How to Turn Your WVC Vegas Trip Into an Extended Adventure
Because you deserve more than CE credits and casino coffee.
You’ve survived the lectures, nailed your wet lab skills, networked your heart out — and maybe even danced at a WVC afterparty or two. But before you pack up your scrubs and head home, here’s a thought: don’t.
You’re already in Las Vegas — the entertainment capital of the world. Why not turn your WVC Vegas trip into a mini vacation? With just a few extra days, you can swap your conference badge for sunglasses and experience the real Vegas (the one that doesn’t involve running from ballroom to ballroom).
Here are a few ways to make the most of your post-conference time:
1. Hit the Spa — You’ve Earned It
After days of sitting in lectures and lugging around swag bags, your back deserves more than an ibuprofen. Vegas has some of the most luxurious spas on the planet.
Try The Spa at Vdara for quiet, serene vibes, or Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace for Roman-style relaxation. Book a massage, take a nap, and call it “continuing education in self-care.”
2. Take a Day Trip Beyond the Strip
Need a break from neon? Rent a car and head out to explore:
Red Rock Canyon: Just 30 minutes away — perfect for hiking, photos, and pretending you’re in a nature documentary.
Hoover Dam & Lake Mead: History, engineering, and jaw-dropping views — all in one day.
Grand Canyon West: It’s a bit of a trek, but standing on that Skywalk is bucket-list material.
3. See the Shows You Were Too Tired to Catch During WVC
Let’s be honest — you meant to see a show during the conference, but CE exhaustion is real. Stay an extra night or two and catch one now!
“O” by Cirque du Soleil — the classic Vegas spectacle.
Absinthe — if you like your comedy a little wild and weird.
Adele or U2 (if you’re lucky enough to snag tickets).
4. Eat Like You Don’t Have an 8 a.m. Lecture Tomorrow
WVC week is usually all about convenience food and exhibit hall snacks. Make up for it with a proper meal (or three):
Brunch: Sadelle’s at the Bellagio — croissants, coffee, and views.
Dinner: Momofuku, Best Friend by Roy Choi, or Estiatorio Milos for fancy Mediterranean vibes.
Dessert: You’re in Vegas — dessert is its own food group. Milk Bar and Eataly are musts.
5. Explore “Non-Touristy” Vegas
Skip the slot machines for a taste of local life:
The Arts District: Trendy coffee shops, murals, and vintage finds.
Downtown Container Park: Cute shops and outdoor bars inside repurposed shipping containers.
Neon Museum: A dazzling walk through Vegas history — perfect for your post-conference photo dump.
6. Make It a Group Getaway
Chances are your vet school friends or coworkers are at WVC too. Why not plan to stay a day or two extra together? Split a suite, plan a spa day, or take a food tour. It’s cheaper (and way more fun) than going solo — plus, you’ll finally get quality time without talking about CE credits or vaccine protocols.
Final Thought:
You worked hard to be here — investing in your education, your career, and yourself. Take a few extra days to celebrate that. WVC Vegas is about learning, yes, but it’s also about living.
After all, what happens in Vegas… makes for great stories back at the clinic.
