Wynn Las Vegas has captured the limelight by being a unique luxury resort, working way beyond the world of hospitality services. In tandem with the recent debut of its one-of-its-kind show Awakening, the resort is now investing in local artists to blend art and entertainment together and to foster emerging creative talents in a community-oriented environment.

The Show

The live performing art show Awakening by Wynn Las Vegas was set in a custom-designed 360o panoramic theater. The show offered a truly immersive experience, infusing futuristic technology, dramatic choreography, fantastic creatures, and a magical ambiance. The narration by stalwart actor Anthony Hopkins was another element of attraction. After this unique show, the resort is looking to bring artistic experience to the streets for common people with several amazing custom murals created by a group of uniquely talented artists.

The Statement

The CEO of Wynn Resorts, Craig Billings, said in an official statement that this new project aims to extend the creative influence of artistry beyond the walls of the theater. Inspired by Awakening and the power of artistic expression it has worked on, the Vegas resort has now commissioned several creative pieces of art from a talented group of artists coming from the community. According to Billings, with a hardcore commitment to art, letting amazing talents create wonderful beauty is what Wynn does best.

The Artworks

Oakland-based multidisciplinary artist Allison Torneros or popularly “Hueman,” specializes in what she refers to as ‘etherealism’, a gauzy artistic style. Her large-scale wall-scape mural, visually recreating the Awakening stage, is commissioned by Wynn Las Vegas for display in the SOMA neighborhood until 23rd January. Dubbed ‘multimedia powerhouse,’ artist Kentaro Yoshimura is appointed as a cultural ambassador for the coming Los Angeles Olympics. His work ‘Chiaroscuro’ is a highlighting feature on an L.A. building along the Santa Monica Freeway, and will also be under display by Wynn Las Vegas. Another artwork titled ‘IO,’ created by Phoenix-based graffiti artist Clyde is also on display in downtown Phoenix.

During the last decade, attendance to America’s national parks has literally doubled. And it’s about time! But while this is positive for local tourism, many hikers and travelers complain that their beloved spots are getting too crowded.

The good news is that statistically, most visitors never go further than one mile from their vehicles. This means that with an intrepid attitude and proper planning, you can easily find a secluded area that is hidden to the masses. Here are several spots that will enable you to avoid crowds and enjoy pristine wilderness.

Kolob Canyon Located in the northern parts of the Zion National Park, Kolob Canyon offers fabulous red rock formations and mind-blowing vistas. Reach the gorge via the scenic East Kolob Canyon Road and then choose the La Verkin Creek Trail for a memorable hike.

A Mountain Temple Like No Other

Hetch Hetchy Renowned Scottish-American naturalist John Muire once described Hetch Hetchy as “one of nature’s rarest and most precious mountain temples.” The valley lies in the northwestern quadrant of the Yosemite National Park and offers an astounding mountainous landscape that will leave you in awe.

Mineral King If you wish to enjoy majestic views of the Sierra Nevada Range, you must endure a one-hour drive down a rugged dirt road to Sequoia’s Mineral King area. Once there, apart from the amazing vista, you will also be able to choose from different hiking and backpacking options.

Few National Parks Offer Such a Hike

Sidewinder Canyon Situated at a short drive from Badwater Basin, Sidewinder Canyon offers a unique hiking opportunity to adventurers by having them squeeze, scramble, and shimmy through various rock formations.

East Inlet Trail The East Inlet Trail lies on the less-used, western side of the Rock Mountain National Park. The area offers mountain visits, waterfalls, wildlife, and as much solitude as your desire.

Now that you know more about these hidden spots in various U.S national parks, choose which one you are planning to visit first.