Fodor's Expert Review Ethel M Chocolates Factory and Cactus Garden

The M stands for Mars, the name of the family (headed by Ethel in the early days) that brings you Snickers, Milky Way, Three Musketeers, and M&M's. Come here for two special reasons: one, to watch the candy making, and two (more important), to taste free samples in the adjoining shop that was recently renovated. As for the other half of this place's name, yes, there is, indeed, a cactus garden—Nevada's largest—with more than 300 species of succulents and desert plants. It's at its peak during spring flowering but also takes on a holiday spirit when it's lit up during the Christmas, Easter, and Halloween seasons. The factory tour and gardens are free, but if you forget to go, Harry Reid International Airport features branches at all gates after airport security.