Beat the Heat! Stay Cool as the Summer Starts

Tips to Stay Cool During a Las Vegas Heat Wave

Las Vegas, renowned for its dazzling lights and bustling casinos, also boasts one of the hottest climates in the United States. During a heat wave, temperatures can soar well above 110°F (43°C), posing significant challenges to both residents and visitors. Staying cool in such extreme conditions requires a combination of smart planning, practical strategies, and an understanding of how to protect yourself from the oppressive heat. Here are some essential tips to help you stay cool and safe during a Las Vegas heat wave.


Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key. In extreme heat, your body loses fluids rapidly through sweat, and failing to replace these fluids can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. To combat this, make it a habit to drink water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8-10 glasses, and even more if you are active. Carry a refillable water bottle with you, and consider drinking electrolyte solutions if you're sweating heavily. Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as those containing caffeine and alcohol, as they increase urine output and exacerbate dehydration.


Wear Appropriate Clothing

Light, loose-fitting clothing is essential for staying cool in the heat. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that allow sweat to evaporate, providing a cooling effect. Loose clothing also promotes better air circulation around your body, enhancing cooling. Opt for light-colored clothes as they reflect, rather than absorb, the sun's rays, reducing heat absorption. Accessories like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can protect your face and eyes from direct sunlight, further helping you stay cool.


Seek Shade and Air Conditioning

Minimize exposure to direct sunlight by staying indoors during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When outdoors, seek shade as much as possible. Utilize air-conditioned environments like shopping malls, libraries, and cinemas to cool down. If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or air-conditioned spaces to allow your body to cool down. Public places with air conditioning can provide much-needed relief, especially if your home is not well-cooled.


Use Sunscreen

Protect your skin by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. UV rays from the sun can cause sunburn, which impairs your skin's ability to regulate temperature and can lead to dehydration. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating. Don't forget areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet, which are often overlooked.


Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely

Engage in outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Limit strenuous activities during peak heat hours to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. If you must exercise, do so in shaded areas or opt for indoor activities in air-conditioned spaces. Always listen to your body; if you start to feel dizzy, lightheaded, or excessively sweaty, take a break and hydrate.


Keep Your Living Space Cool

Optimize your home environment by using air conditioning, fans, and blackout curtains to keep your living space cool. If you don't have air conditioning, consider spending time in public places that do. Use fans strategically; placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan can create a cooling breeze. Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun, and open windows in the evening when temperatures drop to allow cooler air to circulate.


Eat Light and Stay Cool

Choose lighter meals that are easier to digest, such as salads and fruits. Heavy, hot meals can increase your body temperature. Additionally, enjoy cold treats like ice cream or popsicles to help lower your body temperature. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help keep you cool. Foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens, can aid in hydration and help maintain your body's cooling mechanisms.


Stay Informed

Monitor weather forecasts and heat advisories. Stay informed about the heat index and any warnings issued by local authorities. Knowing the forecast can help you plan your activities and stay safe. Many weather apps provide real-time updates and alerts for extreme weather conditions. Local news outlets also provide valuable information on cooling centers and emergency measures during heat waves.


Use Cooling Products

Explore cooling products such as cooling towels, misting fans, and portable air conditioners. These can provide instant relief from the heat. Cooling towels can be soaked in water and placed around your neck or wrists to lower your body temperature. Misting fans can provide a refreshing spray of water, and portable air conditioners can be used to cool specific areas in your home. Carry a spray bottle filled with water to mist your face and neck when you feel overheated.


Look Out for Vulnerable Individuals

Check on the elderly, children, and pets, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Ensure they are staying cool and hydrated. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures can rise dangerously high within minutes. Make sure they have access to plenty of water and a cool environment. Elderly individuals may not sense heat changes as quickly and can be at greater risk, so check on them regularly and help them stay cool.


Recognizing Heat-Related Illnesses

Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If you or someone else exhibits these symptoms, move to a cooler place, drink water, and rest. Heat stroke is more severe, with symptoms such as high body temperature, confusion, rapid pulse, and possible unconsciousness. Seek immediate medical attention if heat stroke is suspected. It's crucial to act quickly, as heat stroke can cause permanent damage or even be fatal.


Battling the heat in Las Vegas during a heat wave requires vigilance and proactive measures. By staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, seeking shade, and using air conditioning, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with extreme heat. Stay cool, stay informed, and take care of yourself and those around you to enjoy all that Las Vegas has to offer, even in the height of summer.

Las Vegas Ranked #9 for Diverse Food Scenes in the U.S.

September 8, 2025
When people think of food diversity in America, their minds usually go straight to New York City. But according to a recent study highlighted by the esteemed culinary school, Escoffier, the Big Apple doesn’t take the top spot. Instead, San Francisco claimed first place — praised for its bustling variety of cuisines and holding the title for the highest density of restaurants per capita among major U.S. cities. What’s even more exciting for us locals? Las Vegas earned the #9 spot on the list of the most diverse food cities in the country. Why Vegas Stands Out Las Vegas may be known worldwide for its neon lights and entertainment, but the dining scene is what keeps both tourists and residents hungry for more. From celebrity chef–driven restaurants on the Strip to hidden neighborhood gems serving authentic global flavors, Vegas has transformed into a true culinary destination. While seven of the top 10 cities named in the study were coastal (a trend Escoffier notes is tied to cultural diversity and a robust restaurant scene), Las Vegas proves that you don’t have to sit on the coast to experience world-class variety. Our city thrives on international influence — with dining options that range from Korean barbecue and Italian trattorias to Thai street food, upscale steakhouses, and plant-based fine dining. A Foodie Destination on the Rise Being ranked in the top 10 isn’t just a nod to the Strip’s luxury restaurants, but also to the everyday spots that locals love. With new eateries opening regularly, the Vegas dining scene continues to evolve and surprise. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, Las Vegas offers something for every craving — proving once again that this city is more than just an entertainment capital. It’s a place where cultures, flavors, and creativity come together to make the dining experience as dynamic as the city itself.

The Power of Gratitude in Building Strong Business Relationships

September 3, 2025
In business, one truth always stands out: no one succeeds alone. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a large organization, your success is built on the connections you make. And one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to strengthen those relationships is through gratitude. At McKenna Property Management, we’ve made gratitude a core part of our culture from the very beginning. Our owner and broker, Jenni McKenna, personally hand-delivers gifts to some of our VIP agents every single month . While it may sound like a small gesture, it makes a big difference. These thoughtful touches show our VIP Agents how much we value their trust in us, collaboration, and hard work. But it’s not just about the gifts. Gratitude comes in many forms—thank-you cards, handwritten notes, or even a quick phone call to say “we appreciate you.” What matters most is the consistency and authenticity behind the gesture. Over the years, these small acts of appreciation have helped us build trust, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships that go beyond a simple business transaction. By showing genuine appreciation, we’ve created strong bonds with clients and agents alike, and those connections have allowed McKenna Property Management to grow into what it is today. If you’re a business owner or professional, here’s our tip: make gratitude part of your business strategy. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—even the simplest “thank you” can strengthen relationships and open the door to new opportunities. At the end of the day, business isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. And people remember how you make them feel. 💙

4 Days in Las Vegas – A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Trip

August 19, 2025
Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. As locals, we know how to balance the must-see attractions with spots that many visitors miss. This four-day itinerary blends the energy of the Strip with the character of the neighborhoods beyond it, giving you a true taste of what Vegas has to offer. Day 1 – The Main Event: Everything Happening on the Strip Morning: Start with brunch at Alexxa’s in Paris Las Vegas , where the drinks come in disco balls and the atmosphere is upscale, modern, and trendy. Every Saturday and Sunday, a live DJ keeps the vibe upbeat while you enjoy brunch from 7:00 AM to 2:45 PM . Afternoon: Stroll through the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens , an ever-changing floral masterpiece perfect for photos (and a break from the casino floor). Each season the gardens transform into a different showcase of sights, sounds, scents and colors. The conservatory team changes out the design, and replant and repurpose as much of the living plant material as possible. Evening: Dinner at Din Tai Fung inside ARIA. If you’ve never tried their famous dumplings, you’re in for a treat — and yes, the chocolate xiao long bao is as good as it sounds. Night: Dance the night away at Omnia Nightclub in Caesars Palace, or if clubbing isn’t your thing, see one of the incredible Cirque du Soleil shows on the Strip! Some of our team members recommended KÀ, or Mystère. Although Absinthe is not a Cirque du Soleil production, it is another great recommendation! This one is unapologetically raunchy and hilarious- and it is for ages 18+. More show recommendations can be found at the end of this blog! Day 2 – The Arts District Morning: Grab brunch at Makers & Finders , a lively Latin café with killer coffee and a creative menu. Afternoon: Spend time exploring the Arts District’s unique shops like Alt Rebel , Spilled Milk , and Antique Alley Mall . If shopping isn’t your scene, dive into something spooky different with Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum . And if you’re not into scary, check out the end of this blog for more exhibits/museums in Las Vegas! Evening: Dinner at Esther’s Kitchen , where fresh, handmade pasta and sourdough steal the show. Night: Head to Atomic Golf where you can explore four floors of immersive golf games, bars, food and private event spaces! Day 3 – Immersive Fun At Area 15 Morning: Start with breakfast at The Peppermill , a retro Vegas staple known for its huge portions and vintage diner vibe. Afternoon: Spend the day at AREA15 , where you can wander through the mind-bending Omega Mart , explore the Illuminarium , check out Wink World , and so much more. Evening: Dinner at Block 16 Urban Food Hall in The Cosmopolitan — a foodie paradise with everything from Momofuku to Ghost Donkey . Nightcap: End your evening with a glamorous cocktail or mocktail at The Chandelier Bar inside The Cosmopolitan. Day 4 – Vegas Local + Tourist Combo Morning: Breakfast at The Broken Yolk Café . A favorite amongst Vegas Locals with multiple locations throughout the valley! They serve up an amazing breakfast with unique drinks. Afternoon: Choose between hiking the Historic Railroad Trail (Lake Mead views!) or exploring the stunning Red Rock Canyon . You can hike Red Rock, or drive through and enjoy the scenery. Evening: Step into old-school Vegas with dinner at Capo’s Restaurant & Speakeasy . Night: Ride the High Roller observation wheel for breathtaking views, then grab a frosty cocktail at Minus5 Ice Bar to cap off your trip. Local Pro Tips Do not swim in the Beach Club pools — just trust us on this one. Avoid ATM fees in casinos by bringing cash ahead of time. Characters on the Strip aren’t free — they’ll ask for tips after photos. Don’t limit yourself to the Strip — Vegas has amazing off-Strip attractions. Escape rooms here are great! Try Escapology at Town Square or PanIQ Room at The Venetian. Bring comfortable walking shoes — distances on the Strip are deceiving. October is the best month for weather. Additional Show Recommendations: A Vegas Golden Knights Game A Raider’s Game ANYTHING at the Sphere (Postcards from Earth, The Backstreet Boys, Eagles, etc.) The Atomic Saloon Show inside the Venetian RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! At The Flamingo Las Vegas Exhibits/Museums to check out: The Bodies Exhibit The Titanic Exhibit The Neon Museum Madame Tussauds Mob Museum This 4-day plan mixes the best of the Strip with local treasures, so you’ll leave Vegas feeling like you’ve truly experienced it — not just skimmed the surface.