Haute on the Ranch: Can’t-miss Moments at the NFR

When you’re going to the World Series of rodeo in a city as iconic as Las Vegas, you know you’re in for a good time. This is one of those trips that will fill your phone’s photo album and encourage a generous amount of social media posts. 

There are so many things to do and see during the 10-day run of the National Finals Rodeo, it can be a little dizzying trying to fit everything into your Sin City schedule. In the final blog of the Savannah Sevens NFR Insider Series, we’re excited to highlight some of the standout experiences in which to build your trip around. These are the can’t-miss moments during the rodeo, at related events and around the city itself.

Up Close and Unforgettable

The NFR always brings the action. No matter where you sit at Thomas and Mack Center, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. However, the rodeo experience is completely different when you’re close to the dirt floor. We know these tickets aren’t cheap, but consider splurging and here’s how:

• The 4th-8th performances held on Sunday, Dec. 8 through Thursday, Dec. 12 provide more affordable lower level seat options. 
• Substitute a few nights at the rodeo for a hotel watch party instead. The funds you saved by viewing the action on a big screen will allow you to put them toward a ticket upgrade. 
• You can look for NFR tickets at Vegas.com, NFRexperience.com, unlvtickets.com or StubHub.

In the Winner’s Circle

Help celebrate each rider’s win by attending the Wrangler NFR Go Round Buckle Presentations at the South Point Hotel Showroom after the rodeo has concluded each night. If you have a favorite rodeo athlete, this is a great way to connect with them in a personal setting. You will get to hear directly from each winner as they’re interviewed on stage as well as meet their family members.

A Vegas Landmark

If you only treat yourself to one fancy dinner during your trip, make a reservation at The Golden Steer right now. Opened in 1958, this strip mall establishment is considered the oldest continually operating steakhouse in Las Vegas.

Dining at The Golden Steer is like stepping back in time to when the Rat Pack ruled the nightclubs and the mob ran the town. In fact, this restaurant was a hangout back in the day for both! 

You will be wowed by every aspect: from the vintage decor to the tux-wearing waiters to the incredible food. Known for their steaks, the Golden Steer also offers a tableside presentation of Caesar salad and cherries jubilee. And make sure you ask your server for a history lesson on the restaurant – you will be shocked by what they tell you! 

Live Music

Las Vegas is considered the Entertainment Capital of the World and the list of live music performances during the NFR helps it live up to its name. Is there anything better than rodeo and country music?

The NFR is attracting a magnitude of big names, up and comers, and long time music industry vets. Here are just a few of the concerts to consider taking in:

Chancey Williams – Dec. 5, 6, 7 & 8 at the South Point Showroom

The Red Clay Strays – Dec. 6 at the Brooklyn Bowl

Tyler Halverson – Dec. 7 at The International Bar at Westgate Las Vegas

Colter Wall – Dec. 8 at Dolby Live at Park MGM

Ryan Bingham – Dec. 8 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Aaron Watson – Dec. 9, 10 & 11 at the South Point Showroom

Corb Lund – Dec. 11 at The International Bar at Westgate Las Vegas

Cody Johnson – Dec. 12 at MGM Grand Garden Arena

Zach Top – Dec. 13 at the Brooklyn Bowl

Lainey Wilson – Dec. 14 at MGM Grand Garden Arena

*For a full line-up of performances, visit the NFR Experience website.

Need a quick reference of these can’t-miss NFR moments? Take a screenshot of this cheat sheet to save for later.