Lilly Graves
There used to be a billboard on the expressway enteringLas Vegasfrom Los Angeles that felt ironic.
More people have beenmoving to the Las Vegas areafrom California for one major reason: taxes.
After spending a week here in summer 2022, my negative preconceived notions about living near Las Vegas shifted.
Credit:Lilly Graves
A Brief History
If youve never heard of Summerlin, you’re not alone.
Thats because its relatively new.
Modern Appeals
Lacking any significant history,Summerlinis proud of its newness.
Lilly Graves
First of all, its clean and organized.
The downtown has a tidy grid where cars drive slowly past manicured desert plants and silvery ash trees.
Towering palms line uncrowded boulevards, and there are built-in ponds and fountains to wander in person.
My husband and I made it a ritual to take long walks every morning before the heat kicked in.
A large manicured green space has a stage where concerts, movies, and events are frequently held.
One sushi restaurant beckoned on a hot summer day.
Lilly Graves
Like the community itself, Summerlins downtown is expanding each year.
After hearing the crowd cheering one night, I snatched a pair of the affordable tickets online.
First, though, it was time to explore the great outdoors.
Lilly Graves
Outdoor Pursuits
Summerlin might also be the best located area of Las Vegas forenjoying nature.
First, theres the community itself, with more than 150 parks and golf courses.
Residents are proud to say that nearly one-third of Summerlin is designated as open space.
When youre done riding, head to the all-day eatery calledCottonwood Stationfor lunch.
I was processing all that I had learned about Summerlin on our last night of the trip.
Trendy vendors served a mix of bratwursts, fish tacos, craft cocktails, and canned beer.
There was a sense of home.
