Category: Local Activities

Beyond the Strip: Discovering Hidden Gems for Luxury Living in Las Vegas

Jun 3, 2023
6 min read

The Las Vegas Strip is known throughout the world for being one of the best places on earth to immerse yourself in the lap of luxury. While the tourists flock to the casinos, top-rated restaurants, and famous entertainment venues they’ve seen in the movies, homeowners in the area prefer to go off the beaten path. 

There’s no doubt that visiting the Strip is part of enjoying living in such close proximity to some of the most unique venues in the country, but you’ll also find that moving beyond the tightly packed streets gives you a chance to enjoy the city from an entirely new angle. Exploring these hidden gems for luxury living in Las Vegas gives you a new appreciation for why you chose to invest in luxury homes in Henderson, NV.

Check Out These Hidden Attractions

Elevate Your Lifestyle by Joining the DragonRidge Country Club

Investing in MacDonald Highlands real estate comes with the benefit of being eligible to join the local country club. As soon as you move into your new neighborhood, you’ll quickly realize that the country club is the centerpiece of MacDonald Highlands, and it’s easy to see why. Joining the country club gives you access to some of the most hidden gems in the area, and being able to enjoy them all with your local neighbors makes it easier to relax and enjoy your luxury lifestyle. 

Here are just a few of the amenities available at the country club for those who make building a custom home in Las Vegas their first step towards luxury living. Read on Why Las Vegas is a Prime Destination for Luxury Real Estate here.

DragonRidge Country Club

 •18-hole championship golf course

 •Five championship tennis courts

 •Full-service spa and fitness center

 •On-site restaurants and bars

 •State-of-the-art clubhouse and event center

Go Hiking Through the Red Rock Canyon

DragonRidge Country Club

As much as you might feel like staying in the DragonRidge Country Club, it’s always good to enjoy some exploring off of your neighborhood grounds. After filling up on a delicious and hearty weekend brunch at the Dragon Grille, you’ll be ready to lace up your hiking boots and enjoy a gorgeous hike through the Red Rock Canyon.

Seeing the beauty of the Mojave Desert up close as you hike through the red rock-lined trails is an experience that you might just turn into a regular event. You can always hike on your own, which is perfect for experienced hikers. Or, you can take a hiking tour that allows you to enjoy a trek with a guide who can share insights on the local wildlife, plants, and history of the area during your two to three hour hike through a desert landscape. 

Enjoy an Emerald Cove Kayak Tour

DragonRidge Country Club

If an aquatic scene is more your idea of luxury living, then you also don’t have to go far to enjoy a private little paradise that is less than an hour from the Strip. Emerald Cove is known for being a tranquil oasis that transports people away from the constant buzz of their busy lifestyles. 

The half-day tour through Emerald Cove is kept to a few paddlers, giving the trip an intimate feel. Being with a smaller group allows you to explore the Colorado River unrushed as you paddle your way to the serene Emerald Cave. During the tour, your guide will provide your group with stops for swimming and snacks while keeping everyone safe and comfortable as you enjoy the trip. 

While the tour offers hotel pickups, you’ll be able to skip the shared transport by driving yourself directly to the Willow Beach Marina from the luxury homes in Henderson, NV. Living closer to the beautiful water also means that you can take this trip anytime you feel the need to get away from city life for a short staycation.

Visit a Real Life Speakeasy

Having access to the ONYX bar in DragonRidge Country Club gives you a familiar place to go when you want to connect with your neighbors. But it’s also fun to have a few drinks somewhere unique every now and then. A visit to the Underground Speakeasy feels like stepping back in time, and the Prohibition-era-themed pub even requires you to provide a top-secret password to gain entrance.

Don’t worry; you can quickly find the weekly password on the bar’s website, and it’s easily located under the Mob Museum. Once you’re in, you can enjoy sipping on authentic moonshine from the in-house distillery as you imagine what it would have been like to live back when such indulgences were forbidden.

While living out your love for the 1920s is fun all on its own, you’ll also enjoy knowing that this is one hidden gem that often gets overlooked by tourists who get distracted by all of the neon lights that line the Strip. You can also tack on a visit to the Mob Museum to give yourself a truly immersive experience.

Snap the Ultimate Scenic Photo at the Valley of Fire State Park

 Sure, the Dragon Ridge landmark serves as a perfect backdrop to your lifestyle as you live among the luxury homes in Las Vegas. In fact, you probably already have the rock formation in more than a few of your favorite photographs of you golfing and enjoying special events with your family.

DragonRidge Country Club

You can never have enough amazing photos to share on social media, and you won’t have to look far to find the perfect scenic backdrop when you visit the Valley of Fire State Park. As someone who has made the MacDonald Highlands area their home, you likely have a deep appreciation for the natural rock formations abundant in the Valley of Fire.

Here, you can enjoy trekking through natural rock formations and views that invite you to stop and appreciate the finer things in life. You’ll also discover petroglyphs and even a lost city museum that you’ll always remember as you scroll through your favorite pictures of your trip.

Feel an Adrenaline Rush With Exotic Car Racing

Even if you own a Lamborghini or Porsche, you might not have ever been able to feel the rush of driving one of these beasts to their maximum capacity. At the Exotic Car Racetrack, you’ll enjoy having open space to drive your favorite supercars with no speed limits. You can even take advantage of the opportunity to receive one-on-one coaching that provides you with the skills you need to feel the power within the world’s top luxury cars.

When you have an appreciation for the finer things in life, your first instinct might be to stay off the Strip, where the neon lights and mainstream venues tend to draw large crowds. Living in MacDonald Highlands gives you private access to restaurants, golfing, and other amenities that truly exude luxury. You can discover this hidden gem in Las Vegas by calling us at 702-614-9100 to check out our DragonRidge Country Club, or you can browse online for home listings that put you close to some of the best-hidden attractions in the Henderson, NV, area.

DragonRidge Country Club

Things to Do in Henderson Nevada

Aug 14, 2022
7 min read

Henderson is the second biggest city in Nevada. And it’s located only 20 minutes from Las Vegas, and it features a number of unique attractions. There are many houses for sale in Henderson, NV, which means that you’ll be able to live where you play. Here are the top things to do in Henderson. 

 1.    DragonRidge Country Club 

The DragonRidge Country Club is home to one of the country’s top golf courses. Jay Moorish and David Druzisky developed the course to welcome beginning golfers and challenge those at the top of their golf game. Each hole gives you a view of the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. You’ll also enjoy views of the area’s pretty vistas while playing a round. 

The MacDonald Ranch Country Club includes a full-service fitness center, one with five tennis courts, a basketball court, a beach volleyball court, a store, and a café where you can order Starbucks coffee. There’s plenty to do at the DragonRidge Country Club. 

 2.    Ethel M Chocolate Factory 

new homes for sale henderson

When you’re looking for a unique experience, book a chocolate tasting at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory. During the tasting, you’ll get to try different types of chocolate, and a guide will direct you on how to get the most from your tasting. You can combine the chocolate tasting with a wine tasting. That way, you’ll have the chance to enjoy two indulgences simultaneously. 

A chocolate tasting will help you figure out your favorite type of chocolate. After the tour, you can head to the gift shop to purchase a box or bag of your favorites. There is also a stunning cacti garden on site. Stroll through the garden to see many different types of cactuses. 

 3.    The District at Green Valley Ranch 

The District at Green Valley Ranch is a short drive from downtown Henderson and offers an extensive combination of entertainment, shopping, and evening activities. At the District, you’ll enjoy wandering through different boutiques and name-brand stores. 

The District is ideal for retail therapy. It also features unique places to eat, which means that you can spend an entire afternoon there. The District hosts a Stroller Strides program and an Outdoor Picture Show for kids. When you go, be sure to stop by the weekly farmer’s market, and you’ll appreciate its proximity to MacDonald Highlands. 

 4.    Clark County Heritage Museum 

new homes for sale henderson

The Clark County Heritage Museum introduces patrons to southern Nevada’s history, culture and heritage. Located on 30 acres of land and toward the lower section of Henderson, the museum features several historic buildings from when the area’s first settlers arrived during the early 1900s. 

You can tour the whitewashed Candlelight Wedding Chapel at the Clark County Heritage Museum. The chapel was initially constructed on the Las Vegas Strip, where it hosted countless spontaneous weddings. A crew rebuilt the chapel at the museum. While visiting the museum, you can tour the classic Beckley House of 1912 and see several antique locomotives. 

 5.    Lion Habitat Ranch 

The Lion Habitat Ranch is located on the corner of Bruner Avenue and Bermuda Road and provides housing for lions and other types of animals. The ranch started more than 25 years ago, and it works to inform patrons about its animal residents. 

The ranch assists the Conservation International organization in Kenya, and it works to protect African lions in their natural environment. 

At the ranch, you can view around 50 different lions. Many of the animals were saved from unsafe conditions. The ranch also hosts a feeding program that lets you feed the lions and the facility’s giraffes. 

 6.    Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve 

Located on East Galleria Drive, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve is a great place to view some of the region’s desert birds. The preserve is a 140-acre space that is home to local birds and those that are migrating. 

The preserve includes nine ponds with paths around them, making it easy to view the birds. If you go, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a hat. Also, apply sunscreen, bring water, and use binoculars for the best experience. 

 7.    Big Horn Wild West Tours 

new homes for sale henderson

Big Horn Wild West Tours provides tours to different Nevada destinations. You can travel to the Joshua Tree Forest, the Grand Canyon, and the Mohave Desert with the tour group. The company’s tours are small, so it’s the perfect way to visit these iconic places and receive more information about them. 

If you have the time, consider booking the company’s most popular tour to the Grand Canyon. It takes about 10 hours, but you’ll get to see Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam, and the Joshua Tree Forest while traveling to the Grand Canyon. Once you reach the Grand Canyon, you’ll have the opportunity to visit with the people of the Hualapai Nation, which will be an unforgettable experience. 

 8.    Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area 

Las Vegas is famous for its noise and glitz, but there are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore nearby. The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is an incredible one, and it features the kind of spectacular geography that will thrill you. 

While touring the conservation area, you’ll have the chance to see weathered ochre rocks covered with petroglyphs and soaring ridges that dip into a deep gorge. The conservation’s gorge is nicknamed the Sistine Chapel of Nevada because of its varied ancient rock art. Head down the Dutchman Pass trail to view the best rock art. 

 9.    M Resort Casino 

If you want to spend an evening gambling but would rather avoid the busyness of the Strip, then give the M Resort Casino a try. Featuring the same combination of games as the casinos on the Strip, you’ll be able to play poker, blackjack, and slot machines. 

While spending time at the casino, you can also enjoy tasty cuisine from several onsite restaurants and bars. You can even make a weekend of it by booking a room at the casino. 

 10.    Mustang Helicopter Tour 

Mustang Helicopters will take you over the Grand Canyon, giving you a unique view of this incredible landmark. The company has been in business for more than 19 years, and it prides itself on offering guests a safe excursion and quality customer service. 

The tour company will pick you up. Then, you’ll receive a narrated tour while flying in the helicopter. You can choose the Spirit Tour, which will take you over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead before flying to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Once you reach the canyon, you’ll have time to enjoy a glass of champagne and a few snacks. This is sure to be a memorable experience. 

New Homes for Sale Henderson 

MacDonald Highlands is a great place to live in Henderson, Nevada. With views of the stunning Las Vegas Strip and scenic natural landscapes, you’ll love owning a home in the MacDonald Highlands community. The neighborhood features plenty of amenities ranging from dog parks to hiking trails. If you decide to move your family to the area, you’ll also enjoy great schools in Henderson, NV. When you live in Vegas, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy. For more information, contact us at (702) 614-9100.

Things To Do in Vegas in the Winter

Jan 20, 2022
7 min read

People flock to Las Vegas during the spring and summer months to worship the sun, attend their favorite musician’s concert and go to festivals, but the destination is also great in the winter months. Here are nine things to do in Vegas in the winter. 

1.    Tour Exhibits and Museums 

When the cooler months arrive in Vegas, the outside temperatures are usually pleasant, with a rainy day here and there. Even when the weather is a bit fussy, there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself indoors in the city. For instance, head downtown to tour the Mob Museum. At the museum, you’ll learn how organized crime built Las Vegas, as well as the interesting and violent history of the American mobs. 

There are two Bodies of exhibits in Vegas, one at the Luxor and the other at Bally’s. These intriguing exhibits feature real bodies that have been uniquely preserved to show you the intricacies of the human body. You’ll be able to see how the muscles, bones, and tendons of the body let people perform various activities. 

If you love history, then be sure to visit the Neon Museum. This outdoor museum displays the history of the city’s unusual signage and its culture. It is a tour that you can take during the day or at night. If you go on the evening tour, you’ll get to see some of the signs lit up in all their neon glory. 

The city’s museums and exhibits are diverse, informative, and unique. You’re sure to find one or two that will keep you entertained. 

2.    Spend a Day at the Container Park 

Downtown’s Container Park is an open-air shopping area and a dining mecca. The park is located in an area that features an industrial design. Entertainment opportunities include an interactive playground for your kids and a stage area that features free concerts and shows. With more than 40 repurposed shipping containers, you’ll love wandering around searching for unique finds and tasty cuisine. 

3.    Golf at the Dragon Ridge Country Club 

Golf memberships in Las Vegas will keep you busy year-round since there are a number of courses throughout the area. Dragon Ridge is an 18-hole championship course that measures 6,975 yards. Perfect for novice players as well as the best golf players in the world, everyone will love playing the course with its view of the celebrated Las Vegas Strip, pretty water features, and natural mountain ranges. The Dragon Ridge Golf Course has hosted top charity golf tournaments. Not only will Dragon Ridge challenge you, but it will also inspire you with its beautiful sights. 

4.    Wander Through the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio 

The casinos in Las Vegas work hard to attract people from all over the world to their properties. They do this by bringing in interesting exhibits, top entertainment, and building their own unique displays. The Bellagio decided to tempt travelers to its property by constructing a conservatory and botanical gardens, which is something you’re sure to enjoy as well. 

The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens transform into two extraordinary displays during the winter. The first display is a happy holiday attraction that transitions the garden into an incredible winter wonderland, one that’s sure to put you in a celebratory mood. The second display is available from January 12 to March 2, and it is an exceptional Chinese New Year spectacle that presents the celebration. 

5.    Explore the Great Outdoors 

The cooler months are a pleasant time to explore nature in the Las Vegas area. Outdoor activities include: 

 •    Hiking 

 •    Kayaking 

 •    Biking 

Go for scenic hikes in the Red Rock Canyon, Lee Canyon, and the Valley of Fire. If you prefer water activities, take a kayak tour on Lake Mead. You can also go for a bike ride in Bootleg Canyon. 

For a Vegas-style outdoor experience, visit Seven Magic Mountains. Located about 10 miles from the city, this unique site features colorful rock formations that fit in perfectly with the city’s culture. Ugo Rondinone, a swiss artist, decided to put his spin on the human experience outside in the desert. The rock formations are yellow, pink, orange, and green, making them the perfect backdrop for your social media pages. 

6.    Drinking and Dining 

Las Vegas has turned into a great place for drinking and dining. The city features award-winning restaurants and incredible bars that will thrill your tastebuds and quench your thirst. In Vegas, you’ll find happy hour bargains and drinks that bars measure by the yard. 

For dining, you can savor a tasty steak dinner, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, and chow down on street tacos. You can also easily satisfy your sweet tooth at French bakeries, ice cream parlors, and cafes that serve yummy pie. 

7.    Take Advantage of Spa Treatments 

Since Las Vegas is known for indulgence, you have access to several top spas. These range from classic spas to one-of-a-kind options. Book an appointment for a simple pedicure or spoil yourself with an entire day of pampering. The Mandarin Oriental spa offers guests a relaxing oasis that embraces Eastern philosophies, while the Encore spa has 51 lavish treatment rooms and services. Going to a spa in the winter will revitalize you, moisturize your skin and allow you to reset mentally for the week ahead. 

8.    Go to a Show 

Winter is a great time to take in a famous Las Vegas show. A variety of shows are performed daily, which means that you’ll be able to buy tickets to one that appeals to you. The availability of Las Vegas shows is one of the city’s most unique features, and they range from family-friendly offerings to more risqué ones. 

At a show, you’ll have the chance to watch some of the world’s most talented entertainers while in a venue that is warm and dry. If you want to participate in an interactive show experience, head to Fremont Street. 

9.    Enjoy the City’s Sights 

Las Vegas is a gorgeous city year-round, and if you haven’t slowed down to appreciate the sights lately, then be sure to do it during the winter months. While the MacDonald Highlands community is situated above the city to offer residents a pretty view at any time, taking a trip on The High Roller or visiting the Stratosphere Observation Decks will give you a different view. 

At the Stratosphere, you’ll have a choice of an indoor or outdoor observation deck. There are also places to grab a drink or a meal. If it is too chilly on the outdoor deck, stay indoors and enjoy the views in a nice warm area. The High Roller is a giant, slow-moving Ferris Wheel. It features enclosed pods that lift you 550 feet over the Strip. The ride lasts about 30 minutes. 

Play Where You Live 

The MacDonald Highlands community is a luxurious place to call home, one that makes it easy to play where you live. When you decide to move into the community, you can choose to build your own custom dream home or purchase one that is move-in ready. Along with superb homes, the neighborhood features the MacDonald Highlands country club, fitness center, and restaurants. To learn more, contact us today at (702) 614-9100.

5 Ways to Have a Relaxing Staycation

May 31, 2020
2 min read
Luxury homes in Henderson NV

Staycations are a great way to relax and have fun, especially during this time. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy a unique vacation at home. Luxury homes in Henderson NV make staying at home even easier. Here are five ways to have a relaxing staycation.

 1. Prepare a Lavish Picnic 

 Grab a charming basket and your best gingham blanket. Then, pack up tasty finger foods like two or three kinds of cheese, crackers, fruits, and several bite-size pastries. Be sure to bring wine or your favorite sparkling cider and head to the backyard for an at-home picnic. If it’s just you and your beloved, then bring a book of poetry and take turns reciting it to one another. If your kids will be joining you, then set up a croquet or badminton game to play after eating. 

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Why Nature Enthusiasts Decide to Call Nevada Home. Top 5 Breathtaking Views Near Vegas

Apr 7, 2020
2 min read

Las Vegas may seem like just a big city oasis surrounded by desert terrain, but Sin City has much more to offer. Not only is Vegas the perfect place to begin a scenic road trip, but it is also a city that lets you enjoy the great outdoors. Here’s why nature enthusiasts decide to call Nevada home. These are the top five breathtaking views near Las Vegas.

1. Hoover Dam

Be sure to visit the Hoover Dam if you want to see a fantastic view of the area’s outdoor landscapes. The structure is 700 feet tall, and it is one of the modern world’s most amazing marvels. At the Hoover Dam, you’ll view the cement structure, which is breathtaking. The other side of the dam features pretty rock formations and the Colorado River.

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Six Great Outdoor Activities to Enjoy Around Las Vegas

Feb 26, 2020
2 min read

Las Vegas is a city that will keep you busy. Not only does it feature plenty of indoor venues and activities, but there’s also a lot of outdoor fun available. Here are six great outdoor activities to enjoy around Las Vegas.

  1. DragonRidge Golf Course 

The DragonRidge Golf Course is in the fine MacDonald Highlands community. It’s an 18-hole course that features gorgeous sights and plenty of challenges. It incorporates the surrounding desert landscape and overlooks downtown Las Vegas. The course features large greens and wide fairways. It also provides a practice facility and a short game area where you can perfect your golfing skills. After a game, you can spend time at the DragonRidge country club, a facility that includes restaurants, a pool, and a hot tub.

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Reasons Las Vegas is Perfect for Winter Snowbirds

Feb 19, 2020
2 min read

Winter snowbirds know how to live. They purchase a second home in a place with comfortable year-round temperatures and enjoy warm weather throughout the year. Las Vegas is ideal for this since the city’s winter temperatures range from the high 50s in January to the mid-60s in February. However, the city gets toasty in the summer, so if you don’t like the heat, then keeping another home in a place that doesn’t get so hot is a good move. Here are a few other reasons why Las Vegas is perfect for winter snowbirds.

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MacDonald Highlands is a Perfect Las Vegas Home Community

May 30, 2018
5 min read

Las Vegas is the home of entertainment and activities in the country, but outside of the long stretch of The Strip lies luxury home communities for the locals to live the glitz and glamorous style of our city. Long gone are the days where the luxury homes were right next to Las Vegas Blvd, as locals are tending to head towards the mountains to call home. MacDonald Highlands is one of the premier luxury home communities in Las Vegas and offer one of the best views of the city skyline.

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These Fashion Tips for the Golf Course Are Hole-in-Ones

Nov 27, 2017
3 min read

You have to look your best when you are visiting a world-renowned golf course, and that means keeping up with the latest trends in golf attire. These fashion tips for the golf course will keep you looking chic while you strike a good drive on the ball.

Are you new to golfing but don’t want to look like it? We’ll help you choose the right golf attire so you enjoy your first time. People will look up to your fashion sense when you approach the course.

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Staying Close: 5 Nearby Summer Getaways

Jun 2, 2017
3 min read

Summer vacations away from Vegas can be stressful. You have to decide the best days to fly out to your destination and hope that you don’t end up with delayed flights. Avoid the waiting time at the airport, and plan a summer getaway near Las Vegas. There are so many nearby Las Vegas getaways that can transport you to a new place without having to travel far.

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