Bob,

I went to Vegas a few years ago and was amazed at how much was in close proximity. My wife was going to a conference and I was doing stuff during the days. I never did Valley of Fire, but it did look good. But one day, I dropped my wife off at 8 am, drove to Death Valley and was back to pick her up at 5 pm. But Zion NP is 2.5 hrs away, Furnance Creek Ranch and Badwater (lowest point) in Death Valley are both ~2 hrs away, then Red Rocks and Hoover Dam are both 30-40 minutes away. I day tripped all four while my wife was at her conference. Granted, I would love more time at Zion, Death Valley and Red Rocks, but I've seen them.

BTW, I am not much of a gambler either (only powerball when it is over $300 mil), but, if you've never been, the shows, strip (Bellagio, etc) and a few buffets (Paris) are impressive.

Have a good trip and Merry Christmas,
Brant