It's exactly what its name implies -- a tropical oasis set smack-dab in the middle of the desert. Since 1989 the Mirage has made a name for itself as a top-notch Vegas resort with all the trimmings of a South Sea paradise. From the moment guests step foot on the grounds of the Mirage, the sights and sounds of the tropics await with lush greenery, waterfalls, lagoons and Polynesian decor. And no island oasis is complete without an erupting volcano; each night the Mirage Volcano spits fire every 15 minutes.

All this for a mere $630 million. There are also casinos, 3 spas, 2 tropical pools, fancy accommodations and loads of good eats. So step off the Strip for a moment and lose yourself in an island paradise tucked away in the desert.

Main Attraction: The Mirage Volcano, which stands 50 feet high on a 3-acre lagoon and shoots fire 40 feet into the air every 15 minutes.
Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners and any other folks seeking a little romance
Dining Options: Where to begin? With 6 specialty restaurants and 7 casual eateries, no one will go hungry here. For a high-class evening, dine at Renoir (restaurant recipient of Mobil's 5-Star and AAA's 5 Diamond Awards), where award-winning chef Alessandro Stratta serves up contemporary French dishes amid a dining room filled with works by the restaurant's namesake, Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
Accommodations: 3,044 rooms and suites, 6 lanai bungalows with private garden and pool, and 8 private houses with either 2 or 3 bedrooms. Renovated in March, 2002, each room feels more residential and sophisticated.
Fascinating Fact: There is a 20,000-gallon saltwater fish tank behind the main desk where 90 species of tropical fish swim about.
Claim to Fame: Siegfried and Roy first performed here in 1989.
Entertainment Options: Aside from the current headlining act, there are 3 lounges throughout the resort for those who can't sit long enough to watch an entire performance.
Activities: Explore the 2 islands and deep grottos in the pool area, invigorate the mind and body at the Spa and Salon at The Mirage, shop the designer boutiques along the Street of Shops, and visit the Siegfried & Roy Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.
Casino Stats: The Mirage has more than 100,000 square feet to throw your money around in.