Whitney - Las Vegas, NV

Whitney grew in response to the population and business boom in Las Vegas in the first half of the 20th century, but was nearly lost by the late 1980s due to a dwindling population shifting to Henderson and Las Vegas itself. The year 2000 and beyond saw the little six-square-mile town regain its footing, however, and it stands as an unincorporated town in its own right again, as of 2014. Unusual arts and culture stops near town include the Pinball Museum on Tropicana Avenue and the Marjorie Barrick Museum on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas college campus.

As a part of the Las Vegas “scene,” Whitney residents enjoy living a stone’s throw away from world class dining, celebrity chef restaurants and rocking clubs on the glittering neon stage of the infamous Vegas strip. The big casinos have buffets laden with almost every calorie-packed treat imaginable, but can be a little claustrophobic, especially if a convention or show is in town. If local establishments are more your style, however, there are plenty of options closer to Whitney.

Vegas just isn't Vegas without some top-shelf indulgences, and Sushi Twister fits the bill for an enviable experience for those who love Japanese cuisine. Whitney residents regularly celebrate special occasions at this highly-rated all-you-can-eat sushi joint, and those in the know ask for a little extra mango sauce – the restaurant’s secret for amazing taste – on the side of their rolls. Be aware that your seat comes with a time limit, though - you get 45 minutes to chow down.

Getting your party on can be difficult in tourist-packed venues, so those in the know head to places such as the Whitney Peak Hotel to take in a show at Cargo, the hotel’s musical venue, or enjoy dinner at the Roundabout Grill. This popular hotel restaurant serves everything from spaghetti squash to New York strip.

Whitney, as a part of Las Vegas, holds the status of a “car town,” so strapping on sneakers isn’t advised. Thankfully, a wealth of taxis and for-hire driving services balance out the lack of walking and biking options. These include companies such as Uber and Vegas-centric taxi services that are willing to pick up outside the strip. Smartphone applications or a quick call remains your best way to secure a cab in Whitney, as the town lacks the constant curbside flow of cabs found in Las Vegas proper. As the town sits right on Boulder Highway and only a short jaunt to Interstate 95, it’s fairly convenient to get around in your own vehicle as well.

In Las Vegas itself, options such as the Las Vegas Monorail and the “Deuce” bus gives visitors affordable options for zooming from one casino to another. Both transportation methods offer unlimited day passes to keep you on the move, and eliminate downtime in your errands or fun schedule.

Residents of Whitney easily get a morning run or an afternoon stroll in at the Whitney Mesa Recreation Area over in Henderson. Exciting amenities such as BMX biking areas, basketball courts and an archery range, set this park apart from ho-hum sprawling lawns typically associated with a day at the park, though fido has to stay at home – the park isn’t dog-friendly. The nearby Whitney Recreation Center has a community pool for those looking to beat the heat. The two parks sit directly adjacent to one another, so a day of free fun comes as simple as a quick walk or car ride between them.

If you’re considering a move to Whitney, the town comes in at just under 12 percent less than the rest of the country in cost of living. Taxis, the most common form of as-needed public transportation, runs you between $15 and $20 to Las Vegas, depending on your origin and destination. Once you get to the more populated areas of Vegas, options such as the Deuce bus system stretch your range and your dollar favorably. Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment sits at $629.04. Gas remains about 0.5 percent higher than the national average, but the wealth of available taxi services helps mitigate that bump. A beer costs you between $4 and $6, though numerous drink specials can be found on the strip if you venture into town.

A mall-like experience awaits shoppers as close as nearby Henderson, where The Galleria hosts stores ranging from department-sized chains such as Dillard's to smaller specialty stores, such as Abercrombie and Fitch. If you’re in search of a more intimate shopping experience, label-hounds flock to the Refinery Resale, a local secret chock-full of exciting finds, such as second-hand Jimmy Choos and Western Wear, for those that have a flair for the unique. The Country Fresh Farmer’s Market gives Whitney residents a one-stop-shop for healthy goodies every Thursday, year round.

For groceries, Von’s, Winco and Wal-Mart stand as the go-to spots for stocking the pantry and fridge, and those that miss the earthly bounty of the farmer’s market can hit up Whole Foods in nearby Henderson for organic fruits, vegetables and other healthy options.