Howdy,
It's funny, you know, I have lived within driving distance of LV for 25 years and never went. I used to take long weekends in San Francisco or San Diego. But, since I frequently traveled alone, hotel costs were getting too much for long weekends. So, it occurred to me (duh) to see what Las Vegas had to offer. Wow - I never looked back.
I play video poker at, mostly, the Coast casinos, have one of the tutorial programs, get two free nights/month, and usually visit every other month. Love the outdoors and hiking in Red Rock Canyon has been fun in the cooler months, plus who'd a thunk of going to Las Vegas to play in the snow - yup, snowshoeing on Mt. Charleston in January if there is enough snow. Ferreting out the wonderful food to be found in LV at all prices has been an adventure, as well as the museums and art exhibits that have been as fulfiling in Las Vegas as in the other cities I have visited. My gambling is usually done in the early morning hours, 3-4 hours at a time and that's it for the day. If my trips break even, I am happy.
Viva Las Vegas!