Exorcise and exhilarate…How about going for a nice drive…at 135 mph around one of the world’s great super speedways? At the Mario Andretti Racing School, you can suit up, buckle down and drive a real 600hp, Indy-style race car for six heart-pounding laps around the Las Vegas Speedway track. Or ride along as a passenger in an instructor car. (Info: 1-877-ANDRETTI)
At the other end of the spectrum, breathe out rage, breathe in peace with a yoga class. Blue Sky Yoga, located in the Arts Factory, offers a dozen different types of classes on a donation only basis – pay what you can when you can. (702-592-1396)
Explore Beyond the Glitter…
Less than a 30-minute drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers peace and awe amid glorious scenery. 3000-foot-high rock formations in every shade of red-gold-orange-rust-brown-cream take you out of the city and out of yourself. Hike the canyon, climb the rocks, or drive the 13-mile loop trail. Overnight camping is available. (Info: 702-515-5350)
On the way back to town, stop at Cactus Joe’s Blue Diamond Nursery. Wander the paths and shop among more than 15,000 cactus plants, plus lovely things for the garden. No garden? Pick up a chunk of Guatemalan slag glass to set on a windowsill to catch the light. (Info: 702-875-1968).
Step Back into the World and Exhale…
The Vegas arts scene is cooking and the absolutely best way to savor it is at “First Friday,” a monthly festival that’s basically a big block party in the downtown arts neighborhood. Gallery exhibits, live music, street theater, local food and drink all conspire to celebrate the arts in vibrant Vegas style. One recent event featured free beer and clogging lessons. A special city bus runs to all First Friday venues. It’s a great place to meet old friends and make new ones. (Info and schedules: www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org)
And now that you’ve emerged from the nest, dress up the new you with some flashy new feathers…literally. Stop by Rainbow Feather Company for every size, shape and color of feather you could imagine, from a sassy boa to a flippant feather fan like the leggy showgirls down on the Strip use. They’ll really class up your act. (1036 S. Main; 702-598-0988).
