I was trying to find things to do with my mom that didn't involve shopping, slot machines or gastronomy in Las Vegas. As much as I enjoy a bargain purchase at the outlets, a shot at Megabucks and a decadent dessert, sometimes laid back, free fun is the way to go.
Then came the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden. We came here during the holidays (December) and the cactus garden is lit up brilliantly. This is no sophisticated lighting and it's not exactly majestic like we're so used to in Vegas. But the night was delightful. The multicolored lights over the cacti and the blow up Christmas decor was pleasing. Walking around, watching little kids getting excited by the simplest of pleasures and spending time with friends and family with a backdrop of multicolored lights and nature was quite therapeutic.
Of course, the experience is compounded to the Ethel M factory and store. Where free chocolate discs are provided, ice cream can be bought for your pleasure and there's a whole M&M store with funky M&M related items.
All in all, a fun experience for a low-key holiday night.