easy enough to understand.

The main bathroom area had a large sink counter, and there was enough room for all three of us to keep our toiletry bags and makeup bags out. That is not always easy in hotel bathrooms, so we really appreciated the space.

Bathroom Amenities

The bathroom amenities were amazing.

The hotel provided so many thoughtful items, including:

• Hairbrushes

• Bamboo toothbrushes

• Toothpaste

• Hair ties

• Razors

• Bath salts

• Cotton pads

• Q-tips

• Body washcloths

• Entire Skincare Kit

We especially appreciated the skincare set. It included cleansing cream, cleansing foam, moisture rich lotion, and vital cream. Everything was made in Japan, and the quality felt really good.

This was actually one of the first times we used a hotel skincare kit and ended up to taking the extra kits home.

The hair ties were also a thoughtful touch. They were a little too weak for thick hair, but we still appreciated that the hotel included them.

Shower and Bathtub

The shower worked great. The water heated up quickly, the temperature was easy to adjust, and the water pressure was excellent.

We also liked the shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Everything smelled really nice, lathered well, and felt high quality.

The bathtub was another highlight. It was spacious and had a jacuzzi feature, although we just used it as a regular bath. My sister and I both took baths every night with the provided bath salts, and it was such a relaxing way to end the day.

After walking around Tokyo all day, being able to come back and soak in a warm bath made the room feel even more comfortable.

Air Purifier and Humidifier

One thing we often see in Japanese hotels, but not as often in Western hotels, is an air purifier or humidifier. This room had a combination unit.

We only used it as an air purifier, but it also had a water tank if guests wanted to use the humidifier function. Humidifiers are commonly used in Japan during colder months because the air can get dry, and adding moisture can help with your throat and overall comfort.

Hotel Amenities

The hotel has a lot of amenities, but we honestly did not use most of them.

When we checked in, they offered us an additional package that included access to some areas like the lounge, but it was an extra cost, and we did not feel like we needed it.

The hotel has several restaurants and bars, but we found them expensive. One cup of coffee was around ¥1,400, which was about $10 during our stay. The restaurant ambiance and views looked beautiful, but we could not get over paying that much for a cup of coffee.

There was also a bakery where you could buy bread to take away. We tried some bread from there, but you are not supposed to eat it in the lobby, so we brought it back to our room. Surprisingly, the bread was quite average and nothing special.

The hotel also has several shops, including a gift shop that featured an impressive array of chocolate. The chocolate displays were genuinely captivating and beautifully arranged. Some pieces were crafted to resemble realistic flowers and soft velvet. It was so detailed you almost expected them to be fabric rather than confection.

There is also a bowling alley, which they call a bowling salon. We tried to check it out, but it was closed at the time, so we only caught a glimpse of it. I don’t think we would have actually spent time bowling, but it was an interesting amenity that the hotel offered.

On the basement level, we also found a massage place and a Lawson convenience store. We were so bummed we did not discover the Lawson sooner because we had been walking seven to ten minutes to convenience stores during our stay. It would have been very helpful to know there was one connected to the hotel area.

The hotel also has a spa, fitness center, and pool, but we did not check those out. Some of these amenities may require an additional fee, so it is worth confirming before you go.

Food Nearby

Since the hotel restaurants were expensive, we mostly ate outside of the hotel.

One morning, we walked about ten minutes to an organic French-style bakery and restaurant nearby. The pastries and dishes were genuinely delicious, though the table service fell short of the high standards we’re used to in Japan. For that reason, we’d probably skip dining in next time and instead pick up items from their bakery counter to enjoy as carryout.

If you stay here, we recommend checking nearby cafes, bakeries, convenience stores, or restaurants before your trip so you have a few easy options saved. The area is peaceful and beautiful, but it is not as packed with restaurants as busier neighborhoods like Shinjuku or Shibuya.

What We Loved

Our favorite part of the stay was definitely the view. Having Tokyo Tower right outside our window made the room feel so special.

We also loved:

• The peaceful location

• The spacious room

• The balcony

• The excellent housekeeping

• The thoughtful bathroom amenities

• The separate toilet room

• The easy walk to Tokyo Tower

• The quiet park-like setting

This hotel felt like a relaxing break from the busier parts of Tokyo.

What We Did Not Love

The biggest downside was the cost of food and drinks inside the hotel. The restaurants and coffee were more expensive than we wanted to pay, so we skipped most of them.

The room style also felt a little outdated in some areas, with a few pieces and design choices that didn’t feel entirely current. However, this didn’t bother us much because the room remained very clean, pleasantly spacious, and genuinely comfortable. The bathroom and toilet appeared more recently updated, so the elements that mattered most to our stay worked really well.

The location may also not be ideal for everyone. If this is your first time in Tokyo and you want to be close to nightlife, shopping, and tons of restaurants, you may prefer a more central or lively area. But if you want a quieter stay with beautiful views, this hotel is a great choice.

Would We Stay Here Again?

Yes, we would stay here again, especially if we wanted a peaceful Tokyo stay near Tokyo Tower.

This hotel felt relaxing, comfortable, and special. The Tokyo Tower view made the room memorable, and the service was excellent from start to finish. Even though some parts of the room felt a little dated, everything was clean, spacious, and well maintained.

We would especially recommend The Prince Park Tower Tokyo if you are visiting Tokyo Tower, want a quieter hotel experience, or are looking for a room with a beautiful view.

Final Thoughts

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo gave us one of the most relaxing hotel stays we have had in Tokyo. We loved being surrounded by greenery, having Tokyo Tower within walking distance, and coming back to a spacious room with an incredible view.

The service was top notch, the housekeeping was excellent, and the bathroom amenities were some of the best we have had at a hotel.

Related Posts You May Like:

• Things to Do Near Tokyo Tower

• Best Tokyo Tower Photo Spots

• Things to Do in Akasaka, Tokyo

• Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

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Wondering where to capture iconic photos of Tokyo Tower? We stayed at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo and spent a few days walking around the area, which gave us plenty of time to discover some of the best places to photograph Tokyo Tower.

Some of these locations were spots we had saved before our trip, while others we found naturally as we explored the neighborhood. A few of the photo spots we knew about ahead of time were a little tricky to find, even with an address, so I created the map below with the actual GPS pinpoint locations to make it much easier.

We also included a couple of popular locations that we personally passed on because the lines were long. We didn’t have too much FOMO about missing one specific photo since there were plenty of other Tokyo Tower photo spots nearby without the wait.

7-Eleven Tokyo Tower Photo Spot

Address: 3 Chome−15−9 サンテラス芝公園, Minato City, Tokyo

This was one of the Tokyo Tower photo spots we were most excited to visit, especially at night. We actually stopped by this 7-Eleven earlier in the day to grab snacks since our hotel was nearby, and we made a mental note to come back later once the tower was lit up.

When we returned at night, we were surprised to see an actual line forming for photos. The line wasn’t too bad at first, so we almost decided to wait. But there was a couple with a photographer doing what looked like a full engagement or wedding photoshoot in front of the store.

Since they were doing a full photoshoot, they were taking way more than one quick photo. After waiting about 10 minutes with no end in sight, we decided to leave. They did not seem to notice, or maybe did not mind, that other people were waiting for their turn.

Instead, we walked a little farther down the street and ended up capturing photos nearby without the wait.

Street Leading to Shiba Park and Zojoji Temple

Address: 4-chōme-7 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo

This street leads toward Zojoji Temple and sits between Le Pain Quotidien and Kumano Shrine. It’s a lovely area with a nice view of Tokyo Tower in the background.

There was some foot traffic when we visited, but nothing too overwhelming. It was much easier to take photos here compared to some of the more popular Instagram spots around Tokyo Tower.

Zojoji Temple

Address: 4-chōme-7 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo

Zojoji Temple is one of the most classic places to photograph Tokyo Tower. If you explore the temple grounds, you’ll find several great angles with the tower in the background.

Our favorite view was from the top of the temple steps. From there, you can capture the temple grounds with Tokyo Tower rising behind them, which makes for a beautiful contrast between traditional and modern Tokyo.

The temple grounds are free to enter, so anyone can stop by and enjoy the view.

Tokyo Tower Parking Garage Entrance

Address: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo

This photo spot is actually the doorway entrance and exit to the Tokyo Tower motorcycle parking lot, located near the base of Tokyo Tower.

We had seen this location on Instagram before our trip, but when we arrived, the line was very long. We didn’t feel like it was worth waiting for, especially since there were so many other places nearby to photograph the tower.

Our hotel was across the street, and every time we walked by this spot, there was still a line. It seems to be one of the more popular Tokyo Tower photo locations, so be prepared to wait if this is a shot you really want.

Tokyo Tower Crosswalk Intersection

Map Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kwvHhT3DLWxjE4fQA

We just happened to pass by this spot while walking to 7-11 to grab some snacks. We call it the Tokyo Tower Crosswalk Intersection, though many people on social media refer to it by its nearby landmark, Akabanebashi Station.

When we were crossing the street, there was a noticeable line of people, which seemed like an odd place to queue, so we figured it must be a popular photo spot. The small crowd looked like they were patiently waiting their turn to snap a picture.

You can definitely catch a view of Tokyo Tower from here, but we never really understood what made this particular spot so special. Maybe it’s the cluster of Japanese signs and the crosswalk framed with Tokyo Tower in the background that draws people in.

We walked past this corner several times (our hotel was just across the street) but each time we didn’t feel compelled to take a photo, especially with the queue that forms. That said, if you happen to be nearby and there’s no line, it can still be worth a quick stop.

Health Sidewalk for Physical Fitness Measurement

Address: 4 Chome-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo

We found this spot while walking back to our hotel. There was a little trail that led toward the hotel entrance, and it ended up having a great view of Tokyo Tower.

This location is directly adjacent to Tokyo Tower, so the view is very close and impressive. It’s actually part of a walking loop trail with built-in signs for assessing physical fitness, balance, and agility, which is where the name comes from.

It was a fun little area to stumble upon, and it felt much quieter than the more famous photo spots nearby.

Fun Fact: Depending on the time of year, the tower is lit up in different colors to mark seasons and special events. For a schedule of the seasonal light displays, check Tokyo Tower’s official website.

Shiba Park

Address / Closest Landmark: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, East Entrance / Banquet Hall Entrance
4 Chome-8-1 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-8563, Japan

Shiba Park is massive, but the particular spot we loved was right in front of The Prince Park Tower Tokyo. We could even see this area from our hotel room.

It’s a lovely place to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the view of Tokyo Tower. Since this exact spot does not have a specific address, the closest landmark to use is the Entrance of the Banquet Hall at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, East Entrance.

This was one of our favorite low-effort places to enjoy the tower because it was peaceful, spacious, and very convenient from our hotel.

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo

Address: 4 Chome-8-1 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-8563, Japan

Of course, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo itself has an amazing view of Tokyo Tower. You do need to book a stay here to get the room views, but it’s worth considering if you want to splurge a little on your trip like we did.

We paid extra for a room with a prime Tokyo Tower view, and it was absolutely worth it. Being able to wake up, relax, and see Tokyo Tower right from our room made the stay feel extra special.

If Tokyo Tower photos are a priority for your trip, staying nearby makes it much easier to visit these locations at different times of day, especially in the evening when the tower is lit up.

Final Thoughts on Finding Tokyo Tower Photo Spots

One thing we quickly realized while exploring this area is that you don’t have to wait in long lines to get a great photo of Tokyo Tower. Some of the most popular photo spots are popular for a reason, but there are also plenty of beautiful views nearby if you’re willing to walk around and explore a little.

Since we stayed so close to Tokyo Tower, we were able to visit these spots at different times of day and see which ones felt worth it for us. Some locations were better at night, some were easier during the day, and a few were spots we skipped altogether because the wait did not feel necessary.

Hopefully, this guide and map make it easier for you to find the exact Tokyo Tower photo locations without wandering around too much or guessing where to go. And if one spot has a long line, don’t worry too much. There is probably another great view just a short walk away.

Related Tokyo Posts

Planning more of your Tokyo trip? Here are a few other posts that may help:

• Things to Do Near Tokyo Tower

• Things to Do in Akasaka, Tokyo

• Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

• How We Handled Rain in Tokyo

• What to Wear and Pack for Japan in March

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Tokyo Tower is one of those iconic landmarks you see in so many photos of Tokyo, but what we loved most about visiting this area was realizing how much there is to do nearby. Instead of only going straight to the tower, we explored the surrounding neighborhood through a relaxed walking route filled with parks, temples, shrines, museums, modern architecture, and plenty of Tokyo Tower views along the way.

We stayed at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, which made this area especially easy to explore since Shiba Park and Tokyo Tower were right outside our hotel.

Note: We spread these stops out over more than one day, but they are all close enough to connect as a flexible walking route. You can do several of them in one day or choose a few based on your schedule.

You could turn this into a half-day or full-day Tokyo Tower walking itinerary, or spread it out like we did and enjoy the area at a slower pace. This route gives you such a nice mix of old and new Tokyo.

Tokyo Tower Area Walking Route Map

We spread these stops out over more than one day, but they are all close enough to connect as a flexible walking route around the Tokyo Tower area. You can follow the full route if you have enough time, or choose a few stops based on your schedule.

You can follow the full route if you have enough time, or choose a few stops based on your schedule.

Suggested route:

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo → Shiba Park → Zojoji Temple → NHK Broadcasting Museum → Atago Jinja → Toranomon Hills - Mori Tower → Tokyo Tower

Shiba Park

Shiba Park is a peaceful, lush urban oasis nestled right in the shadow of the iconic Tokyo Tower. We booked our stay at The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, which is located along the southern edge of the park, and we were lucky enough to have a clear, amazing view of Tokyo Tower right from our hotel room.

The park itself is massive, but one of our favorite areas was the grassy lawn directly in front of the hotel. We saw so many people lounging, picnicking, and taking photos of Tokyo Tower from this spot. It is a great place to relax, slow down, and enjoy the view without feeling like you are in the middle of a busy city.

If you want to add a historical landmark to your visit, you can also walk over to the Former Daitokuin Reibyo Somon Gate. This historic gateway once marked the entrance to Daitokuin Temple, an important cultural site connected to the Tokugawa family.

The Tokugawa family is significant because they ruled Japan for over 250 years, during a period known as the Edo period. This long era helped shape much of Japan’s culture, politics, and society, making this small gate an interesting historical stop within Shiba Park.

Zojoji Temple

You can’t miss Zojoji Temple when visiting Shiba Park. It took us a while to actually make our way to the temple grounds from our hotel, not because it was a long walk, but because we kept stopping along the way. We grabbed breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, took photos around the park, and kept getting distracted by all the beautiful views of Tokyo Tower.

Once we reached the temple grounds, it felt peaceful and spacious. Right behind the temple, Tokyo Tower stands tall in the background, creating one of the most iconic views in the area.

It is such a great photo spot, especially if you love capturing traditional architecture with the modern Tokyo skyline. We also visited right around cherry blossom season, so we were lucky enough to see some of the trees just starting to bloom.

The temple itself has a long history and is an important Buddhist temple in Tokyo. We enjoyed walking around slowly, taking in the details, and seeing the rows of small Jizo statues dressed in colorful hats and bibs at the Garden of Unborn Children.

Since Zojoji Temple is right next to Shiba Park, it is an easy stop to visit before or after exploring the park. It also adds a meaningful cultural stop to a Tokyo Tower walking itinerary, especially because you get that beautiful mix of old and new Tokyo in one place.

NHK Broadcasting Museum

The NHK Broadcasting Museum was such a fun stop for us, and we actually decided to go here on a whim while we were eating breakfast and discussing our plan for the day. The museum focuses on the history of broadcasting in Japan, including radio, television, and NHK’s role in Japanese media.

Since we grew up in Japan, we watched a ton of shows on NHK when we were kids. Our mom even got us on a famous children’s educational program called Okaasan to Issho (Together with Mama), which was super popular at the time. Visiting this museum definitely brought back so many memories, and the best part is that it is completely free.

Even if you are not familiar with any of the shows broadcast on NHK, it is still a fun and interactive museum. There were sections where you could act like a real news broadcaster or weather reporter, complete with a teleprompter, lights, cameras, and a full studio setup. We spent so much time here pretending to be news anchors and had the best time.

This is not one of those super touristy Tokyo attractions, which made it feel a little more local and low-key. We enjoyed browsing the exhibits and seeing vintage broadcasting equipment, old televisions, cameras, and displays related to Japanese TV history. It is also a nice indoor stop if you want a short break from walking, especially on a rainy day or hot afternoon.

Atago Jinja

Atago Jinja wasn’t initially on our itinerary, but when we exited the NHK Broadcasting Museum, we realized it was located right across the way. Since it was so close, we thought we should give it a quick visit before heading toward Toranomon Hills, Tokyo Tower, or another nearby stop.

It definitely ended up being a quick stop since the shrine area is fairly small, and it was also raining, so we didn’t want to wander around outside for too long.

Even though our visit was brief, Atago Jinja ended up being a memorable stop because it feels so tucked away from the busy streets, despite being right in the middle of Tokyo. The shrine is known for its steep stone staircase, often called the “Steps to Success.” Luckily, we were already at the top of the stairs when we arrived because it is definitely a bit of a climb. The view from the top of the staircase is gorgeous, with the city stretching out below.

The shrine grounds have a serene atmosphere, and it is a great place to slow down for a few minutes before continuing on to Toranomon Hills or Tokyo Tower. If you are putting together a walking itinerary in this area, Atago Jinja is a beautiful little detour to include.

Toranomon Hills - Mori Tower

Mori Tower gave us a completely different feel from the temples, shrines, and parks we visited around the Tokyo Tower area. After spending time around Shiba Park, Zojoji Temple, and Atago Jinja, it was interesting to step into such a sleek and modern side of Tokyo. The area is filled with tall buildings, restaurants, shops, office spaces, and polished outdoor plazas, giving it a very upscale, contemporary energy.

One of the standout features outside in Oval Plaza is “Roots,” a striking 10-meter-tall sculpture of a seated figure. The sculpture is made up of letters and characters from eight different languages, symbolizing global diversity, peaceful coexistence, and cultural connection. It fits perfectly with the international and forward-thinking feel of the Toranomon area.

There are also plenty of dining options here, which makes it a great place to stop for a meal, coffee, or a quick break. The choices can feel a little overwhelming because there are so many restaurants, with cuisine ranging from Japanese to Thai and more.

What we loved most about the interior of Mori Tower was how beautifully it blurred the line between indoors and outdoors. With towering glass walls, lush garden beds, and warm wood-paneled terraces overhead, the space felt bright, airy, and open, almost like an urban oasis, but with all the comfort of being inside.

If you enjoy seeing both the traditional and modern sides of Tokyo in one day, adding Toranomon Hills to your Tokyo Tower walking itinerary makes the route feel more complete. It is a nice contrast to the quieter temples and shrines nearby and gives you a glimpse of Tokyo’s more polished, contemporary side.

Tokyo Tower: The Perfect Final Stop

We saved Tokyo Tower as the final stop in this guide, and it made the perfect ending to our time exploring the area. We grew up in Japan, so we could not believe that we had never actually gone inside Tokyo Tower before. It is funny how sometimes the places you live near, or see all the time, are the ones you end up not visiting for some reason.

After taking in the sweeping views of the Tokyo Tower from the outside, it was finally time to explore its interior up close. There are a few different ticket options when visiting Tokyo Tower, and we purchased tickets that included access to both the Main Deck and the Top Deck. The Main Deck was spacious and did not feel overly crowded at all. There was plenty of room to take in the views without feeling rushed.

Even though we spent a little extra to get access to the Top Deck, we actually enjoyed the Main Deck much more. The Top Deck was fairly small and the views didn’t feel that much better than what we had on the Main Deck. They try to make the trip up there feel special by offering a complimentary drink and a quick photo-op, but that part passes so quickly it hardly seems worth it.

We received a card with instructions on how to obtain a digital copy of the photo that had been taken, but for some reason the QR code wouldn’t scan when I tried. I should have given it another go, but when you’re traveling, small things like that often slip my mind because my brain is so exhausted and drained by the end of the day.

After enjoying the views, we headed back downstairs where there were a variety of shops and eateries. We also came across a fun machine that printed out a newspaper front page from the day you were born. We thought this was such a cute idea and decided to give it a try. Of course, it was all written in Japanese, but with Google Translate, it was easy to read the headlines and see what was happening on our birthdays.

Once we exited Tokyo Tower, the tower was glowing in its bright red-orange color against the evening sky. It was such a beautiful sight as we walked back to our hotel. After finally going inside and learning more about it during our visit, we definitely left with a greater appreciation for Tokyo Tower.

Final Thoughts on Exploring the Tokyo Tower Area

This ended up being such a fun and easy area of Tokyo to explore, especially because there was such a nice mix of nature, history, modern architecture, and classic Tokyo Tower views. We visited peaceful temples and shrines, stopped by the NHK Broadcasting Museum, walked through the sleek and modern Toranomon Hills area, and finally went inside Tokyo Tower.

What we loved most about this area was how much variety there was without having to travel very far. You can see a quieter, more traditional side of Tokyo at places like Zojoji Temple and Atago Jinja, then walk a short distance and be surrounded by the polished, modern energy of Toranomon Hills.

Even though you could visit many of these spots in one day, we personally spread them out and enjoyed the area at a slower pace. That made it feel less rushed and gave us more time to take photos, stop for food, explore indoors when it rained, and appreciate the views of Tokyo Tower from different angles.

If you are planning to visit Tokyo Tower, we definitely recommend giving yourself extra time to explore the surrounding area instead of only going to the tower itself. There is so much to see nearby, and this route is a great way to experience both the nostalgic and modern sides of Tokyo.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you walk between Shiba Park, Zojoji Temple, Atago Jinja, Toranomon Hills, and Tokyo Tower?

  Yes. These spots are all close enough to connect as a walking route around the Tokyo Tower area. Depending on your pace, you can visit several in one day or spread them out like we did.

• Is Zojoji Temple inside Shiba Park?

  Zojoji Temple is best described as being right next to Shiba Park or in the Shiba Park area. The two are very close, making them easy to visit together.

• Is the Tokyo Tower Top Deck Tour worth it?

  We are glad we experienced it, but we actually enjoyed the Main Deck more. The Main Deck felt spacious, relaxed, and gave us plenty of room to enjoy the views.

• What else is there to do near Tokyo Tower besides the tower itself?

  The area has a nice mix of parks, history, shrines, museums, restaurants, and modern architecture.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

When planning our latest trip to Tokyo, we decided to stay somewhere different.

Over the years we've stayed in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, and several other popular areas. While we still love those neighborhoods, we wanted something a little quieter this time around.

That's what led us to Akasaka.

After spending three days exploring the area, we completely understood why more travelers are recommending it. Akasaka feels central and convenient, but without the overwhelming crowds you'll find in some of Tokyo's most famous districts.

If you're wondering whether Akasaka is worth visiting or staying in, here are our favorite things to do in Akasaka, Tokyo.

Why We Chose to Stay in Akasaka

One of the biggest reasons we picked Akasaka was its location.

It's easy to reach popular areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Omotesando, and Ginza, while still feeling noticeably calmer and less touristy.

You'll still see plenty of locals, office workers, and neighborhood cafes, which gave us a more authentic Tokyo experience than some of the busier areas we've stayed in recently.

One thing to know before booking your hotel: Akasaka has hills.

The name Akasaka roughly translates to "Red Hill," and you'll definitely notice the elevation changes while exploring the neighborhood. Fortunately, we found the hills manageable and never felt overwhelmed by them.

Where We Stayed in Akasaka

For this trip, we stayed at Mimaru Tokyo Akasaka.

The location worked perfectly for us because nearly everything we wanted to see was within walking distance.

The staff also provided excellent recommendations for local restaurants and cafes, which helped us discover several places we may have otherwise missed.

Map of Our Favorite Places in Akasaka

We spent three days exploring Akasaka and marked all of our favorite cafes, restaurants, shrines, and attractions on the map below. Many of these locations are within walking distance of each other, making Akasaka a great neighborhood to explore on foot.

This map pinpoints all the Akasaka locations listed in this post.

Best Cafes in Akasaka

Ueshima Coffee House

One challenge we often encounter in Japan is finding breakfast early in the morning.

Many cafes and restaurants don't open until 9:00 AM or later.

That's why we loved Ueshima Coffee House.

It opens at 6:30 AM and offers a full breakfast menu rather than just coffee and pastries.

Our breakfast sets included toast, eggs, mini salad, bacon, and coffee. It was the perfect way to start a day of exploring Tokyo. The seating was very cozy as well.

Bun Coffee

Located near our hotel, Bun Coffee is ideal if you're looking for a quick grab-and-go coffee.

The space is tiny, but the coffee was excellent and made for an easy stop before heading out for the day.

Tokyo Little House

This was one of our favorite discoveries in Akasaka.

Tokyo Little House is located inside a preserved historic home surrounded by modern buildings.

Part cafe, part museum, and part accommodation, it offers visitors a glimpse into Tokyo's past while serving excellent coffee.

Inside you'll find:

• Historical books

• Vintage displays

• Traditional architecture

• A unique atmosphere that feels completely different from the surrounding city

If you're looking for a memorable coffee experience in Akasaka, this is one of the best places to visit and the staff are extremely friendly here.

Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

This may have been the most beautiful cafe we visited during our stay. Filled with flowers and plants, the entire space feels like a greenhouse.

If you're looking for a relaxing place to enjoy breakfast, tea, or coffee, this cafe is worth adding to your itinerary. It’s also located conveniently next to Akasaka Station, making it a perfect, hassle‑free way to start your day if you’re planning to hop on a train.

Visit Hie Shrine

No trip to Akasaka would be complete without visiting Hie Shrine.

The shrine has become increasingly popular because of its beautiful red torii gates, which remind many visitors of Kyoto's famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

What we liked most about Hie Shrine is that it offers a similar experience without the overwhelming crowds. We did have to wait our turn to snap a few photos, but the line was thankfully very minimal.

You can:

• Walk through the red torii gates

• Take photos

• Explore the shrine grounds

• Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city

And if you're not in the mood to climb stairs, you'll be happy to know there's a convenient escalator that carries visitors up to the shrine. We actually really enjoyed this stretch of the walk. The sweeping views of the cityscape along the way were absolutely gorgeous.

Explore the Harry Potter Area

One of the biggest surprises in Akasaka was discovering how much Harry Potter-themed entertainment exists around Akasaka Station.

You don’t have to be a huge Harry Potter fan to find this fun themed area worth exploring. We thoroughly enjoyed wandering through this station every time we headed back to our hotel. If you’ve watched the movies, it’s a special spot where the entire neighborhood comes alive with the playful magic and atmosphere of Harry Potter. We enjoyed snapping photos and stepping into a whimsical Harry Potter style theme park (minus the theme park entrance fee, of course!).

Even if you're only a casual fan, it's worth checking out.

The area includes:

• Harry Potter displays

• Exclusive merchandise

• Photo opportunities

• The Harry Potter Store

• Theater attractions

The Harry Potter store recently reopened its doors and during our visit, many of the items featured seasonal cherry blossom designs that were exclusive to Japan. Of course, we fell for the adorable pink sakura-themed merch and bought a handful of items.

Visit Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin

This was one of our favorite discoveries during the trip. Unlike many shrines that emphasize traditional architecture, Toyokawa Inari is especially famous for its numerous fox statues. Scattered throughout the grounds are rows of fox figures, each bearing different symbolic meanings and subtle variations.

From the outside the shrine appears quite massive, but once we began exploring it revealed a surprisingly intimate atmosphere. Every time we turned a corner we stumbled across another visually interesting detail that made wandering the site feel endlessly rewarding.

Experience Traditional Japanese Sweets at Toraya

If we had to pick one place that surprised us most during our stay, it would be Toraya.

Toraya is one of Japan's most famous traditional confectionery brands, specializing in wagashi (Japanese sweets). The Toraya Akasaka flagship store is a modern architectural masterpiece designed by architect Hiroshi Naito, and it’s truly breathtaking. The clean lines, thoughtful use of materials, and serene atmosphere create a space that feels both contemporary and timeless.

We didn’t make a reservation for their tea room, so our chances of getting a table were uncertain, but because we visited on a rainy weekday, we actually got seated right away. When we were shown to our table, it felt like we’d been given a special VIP spot: a cozy, private dining area where we could relax and enjoy our meal in peace.

What we expected:

• A quick snack stop

What actually happened:

• We spent nearly three hours there

The experience includes:

• A tea room serving seasonal Japanese sweets

• A souvenir shop

• A free gallery detailing the company's history

During our visit, the cherry blossom themed sweets and matcha drinks were particularly popular. Crystal declared it the best damn iced matcha she has ever had in her life and that says a lot, because she’s a true matcha connoisseur.

After enjoying our delicate Japanese desserts, we wandered downstairs to the shop to pick up a few souvenirs. Everything is presented so beautifully and thoughtfully that it tempts you to buy almost everything. Our little sister chose a handful of sweet mementos, and because it was raining, the staff took extra care to wrap her paper bag in a protective plastic cover. Now that’s what we call truly top‑notch customer service.

Then we headed down one more flight of stairs to their gallery. And wow. The architecture down here was absolutely stunning. We had the entire place to ourselves and couldn’t believe this little gem wasn’t flooded with people. We learned quite a bit about the long history of Toraya and came away with a deeper appreciation for the craft and artistry behind traditional Japanese sweets.

Even if you aren’t a fan of traditional Japanese desserts (like Crystal), Toraya is still worth visiting for the cultural experience alone. The basement gallery’s interior space was fascinating in its own right, and the souvenir store added another layer of interest with detailed information and history about the ingredients used in their sweets and explanations of what makes them so unique.

Best Restaurants in Akasaka

Sumibiyaki Usagiya

This small underground yakitori restaurant ended up serving some of the best grilled chicken skewers we had during our trip. We stumbled upon it on a whim while searching for a place to eat near Toraya. We were starving and didn’t want to walk far, so the cozy, off-the-beaten-path spot felt like a perfect find.

The atmosphere feels wonderfully local, intimate, and genuinely authentic. We arrived just as they opened, so we practically had the whole place to ourselves for the first half hour or so.

Sometimes stepping into these underground izakaya can feel a little intimidating because they’re such authentic local spots, but we were pleasantly surprised to be warmly welcomed.

Just be aware that English support is limited here, so having a translation app ready can be really helpful. Fortunately, we all speak and read fluent Japanese, so we didn’t have any issues placing our orders. Many of the dishes we ordered were slightly omakase style, so it was often a pleasant mystery what we were going to be served.

Umaya

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Umaya is a beautifully renovated traditional three-story wooden house with charming details and a calm, inviting atmosphere. This was by far one of our favorite lunch spots during the trip. After a couple of unsatisfying lunches, we were really looking forward to a meal that we would genuinely enjoy.

We hadn’t made a reservation (which is recommended), so we went in with little hope of getting a table, but to our surprise we only had to wait about ten minutes. Maybe it’s the time of year or perhaps we were just lucky, but every place we feared we wouldn’t be able to get into turned out to be fine.

The restaurant is unique because it’s renowned for its association with a famous kabuki actor, a tidbit we discovered while waiting for our table.

The food served here is hearty Japanese comfort dishes, exactly the kind of meals we especially crave whenever we visit home. I (Candy) was so happy to see that they had tonjiru (pork and vegetable miso soup) on the menu. It’s one of my favorite comfort foods on chilly days and instantly felt like a warm, familiar hug.

Highlights include:

• Traditional Japanese interiors

• Tatami-style rooms

• Garden views

• Excellent set meals

• Private and high end feel without being stuffy

Nikujiru Gyoza no Dandadan

If you're craving gyoza, this is absolutely the place to go. We both LOVE gyoza and were so happy to stumble upon this charming little joint while walking back to our hotel. Before we found it by chance, we’d been in our hotel room searching the internet for gyoza spots and, oddly, this place never appeared in our results.

We’re so glad we got our gyoza fix here. They offered a wide variety of different gyoza dishes, each more tempting than the last. There was a bit of a line forming outside the entrance, but the wait was no more than ten minutes.

The restaurant felt lively and friendly, packed mostly with locals, which always feels like a good sign. The menu focuses on all things gyoza and beer, making it a relaxed, delicious choice for a casual meal after a day of sightseeing.

Is Akasaka Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

What we loved most about Akasaka was the balance.

It offers:

• Easy access to major Tokyo attractions

• Excellent restaurants

• Great coffee shops

• Cultural sites

• Fewer crowds

For travelers who want a more relaxed Tokyo experience while still staying central, Akasaka may be one of the best neighborhoods to consider.

More Tokyo Travel Guides

If you're planning a trip to Tokyo, you may also enjoy:

• Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

• Rain in Tokyo: What It's Really Like

• What to Wear in Japan in March

• What to Wear in Japan in April

• What to Wear in Japan in May

• Tokyo Spring Packing List

These guides are based on our real experiences traveling throughout Tokyo and Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How far is Akasaka from Tokyo?

  Akasaka is a district located directly in the center of Tokyo, about 2-2.5 miles southwest of Tokyo Station.

• Is Akasaka a good area to stay in Tokyo?

  Absolutely! Akasaka is an excellent practical base for exploring Tokyo. It offers a perfect blend of high-end dining, excellent public transit connections, and a calm, upscale atmosphere away from the overwhelming tourist crowds.

• What is Akasaka known for?

  To locals, Akasaka is Tokyo’s "grown-up playground." Tucked between the government hub of Nagatacho and the nightlife of Roppongi, it blends high-end dining and historic shrines with a sophisticated neighborhood feel.

• Is Akasaka and Asakusa the same?

  No. Akasaka is a more central location whereas Asakusa is further east. Akasaka is also more modern whereas Asakusa is more traditional Japan.

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