Michael Sartain, a dynamic entertainment personality and performance coach, found his groove in Las Vegas in 2011, and it’s fair to say he found his home in the city. After serving in the Air Force and spending years honing his communication and leadership skills through event hosting, coaching, and navigating high-stakes environments, Michael quickly immersed himself in the Las Vegas lifestyle. Known for his engaging personality and extensive connections in entertainment, he has built a reputation as someone who truly understands the pulse of Las Vegas. Over the years, he’s become a trusted figure in both the entertainment and hospitality scenes. Michael is also one of Real Vegas Magazine’s 2024 Most Magnificent Men in Las Vegas!
Curious about where Michael spends his free time? Here’s a list of his top Las Vegas spots! From places he frequents for everything from indulging in a one-of-a-kind dessert to soaking up natural beauty just outside the city.
1. Area 15
Michael loves immersing himself in something unique, which is why Area 15 tops his list. Located just off the Strip, this sprawling entertainment hub is an explosion of art, technology, and creativity. It’s where Las Vegas dials up the bizarre, and Michael is all about it.
One of Michael’s favorite things about Area 15 is its unpredictability. You might start your night browsing the strange yet captivating Omega Mart—a trippy art installation that masquerades as a grocery store—and end it at a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city. Michael loves the blend of high-energy activities with a laid-back vibe, making Area 15 a perfect spot to unwind and explore something different every time.
2. Mastro’s Ocean Club
For Michael, Mastro’s means butter cake. Tucked inside CityCenter, Mastro’s Ocean Club is known for its upscale, modern ambiance, attracting both locals and visitors looking for a high-end dining experience. While the menu is packed with impressive seafood and steak options, Michael’s visits are all about the butter cake—the star of the menu. It’s a treat he makes time for, no matter how busy his schedule gets.
Michael enjoys the upscale yet welcoming atmosphere of Mastro’s. It’s where he heads when he wants to savor a top-notch meal, usually following up a busy day. Whether he’s seated at a candlelit table for a quiet night or in the lively bar area catching up with friends, he never skips the butter cake.
3. The Nerd Bar
When Michael’s in the mood for something casual and quirky, The Nerd Bar is his spot. Located in Neonopolis, The Nerd Bar is a fusion of gaming, comics, and cocktails. For someone like Michael, who loves connecting with people in fun, laid-back settings, The Nerd Bar checks all the boxes. It offers an alternative to the typical Vegas nightclub scene, with a unique atmosphere that blends arcade games, pop culture, and private karaoke rooms.
Michael appreciates that The Nerd Bar isn’t pretentious. It’s a place where you can shoot a game of pool, belt out a few songs in a private karaoke room, or just geek out over the comic book decor. The bar regularly hosts themed events, so Michael knows there’s always something different going on.
4. Red Rock Canyon
(Photo courtesy of Michael W. Rogers Photography)
Las Vegas is known for its 24/7 nightlife, but Michael Sartain often seeks balance by heading outdoors to Red Rock Canyon. Just about a 20-minute drive to 1000 Scenic Loop Dr from the Strip, Red Rock offers a complete change of pace with its towering red cliffs, winding hiking trails, and peaceful desert views. For someone as busy as Michael, Red Rock Canyon is a welcome retreat.
He often escapes to Red Rock to unplug and enjoy some much-needed quiet time. The vast desert landscape, combined with the serene beauty of the canyon, offers a much-needed breather from the fast-paced Vegas life. It’s a side of Las Vegas that not everyone knows, but Michael loves how it offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling Strip.
5. Rollin Smoke BBQ
When it’s time to grab a meal, Michael heads over to Rollin Smoke BBQ, a hidden gem located at 3185 S Highland D. Known for its hearty, slow-cooked meats and no-frills atmosphere, Rollin Smoke is Michael’s top choice for comfort food. The menu is packed with BBQ classics like smoked ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, paired with all the traditional sides like mac ‘n’ cheese and baked beans.
Michael loves that Rollin Smoke offers a down-to-earth, authentic experience without the glitz of a typical Vegas restaurant. It’s a place where you can roll up your sleeves, dig into some seriously good BBQ, and not worry about anything else.
Michael Sartain’s favorite Las Vegas spots tell the story of someone who has truly embraced the city in all its forms. From the eclectic and futuristic Area 15 to the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, Michael’s picks highlight his appreciation for the unique and the unexpected. If you’re looking for a quirky hangout, a top-notch meal, or a quick escape into nature, Michael’s favorite spots offer a bit of everything that makes Las Vegas special.
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