Vegas Vacation

Vegas Vacation

Year: 1997

Runtime: 93 min

Language: English

Director: Stephen Kessler

Comedy

The Griswold family heads to Las Vegas for a vacation filled with misadventures. Clark hopes to win enough money to secure his company's bonus, but his blackjack skills prove disastrous. Ellen develops an unexpected infatuation with entertainer Wayne Newton, while Rusty's gambling gets out of hand. Audrey encounters some questionable characters, and the family struggles to stay afloat amidst the glitz and chaos of the city. Can they salvage their trip and find their way back together?

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Vegas Vacation (1997)

Trace every key event in Vegas Vacation (1997) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Clark's Bonus

Clark Griswold receives a generous bonus from his boss, Frank Shirley. This reward motivates him to plan an extravagant family vacation to Las Vegas, aiming to strengthen family bonds.

2

Family Excitement

The Griswold family reacts with mixed emotions to Clark's vacation plans. While Ellen and Audrey feel less enthusiastic about Las Vegas, Rusty's excitement stands out as he eagerly anticipates the vibrant city.

3

Arrival in Las Vegas

The Griswold family arrives in Las Vegas, surrounded by the city's bright lights and electric energy. Their adventure begins with the promise of unforgettable experiences and memories.

Las Vegas
4

Siegfried & Roy Performance

The family attends a dazzling performance by the famous duo, Siegfried & Roy. This spectacle captivates them, showcasing the unique entertainment Las Vegas has to offer.

Las Vegas
5

Reunion with Cousin Eddie

During their stay, they reconnect with Cousin Eddie and his family. Eddie's peculiar lifestyle, living in a place once used for hydrogen-bomb tests, adds an odd yet humorous touch to their trip.

Eddie's home, north of Las Vegas
6

Hoover Dam Tour

While on a guided tour of the iconic Hoover Dam, Clark inadvertently causes a minor leak. This mishap leads to a comedic adventure as he tries to reunite with his family while climbing the dam's scaffolding.

Hoover Dam
7

Wayne Newton Concert Tickets

The family receives surprise tickets to a Wayne Newton concert, along with a beautiful dress for Ellen. Excited, they attend, where Wayne's amusing interaction with Ellen reveals a special connection.

Las Vegas
8

A Day Apart

The family decides to spend a day apart, exploring their individual interests. Clark dives into gambling, while Rusty uses a fake ID to enjoy the scene, and Audrey explores the nightlife with Eddie's daughter.

Las Vegas
9

Clark's Gambling Escapades

As Clark becomes more immersed in gambling, his family grows frustrated with his behavior. Their hopes begin to dwindle as Rusty stumbles upon a fortunate win at the slots, only adding to the chaos.

Las Vegas
10

Fortune Altercation

Amidst Clark's gambling troubles, he and Eddie devise a plan to win back their losses. However, their attempts are hindered by Clark's addiction, resulting in misery for both families.

Las Vegas
11

Finding Unity

Realizing the importance of family over fortune, Clark orchestrates a reunion with his family. They come together for one last gamble, pooling their funds for a game of keno.

Las Vegas
12

The Mysterious Old Man

During their final game, an elderly man provides unexpected encouragement. After he wins, he abruptly slips into unconsciousness, leaving behind an enigmatic message for Clark.

Las Vegas
13

Change of Fortune

After the old man's passing, the Griswolds learn that they hold the winning keno ticket. Despite the tragedy, their fortunes shift, bringing relief and gratitude amid their distress.

Las Vegas
14

Reaffirming Vows

In a heartwarming moment, Clark and Ellen reaffirm their wedding vows. This ceremony serves to remind them of their commitment, surrounded by Eddie's family in a joyous celebration.

Las Vegas
15

Departure in Style

As they prepare to return home, the Griswolds leave Las Vegas in an extravagant fashion. Rusty's luck leads to them driving away in a collection of four luxurious cars, symbolizing their wild adventure.

Las Vegas

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 17:32

Unlock the Full Story of Vegas Vacation

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Vegas Vacation Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Vegas Vacation, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Vegas Vacation Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Vegas Vacation

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Vegas Vacation. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Vegas Vacation

More About Vegas Vacation

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