Two days in Las Vegas – a weekend itinerary

Spending the weekend in Las Vegas? See the best of Sin City and experience all the highlights with our two-day sightseeing itinerary.

Published: July 18, 2024
Las Vegas Skyline

Spending a weekend in Las Vegas? See the best of Sin City and experience all the highlights with our two-day itinerary. Jam-packed with classic Vegas sights and attractions, this plan delivers a different slice of Vegas each day: you'll spend the first day exploring the old-school charm of Downtown and the second day focusing on the glitz and glamor of the Strip.

Your weekend itinerary includes:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus sightseeing tour
  • The 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign
  • The Mob Museum
  • Fremont Street
  • Stratosphere Observation Deck
  • Madame Tussauds
  • High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ
  • Helicopter night-ride over the Strip

📅 We’ve also got 4-day and 7-day Las Vegas itineraries, in case you happen to have a little more time on your hands.

Day 1: Downtown Las Vegas

Fremont Street casino in Las Vegas

  

Big Bus Las Vegas sightseeing tour

This Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is hands-down the best way to see all the top sights in Las Vegas in one comprehensive tour, particularly if you're a Sin City newbie. The bus's two routes travel to various points of interest along the Strip, Downtown and beyond. Along the way, you'll be regaled with entertaining and educational anecdotes about Las Vegas history, culture and landmarks.

Some highlights along the bus routes include the 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada' sign, the Golden Nugget casino and Fremont Street. Plus, you'll get to spot legendary hotels and super-casinos, Miracle Mile, the malls, museums, monuments and more along the way.

You can use the bus tour to get to the next stops on this itinerary, although be aware you'll be dealing with the same traffic as you would if driving yourself, so be sure you leave plenty of time to get from A to B.

The 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign

Use your pass on the Big Bus tour and ride out to the iconic 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada' sign.This historic sign serves as a relic of Las Vegas' neon sign history and was designed in 1959 by Betty Willis of the Western Neon Company. Photo ops and selfies here are gratis, but be aware you may have to jockey for position with other tourists who had the same idea as you.

Alternatively, leave the selfie stick at the hotel and book a pro photographer for snaps that are guaranteed to make your Insta pop. It's a great way to take your holiday pics up a level, and you'll find it included (along with the Big Bus tour and many other Las Vegas attractions in this guide) with a Las Vegas pass from Go City.

The Mob Museum

Mob Museum

Hop on and continue your ride to the last stop where you can switch routes and join the Downtown route. Pay attention to the layout of the Strip as you ride along the first section, you'll be exploring some of the sights you've spotted along this eye-popping boulevard tomorrow!

Once you're on the Downtown route, The Mob Museum stop drops you off right at the main entrance. Head inside for an interactive and entertaining account of Sin Citys's origin story: the Mob that built the city.

You'll learn about the notorious battle between the Mob and the law enforcement that sought to put a stop to their activities. Hear both sides of the story brought to life with multi-sensory, immersive exhibits and exclusive insights from some of the key players. Oh, and there's a secret speakeasy serving up Prohibition-era cocktails here too. Bottoms up!

Fremont Street walking Tour

Couple sightseeing in Downtown Las Vegas

Stroll over to Fremont Street, a five-block entertainment destination in historic Downtown Las Vegas that's lined with shops, famous hotels, old-school casinos and more. Join the Fremont Street walking tour to discover the storied background to this cool corner of the city. Look up to the ceiling to experience the Fremont Street Experience's Viva Vision, the world's largest video screen featuring free light shows and more.

If you're looking to eat dinner while you're here, downtown Las Vegas, particularly Fremont East, has become a bit of a foodie destination in the past few years, so there are plenty of options for just about any appetite.

Day 2: The Strip

The Stratosphere Observation Deck

The Tower at the STRAT

Head up the iconic Tower at the STRAT – the tallest freestanding observation deck in the United States – for 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip, the Valley and beyond – be sure to wave to the passing helicopters! You'll have access to both indoor and outdoor decks and the Stratosphere's viewfinders will help you identify landmarks across the city and beyond.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Don't skip the opportunity to work a few celebrity sightings into your Las Vegas itinerary, albeit these are very much of the wax varierty. Mosey over to Madame Tussauds for an entertaining interactive experience with celebrity selfie opportunities galore. Pose with Miley and her wrecking ball and schmooze with Gaga, Styles, the Hulk and more in this incredible rogues' gallery.

You can also relive a crazy Vegas night with Bradley Cooper, sing on stage for Simon Cowell, and fight crime alongside Nick Fury. Touching and interacting with the wax statues is encouraged, plus there are props that visitors can use for unforgettable (and really rather believable) photos.

High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ

High Roller Observation Wheel in Las Vegas

Go for an early afternoon spin on the High Roller, America's tallest observation wheel, at 550 feet above ground. The 30-minute ride promises stunning, 360-degree views of iconic sights along the Las Vegas Strip and beyond.

If you want to toast your trip to Vegas, grab a drink from the High Roller’s wheelhouse bar before boarding your observation pod, then head to the right-hand side of the observation cabin for the best views. When you're done with your ride, be sure to spend a little time exploring the LINQ shopping and entertainment district. It's a great place for souvenirs or lunch and Las Vegas pass holders get credit to spend at Favorite Bistro and Sweet Sin, as well as a chance to ride the Fly LINQ Zipline (ideally before rather than after you've scoffed all those wonderfully Wonka-esque Sweet Sin desserts).

Helicopter night ride over the Strip

Night view of the Las Vegas Strip

What better way to round out your Las Vegas weekend adventure than with a thrilling after-dark helicopter ride over the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip. The 15-minute experience, which also takes in parts of Downtown, is hands-down the best way to see the Bellagio Fountains, Eiffel Tower and Venetian waterways in all their glory.

Prefer to stick to terra firma? Your Las Vegas pass also includes entry to several of Sin City's biggest shows, from comedy and magic spectaculars to musical tributes and the death-defying acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil.

Want more tips on making the best of a trip to Las Vegas? Course you do! Find out which of the All-Inclusive and Explorer Las Vegas passes is right for you. And check out our favorite ways to spend a morning in Sin City.

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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Taking a selfie in Las Vegas
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Best Las Vegas Souvenirs

Vivaaaaa Las Vegas – so the song goes, a cheesy tune to match the cheesy lyrics. And chances are, reading that line conjured up images of flashing neon signs, feathers, roulette wheels and Elvis in his famous white jumpsuit. Well, you wouldn’t want to go to Vegas and not see all of that, right? Just as you wouldn’t want to go to Vegas and not come home with a tacky souvenir or two – although you’ll be pleased to learn that there are plenty of genuine, high-quality products around as well. Here are our best ideas for your Vegas souvenirs, ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous: Casino gambling chips No doubt you’re planning to have a bit of a flutter in Vegas, and whether that’s playing poker, roulette or slot machines, the sound of chips stacking and falling will become an indelible reminder of your Vegas holiday. Each casino has its own chips, ranging from $1 up to the thousands, and you are allowed to take them with you, so they make a good souvenir if you have some leftover (just keep in mind that they can expire, so maybe cash in any big ones!) Some casinos will let you buy a new one if you ask the cashier, or you can buy customized chips and other items like cards and dice from specialist stores like Spinetti’s. Chocolate Ok, we know it’s not Switzerland or Belgium, but chocoholics may just find their new favorite thing at Bellagio Patisserie, in the foyer of the Bellagio hotel. The café is famous for its treats and delicacies, but the crowds really come to see the world’s largest chocolate fountain, an ever-flowing cascade of milk, white and dark chocolate sending cocoa aromas permeating through the lobby. You can’t sample it, sadly, but you can take home a box of artisan chocolates or macarons. Whether you share them or not, we’ll leave up to you. Blue Man Group drumsticks The Blue Man Group is one of the endearing favorites of the Las Vegas line-up – their color-filled show combining paint and percussion has been delighting audiences in Vegas for more than twenty years. You can take home a great memento from the show – other than a splashed shirt, that is – by buying a set of Blue Man Group drumsticks before the show. Then if you hang around afterwards, the Group comes out to meet the audience and will sign the sticks if you ask them, so you’ll have the perfect personalized souvenir! A mini ‘Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas’ sign It’s one of the most iconic sights in the city and one that every visitor looks for when they first approach the strip – the dazzling, diamond-shaped ‘Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign. This double-backed, internally lit emblem has been there since 1959, with its red and yellow eight-pointed star, ‘welcome’ letters outlined in silver dollars and flashing yellow lights chasing each other around the outside. Visitors can take home their own mini version from any souvenir shop, in the form of a magnet, sticker, mugs, towels, flashing ornaments and just about anything else you can think of. A new spouse Don’t worry, we’re only joking – mostly. If you have been meaning to tie the knot, and you’re a fan of the King, then why not pop by the Graceland Chapel while you’re here? You might even be able to convince people to look at your holiday pics... On the other hand, you could just pick up a trinket from the gift shop – there’s mugs, keyrings, clothing, records and collectibles, instruments, snow globes and of course Elvis bobble heads. Or pick up an authentic Elvis suit – all your theme parties from now on will be sorted! Navajo turquoise jewelry We promised sublime, and this is it. Known as the ‘stone of life’ by the Navajo tribe of Nevada, turquoise has long been valued by local craftsmen as a unique and beautiful component of jewelry and talismans. When the art of silversmithing was introduced to the region around a hundred years ago these two elements were combined, with the result that Navajo silver and turquoise jewelry is some of the most prized in the world. And because varying levels of copper and aluminum deposits in the stones make each piece slightly different, your souvenir will be beautiful, local and totally unique. A podium prize If you’re traveling to Las Vegas with the family you’ll need to find something to do other than sitting in a casino all day – so how about a family go-karting day? At Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix there are four tracks to try out, from the Kiddie Kart track for the little ones up to the Euro High Speed Track for the speed demons in the family. There are also games and an arcade room, and at the end of the day winners can redeem their tokens for a prize of their choice to take home – bragging rights included of course! A group photo with a difference A group photo with a neon sign in the background is all well and good, but let’s face it, it’s not very exciting or interesting. On the other hand, if you’ve got some adrenalin junkies in the group, how about a photo in mid-air? Take a selfie from a ‘limousine of the sky’ on a Las Vegas Strip Helicopter Tour or, if you prefer to get physical, up to ten people at a time can ride the Fly LINQ Zipline, which is a 1,121-foot-long zipline over the streets and signs of the city to the High Roller Observation Wheel at the other end. Afterwards you can purchase a professional photograph of you and your group in mid-flight – a unique souvenir perfect for sticking on the fridge at home. Or if you prefer a video memento, how about a SkyJump from the top of the 108-floor STRAT building? Get more from your vacation with Go City Whether you’re after happy snaps, memorable experiences or just want to shop till you drop, Las Vegas has it all and more. Make sure you’ve got your Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass so you can save time and money while you’re busy enjoying yourself.
Karleen Stevens
people riding the big apple roller coaster
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The Tower at the STRAT vs Big Apple Roller Coaster: Which Is For You?

Las Vegas is jam-packed with entertainment, but when it comes to heart-pounding, can’t-stop-grinning attractions, two icons stand tall: The Tower at the STRAT and the Big Apple Roller Coaster. One takes you to dizzying heights, the other whips you through crazy twists and turns above the Strip. Both are beloved by thrill seekers—but which one fits your perfect Vegas day out best? We’re here to help you weigh up the wow-factor, fun quotient, and unforgettable moments each serves up. Whether you dream of soaking in panoramic city views or need to feel your stomach flip, we’ve got the inside scoop!  The lowdown  The Tower at the STRAT  Rising 1,149 feet above Las Vegas Boulevard—tallest freestanding observation tower in the USA.  Panoramic 360-degree views from both an indoor and outdoor observation deck.  Thrill rides perched at the very top: X-Scream, Insanity, and Big Shot.  Stylish SkyPod bar for cocktails with a view.  STRAT’s rotating Top of the World restaurant serves up fine dining far above the city lights.  Rooftop “Chapel in the Clouds” for spontaneous weddings with a Vegas twist.  Open daily, morning until late night.  Big Apple Roller Coaster  Swoops, loops, and drops through a replica New York skyline on the Strip.  Reaches up to 67 mph—with heart-thumping 203-foot drops.  The world’s first coaster with a 180-degree “heartline” twist and dive—unique sensations guaranteed!  Perfect for thrill seekers who want a classic amusement park ride Vegas-style.  Board your coaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino.  Arcade nearby for gaming, plus restaurants themed after New York City foods.  Open daily, day and evening.  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  If you’re measuring “impressive” by sheer size and wow-factor, The STRAT Tower nabs it. You’re hundreds of feet above everything else in Las Vegas—nothing else compares to that dizzying height. The architecture is sleek, the elevator up is a thrill on its own, and the combination of bars, dining, and daredevil rides in the clouds feels positively extravagant.  On the other hand, the Big Apple Roller Coaster brings a completely different type of wow moment. Instead of gazing down from lofty heights, you’re a part of the action—spiraling, looping, screaming, and laughing as you zoom above the city. That epic heartline twist is a first-of-its-kind feature and adds serious bragging rights to your Vegas résumé.  Which one is more fun?  The answer? Depends on your definition of fun and who’s in your group! The Tower at the STRAT can either offer high-octane rides or chill, laidback lounging with a view. It’s got more ways to cater for different levels of thrill—from relaxed sips at the bar to rides that put butterflies in your stomach.  The Big Apple Roller Coaster is all exhilaration, all the time. Bundled up with friends or family hooting next to you, it’s a pure adrenaline rush from start to finish—and the shared laughter afterward is half the fun. The whole environment is playful, from the arcade to the vibrant hotel scene.  Which is more beautiful?  For those jaw-dropping, photo-worthy vistas, The STRAT wins with its 360-degree views—no contest. You can see mountains at sunrise, the Strip shimmering at sunset, and Las Vegas glittering at night. It’s a constantly changing backdrop that delivers something new every moment, whether you’re inside the SkyPod or catching fresh air on the outdoor deck.  That said, the Big Apple Roller Coaster has undeniable visual pizzazz, especially when the city is lit up after dark. The vivid track winding among New York-style skyscrapers, neon everywhere, and the blur of coaster trains above the Strip score serious bonus points for eye candy.  Which has the better view?  Let’s call this a landslide for The Tower at the STRAT. When you’re standing hundreds of feet above the Strip, you don’t just get a view—you get a whole new perspective on Las Vegas. The day stretches out forever, the nights shimmer, and the sense of openness is unbeatable.  On the Big Apple Roller Coaster, views come in fast flashes as you zoom past facades and traffic below. It’s thrilling, but brief—you’re too busy screaming and laughing to focus on the scenery for long!  How do I get there?  The Tower at the STRAT  Catch the SDX or Deuce bus lines northbound along Las Vegas Boulevard—the stop at the STRAT is right outside. If you’re coming from downtown, the ride takes only 10–15 minutes. Rideshare and taxi drop-offs are easy, with dedicated arrivals at the casino entrance.  Big Apple Roller Coaster  Located at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, mid-Strip, it’s easily walkable from other big destinations like MGM Grand or the Excalibur. For public transport, both the Deuce and SDX buses stop nearby. If you’re staying further uptown or downtown, rideshare and taxi access is fast and convenient.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families:   Kids and teens may love the excitement of the Big Apple Roller Coaster—it’s straightforward, fast-paced, and pairs easily with an arcade visit. The STRAT’s rides are a little more intense (with higher height restrictions), but the observation deck is perfect for family selfies.  Couples:   The STRAT shines for couples, especially as the sun sets. Cocktail lounges with a view, fine dining, and the chance for a head-in-the-clouds moment way above the Strip’s bustle. That said, the giggle-inducing fun of the Big Apple Roller Coaster has a playful, date-night vibe too, especially if you pair it with an old school arcade challenge.  Friends:   Both spots are brilliant! Challenge each other to ride every STRAT thrill or turn the coaster into a who-can-scream-loudest contest. Either way, both attractions promise stories you’ll retell for years. The STRAT lends itself to big group selfies, shared flights on the rides, and celebratory toasts. The Big Apple Roller Coaster keeps energy high, perfect for friends looking for a good adrenaline rush and a few rounds of Skeeball or air hockey afterwards.  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?  The Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York-New York is practically made for families with active kids. Aside from the main event—the coaster itself—there’s a huge arcade packed with games your little (or not-so-little!) ones will love. Pinball, racing games, claw machines, basketball hoops: your family can jump from ride to game and back, burning off energy as they go. The roller coaster’s thrilling ride is open to kids 54” and taller, so check those height charts.  The STRAT, while known for its thrill rides, aims more at teens and adults with its ride lineup, which have higher height and age requirements (those rides are not for the faint of heart). But the observation deck offers plenty for curious minds—the telescopes, interactive displays, and ever-changing cityscape entertain everyone. Still, if it’s full-on hands-on action you want, the Big Apple Roller Coaster has the edge.  What’s the accessibility like?  The Tower at the STRAT: The STRAT does an excellent job of welcoming visitors of all abilities. High-speed elevators are spacious and accessible, and the main observation deck is wheelchair-friendly, with wide open spaces for easy navigating. Staff can assist with additional needs, and accessible bathrooms are provided throughout. The thrill rides may have restrictions, so it’s best to check ahead based on your specific requirements.  Big Apple Roller Coaster: New York-New York Hotel & Casino is entirely accessible, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and casino floor. Access to the roller coaster’s loading platform is via elevator. The coaster seats themselves do have size and mobility restrictions, so guests who require special accommodations may want to chat with staff in advance. The arcade, food court, and casino all keep things easy to navigate.  Best lunch spots nearby?  Near The Tower at the STRAT:  Top of the World Restaurant: You can’t beat the setting—rotating slowly as you dine, so your view changes with every bite. The menu is classic steak and seafood. The filet mignon melts in your mouth, and the lobster bisque is a regular favorite. The mood is elegant but unstuffy, and watching the city shift as you eat is a one-of-a-kind experience.  PT’s Wings & Sports: Downstairs at the STRAT, PT’s serves classic American pub fare in a casual, lively atmosphere. Try the loaded nachos or the namesake buffalo wings. Sports screens add energy, and the beer selection is solid and local-focused.  Tacotarian: A short walk away, this spot brings plant-based Mexican street food to the table. The birria tacos draw rave reviews (even from meat lovers), and it’s wallet-friendly with a funky, modern vibe.  Near Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Nine Fine Irishmen: Warm woods, friendly bartenders, and live music keep the mood upbeat in this faux Irish pub at New York-New York. The shepherd’s pie is a go-to, along with pints of Guinness and hearty fish and chips.  Shake Shack: Counter-service legend for burgers, crinkle fries, and thick shakes. The ‘Shroom Burger (stuffed with cheese!) and the black & white shake are fan favorites. Perfect for fast, tasty refueling before or after your ride.  Village Street Eateries: This indoor food market beneath the “Brooklyn Bridge” delivers crowd-pleasing New York standards: fresh bagels, thick pizza slices, snowy cannoli, and more. Grab-and-go seating makes it easy with kids or groups in tow.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  The Tower at the STRAT:  Outdoor Observation Deck: Hands down, this is the place for panoramic city shots—especially just after sunset when the Strip lights up. The desert mountains in the background add striking contrast to the city’s sparkle.  On the Rides: Secure your camera first! But if you have someone on the ground, catch reactions as friends plunge or spin miles above the Strip.  Inside the SkyPod: Wide windows give creative options for group selfies, reflection shots, or even time-lapses of the city as day turns to night.  Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Outside the Hotel: Snap the colorful coaster loop-de-looping in front of the faux Manhattan skyline for a scene that shouts “Vegas.”  On the Ride (Photo Booth): Cameras snap you mid-scream, so check the monitors after you de-board for hilarious (and possibly embarrassing) keepsakes.  Brooklyn Bridge Replica: Great spot for family or friends’ portraits—bonus points if a coaster car whizzes by in the background.  Timing tip: For both attractions, late afternoon offers gorgeous golden light, but the neon after dark gives shots extra Las Vegas dazzle.  We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?  The STRAT:  108 Drinks: Perched right by the observation deck, this bar serves creative cocktails and favorites like the fruity Sky High or the bitter citrus Vegas Strip. The vibe is casual but sophisticated, and you can toast your bravery while soaking up the view.  107 SkyLounge: A little more upscale, this spot is ideal for date night or a celebration. Try the signature Lavender Bliss with gin, lemon, and floral notes—it’s as beautiful as the view.  Budget option: On the casino level, REMIX Lounge offers classic drinks and happy hour specials in a relaxed, music-filled space.  Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Nine Fine Irishmen Bar: Irish whiskey fans, rejoice! Cozy ambiance, live music, and hearty pours await. Their Old Fashioned is robust and not too sweet, perfect for unwinding after a high-speed ride.  Bar at Times Square: Dueling pianos and a lively crowd create one of the best party bars on the Strip. Margaritas come in all flavors, and the “Big Apple Mule” (vodka, ginger, lime, topped with a gummy apple) is a must-try.  Budget option: Broadway Burger Bar has drink specials most afternoons—craft beer, frozen drinks, and quick, friendly service.  Any other good stuff nearby?  Around the STRAT:  Arts District Murals: Wander ten minutes south to explore colorful street art, quirky galleries, and local coffee shops. Don’t miss “The Painted Lady” mural for a truly Vegas photo!  Neon Museum: Under 5 minutes by car and totally worth it. See restored vintage neon signs and learn about Vegas history—especially magical at dusk when the signs light up.  Chapel of the Flowers: For the ultimate souvenir, elope Vegas style or just wander the grounds to watch the sometimes sweet, sometimes silly, sometimes spectacular weddings.  SkyJump Las Vegas: Feeling brave? Step off the STRAT (safely!) with a controlled 829-foot jump—an unforgettable leap for adrenaline chasers.  Near Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Hershey’s Chocolate World: Satisfy your sweet tooth at this two-story candy store, custom-mix your own chocolate bar, or pose next to a massive Statue of Liberty made entirely of chocolate.  The Park: A few steps away, this outdoor entertainment district is dotted with sculptures, water features, and shade. Grab a lemonade, listen to live music, or snap a picture in front of the massive Bliss Dance statue.  MGM Grand Lion Habitat: Learn about the resort’s original lion inhabitants and see displays about Las Vegas showbiz history. Free and fun for all ages.  Bellagio Fountains: Take a short stroll north for Vegas' best-known water show—dazzling at night, set to music and lights.  Both The Tower at the STRAT and the Big Apple Roller Coaster serve up adventure in distinct, unforgettable ways. The STRAT offers views and thrills from a height that makes the Strip seem like a toy town below. The Big Apple Roller Coaster races you through a theme-park take on New York, looping and twisting with genuine Vegas flair. Neither will leave you wanting for excitement.  With Go City®, these (and many more) unforgettable Las Vegas experiences are within reach—saving you money, skipping lines, and giving you total flexibility to experience your dream trip your way. Whether you’re after sky-high selfies, wild and woolly rides, or wild nights on the Strip, Go City® makes it a breeze. Explore, have fun, and see even more of Las Vegas, for less. Ready to go? Buy your Go City® pass and start your adventure!  Enjoyed this? Check out great mornings on the Strip, and the perfect 4 day Vegss itinerary. 

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