Are you planning your first trip to Las Vegas? Sin City offers attractions, shows, roller coaster thrills, high-quality restaurants, and of course, gambling. Every tourist or visitor will find something to enjoy.
The top 10 things to do in Las Vegas are to visit the famous strip, Fremont Street, Fountains at the Bellagio, Mob Museum, ride the High Roller and Strat, visit Red Rock Canyons, Neon Museum, Cesar’s Palace, and see Cirque du Soleil.
You might also want to explore Las Vegas’s history while you are there or explore the shops and casinos. Whatever your preference, some attractions are world-class and cannot be missed. Read on to find out the top 10 things to do while in Vegas and what things you might want to avoid.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Las Vegas
What Can You Not Miss on the Las Vegas Strip?
On the famous Vegas Strip, you will find so many different things to experience. The Strip is a very walkable street that goes through the center of Las Vegas. Whether you fly through the Vegas airport or drive, you cannot miss seeing the long line of buildings.
If you are a morning person, you can get up early and walk the Strip. By walking on the strip in the morning, you will beat the crowd. Here are a few things you cannot miss while you are on the Vegas Strip.
- Bellagio Conservatory and Gardens: The Bellagio Hotel has employed a significant Horticulture and Engineering team who create large seasonal flower sculptures and attractions for visitors to see. Check the website for details about when the conservatory is open.
- Bellagio Fountains: The Bellagio hotel has iconic fountains featured in several movies, such as the Ocean’s 11 These fountains climb almost to the top of the hotel and are a spectacle to see in person.
- Gondola Ride at the Venetian: Why travel to Italy when you can ride a Gondola down an artificial canal at the Venetian?
- Walk the Strip at night: Enjoy the lights at night and be a part of the Strip’s nightlife. Stop and watch the street entertainers or walk into different casinos along the strip.
The strip has something for everyone. From viewing the Bellagio Fountains and Botanical Gardens to riding a Gondola at the Venetian, you can do it all. Do not underestimate the amount of walking you will do. You will need to pack those walking shoes.
The Top 10 Things To Do in Las Vegas
Are you looking for several different options to do while you are visiting Las Vegas? There is something for everyone. If you enjoy history, the city has a few top museums in the country. If you want shows and attractions, this is the city for you.
If you are more of a party-goer, rest during the day and go out at night and in the evening. Suppose you want to see the sights with family, visit the attractions during the day. Here are the top ten things to do in Las Vegas.
- Visit the Strip
- See Fremont Street
- Watch the Fountains at the Bellagio
- Visit the Mob Museum
- Take in the views at the High Roller Observation Ferris Wheel
- Ride the Big Shot
- Visit Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- See the Neon Museum
- Visit Cesar’s Palace and Casino Shops
- See a Cirque du Soleil show
With so many different options to choose from, it is no wonder this city is such a famous destination for people all over the world.
1. Visit the Strip
The 4.2 miles long Strip on Las Vegas Boulevard is iconic and known worldwide for its lights, shows, and attractions. It takes about 45 minutes to walk the entire strip without stopping. The Strip attractions cover both sides of the street.
The Strip offers excellent nightlife, attractions on every corner, and many people and things to see. There are shops in the Grand Canal, or you can walk to the Flamingo and see flamingos and exotic animals at the Wildlife Habitat.
If you are more of a museum and aquarium visitor, you can visit the Mandalay Bay Shark Reef to see all kinds of fish or Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage Hotel. The Bellagio Hotel has a fantastic art collection and museum to visit.
Plan out your walk, and rest assured that you will be amazed and entertained on your adventure through the Las Vegas Strip. You will come back to the strip more than once.
2. Fremont Street
Fremont Street has many more of the old town Las Vegas charm that might be missing on the Strip. This street is a five-block entertainment district with light shows and stage performances.
- Look up to see Viva Vision Screen: This is a giant television screen located on the ceiling. With 24/7 entertainment, what is not to enjoy?
- Walk around downtown: Take it all in and see one of the most historic areas of Las Vegas.
- Ride on SlotZilla: Climb up a 12-story tall slot-machine-shaped building and ride on the zip-line attraction.
This street’s hallmark is the Viva Vision screen, a 1,375-foot long screen located above your heads as you walk through the street. Appreciate the rich history of this area by soaking in the sights.
3. Fountains of Bellagio
The day show and the night show are two different experiences at the Bellagio Fountains. Beat the heat by walking to the Bellagio fountain dances’ viewing platforms and get sprayed by the iconic fountains.
If you are staying at nearby hotels like the Cosmo, you might be able to see the show through your room window. Make sure to put this attraction on your list of things to do because it will not disappoint.
4. Visit the Mob Museum
Do you like crime mysteries? You have to visit the Mob Museum, which is found in Downtown Las Vegas and has history, entertainment, mystery, and memorabilia.
With four different floors of exhibits, your journey will start at the birth of organized crime. You will find out what various crime organizations are still operating today and what law enforcement is doing to fight them.
5. High Roller Observation
Where do you think the world’s tallest observation wheel is? Well, of course, the answer is Las Vegas! Located in the heart of the Strip, you will spin around in a Ferris wheel with 360-degree views. It takes about 30 minutes to ride the High Roller.
- Take in the views: See the entire Strip, downtown Las Vegas, the Bellagio Fountains, canyons, and mountains.
- Happy “half” hour: Grab a drink inside one of the High Roller observation wheels with an open bar.
- VIP private cabin: Rent it with your friends or family.
- STEM family field trip guide: Download a self-guided tour that discusses the design, technology, science, and math that went into building this observation wheel and the city itself.
- Weddings: Get married inside the High Roller.
Go with family, loved ones, or friends to this unforgettable observation experience and take in the lovely views of the city. Do not forget to bring your camera.
6. Ride the Big Shot
Are you looking for a little more of a thrill ride? Walk to the Stratosphere Hotel, go up the stairs to the roof, and take a ride on the Big Shot, the Insanity, or the X-Scream.
- Big Shot: Get strapped in on the Big Shot and then get shot up into the air at 45 miles per hour while taking in the gorgeous views of Sin City.
- Insanity: Take a ride with nine other thrill-seekers on this mechanical arm that dangles you over the city. It lifts you and spins you around the city while sitting and looking straight down at the sidewalk below.
- X-Scream: Take a roller coaster ride that hangs over the edge of the building, which is about 866 feet above the ground.
These rides are for you if you are an adventure seeker and want to take in some of the beautiful views of Vegas. Get tickets at the Stratosphere Hotel for any or all of these rides.
7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Do you want to get away from the city and take in some of the area’s natural beauty? Look no further than Red Rock Canyon. It is located only a few miles west of Sin City and has something for every visitor.
You can drive along the 13-mile scenic highway and see the canyon through your car window, on your bike, or by stopping along the way. There are several observation deck views along this drive.
If you are more of a hiker, there are 26 hikes and trails to choose from different difficulty levels. These hikes will take you to high and low points of the canyon. You can also camp at the campground near the visitor center.
What to take a rock climbing adventure? There are different rock climbing routes you can take. Luckily, the website has some of the most popular areas to climb.
8. Neon Museum
Are you searching for the perfect Instagram photo? The Neon Museum provides excellent pictures during the day and at night. It is located in Downtown Las Vegas and has several forgotten signs along its outdoor boulevard.
This museum is reminiscent of a sign graveyard and has some of the most iconic and recognizable signs from old Las Vegas. From the Hard Rock Cafe guitar to the Stardust sign, make sure to put this museum on your list of attractions.
9. Visit Caesars Palace Casino and Shops
Caesars Palace is a quality hotel on the Strip. It has beautiful designer shops and popular restaurants. Whether you want to grab a bite to eat, window shop, or just take pictures, you will not be disappointed.
The hotel inside looks like a building copied from Milan, Italy, and placed in Vegas. Here are some of the restaurants and shops that you can visit:
- Planet Hollywood
- Sushi Roku
- Michael Kors
- Cartier
- Tiffany & Co
If you simply walk around Caesars Palace, you will find at least one thing to enjoy. Whether it is the architecture, the Italian marble, or the shops, make this hotel a destination.
If you are just looking for a place to stay, here are some of the best hotels in Las Vegas!
10. See the Cirque du Soleil Shows
There are quite a few different Cirque du Soleil shows in Vegas. These include:
- Mystere at Treasure Island
- KA at MGM Grand
- Michael Jackson ONE
- Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
- O at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino
- The Beatles LOVE at the Mirage
Whichever show you choose, make sure to take in the fun, excitement, and entertainment of a Cirque show. There are even some free viewings available to visitors at different times and days.
If you finish all ten things on this list and still have some time left in Las Vegas, here are more things you shouldn’t miss in Las Vegas!
What Can You Do in Vegas for Free?
Finding things to do for free in Las Vegas can be challenging. Still, there are several different options for every type of tourist.
- Visit the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign: Take an unforgettable photo in front of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign. It is found at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South and is a landmark welcoming sign for the city.
- Visit the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Walk past the fountains and inside the Bellagio to see the 14,000 square foot area with huge botanical sculptures and attractions.
- Go to the Coca-Cola Store in Las Vegas: Take a walk through the Coca-cola store where you do not have to purchase anything to be amused.
- Visit the Silverton Aquarium: Visit the Silverton Aquarium that has several views of different exotic fish to take in. It also has mermaids, stingrays, and sharks.
- Visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat: Take pictures of Chilean Flamingos, swans, turtles, ring-teal ducks, ibis, and koi fish.
- Watch the Erupting Volcano at the Mirage: Stand outside of the Mirage Hotel at night and get blasted with heat by the erupting volcano.
- Visit the Pawn Stars Pawn Shop: Are you a Pawn Stars fan? You can visit this iconic shop and take a photo in front of the sign. You will walk through and see several of the recognizable objects from the show. There may be some crowds, but you will not be disappointed.
What Should You Not Do in Vegas?
While there are things that you definitely should do while in Las Vegas, there are also some things you should not do. The Strip is a great place to visit but tourists can attract scammers or illegal vendors. Be smart, be aware, and be vigilant.
- Do not stay the night off the Strip: You can find an inexpensive hotel on the Strip. Straying off the strip might be dangerous for tourists new to the city. It is worth it to find an affordable room on the Strip, and with so many options, you cannot go wrong.
- Do not be a “typical tourist” and fall for money traps: The Strip has many unique attractions, but one thing that you cannot fall into is the tourist trap. Vendors trying to sell you things are usually scammers. Keep walking and do not engage.
- Do not use ATMs at the casinos: Hefty fees will accompany getting your money out of the casinos’ ATMs. Bring cash from home and keep track of how much cash you spend.
- Do not visit The Eiffel Tower: The views are not worth it, and there are so many other rooftop views that you can get of the strip that do not have obstructions.
- You will regret only seeing the Strip: While the Strip is the main attraction, visit downtown Las Vegas and other areas during the day.
Conclusion
Las Vegas has something for every tourist: shows, multiple attractions, unique museums, botanical gardens, shops, amazing views, and aquariums. Do your research, look at times when different places are open, and have fun exploring.
(Check out the best Airbnb experiences in Las Vegas to have the city and stay bundled together!)
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