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Las Vegas   Travel Guide

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29 Essential Things to Do in Las Vegas (+ Easy Day Trips)

Throughout its 118-year history, Las Vegas has been known as the planet's premier destination for gambling – and for good reason. This desert metropolis has more places to try your hand with Lady Luck than any other city in the world. But Sin

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Walk the Strip Walk the Strip free

Once you pass the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign along Las Vegas Boulevard South, it won't be too long until you're cruising the Strip. Sin City's notorious artery acts as the epicenter of any Vegas getaway.

Here, you'll find Las Vegas' most iconic landmarks , including the  Bellagio Fountains , the Eiffel Tower at Paris, Las Vegas , the pyramid and sphinx belonging to The Luxor , and  The Venetian's Grand Canal .

Visit the Sphere Visit the Sphere

When construction on the Sphere first began in 2019, the addition of yet another "world's largest" was met with a shrug. Las Vegas' skyline was already crammed with record-breaking, jaw-dropping attractions. Did the city really need one more? But when the Sphere's exterior LED screen switched on for the first time in 2023, suddenly this golf ball-shaped music and entertainment arena was all anyone could talk about. People crowded onto resort parking lot rooftops to watch as the largest spherical building on the planet transformed into a giant blinking eye, a swirling snow globe or a Space Age metallic orb.

At 366 feet tall, the Sphere is massive – taller than the Statue of Liberty . And the entire exterior of the building is cloaked in 1.2 million LED lights, which has the effect of transforming the Sphere into an almost lifelike replica of whatever images the screen projects. Visitors describe the Sphere as futuristic and otherworldly; like a piece of alien tech transported from another galaxy.

Bellagio Casino and Fountains Bellagio Casino and Fountains free

This Strip staple offers plenty of ways to lay your money on the line, from table games and slot machines to a race and sports book. This is also the choice casino among many high rollers due to its high-stakes tables. What's more, this casino hosts the World Poker Tour, among other tournaments. But there's more to the Bellagio than the casino floor.

Even those who don't gamble praise the Bellagio for its upscale atmosphere and variety of amenities and attractions. Anyone who's seen a movie set in Vegas will recognize the Bellagio's massive fountains: Every 15 to 30 minutes, those walking past the exterior of the Bellagio are treated to a complimentary light and water show with the fountain's jets shooting water into the air during intricately choreographed "dances" set to music.

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See a Cirque du Soleil show See a Cirque du Soleil show

Las Vegas knows how to go big – especially when it comes to entertainment . So, it should come as no surprise that a performance company like Cirque du Soleil thrives here. Translating to "Circus of the Sun," Cirque du Soleil is known for its incredible acrobatic feats, which are performed with an unrivaled level of artistry. There are five different Cirque shows in Las Vegas, all of which are performed at different casinos along the Strip .

"O," which can be seen at the Bellagio , showcases synchronized swimmers and divers who perform in, on and above water.

The Venetian Casino and Grand Canal The Venetian Casino and Grand Canal free

Why spend the money to cross the Atlantic when you can get a taste of Italy right in Vegas? Nestled along the Strip , The Venetian replicates the highlights of Venice , complete with gondola rides along the Grand Canal . Visitors can get a taste of what life is like in the Queen of the Adriatic thanks to The Venetian's Streetmosphere program: singers, stilt walkers and "living statues" recreate the typical scene you'd likely encounter in the real Venice for those who opt to spend the day perusing the wares in the Grand Canal Shoppes.

For $34 per person, you can take a gondola ride along the hotel's Grand Canal (inside or outside) anytime between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Sunday; on Friday and Saturday, gondola rides are offered until midnight. In addition to piloting the gondola, gondoliers serenade passengers as the boat glides beneath bridges, beside cafes and under balconies.

Caesars Palace Casino and The Forum Shops Caesars Palace Casino and The Forum Shops free

A staple of the Vegas Strip , Caesars Palace started welcoming visitors to Sin City beginning in the 1960s. Since then, it has made an appearance in such popular films as "Rain Man," "Iron Man" and "The Hangover." Those who choose to gamble at Caesars will find themselves in ancient Rome , with massive columns and frescoes paying tribute to the casino's namesake. Those who prefer to use their money in other ways can make their way to The Forum Shops – home to about 160 specialty stores and restaurants, including Tom Ford and Saint Laurent, as well as more affordable outlets like H&M and Nike.

Caesars Palace is also home to a variety of nightlife venues, including the 75,000-square-foot Omnia Nightclub and the trendy Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, a favorite among fans of the "Vanderpump Rules" reality television series. Meanwhile, the on-site Colosseum venue is home to musical residencies like Rod Stewart, Garth Brooks and Adele. Top restaurants include Nobu and Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas free

The Cosmopolitan Resort and Casino, known simply as "The Cosmo" by locals, is the hip, glitzy place to go to see and be seen. Although the 3,000-plus room casino no longer holds the title of the "newest casino on the Strip ," it has remained trendy since it opened in 2010, thanks to its thriving dining and nightlife scene.

Known for both its in-your-face opulence and its hidden, "underground" entertainment, the Cosmo is a modern, high-end alternative to some of the Strip's over-the-top themed resorts. The Cosmo has not one, but three speakeasies (one of which is hidden behind a door marked "Janitor" inside a barbershop), a hidden restaurant disguised as a pawn shop, and the popular

Fremont Street Experience Fremont Street Experience free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun "vintage Vegas" experience, head to the second floor of the D Las Vegas Casino to play the Sigma Derby mechanical horse betting game. It's more than 30 years old and the last of its kind in Las Vegas! – Reannon Muth

Fremont Street used to be dominated by classic, but less-frequented casinos that seemed past their prime, such as the Golden Nugget and the Pioneer Club. Today, this section of downtown Las Vegas is once again ready to compete with the Strip for visitors' attention.

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Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Located about 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip , the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers travelers a respite from downtown Las Vegas' unnatural neon landscape. Though you can opt to follow the 13-mile scenic car route through the desert, make the most of your visit by stretching your legs along the numerous hiking and biking trails that dot the one-way route. No matter how you choose to explore the 195,819-acre area, you'll find yourself surrounded by the beautiful Mojave Desert and its signature red hills.

According to previous Red Rock Canyon visitors, a trip here is well worth leaving the casino floor behind. Recent travelers recommended getting out of your car to explore, but suggest you plan hikes or biking excursions during the cooler mornings rather than the sweltering afternoons. Reviewers also say the road is well-maintained and appreciate the abundance of restrooms along the way. Travelers also suggest stopping by the visitor center to peruse the informative exhibits. Last, but certainly not least, slather on sunscreen, bring a hat and pack plenty of water.

New York-New York and the Big Apple Coaster New York-New York and the Big Apple Coaster free

You won't have any trouble finding New York-New York: Its faux-Manhattan skyline – complete with scale models of famous Big Apple attractions like the Statue of Liberty , the Empire State Building and the Brooklyn Bridge – occupies almost a full block of the Strip . Sitting across the street from the MGM Grand , New York-New York recreates the Gotham experience in true Vegas fashion, boasting a New York-style pizzeria, several casual pubs and a variety of souvenir and specialty shops.

If you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids , you’ll find a variety of family-friendly attractions here, including Hershey's Chocolate World, which offers more than 800 kinds of Hershey's chocolates and candies, and features a nearly 800-pound Statue of Liberty sculpture composed almost entirely of chocolate. In addition to an arcade, the property is also famous for its Big Apple Coaster.

Paris, Las Vegas and the Eiffel Tower Experience Paris, Las Vegas and the Eiffel Tower Experience free

Though it may not be quite as timeless as the actual City of Lights , Sin City's (rather kitschy) take on Paris is one of the Strip's most popular occupants.

The property offers a whirlwind tour of the French capital's most iconic sights: You'll find a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, architecture reminiscent of the Paris Opera and the Louvre, and the pièce de résistance – a 46-story, half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower. Tickets to the tower's observation deck cost $25 for adults and $19 for kids ages 4 to 12. Similar to the real tower in Paris, the Las Vegas Eiffel Tower stages a free recurring light show every 30 minutes from sunset to midnight daily. For a unique view of the tower, reserve a lounge chair by the property’s pool, which is located on the rooftop directly under the Eiffel Tower replica.

Hoover Dam Hoover Dam

Sitting about 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam spans the Colorado River and the Black Canyon (which separates Nevada and Arizona). The immense concrete structure – which confines Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume – has helped provide power to Nevada, Arizona and California since 1935. These days, in addition to keeping the lights on, the Hoover Dam welcomes more than 7 million visitors each year as one of America's most recognized landmarks. Some of its most noteworthy sights are as follows:

Visitor Center:  You can learn more about the Hoover Dam with a stop at the Visitor Center, which is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The facility's Exhibit Gallery features various audio, visual and interactive exhibits, such as a generator model you can walk through, while the theater shows a 10-minute film about the dam. Don't forget to head to the top-floor observation area to snap some memorable pictures of the massive structure, Lake Mead and the Colorado River, as most visitors recommend doing.

Area15 Area15

Like many of Sin City's attractions, Area15 is hard to describe. Marketed on its website as an "immersive entertainment district," the 200,000-square-foot warehouse features a psychedelic smorgasbord of unique experiences, including cinematic immersions, interactive art exhibits, virtual reality arcades, zip lines, axe-throwing and several one-of-a-kind bars and restaurants.

Area15 has earned comparisons to Burning Man and "Alice in Wonderland," thanks to the art installations that tower outside and the mind-bending exhibits inside. Two of the most popular attractions are the immersive art experience, Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, and the rum-fueled immersive Cirque show "Lost Spirits Distillery."

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LINQ Promenade LINQ Promenade

Home to the High Roller observation wheel, the LINQ Promenade is an open-air shopping, dining and entertainment district.

Located between The LINQ Hotel and Casino and Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, the 1,200-foot-long promenade is anchored by the 550-foot High Roller, the largest observation wheel in North America and one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids . Recent travelers found the 360-degrees of the Strip , the city and the desert worth the trip.

Wynn Las Vegas Wynn Las Vegas free

If you're looking for a luxurious experience along the Strip , the Wynn (and its sister property, Encore ) delivers. With its stylishly understated accommodations and grand casino, the Wynn draws travelers seeking a sophisticated stay. Visitors who aren’t guests of the hotel often stop by to admire its opulent interiors. The property’s eye-catching lobby is a particular favorite as it features a variety of photo-worthy floral displays.

In addition to the casino, the Wynn is also home to a collection of luxury shops like Celine and Hermès, fine dining, such as the acclaimed Wing Lei, and an 18-hole golf course – the only resort golf course on the Strip. Its nightly entertainment options are just as unique. Along with several posh bars and lounges, the Wynn is also well-known for its nightly "Lake of Dreams" show. Spread across 3 acres, the multimedia show uses 5,500 LED lights, a 90-foot waterfall and 1,500 pine trees to create its spectacular setting. There are also two luxurious spas on-site.

SkyPod & Observation Deck at the STRAT Hotel SkyPod & Observation Deck at the STRAT Hotel

U.S. News Insider Tip: A lot of people go to dinner at the Top of the World Restaurant at the STRAT, but if you're looking for something more budget friendly, 108 Drinks offers delicious food and two-for-one cocktails during its "Sky High Happy Hour." – Reannon Muth

For a panoramic view of the Strip , head to the STRAT Hotel. The hotel boasts a 1,149-foot tower – the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States.

Take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel Take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel

For a unique, bird's-eye view of the Strip , take a ride on the High Roller at The LINQ. Standing 550 feet tall and 520 feet in diameter, the observation wheel is the largest in North America. The massive Ferris wheel features 28 handcrafted pods made out of Italian glass that can hold up to 40 people each.

A trip around the observation wheel takes about 30 minutes, and recent travelers say it's a great time to snap photos of the nearby casinos and attractions. This is also one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids .

The Neon Museum The Neon Museum

Once the sun goes down, Las Vegas shines brightly with hundreds of thousands of colorful bulbs flashing for your attention. Neon is nothing new in America's Playground: Hotels , bars and casinos have been luring customers with bright signs for decades. If you have an interest in learning more about the city’s iconic signs and Las Vegas history in general, consider a visit to The Neon Museum. Located on Las Vegas Boulevard just north of the Mob Museum and about a mile north of Fremont Street , the outdoor Neon Museum offers guided tours of what's known as the "Neon Boneyard." The boneyard can be found behind the museum's visitor center, which occupies the lobby of the former La Concha Motel.

The nearly 2.25-acre outdoor exhibit is home to more than 250 pieces of old Vegas signage all laid out for admiration on the desert floor. You can take a self-guided tour during the day, or sign up for a guided tour at night. The 45-minute boneyard walk-throughs are led by museum interpreters, who provide details on signs from such iconic landmarks as Caesars Palace , the Golden Nugget and Stardust.

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The Mob Museum The Mob Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of my favorite places to watch live jazz and blues is at the Mob Museum's basement-level speakeasy, The Underground. The cozy lounge has delicious cocktails and free admission if you know the secret password (hint: check Instagram). – Reannon Muth

Back in the day, not even Vegas' neon lights could distract Americans from Sin City's darker side; today, The Mob Museum sheds light on the city's pervasiveness in the 20th-century gangster era. Las Vegas' former federal courthouse – located in the downtown area a few blocks northeast of the Fremont Street Experience  – now houses distinct interactive exhibits devoted to exposing America's mob history.

Circa Resort & Casino Circa Resort & Casino free

When Circa Resort & Casino held its grand opening in 2020, it was the first new casino to open in downtown Las Vegas in more than 40 years. The chic, 35-story-tall addition to this old Las Vegas neighborhood has all the modern features of a 21st-century casino, including a high-tech parking garage named the Garage Mahal and a three-story-tall sportsbook (the world's largest). But the adults-only casino also has a distinctly vintage Vegas vibe, too. Circa's interior features midcentury lighting and accents, globe chandeliers and the iconic "Vegas Vickie," a giant neon cowgirl that hovers over the casino lobby.

The most talked-about attraction among recent visitors at Circa, however, is Stadium Swim, a mashup of a concert stadium and a swimming pool amphitheater. Guests can lounge in one of six pools while they catch a sports game or concert on the 40-foot screen above. The pool is heated and remains open year-round, which makes it a popular lounge spot on desert spring days. Those wishing to visit the pool area must be a guest at the resort or pay a fee; a general admission day pass to Stadium Swim start at $25 per person. The pool is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Downtown Container Park Downtown Container Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you like the artsy vibe of Container Park, then you'll love the nearby Arts District – a hip downtown neighborhood filled with quirky bars, eclectic restaurants and funky murals. Eat at Esther's Kitchen and grab a drink at ReBAR. – Reannon Muth

The Downtown Container Park's premise is an interesting one: An open-air dining and shopping plaza made entirely from repurposed shipping containers. The 1.1-acre venue is also home to a sprawling treehouse and interactive play area and a 40-foot-tall praying mantis sculpture that shoots real flames from its antennae.

SlotZilla Zipline SlotZilla Zipline

Part of the Fremont Street Experience , SlotZilla is modeled after a giant slot machine, complete with Las Vegas icons like oversized dice and a martini glass. At 11 stories tall, SlotZilla is billed as the world’s largest slot machine and as a zip line offers riders two options: On the lower line, Zip-Zilla, participants ride in a seated position, zipping along at 77 feet in the air. The line travels about halfway through the Fremont Street Experience. The higher zip line, known as Super-Hero Zoom, rises 114 feet high. Patrons ride “superhero-style” (with their bodies parallel to the ground) to the other end of the street and are dropped off at the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino. Guests should allot one hour for the entire experience, even though the rides are 30 seconds and one minute, respectively. In addition to a weight check and harness fitting, you’ll have to go through a brief safety training.

Recent travelers found the higher “Super-Hero Zoom” zip line thrilling and enjoyed the views from up above, especially at night. However, there were mixed reviews about the check-in process, and some warned that you’ll have to climb a lot of steps to get to the top of the launching platform.

SPEEDVEGAS SPEEDVEGAS

Not all thrill-seekers are satisfied with laying their cards out on the table. When Lady Luck can't get your adrenaline pumping, an exotic driving experience sure will. Headquartered about 15 minutes south of the Strip , SPEEDVEGAS puts those feeling the need for speed behind some of the world's fastest, most luxurious cars. From exotic Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins to speedy Corvettes and Camaros, you'll have your pick of horsepower.

This experience isn't for everyone: Drivers must be at least 18 years old. The chance to sit in the driver's seat is anything but affordable, with driving experiences starting at approximately $250 for five laps. However, those who have put the pedal to the metal on a SPEEDVEGAS experience can't stop raving about it, praising the accommodating and safety-conscious staff.

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Springs Preserve Springs Preserve

If you're looking for a kid-friendly activity away from the Strip , or just need a breath of fresh air, consider a visit to the Springs Preserve and Origen Museum. There's something of interest for almost everyone at this 180-acre cultural institution, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve is located at the original water source for the valley, and is commonly known as the "birthplace of Las Vegas." It's a place meant to commemorate Las Vegas' history and boasts museums, galleries, a botanical garden, a butterfly habitat and an interpretive trail system. Meanwhile, the Origen Museum features more than 75 permanent exhibits, an indoor theater and a traveling exhibit space.

Recent visitors raved about the family-friendly atmosphere here, but even those without kids in tow love the history and the botanical garden. Reviewers called the grounds “peaceful” and said Springs Preserve provides a fun day away from the Strip.

Mandalay Bay Casino, Aquarium and Beach Mandalay Bay Casino, Aquarium and Beach free

Sure, this towering gold building at the southern end of the Strip boasts all the slots, poker and game tables you want in a Sin City venue, not to mention a variety of restaurants and nightlife venues. (Plus, it's home to the House of Blues Music Hall and plays host to "Michael Jackson ONE," Cirque du Soleil 's tribute to the 80s pop icon.) But Mandalay Bay doesn't exude the same level of kitsch found at other casinos along Las Vegas Boulevard – a major selling point for more laid-back travelers. In fact, this is the place you go if you're looking for an escape, according to reviewers.

One of the major highlights of Mandalay Bay is its 11-acre “aquatic playground,” which features a human-made beach, a lazy river and a wave pool that creates an oceanside atmosphere in the middle of the Nevada desert. You can kick off your shoes and work on your tan in one of the rentable cabanas or gazebos; those looking to avoid bikini tan lines can ditch the top at the Moorea Beach Club. Note that unless you're a guest at the Mandalay Bay or the Delano Las Vegas, you will have to rent a cabana to access the pool and beach areas – prices vary by day and occupancy levels.

Luxor Casino Luxor Casino free

As you make your way down the Strip , you can't miss the 30-story pyramid that is home to the Luxor Hotel & Casino. You can try your luck at more than 1,100 slot, video poker and multi-game machines, or play one of dozens of table games on the 120,000-square-foot floor. There's also a large sportsbook area, with plasma TVs and individual seats with monitors. If you're a high roller, there's a private section for you, too, with a comfortable lounge and cocktail bar.

In addition to the gaming floor, the casino also offers a variety of nightly entertainment options and attractions like the Blue Man Group, as well as several museum exhibits, such as one devoted to Titanic artifacts. For many travelers, “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” was a highlight of their visit to Luxor. In addition to featuring more than 250 artifacts recovered from the ship, the exhibition displays recreated rooms, including the ornate Grand Staircase. What's more, Luxor touts one of the largest pool decks in Vegas, offering 125,650 square feet of space. As with other hotels on the Strip, Luxor also offers a variety of nightlife venues and restaurants.

MGM Grand Casino MGM Grand Casino free

It only makes sense that a city devoted to entertainment would feature a casino hotel devoted to the entertainment industry. MGM Grand Casino – which sits mid-Strip across from New York-New York at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue – hosts a variety of performances ranging from big-name concerts to sporting events to Cirque du Soleil 's "KÀ." It is also the partner to the nearby T-Mobile Arena, which hosts large-scale events, such as the iHeartRadio Music Festival.

The MGM Grand is also home to several top-notch restaurants and nightlife venues, such as Hakkasan nightclub, where celebrity DJs regularly spin hits into the wee hours. During the day, you can stop by Wet Republic Ultra Pool, where you can dance, swim or relax in party cabanas. Several shops can be found here as well, but you'll likely spend most of your time (and your money) on the casino floor, which houses poker tables, slot machines and a race and sports book. Keep in mind: The property spans more than 6 acres, so you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your visit (comfortable shoes are a must). Travelers were impressed by the size of the MGM Grand Casino, but said the nightlife options are the real star of the property.

Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon

If you’re in need of a retreat into nature during your Las Vegas vacation, consider planning a day trip to the Grand Canyon. The national park’s popular South Rim is located about 280 miles (around 4.5 hours) southeast of the Strip.

If you don't have your own set of wheels, opt for one of the Best Grand Canyon Bus Tours From Las Vegas . For a shorter time commitment, there’s also the Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours , some of which include a landing on the canyon floor. 

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The Adventuredome at Circus Circus The Adventuredome at Circus Circus

In a city that boasts every type of attraction imaginable, it’s no surprise to find an indoor amusement park. Located on the Strip , the 5-acre Adventuredome at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino offers rides and entertainment for all ages. There are 25 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a carousel, a video game arcade and a rock clubbing wall, all housed under a large glass dome. The complex also includes free clown shows, virtual reality rooms and the FX Theater, which screens family-friendly films in 4D.

Recent visitors appreciated the climate-controlled indoor environment, but warn that the Adventuredome is better suited to younger children (ages 12 and younger) than adults due to the nature of its rides and attractions. (It's considered one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids .) Reviewers complained about the price of the admission passes.

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas, NV

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023

This city in the desert is known around the world for fun and excitement. The Strip, Las Vegas' famous resort-lined street, sparkles with lights and recreated glamorous sites from cities around the world.

Many of the hotels are attractions in and of themselves and feature free streetside shows, from dancing fountains to erupting volcanoes. You'll also find interesting museums, an always impressive list of shows, and countless other things to do.

The Grand Canyon is just a short helicopter ride away, and the hills and mountains surrounding Las Vegas are home to all kinds of recreational opportunities, from hiking and camping to boating and skiing.

Las Vegas is a great place to visit year-round. The cooler winter temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing, and in summer, when the temperature can rise above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the hotel pools become an important part of the daytime activities.

Plan your visit and make the most of your time with our list of the top attractions in Las Vegas.

Fremont Street Experience

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The 2.5-mile-long central section of Las Vegas Boulevard, which runs through the city from northeast to southwest, known as the Strip, is where the action is. Lined with huge entertainment palaces, many built with a defining theme, and home to performance venues, luxury hotel rooms, and fine dining , this is what most people think of when they picture Las Vegas.

One of the must-do's in Las Vegas is walking along the Strip and soaking up the sights. It's particularly impressive at night, when the city is illuminated by an endless succession of glittering neon signs. This area is a never-ending feast for the senses.

Generally speaking, the Las Vegas Strip runs from the Mandalay Bay Hotel to Treasure Island Hotel. To truly experience Las Vegas, stay on The Strip, preferably at one of the major resorts. For a look at some of the best accommodation options in a variety of price ranges, see our recommended hotels .

In old downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street is a pedestrian-only area with all kinds of unique sites. A five-block section of Fremont Street is covered over with a canopy of LED lights that illuminate the sky in a spectacle of different colors and designs as you walk below.

Known as the Fremont Street Experience, each night a fantastic music and visual show takes place overhead. Street performers and special entertainment acts often perform outdoors in this area. Fremont Street is in downtown Las Vegas, a few kilometers from the Strip.

It is best to take a taxi to reach this area.

Official site: www.vegasexperience.com

For a great aerial view over Las Vegas, or even the Grand Canyon , visitors may want to take a helicopter ride. Las Vegas has a number of companies providing helicopter tours that take visitors over Las Vegas and the Strip, or as far away as the Grand Canyon.

This is a great opportunity for anyone with limited time to see not only Vegas, but the surrounding landscape and one of America's most impressive and famous natural attractions.

The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas is located on the Strip, across from Treasure Island. It is one of the city's finest resorts and has many interesting tourist attractions. Inside is a themed shopping arcade built to resemble the city of Venice, complete with blue skies, canals, and gondoliers. The hotel also features recreations of the main attractions found in Venice, such as the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, along with many others.

The Venetian Gondola Rides are a fun way to see the complex. Situated out in front of the Venetian Hotel, near the sidewalk, boats await passengers who are then taken on a ride by their personable gondolier who sings as they take you through the shopping arcade inside the hotel.

Address: 3655 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.venetian.com/

Located on the Strip, Paris Las Vegas is one of the most easily recognized resorts in the city. Out front is a scale model of the Eiffel Tower, and down the way is a recreation of the Paris Opera House. Forty-six stories above the city streets, the Eiffel Tower Experience is an observation deck with incredible 360-degree views.

One story below this is posh and romantic Eiffel Tower Restaurant, with fine views out over the Strip and across to the dancing fountains of Bellagio. Also on the property is a mock hot air balloon festooned with neon and flashing lights.

Official site: https://www.caesars.com/paris-las-vegas

The Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas is a massive, high-end hotel complex, with a wide variety of attractions, including the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a spa and salon, and some of the finest restaurants in Las Vegas.

Beyond the lobby is a showroom area with changing themes that range from spring botanical displays to fascinating shows of art. The most impressive and famous feature is the fountain show.

In front of the Bellagio, along the Strip, the dancing fountains perform a beautiful display of water set to music. From the sidewalk, visitors have a ringside view. This is often described as the best free attraction in Las Vegas.

Address: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.bellagio.com/en.html

The Mirage Hotel is easy to identify while walking along the Strip. In front of the resort is a volcano, which erupts at regular intervals. At night, the glowing red fire and explosions shooting out of the volcano are some of the most unique sites visible from the sidewalk.

Inside the Mirage is Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. Although Siegfried & Roy have both died and no longer perform, you can still see a wide variety of exotic animals, including white lions and tigers. The Dolphin Habitat contains a large number of trained dolphins in its 2.5-million-gallon pools.

Address: 3400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada

Official site: https://www.mirage.com/en.html

The High Roller Las Vegas Strip Observation Wheel is the largest observation wheel in North America, topping out at an impressive 550 feet high. A single rotation takes 30 minutes. This will give you plenty of time to soak up the outstanding views over the Strip and surrounding area, especially at night.

Each cabin holds up to 40 people and is climate controlled. The High Roller is located at the bottom end of the Linq Lane - if you aren't sure where that is, just look up!

Official site: https://www.caesars.com/linq/high-roller

The New York-New York Hotel in Las Vegas is across the street from both the MGM Grand Hotel and the Excalibur Resort Hotel . Visually stunning, the hotel is designed to appear like New York's skyline, complete with the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. A huge roller coaster, called the Big Apple Coaster, circles in and around the hotel.

Should you work up an appetite while staying at the hotel, seven different restaurants offer up everything from sushi through to steaks.

Address: 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.newyorknewyork.com/en.html

Perhaps one of the best known of all the Las Vegas hotel resorts, Caesar's Palace continues to evolve. Currently Caesar's Palace is a massive complex in the middle of the Strip, complete with every imaginable entertainment option.

The hotel is closely associated with shows held in its huge concert venue known as "The Colosseum." Top performers (which have included Celine Dion and Elton John) perform here for extended periods, and shows are often booked out well in advance. Visitors planning a trip and hoping to see a performance here will want to check out dates and ticket availability as early as possible.

Address: 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.caesars.com/caesars-palace

The Mob Museum, or the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement as it is officially named, is a truly unique and standout museum in Nevada.

The museum is housed in a 1933 Neoclassical building, formerly the US Post Office and Courthouse, that has its own history. It was one of the locations for the famous Kefauver Committee hearings in 1950, which revealed some ugly truths about organized crime in Las Vegas and across the US.

The museum tells the unvarnished history of the Mob in America through engaging, interactive displays and video clips. Exhibits deal with everything from the individual characters and events to the culture and fashion associated with the times.

Address: 300 Stewart Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada

Official site: https://themobmuseum.org/

Mandalay Bay Resort is at the southwest end of the Strip, near the Luxor hotel. One of the key highlights at this complex is the Shark Reef Aquarium. The massive 1,300,000-gallon tank holds a wide variety of sharks, fish, rays, reptiles, marine invertebrates, green sea turtles, and even a Komodo dragon.

Just over 100 sharks from 15 different species and more than 2,000 animals in all are on display. The Shark Tunnel is the most impressive feature. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Shark Reef works with wildlife biologists to preserve endangered lake and marine populations as well as rehabilitate injured animals.

Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: http://www.sharkreef.com/

The bright and colorful neon signs of Las Vegas have been one of the city's most memorable sights for countless visitors throughout the years. These multi-story advertising beacons became one of the city's claims to fame.

Today, the Neon Museum is working hard to preserve some of the city's history by purchasing, storing, and in some cases, refurbishing the historic neon signs that have gone by the wayside as businesses have faded or new signs have taken the place of older icons.

You can see many of these signs by taking a guided tour at the Neon Museum, where old neon signs are stored outside in a large compound. Guides provide the history of the signs and designs, which have evolved over the years.

Efforts at the museum are ongoing, and signs stand in varying conditions. In some cases, only a portion was saved or found, while others have been restored to their former glory. This contrast makes the museum that much more interesting and gives visitors insight into how much work and upkeep is required with these giant signs.

Address: 770 Las Vegas Boulevard North, Las Vegas, Nevada

Official site: http://www.neonmuseum.org/

Another distinctive theme hotel, at the far southwest end of the Strip, is the Luxor Hotel. Designed in an ancient Egyptian theme, the hotel is shaped like a pyramid, with a sphinx proudly gazing out over the street. The Luxor, like all the major resorts, offers a wide variety of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

One of the more unique Las Vegas attractions is the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Over 250 items recovered from one of the most famous maritime disasters are on display.

One of the standout features of this hotel is the beam of light that projects from the highest point of the pyramid and shoots up into the night sky. It can be seen from almost anywhere in Las Vegas.

Address: 3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.luxor.com/en.html

The STRAT Tower is an unmistakable sight on the Las Vegas skyline. The tower rises up 1,149 feet, and at the very top is the Skypod, the real attraction for visitors.

From the various levels of the Skypod, you'll find a whole host of things to do. These include a variety of heart-pounding thrill rides, including the SkyJump, Big Shot, X Scream, and Insanity.

For those looking for a little less drama, check out the indoor and outdoor observation decks with great views over the city. The Top of the World Restaurant is a great place to grab an excellent meal while soaking up the views of the Las Vegas Strip off in the distance.

Considering getting married? A fully outfitted chapel is available for you to tie the knot in the sky.

The STRAT Tower claims the "tallest freestanding observation tower in the USA."

Address: 2000 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: http://www.stratospherehotel.com/

The MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas is across the street from the New York-New York Hotel and kitty corner to the Excalibur Resort Hotel. The MGM Grand Hotel has all the amenities visitors would expect to find at a luxury hotel including above average accommodations, a multitude of restaurants, and plenty of entertainment options.

One of the highlights of a stay at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas is a visit to the pool area. Spread out over 6.5 acres, the water fun includes four pools, a waterfall, a Lazy River, and three whirlpools.

Address: 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.mgmgrand.com/en.html

Vegas Indoor Skydiving offers a truly unique experience. Here, visitors will get to experience what actual skydiving is like, without an airplane or parachute. Qualified instructors escort participants to a vertical wind tunnel where they are suited up in special gear. Once the fan is turned on, anyone can float effortlessly in the air. No experience is necessary.

It's a perfect thing to do as a group or family; no matter your age or fitness, you'll be flying high in no time.

Address: 200 Convention Center Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada

Official site: http://www.vegasindoorskydiving.com/

Madame Tussaud's in Las Vegas is near the escalators leading up to the Venetian Hotel on the Strip. Here, visitors can see their favorite stars preserved forever in wax. In many cases, the figures are so lifelike it is almost eerie.

Figures range from Elvis to Bradley Cooper and Sofia Vergara right though to musical acts like Beyoncé and Miley Cyrus. The overall focus or theme of Madame Tussaud's is on people who are associated with Las Vegas or in show business.

Address: 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada

Official site: https://www.madametussauds.com/las-vegas/en/

Fans of fast cars will want to head over to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Located in Clark County 15 miles northeast of the Strip, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a 1,200-acre complex of multiple automobile racing tracks just right for the speed-freak in you.

Ever imagined what it would be like to drive a Lamborghini or Ferrari? Dream no longer. These cars are available to be driven at high speeds around the race track if you've got the cash to spare.

The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is home to NASCAR races, as well as a number of other racing events. Several speed records have been set at the track. The Speedway features multiple restaurants, and for those wishing to stay overnight, RV camping is available. Check the website for the latest upcoming events and pricing.

Address: 700 North Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: http://www.lvms.com/

The Excalibur Hotel in Las Vegas is another theme hotel on the Strip. Decked out in medieval character, the hotel features some wild architecture, complete with turrets. The hotel has all the amenities a visitor could possibly imagine, with varied entertainment, a huge pool area, and a good assortment of restaurants serving a variety of food from around the world.

Generally considered one of the cheapest places to stay on the Strip, the Excalibur frequently offers incredible deals on their website.

Address: 3850 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas

Official site: https://www.excalibur.com/en.html

If you are searching for that iconic photo of you and your friends in front of the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, just head south down the strip about a block past West Russell Road. A large parking lot is located just to the south of the sign, and a winding walkway with trees and greenery takes you to the sign itself.

The sign is actually quite a bit smaller than you would expect. The best photos are taken from the south, with the palm trees framing the sign with the Mandalay Bay Hotel glittering in the background.

Las Vegas is a place where your wallet can certainly take a beating. One place that's easy on the pocket book and still a ton of fun is the Pinball Hall of Fame. An unbelievable number of pinball machines are spread out across 25,000 square feet of space. This brand-new facility recently opened in April 2021 and has become one of the top things to do in town for pinball aficionados.

Wander through the Hall of Fame, and find a machine you like. Just pop in a quarter, and away you go. Vintage machines right through to modern and technologically advanced ones are all available. The Pinball Hall of Fame is easy to locate, just look for the enormous sign just north of the Welcome to Las Vegas sign.

Official site: http://www.pinballmuseum.org/

Gearheads from around the world will want to make a beeline to the Shelby America Heritage Center. On display are over 30 classic cars designed and built by Carol Shelby over the years, along with assorted memorabilia. It's also one of the best free attractions in Las Vegas.

However, the more in-depth behind-the-scenes tour is well worth the modest investment. This guided tour takes you beyond the showroom onto the factory floor to see these muscle cars being hand made by skilled technicians.

Official site: https://www.shelby.com/en-us/Shelby-Las-Vegas/Shelby-Heritage-Center-Home

For something off the Strip that combines food, fun, and entertainment at a low cost, head to the Downtown Container Park. Here, you'll find nearly 40 shipping containers repurposed into restaurants, shops, and other venues. No matter what you crave, whether it's food, a new outfit, or the latest thing you never knew you needed, there's a good chance you'll find it here.

The Downtown Container Park frequently hosts evening entertainment featuring an ever-changing cast of performers. One of the most exciting things that happens each evening is the awakening of the giant Praying Mantis. Frequently accompanied by a drum circle, this metal insect shoots flames from its antennae as it comes to life.

The Downtown Container Park is located a short distance east of the Fremont Street Experience.

Official site: https://downtowncontainerpark.com/

Just beyond the lights and electric vibe of Las Vegas is a spectacular landscape of gorges, red rocks, mountains, and desert scenery. If you have time, be sure to get out and see the sites beyond the city limits.

• Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam : The two biggest attractions in the Las Vegas surrounding area are these two fantastic sites: one natural, and the other, man-made. The Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam are accessible by car, public transportation, and guided tours. See our articles on how to get to the Grand Canyon , and how to get to Hoover Dam , from Las Vegas.
• Red Rock Canyon : Take a four- or six-hour guided Red Rock Canyon tour to see some of the spectacular red rock scenery and views out over the desert and mountains.
• Hiking and Camping: You can find some great hiking trails in the surrounding desert and mountains. For some unique experiences see our articles on the best hiking trails in Valley of Fire State Park and best hikes near Las Vegas . If you have your own camping equipment and are trying to figure out the best places to set up camp, see our list of the best campgrounds near Las Vegas .
• Self Drive Excursions: Explore nearby towns and incredible natural areas with our Top-Rated Day Trips from Las Vegas article.

More on Nevada

20 of the best things to do in Las Vegas

Aug 30, 2024 • 11 min read

Downtown Las Vegas, including Fremont Street, are unmissable. B. Tanaka/Getty Images

Where-oh-where does a “top things to do in Las Vegas ” list end?

In a town built on glitz, entertainment and defying the spectrum of human activities, Sin City has no shortage of things to do. For gamblers, show lovers, club thumpers, history enthusiasts, outdoor trekkers and seemingly everything in between, there is something for everyone. Even unusual activities, like playing with construction equipment in a giant sandbox or perhaps upsetting some ghosts by getting hands-on with haunted artifacts , have a place here.

Of course, there's only so much you can do on your visit. Here's how to make the most of your Vegas experience.

1. Gawk at the street performers on Fremont Street

Consider Fremont St Old Vegas’ colorful artery, lined with neon signage and, above, a zip line as well as the large, canopied Fremont Street Experience with video-meets-popular jams shows every hour. This is where Las Vegas’ first casino came to fruition – the Golden Gate , it’s still there – and where the World Series of Poker was born (at Binion’s ). East of Las Vegas Boulevard on Fremont Street (aptly known as East Fremont), you’ll find some of the hippest hangouts and bars frequented by locals, like Atomic Liquors and Container Park .

Beyond the buildings, it’s the street performers – spanning sexy cowboys, showgirls, magicians and drum groups – that round out the quirky flair of it all.

Planning tip: You’ll find these characters in designated painted circles throughout, just make sure to tip them if you want to take a photo.

2. Get funky in the Arts District

In a town bursting with creatives – spanning Cirque du Soleil acrobats to main stage singing ensembles – the Las Vegas Arts District is a hip hub where talent shines. Fuel your day at the neighborhood coffee shop Vesta Coffee Roasters , then explore the Arts Factory , a massive building with multiple galleries, a theater and quaint bars.

Planning tip: If you happen to be in town on the first Friday of the month, First Friday is a street festival experience, with dozens of artists with tent set-ups, local musicians and Vegas-born food trucks.

Ready to plan your trip to Sin City? Here's our guide to the best time to visit Las Vegas

3. Discover unique history at a one-of-a-kind Las Vegas museum

All cities with an art, science and history museum feel boring compared to Las Vegas. Take your pick here: there’s an Atomic Testing Museum , a Mob Museum detailing shady Nevadans’ pasts, the Pinball Hall of Fame and, for those feeling sultry, the Erotic Heritage Museum . For history-meets-Instagram opps, the Neon Museum has 200-plus, now-retired, light-up signs from buildings throughout Vegas’ history in a “Neon Boneyard” to pose with.

4. Rake in the dough at a local casino

Outside of the Strip and downtown Las Vegas, plenty of local casinos add to the dining and entertainment scene in the surrounding neighborhoods. Gambling in Las Vegas can often offer cheaper table games, local charm and quirky attractions for those willing to venture away from the main areas of attraction in Vegas.

Standouts include the Silverton Casino Lodge, with a 117,000-gallon aquarium and mermaid shows, and Red Rock Resort, with the nearby Downtown Summerlin shopping utopia. South Point is great for equestrian show enthusiasts. Those looking for a new casino can check out Durango in Southwest Las Vegas, which opened in 2023.

5. Catch a Broadway-caliber show at the Smith Center

The elegant Reynolds Hall in The Smith Center has become a Las Vegas must-see since its 2012 opening. Pair your night at the 2,000-seat theater with a pre-show visit to Discovery Children’s Museum next door or a bite at jazz lounge Vic’s. For top Las Vegas shows , like Hamilton or Moulin Rouge, Reynolds Hall holds big-name performances sure to rival New York City’s Broadway scene.

Having a hard time deciding which show is right for you? Let us help you choose .

6. Stroll the Strip

Where else can you peruse an Egyptian pyramid, the Eiffel Tower, the largest observation wheel in the US, giant fountains, and oodles of massive resorts? It's all on the Strip in Las Vegas. Start your wander at the Mandalay Bay and head north to the STRAT. It’s a 4-mile walk, and perhaps you'll decide to stop sooner due to consuming yard-long frozen daiquiris en route. The best walks in Vegas are on the Strip, where you’ll have no problem hitting your 10,000-step goal.

7. Eat in Chinatown

Chinatown, one of the top Las Vegas neighborhoods , offers something unique. Within a five-minute drive west of the Strip, you’ll find the epicenter of Chinatown. The atmosphere is primarily strip malls, with family-owned eateries, supermarkets, and foot/massage spas side by side.

Planning tip: When hunger calls, pop in CrunCheese Korean Hot Dog for a morsel doused in fried potato cubes or Kame Omakase for an upscale chef’s tasting menu of sushi delights.

8. Cheer on your favorite sports team

The roar you hear on the Strip just north of Tropicana Ave? It’s not the lion statue at MGM Grand . It’s likely ice hockey fans, cheering on the city’s most beloved home team, Vegas Golden Knights. Catch a game at T-Mobile Arena during the NHL season, which runs October to April.

Beyond hockey and in recent times, Las Vegas is now home to the Raiders football team – which plays at Allegiant Stadium September through January – and the Aces WNBA team, which plays at the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay from May through September.

9. Hike Red Rock Canyon and/or Valley of Fire State Park

For some, one of the greatest parts about visiting Las Vegas is leaving Las Vegas. The area just outside of Las Vegas encompasses Hoover Dam, antique shops in Boulder City, and beautiful landscapes at both Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire State Park. If you fancy a hike, opt for the 2.2-mile Calico Tanks Trail at Red Rock Canyon, with its stunning sandstone and red rock formations.

Looking to explore more beyond Las Vegas? Here are our top day trips

10. Take in the desert landscape – and learn about it, too – at Springs Preserve

Before the casinos drew millions of visitors a year to Vegas, the water source known as Las Vegas Springs was the main attraction. The site of the springs is Springs Preserve, which is now a multifaceted educational experience. The grounds feel like a true desert garden oasis, where one can saunter through a botanical garden or feel the rush of a flash flood at an immersive exhibit.

11. Go skiing or enjoy a cool reprieve at Mount Charleston

When summer sizzles – it commonly gets up into the 110°Fs and 120°Fs in Las Vegas – head northwest for a 20°F drop at Mt Charleston . Come wintertime and perhaps unexpectedly for right outside of Sin City, you can ski, tube, sled and snowboard the mountains, too.

12. Act like a local on East Fremont Street

East of Las Vegas Boulevard on Fremont Street (aptly known as East Fremont), you’ll find some of the hippest hangouts and bars frequented by locals, like Atomic Liquors and Container Park.

And while you’re down there, don’t miss the free light show that runs every hour between 6:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.. Ninety feet above Fremont Street is the world’s largest video canopy, sure to dazzle and delight all ages.

13. Observe the Largest Dam in the U.S.

While not technically inside Las Vegas, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume, the Hoover Dam is only a 45-minute drive from the Strip. Many companies offer tours from the Strip, including Canyon Tours, for those who want to avoid renting a car.

Since 1935, the Hoover Dam has provided power to Nevada, Arizona, and California. An impressive sight on its own, it is even more remarkable from the observation area inside the visitor’s center, where you can see Lake Mead and the Colorado River. While the attraction is free, plan to pay the $10 for premium parking and enter the visitor’s center.

14. When in Vegas, Experience Rome

One of the most famous hotels, Caesar’s Palace, has welcomed visitors since the 1960s. With architecture that plants you into ancient Rome, visiting Caesar’s is like walking back in time. After you’re done gambling along the massive columns and frescoes (a type of painting done quickly on wet plaster), take what money you’ve made and head to The Forum Shops. With 160 shops, including a mixture of high-end, outlet, and everything in between, The Forum Shops will surely please any shopper.

15. Dine with the stars

Vegas is known for its top dining scene with some of the most highly awarded and recognized chefs and restaurants in the U.S. Those looking for Michelin star-rated Vegas restaurants look no further. For top-notch food and impeccable service, make a reservation at Le Cirque or Michael Mina in Bellagio. If you prefer a private dining experience, check out the Krug Chef’s Table inside Restaurant Guy Savoy, which has its own menu and bubbly pairings from House of Krug.

For one of the best dining experiences in Las Vegas, check out Joel Robuchon, the only restaurant to receive three Michelin stars. Enjoy the neighboring restaurant, Atelier, with its wraparound bar and open kitchen for a more laid-back dinner.

16. See Vegas from a bird’s eye view

If you’re not afraid of heights (or ready to overcome it), ride the High Roller, the largest observation wheel in the United States. Towering at 550 feet above ground, up to 40 people can ride inside one of the air-conditioned cars for up to 30 minutes. Those adventurous enough to jump aboard will be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Strip, city and desert beyond. When finished, walk along the LINQ Promenade, a 1,200-foot-long open-air shopping, dining and entertainment promenade.

17. Get lost inside the immersive entertainment district

It's hard to articulate if you’ve never been, but AREA15 is one of those places you must see to believe. Held inside a 200,000-square-foot warehouse, AREA15 is known as the immersive entertainment district, and it would be hard not to be entertained there. Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, an interactive art experience, is worth the trip to Area 15 alone.

Also inside AREA15 are zip lining, virtual reality arcades, ax-throwing, a flight simulator, and other cinematic immersions. When your head needs a break from all the mind-bending entertainment, head to the Asylum Bar + Arcade for a cold drink and some old-school arcade games.

18. Fly high at a Cirque du Soleil show

With five different shows scattered across the Vegas Strip, Cirque du Soleil delivers thrilling acrobatic stunts, dazzling light shows and unparalleled artistic performances. Shows include the “O” at Bellagio, KA at MGM Grand, Mad Apple at New York-New York, Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay and Mystere at Treasure Island.

19. Take in the Bellagio Fountains

One of the most iconic attractions in Vegas is the Bellagio Fountains. The show runs multiple times a day, 365 days a year. As one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas , you’re likely to see a steady stream of visitors line the sidewalk to “ooh and ahh” over the dazzling fountains and accompanying music. The show at night is even more impressive when lights illuminate the spectacle.

20. Take a breather at the Wynn

Let’s face it, Vegas can be exhausting. Between the plethora of entertainment and activities, loads of walking, and late nights, staying in Vegas can take a lot out of a person. When you need a break from the noise and lights, visit the Wynn, known for its sophisticated surroundings. Step inside and admire the eye-catching floral displays, perfect for capturing a selfie.

The Wynn holds the only 18-hole golf course on the Strip, complete with lakes, streams and mature trees. If you need to relax further, the Spa at Wynn was the first spa in Vegas to receive a Forbes 5-Star Award.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth going to vegas for 3 days.

Yes, it is worth going to Vegas for three days. With a well-planned Las Vegas trip itinerary , you can experience a variety of top attractions, take in a show, and visit the city's renowned dining and nightlife options.

If you have more than three days, extra time allows you to explore beyond the main tourist spots, like taking a Las Vegas day trip to Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam and enjoy a more leisurely pace.

How can I find the best shows and performances in Vegas?

To find the best shows and performances in Vegas, check official tourism websites and concierge services at your hotel, who can provide recommendations and help with reservations, acting as your local guide to Las Vegas .

What is the best way to get around Las Vegas?

The best way to get around Las Vegas depends on your plans and preferences. For those who prefer not to walk, the monorail, rideshare companies, and taxis run along the strip. A bus service runs 24/7 along the Strip and downtown for those looking to save money. If you plan to head outside of these areas, renting a car may be best.

This article was first published May 20, 2021 and updated Aug 30, 2024.

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This Nevada city offers glitz, glamour, and thrills

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Vegas has come a long way from casinos. Most people now go to Vegas for celebrity chef-helmed restaurants, thrill rides, professional sports, and the great outdoors — and maybe a turn around the blackjack table.

To round up the best things to do in Las Vegas, we enlisted experts: the chef concierge for Wynn Las Vegas, Angelica Miozza; entertainer Colin Cahill, who plays Blue Jackson in Spiegelworld’s Atomic Saloon Show at the Venetian; and long-time resident and senior VP at Kirvin Doak Communications, Natalie Mounier.

From driving race cars to visiting a tranquil aquarium, this is what they recommend.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Hit the Strip for the hottest sporting event in town — the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. See the shows, dig into the fantastic food, and watch the cars zoom around the track.
• Travel to Venice at the Venetian Resort with a gondola ride followed by gelato.
• Take a tranquil walk among more than 2,000 sea creatures in an underwater glass tunnel at the Shark Reef Aquarium.
• Be transported to outer space or a safari complete with elephants, lions, and giraffes at the Illuminarium Las Vegas.
• Watch a show like Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère at the Treasure Island or Awakening at the Wynn, or head to Caesars Palace for concerts from Adele and Garth Brooks.

Get up close to the action at Formula 1.

Ellen Schmidt/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

Make your way to Vegas in time for Formula 1, which takes place Nov. 21-23, 2024. The weekend is stacked with events that will keep you entertained from sunup to, well, sunup the next day. Check out the concerts at The Sphere Grandstands, including One Republic and Ludacris, and even more shows at the East Harmon Zone by Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, including Big Boi and Vandelux. Then, indulge in fantastic food at Ramsay's Garage or the Papi Steak Garage before heading to the track to see the athletes make their tight turns. Get your official tickets here .

Ride a gondola and stroll through St. Mark’s Square.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Three days is enough for Vegas but, if you only do one thing while you're there, visit the Venetian Resort and take a gondola ride. The cruise takes you through a replica of Venice, complete with the Rialto Bridge, a sparkling Grand Canal, and a serenade by your gondolier. Once off your boat, browse the upscale Grand Canal Shoppes, enjoy the street performers, or grab a gelato while you take in the atmosphere of "Italy."

Pretend to be an F1 driver and take a spin in a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or go-cart.

Courtesy of Exotics Racing

At Exotics Racing, driving is extremely exciting, whether you choose a supercar, go-kart, or off-road experience. Steer an exotic car around a racetrack for the thrill of it, or have fun racing a go-kart on an outdoor track. You can even choose a specially built Baja race truck for the ultimate off-road experience.

Take a walk under the sea.

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One of the most fun things to do in Las Vegas for kids is visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium , where you can walk through an underwater glass tunnel as more than 2,000 sea creatures swim around you. The Mandalay Bay attraction includes gracefully floating jellyfish, friendly sea turtles, and sharks gliding through a shipwreck. For an additional fee, you can book an early-entry guided tour if you'd like to feed a stingray.

Go to outer space or on safari at Illuminarium.

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At Illuminarium Las Vegas , 4K laser projection, 3D audio, and special effects create immersive experiences not to be missed. Travel to outer space via images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope or on safari in the African savanna, where incredible animals roam. Check the website for what experiences are available during your Las Vegas visit.

Go skydiving indoors.

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Travelers can experience skydiving without the airplane at the exhilarating Vegas Indoor Skydiving attraction. You can fly on your own (even kids can try it, so long as they're 40 pounds or more), or get a group of six to 10 friends or family members for a 20-minute party with private training and your own block of time in the wind tunnel. 

Sway to the music at the Bellagio fountain show.

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This expansive Bellagio fountain show occurs multiple times a day, every day of the year; check the schedule to make sure you catch it. The romantic spectacle is free, and onlookers line the sidewalk, mesmerized by the beauty of the dancing fountains and the music that plays along with the show.

Observe the Las Vegas Strip from above.

To enjoy panoramic views of the city, hop on High Roller , the largest observation wheel in North America. You’ll ride in one of 28 spacious air-conditioned cabins for 30 minutes, at one point reaching 550 feet above the Strip. Cabins hold up to 40 guests, so grab some friends (and a cocktail or two) for the ride. Note that glass and coolers are not permitted.

Play around at Topgolf.

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Whether or not you're an avid golfer, this is a fun venue to spend a couple of hours or more. Topgolf Las Vegas offers climate-controlled hitting bays, plus music, HDTVs, and a pool (must be at least 21) with cabanas. This is a favorite spot for the Wynn’s Angelica Miozza, who comes to test her golf swing. There's also a sports bar, restaurant, and complimentary golf clubs.

Stroll through an indoor garden.

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Visitors are dazzled by the intricate designs, colors, and beauty of the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens . Each season, the 14,000-square-foot garden is transformed with floral displays, living plants, and water features. In addition to unique designs for each season, a special Lunar New Year garden is created each year.

Catch the light show on Fremont Street downtown.

The largest video canopy in the world is suspended 90 feet above Fremont Street for this dazzling free light show with concert-quality sound. The daily show begins every hour on the hour, between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m. While you’re in the downtown area, check out the SlotZilla zip line, which has an option to fly over the street like a superhero, landing at the historic Golden Gate Hotel and Casino.

Tee off at the only golf course on the Las Vegas Strip.

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Enjoy the gorgeous surroundings of the 18-hole championship course at the Wynn Golf Club . The lush landscape was designed by legendary architect Tom Fazio, who partnered with his son Logan to revisit and enhance his original work. Mature trees, lakes, and streams add both beauty and challenge to the course.

Take a Connoisseur Series class at Wynn Las Vegas.

“For those who love immersive experiences, I recommend attending one of Wynn’s master classes , which provide an intimate experience with the resort’s world-class chefs and industry experts,” Miozza told T+L. “Some of my favorites include learning how to bake baguettes alongside our master baker, filling dumplings with a master dim sum chef, and creating remarkable floral arrangements with the head of horticulture.”

Go hiking in Red Rock Canyon.

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A 13-mile scenic drive from the Strip leads to this park's sandstone hills and canyons, where visitors can explore the area's natural and cultural history. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers miles of hiking trails, and is a great place for rock climbing, mountain biking, picnicking, and horseback riding, all surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

Watch a professional sports game.

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Depending on the season, visitors can see 2023 WNBA champions the Las Vegas Aces , the Las Vegas Lights FC soccer team, Las Vegas Raiders football, or the Vegas Golden Knights NHL team. “In recent years, Las Vegas has been building its credibility as a sports destination,” Miozza says.

Get a Las Vegas history lesson at the Mob Museum.

The Mob Museum is located downtown in the city’s former federal courthouse. Its interactive exhibits highlight notorious gangsters like Al Capone and Bugsy Siegel and famous FBI agents, including J. Edgar Hoover and Eliot Ness. After your mob history lesson, visit the onsite Prohibition-era-styled speakeasy for a cocktail.

Experience Vegas late into the night.

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They say New York is the city that never sleeps, but Vegas doesn't seem to, either. Nightclubs and cocktail lounges abound, and there's always a themed party or DJ set to experience. The city has lots in store for LGBTQ+ travelers, too —  Visit Las Vegas  suggests year-round Pride events and RuPaul's Drag Race Live as some of the options.

Score tickets to a live show.

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Comic Colin Cahill called his Atomic Saloon show “one of my all-time favorite sexy circus comedy cabarets.” There’s also Shin Lim: LIMITLESS at The Mirage, Cirque du Soleil's Mystère at Treasure Island and “O” at the Bellagio, and Awakening at the Wynn. Head to Caesars Palace to see world-class talent like Adele and the newest resident headliner, Garth Brooks. And if you've got kids in tow, they can see a show , too.

Show off your skills at the Pinball Hall of Fame.

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This museum houses the world’s largest pinball machine collection, with vintage machines from the 1960s, '70s, '80s, and beyond. The machines are all restored to like-new condition and are available for visitors to enjoy; at 25 or 50 cents a play, it's a really inexpensive way to have fun in Las Vegas.

Watch the free show at the Lake of Dreams.

“Staged outdoors with open-air patios for viewing, the Wynn Lake of Dreams show is something guests or visitors to Las Vegas may not know about,” Miozza told T + L. “The complimentary multimedia experience blends colorful puppetry, an immersive soundtrack, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.” The show runs nightly every 30 minutes, starting at dusk.

Snap a few photos for the 'gram.

About 20 miles south of the Strip is Seven Magic Mountains , a group of neon-colored totems created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, and a very popular site with shutterbugs. Next, head downtown for a self-guided mural tour , or visit the Museum of Selfies at the LINQ Promenade. And, of course, there’s the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign — a must for every visitor.

Dance to live music.

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Cahill says, “If you’re looking to scoot your boots, my favorite bands to dance to are The Bronx Wanderers and The Spazmatics, both at South Point , and Original Chaos, who you can catch at venues all over town." For more live music venue options, Visit Las Vegas has you covered .

Lose yourself in an immersive experience at The Sphere.

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“Vegas is all about revamping the old and building the new,” Cahill says, specifically pointing to the Sphere , a 17,500-seat structure for concerts and sporting events. With a wraparound LED display and spatial audio system, the venue provides an immersive experience that utilizes visual effects, movement sensations, intense lighting, and even scent and wind simulations.

Visit the Las Vegas Arts District.

When Cahill isn’t playing Blue Jackson in the Atomic Saloon, he enjoys spending time in the Las Vegas Arts District . Located about a mile from downtown and the Fremont Street Experience, this area features shops, restaurants, bars, coffee houses, galleries, theater, live performances, and First Friday events.

Get a bird's-eye view on a FlyOver ride.

“My family and I love FlyOver ,” Natalie Mounier says. “It makes you feel like you’re flying over the most iconic places in the U.S., Canada, and Iceland; you’re sitting inside a spherical screen, surrounded by the most amazing views. As the film dips and turns throughout the locales, the seat moves with you, like you’re flying via helicopter. There are special effects, too — when you fly through a cloud, you feel a light mist on your face.”

Go on another adrenaline-pumping thrill ride.

Head to the Stratosphere for the Big Shot ride and the X-Scream rollercoaster, which dangles you above the Las Vegas Strip. Or, ride the Big Apple Coaster at New York New York — it speeds up to 67 miles per hour.

Shop 'til you drop in a classic Vegas shopping center.

Instead of losing money in the casino, why not exchange money for goods? Great places to do the latter include the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace, the Cosmopolitan Shops , designer shops at the Encore , MGM Grand , and more. At the Downtown Container Park, you can shop , snack , and catch a free concert in one spot.

Take a wellness break.

A spa visit makes for a relaxing and refreshing escape from the hustle of Vegas, and we recommend Caesar’s Palace Qua Baths & Spa . This venue offers three Roman baths, an Arctic Ice Room, and a range of massage and skin care services. Or head to Wynn Las Vegas, where Wynn Living Well offers massages, vitamin IV drip therapies, and other innovative treatments.

Ride the Las Vegas Monorail.

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The Strip often surprises first-time Las Vegas visitors — it's not as easy to walk from one end to the other as you'd think. So, if you're trying to get from point A to point B here, hop on the Las Vegas Monorail . Trains run every four to eight minutes and serve seven stations like Harra's and Caesar's Palace, making it the most convenient mode of transportation on the Strip.

Try your luck in a Vegas casino.

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There are more than 100 casinos in Las Vegas , so no trip here would be complete without wandering through one of these dens of smoke, drinks, and slot machines. Belly up to a blackjack, poker, or craps table and try your luck, or stand back and observe someone else playing — somehow, even just watching casino action is a thrill in Las Vegas.

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15 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas, NV + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | 15 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas, NV + MAP

There are so many things to do in Las Vegas that you could spend weeks here and still not get to see everything. After visiting Sin City several times, we recently moved here, so now we’re closer than ever to some of our favorite places in Nevada , and in the entire U.S.

I can assure you that even if you aren’t into gambling, there are plenty of activities in Las Vegas . The city is an adult playground of casinos, bars, restaurants, and just about any show you can imagine. Of course, there are lots of things for families to do in Las Vegas , too, from magic shows and thrill rides to playing at the arcade or hitting the pool.

Also, keep in mind that some of the top attractions in Las Vegas are in the surrounding areas, so I recommend renting a car in Las Vegas and getting off the beaten path.

In this guide, I’ll help you decide what to do, where to stay, and how to spend your Las Vegas trip so you have the time of your life. As they say, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!”

1. Bellagio Fountains, the most popular attraction in Las Vegas, NV

A walk along the Strip isn’t complete without seeing the famous Bellagio Fountains show. It takes place in front of the Bellagio resort, which is inspired by Italian elegance and luxury.

This attraction was the largest fountain show in the world when it opened, and its jet sprays can shoot water as high as 460 feet. Each part of the fountain is choreographed and set to music and a variety of lighting effects, and different shows take place throughout the night, so it’s something you can watch again and again.

It’s one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas , and you can catch the nightly show every 30 minutes (every 15 minutes after 8 p.m.) Also, while you’re here, it’s worth visiting the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens . It’s open year-round and has themed horticultural displays that change with the seasons.

If you’re interested in other free things to do in Las Vegas , and you like light shows, head to The Mirage resort. This hotel has a Polynesian-inspired volcano that erupts every night in a show of colorful lights, sounds, and a special “smoke” that smells like piña coladas.

The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas hotel is another must-see in Vegas with a free light show, but I’ll talk more about this attraction later.

2. Check out the Fremont Street Experience, a fun thing to do in Las Vegas

The Fremont Street Experience is one of the most interesting places to visit in Las Vegas , and it’s great for all ages. This downtown district is a hotspot for casinos as well as other fun attractions and restaurants.

The area is open all day and night, making it one of the best places in downtown Las Vegas . I recommend going at night so you can see Viva Vision , a free light show with over 12 million LED lights.

If you’re visiting with kids, you must check out Downtown Container Park , an outdoor shopping mall and entertainment complex made of dozens of shipping containers. There is a treehouse playground, a giant, fire-breathing praying mantis sculpture, and a variety of free concerts and shows. The park is kid-friendly until 9 p.m., so it’s a nice thing to do in Vegas during the day .

The Fremont Street Experience is also known for its Slotzilla zipline, which extends for five blocks. You can fly seated or Superman-style from 11 stories up!

As you can see, there are all kinds of things to do in this area, but if you’re short on time, check out this walking tour , which is also included in the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass .

3. Take a helicopter tour, an unforgettable thing to do in Las Vegas, Nevada

A helicopter tour is one of the most unique things you can do in Las Vegas , and it’s sure to make your visit unforgettable. This is such an incredible activity that we have a complete guide on the best helicopter tours from Las Vegas .

Soaring above the Strip and seeing the glitz and glamor from a birds-eye perspective is the best way to get a fresh look at the city. While there are daytime tours, I suggest taking a helicopter ride at sunset, just when the nightlife starts to rev up. This highlights flying tour over the Strip is one of the best options, and perfect if you’re planning a special date night.

While a scenic flight is a great couples activity, it’s also a fun thing to do in Las Vegas as a family . You can even book a helicopter from Vegas to the Grand Canyon . We’ve written about different tour options to the Grand Canyon, but this one is the most popular. If you have the time and the budget for it, I highly recommend it!

4. Ride the High Roller, one of the best things to do in Las Vegas with kids

The High Roller at the LINQ is the highest observation wheel in the world, making it one of the coolest attractions in Las Vegas . It’s open day and night, so it’s another great thing to do in Las Vegas with kids or as a couple.

The Ferris wheel is 550 feet tall, so you’ll be able to get panoramic views of the Strip, greater Las Vegas, and the valley in the distance. Each of its 28 cabins can hold up to 40 people, so it’s perfect for a group activity. Plus, it takes about 30 minutes to do a complete revolution, so you can take your time sightseeing.

Another nice thing about the High Roller is that it’s right on the LINQ Promenade , so after your ride, you can check out all the shops and restaurants. This area is full of Las Vegas entertainment and activities, so there is something for everyone.

Of course, if you plan on riding the High Roller, I recommend buying your ticket in advance or using the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass to avoid long lines.

5. Tour the Mob Museum, a cool thing to do in Las Vegas, NV

A museum day might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sin City, but there are actually amazing institutions here where you can learn more about the city and its history. The Mob Museum is one of the best museums in Vegas , full of artifacts and exhibits that explain the history of organized crime in the U.S.

If you’re into crime shows or movies like The Godfather , you can’t miss this place. During your museum tour, you’ll learn about some of the most infamous mobsters in history, as well as the top agents who fought against the mafia.

In addition, the museum’s basement has a distillery where you can hang out and grab a drink. So, if you’re looking for something to do in Vegas besides gambling , I suggest spending a couple of hours here. The Mob Museum is included in the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass , or you can get a ticket here .

6. Ride a gondola at The Venetian, the best thing to do in Las Vegas as a couple

The Venetian resort is an incredible place to stay, but even if you aren’t a guest here, you can still explore its most popular attraction. Taking a gondola ride at this hotel is a fun thing to do in Las Vegas as a couple , or just with a group of friends.

The resort’s interior is beautifully designed and decorated to look like Venice, Italy, so as you float along the “canal,” you’ll see replicas of Italian landmarks like the Rialto Bridge, San Marcos Square, and St. Mark’s Campanile. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the price is worth it, especially if you want to treat yourself or your partner to something nice.

Moreover, the gondolas travel through the Grand Canal Shoppes , an indoor shopping mall with over 200 stores. Free live performances occur here daily, so you can watch some interesting acts while shopping for souvenirs.

7. Madame Tussauds, something to do in Las Vegas as a family

If the weather doesn’t cooperate or you’re just looking for an indoor activity in Las Vegas , head to Madame Tussauds . This wax museum is one of the most famous in the world, with the largest collection of wax figures.

You’d be surprised how convincing some of these figures look, as the wax artists put all their effort into capturing the essence of these stars, right down to the smallest detail. Plus, the museum has interactive exhibits and galleries related to specific celebrities, athletes, and fictional characters. Bring the kids along and snap a photo with Taylor Swift or Brad Pitt and pose next to Captain America or The Hulk.

This is a Las Vegas attraction that you can enjoy with teens, too, so it’s a great option for a family trip. The museum even has a virtual reality room and a bar, so it’s a fun place for adults, too. Madame Tussauds is super popular, so you should get your ticket in advance . It’s included in the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass , or you can get this combo ticket that includes Madame Tussauds and a Venetian gondola ride.

8. Visit a casino, another one of the best things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada

Visiting a casino is a must-do in Vegas , even if you’re not a gambler. Just seeing the different poker rooms and gaming areas is an experience, as each casino has a unique atmosphere. Many hotels on and off the Strip have casino floors, but there are a few that stand out.

First, Caesars Palace is a haven for those who love table games. Along with classics like blackjack and craps, you’ll also find Spanish 21, roulette, and baccarat. There are also some 1,300 slots, video poker, and keno.

If you’re a poker aficionado, head to The Venetian and press your luck. There are actually two casinos here, The Venetian and The Palazzo, so you’ll have your pick of any game you want. In addition to its wide array of slots and video poker machines, there are live tournaments as well as race and sports betting.

The Golden Nugget is one of the oldest casinos in Las Vegas , and it’s worth visiting even if you don’t want to gamble. The historic resort has a famous shark tank waterslide and the world’s largest golden nugget, plus it’s not far from some of the best things to do in downtown Las Vegas .

The STRAT has a laid-back atmosphere where you can play progressive slots, a variety of table games, or wager a sports bet. I also suggest checking out The Wynn , which has a 111,000ft² casino with high-limit lounges. The hotel’s other facilities are just as impressive, including poolside gaming, a beach club/nightclub, and the kid-friendly Lake of Dreams show.

9. See a show, another thing you must do in Las Vegas

Another thing you must do in Las Vegas is to see a show . Sin City hosts world-class performances, from musicians and theater troupes to comedians and magicians. The roster includes something for everyone, so whether you’re looking for an adults-only show or something to see with the kids, you’ll find it here.

One of the most popular shows in Las Vegas is Cirque du Soleil, and there are different performances at several hotels. Each colorful spectacle is an incredible display of acrobatics, theater, circus acts, and storytelling, and I’m always amazed at the incredible feats.

Kà at MGM Grand is a beautiful coming-of-age story, while Mystère at Treasure Island is one of the most whimsical Cirque shows. The Bellagio hosts O , an impressive water show with aquatic acrobatics. There are even celebrity-themed shows like Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay and The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage .

There are also concerts and residency shows throughout the year. All genres and music styles are represented, with big names like Usher, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and Keith Urban. You can check the schedule and buy tickets online here .

Finally, there are classic entertainment acts in Vegas like burlesque, variety shows, circus acts, and adult shows like The Chippendales and Thunder From Down Under . So, whether you’re visiting with family, for a bachelorette party, or something else, there is a show for you.

10. Photograph the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, a popular thing to do in Las Vegas

The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is one of the places you must visit in Las Vegas . This iconic sign has been greeting visitors since 1959, and it’s one of the best photo spots on the Strip.

The sign is located at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South, next to the Bali Hai Golf Club and not far from Mandalay Bay Resort. Stopping here is the perfect way to start your trip in Sin City, and it’s free to visit day and night.

We couldn’t resist getting a photo taken here during our trip; after all, it’s one of the most famous attractions on the Vegas Strip . It’s also a cheap thing to do in Vegas , although keep in mind that you may have to wait in line. For us, it was worth it to get a romantic photo and commemorate our visit.

11. Visit The STRAT for the most thrilling attractions in Las Vegas and the best views

The STRAT hotel and casino is one of the most entertaining places to visit in Las Vegas . While the resort has a showroom and indoor shopping mall, it’s most famous for its SkyPod observation deck , where you can get some of the best views in Las Vegas .

At 1,149 feet tall, the SkyPod is the 2nd-highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. Near the top, you’ll find a revolving restaurant, cocktail lounges, and even a wedding chapel. The outdoor viewing deck on the 109th floor is among the most popular tourist attractions in Las Vegas .

If you’re seeking a thrill, it doesn’t get much better than the STRAT, especially if you go to the very top. This is where you’ll find a few extreme thrill rides, including a free-fall, bungee jumping, and an attraction that hangs over the edge of the deck. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re daring enough to try, you can use the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass , which also includes access to the SkyPod.

12. Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, a romantic thing to do in Las Vegas

Earlier I mentioned the Eiffel Tower viewing deck at Paris Las Vegas , which has a nightly light show. This free show occurs every 30 minutes and bathes the structure in the colors of the French flag. While it’s a fun thing to do in Las Vegas with kids, it’s even better with your partner.

This resort brings the romance of Paris, France to Sin City, so it’s one of the best places to go as a couple. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can go to the top of the viewing deck and gaze at the dazzling Strip below. It’s the perfect nighttime attraction in Vegas , so book your ticket in advance or use the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass .

The Las Vegas Eiffel Tower is 540 feet tall, which is only half the size of the original structure. However, it provides a wonderful vantage point, and there is even a French restaurant on the 11 th floor where you can dine on elegant dishes like Beef Wellington, potato gratin, and crème brulée.

13. Visit the Neon Museum, one of the best things to do in Las Vegas at night

The Neon Museum is another one of the best places to visit in Las Vegas , especially if you’re looking to get a break from the Strip. This curious attraction has all kinds of casino and business signs from years gone by, and it’s considered one of the best museums in Las Vegas.

The Visitor Center is actually the old La Concha Motel, and inside, you can learn about the museum’s origins as a simple neon sign collection. By 1996, the collection expanded into a museum where visitors can explore vintage electric and neon signage from decades past.

The museum is kid-friendly and interesting for all ages, although you should be careful that the little ones don’t scratch themselves on anything. While it’s open during the day, I think this is a cool thing to do in Las Vegas at night , when you can see the glowing colors of the signs.

14. Go to a nightclub, one of the most exciting things to do in Las Vegas, NV

Without a doubt, one of the coolest things to do in Las Vegas is to party at a nightclub . All along the Strip and in downtown Vegas, you’ll find some of the top clubs in the country.

One of the best Las Vegas nightclubs is Omnia at Caesars Palace , which has a massive stage and an incredible outdoor terrace. It’s the perfect spot to dance the night away with friends. Hakkasan Nightclub at MGM Grand is another premier destination, with five floors and a pavilion with an outdoor garden, DJ booth, and bar. It’s open until 4 a.m., so it attracts all the night owls and serious party-goers.

For a girls’ night out or bachelor party in Las Vegas , check out Drai’s Nightclub at The Cromwell . It has some of the best live music in Vegas and has hosted performers like Keyshia Cole, French Montana, and Gucci Mane.

If you can’t decide where to go, this VIP nightclub tour will take you to several hotspots in Las Vegas and let you skip the line.

15. Get married and have Elvis walk you down the aisle in a Las Vegas wedding

Sin City is a fascinating place to visit with friends, as a group, or with your sweetheart, and one of the most unique things to do in Vegas is to tie the knot. Thousands of couples, some of them celebrities, get married in Sin City every year. Be it a pretend wedding or real nuptials, it’s a couples’ activity you won’t find anywhere else.

There are several famous Las Vegas wedding chapels , but one of the best is Graceland , where Elvis walks the bride down the aisle and sings his greatest hits. Attending or participating in an Elvis wedding is an unforgettable thing to do in Las Vegas , and it’s quite popular, so be sure to book in advance .

Other nice wedding venues on the Strip include the Chapel of the Flowers and the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel . So, whether it’s a legitimate wedding or simply a figurative ceremony to express your love, it’s something that can only happen in Vegas.

Best day trips from Las Vegas

While there are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas , if you’re staying in this city for a few days, be sure to check out the surrounding areas. There are so many awesome day trips from Las Vegas , so I highly recommend visiting one or two of the sites below.

Also, in our experience, renting a car in Las Vegas is the easiest way to travel in Las Vegas and beyond. However, if you don’t want to drive, there are many great tours available, so you can still enjoy the best things to do around Vegas .

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

Less than an hour from the Strip, you’ll find the Hoover Dam , an amazing feat of human engineering. Here, you can take a self-guided tour through the Visitors Center, learn about the dam’s history and legacy, and look at models of its power systems and infrastructure. There are also a few scenic trails and overlooks.

While it’s easy to get to, there are several great Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas . This 3-hour tour takes you to the dam and stops at Boulder City and Lake Mead along the way. You’ll walk across the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge and enjoy sweeping views of the dam, the Colorado River, and Lake Mead.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area covers nearly 1.5 million acres of shorelines, piers, wilderness areas, and the country’s largest reservoir, which was created by the Hoover Dam. If you’re looking to do some outdoor activities near Las Vegas , this place is perfect, especially for watersports and kayaking.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is only a couple of hours from the city, so it’s no wonder why it is one of the most popular attractions near Las Vegas . There are all kinds of Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas , so you can find the one that fits your interests and budget.

I recommend taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour so you can see the full magnitude of this natural wonder. The Grand Canyon Voyager is one of my favorites since it includes an airplane ride over the West Rim, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River, plus a below-the-rim landing by helicopter.

This tour also gives you time to explore the most popular lookouts on the West Rim, like Guano Point and Eagle Point. We loved this one and would do it again in a heartbeat. You can even upgrade the tour to include access to the famous Skywalk.

For something cheaper, this South Rim tour is an excellent choice. A bus will pick you up from your Vegas hotel, then drive along historic Route 66 to the Grand Canyon. There, you’ll visit the lookouts at Mather Point and Bright Angel and take a vista hike to see the sprawling South Rim. It’s an incredible thing to do near Las Vegas if you have time.

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is less than 30 minutes from Sin City, so you can’t pass it up. Here, you can enjoy hiking trails for all fitness levels, so it’s a great place to visit near Las Vegas with kids. The Lost Creek – Children’s Discovery Trail is an awesome route with a waterfall, although it’s also worth exploring the Calico Tanks and Calico Hills trails.

Some other highlights include Ice Box Canyon and the Petroglyph Wall, so be sure to dedicate a few hours to exploring this place. It’s an excellent thing to do in Vegas during the day , and there is even a Scenic Drive that you can take if you get tired. Of course, if you aren’t renting a car, you can take a tour from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon , like this one .

Valley of Fire

Just 45 minutes from Las Vegas, you can discover the Valley of Fire , an impressive state park full of sandstone formations and ancient rock art. This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Las Vegas , so be sure to bring your camera.

Make your way along the scenic drive past rocky formations and some of the park’s top sights. It’s also worth hiking the trails to see stunning landscapes and natural structures like the aptly-named Pink Canyon, Arch Rock, and Elephant Rock.

You also can’t miss the Fire Wave, a striated slickrock; or the Rainbow Vista, which boasts a landscape of reds, pinks, oranges, yellows, and grays. There are different Valley of Fire tours from Vegas , although I like this guided hike , and consider it to be one of the best outdoor things to do near Las Vegas .

Area 51 is a wonderland for anyone interested in aliens and the paranormal, and it’s just a few hours from Vegas. This full-day trip is a good Area 51 tour from Las Vegas and includes a visit to the so-called “Janet Airlines” at McCarran airport and the mysterious Black Mailbox for UFO enthusiasts seeking alien contact. This bus tour also travels along the Extraterrestrial Highway and right up to the perimeter of Area 51, the world’s most top-secret military facility.

The National Atomic Testing Museum is nearby and has an Area 51 exhibit as well as all kinds of propaganda and artifacts from the Nevada Test Site. Visiting these attractions is an unusual thing to do in Las Vegas , but highly entertaining, especially if you’re fascinated by the concept of aliens.

Death Valley

Death Valley is my favorite place to visit in the Southwestern United States, and it’s one of the most interesting places to visit near Las Vegas . Located two hours away in the Mojave Desert, it’s the second-largest national park in the country and has the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen.

Moreover, there are several Death Valley tours from Las Vegas , although I prefer this full-day tour . You’ll see popular sites like the Mesquite Flat sand dunes and the salt flat at Badwater Basin, as well as stunning viewpoints like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

You’ll also visit the Artist’s Palette, a colorful landscape caused by oxidized minerals, and the Devil’s Golf Course, an intriguing area with fabulous formations.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is full of majestic views and invigorating hikes, so if you’re outdoorsy, this is a must-see during your visit to Las Vegas . There are too many things to list here, but you should know some of the highlights of this impressive national park.

First, The Narrows is a magnificent water-carved gorge that you can trek through and a great alternative if you can’t get a permit to see The Subway (another area of the park in which visitors are chosen by lottery).

The hike to Angels Landing is tricky, but worth it for the 360° views. However, if you’re traveling with kids, the Emerald Pools trail is also very nice. You also can’t miss the imposing formations here, like the three peaks of the Court of the Patriarchs.

Ideally, visiting Zion is something to do during a weekend in Las Vegas , but if you don’t have that time and still want to go, you can take this excursion . It’s one of the best Zion tours from Las Vegas and includes a stop at nearby Bryce Canyon , which is known for its hoodoos, which are intriguing geological formations that look otherworldly.

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Hands down, Antelope Canyon is one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas and a photographer’s dream. This slot canyon is made of water-carved sandstone and is known for its unique formations. Walking through this place is a magical experience, especially when the beams of sunlight poke through the walls and illuminate the canyon floor.

You’ll get the best photos at Upper Antelope Canyon, but Lower Antelope Canyon is just as gorgeous. Plus, it tends to be less crowded, so you’ll enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. We have a guide to the best Antelope Canyon tours from Vegas , but I’ll tell you now that this small-group tour is an excellent option, and it includes nearby Horseshoe Bend .

Horseshoe Bend is just 15 minutes from Antelope Canyon and a must-see for its dramatic viewpoint. Located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this incised meander along the Colorado River creates a unique horseshoe shape, which you can see from the 1,000-foot-tall cliff next to it.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

On the Strip, off the Strip, in downtown Las Vegas…there are lots of options if you want to spend the night. You can find hotels for all budgets, as well as kid-friendly resorts and luxury accommodations for a romantic getaway.

We have a full list of the best places to stay in Vegas , but these are a few of my top recommendations:

• Luxury : The Bellagio is one of the best hotels in Las Vegas , not only for the Bellagio Fountains show but for its glamorous suites and facilities.
• Mid-price : Mandalay Bay is an affordable place to stay with family, and along with having one of the best pools in Las Vegas , it has premier performance venues, a casino, a nightclub, and a spa.
• Budget : Excalibur is proof that you can stay in a beautiful resort without breaking the bank. This cheap hotel in Las Vegas has an arcade, a pool complex, and several residency shows.

Best restaurants in Las Vegas

Eating at some of the best restaurants in Las Vegas will ensure that you stay satisfied and energized throughout your trip. There are several awesome places to eat here with all kinds of cuisines and at varying price points.

First, Sin City has some amazing fine restaurants to enjoy a gourmet meal. The meats at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Bazaar Meat by José Andrés are divine, and both restaurants are ideal for a special date night.

If you prefer hearty Italian food, check out La Strega for traditional pastas and delicious seafood paired with wine. For something more casual, I recommend Soulbelly BBQ , which serves mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and wings, as well as soul food favorites like mac n cheese.

Of course, going out for drinks is part of the Las Vegas experience , so be sure to visit one of the best rooftop bars in Sin City . We loved the Foundation Room , a sophisticated lounge at Mandalay Bay with expert mixologists and dancing.

The VooDoo Lounge at the Rio Hotel is also very fun, and it’s on the 51 st floor, so the views are great. The patio has a dance floor where you can listen to live DJs and mingle. If you’re on the northern end of the Strip, check out the 108 Drinks Lounge at The STRAT  for happy hour and panoramic views.

Map of Las Vegas

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Las Vegas ! Don’t forget to download this map with all the Las Vegas attractions , hotels, and restaurants I mentioned. We also have other Las Vegas tourist maps if you’d like to see specific parts of the city.

If you have any questions, or you’d like to share your favorite things to do in Las Vegas , leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you! Have an incredible trip to Sin City!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 15 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas, NV + MAP ”

My parents are planning to go to Las Vegas, where they’ll spend their vacation, which is why they’re currently looking for restaurants and other places to visit. We’ll keep in mind to visit the Golden Nugget Las Vegas since it’s the largest and oldest casino. It’s also a good thing that you shared here the advantage of visiting the Belaggio water show.

There are many things to do in Las Vegas, so I’m sure they are going to enjoy it!

Let me know if you need anything else 🙂

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Nevada (NV) » 55 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas (Nevada)

55 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas (Nevada)

A louche neon city of high-rise megaresorts, high kitsch and every form of entertainment under the sun, Las Vegas is about cutting loose and throwing caution to the wind.

The Entertainment Capital of the World is a proving ground for leisure concepts, crashing together ideas that would be mismatched anywhere else in the world.

A rock show bowling alley? A cocktail bar inside a chandelier? A high-tech driving range with DJs and table service? A mall with a retractable runway and fashion shows on the hour? A birdlife reserve in the middle of a casino? Yep, they’re all here.

And in their battle to lure punters, Sin City’s resorts lay on blockbuster concerts, turbo-charged nightlife, cutting-edge dining and free to enter attractions.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Las Vegas:

1. The Strip

This 4.2-mile stretch of the South Las Vegas Boulevard has starred in so many movies and TV shows that actually being here, watching Bellagio’s fountains and Mirage’s Volcano, might feel surreal.

Las Vegas never stands still, and a photo taken this year will soon look dated.

In spring 2019 no fewer than six major projects were in the pipeline, while in the last few years the strip’s profile has evolved with the High Roller Ferris Wheel at the LINQ promenade.

Any resort worth its chips is on the Las Vegas Strip, and the scale of these complexes is mind-boggling.

Six of the world’s ten largest hotels are right here, and most will try to draw you in with a forecourt attraction.

A whole system of elevated walkways link resorts, shops and performance venues, helping you avoid a busy road full of distracted drivers.

If you’re using the east side of the Strip, the Las Vegas Monorail connects a string of megaresorts and entertainment venues, like MGM Grand Caesars Palace and the future MSG Sphere.

2. Vegas Residencies

A Concert Residency is a concept that was born in Las Vegas, starting in the 1940s with Liberace.

By the mid-1950s Mr Showtime was earning $50,000 a week at the now defunct Riviera Hotel and Casino.

Even though artists from Sinatra to Elvis to Celine Dion have had extended runs at Las Vegas resorts for more than 70 years, you could say that we’re living through the golden age of the Las Vegas residency today.

These are no longer just a fallback for veteran artists and a loss leader for resorts, as breakout stars and artists at the peak of their careers now join a big roll-call of classic acts.

In 2019 Cardi B (KAOS at the Palms), Drake (XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas), Lady Gaga (Park Theater) and Bruno Mars (Park Theater) were all in town for the long run, together with household names like Janet Jackson, Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, Santana, Mariah Carey, Cher and Sting.

Related Show : Legends in Concert at the Tropicana Tickets

3. Caesars Palace

If one resort could capture the hedonistic spirit of Las Vegas it’s the marble halls of Caesars Palace, unveiled in 1966 and designed to echo the splendour of a Roman emperor’s residence through the lens of a Hollywood epic movie.

Since its earliest days, Caesars Palace has been geared towards high rollers, and in its restaurant portfolio includes restaurants preparing authentic Chinese cuisine to cater to rich East Asian gamblers.

Perhaps the premier restaurant in a strong field is Restaurant Guy Savoy, the only restaurant by this revered Michelin-starred chef outside of Paris.

Since Frank Sinatra’s residency in the 1960s, Caesar’s Palace has always had more than a sprinkle of stardust.

It was here that Celine Dion redefined the notion of a Vegas residency with her spell at the Colosseum in the 2000s.

She was headlining again in 2019, along with Jerry Seinfeld and Rod Stewart.

We’ve come this far and not even mentioned the ritzy Forum Shops at Caesars, which outstrips Rodeo Drive for sales, with more than 150 mid-range and high-end boutiques and restaurants.

4. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Pack a lunch, strike out west of the Strip and within half an hour you’ll be in a gnarled and reddish sandstone landscape rising to more than 900 metres.

Trails ranging from short loops to day hikes might carry you to lookouts on the lip of canyons with temporary waterfalls in early-spring.

You’ll venture past strange Aztec or deep red sandstone outcrops caused by iron oxide in the rock, and to places where the Paiute culture left handprints in the rock, petroglyphs or centuries-old roasting pits.

While this is an environment for rock-climbing and horseback-riding, you can see the best of Red Rock Canyon’s tortured geology from your car on a 13-mile loop.

The conservation area is a habitat for the threatened desert tortoise, and while you probably won’t spot one out in the wild there’s an enclosure at the Visitor Center with two males and eight females.

Recommended tour : Red Rock Canyon Small Group Tour from Las Vegas

5. Nightclubs

You don’t need us to tell you that Las Vegas is the world’s biggest party town and the home of thumping EDM.

But maybe you haven’t realised the lengths that the Megaresorts like Mirage, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Cosmopolitan and Bellagio will go to outdo each other.

For theatricality nothing tops Light at Mandalay Bay, which has Cirque du Soleil-level acrobats over the dancefloor.

Hakkasan at MGM Grand is literally the largest nightclub in the world, bringing Tiësto, Steve Aoki and Calvin Harris to the party, and with a sound system that needs to be heard to be believed.

Jewel at Aria Resort & Casino was created by the Hakkasan group and deals in sheer opulence, with flash LED ribbons, handcrafted leather banquettes around the dance floor and five themed mezzanine VIP suites with custom amenities.

Honourable mention must be made to Tao Nightlcub at the Venetian, Hakkasan’s Omnia at Caesars Palace and the gold-plated XS Nightclub at Wynn, the most expensive club ever built.

Available tour : Vegas’s #1 Club Crawl 4-Hour Party Experience

Las Vegas’ knack of generating moments of awe and wonder extends to its wellness and relaxation amenities.

The Spa at Encore for instance is down a lantern-lit corridor, like a portal to an opulent wonderland.

On the extensive menu are some outlandish treatments like a synchronised massage with two therapists, a “Good Luck Ritual” and a Citrus Soufflé Body and Facial Treatment, to name a small few.

The award-winning Qua at Caesars Palace has three Roman baths and the world’s only Arctic Room, producing artificial snow.

And if you really want to get decadent The Spa and Salon at Aria offers a diamond and white jade facial for a mere $380 for 80 minutes.

Also packing plenty of “first-in-Vegas” amenities is the Spa at LINQ, which boasts a Himalayan salt therapy cave, infusing the air with high-quality salt to benefit the skin and respiratory system.

7. Celebrity Chef Restaurants

Where once it was associated with uninspired all-you-can-eat buffets, Las Vegas has blossomed as a world-class dining destination.

As with the world’s top musical talent, the stars of the culinary arts have found their niche on the Las Vegas Strip, where every megaresort brims with restaurants by celebrity chefs.

Nowhere else on earth has this sort of concentration.

Wolfgang Puck has five, and “Cut” at The Palazzo is a standout.

Gordon Ramsay’s name appears five times as well, including three at Caesars Palace alone.

Guy Fieri, who pretty much encapsulates Las Vegas, is represented by Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen & Bar at the LINQ hotel and El Burro Borracho at the Rio Hotel.

For leading-edge Spanish cuisine, look no further than É by José Andrés, while Thomas Keller’s Bouchon is all about urbane French bistro favourites.

Finally, Emeril Lagasse’s New Orleans Fish House has stood the test of time at the MGM Grand for more than 20 years, an eternity in Las Vegas.

Related activity : Secret Food Tours Las Vegas

8. Bellagio

If you’ve seen Ocean’s Eleven (2001) a lot of Bellagio will be familiar to you, but it needs to be witnessed in person.

The 3,015-room resort opened in 1998 and is named for the Lake Como town of the same name.

We’ll talk about the famous fountains next, and the exquisite conservatory, which are both attractions in their own right.

Even if you’re just passing by, you have to check out the lobby, which has a gorgeous glass flower sculpture on its ceiling by the great Dale Chihuly.

The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art opens for seasonal exhibitions, which in the past have featured Alexander Calder, Andy Warhol, luminaries of Impressionism, Ansel Adams and the decorative art of England’s stately home Chatsworth House.

As for gaming, the Bellagio has welcomed several World Poker Tour tournaments, and the poker room is the haunt of some of the world’s top players for its high table limits.

For the ultimate in fine dining, there’s the two Michelin-starred Picasso, while among the Bellagio Shops are Prada, Guerlain, Tiffany & Co. and Gucci.

Last but not least, the water-themed O by Cirque du Soleil is set in and around a 5,700 cubic-litre pool and involves 85 acrobats and trained swimmers.

9. Fountains of Bellagio

A spectacle that will live long in the memory, the magnificent five-minute water and light show in front of the Bellagio takes place on the half-hour from 15:00 in the afternoon and then every 15 minutes after eight.

The world’s largest fountain until 2010 has more than 1,200 nozzles and a musical playlist that cycles through Whitney Houston’s rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner”, “Your Song” by Elton John, “Luck Be a Lady” by Frank Sinatra and “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion, among others.

The lights illuminating the Bellagio turn to purple during the show, or red, white and blue for the more patriotic songs.

There are also seasonal promotions, like the Game of Thrones Theme to mark Season 8 in spring 2019. An interesting piece of trivia is that the fountain’s eight-acre replica of Lake Como is fed by a freshwater well that was first sunk to irrigate a golf course.

10. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Open to the public, Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a glorious free attraction beside the hotel’s lobby.

Under an intricate Beaux-Arts-style glass canopy with a copper frame, this attraction employs the resort’s team of 120 horticulturalists and landscape designers, producing beautiful rotating displays with mesmerising floral arrangements, bridges, ponds and gazebos.

Poinsettia and a giant Christmas tree set the tone in the holiday season.

Then at Chinese New Year you’ll find displays for the year’s zodiac animal, together with orchids and bromeliads.

In 2019 there was a Japan-themed spring show, with a replica of Osaka Castle and abundant cherry blossoms.

In summer the gardens take on a patriotic colour scheme, dominated by red, white and blue, and then chrysanthemums, pumpkin crops and russet tones take over for autumn.

11. High Roller

Las Vegas breaks records for fun, and in 2014 a gargantuan world-beater took its place on the Strip opposite Caesars Palace.

As of 2019 the High Roller was still the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, at a dizzyinh 167.6 metres.

The wheel has 28 passenger cabins, each of which can hold 40 people.

The cabins have their own electric motors to ensure maximum stability as the wheel turns.

After sunset the wheel is illuminated by more than 2,000 LEDs, while each of the cabins has eight flat-screen monitors.

Each revolution takes 30 minutes, and if you want the full Vegas experience you and your group can upgrade to the Open Bar Cabin for a genuine “happy half hour”!

Book online : Skip the Line Ticket: The High Roller at The LINQ

12. MGM Grand

Massive, even by Las Vegas standards, the MGM Grand is the United States’ biggest single hotel, with 6,852 rooms.

You could devote an article this size to the MGM Grand’s cornucopia of dining options and entertainment facilities, but for this paragraph we have to be ultra focussed.

The pick of the dining choices has to be L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon founded by France’s “Chef of the Century” and each dish is prepared and plated right in front of you.

The gaming floor is among the largest on the Strip, with 2,500 machines and 139 table games.

The 17,157-capacity MGM Grand Garden Arena has hosted some historic boxing bouts, like the infamous “bite fight” between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, and Manny Pacquiao’s victory over Oscar de la Hoya in the “Dream Match” in 2008. Premiered in 2004, Kà by Cirque du Soleil has production values that would put most Hollywood movies to shame, and is still one of the must-see shows for anyone visiting Vegas for the first time.

13. Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck

At 350.2 metres, this needle shooting up from the Stratosphere hotel and casino complex is the second-tallest observation tower in the Western Hemisphere.

On the way to Downtown Las Vegas, this landmark is slightly removed from the Las Vegas Strip, which gives it a great perspective of the megaresorts to the south, as well as the Spring Mountains to the northwest.

There are two observation decks for 360° views, and a revolving restaurant, Top of the World.

You can take a free ride to the 107 Skylounge bar if you’re just going up for drinks.

In true Vegas style, the outdoor observation deck is more than a spot to stand still and admire the view.

There are four rides at the top of the tower, like Big Shot, a tower ride launching you 50 metres above the observation deck, and SkyJump Las Vegas, a high-speed 261-metre descent similar to a bungee jump.

Included in : Las Vegas Explorer Pass: Over 45 Attractions & Tours

14. The Venetian

Both the second-largest casino in the world and the second-largest hotel complex in the world, The Venetian has teleported Venice to Las Vegas.

Loving reproductions of St Mark’s Campanile, St Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge and the Doge’s Palace took shape in the late-90s.

One of the very best free things to do in Las Vegas is to marvel at the detail of this replica city at the Grand Canal Shoppes, with more than 200 upmarket stores, attractions like Madame Tussauds and eateries like Wolfgang Puck’s Cut.

A gondola ride down the Grand Canal is utterly surreal, in true Vegas fashion.

There’s profuse Renaissance-style painting, most remarkable in the ceiling of the mall’s entrance hall and in the grand barrel-vaulted gallery from the main reception to the casino.

It can be difficult to comprehend the size of the Venetian complex.

There are four theatres, six clubs and 4,049 rooms, while the adjoining Palazzo is the tallest completed hotel in the city at 53 storeys and 196 metres.

15. Death Valley National Park

The largest national park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley is also the hottest, driest and lowest.

Your first destination has to be Badwater Basin, a salt flat 86 metres below sea level and the second-lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.

In winter, spring and autumn you can make the short hike to view the basin’s famed polygonal salt formations.

Artists Drive is a nine-mile road through desert hills ranging from white to red, while Devil’s Golf Course is a massive spread of rock salt eroded into jagged spikes.

For all-encompassing vistas of Death Valley, Dante’s View is on a terrace at 1,669 metres, posted above Badwater Basin, Devil’s Golf Course to the Panamint Range to the west, the Owlshead Mountains to the south and the Funeral Mountains to the North.

Top rated tour : Death Valley NP Full-Day Small Groups Tour from Las Vegas

16. Hoover Dam

One of the great monuments to American engineering in the 20th century is within striking distance of Las Vegas and demands a visit.

Damming the fast-flowing Colorado River, this Great Depression-era project formed Lake Mead, the largest water reservoir in the United States when full.

Boulder City, an entire model town was built for the Hoover Dam’s tens of thousands of workers, more than 100 of whom perished during construction.

In this time the population of Las Vegas also swelled, tripling from its modest 5,000. The dam effectively blocks the volcanic Boulder Canyon to a height of more than 224 metres, and was the largest dam in the world when it was finished in 1936 after just five years of construction.

Initially this immense construction was an unremarkable wall of concrete, but with an eye to establishing the dam as a visitor attraction, the Los Angeles architect George B.

Kaufmann was called in to spruce up the aesthetics, furnishing it with its alluring Art Deco contours.

If you don’t have a car, you could take the Express Shuttle, Deluxe or Three-Hoover Dam Tour through GetYourGuide.com , with pick up and drop off from most Las Vegas Strip hotels.

17. Wynn Las Vegas

Unlike most Las Vegas resorts, the upscale Wynn has a reserved presence on the Strip without sidewalk attractions.

When it was completed in 2005 it was the tallest hotel building in Las Vegas, and is still in the top eight largest hotels in the world.

Many of the amenities at Wynn Las Vegas are the best in town, like the buffet, which has 15 live-action cooking stations, or the blissful Spa at Wynn.

When we wrote this article in 2019 Drake was just beginning a residency at the XS Nightclub, one of a raft of A-list performers to take the stage at this venue.

Intrigue Nightclub has a sublime patio space with a waterfall and pyrotechnics, while the Encore Beach Club boasts three tiered pools.

For more live entertainment Le Rêve remains a stunning accomplishment, with 90 performers in an aquatic theatre-in-the-round.

In keeping with Wynn’s sleek identity, the new Wynn Plaza mall features luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Kenzo and Diptyque.

18. New York-New York

In the 1990s a chunk of the New York skyline landed on the Las Vegas Strip.

This MGM hotel and casino is a love letter to the Big Apple, evoking New York’s Art Deco classics like the Empire State Building and Chrysler, and incorporating replicas of the Statue of Liberty, Grand Central Station and the main building on Ellis Island.

The Big Apple Roller Coaster, as it’s known, has trains that resemble New York taxis and has a maximum drop of 44 metres and two inversions.

The dining options are as cosmopolitan as you’d hope from a resort themed on New York, and Gallagher’s Steakhouse, an NY original is the cream.

Of course, it wouldn’t be New York without a pizza place, an Irish pub, hot dogs and an Italian joint (Il Fornaio). Strictly for grown-ups, Zumanity is a daring burlesque/cabaret hybrid, with Cirque du Soleil’s typical exuberance.

Outside, The Park is a swish dining and entertainment area sprinkled with sculpture and set around the new T-Mobile Arena, which we’ll cover below.

19. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

The description of this sight is in the title, but for a first-timer this Space Age sign from 1959 is as essential as anything in Las Vegas.

Designed by graphic designer Betty Willis, one of the people credited with shaping the city’s visual identity, the sign was never trademarked and so has spawned replicas around the city.

You’ll find the original at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South, standing 7.66 metres tall and crested with its signature red star trimmed with yellow neon.

At any time of day there will be one or two people, normally dressed as Elvis or a showgirl, offering to take a photo of groups and couples for tips.

20. Eiffel Tower

In 1999 a cluster of Parisian monuments sprouted on the Las Vegas Strip, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde’s La Fontaine des Mers.

This of course is the Paris Las Vegas hotel and casino, now permanently engrained in everyone’s mental picture of the Strip.

That half-scale Eiffel Tower also happens to be one of the best viewpoints in the whole city.

This is 47 storeys above the Las Vegas Strip with a fabulous perspective of the Bellagio Fountain Show, so it’s something worth doing after sunset.

But if you do go up during the day you can spy Mount Charleston and the rest of the Spring Mountains, capped with snow in winter.

Taking its cues from the original Eiffel Tower’s light shows, the Las Vegas equivalent has its own free spectacle, every 30 minutes on the hour and half-hour between sunset and midnight.

Book online : Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck Skip-the-Line Ticket

21. The Mirage

The Polynesian-themed Mirage has a rainforest in its atrium, a huge aquarium behind its registration desk and is heralded by its volcano, which erupts at 20:00, 21:00 and 22:00 accompanied by music from the Zakir Hussein and the Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart.

For 13 years the resort was associated with Siegfried & Roy, and the pair have left their mark with the family attraction, Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

At a specially built theatre, Cirque du Soleil’s Love blends circus performs with songs by the Beatles, reworked by their producer George Martin and his son Giles Martin.

At the time of writing, Boyz II Men were in residence, accompanied by the Aces of Comedy series, booking comedians like Iliza Schlesinger, Jim Jefferies, Jay Leno and David Spade + Ray Romano.

The perennial headliner at the Mirage is Terry Fator and his famous ventriloquist show.

When it comes to dining, take your pick from Italian seafood at Osteria Costa, sushi at Otoro, American classics at LVB Burgers and Bar and steak with a modern twist at Tom Colicchio’s Heritage Steak.

22. Mob Museum

Just north of Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas is the Las Vegas Post Office and Courthouse (1933), scene of one of the 14 Kefauver Committee hearings across the country in the early-1950s to expose organised crime.

Since 2012 this fabled setting has become a museum lifting the lid on the city’s shadiest secrets, and recounting the history of organized crime in the United States.

This is no place for children, not least because exhibitions like Mob’s Greatest Hits depict grisly crime scenes.

You investigate the mob’s involvement in nefarious activities like drugs, prostitution, money laundering, illegal gambling and bootlegging, and the efforts of law enforcement to get the upper hand, both here and across America.

There’s a lot of interactivity to keep you engaged, like a crime lab that lets you compare your prints with the most notorious gangsters and video testimonials screened through slot machines.

The Use of Force Training Experience puts you in the shoes of a police officer, as you make split-second, life-or-death decisions.

If you need to wet your whistle, downstairs is the Underground bar, designed like a prohibition-era speakeasy.

Get tickets : Mob Museum General Admission

23. Fremont Street Experience

Reinvention is etched into Las Vegas’ identity, but Fremont Street is a familiar scene that you’ll know right away from 20th-century movies, TV shows and music videos.

Glitter Gulch at the west end of the street got its name from its profusion of neon signs, and became a handy establishing shot, turning sights like the Fremont Hotel & Casino and the cowboy Vegas Vic into international icons.

Fremont Street has not stood still either.

Today those signs sit under a barrel-vaulted canopy almost 500 metres long and 27 metres high, and fitted with some 12 million LED lights for eye-popping overhead displays.

Crammed with shops, street performers larger-than-life eateries, clubs and casinos, this is the city’s big public gathering place, and there are three stages along the mall for nightly free entertainment.

SlotZilla is a 12-storey zip-line flying through a stretch of the canopy, while Neonopolis on Fremont is a huge shopping and entertainment complex with three miles of neon lights on its facade.

Recommended tour : Fremont Street Walking Tour

24. Planet Hollywood Las Vegas

With a history beginning in the early-1960s, Planet Hollywood Las Vegas was “Aladdin” for more than 40 years until it was sold off in the 2000s, pulled down and reborn as Planet Hollywood.

We can’t go any further without talking about Zappos Theater, the largest venue of its kind in the United States, holding 7,000 and with a vast proscenium arch opening.

Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, Pitbull and Def Leppard were all rotating here in spring 2019. Zappos Theater is housed within the Miracle Mile Shops, a 170-tenant mall opened in 2000 and home to the likes of Guess, Sephora, H&M and Footlocker.

Planet Hollywood has one of the city’s top buffets and a three-acre casino floor decorated with ostentatious neon and reflective surfaces.

To give you a hint of the tone of this place, the Pleasure Pit has platforms with go-go dancers next to its game tables.

25. Mandalay Bay

The tropical-themed Mandalay Bay is owned by MGM Resorts International and is not hard to pick out on the strip for its windows coated in gold leaf.

In keeping with the tropical styling, the pool, known as Mandalay Beach, is paradisiacal.

It covers 11 acres and has three heated pools, a wave pool and a lazy river with waterfall.

Moorea Beach Club is a separate, “European style” pool with a private bar.

Non residents can pay to use Mandalay Beach from Monday to Thursday.

The resident show at Mandalay Bay is Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson; while the mammoth Mandalay Bay Events Center is one of the largest privately owned convention centres in the world and has held major award ceremonies as well as boxing and UFC bouts in its time.

We’ll talk about Mandalay Bay’s visitor attraction, Shark Reef below, while The Shoppes at Mandalay Place is a mall on the sky bridge between this resort and the Luxor.

26. Neon Museum

A repository for the vintage neon signs of Las Vegas, the Neon Museum has a magnificent collection from the 1930s to the present day.

Most of these are in the Neon Boneyard, where there are over 200 signs stacked up to create alleyways.

Eleven of these signs have been restored while the others are in varying stages of decay, which only makes the display more picturesque.

You can view these on a guided or self-guided tour, and head inside the Visitors Center, a museum piece in its own right.

Dating to 1961, this building is the Space Age former lobby for the La Concha Motel, with restored interior and signage.

There are more unrestored signs in the North Gallery, hosting the “Brilliant!” light and sound display and often rented out for photo shoots and weddings.

Now, the Mojave Desert doesn’t have natural swards of grass, but in this city of artifice that doesn’t mean there won’t be top class golf courses.

In fact there are more than 50, and golf is a year-round game, even at the punishing height of summer.

If you’re prepared to tee off early in the day, summer can be a good time to sneak a round in, as most courses offer discounts of up to 70% during this low season.

You’ll find Scottsdale-style desert courses, along with parkland, mountain and links environments.

One of the best, and the only course on the Strip is Wynn Golf Club, framed by pines and reopened in 2019 after a two-year closure and rumours of its demise.

Also first-rate, Coyote Springs Golf Club, Wolf Creek Golf Club, and Cascata Golf Course require a journey into the desert but are worth every second.

In between, TPC LAS Vegas is 15 minutes from the Strip, with views taking in the Las Vegas skyline and the Red Rock Canyon on the back nine.

28. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

High-tech and cultivated, the luxury Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a hotel and casino that eschews crowd-pleasing sideshows for sophisticated bars and ultra-cool restaurants.

Chandelier, literally within a spectacular three-storey chandelier, is a cocktail bar par excellence, while floor-to-ceiling glass walls afford startling views of the Las Vegas Strip and Bellagio Fountains.

The casino has old-school table games like roulette, blackjack and baccarat, but also some of the most cutting-edge slots in Las Vegas at the High Limit Slot Lounge.

The “FASTPAY” technology here allows you to process payments right at the machine, without needing to call on attendant.

The Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub is capacious and books international DJs, while the Chelsea is a concert venue for more leftfield acts than you’d associate with Vegas.

And then there’s the food choice, which darts around the world, from avant-garde Spanish, to Nashville hot chicken, sushi, over-the-top sandwiches and the Mexican-Chinese fusion of China Poblano.

29. Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Las Vegas never had a dedicated performing arts venue before this stunning monument was unveiled at the new Symphony Park development in 2012. The Smith Center for the Performing Arts has a Neo Art Deco design, which has a sense of belonging as it echoes the clean lines of the Hoover Dam, inside and out.

The main Reynolds Hall venue holds 2,050 and has five steep tiers to keep the audience close to the action.

This is the seat of the Las Vegas Philharmonic Orchestra and the Nevada Ballet Theatre, for the sort of evening you might not associate with Vegas.

As well as ballet and orchestral performances, this hall receives touring musicals (Book of Mormon and Wicked in 2019), family shows, world-famous comedians and top recording artists.

For more personal jazz performances there’s Myron’s Cabaret Jazz, seating 250.

30. National Atomic Testing Museum

Between 1951 and 1962 the U.S. government conducted 100 atmospheric (above ground) nuclear tests at the Nevada Test Site just 65 miles north-west of the city.

The mushroom clouds could be seen from Las Vegas, and even became a selling point for tourists.

After 1963 the tests moved underground and continued up to 1992 (928 took place in total). At America’s only official atomic museum you can investigate this half-forgotten past, checking out official documents, propaganda, atomic age memorabilia, artefacts like genuine B53 nuclear bomb, Geiger counters and other radiation testing device.

You’ll also learn the story of Castle Bravo, a controversial 15-megaton test in 1954 at Bikini Atoll that created a mushroom cloud 14,000 metres high, contaminated some of the inhabited Marshall Islands and sparked an international debate about testing.

No static exhibit quite prepares you for the visceral test simulation at the “Ground Zero Theater”, designed like a concrete bunker, using crisp archive footage, compressed air and sound design to bring home the force of a nuclear blast.

31. Fashion Show Mall

There’s nothing misleading about the name of this expansive mall, which has been a permanent part of the Las Vegas Strip for nigh on 40 Years.

The Fashion Show Mall has a retractable 25-metre runway, the only one in the world, for models to strut their stuff on Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons on the hour.

Where this mall departs from Paris Fashion Week is that you won’t be looking at bizarre future concepts, but whatever is in season and for sale at the shops around you.

Famous personalities have been known to fly in to take part, and if you’re lucky you may catch a special event.

As for the shops, there almost 250, covering a spectrum from Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, Gap, Footlocker and Topshop to Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton and Hugo Boss.

32. Springs Preserve

Las Vegas goes back to its roots at this open space three miles west of downtown.

The Springs Preserve is at the site of the city’s original water source, which dried up in 1980. Shielded from U.S. Route 95 by a sound wall, the Springs Preserve was developed in the 2000s and has four themed trails to explore, adding up to roughly 3.5 miles.

At the Origen Museum you can find out about the springs’ earliest inhabitants, as well as the wildlife and geological history of the Mojave Desert.

There are also animal enclosures for desert species like gila monsters, snakes, tortoises, spiders and desert cottontail rabbits.

The Desert Living Center is a complex with 43 exhibits centred on sustainability, showing the city’s water supply network and indicating just how much rubbish one family can produce in a month.

In eight acres, the desert botanical gardens are a joy, especially in spring and grow some 1,200 plant varieties including herbs, cactuses, palms, vegetables and roses.

There’s also a wonderful children’s playground themed on a desert canyon, a shop and a 1,800-seater amphitheatre.

33. Three-Hour Night Tour by Open-Top Bus

It’s not profound to say that Las Vegas is at its best after dark when those neon signs are ablaze and the many iconic landmarks are in lights.

On GetYourGuide.com , there’s a three-hour adventure through Sin City on a double-decker with live narration to point out the things you might have missed.

You’ll roll along the world-famous Las Vegas Strip to see Las Vegas sign, the Mirage volcano and Bellagio fountains.

At the top you can stretch your legs on a walking tour to discover the LED and neon wonderland of the Fremont Street Experience, and its kaleidoscope of street performers, before heading back to the bus and returning to the Strip.

You can board the bus at 19:00 at Circus Circus, 19:15 at the LINQ Promenade or 19:30 at the Excalibur Hotel.

34. LINQ Promenade

Although the attention-grabber at the LINQ Promenade is the High Roller, there’s more to keep you rapt at the open-air retail, entertainment and dining district around it.

Opened in 2018, Fly LINQ is the first and only zip line on the Las Vegas Strip, while there’s always a new pop-up attraction like 2019’s Tattoo’d America, celebrating tattoos and body art.

Vegas-native Jimmy Kimmel has a comedy club to his name on the promenade, while there are more than 40 shops, bars and eateries at the dynamic marketplace.

Brooklyn Bowl is a top live music venue accommodating crowds of 2,000, but opening onto the hall are 32 lanes for the most-amped up game of bowling you’ve ever had.

The LINQ Promenade is swept up by regular seasonal celebrations, from Cinco de Mayo to a “Winter PARQ” and a ten-metre tree at Christmas.

Book online : Fast-Track Ticket: FLY LINQ Zipline

35. Pinball Hall of Fame

When we wrote this list in 2019, the much-loved museum for pinball machines was found at 1610 E Tropicana Ave in Paradise, but is due to move to the strip in the next few years.

The Pinball Hall of Fame is run entirely by volunteers, and donates any extra revenue to the Salvation Army and other denominational charities . What awaits you are rows upon rows of historic pinball machines, from the 1950s to the 1990s, the majority of which are from the golden age of pinball in the 70s and 80s.

Every machine on show is available to play on, and all models from before the 1990s are set at ¢25 a game, while new machine are ¢50. All in all, it’s a more innocent and economical way to pass a couple of hours than at a slot machine, and may bring back a lot of memories.

36. Luxor Las Vegas

Luxor’s vast pyramid and the Sky Beam shooting from its tip has been a calling card for Las Vegas for more than a quarter of a century.

This was the tallest structure on the strip when it opened in 1993, and at 830,000 cubic metres the atrium is officially the largest in the world.

For its first decade or so, Luxor had an overt Ancient Egyptian theme, which was replaced with more urbane and mature stylings by 2010. Luxor has 2,000 slot machines, 87 table games and four nightclubs.

In 2019 the Atrium Showroom theatre hosted the comedian Carrot Top and the long-running revue “Fantasy”. The Blue Man Group has been associated with Luxor on and off since 2000, and performs at a dedicated theatre.

For attractions you’ve got Bodies: The Exhibition, showcasing more than 200 preserved humans for a one-of-a-kind anatomy lesson.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, displays more than 250 pieces recovered from the famous wreck, along with detailed recreations of the ship’s interiors.

37. SlotZilla Zip Line

Where Fremont Street intersects the Las Vegas Boulevard there’s something sure to provoke a double-take: A monster-sized slot machine, with two tiers of cables threading into Fremont Street Experience.

At seven storeys is the SlotZilla Zipline, for a seated two-block ride.

But what really arouses is the Zoomline, a bit further up, eleven storeys.

For $45 you’ll fly like a superhero, face down across five blocks.

Try to come at night to marvel at the mall’s LED canopy, and Fremont Street’s dazzling neon signs.

38. Discovery Children’s Museum

One of a slew of new attractions to make Las Vegas more appealing to families, the Discovery Children’s Museum reopened at a new home next to the Smith Center in 2013. Like the Smith Center, the brick-built museum looks at odds with the flash of the Las Vegas Strip, but there’s a neon shooting-star marquee to remind you where you are! In nine halls on three floors, the Discovery Children’s Museum is all about hands-on, stealthily educational fun.

For example, at Eco City kids can find out what it’s like to live in an environmentally friendly community, buying groceries and withdrawing money from a bank, while Water World teaches the physics of water through waterwheels, turbines and whirlpools.

At Patent Pending little ones can make inventions from straws, tape, tissues and paper cups and then put them to use in practical situations, while The Summit is a 20-metre soft climbing tower with hands-on stations teaching about electricity, light, magnets and much more on 13 different levels.

39. Topgolf Las Vegas

Best described as a high-tech, luxury bowling alley transposed to a 215-yard driving range, Topgolf is on four levels at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino.

The 100+ hitting bays are climate controlled, and both the balls and the range’s six illuminated targets are installed with microchips to calculate your score automatically.

When you’re not swinging a club there’s poolside cabanas, two pools, five fully-stocked bars (one rooftop and one swim-up), great food, HD screens everywhere you look and a stage for concerts.

The Callaway Fitting Studio will get you custom fitted for clubs, while, like any golf amenity, there’s a pro shop for apparel and accessories.

Every other Sunday you can take part in yoga on the rooftop, while there’s a DJ at the Hideaway Pool every weekend.

40. Mount Charleston

Las Vegas has a rep for its fierce desert climate, and with highs topping 40°C or more in mid-summer it’s reassuring that you can step out into more temperate climes in less than an hour.

One of the most prominent peaks in the contiguous United States, Mount Charleston (3,632m) is in the Spring Mountains and is a year-round destination for Las Vegas locals and visitors.

The peak is capped with snow from about November to March and can be spotted from part of the Las Vegas Strip.

You can come for skiing at this time of year, and to walk on fragrant hiking trails through forests of Aspen, juniper, mountain mahogany and Ponderosa pine inhabited by deer and wild burros.

One light, child-friendly walk is the Mary Jane Falls trail with a seasonal waterfall and a cave, while Fletcher Canyon has walls of up to 30 metres.

More serious walkers can plot their ascent of Griffith Peak for vistas back across Red Rock Canyon and the Las Vegas cityscape.

Available tour : Half-Day Polaris Slingshot Tour of Mt. Charleston

41. Clark County Museum

A stop that needs to be made if you’re driving to the Hoover Dam, the Clark County Museum is in Henderson to the south-east of Las Vegas.

More than affordable at just $2, the museum delves into topics like southern Nevada’s early Native American cultures, the arrival of the railroads, mining and the dawn of the gaming industry in the county.

Outside you can peruse a recreated ghost town, a Heritage Street made up of relocated historic buildings, a mining exhibit displaying regional minerals, as well as the 1932 Boulder City Depot which has a genuine Union Pacific locomotive from 1918. In the main building, the Anna Robert Parks Exhibit Hall is filled with artefacts and leads you on a journey through the history of the region, via the last Ice Age, the Pueblo and Paiute cultures, the first Anglo pioneers, land auction camps to the birth of modern Las Vegas.

42. Valley of Fire State Park

Quit Vegas, just for a few hours, to venture into another expanse of wilderness covering more than 45,000 acres.

The name, Valley of Fire, comes from the almost Martian red Aztec sandstone formations.

When you enter the park you’ll understand how the Mars outdoor scenes in Total Recall (1990) were almost completely filmed in this environment.

You can make hikes or drives to outlandish formations, like Elephant Rock, Mouse’s Tank, the Beehives and White Domes.

In places the sandstone is stratified with spellbinding red and white bands, visible at the Fire Wave and Pink Canyon.

From around 300 BCE to 1150 CE the Ancestral Puebloans would use the Valley of Fire for hunting and religious rites, and they have left mysterious petroglyphs at several spots around the park.

The best of these can be found at the majestic Atlatl Rock.

Recommended tour : Valley of Fire Tour from Las Vegas

43. Wedding Chapels

Las Vegas has picked up another epithet down the years, as the “Marriage Capital of the World” because of how streamlined the process is for both U.S. citizens and people from abroad.

With identification and a $77 fee you can get a license in a matter of minutes.

Around 120,000 wedding ceremonies take place in Las Vegas every year, and as you’d imagine there’s a massive choice of venues, many of which are at locations we’ve already covered.

You can get married at the top of the Eiffel Tower, at the Mob Museum, in a helicopter, on Mount Charleston or at a chapel attached to the KISS mini-golf course.

There are chapels at all the resorts, from Bellagio’s Terrazza Di Sogno in front of the fountains, to a penthouse at The Cosmopolitan.

Since you’re in Vegas you might want to go for kitsch, and in which case Viva Las Vegas chapel brings you down the aisle Elvis-style in a pink Cadillac, or like a Cirque du Soleil acrobat or dressed like a superhero.

One of the first venues on the strip, Chapel of the Flowers is remarkably tasteful and was where Dennis Rodman and Carmen Electra tied the knot in 1998.

Book online : World-Famous Drive-Up Wedding in Las Vegas

44. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

An unexpected natural oasis in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip, the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is in the lush grounds of Caesars’ Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel.

In these 15 acres, among tropical foliage, streams and waterfalls, you’ll come across a flock of Chilean flamingos, as well as pelicans, parrots, ringed teals and sacred ibises.

In the ponds you’ll see turtles, Japanese koi and albino channel catfish, some as old as 20 years.

The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is a blissful free-entrance respite from the Strip and schedules pelican feeding times each day at 08:30 and 14:00.

45. Shark Reef

At the Mandalay Bay Resort there’s one of the largest aquariums in the United States.

Shark Reef has more than 2,000 aquatic animals across 14 exhibits.

Most striking is the 5,000,000-litre shipwreck tank where you can view blacktips, sand tiger shark and sawfish swimming overhead from an acrylic tunnel.

There are more than 100 different species at Shark Reef, from sea turtles to pythons, komodo dragons, and 15 different kinds of shark.

At the Touch Pool you’ll have the rare chance to feel a variety of marine animals, like horseshoe crabs, rays and harmless infant zebra sharks.

46. Helicopter Flight at Night over the Las Vegas Strip

Short but sweet at 15 minutes long, this helicopter flight over the Las Vegas Strip will be the icing on the cake.

You’ll get a bird’s eye view on this narrated journey over the Luxor Sky Beam, Bellagio’s fountains, the mini-cityscape of New York-New York, the Stratosphere Tower, MGM Grand and more to gauge the sheer size of the Strip’s megaresorts.

Before you board you can even enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne to toast your flight.

This experience pickup from most Las Vegas hotels and is available with GetYourGuide.com .

47. KISS By Monster Mini Golf

A combination of things that you would never expect to go together can be found at Rio Las Vegas.

More than 1200 square metres, there’s an 18-hole mini-golf course themed on the band KISS.

With glow-in-the-dark decor, the course is enriched with state-of-the-art video and genuine KISS props like guitars, signed albums and drummer Eric Carr’s Porsche.

There’s also a live DJ on hand playing KISS hits like Crazy Crazy Nights, as well as arcade machines, a gift shop full of KISS memorabilia and a rock n’ roll themed wedding chapel.

48. Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

A fresh slice of Vegas camp for grown-ups, this stately 1938 mansion on South Las Vegas Boulevard has been turned into a house of horrors by the star of the Travel Channel’s hit series Ghost Adventures.

Zak Bagan has put together a veritable “Mecca of macabre” in a home with a creepy, chequered past, where dark rituals were thought to have been held in the basement.

You’ll tiptoe down winding hallways and through dark passages to more than thirty rooms, all decorated like something from a horror film and holding objects that conjure fascination and no little fear.

The Dybbuk Box has been dubbed the “world’s most haunted object”, while you can view the vintage wine cabinet that inspired the movie, “The Possession”. Among the other morbid artefacts are Dr Jack Kevorkian’s VW “Death Van”, Michael Jackson’s “Propofol Chair” and the staircase from the destroyed house in Indiana’s 2011 Ammons haunting case.

49. T-Mobile Arena

Las Vegas gained its first major professional sports team in 2017 with the creation of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights.

Remarkably the Golden Knights won the Western Conference in their first season, only losing to the Washington Capitals for the Stanley Cup.

They play at the ultramodern T-Mobile Arena, which opened in 2016 and is also occupied by the UFC and stages major boxing events: Floyd Mayweather vs Conor McGregor took place here in 2017. And if there’s a major band or artist calling at Las Vegas on tour, chances are they’ll play the T-Mobile Arena.

Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Jennifer Lopez, Elton John, Phil Collins and Ariana Grande were all on the programme in 2019. Just west of Mandalay Bay is the site for the new Las Vegas Stadium (2020), the home of the former Oakland Raiders after their relocation to Las Vegas for the 2020 NFL Season.

50. Park Theater

Beside the T-Mobile Arena on the Las Vegas Strip is another venue unveiled on the grounds of the Park MGM in 2016. Park Theater is the second largest theatre in the city after Zappos Theater (formerly The AXIS) and can hold 5,200 for concert residencies.

This is an astounding place to witness a live show, employing one of the widest stages in the world, and cleverly designed so that the furthest seat is only 44 metres from the stage.

The HD projection wall is out of this world too, measuring more than 70 metres across.

When we wrote this article in 2019 Lady Gaga, Janet Jackson, Bruno Mars, Cher and Aerosmith were all rotating at this mesmerising venue.

51. Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Something to keep in mind, especially if you’re in Las Vegas with kids, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate.

The museum is at its best in the Prehistoric Gallery where there are compelling models of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops, that growl and move at the push of a button.

The Marine Life Gallery has massive whale models hanging from its ceiling, and a live exhibit with eels, rays and baby sharks.

You can watch the sharks being fed at 14:30 on Tuesday and Thursday and 14:00 on Saturday.

The Treasures of Egypt exhibit used to be on display at the Luxor Hotel and Casino and features more than 500 faithful replicas of Ancient Egyptian masterpieces, like King Tutankhamun’s golden throne.

52. Lion Habitat Ranch

When the MGM Grand was renovated in 2012 they did away with a popular but ethically questionable sideshow.

For 13 years there was a glass-walled habitat with real lions opening onto the casino.

The lions didn’t actually live at the resort but were transported by their owner Keith Evans from this ranch 12 miles out of town.

With the lions’ commuting days now behind them, they can roam this well-maintained 8.5 acre ranch, which is shared with a herd of giraffes and parrots.

Pay extra and you can feed the animals ($10 for giraffes and $100 per pound of food for lions), or go behind the scenes on a 90-minute guided tour with a trainer.

53. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

A campy bit of fun at The Venetian for more than two decades, Madame Tussauds means close encounters with stars at their most statuesque! Some recent arrivals are the Hangover Bar, with Bradley Cooper and Zach Galifianakis from the Vegas-based movie series.

An homage to the city’s love affair with electronic music, Club Tussauds is an A-list party DJ’d by Steve Aoki and attended by Britney Spears, Channing Tatum, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Khloé Kardashian.

And to mark twenty years in Las Vegas “Oh Snap! The ’90s Are Back” is a hit of nostalgia, reviving models like the Spice Girls, Bill Clinton, Justin Timberlake and Erotica-era Madonna.

54. Speedvegas

If Las Vegas is all about living in the fast lane, you may as well take that expression at face value and burn rubber on a real racing track.

Speedvegas is a driving experience company, based a few minutes from the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign, at a 1.5-mile track with a monster 800-metre straight.

Speedvegas has a mean-looking fleet of supercars and sports cars to pick from, be it a Ferrari 488 GTB, a Lamborghini Huracán, a Porsche 911 GT3, Nissan GT-R or Mercedes AMG GT-S.

You can pay by the lap, starting at $49 or opt for a “Combination Experience” driving up to 16 different vehicles.

Book online: Speedvegas Driving Experience

55. Axe Monkeys

People come to Las Vegas hope for real off-the-wall moments, but you may not have pictured yourself competing against your friends at axe-throwing.

The wildly popular Axe Monkeys is an indoor attraction on the other side of the airport in Paradise.

Here you can pay $25 and spend an hour flinging hatchets at targets on a range.

And if you can’t get the hang of axes there are also spears and knives.

The Rage Room is also out of the ordinary.

Here you can be let loose on a room full of breakable objects for 20 minutes of smash therapy.

55 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas (Nevada):

• Vegas Residencies
• Caesars Palace
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
• Celebrity Chef Restaurants
• Fountains of Bellagio
• Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
• High Roller
• Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck
• The Venetian
• Death Valley National Park
• Wynn Las Vegas
• New York-New York
• Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
• Eiffel Tower
• Fremont Street Experience
• Planet Hollywood Las Vegas
• Mandalay Bay
• Neon Museum
• The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
• Smith Center for the Performing Arts
• National Atomic Testing Museum
• Fashion Show Mall
• Springs Preserve
• Three-Hour Night Tour by Open-Top Bus
• LINQ Promenade
• Pinball Hall of Fame
• Luxor Las Vegas
• SlotZilla Zip Line
• Discovery Children's Museum
• Topgolf Las Vegas
• Mount Charleston
• Clark County Museum
• Valley of Fire State Park
• Wedding Chapels
• Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
• Helicopter Flight at Night over the Las Vegas Strip
• KISS By Monster Mini Golf
• Zak Bagans' The Haunted Museum
• T-Mobile Arena
• Park Theater
• Las Vegas Natural History Museum
• Lion Habitat Ranch
• Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
• Axe Monkeys

61 Best & Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas (Nevada)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 15, 2023

With its fun, hedonistic spirit, Las Vegas is one of the most popular destinations on the planet.

It welcomes more than 42 million visitors each year, and it’s earned nicknames that range from “Sin City” to “The Entertainment Capital of the World.”

You can do everything in Las Vegas.

You probably know about the resorts and casinos, but there are also malls, museums, aquariums, restaurants, amusement parks, race tracks, country clubs and more.

You can get married; you can go bungee jumping. The possibilities are endless!

Are you looking for wild things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada?

The full list would take you days to get through, so here are just a few hot spots to get you started.

Table of Contents

1. The Strip

Kobby Dagan / Shutterstock

You know the Strip . You’ve seen the Strip.

It’s one of the most famous destinations in the world, and it embodies the spirit of Las Vegas with more than four miles of light, color, sound, energy and fun.

Casinos are constantly jingling. Bars and nightclubs beckon with neon signs.

Theaters put on shows; symphony halls have ballets and operas; dance halls get everyone doing the lambada and the merengue.

A little-known fact about the Strip is that it’s also quite active during the day.

The alcohol starts flowing at sundown, but before then, the streets are still packed with shops, spas, malls, museums, restaurants, amusement parks and more.

You can gamble. You can wine and dine. You can sleep in a luxurious resort when your body finally gives out and demands rest.

The Las Vegas Strip is a must see destination no matter who you are or why you’re traveling to Nevada, so give yourself plenty of time to explore its wonders!

Address: S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

2. Bellagio

With an elegant beauty that includes everything from glittering gold archways to hand-blown glass flowers decorating vaulted ceilings, the Bellagio is more of a palace than a resort.

It’s one of the major points of interest on the Las Vegas Strip, and it offers entertainment far beyond what you’d expect from a hotel.

You’re probably familiar with the dancing water fountain that sits outside of the Bellagio.

It’s been featured in countless movies and montages of Las Vegas; it’s practically trademarked.

There are also casinos, botanical gardens, fine art galleries and other tourist attractions located on site.

The restaurants have Michelin stars. The suites include everything from hot tubs to plasma TVs.

You can even watch a Cirque du Soleil show in the theater!

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Las Vegas, the Bellagio is a must.

There’s a reason why you’ll find it listed in every single travel guide for the city.

It’s an iconic destination for anyone passing through Las Vegas, Nevada.

Address:  3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

3. High Roller

A Desert Dweller / Shutterstock

Soaring over the Las Vegas skyline, the High Roller is a marvel of modern architecture.

Not only is it the biggest Ferris wheel in the state of Nevada, but it’s currently the tallest and heaviest in the entire world.

It’s 550 feet tall and can carry 1,120 people at once!

The gondolas are spacious and comfortable.

They aren’t rickety things where you have to remain still and seated; they have wide, open-air designs that allow you to sit, stand, walk around and mingle with others at your leisure.

The floor-to-ceiling glass will provide 360°F views of Las Vegas, and the bar will be available for drinks.

Panel TVs line the walls for a little extra pizazz.

As for safety, each gondola has its own electric motor to keep it stable in the air, so there’s no danger in cutting loose and having a good time while you ride.

You can even order a VIP package that comes with a bartender to mix screwdrivers for you!

The High Roller is definitely something to put on your to do list while you’re in Las Vegas.

It’s fun; it’s glamorous; it’s unlike any other Ferris wheel that you’ve ridden before.

You won’t regret the ticket when you’re sightseeing from 550 feet high.

Address:  3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

4. Light at Mandalay Bay

Throw a rock in Las Vegas and it’ll pass six different nightclubs before it hits the ground.

This is the city of sin, and its streets are like a living thing with pulsing music and flashing strobe lights as far as the eye can see.

What does this have to do with Mandalay Bay?

Well, it’s a luxury resort located just off the Strip.

It has all of the amenities that you’d expect from a Las Vegas hotel, including a private beach and a casino located right there on the ground floor.

The best thing about Mandalay Bay, however, is its nightclub.

It’s called Light , and in addition to being three times the size of a normal club, it never stops finding creative ways to entertain its patrons.

Acrobats will dangle in the air above you. Fog machines will send smoke drifting across the floor below you.

Multiple bars are scattered around the dance floor so that the drinks never stop flowing for a second, and on the best nights, famous DJs will drop in just to say hello.

If you’re looking for the best nightclubs in Las Vegas, you won’t want to miss Light at Mandalay Bay.

It’ll offer a dazzling, multi-sensory experience for adults who want a unique party story to take home.

How many people can say that they’ve been to a club with live acrobats?

Address:  3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

5. Smith Center for the Performing Arts

The Smith Center

Las Vegas might be known for its more risque attractions, but you can enjoy a classier way of life when you visit the Smith Center for the Performing Arts .

Home to everything from the Nevada Ballet Theatre to the Las Vegas Philharmonic, it’ll elevate your evening with more sophisticated forms of entertainment.

The Smith Center is comprised of two different venues.

The first, Reynolds Hall, has more than 5,000 seats for big-league Broadway shows like Wicked and The Lion King.

The second, Myron’s Cabaret Jazz, is used for smaller, more intimate performances by live musicians.

There are other places to visit as well, including lounges, lobbies, rehearsal halls and outdoor courtyards for lawn performances.

There are always new and exciting things happening in various parts of the property.

All things considered, if you’re hoping to get some culture during your trip to Las Vegas, put on your best shawl and head to the Smith Center for the Performing Arts.

Not everything in the city is tawdry, so for a higher standard of vacation, look at a higher standard of art.

Address:  361 Symphony Park Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89106, United States

6. Neonopolis

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With more than three miles of neon lights, Neonopolis lives up to its name with dazzling, eye-popping displays that will burn your retinas like all good Las Vegas attractions.

It’s made of three separate building complexes that converge around a single, open-air courtyard.

Thousands of bulbs and marquees are always shining, scrolling, blinking and flashing.

They aren’t just for show, however.

Neonopolis is a shopping and entertainment hub that covers more than 250,000 square feet, and it’s jam-packed with various ways to entertain yourself.

There are piano bars and bowling alleys; there are karaoke clubs and microbreweries; there are video arcades and axe throwing ranges.

If your imagination can conjure it up, there’s probably a place for it at Neonopolis.

Las Vegas is sometimes called “the City of Lights” just like Paris, and when you’re in this courtyard, you’ll understand why.

It’s a must see for the visuals alone.

Your eyes might water, but it’ll be worth it!

Address:  450 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

7. Caesars Palace

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Created in the image of the Roman Empire, Caesars Palace is a lavish hotel and casino that serves as one of the top tourist attractions of Las Vegas.

It covers more than 300,000 square feet and offers restaurants, cigar bars, gambling rooms, cocktail lounges, performance venues and more.

The Roman theme is prevalent throughout the resort.

Statues and white stone columns give flair to the architecture, and on-site locations have names like “The Colosseum” and “Garden of the Gods Pools.”

Thanks to its location at the heart of Las Vegas, you can find many other activities and attractions near the hotel, too.

Whether you’re in the mood for fine art or cheap beer, you’re never far from cool things to do.

Take a trip to Rome without ever leaving Nevada.

Book a suite at Caesars Palace to enjoy high-class living during your vacation.

Address:  3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

8. Heart Attack Grill

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It has 12 slices of cheese and 40 strips of bacon tucked between eight half-pound hamburger patties.

It’s served with a side of fries that are cooked in pure lard.

It’s the Quadruple Bypass Burger, and at 19,900 calories, it’s the highest-calorie burger on the planet.

Welcome to Las Vegas!

The Heart Attack Grill is an aptly-named restaurant where everything on the menu is designed to kill you.

From “butterfat milkshakes” to “flatliner fries,” it revels in the tasty but unhealthy goodness of sugar-topped, oil-soaked and fat-sodden fare.

The waitresses dress like nurses in case you need medical attention while eating.

If you can’t finish your meal, you get a public spanking with a paddle.

If you do manage to clean your plate, you’ll be put in a wheelchair for a victory lap.

Check out the Heart Attack Grill if you’re looking for unique places to visit in Las Vegas.

You might die, but that’s the risk of an awesome vacation, don’t you think?

Address:  450 Fremont St #130, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

9. National Atomic Testing Museum

wyliepoon / flickr

Did you know that the U.S. government used to test atomic bombs in the deserts of Nevada?

From 1951 to 1962, they experimented with a series of formulas and blasts, and the mushroom clouds were visible all of the way to Las Vegas.

They even became something of a tourist attraction.

Today, the only remnants of this crazy practice are in the National Atomic Testing Museum .

It’s dedicated to everything that happened in Nevada both pre- and post-WWII, and it offers a fascinating look at a time that most textbooks don’t even cover.

Exhibits include videos, artifacts, propaganda posters and atomic age memorabilia.

Simulations include a “Ground Zero Theater” that mimics a real-life nuclear explosion.

There’s even a genuine B53 nuclear bomb on display!

The National Atomic Testing Museum is one of the best places to visit while you’re in Las Vegas.

Not only does it offer a fun, unique day trip, but it’ll also serve as an educational experience for a little-known piece of American history.

Address:  755 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

10. Big Bus Tours

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Las Vegas is such a big, busy place that it’s easy to get overwhelmed by where to go and what to do.

Big Bus Tours can help you simplify things.

Offering several different routes through the city, Big Bus Tours will cut through the riffraff and show you the real highlights of Las Vegas.

You’ll take your journey on a fun double-decker bus with rooftop access, and live narration will keep you entertained as you cruise the streets and hit all of the must see destinations of Vegas.

Tours are available both night and day, so whether you’re interested in sightseeing with the kids or barhopping with your buddies, you can find something that works for you.

The full tour takes three hours, but you can hop on or hop off at any time.

Will you need a little direction after stepping off the plane and being confronted by miles and miles of neon lights?

Big Bus Tours is far from the only tour guide company in Las Vegas, but it’s one of the best, so give them a call if you want a good local guide for your trip.

Visiting other parts of Nevada? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Reno !

11. Mob Museum

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The Mob Museum offers a fascinating look at some of the world’s most notorious felons.

Officially named the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, it’s one of those Las Vegas attractions that makes you double back on the sidewalk and say, “Wait, it’s about what?”

Exhibits include everything from vintage newspaper clippings to high-tech touchscreens that will pull up names, dates and maps.

Crime scene photos are laid out in all of their gruesome glory.

Despite the name, you’ll learn about more than just mobsters; there are also displays for bootleggers, drug runners, gang members and cartel bosses.

Additional activities include stimulated shooting ranges and interactive “crime labs” where you can play around with fingerprints and other forms of evidence.

When you’re done with the museum, head downstairs and grab a drink at the speakeasy-style bar, or visit the gift shop to pick up some grisly souvenirs to take home.

If you’re wondering what to do on your vacation, the Mob Museum is the only one of its kind, so it’s an utterly unique attraction to both the city of Las Vegas and the state of Nevada.

You should swing by if you’re interested in the life and times of some of America’s most infamous gangsters.

Address:  300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

12. SeaQuest Las Vegas

Since the closure of the Las Vegas Zoo, there aren’t a lot of places for wildlife observation in the city.

Fortunately, SeaQuest is still around to fulfill your desires for petting, feeding and playing with nature’s cutest critters.

Open tanks will allow you to interact with sharks and otters.

Tide pools will be filled with frogs, turtles and snakes who are always eager for treats.

If you’re really lucky, you might get a bird to land on your arm or a lizard to nuzzle into your hand!

Special events can be arranged with a little planning on your part.

For example, you can sign up for a “Stingray Snorkel” where you’ll don a wetsuit and hop into the water with the stingrays.

Another possibility is a “Sleep With Sharks” night where you enjoy an after-hours tour of the aquarium followed by a sleepover and morning breakfast.

There are a lot of opportunities for fun at SeaQuest, and this is why it’s one of the best attractions in Las Vegas.

You can curate your own experience depending on your unique budget and schedule.

The city might lack official zoos, but with sites like SeaQuest, who needs ’em?

Address:  3528 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89169, United States

13. Fremont Street

Fremont Street is one of the most electrifying places in Las Vegas.

It’s home to dozens of hotels, casinos, bars, clubs and gambling halls, and its neighborhoods are so vibrant that they’re named things like “Neonopolis” and “Glitter Gulch.”

It even has an LED “canopy” that runs overhead with the power of 12 million individual bulbs.

You could spend your entire vacation on Fremont Street.

For food, you’ll have your pick of cheap hot dogs or delicate foie gras; for shopping, you can bounce from independent vendors to luxury fashion boutiques; for fun, you can explore the area’s malls, museums, theaters, galleries and cocktail rooms.

Fremont Street also plays host to many special events in Nevada, so that’s something to consider when you visit.

Depending on how you time your trip, you could catch everything from a concert to a comedy tour.

Nothing beats the Strip, of course, but if you’re looking for other places to visit in Las Vegas, you can find a lot of energy and enthusiasm on Fremont Street.

It’s probably the second best street in Las Vegas in terms of pure spirit.

Grab a map and go there tonight!

Address: 425 Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

14. Springs Preserve

Las Vegas might be known for its bright lights and unstoppable energy, but there are quiet places to be found in the city, too.

Springs Preserve is one of them.

Protected by a sound wall, Springs Preserve is a soft, peaceful paradise that’s filled with natural beauty.

There’s a botanical garden where you can enjoy flowers, sculptures and water fountains; there’s a desert trail where you can try to glimpse lizards, snakes, tortoises, gila monsters and other wildlife.

The Nature Exchange will teach kids how to trade fossils.

The Nevada State Museum will teach adults how Las Vegas was formed out of rock and sand.

The Desert Living Center will welcome visitors of all ages.

Are you craving a little peace and quiet after your casino tour?

Consider a trip to Springs Preserve.

Sometimes, the best vacation spots aren’t always flashy.

They’re serene locations where you can catch your breath after being tossed around the hurricane that is Las Vegas.

Address:  333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107, United States

15. Discovery Children’s Museum

If you’re wondering what to do in Las Vegas with kids, the Discovery Children’s Museum is a godsend.

Far from being a dull, stuffy museum, it’s an interactive jungle gym where your little ones can burn off some of their boundless energy while hopefully learning a thing or two about the natural world.

There are tons of things to see in the museum.

“Water World” explores the power and properties of H2O, and “Eco City” teaches sustainability through domestic games and activities.

The “Discovery Lab” is filled with tinker tools and other hands-on toys.

“Solve It! Mystery Town” lets little detectives apply their critical thinking skills to various problems.

There are even climbing structures for the most active of kids.

“The Summit” is a 70-foot tower that rises through every floor of the museum, and it’s filled with safe but fun ways to play, slide and jump.

The Discovery Children’s Museum is one of the best things to see in Las Vegas.

Kids will love it, of course, but parents will enjoy themselves as well.

It’s hard not to have a good time when you’re playing with dinosaur bones or shaking earthquake tables!

Address:  360 Promenade Place, Las Vegas, NV 89106, United States

16. Ethel M Chocolates

Chocoholics, this one is for you.

Ethel M Chocolates will allow you to experience every step of the chocolate-making process, so if you’ve ever wondered how your favorite truffles get mixed, cooked, cut, boxed and shipped, this will be the tastiest learning experience that you’ve ever had.

A factory tour is the best way to go if you’re interested in the how-to aspect of chocolate creation.

Otherwise, you can sign up for a chocolate tasting class that will stuff you with samples as you’re taught how to appreciate the flavors, aromas and textures of gourmet goodies.

You can also visit the candy shop to see shelves and shelves of everything from liquor-filled caramels to finely-decorated fudges and brittles.

A walk through Ethel M Chocolates is one of the top things to do in Nevada.

The factory in Las Vegas is just a single piece of their empire; you can find several of their facilities scattered throughout the state.

Ethel M Chocolates is taking over the world, and you can be the first to know.

The next time that you’re in Las Vegas, you should definitely hit up this spot for delectable desserts.

Address:  2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV 89014, United States

17. Speedvegas

Johnnie Rik / Shutterstock

Are you driving to Nevada? Are you the type of person who can’t see a long, unlined stretch of dirt road without wanting to floor it?

Speedvegas is where you’ll want to go when you feel the need for speed in Las Vegas.

It’s a racetrack that allows visitors to pick a car and tear up the asphalt just like the pros, and it can provide some of the best, most memorable adventures of your entire vacation.

There are several “experiences” to choose from as a visitor, so you can take your pick based on what you want to do.

For example, if you’re a little nervous about hitting 100 MPH on your own, you can opt for a ride-along trip with a professional driver.

If you want to blast down the track yourself, you can pick your own vehicle and get to racing.

Your vehicle options will include the Ferrari 488 GTB, the Mercedes AMG GT-S, the Lamborghini Huracan and the Porsche 911 GT3.

If you’re looking for thrills in Las Vegas, Speedvegas is a must do for adrenaline junkies.

How many chances will you get in your life to race like a NASCAR driver?

Take the opportunity while you can!

Address:  14200 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054, United States

18. Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

You don’t have to wait for Halloween to scare yourself silly.

The Haunted Museum offers thrills and chills all year long, so if you’re looking for ways to get the adrenaline pumping in Las Vegas, this is the best place to visit.

Winding hallways lead to dark rooms and creaking staircases.

Dead-eyed dolls stare out from dusty shelves.

You’ll feel the need to tiptoe around the house to avoid waking the spirits within.

The coolest thing about the Haunted Museum, however, is that all of its artifacts are real.

There are no plastic cleavers or fake blood bags here.

The “Death Van” is the actual vehicle where Dr. Jack Kevorkian used to kill his patients; the sinister “Propofol Chair” was genuinely recovered from Michael Jackson’s estate after his death.

Everything has factual, documented origins, even the things that seem too supernatural to be real.

The Haunted Museum isn’t a haunted house. It’s a haunted museum.

If you’re into creepy tales and bloody souvenirs from the world’s spookiest locations, you’ll definitely want to stop here while you’re in Las Vegas.

Address:  600 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States

19. The Planetarium

The Planetarium

The Planetarium is a small, no-frills operation.

That’s why it has such a straightforward name.

Located on the campus of the Southern College of Nevada, it’s run by teachers, students, hobbyists and volunteers, and it’s open to anyone who is passionate about the stars.

Shows range from “The Little Star That Could” to “Cosmic Origins Spectrographs,” so there’s a little something for visitors of all ages.

You can also sign up for stargazing events where the planetarium will open up its telescopes for public use.

The Planetarium might not seem like much, but it’s the only public planetarium in southern Nevada, and it’s run by dedicated, hard-working staffers who are keen to share their love of astronomy with the world.

You could definitely do worse in terms of Las Vegas attractions.

Address:  3200 E Cheyenne Ave, North Las Vegas, NV 89030, United States

20. T-Mobile Arena

Built in 2016, the T-Mobile Arena is a relatively new addition to the glamorous streets of Las Vegas, but it’s already fitting in nicely with its high-profile events and celebrity endorsements.

Many concerts have been hosted within its walls.

Many awards shows have been recorded, and many athletic legends have duked it out in their respective sports.

It’s been the venue of choice for the Grammys, the Stanley Cup, the iHeartRadio Music Festival and the Miss USA beauty pageant.

Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor fought here.

The NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights consider it their home field.

You’ll need to plan ahead to enjoy a special event at the T-Mobile Arena.

As one of the biggest stadiums in Las Vegas, it’s a popular destination for everyone from Raiders fans to BTS lovers, so booking early in essential.

As soon as you know that you’ll be traveling to Las Vegas, check the stadium’s schedule and get your tickets reserved!

Address:  3780 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89158, United States

21. The Mirage

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The Mirage is another resort that you’ve probably seen featured in countless movies and TV shows.

Originally built in 1989, it was the pioneer of the crazy, excessive grandeur that has come to define Las Vegas, and it’s still considered the “father” of the Las Vegas Strip today.

An animal habitat has included everything from dolphins doing tricks to white tigers prowling around marble pools.

An artificial volcano erupts every night.

An eight-foot-tall aquarium sits behind the front desk, and an atrium with a glass dome includes real plants and palm trees to invoke a tropical paradise theme.

Other tourist attractions include nightclubs, circus shows and topless lounges.

You’ll never run out of fun stuff to do at the Mirage.

It’s jam-packed with events and activities to keep you feeling the thrill of Las Vegas.

Do you want stories to tell your grandchildren?

Are you looking to cross some wild experiences off your bucket list?

The Mirage is one of the best, most memorable places to visit when you’re in Las Vegas, so give them a call to book a room.

You could be sipping mojitos in the spa as early as this weekend!

Address:  3400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

22. Pinball Hall of Fame

Kent Kanouse / flickr

Poker is great, but have you ever played Peppy the Musical Clown?

At the Pinball Hall of Fame , you can take a walk down memory lane and revisit all of your favorite games from yesteryear.

Despite the name, they offer a lot more than just pinball; there are also classics from the arcade era and the early computer era.

All of the staffers are volunteers.

The games cost between 25 – 50 cents to play.

Unlike some Las Vegas attractions, there’s no shameless, money-grubbing motive here; it’s a business run purely on a love for fun.

From Black Hole to Fireball, the Pinball Hall of Fame has a staggering collection of vintage games that visitors of all ages can enjoy.

If you’re feeling nostalgic while in Las Vegas, you’ll definitely want to check it out.

Address:  1610 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

23. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

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With scraggly red cliffs that date back to the days of the Aztecs, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the most beautiful places in the United States .

It’s a little outside of Las Vegas, so you’ll need to be comfortable taking a short drive into the Nevada wilderness to reach it, but it’s definitely worth the extra gas.

Sandstone rock formations tower over the desert landscape.

Wild succulents grow between the cracks of gnarled tree roots and packed red earth.

Petroglyphs from long-lost indigenous tribes have been etched into the walls of canyons.

Visitors can walk, hike, bike and ride horses along several different nature trails.

There are also scenic driving routes for folks who want an air conditioner as they travel through the desert.

No matter how you choose to experience it, however, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the best things to do in Vegas.

If you want to escape the city lights for a while and enjoy the wild, rugged beauty of nature, this is the place to do it.

Address:  1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161, United States

24. Topgolf Las Vegas

Topgolf Las Vegas

Topgolf is offered in many cities across America, but as you might expect from Las Vegas, it’s cranked up to 11 here.

There are more than 100 bays spread across four floors.

Each one is private, microchipped and climate-controlled to ensure that you have a good time no matter what your neighbors are doing.

You can play a number of games or just practice your swing for fun.

When you’re done with your nine iron, you can visit one of the pools, bars or cabanas to enjoy a taste of Las Vegas luxury.

Televisions are everywhere to track news and horse races.

A swanky lounge serves both gourmet food and guilty pleasure favorites.

Driving ranges are a dime a dozen in Las Vegas, but if you’re looking for the very best, you’ll want Topgolf.

It offers a luxurious indoor golfing experience with amenities that truly encapsulate the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Address:  4627 Koval Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

25. Death Valley National Park

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Straddling the border between California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park is one of the hottest, flattest and driest places on the planet.

It isn’t for the faint of heart; its attractions are named things like Dante’s View and the Devil’s Golf Course, and they live up to their titles.

If you aren’t afraid of a little fire however, Death Valley can be one of the best places to visit in the region.

It has a rustic natural beauty that includes everything from spiky cliffs to smoothly-eroded salt rocks, and the sunsets over the sand dunes have to be seen to be believed.

Colorful deserts can be found with varying streaks of red, brown and white.

Scattered pine trees stand bravely against the sun.

Activity options include hiking, biking, camping and backpacking.

You can drive through the hills and valleys; you can sleep under the stars.

It’s a great place for sightseeing at any time of year.

Death Valley National Park is one of the most famous places on Earth, and its true majesty can’t be captured in videos or photographs.

You’ll need to plan your own visit to see what all of the fuss is about.

The next time that you’ll be in or near Nevada, make time for Death Valley.

Address: 328 Greenland Blvd., Death Valley, CA 92328, United States

26. Fashion Show

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Enjoy the high fashion of Paris and Milan without ever leaving Nevada.

This is the power of Fashion Show , a sleek, innovative shopping mall located in the heart of Las Vegas.

You can’t miss it.

A gigantic steel disc called “The Cloud” floats in the air and covers the top of the mall, so it can be seen for miles in every direction.

It’s one of the main reasons why the area has such a futuristic vibe.

Other cutting-edge design elements include a retractable runway where models strut their stuff every weekend.

There are also hundreds of sleek, high-end boutiques where you can burn through your entire paycheck on a single pair of shoes.

If you’re going on a glitzy, glamorous whirlwind through Las Vegas, you’ll definitely want to stop by Fashion Show.

It’s one of the best places to see and be seen while you’re in the city, so make sure that your plans this weekend include socializing at one of the hottest spots around.

Address:  3200 Las Vegas Blvd S Ste. 600, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

27. Tropicana Las Vegas

Tropicana Las Vegas

It isn’t Las Vegas without quickie weddings, and at the Tropicana , you can utilize the chapel in between catching a show, getting a manicure, gambling at the slots and seeing a celebrity impersonator.

It’s an all-inclusive resort with tons of entertainment for tourists of all types.

Are you feeling hungry?

Enjoy a bite to eat at everything from steakhouses to seafood joints.

Are you feeling lucky?

Hit up the poker and blackjack tables.

There are also sites for concerts, comedy shows, magicians, spa services, pool activities and more.

The hotel has a lot of amenities to offer as well.

Their most extravagant suites are actually villas and penthouses that sit at the top of the building and offer amazing views of Las Vegas.

Common room features include silk sheets, custom furnishings, spiral staircases and wet bars aplenty.

Do you need a place to stay while you’re in Las Vegas, Nevada?

Don’t settle for a rinky-dink hotel.

Plan a trip to the Tropicana to experience the best and most luxurious amenities that a resort can offer… and tie the knot while you’re at it.

Address:  3801 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

28. Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck

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Located just off the Strip, the Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck is a lot more than your usual observation point.

For starters, it’s the tallest viewing tower in the United States. Forget Nevada; nothing tops it in the entire country.

It also offers one-of-a-kind tourist attractions like the Skylounge Bar and the Top of the World revolving restaurant.

You can sip a daiquiri while enjoying sweeping aerial views in every direction.

Since the tower is located a little outside of the city, you’ll be able to see Las Vegas in all of its splendor.

Another fun thing about the tower is that it offers rides.

If you aren’t afraid of heights, you can test your nerve on things like the “X-Scream” and the “SkyJump” at 1,149 feet!

The Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck is one of the biggest points of interest in Las Vegas, so you’ll definitely want to put it on your to do list while you’re in the city.

Whether you’re interested in death-defying rides or quiet contemplation as you gaze at faraway mountains, this attraction has a little bit of everything.

Address:  2000 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States

29. Qua Baths and Spa

Qua Baths and Spa

You might not think of Nevada as a place that gets a lot of snow, but when you visit the Qua Baths and Spa , you can enjoy a winter wonderland in the form of a salon treatment.

It’s called the “Arctic Room,” and it’s a special enclave where artificial snowflakes gently fall from a domed ceiling.

The temperature is kept at a pleasantly cool 55°F, and mint infusers work aromatherapy magic to give everything a nice, relaxing atmosphere.

It’s said to be particularly refreshing after a heat wrap.

Other amenities at the spa include saunas, massage rooms and gigantic Roman baths with jets and whirlpools.

You can get a facial; you can enjoy a diamond-tipped microdermabrasion treatment.

The pampering possibilities are endless.

The Arctic Room, however, is one of those attractions that’s just so special that it reigns supreme over everything else.

There’s literally nothing else like it; it’s the only room of its kind in the entire world.

In other words, it’s an experience that you can only get in Las Vegas.

30. Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

It wouldn’t be Las Vegas without the iconic welcome sign !

The good news for tourists is that it’s free and accessible to the public, so unlike certain high-profile destinations like the Hollywood sign, you can walk right up to it and snap a selfie.

The best time to visit depends on the type of photo that you want.

If you want clear, sunny pictures, visit during the day; the sign won’t be lit, but you can still enjoy its bright pops of color and the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada” logo.

If you want something a little more dramatic, visit at night.

The sign will come alive with flashing, fast-moving lights that truly epitomize the spirit of Las Vegas, and if you angle your camera just so, you can also capture the shimmering hues of the city in the background.

Here’s a travel hack for you, too: You’ll often find people stationed near the sign who will help you take photos for a small fee.

They aren’t officially employed by the city, but for a few bucks, you can get the best possible commemorative photos of your vacation.

Address:  5200 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

31. BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark

BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark

BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark is one of those crazy restaurants that you can only find in Las Vegas.

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a dining experience in the dark.

Your waiters will escort you into a pitch-black room.

They’ll be wearing night-vision goggles, but you won’t be able to see a thing.

Once you’re seated, you’ll be served a pre-selected dinner feast comprised of 5 – 7 courses that have been carefully chosen for taste, texture and aroma.

The purpose of BLACKOUT is to make you appreciate food in a way that you never have before.

Since your vision will be gone, your other senses will be forced to kick into high gear, and you’ll hear every sizzle of a hot steak and taste every herb in a spicy soup.

BLACKOUT isn’t for everyone.

Some people will find it too unnerving to surrender themselves to the dark.

If you want to try something totally out of the box, however, BLACKOUT is one of the most interesting things to do in Las Vegas.

It’s also a great way to have a fun night on the town that doesn’t involve hotels, casinos or nightclubs.

Try this one-of-a-kind restaurant for a new kind of novelty in Nevada!

Address:  3871 S Valley View Blvd Ste 8, Las Vegas, NV 89103, United States

32. Las Vegas Arts District

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The Las Vegas Arts District is a central hub for art and culture in southern Nevada.

People come for miles to experience its eclectic mix of shops, galleries, boutiques, thrift stores, antique stalls and other creative, free-spirited businesses.

It was originally called “18B” since it was built to occupy 18 blocks.

It’s grown so much, however, that this name has become nothing but a nostalgic nod to the past.

Is your money burning a hole in your pocket?

Hit up the stores and stalls for everything from artisan jewelry to hand-painted watercolors.

Do you like fun, festive events with big crowds?

Visit during “First Friday,” a monthly block party, or wait for other special occasions like concerts, art shows and international film festivals.

The Las Vegas Arts District is a top 10 destination in Nevada.

It’s so amazing that it transcends the city of Las Vegas itself.

It’s a statewide showcase for creatives of all types, so if you count yourself among their number, you’ll definitely want to check out the neighborhood formerly known as 18B.

Address: Bounded by Commerce Street, Hoover Avenue, 4th Street, Las Vegas Boulevard and Colorado Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States

33. Thai Buddhist Temple of Las Vegas

Thai Buddhist Temple of Las Vegas

If you’re always on the hunt for unique things to see during your travels, consider the Thai Buddhist Temple of Las Vegas .

It’s a little piece of Asia tucked away in northern Nevada, so it’ll be a fun novelty as well as a genuinely educational experience for open-minded folks.

Colorful gates will welcome you to flower- and statue-lined walkways.

Monks will greet you, give you a tour and answer your questions as they show you around.

They’ll probably feed you as well; they’re always generous with food and drink to visitors.

The menu is classic fare from Thailand, so expect things like fried eggs and rice served over soup.

The prayer stations are lined with blankets and candles.

Various gods and goddesses are etched into walls, windows, tables, cups and coasters.

Figures of the Buddha, of course, are everywhere.

Vegas is a bit of a melting pot in terms of culture, and nowhere is this more apparent than the Thai Buddhist Temple of Las Vegas.

Give it a few minutes of your time if you’re looking for fun, uncommon ways to spend an afternoon in the city.

Address:  2959 W Gowan Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032, United States

34. Hakkasan at MGM Grand

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Go big or go home.

The Hakkasan at MGM Grand is the largest nightclub in Las Vegas, and it might even be the largest in the state of Nevada.

Its main floor alone could hold 2 – 3 smaller clubs.

Entry is exclusive.

You don’t have to be a guest at the hotel, but there’s an upscale dress code that prohibits things like sneakers and sweatpants, and you’ll be expected to behave yourself when famous DJs are spinning.

The Hakkasan at MGM Grand has been home to everyone from Tiesto and Zedd to Steve Aoki and Calvin Harris.

Other features of the club include bars, grills and sit-down restaurants.

You can enjoy a plate of chow mein even as strobe lights are flashing across your face.

It’ll be a unique experience for sure!

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Las Vegas?

Put on a nice outfit and try to get into the Hakkasan at MGM Grand.

If you’re deemed worthy, you could have a fun, memorable night with high-class company.

Address:  3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

35. Treasure Island Hotel and Casino

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One of the great things about Las Vegas is that you don’t have to wait for the weekend to cut loose.

There are fun things to do every day and every night, especially when you visit a place like Treasure Island .

Bet on black at the casino. Yell at the television at the race and sports book.

Ride an electric bull at the honky-tonk saloon, or sip expensive wine in the VIP lounge of a classy bar.

Multiple restaurants offer a wide range of culinary delights, including things like frog legs that you’ll want to try at least once in your life.

Attractions incorporate everything from drag queens to superheroes.

If you’re actually staying at the hotel, the amenities are some of the best in the business.

If you’re lodging elsewhere, you can still go to the hotel to enjoy its features and events.

If you want to experience some of the top attractions in Las Vegas, book a room at Treasure Island this weekend.

It’s such a huge, all-encompassing destination that you might just spend your entire vacation in the hotel itself!

Address:  3300 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

36. Bonanza Gift Shop

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It bills itself as the world’s largest gift shop.

This may or may not be true, but with more than 45,000 square feet of retail space, it’s certainly the largest in Nevada.

Say hello to the Bonanza Gift Shop !

“Quirky” is probably the best word to describe this place.

Its shelves are lined with odds and ends of all types, and while they can have a haphazard sort of organization, it isn’t uncommon to see mugs stacked next to ashtrays and balanced on top of umbrellas.

The prices are quite reasonable, too. You can find some great deals here. Everyone loves 99 cent souvenirs.

Fun things to do in Vegas come in all shapes and sizes.

At the Bonanza Gift Shop, you can see all of these shapes, sizes, colors, textures and special effects at once.

It’s an utterly original place that’s sure to give you some good memories of your time in Las Vegas, so don’t be afraid to enter its vast, colorful world!

Address:  2400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States

37. Clark County Wetlands Park

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Clark County Wetlands Park is one of the largest parks in Nevada.

It’s also one of the best.

With stunning views of rivers, streams, brooks and marshes, it’s something of a natural oasis within the gleaming metropolis of Las Vegas, and it’s a great place to “get away from it all” for awhile.

Trails are available for walking and biking.

They’re separate, so make sure that you take the right one for your chosen activity.

You can also enjoy a picnic lunch on the grass or by the ponds; the water rushing over the rocks will create an amazingly peaceful atmosphere.

It’ll be hard for you to believe that you’re still in Las Vegas.

Do you enjoy nature?

Do you want to see some greenery in the midst of Nevada’s brown deserts and red mountains?

Put on your hiking shoes and head to Clark County Wetlands Park.

Address:  7050 Wetlands Park Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89122, United States

38. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

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Las Vegas doesn’t see a ton of rain, but it does have days when the weather just doesn’t care about your vacation, so you’ll need a backup plan if your preferred attractions are closed.

This is where Madame Tussauds can save the day.

Madame Tussauds is a wax museum that displays replicas of actors, musicians, politicians and other people of note.

There are locations all around the world, but the one in Las Vegas is truly top tier.

Miley Cyrus is frozen on her wrecking ball.

Snoop Dogg is puffing the magic dragon.

Beyonce is cocking her hip and daring you to come closer.

There are other features in the museum as well, including a bar, cafe and movie theater, but let’s face it, you can find those things anywhere.

You’re really going for the wax statues.

If you’re pondering what to do on a rainy afternoon in Las Vegas, consider a trip to Madame Tussauds.

You’ll marvel at the good replicas, laugh at the bad ones and die at the stupid ones.

In short, you’ll have a great time!

Address:  3377 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste. 2001, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

39. Grand Canal Shoppes

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Even if you aren’t the type to get excited about shopping, you have to admit that there’s something awesome about shopping around a Venice-inspired canal with gondolas floating you through the water from store to store.

It might seem like something out of the movie, but it’s an experience that you can have any time at the Grand Canal Shoppes .

More than 200 stores are hosted within this shopping complex.

Many of them are luxurious, high-end retail spaces where you can find top of the line goods, but there are also discount brands if you’re on a budget.

Did we mention that everything is indoors?

The ceiling is painted with a cloudy blue sky in hyper-realistic detail.

The floor is dappled with “cobblestones” that are actually linoleum.

The canal is real, but it’s basically a horizontal water fountain that winds through the mall rather than a natural feature in the wilderness of Nevada.

All things considered, the Grand Canal Shoppes is one of those things not to miss in Las Vegas.

They offer a unique experience in a unique city that’s always looking to outdo itself.

Las Vegas can make anything seem grand, even shopping for socks!

Address:  3377 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

40. Mount Charleston

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As the tallest mountain in Nevada, Mount Charleston offers stunning views that you can’t get anywhere else in the region.

It also has rich, vibrant landscapes that are brimming with biodiversity, so if you’re getting tired of the deserts surrounding Las Vegas, here’s your chance to see trees, springs, hills, rain and even snow.

The mountain is called Nuvagantu by the native tribes of Nevada, which means “where the snow sits.”

Do you like working up a sweat?

Go climbing or camping in the wilderness.

The most famous loops are long, strenuous ones that require more than 16 miles of legwork, so you’ll definitely challenge yourself.

Do you prefer leisurely excursions into nature?

Take your RV around the trails, or enjoy a nice, sunny picnic in open fields of wildflowers.

There are many beautiful sights in Mount Charleston, so if you’re looking for the best things to do in Vegas, don’t be afraid to go a little outside of the city limits and hit up the scenery beyond.

Address: Robbers Roost Trail, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

41. Dick’s Last Resort

Nick Amoscato / flickr

Dick’s Last Resort is one of those tourist spots that always has a line.

It’s just so fun and unique that people are drawn to it like moths to a flame, so even when their stomachs are rumbling, they’re content to wait for a table.

What makes this restaurant so special?

For starters, the staff are obnoxious.

They start insulting you as soon as you sit down, and they don’t care if you’re offended by their remarks.

The food is awesome.

Dishes include everything from alligator bites to barbecue nachos, and the menu will provoke you just as much as the servers.

What’s in the grilled chicken salad? “Figure it out, genius.”

Last but not least, the ambiance of the establishment is like nothing else in Las Vegas.

Instead of fancy, ludicrously expensive decor, you’ll get paper tablecloths covering hard picnic tables.

The only napkins in the place are routinely thrown at guests by the staff.

If you’re looking for fun sites in Vegas, you won’t want to miss Dick’s Last Resort.

You might need to wait your turn before you can be properly and publicly humiliated, but it’ll be worth the time spent in line.

Address:  3850 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

42. Clark County Museum

There’s so much more to Nevada than the sinful pleasures of Las Vegas, so if you’re interested in broadening your horizons beyond cabaret dancers and craps, you should check out the Clark County Museum .

Situated just a few miles south of Las Vegas, the Clark County Museum offers a look at the art, culture and history of the pre-industrial northwest.

It’s more than just a single building; in fact, it’s more than several buildings.

Here’s a short list of attractions funded by the museum:

– Historical houses – Life-sized locomotive models – A recreated ghost town

There are also displays for everything from Native American artifacts to vintage European tools used for mining and railroading.

Are you traveling to Nevada in the near future?

Swing by the Clark County Museum.

It’ll feed your brain after some of the more mindless gratifications of Las Vegas, and since tickets are just two bucks a pop, it’ll be a low-cost way to have some fun on your vacation.

Address:  1830 S Boulder Hwy, Henderson, NV 89002, United States

43. The Golden Nugget

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In a city like Las Vegas, there has to be something special about a hotel to stand out from the rest.

The Golden Nugget accomplishes this with a 60-pound natural gold mineral that looks like a pair of praying hands.

It’s called “The Hands of Faith,” and it’s worth more than a million bucks, but you can see it right there in the front lobby of the hotel.

Other attractions include a casino, aquarium, spa, theater hall and shopping mall.

You can slide through a tank of live sharks; you can swim up to an outdoor bar where the drinks are served by floating baristas.

You can even explore hidden grottos within the hotel!

The Golden Nugget likes to boast that “no two nights are the same” for its visitors, and it definitely offers enough activities to live up to that promise.

Whether you’re looking for quiet conversation in a cocktail lounge or a splashing good time during drunken pool games, there’s a little something for everyone here.

The Golden Nugget is one of those Las Vegas attractions that you won’t want to miss.

Even if you don’t make use of its hotel rooms, its activity roster can’t be beaten.

Address:  129 East Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

44. SlotZilla Zipline

Another great experience for folks who aren’t afraid of heights, the SlotZilla Zipline will let you soar over the streets of Las Vegas like a mighty bird of prey.

Instead of wings, however, you’ll be strapped into a zipline.

It’s called “SlotZilla” because it sends you through narrow, tunnel-like passages over Fremont Street.

You’ll be a human flying down a slot machine until you reach the end and declare a jackpot.

There are two ways to glide.

The first is a short, traditional zipline over a couple of blocks, and the second is a “zoomline” that will lay you prone like Superman for five blocks.

Both will be ridiculously fun, and they’ll let you see the sights of Las Vegas from a brand new perspective.

Are you looking for the best ways to kill some time on Fremont Street?

Climb into a SlotZilla Zipline and take flight over the roof tops.

Your vacation story will definitely be the envy of your friends!

Address:  425 Fremont St #160, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

45. Aliante Nature Discovery Park

JohnNovak / flickr

The Aliante Nature Discovery Park is located in North Las Vegas, an area that’s known for being calmer and quieter than the “real” Las Vegas.

Since it’s a nice, tranquil sort of park, it does back up that belief.

Just know that “tranquil” doesn’t mean “boring.”

There are a lot of fun amenities here, including playgrounds, nature trails, splash pads, tennis courts, volleyball courts and more.

Its most famous feature is a Dino Dig Sandbox that allows little archaeologists to find rocks and fossils underneath the sand.

A gigantic triceratops skull serves as a landmark, so you can’t miss it.

You don’t have to hike into the deserts of Nevada to get away from the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Just go a little bit north.

Places like the Aliante Nature Discovery Park will be ready and waiting for you.

Address:  2627 Nature Park Dr, North Las Vegas, NV 89084, United States

46. Hoover Dam

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Though it’s located on the Colorado River, the Hoover Dam is the property of Nevada, and it’s considered one of the major points of interest of Las Vegas.

It’s about 40 minutes away, but you don’t have to make the drive yourself; there are ample shuttles that go back and forth from the hotels of the Strip to the front of the Dam.

The sights are amazing.

Originally constructed from 1931 – 1936, it was such an ambitious project that it required millions of dollars and even more millions of pounds of concrete.

Infamously, there were also more than 100 deaths among construction workers.

A memorial plaque reads, “They died to make the desert bloom.”

Today, the Hoover Dam stands as a testament to their effort, ingenuity and sacrifice.

It’s a great place for walks, tours and photos, and it’s a must do if you’re interested in the history of Nevada.

Las Vegas isn’t the only gem in the state.

There are other, equally interesting sites that you should check out, including the Hoover Dam.

Address:  795 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

47. Count’s Kustoms

Ted Drake / flickr

If you’ve ever seen Counting Cars, you’re already familiar with Count’s Kustoms .

It’s the headquarters for the show, which is a Pawn Stars spinoff that deals with the restoration and customization of classic vehicles, and it’s just as cool in real life as it is on television.

Free tours are available for the showroom.

Photos are allowed, and if you ask nicely, some of the stars might pose for selfies.

VIP tours offer a more immersive experience, and they’ll also take you off-site to other businesses owned by Count.

You’ll see a welder’s shop and a tattoo shop as well as Count’s personal car collection.

You’ll even be chauffeured by a bus that was personally customized by him!

Maybe you’re a fan of the show.

Maybe you’ve never heard of it before, but you love vintage cars.

Either way, Count’s Kustoms is one of the baddest places in Las Vegas, so you should definitely drop by if you aren’t afraid of gleaming rims and attitudes to match.

Address:  2714 S Highland Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

48. Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park

Ken Lund / flickr

Before Las Vegas was Las Vegas, it was a scraggly stretch of land where nothing grew and no one lived.

It wasn’t until June 14, 1855 that European settlers stumbled on the place and decided to raise a town from the dirt.

These folks were Mormons, and they built the Old Mormon Fort.

Despite the name, the fort wasn’t meant for military troops.

It was built by Mormons, after all!

It just favored high adobe walls for defense against animals and the occasional Native American attack.

Today, the fort is considered a cultural relic of Nevada, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and protected by its status as a state park.

You can take a tour, but you’ll need to follow the rules while you’re there.

If you like learning about the history of your travel destinations, you’ll love the origin story behind the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park .

It’s central to both the city of Las Vegas and the state of Nevada, so it’s one of the best places to go for self-education.

Address:  500 E Washington Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

49. Adventuredome

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If you’re wondering what to do in Vegas on a rainy day, consider a trip to the Adventuredome .

It’s a gigantic indoor amusement park with everything from roller coasters to bungee jumping stations, so it can provide hours of entertainment regardless of what the weather is like.

As a bonus, it’s open 365 days per year, so it’ll always be an option for you and the kids even if you’re visiting Las Vegas in the off-season.

Activities include rides, carnival games, arcade games, bumper cars, laser adventures and mini golf courses.

Fitness buffs will enjoy the rock climbing wall; technology enthusiasts will appreciate the virtual reality simulations.

There are even things like clown shows for folks who aren’t afraid of big red noses.

When you need a break from all of the excitement, check out the restaurants near the amusement park.

You’ll find everything from cheap pizzerias to high-class steakhouses depending on your mood, taste and budget.

The Adventuredome is easily one of the most fun things to do in Las Vegas, so if you’re looking for the top destinations in the city, put it on your bucket list.

Everyone should visit an indoor amusement park at least once.

Address:  2880 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

50. XS Nightclub at Wynn

Jonathan Cutrer / flickr

Rumored to be the most expensive club ever built, the XS Nightclub at Wynn is a lavishly-decorated space that includes everything from glass chandeliers and golden couches to poolside patios with bikini-clad girls hopping in and out of the water.

It’s basically a playground for adults with all of the shameless splendor that you’d expect from Las Vegas.

The bar offers drink and bottle services.

The music comes from headliner DJs and live bands.

Lounge areas can be reserved by VIPs, or you can join the general crowd on the dance floor to make some new friends.

If you really want to splurge while you’re in Las Vegas, ask about the Ono Cocktail.

It costs $10,000 and includes shots of rare cognacs and champagnes.

It’s said to be popular with high rollers from nearby casinos.

The name XS comes from the fact that the club was inspired by “the sexy curves of the human body.”

It’ll be up to you to decide if it lives up to the promise, but no matter what, the XS Nightclub at Wynn is definitely one of the top places to go in Las Vegas.

Address:  3131 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

51. Nevada Southern Railroad Museum

Travel Nevada / flickr

You never really outgrow your train phase, and at the Nevada Southern Railroad Museum , you can embrace it like you’re seven years old again.

Dozens of life-sized locomotives are displayed outdoors.

Some are fully operational and open for rides; depending on the ticket that you buy, you can either relax in the cab or get behind the controls and actually direct the caravan.

Indoors, the museum offers information stations that detail names, dates, model numbers and other fun facts about trains and how they’ve shaped the region.

The Nevada Southern Railroad Museum is a must do for train lovers, but you can still enjoy it even if you’re a casual hobbyist or history buff.

It’s located a little outside of Las Vegas, so it’s not quite a city attraction, but that’s okay.

Once you’re feeling the wind in your hair and hearing the glorious choo choo, you’ll be glad that you took the time to visit.

Address:  601 Yucca St, Boulder City, NV 89005, United States

52. Luxor Las Vegas

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You’ve seen the Roman architecture of Caesars Palace.

You’ve admired the Parisian runways of the Fashion Show.

Now it’s time to travel to Egypt!

With its mammoth pyramid, the Luxor towers over other buildings in Las Vegas.

It’s 350 feet tall at its highest point, and its atrium is one of the largest in the world in cubic footage.

There’s also a gigantic stone pharaoh sitting outside of the pyramid to guard it.

Inside, you’ll enjoy food, lodging, gaming, clubbing and more.

Special exhibits have ranged from mummy collections to blockbuster movie screenings.

Carrot Top is a regular here, and so is the Blue Man Group.

Jimmy Fallon stops by when he’s in town.

Did we mention that the Luxor also projects a humongous beam of light over Las Vegas?

You’ll definitely see it while you’re in the city.

It’s visible from more than 275 miles away.

Thanks to the exotic, far-flung cultures that are represented by its tourist attractions, Las Vegas is a city where you can travel the world without ever leaving Nevada.

Luxor is just one of these alluring locales, but it’s among the best.

Book a room today and you could be ready to walk like an Egyptian by the end of this week!

Address:  3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

53. Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Another great destination for kids, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum offers everything from interactive science exhibits to jaw-dropping animal models that showcase some of the coolest creatures on Earth.

Animatronic dinosaurs growl at guests.

Gigantic whale figures hang over the ceiling.

An open marine exhibit will let you observe eels and baby sharks without the usual glass in the way.

There are statistic exhibits as well, and they’re just as exciting as the others.

You can see King Tut’s golden throne; you can explore entire habitats of mounted animals; you can marvel at ancient fossils and colorful collections of glow-in-the-dark minerals.

Without a doubt, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is one of the things not to miss in the city.

It’s fun; it’s interactive; it’s available rain or shine for visitors of all ages.

What’s not to love?

Address:  900 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

54. Graceland Wedding Chapel

time anchor / flickr

If you’re heading to Las Vegas to get hitched, you should consider Graceland Wedding Chapel for your walk down the aisle.

It has the unique distinction of being the world’s first destination for Elvis-themed weddings, and even though copycats have cropped up over the years, the original is still the best.

There are several marriage packages that you can consider.

Some of them don’t even involve the King; they have themes like “Las Vegas Storybook Wedding” and “Las Vegas VIP Wedding,” and their price includes roses, boutonnieres and chapel music.

The biggest draw, however, is definitely the “Elvis Presley Ceremony.”

It involves a rhinestone-studded Elvis posing for photos, giving away the bride and singing some of his greatest hits at the reception.

You can don silk lei necklaces and rock star sunglasses for your wedding portraits.

It’s one of the most unique things that you’ll ever experience.

Are you looking for a fun, one-of-a-kind way to exchange your vows?

The Graceland Wedding Chapel is one of the best places to get married in Las Vegas.

It’s a city that rings with the sounds of “I do,” but only in this chapel can you also hear “Blue Hawaii.”

Address:  619 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

55. Burlesque Hall of Fame

Burlesque Hall of Fame

Burlesque has a long, proud history, and the Burlesque Hall of Fame is dedicated to developing, preserving and showcasing it.

The displays are filled with props and costumes.

Vintage memorabilia is everywhere.

The theater holds movie nights on the regular, and special events include everything from dance classes to gallery showings of vintage paintings and collectibles.

The best thing about the Burlesque Hall of Fame, however, is that it’s the host of the annual Miss Exotic World competition.

If you’re a fan of the art form, this is basically the Met Gala of burlesque.

The Burlesque Hall of Fame is the only organization of its kind, so it’s rather fitting that it’s located in Las Vegas.

The city has done a lot for burlesque, and burlesque has done a lot for the city.

This museum is a place of mutual appreciation for a long-running relationship.

Address:  1027 S Main St #110, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States

56. Dig This

Roman Korotkov / Shutterstock

If you’ve ever wanted to crush a car with a bulldozer, here’s your chance.

Dig This is a crazy, one-of-a-kind recreational site where you can rent heavy machinery just for fun.

Some common activities include:

– Digging trenches – Stacking tires – Making gigantic mounds of dirt and debris – Crushing components of broken cars and other garbage

You can even play games like Excavator Basketball and Bulldozer Teeter-Totter!

No experience is necessary, but you’ll need to take lessons from a certified instructor before you’re allowed to play on your own, and you’ll also need to prove that you’re sober before you get behind the wheel.

This might be harder than it sounds since you’re vacationing in Las Vegas, but safety always comes first with heavy machines!

Dig This is one of the most unique experiences that you can have in Las Vegas, Nevada.

If you want to do something totally crazy while you’re in town, this is it.

Address:  800 W Roban Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89044, United States

57. Coyote Springs Golf Club

Coyote Springs Golf Club

You don’t have to stay in the heart of the city to find fun things to do in Las Vegas.

In fact, if you’re willing to venture about an hour’s drive into the desert landscapes of northern Nevada, you can have a great time at the Coyote Springs Golf Club .

The courses themselves are nice and green, but they’re surrounded on all sides by red and brown rock from nearby mountains.

If you squint, you can just make out the sand dunes that seem to ripple like water in the wind.

They’re such stunning sights that you won’t even mind if you bogey.

When you finish on the green, hit up the bar and grill to refresh and refuel, or take in one of the many tournaments that are always on the schedule.

If you’re coming to Las Vegas for work, you can even schedule your own events for corporate retreats or team-building exercises.

The Coyote Springs Golf Club is one of the nicer places to go for golfing.

You’ll need to be willing to exchange the neon lights for desert dunes, but in the end, your swing will thank you for it.

Address:  3100 NV-168, Moapa, NV 89025, United States

58. Circus Circus Las Vegas

If you’ve always wanted to experience a big top circus, check out Circus Circus Las Vegas .

It’s the last one in the entire state of Nevada, and of the scattered few that remain around the world, it’s both the oldest and largest.

Traditional acts include everything from clowns to trapeze artists.

More modern activities include a casino, a ballroom and a betting facility for sports and horses.

AdventureDome is here, so if you want to ride a roller coaster or climb an indoor rock wall, just look for the gigantic dome.

You can also visit places like Splash Zone for water slides and swimming pools as far as the eye can see.

Circus Circus Las Vegas is a whimsical place where adults and kids can both enjoy a taste of old-school fun.

You should check it out while you still have the chance.

While there’s no indication that it’ll close anytime soon, big tops are a dying breed, so there’s no telling how long it will stick around.

59. Floyd Lamb Park

One of the quieter destinations of Las Vegas, Floyd Lamb Park offers several hundred acres of lush vegetation for visitors who want to get away from the noise and pollution of the city for awhile.

Nature trails wind through the park for walking, jogging and mountain biking.

Picnic areas have freshly-cut grass and the sweet fragrance of flowers.

You can fish at the lake or take a tour of the historic homes on the waterfront; you can attend a farmer’s market on the weekends or a festive light show during the holidays.

Escape the daily grind with a trip to Floyd Lamb Park.

It showcases some of Nevada’s most exquisite scenery, and it proves that there’s a lot more to the state than just desert flatlands.

There’s real beauty to be found here, and you can soak it all in when you visit the right parks.

Address:  9200 Tule Springs Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89131, United States

60. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

Weichen / Shutterstock

The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is located within the Flamingo Hotel, but you don’t have to be a guest to visit it.

You don’t have to pay anything, either.

It’s one of the rare free attractions of Las Vegas!

A colorful flock of flamingos will greet you upon entry.

They’re joined by other fun and exotic animals, including parrots, pelicans, swans, ducks, turtles and koi fish.

Daily feedings are open to the public at no charge, so if you’ve always wondered what a flamingo eats or how a turtle looks when they’re munching on strawberries, this is your chance to satisfy your curiosity.

The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat isn’t one of the showy things to see in Las Vegas, but it’ll be a pleasant way to spend an hour or two.

It’s especially nice if you’re looking for budget-friendly vacation ideas.

Sin City can get expensive, but you can outsmart the dealer when you play your hand here!

Address:  3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

61. Maverick Helicopters

Maverick Helicopters

It’s hard to say goodbye to Las Vegas, but with a helicopter tour, at least you can depart in a grand, spectacular fashion that will truly embody the spirit of the city.

Maverick Helicopters isn’t the only helicopter company in Las Vegas, but it’s one of the best.

You can choose from several predetermined routes that will take you through everything from the Strip to the Hoover Dam.

You can even schedule a longer trip to the Grand Canyon and back!

Tours are available day and night, so if you want to watch a sunrise over the skyscrapers or see the neon lights come to life when it gets dark, all that you have to do is sign up.

You might have climbed the observation tower or ridden the Ferris wheel, but until you’ve flown above the city in a helicopter, you haven’t truly experienced the aerial wonder of Las Vegas.

Get in touch with Maverick Helicopters to say goodbye to the city with a view unlike any other.

Address:  6075 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Las Vegas

If you’re wondering what to see in Las Vegas, Nevada, these are just a few ideas to get you started.

It might seem like a long list, but it barely scratches the surface of this fun, lively city.

Las Vegas is truly the entertainment capital of the world, so get out there and have a blast!

Touropia Travel

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18 Top Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas

By Carl Austin · Last updated on June 17, 2024

Renowned around the world for its glitzy casinos, luxury themed resorts, and endless entertainment options, Las Vegas really is like no other place on Earth. Set amidst the arid and desolate confines of the Mojave Desert, the alluring sights, sounds and shows of ‘Sin City’ lie in the south of Nevada, not far from lots of incredible scenery and landscapes.

While there is certainly more to the city than just its Strip, most of the main tourist attractions in Las Vegas, massive hotels, and iconic landmarks lie along its busy boulevard. Here you can find not only the humongous High Roller but celebrity chef-run restaurants and casinos putting on unforgettable Cirque du Soleil shows and music concerts. With so many things to do all day and all night, Las Vegas certainly makes for a memorable holiday destination.

See also: Where to Stay in Las Vegas

18. Neon Museum

As Las Vegas is famous for its bright and colorful signs that line the Strip and entice visitors into its casinos, bars, and resorts, it is well worth visiting the Neon Museum when in town. Tucked away on the edge of downtown, it offers an interesting look at the city’s history and culture through signs.

While taking a tour of its hundreds of cheery, colorful signs, you’ll learn about iconic landmarks such as Caesars Palace and the Riviera and how Las Vegas evolved into a top tourist destination. Its outdoor ‘Neon Boneyard Park’ is particularly impressive at night when all the lit-up signs stand out delightfully against the dark sky.

17. Pinball Hall of Fame

Home to hundreds of old pinball machines and classic arcade games, the Pinball Hall of Fame can be found just minutes from the Strip. Set right next to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, it is a very fun and family friendly place to visit that can keep you entertained for hours.

Crammed inside the unique museum are around four hundred pinball games for you to play with the earliest ones dating to the 1940s. While strolling about amidst all of its bright flashing lights, you’ll come across rare and vintage games lying alongside more modern machines and models.

16. Cirque du Soleil

If it is an absolutely unforgettable spectacle you are after in Las Vegas, then you won’t want to miss catching a Cirque du Soleil performance. The legendary entertainment troupe performs a number of incredible acrobatic acts and spellbinding shows nightly in various resorts along the Strip.

While Treasure Island’s ‘Mystere’ features dazzling dance routines and death-defying acrobatics, the Bellagio hosts ‘O’ – an artistic and aquatic tribute to the beauty of theater. Yet other superb shows in the city include the action-packed, martial arts-filled ‘Ka’, and vibrant musical and visual tributes to both Michael Jackson and the Beatles with all Cirque’s shows making for enthralling spectacles.

15. Wynn Las Vegas Casino

Widely considered to be one of the best luxury resorts in the world, the award-winning Wynn Las Vegas also has a gorgeous casino for visitors and guests to enjoy. Decadently decorated, its art and floral-filled galleries have all kinds of games for you to try in a chic and sophisticated setting.

Since opening in 2005, its countless table games, slot machines, and poker rooms have proved to be very popular with high-flyers while the casino’s incredible entrance attracts just as many people. This is because stunning waterfalls plunge into the lovely Lake of Dreams below which is backed by man-made mountains and is magically lit up at night.

14. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

One of the most popular and photographed landmarks in town, the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign has been welcoming visitors to the city since 1959. Set just to the south of the Strip and all its sights, the sign is a must-see attraction and looks particularly arresting at night time.

Designed by local artist Betty Willis, the colorful sign and its distinct lights and lettering can be found not far from Mandalay Bay and the Little Church of the West. While it already makes for some fantastic photos during the day, at night the sign’s flashing lights really epitomize the spirit of Las Vegas and its distinctive look and feel.

13. Hoover Dam

Straddling the border between Nevada and Arizona, the humongous Hoover Dam certainly makes for a striking sight. Once the largest dam in the world, it lies just forty-five minutes to the east of the city right next to Lake Mead and all its amazing recreation opportunities.

Built in 1935, the massive dam towers to over two hundred meters in height and is set in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. Besides basking in its scenic setting and enjoying fine views from atop of it, visitors can also take tours around the dam to learn about its history, how it works and the impact it had on Las Vegas.

12. High Roller

Also set on the Strip you can find the High Roller which reaches a staggering height of 167 meters and is impressively the highest observation wheel in the world. As is offers up simply spectacular views of Las Vegas, the Strip, and its surroundings, going for a ride on the giant Ferris wheel really is a must when in town.

Only opened in 2014, it lies just across the street from Caesars Palace and is beautifully illuminated by thousands of LED lights at night. While taking a spin in one of its sleek passenger cabins, audio commentary informs you all about the sights you can see below.

11. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

While it only lies twenty minutes’ drive west of the city, the stunning landscapes and scenery of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area feel a million miles away from the sights and sounds of the Strip. A treat to explore, its colorful canyons offer up all kinds of excellent outdoor activities with stupendous views and nature wherever you go.

A very popular and picturesque place, the park attracts millions of visitors each year due to its ease of access, wealth of activities and dramatic scenery. Besides hiking and biking, you can enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding and camping or scenic drives amidst its ruddy rock formations.

10. New York-New York Hotel & Casino

The Big Apple roller coaster at the New York New York Hotel & Casino definitely isn’t a ride for the faint of heart. It’s a heavenly ride for thrill seekers, however, drawing 1.4 million riders annually.

It’s the world’s first roller coaster with a 180-degree to twist and dive, meaning riders will be upside down part of the time, with the coaster zipping along at 67 mph. The outdoor track is less than a mile long, with the coaster taking riders up to 180 feet in the air and then drops as much as 140 feet.

9. Paris Las Vegas

Great views of Las Vegas await travelers who partake of the Eiffel Tower Experience at Paris Las Vegas. This half-scale replica of the real thing reaches 46 stories into the sky, ensuring it is a Vegas landmark. Once at the observation deck, visitors are treated to 360-degree views of Las Vegas.

On a clear day, one can clearly see forever. Don’t recognize any of the landmarks? Not to worry, staff will name them. The views are particularly stunning at night when the city that never sleeps is lit up like a Christmas tree.

8. Mob Museum

Want to relive the days when the mob ruled not only Las Vegas, but the rest of the United States? The Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas offers the opportunity to learn more about the mob and organized crime in this country.

This non-profit museum explores organized crime from its beginnings to today through exhibits and interactive activities. Learn about mobsters and G-men, molls and speakeasies, bootleggers and casino skimmers, and present-day mob activities. Oh, this $42 million museum was financed by government funds, not the mob.

7. The Venetian Las Vegas

Venice, Italy, is famous for its canals and singing gondoliers, but travelers won’t need a passport to ride the Grand Canal at the Venetian Casino Resort in Nevada’s largest city. The Venetian named their premier shopping mall the Grand Canal, then built a canal through it.

Gondolas, complete with costumed singing gondoliers, guide their craft under bridges and balconies, and past shops with exterior décor that mimics the real thing. Couples can share a kiss under the Rialto Bridge or any of the other bridges, for that matter. Here’s to smooth sailing!

6. Fremont Street Experience

The Fremont Street Experience is an attraction no visitor to Las Vegas should miss. Located on a five-block section of Fremont Street, known as Glitter Gulch in the city’s early years, the Fremont Street Experience is a top-notch sound and light show that will wow the senses. Colorful displays of lights and loud music take place several times a night under a 90-foot high canopy.

Casinos and other businesses turn off their lights, a signal that a light show is about to begin. More than 12 million LED lights streak through the pedestrian mall located in the historic section of Las Vegas. The show can only be described as “totally awesome.”

5. The Mirage

Located on the Strip, the Mirage is a Polynesian-themed casino and hotel with 3,044 rooms. The “volcano” at the Mirage Casino may be the world’s only volcano that doesn’t stink when it erupts. This volcano, which erupts nightly from 8 p.m. to midnight, spews out a pina colada scent. This faux volcano also erupts to a soundtrack of actual volcanoes erupting.

The Mirage is full of other attractions, including a huge aquarium located behind the hotel’s front desk. The aquarium is home to 450 fish that swim around an artificial coral reef. Suited-up divers clean the tank several times weekly in the early morning, providing another unique sight to see.

4. Caesars Palace

A larger-than-life resort, Caesars Palace was dreamed up and built Jay Sarno, who worked hard building motels in the 1950’s. His love for gambling led him to Las Vegas, where he envisioned a casino much more glamorous than what the Strip had been offering. And so Caesars Palace opened in 1966 at a cost of $24 million, and was unlike anything Las Vegas had seen.

With fountains and pools and employees in Roman-themed uniforms, it was an immediate hit, and set the standard for the themed-hotels that are so common in Sin City today. The casino has made an appearance in several Hollywood movies since it opened its doors including the Academy Award-winning film Rain Main and the 2009 hit comedy The Hangover.

3. Stratosphere Tower

Major Vegas hotels center around themes or special gimmicks to draw visitors. The Stratosphere Hotel is no exception. It is home to the Stratosphere Tower, which, at 1,149 feet (350 meters) high, is the tallest freestanding tower in the United States. The observation deck is THE place to go for spectacular 360-degree views of the city and surrounding terrain.

Since the tower is open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends, it’s a good place to see Las Vegas at its glittering best. One of the most visited attractions in Las Vegas, the tower will appeal to daredevils and thrill seekers too who, for a fee, can sky jump off the tower at 855 feet (261 meters).

2. Bellagio

Travelers can hit a daily double when visiting the Bellagio Casino, famous for its dancing fountains, and conservatory and botanical gardens. The garden has so many plants, it takes 140 horticulturists to maintain it as well as plan holiday-themed displays. Experts also answer visitors’ gardening questions daily in the conservatory.

As impressive as the gardens are, the fountains are even more awesome. They explode in a fusion of light and music, ranging from opera to Broadway tunes, frequently throughout the day and night. It’s hard to argue with Bellagio when it refers to this show as “the most ambitious, choreographically complex water feature ever conceived.”

1. The Strip

Casinos can be found throughout Las Vegas, but the strip, a stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South, contains the most of them. It features giant mega-casino hotels, decorated with lavish care and attention to detail to create a fantasy-like atmosphere.

The casinos often have names and themes that evoke romance, mystery, and far-away destination. Walking along the strip is a fun and reasonable option as the casinos are close to each other. In most cases, hotels are connected to each other either by bridge or underground or in the case of the Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay, by a complimentary rail shuttle.

Be aware that during the summer, the oppressive heat during the daylight hours may make walking a very uncomfortable activity.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas

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35 Best Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas

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The party of all parties; where the drinks flow round the clock, where world-renowned celebrities grace stages all over town, and where millions and millions of tourists flock without fail, year after year, in search of a much-needed getaway, Las Vegas — or, as this Mojave Desert icon has very appropriate been dubbed, Sin City — is where debauchery, delight, and razzle-dazzle intertwine in spectacular fashion.

Despite its chaotic reputation, there remains far more to the Entertainment Capital of the World than just high-stakes casinos, wild nightclubs, and slot machines around every corner — the list of tourist attractions in Las Vegas is, surprisingly, incredibly diverse : there’s something that will satisfy families, nature-lovers, shopaholics, thrill-seekers, and foodies craving nothing less than world-class dining.

On and off the Strip, there are mobster and neon museums , haunted mansions, and resorts that transport you to the highlights of Paris, Venice, New York and Hollywood. Dig a little deeper and you’ll discover expansive pool decks (including one aptly named the Garden of the Gods), resident comedy stars, circus performances that inspire and amaze, and romantic activities for couples aplenty.

Oh, and we can’t forget the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon just a few hours away from Las Vegas either!

No matter your age, interests, or budget, there’s an attraction in this tourist metropolis that will have you grinning ear to ear — so, without further ado, let’s dive into 35 of the very best tourist attractions in Las Vegas!

1 – Bellagio

The Bellagio is one of the most well-known (and extravagant) hotels on The Strip, oozing opulence not only in its lavish suites but throughout its entire amenity and attraction-filled complex.

Beyond its AAA Five Diamond Award-winning accommodations, the hotel features a world-renowned art collection (Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art) including pieces from masters like Picasso and Matisse; an enchanting, 14,000-square-foot indoor Conservatory & Botanical Gardens that changes with the seasons; and an array of distinct restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs.

If you’re not sure where to start, the Jasmine restaurant has been coined “ the most beautiful Chinese restaurant in the world ” and seldom disappoints, while Mayfair After Dark , inspired by 1920s New York City, Paris, and Berlin, beckons for a nightcap.

But arguably its most famous attraction — and certainly its most photographed — is the Bellagio Fountains . Water jets choreographed to music dance in front of the hotel tower in an ever-changing show that delights guests day and night.

As for entertainment, the hotel is home to Cirque du Soleil’s O , sure to captivate audiences with its spellbinding acrobatics, synchronized swimming, live music daring stunts, and mystifying set design; there’s a spa and multiple pools for some much-needed pampering, and the casino floor never sleeps.

• Cirque du Soleil tickets

2 – Luxor

Looking like a piece of Egypt, smack-bang in the middle of The Strip, The Luxor is one of Sin City’s most unique hotels, thanks in no small part to its towering pyramid design and Sphinx-adorned facade.

While it may not boast the Bellagio’s star power, what the Luxor lacks in elegance it makes up for in sheer size and variety of attractions . From a massive casino floor filled with all your favorite table games and slots machines to its long list of live shows (with names like Blue Man Group, Carrot Top, and the adults-only Fantasy).

For visiting families, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition takes you on a trip back in time aboard the ill-fated cruise ship in 1912, complete with 250 rare artifacts and room reconstructions, including a full-size replica of the Grand Staircase.

• Titanic The Artifact Exhibition tickets

Then there’s Bodies: The Exhibition , a quirky insight into the fascinating human body — full of skeletons, you’ll find 13 human bodies and over 260 organs on display.

And gamers, take note: The Luxor is also home to the HyperX Esports Arena, where tournaments and freeplay invite button-mashers to test out the latest and greatest games, with a 50-foot LED video wall, bar, and on-site food to boot.

So, as you can see, there’s something for everyone here.

• Luxor Hotel show tickets

3 – Las Vegas Strip

The epicenter of Sin City’s chaos, entertainment and debauchery, the Las Vegas Strip is a world-famous stretch of road that’s home to some of the most iconic hotels and casinos on the planet.

While it would be impossible to see them all in one go, we recommend at least paying a visit (or two) to some of these glittering giants: The Venetian with its indoor canals and Gondola rides; Caesars Palace with its marble hallways, 50-foot ceilings, and award-winning Colosseum performance venue; or Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino with its Shark Reef aquarium and House of Blues concert venue.

And if you’re feeling lucky, why not try your hand at the tables or slots? With names like Wynn, MGM Grand, and The Mirage, the casinos on the Strip are some of the most luxurious and prestigious in the world .

Throw in M&Ms World, the roller coasters at New York-New York, the LINQ’s shopping promenade, Madame Tussauds Was Museum, and the around-the-clock street performers (not to mention the restaurants or nightclubs), and the list of things to do on the Las Vegas Strip only lengthens.

4 – The Escape Game Las Vegas

Think you’ve got what it takes to escape from a locked room? Then put your skills to the test at The Escape Game Las Vegas , one of the best family things to do in Las Vegas with teens . Located inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, this immersive, quick-thinking puzzle invites teams of up to six players to solve a series of riddles and clues in order to make their escape. With just 60 minutes on the clock, the pressure is palpable.

You might have to decode hieroglyphics, decipher secret codes, or even find hidden objects using blacklight — but with a bit of teamwork, a whole lot of wit, and plenty of brainpower, anything is possible.

The rooms are designed for all ages and group sizes (although smaller groups may find it a little trickier), so it’s the perfect activity for families, friends, or coworkers looking for some team-building fun . Just be warned: once you’ve tried it, you’ll be hooked!

Thankfully, there is no shortage of escape rooms around the city: from intricate heists to classic prison breaks, a historic gold rush, or even the kid-friendly Rugrats-themed adventure, there’s something for everyone.

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5 – MGM Grand

World-famous for its luxurious accommodation, decadent casino, and celebrity-studded events, MGM Grand is one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas Strip.

Step inside and you’ll be dazzled by the towering atrium lobby. Check into your room and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice: from standard rooms to deluxe suites fit for royalty, there’s something to suit everyone’s needs (and budget).

And if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also boasts a sprawling 4-pool complex, a special Hunger Games exhibition, and a range of restaurants and bars (if it’s fine dining you crave, look no further than Joël Robuchon, Picasso, or NoMad Library).

Looking to party into the early hours of the morning? Welcoming international superstar DJs, Hakkasan is one of Vegas’ premier nightclubs ; for a more low-key night of entertainment, check out the Jabbawockeez or laugh your socks off at Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club !

Of course, no trip to MGM Grand would be complete without a visit to its flagship performance: KÀ™ by Cirque du Soleil — a magical mix of music, special effects, acrobatics, martial arts, and aerial stunts that will leave you spellbound.

• MGM Grand show tickets

6 – Mirage

With a longstanding focus on elegance and sophistication (since 1989), the Mirage is commonly seen as one of Sin City’s top-tier mega-resorts.

Besides the expansive casino floor that offers luck-stricken travelers everything from high-stakes table games to dollar-or-two roulette (with free drinks to boot if you’re playing), the Mirage is perhaps most well-known for its exciting array of captivating nightly entertainment .

For a heavy dose of magic, grab a ticket to Shin Lim’s LIMITLESS show — the only person to win “America’s Got Talent” twice. Or, to take the immersive enchantment to the next level, you can’t go past Cirque du Soleil’s ‘The Beatles Love’ — a marvelous mesh of iconic melodies with daring acrobatics and special effects.

Looking for some laughs? The Mirage is also home to the coveted Aces On Comedy clubs , where side-splitting all-stars like Jim Jeffries and Amy Schumer grace the stage nightly.

A surefire hit for families, the Secret Garden & Dolphin Habitat gives guests the chance to mingle with Mother Nature’s finest.

Throw in endless restaurants and bars (be sure to try Tom Colicchio’s Heritage Steak) and plenty of poolside space to relax, and it’s easy to see why the Mirage is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Las Vegas.

• Mirage Hotel show tickets

7 – The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod

A magnet for adventure lovers and thrill seeks (and anyone who appreciates a good old panoramic view), the STRAT is one of the newest hotels on the Vegas Strip and boasts an impressive 1,149-feet-high SkyPod observation deck .

Besides gaming tables, slots, and all the other trappings of a traditional casino, the STRAT also offers an 8th-floor pool deck that dishes up sweeping views of the northern side of the Strip . Take the elevator to the top, though, and that’s where the fun really begins. With unique, heart-racing experiences like Insanity, X-Scream, Big Shot and SkyJump, you can be dangling 1000 feet over the streets of Vegas !

If white-knuckle thrills aren’t quite your thing, there’s always the chance to catch a show — from stand-up comedy in Vegas’ branch of the LA Comedy Club (in the intimate 160-seat Dragon Room) to magic shows and rock performers (usually in the Strat Theater), world-renowned headliners can be seen here every night of the week.

And if you’re feeling peckish after all that excitement, no worries! There are close to a dozen eateries on-site , so you’ll definitely find something to sate your appetite. For prime luxury with a side of prime rib, the rotating restaurant on the 106th floor is quintessential (followed by a tipple on the 107th-floor Skylounge).

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8 – Neon Museum

An eclectic (and very electric) attraction tucked away a little bit off the main tourist track, but well worth a visit for anyone interested in all things history, Vegas, and neon (and who isn’t?), the Neon Museum is an outdoor museum located in downtown Las Vegas that takes visitors of a journey back in time to when Vegas’ reputation was less about slot machines and more about the mob .

Displaying over 200 fascinating restored signs — some of which are instantly recognizable, like the enormous neon Hard Rock guitar, while others date back decades like the Stardust casino sign — they were once proudly hung on Sin City’s main attractions, but due to closures, renovations or upgrades, have found themselves a new home in the sandy desert.

A visit to this museum is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas at night , when everything is lit up, with tours available 7 days a week, a stroll through the Neon Museum is a photographer’s delight and a surefire way to spark a few memories.

9 – New York-New York Hotel & Casino

A whimsical and family-friendly slice of Manhattan in the Mojave desert, the New York-New York Hotel & Casino is a towering tribute to the Big Apple . From its facade replicating the Manhattan skyline (complete with Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building) to its replica Brooklyn Bridge, this hotel is oozing with Americana charm.

And it’s not just for show — dozens of restaurants (check out Gallagher’s Steakhouse), bars, and stores found throughout the resort bring that hometown East Coast feeling to guests from all over. Plus, there are always events happening in the massive casino space (and T-Mobile Arena out the back), so check the website to see what’s on during your stay.

Popular for thrillseekers too, this themed, 2000-room hotel also boasts the fastest rollercoaster on the Las Vegas Strip : the Big Apple. At speeds of up to 67 miles per hour, it’s not for the faint of heat (but the rooftop views are certainly worthwhile if you can stomach the zero-gravity rolls!).

Before you meander down the Strip, make sure to grab a few free samples from Hershey’s Chocolate World out the front, or consider an insightful backstage tour of T-Mobile Arena, where you can walk in the footsteps of iconic musicians and sports stars.

10 – Excalibur Hotel

Delightfully themed around Camelot and King Arthur and catering to families and those on a budget, Excalibur is certainly one of the more underrated hotels in Las Vegas.

Inspired by medieval England, this sprawling resort at the south end of the Strip is home to an enormous 30,000 square feet pool deck, eight restaurants, a giant fitness center, nightly shows and, of course, plenty of spots to try your luck.

Adored by anyone with kids in tow, Excalibur’s Fun Dungeon offers over 200 different arcade and carnivalesque games, as well as the Ultimate 4D Experience — an immersive simulator ride that takes 15-minute clips of Hollywood blockbuster movies and turns the excitement dial up to eleven.

As for entertainment, the list is diverse: choose from The Australian Bee Gees Show , the Mac King Comedy Magic Show , or the Thunder from Down Under (think Magic Mike and chiseled abs).

The main event, however, is certainly the medieval-themed Tournament of Kings ! Adapted from the story of King Arthur, this high-energy, family-oriented show features jousting, horses, wizards and kings, and comes included with a hearty multi-course dinner.

• Excalibur Hotel show tickets

11 – Mob Museum

Did you know that before Sin City was Sin City, fueled by booze and bright lights, it was famous for its underground mafia crime? It’s true, and the Mob Museum tells that story in all its fascinating detail.

Housed in an old underground Prohibition-era speakeasy, this museum is dedicated to shedding light on the inner workings, crimes, sentences, and history of the mafia in America , as well as the law enforcement who continuously tried to break them down.

From interactive exhibits (try your hand at being a mobster yourself) to hundreds of artifacts and historical pieces on display, there’s something here for everyone interested in this dark yet fascinating (and still unfinished) chapter of American History.

Hot tip: check the website to see upcoming events — with regular live music nights, galas, speakers, and special artifact collections (like historic firearms), there’s always something new and exciting at the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement (that’s the official name, in case you were wondering).

• Mob Museum tickets

12 – SAHARA Las Vegas

Recently rebranded and renovated, spread across three towers, and located on the North End of The Strip in between the STRAT and Circus Circus, SAHARA is all about style, sophistication, service, and over-the-top opulence.

From live music (including residencies from some of the biggest names in pop) to comedy shows and burlesque, SAHARA has something for everyone — not to mention a roster of world-class restaurants including Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, Chickie’s & Pete’s (considered ESPN’s #1 Sports Bar in North America), Balla Italian Soul (from award-winning Chef, Shawn McClain) and more.

At over 60,000 square feet, the lit-up casino floor is expansive and alluring, while the on-site Amina Spa delivers the ultimate in relaxation and pampering with traditional massages, facials, and unique gingerbread or hot stone massages.

You’ll also find a gym if you’re looking to burn off a few beers worth of calories, plus several rooftop pools bars, two upbeat nightclubs, and regular live entertainment (think Magic Mike Live, and comedy shows like The Eddie Griffin Experience).

13 – Fremont Street

A tourist magnet in the heart of old-school downtown, Fremont Street is a one-of-a-kind experience that should be on everyone’s Las Vegas list .

Covered in a canopy of neon lights, this street is home to some of the most iconic (and vintage) casinos and hotels in town, as well as family-friendly attractions like SlotZilla Zipline (with two thrilling lines to choose from, the longer of which zooms for almost 1,700 feet above the pedestrian street below) and the enchanting Viva Vision light show.

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With nearly 1400 feet worth of digital canopy lighting up in marvelous colors and designs, accompanied by the tunes of top artists like The Killers or Tiesto, the overhead display sums up Fremont Street’s allure to a tee.

With regular live music performances, bars and restaurants lining the street, and unique shopping opportunities (with souvenir shops to boot), there’s always something new to explore at Fremont Street.

Hot tip: Check our article There are 4 Zip Lines in Las Vegas – Which One is Best? , and pick your favorite zip line.

14 – Mandalay Bay

Sure, the southern Strip’s Mandalay Bay plays host to one of Sin City’s most trafficked casinos, with all the bright lights, table games, and bells and whistles you could imagine, but beyond its glitz and glamour, it’s also home to some of the best tourist attractions and restaurants in town.

Fancy a feast? From chef Akira Back’s Kumi and Lupo by Wolfgang Puck, to the tantalizing Mexican fare at Diablo’s Cantina or the Mediterranean-inspired menu at Rivea Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay has something for everyone when it comes to high-end cuisine.

As for entertainment, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Shark Reef Aquarium, a surefire hit for families, houses over 2,000 aquatic animals of 100 different species and offers the chance to come face-to-face with sharks, rays and endangered green sea turtles.

• Shark Reef Aquarium tickets

Featuring more than 60 highly talented (even that is an understatement) artists, dancers, acrobats and musicians, Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson ONE fuses world-class entertainment and choreography with the King of Pop’s greatest hits — it’s been considered one of the best tourist attractions in Las Vegas for a long time.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there; Mandalay Bay boasts one of the city’s premier live music stages too, the 3000-seat House of Blues Music Hall where rock bands, country singers, and stand-up comedians (and your occasional themed dance party) grace the audience nightly; as well as the 12,000-seat Michelob ULTRA Arena , where some of the world’s biggest DJs, pop stars, and sporting events take place on the regular.

Hot tip: After all that dice-rolling and headbanging, kick back at lively and tropical Mandalay Bay Beach . Work on the tan in the morning before making your way to one of the two pumping beach clubs (Daylight or Moorea) for a wild afternoon.

15 – Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park

Hidden away inside of Circus Circus — one of the Strip’s longstanding, budget-friendly and family-oriented resorts — the 5-acre Adventuredome is a haven for kids (and kid-at-heart adults) of all ages.

Boasting more than 25 rides and attractions , including Canyon Blaster (the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster), bumper cars, mini-golf, log flumes, and classic carnival games, this is one stop you don’t want to miss during your visit to Las Vegas (especially if you can pop in during the Friday and Saturday Neon Nights events).

With everything from mild kiddie rides to heart-stopping thrillers , where you’re four or forty, there’s a handful of attractions tailored to ensuring you leave with a big old ear-to-ear grin

If your schedule lines up, Hot tip: Guaranteed to put a smile on the kids’ faces, check out the Friday and Saturday Neon Nights events!

16 – Treasure Island

In the heart of the action on the southern end of the Strip, yet still overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, the world-class Treasure Island hotel and casino delivers fine dining, A-grade entertainment, and luxury lodging in spades !

Besides nearly 3,000 lavish (yet comparably affordable) rooms, some of which feature floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the mountains and the Strip, Treasure Island also plays host to two formidable entertainment options: Mystère by Cirque du Soleil and Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T. I. O. N. .

Delivering a spectacle of magic and wonder, the former has been wowing audiences since 1993 with its blend of awe-inspiring circus arts and theatrical performance (complete with hilarious giant baby), while the latter is a totally immersive (and interactive) Avengers experience that lets guests step into the shoes of their favorite superheroes and admire over 100 costumes, props and artifacts from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

• Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T. I. O. N. tickets

Luck-testers will feel right at home here, too; TI has one of the widest arrays of table games on The Strip, as well as massive selections of slot machines.

If you’re looking to take in some tunes in between all the gambling and show-going, make sure to check out Gilley’s Saloon, which calls itself ‘The only real honky-tonk saloon on the Las Vegas Strip’, and pop into Señor Frogs for some waterside grub with a thriving party atmosphere.

17 – Discovery Children’s Museum

A Vegas family entertainment staple that fuses STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) with interactivity and a whole lot of fun , the three-floor, 58,000-square-foot Discovery Children’s Museum is a great place to take the kiddlywinks if you’re looking to beat the heat and learn a thing or two along the way

The perfect place for pint-sized Picassos and Einsteins-In-Training, Discovery offers climbing towers and arts and crafts, plus Toddler Town, Water World, a mini-city where kids can learn about future careers, and the investigative Solve It exhibition (to name just a few), as well a handful of collections and events that rotate on a regular basis, there’s always something new to see at the DCM.

18 – Pinball Hall of Fame

Where the throwbacks are delivered in droves, this iconic southern-Strip museum houses more than 200 classic pinball machines and video games — from Donkey Kong to Dr. Who, Sega Basketball, the Magic Baseball Game, Wheel of Fortune, Pacman, and everything in between — dating from the 1960s through the 1990s and beyond.

This 25,000-square-foot of gaming paradise, where nostalgia runs deep and the neon burns bright, boasts a collection of almost 1,000 pinball machines — with that feat in mind, it’s officially the world’s largest collection of functioning pinball machines, with cheap eats and hoards of playable games to boot.

Best of all? It’s free to check out! Just bring a handful of few quarters (or a few extra bucks if you’re after a quirky souvenir or two too).

19 – Lion Habitat Ranch

Looking for some fun things to do in Las Vegas during the day ?

Home to no less than 40 graceful and powerful kings of the jungle , the non-profit Lion Habitat Ranch is the perfect place to snap a selfie with a lion cub, learn about animal conservation, and see (and sometimes feed) some of the world’s most majestic creatures from up close.

Located in Henderson, Nevada, minutes from the Strip, this family-owned and -operated sanctuary offers guided and self-guided tours around its well-manicured grounds as well as an interactive ranch section where you can feed Ozzie the giraffe .

Want to take your experience to the next level? For a few extra bucks you can feed lions ($100 per pound of food), or sign up for ‘Feast with the Beasts’ where you’ll dine in an enclosure safely surrounded by big cats (just be sure to book ahead).

• Lion Habitat Ranch tickets

20 – AREA15

Where art, entertainment and events collide, AREA15 is a multi-dimensional destination that meshes creative events with immersive art installations and cutting-edge technology .

Wild and artistic events aside, the space also offers state-of-the-art VR experiences, the indoor Five Iron Golf attraction (where you can book private or group golf lessons), an ax-throwing station, an Emporium arcade, and a flight simulator.

For a cocktail under a twinkling neon forest, head to Oddwood, and for a hearty and quirky meal, head to The Beast for a food hall found in the belly of a dragon.

Tucked away off the beaten track, this digital oasis is easily one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Las Vegas and one of the best things to do off the Strip .

21 – Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

Do you have an inkling for the paranormal? A love for the bizarre and the strange? Well, so does Zak Bagans, the owner and face of Ghost Adventures, one of the Travel Channel’s most popular haunted shows.

At the city’s most eerie attraction, Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum — a spine-tingling, near-century-old haunted house where who-knows-what is hiding in the shadows, next to dozens of supposedly cursed objects — you can see some of the most haunted and cursed items in the world, including Charles Manson’s ashes, Ted Bundy’s glasses, Bela Lugosi’s Mirror, and Peggy the doll.

With more than 30 rooms that rival scenes from the spookiest Hollywood horror films , this spot is not for the faint of heart.

See also: cheap things to do in Las Vegas

22 – Hoover Dam

One of America’s engineering marvels , the fascinating and truly enormous (at 726 feet tall) Hoover Dam is a sight to behold.

Located just outside of Las Vegas in the town of Boulder City, Nevada, this iconic landmark was completed in 1936 and today welcomes more than 7 million visitors every year !

Accessible both solo and as part of a range of pre-organized excursions that include Vegas pickup and drop-off, the Hoover Dam offers insightful guided tours as well as an opportunity to walk across the top of the dam for some truly epic views (or cycle around the area’s trails).

For those looking for a little more adventure, why not add a little extra splash of adventure to your day trip and throw in some white-water rafting down the Colorado River?

• Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas

23 – Grand Canyon

Mother Nature sure knows how to spoil us, right? Just a couple hours drive from Sin City — or a short helicopter ride, if that’s more your jam — the Grand Canyon is one of the most majestic and awe-inspiring natural attractions on Earth .

Home to some of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes (looking at you, Horseshoe Bend), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a can’t-miss for any nature lover visiting Las Vegas — or southwestern USA, period.

Book a helicopter tour or a scenic flight for an unforgettable bird’s eye view, snap the quintessential pic from the Skywalk (don’t miss our blog post about Grand Canyon Skywalk tickets ), or venture down into the canyon on foot or by bike for up to a few hours or days worth of hiking trails that will take your breath away.

No matter how you choose to experience it, the Grand Canyon is sure to leave you feeling small in the best possible way.

For the best bang for your buck, consider a full-day adventure that also includes a visit to the Hoover Dam and Antelope Canyon . Or, for the ultimate experience, sign up for a multi-day National Parks Tour, during which you’ll also check off Zion , Bryce Canyon , and Monument Valley !

• Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas

Hot tip: Learn how to get from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon .

24 – Planet Hollywood

Bringing a touch of Tinseltown in the middle of the Mojave, you’ll uncover more than your fair share of glitz, glam, and celebrity-inspired entertainment at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Besides the obvious and lively casino floor, where the drinks flow and the games never stop, Planet Hollywood also boasts two pools, five bars, at least 20 eateries (including the highly-praised Gordon Ramsay Burger), and no less than 2500 rooms to suit a vast range of budgets.

Hunting for entertainment? With a direct association to Hollywood, it should come as no surprise that A-listers often take center stage here : artists like Shania Twain and Criss Angel perform on the regular, while all kinds of A-listers rotate through the Zappos Stage (check the schedule in advance!).

Prefer a day of poolside partying? Found on the hotel’s 6th floor, the Scene Pool Deck is hip, happening, and never shy of a wild party, with a Flowrider surf simulator and constant DJs livening up the atmosphere.

• Planet Hollywood Resort show tickets

25 – Paris Las Vegas

Immediately recognizable thanks to the two-to-one replica of the Eiffel Tower standing tall right in the heart of the Strip, Paris Las Vegas is one of Sin City’s most beloved (and picturesque) resorts.

On top of being one of the essential tourist attractions in Las Vegas for grabbing a selfie , the Parisienne icon offers sky-high dinners and sublime views from its observation deck 110 feet above the Las Vegas Strip.

• Eiffel Tower Experience tickets

Right at the base of the famous landmark, travelers flock to the Paris Las Vegas pool area, where, thanks to the backdrop as well as the bookable French Premium Villas, it’s become an Instagrammer’s delight.

Shopaholics, head straight to the indoor Le Boulevard mall; and foodies, buckle up to be whisked away to the wondrous world of French cuisine at Gordon Ramsay Steak, Brioche By Guy Savoy, and Cafe Belle Madeleine.

26 – Bally’s

While not the biggest resort on the Strip, Bally’s has been around for decades, delighting guests with its classic Vegas appeal since 1973 — don’t let that throw you off though, Bally’s is newly renovated and comes jam-packed with all the luxe touches, chic décor and modern amenities synonymous with Sin City.

What it may lack in reputation, Bally’s more than makes up for in affordability and attractions: the casino floor is a veritable Strip institution, there are several swimming pools, tennis courts and shopping spots to choose from, and both Caesars Palace, the Bellagio, MGM, the LINQ, and Planet Hollywood are just a short walk away should you feel like venturing out.

Across Bally’s two entertainment venues (the Magic Attic and the Jubilee Theater), choose from the mind-bending Farrell Dillon Comedy Magician show , Frederic Da Silva’s mind-reading magic , and the all-in-one dancing, singing, and acrobatic performance of Extravaganza – The Vegas Spectacular .

On-site, you’ll also find one of the more unique tourist attractions in Las Vegas: Real Bodies . Here, you can observe the working of the human body through real skeletons, and organs. Once you’re done, head over to the Twilight Zone for 18 alien and monster-themed mini-golf holes!

And, for some of the best shopping on the Strip (think high-end brands at discounted prices), head to The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace, just across the road

27 – Caesars Palace

A shining example of Las vegas opulence and spectacularly themed around ancient Rome, Caesars Palace is one of the most famous resorts on the Strip.

From its iconic casino floor to its 4000 luxurious rooms and suites, Caesars Palace has something for every Nevada visitor — and that’s before you even get to the 7 pools at the Garden of the Gods , world-famous shows in the $100 million Colosseum (think Celine Dion, Elton John, and Jerry Seinfeld), celebrity chef restaurants and round-the-clock shopping.

Party-goers, look no further than OMNIA Nightclub, where world-renowned DJs play till the sun comes up; shopaholics, make a feeling for The Forum Shops — an indoor mall with over 160 shops and eateries ranging from high-end designers like Gucci and Giorgio Armani, to fan favorites like Lulu Lemon and Apple, to more affordable fashion stores like H&M and Zara.

28 – Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

For when nature calls and you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful spot just 25 minutes west of Las Vegas.

The area offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, biking, scooter tours, bird watching and rock climbing , as well as opportunities to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Mojave Desert. And, for the ‘grammers, expect several lookouts with stunning views over Red Rock Canyon itself.

While visitors are more than welcome to venture out and explore, most travelers prefer to opt out of the organizing and sign up for a tour that includes transport, pickup and drop-off from Vegas proper (and the option to add a visit to the Valley of Fire ).

• Red Rock Canyon tours from Las Vegas

29 – LINQ High Roller

For 30 minutes of killer views and, if you’re up for it, unlimited drinks, look no further: the High Roller is not only Las Vegas’ tallest observation wheel, but the largest in North America , with 28 glass-enclosed cabins that provide stunning panoramas of the Strip and the suburbs and desert beyond.

After soaring 550 above the bright lights of the LINQ Promenade, spend at least half an hour wandering about the area — with plenty of shops, eateries, bars and casinos to keep you busy.

• LINQ High Roller tickets

30 – Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Camera at the ready! No visit to Las Vegas is complete without a selfie (or two, or three) with your favorite celebrities.

Luckily for celeb-crushing visitors, Madame Tussauds has got you covered, with over 100 life-like wax figures of Hollywood icons and music stars (from Liberace to Elvis and Beyonce) from around the world. And if that’s not enough, there are also sections dedicated to historical figures and sports legends, as well as awesome themed areas Marvel Superheroes.

Besides being America’s inaugural Madame Tussauds location, most of the exhibits are highly interactive —  get on stage with Rock n Roll King Elvis Presley, or star in a music video alongside Drake! Make no mistake, this is far from your typical museum.

• Madame Tussauds Las Vegas tickets

31 – The Venetian

Blending ornate Italian architecture and romance with the debauchery and shenanigans of Las Vegas, The Venetian is one of the Strip’s most picturesque and popular resorts — if not for spending a night, at least for an hour or so of exploring.

From its Grand Canal Shoppes, complete with manmade waterways, Venice-style gondolas and singing gondolier tour guides , to its casino floor and luxury suites, The Venetian offers an enchanting and romantic alternative to the traditional gambling and hotel experience.

And if you’re looking for a break from the bustle, take in one of the Venetian’s awe-inspiring shows — whether you pop into the intimate Summit Showroom , spacious Venetian Theatre , or luxurious Palazzo Theatre world-class names in comedy and music are never too far away.

Wanna let your hair down? Grab a few drinks and hit the dancefloor at Tao, a premier Vegas nightclub .

32 – Resorts World Las Vegas

One of the newest additions to Sin City’s resorts scene, found at the quieter northern end of the Strip (close to the STRAT), Resorts World Las Vegas is a high-end, Asian-themed, 3500-room complex that’s perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main drag while still having direct access to all the entertainment, food, games, and activities you could ask for on a vacation .

From its giant gold lion entrance to its lush gardens and Koi ponds, Resorts World is all about opulence and excess — think pagodas, marble floors, hand-carved woodwork and intricate metalwork.

And if you’re feeling peckish after all that exploring, there are 40+ restaurants on offer (including several Michelin-starred establishments), as well as a casino floor with table games and more than 400 slot machines.

With over 5000 seats and a massive 196-feet-wide center stage, The Theatre at Resorts World has already welcomed superstars like Michael Buble, Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry and Celine Dion.

After catching a show, head straight to the internationally-renowned Zouk Nightclub to catch names like Zedd and Tiësto, and then nurse the hangover the next day at the largest pool complex on the Strip.

33 – Gold & Silver Pawn Shop

Made famous across the globe because of the History Channel’s ‘Pawn Stars’ series , the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop is a real-life treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Even if you’re not in the market for some of the thousands of items on offer (including coins, jewelry, watches, guns and even medieval armor), it’s still well worth a visit just to check out the jaw-dropping collection of one-of-a-kind pieces and quirky knickknacks .

And if you are feeling lucky (this is Vegas, after all), maybe take a shot at haggling with owner Rick Harrison or one of the reality TV star hosts-cross-shopkeepers!

Despite the fame, it’s free to visit (with free parking) and open 24/7.

34 – Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Offering a well-appreciated change of pace from the typical drinking and chaos, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a great place to take the kids or spend an afternoon learning about the history and ecology of the area .

Featuring exhibits on fascinating topics like the ocean (with real sharks and stingrays!), international wildlife, ancient Egypt, dinosaurs, and human evolution, as well as giant skeletons of prehistoric mammals, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained for hours on end .

And if you’re feeling famished after all that learning, the museum’s café offers healthy (and affordable) options like sandwiches, salads and wraps.

Check the calendar before you visit — regular events like public shark feedings happen twice a week, with Storytime on most Sundays to entertain the little ones.

• Las Vegas Natural History Museum tickets

35 – Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Craving the smell of burning rubber and the sound of revving engines? Then the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is just what the doctor ordered.

Home to NASCAR, IndyCar and NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) races throughout the year, as well as monster truck rallies, car shows and a whole lot more, there’s always something exciting happening at this petrolhead paradise.

But why stop at watching? For a truly unforgettable afternoon of motorsport, consider booking a few NASCAR hot laps riding shotgun , or, even more high-octane still, an exotic supercar driving experience! With options to cruise around in over 20 different supercar s (Porches, Lambos, Ferraris and more), it’s a dream come true for many.

• supercar driving in Las Vegas

Save money on attractions tickets: consider the Go Las Vegas Explorer Pass

For money- and time-conscious tourists, or any of you who don’t feel like organizing too many of your own activities (you’re on vacation, after all), the Las Vegas Explorer Pass has been specifically designed to make visitors’ lives easier .

Providing access to a wide range of Las Vegas’s most popular tours, activities, and sites (including a Grand Canyon tour), the Go Las Vegas Explorer Pass gives discounts to well over 30 must-see actions and quintessential excursions .

Simply choose for favorites, pick how many places you want to see, and control everything from the convenience of one simple app.

• Go Las Vegas Explorer Pass

Save hassle: book an airport transfer

Why should you care about little details when on vacation? Rather, leave the logistics to the professionals. Instead of worrying about bus connections or hailing a taxi at the airport, you can save time in transit and spend more time seeing and roaming Sin City , discovering all the sights.

Why do visitors book airport transfers in advance? With a pre-organized airport transfer, you can simply step off the plane, grab your bags, and be greeted by a chauffeur holding a sign with your name on it.

No need to worry about currency conversions, getting lost in an unfamiliar city, or trying to haggle with drivers — just sit back, enjoy the ride, and ask your friend driver about their favorite locales!

• Las Vegas airport transfers

Final thoughts:

Well, that’s all for now, folks! We hope you’ve enjoyed our look into the best tourist attractions in Las Vegas.

If you have any other must-see suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comments. Viva Las Vegas and, as always, happy and safe travels!

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3 Las Vegas Experiences That Deserve Way More Attention, And 3 That Can't Get Much More Overrated

Some of these places deserve wayyyyyy more attention. Others, I definitely could have passed on.

BuzzFeed Staff

Hey! I'm Chelsea, the weekend editor at BuzzFeed. Usually, I work remotely, but every once in a while, I get to trade my home office for an exciting work trip .

Recently, I traveled to Las Vegas courtesy of Flyover, a popular tourist attraction often compared to Disney's Soarin' ride. We also visited other local places, some that lived up to the hype and some that, well, didn't.

That said, here are three vegas hotspots that were severely underrated and three that were overrated, imho..

*BuzzFeed was invited on this trip free of charge but was under no obligation to give Flyover a positive review.

Underrated: Flyover

Honestly, I'd never heard of this experience until a rep reached out to invite me on the trip. If you're unfamiliar, it's an immersive virtual reality experience that simulates rides over popular destinations. The first location opened in 2013 in Vancouver, and now, there are locations in Minnesota, Chicago, and, as previously mentioned, Las Vegas, right on the Strip.

Currently, Flyover provides four journeys: Windborne: Call of the Canadian Rockies, Wonders of the American West, Legendary Iceland, and Believe Chicago. Each voyage begins with a pre-show film, detailing that destination's rich history and culture through vivid imagery, sounds, and narration.

Once the film is over, you're taken into another room and seated for takeoff. Before you know it, you're in the air and immersed in a sprawling screen that takes you over beautiful sights of your chosen journey — from the Northern Lights in Iceland and Chicago's bustling downtown scene to the Grand Canyon and the peaceful waters of Maligne Lake.

The best and most mind-blowing part of all is that, as you ride, you experience mists and smells unique to those areas, making it feel all the more real. I legit feel like I can now cross Iceland off my bucket list! 

With prices starting at just $36, I thought it was well worth the money. Not to mention, you can bundle and get the second ride for 50% off. Just keep in mind that they go at different speeds — Chicago felt like a rollercoaster at times, while Iceland was beautifully relaxing — if you're someone who's prone to motion sickness like me.

After your ride, head to the gift shop or The Lost Cactus bar for signature drinks inspired by the places you traveled. I had the prickly pear margarita, which was *chef's kiss.* But there are also mocktails and snacks, too, making it a fun experience for all.

Overrated: Atomic Saloon Show

When I first saw the 18+ age requirement for the show, I knew it would be raunchy, yet I still wasn't prepared for what it entailed. 

Hosted by the chronically horny Madam Boozy Skunkton, Atomic Saloon Show is a very wild west comedy circus  event that explores "the true depths of Sin City, mixing flexible morals with reality-shifting acrobatics." Saints and sinners are welcome.

For 75 minutes, guests experience high-energy performances by flow artists, pole dancers, trapeze artists, and table drummers (yes, this is exactly what it sounds like — people drumming on tables). There are also incredibly racy jokes, all woven into a weary love story involving the domineering Madam Boozy and two besotted employees.

Don't get me wrong — I did laugh during the show, hysterically at times. But there were also many moments when the comedy felt forced and needlessly vulgar when the scene was already hilarious.

Some of the pros are the hospitality, the intimate atmosphere, the crowd work, and the venue's Instagrammable bar (that is, when you can finally find where the show is located inside the massive Venetian hotel). I just can't justify spending $100 on this experience.

Underrated: Momofuku

Bon Appétit called this place "the most important restaurant in America," and honestly, I can see why. 

Founded by Michelin-award-winning restaurateur David Chang, it's a truly exceptional experience from start to finish. The interior is warm and inviting, the staff is kind and attentive, and the food is absolutely incredible.

The restaurant serves Asian American fare with a twist and is elegantly designed with gorgeous art, cozy lighting, and sleek metallic accents — yet still feels relaxed. They also play a fusion of pop and hip-hop classics while you dine, the type that you maybe haven't heard in a while but appreciate every time.

To get started, our group of six ordered a salad, oysters, and spicy cucumbers. Then, we got tuna, corn ribs, pork belly buns, Iberico pork, and the Wagyu ribeye. We figured we'd just sample everything because it was too hard to choose individual dishes — everything sounded soo good! 

The food didn't disappoint, either. It was fresh and flavorful and genuinely got better with each dish. I also really liked the drinks! I had a little champagne, gifted to us by the manager, and a refreshing passion fruit spritz.

As of writing, Momofuku has just over a four-star rating on Google, which honestly surprised me given our experience! I'd easily give this place five stars.

Overrated: Superfrico

I imagine Superfrico got its name because it's just soooo freaky — in a good way! Located inside the Cosmopolitan hotel, it's an Italian-American psychedelic restaurant that doubles as a house party.

Once you're inside the big purple doors, you'll see the restaurant has an artsy design with fun neon lighting. It boasts all original artwork, exclusively owned by Superfrico, including a quirky octopus made entirely from dollar bills and a self-serve tarot machine to get your fortune.

The menu features equally eccentric drink options, including cereal milk punch, SpaghettiO cocktails, and pepperoni pizza drinks (a favorite among our group). The food encompasses pizza, pasta, seafood, and steak.

I decided on a salad for the appetizer, chicken parmesan for the main course, and a black and blue shortcake with lemon curd, whipped vanilla cream, and basil for dessert. I also got the peanut butter espresso martini to drink — it was so rich and yummy! Usually, I like to sip my drinks slowly, but NGL, I pretty much downed that one lol. I was also really impressed with the pace of service and the creativity with which these dishes were made. Unfortunately, the taste was just underwhelming to me.

The best part — and what Superfrico is known for — was all of the zany performances that happen while you eat. They truly match the restaurant's freak. There was one opera singer who fell in "love" at first sight with someone from our group and hilariously serenaded them in song. There are also characters who walk around in comical costumes for your entertainment, including a Domino's Pizza delivery driver who can't seem to find his stop.

Overall, Superfrico was a fun experience, but I probably wouldn't return because of the price and food quality. It's clear you pay for the experience here, but in the end, I just didn't find it worth it.

I might recommend eating beforehand and just going for drinks instead if you're thinking of visiting.

Underrated: The Mob Museum

Yes, I've seen movies like Casino . Still, I never knew or fully understood the mob's deep connection to Vegas and other parts of the country until visiting the Mob Museum. 

Located downtown in a former post office/courthouse (which famously housed a  Kefauver hearing ), the museum explores the mob's history and effect on America. 

The third floor examines their origins with exhibits like a mugshot room, Al Capone's "Sweetheart" pistol, and the bullet-ridden wall from the St. Valentine's Day Massacre.

The second floor focuses on their rise, showcasing the methods used to grow their illegal businesses and their rapid spread throughout the country.

But you shouldn't think the museum glorifies them. Down on the first floor, guests learn about the mob's downfall, the tragedy that befell many members, and the harm they often brought to innocent victims.

If none of that interests you, you might enjoy another exhibit on the first floor, "The Mob in Pop Culture," which features items from shows like  Breaking Bad   and  Narcos .

After that, head down to the speakeasy in the basement. It's inspired by Prohibition-era life and on select weekend nights, you can even hear live jazz. Just make sure you know the password to get in the door.

Overrated: The Strip

Okay, hear me out! Vegas does have a lot to offer overall — from live shows and quality food choices to perfect weather and casinos. The Strip is nice in that it bolsters a variety of venues in one place, but everything there just feels SO expensive and over-commercialized, lessening the experience.

Fremont Street in downtown Vegas was a lot more entertaining. I'd heard people say it had a more fun and organic vibe, and after visiting it myself, I totally agree! 

We got to see live singers, showgirls, and street dancers (including two people from  America's Got Talent !). The food and shopping options also seemed to be a lot more affordable — like, I could find items for half of the price, if not less, than what I would pay for them on the Strip. 

It was also amazing to see all the old buildings! The architecture and bright lights were absolutely beautiful — even at midday.

If you have it to spend, feel free to ball out on the Strip, but I found my money went so much further on Fremont Street without sacrificing quality.

Have you tried any of these experiences? What did you think? Have any other overrated and underrated places in Las Vegas to share? Add them in the comments below.

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12 Unforgettable Fall Getaways From Las Vegas

Often hailed as “The Entertainment Capital of the World,” it might be hard to ever imagine leaving Las Vegas to seek adventures elsewhere. But for everyone who spends a lot of time in Las Vegas, it’s easy to catch that urge to head out and experience all the natural wonders nearby. While Southern Nevada is best known for its location within the Mojave Desert , this region has far more diverse and beautiful landscapes than what one would expect for the driest corner of North America.

In fact, within a three-hour drive of the Las Vegas Strip , travelers can explore everything from towering mountains and lush verdant forests to scenic sandstone canyons and lovely river views. Even better, the cooler fall weather makes it much more comfortable to experience more of these places that tend to get very hot and/or crowded during the summer season. With all this said, here are 12 unforgettable fall getaways from Las Vegas that are less than a three-hour drive away.

Grand Canyon West

The Grand Canyon truly is one of the world’s grandest natural wonders, and Grand Canyon West offers a vibrant new perspective on Arizona ’s most famous natural landmark. Located on Hualapai tribal land (about 129 miles east of Las Vegas ), Grand Canyon West offers a uniquely immersive experience where visitors can learn more about the indigenous communities who have run this tribal reservation since 1883. At Eagle Point, walk the famous glass-bottom Grand Canyon Skywalk that extends 70 feet over the canyon rim. While here, watch one of the indigenous cultural shows that happen every weekend and take a tour of the Native American Village that features authentic housing and sweat lodges.

While here, take advantage of the cooler autumn days and enjoy outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting in the Colorado River , and helicopter tours that lead all the way down to the canyon floor. At Hualapai Point, Grand Canyon West even has a zipline that extends for some 3,200 feet, soars 500 feet above a side canyon, and runs as fast as 40 miles per hour! For a longer stay, Grand Canyon West offers cabins and hotel rooms, as well as RV parking near the Skywalk.

As the largest city in Southern Utah , St. George offers a nice blend of comfortable urban amenities, unique small-town charm, and phenomenal natural scenery all around. Though St. George is only about 125 miles northeast of Las Vegas, the lack of casino gaming and the abundance of local and regional parks make St. George feel a world away. During the autumn months, the mild weather makes for ideal hiking and biking conditions at the beautiful sandstone red rock trails of Snow Canyon State Park. Closer to downtown, Pioneer Park is another great spot to enjoy some 52 acres of rustic land with trails leading to slot canyons, the Pioneer Cabin, the iconic Dixie Rock, and panoramic views of the region.

Meanwhile, Downtown St. George operates as the historic heart and soul of Southern Utah: The St. George Temple is the LDS Church’s longest operating temple and first temple built in Utah (in 1877), while the Brigham Young Winter Home is where the Church’s President lived and worked from 1870 to 1877. All around St. George, travelers can find a variety of inviting lodging options, from the cozy Mulberry Inn bed-and-breakfast and the chic Advenire boutique hotel downtown to the beautiful Inn at Entrada located inside the private Entrada community. (The Inn at Entrada is especially great for anyone looking to golf at the newly renovated Entrada Snow Canyon championship golf course!)

Zion National Park

Located around 164 miles northeast of Las Vegas (and 42 miles east of St. George), Zion National Park may really be the crown jewel of Utah’s public lands. Enter the park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center near Springdale and embark on epic hiking expeditions like the ethereal journey to Angels Landing, the famed sandstone rock formation where Methodist minister Frederick Vining Fisher claimed in 1916 that only angels could land there. Another incredible hiking journey is one to The Narrows or a very narrow gorge where the Virgin River flows between rock walls soaring as high as 1,000 feet above the canyon floor. (Note that permits are required to hike Angels Landing and that The Narrows’ availability heavily depends on the weather.)

Even if you can’t commit to the more advanced hiking options at Angels Landing and The Narrows, there’s still plenty of incredible scenery to enjoy throughout Zion National Park, especially during autumn. In particular, the Pa’Rus Trail near the visitor center and Emerald Pools Trail near the lodge are prime spots to catch some incredibly colorful fall foliage that looks even more vibrant against the backdrop of Zion’s red rock formations and electric blue sky. Speaking of the lodge, it is the only hotel located inside the park, and it’s equipped with 76 standard rooms, six suites, 40 historic cabins, and the park’s only restaurants. Try to book your stay at the Zion Lodge as far in advance as possible, or else you will probably need to book a hotel in the town of Springdale.

For world-class autumn leaf-peeping within (relatively) easy reach of Las Vegas, Cedar City is the place to be. Only 175 miles to the northeast along a mostly straight shoot up the I-15 freeway, Cedar City sits over a mile (more specifically, 5,847 feet) above sea level, where Southern Utah’s iconic red rock landscapes blend into thickly forested mountains. From Cedar City, take Highway 14 east to Cedar Breaks National Monument to discover incredible views of the natural limestone amphitheater that spans for some three miles and drops some 2,500 feet below. For perhaps the best fall colors, take Highway 148 and Highway 143 north to Brian Head and Parowan to find maple and oak forests that sport the finest orange and golden hues during autumn.

After a long day of exploring the backcountry, return to Cedar City and enjoy a casual stroll through the historic downtown. From charming local art galleries and colorful murals to tasty restaurants, a farmers’ market (on Saturdays), and even the IG Winery, Cedar City has plenty of cool options for kicking back and enjoying the unique mountain town vibes. When it comes to overnight stays, Cedar City has several hotels and motels in town, along with vacation rental units and even some RV parks.

Boulder City and the Hoover Dam

As the days shorten and the weather cools, Boulder City becomes a much more inviting escape from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip that’s only 25 miles away. Originally established in 1930 to house the workers building the Hoover Dam, Boulder City stands out from the rest of Southern Nevada in that there are no casinos here. The heart of the city still looks and feels like a small town with its wide assortment of local boutiques and restaurants, and the Nevada State Railroad Museum offers glimpses into life in the early days of Boulder City and during the golden age of locomotive transportation.

Of course, no day trip to Boulder City feels complete without a trip to the Hoover Dam itself! About eight miles east of Downtown Boulder City, Hoover Dam has functioned to form Lake Mead , store water, control floods, and generate hydroelectric power since 1936. Now, it’s also the perfect spot for visitors to catch stunning views of the Colorado River and the golden desert landscapes that stretch across two states ( Nevada and Arizona). If you feel like extending your stay in Boulder City, the historic Boulder Dam Hotel has welcomed guests since 1933, and it continues to offer timeless hospitality with its stately rooms and tasty on-site restaurants.

Red Rock Canyon

This may be the shortest distance from the Las Vegas Strip (about 19 miles west), yet Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers much of Southern Nevada’s most dramatically colorful natural scenery. Year-round, Red Rock Canyon features about 31 miles of trails, a 13-mile-long scenic road to bike or drive, and plenty of mesmerizing views of the park’s namesake 180 million-year-old Aztec Sandstone rock formations. But during autumn, Red Rock becomes one of Vegas’ best places to enjoy lovely views of oak and ash trees and their leaves sporting bright shades of gold and orange. In particular, Ash Springs at Calico Basin and Oak Creek Canyon are great for fall leaf-peeping.

While Red Rock Canyon’s Scenic Drive is open every day, timed entry reservations are required from October through May. The park also has a visitor center full of interpretive exhibits that let you learn more about the desert environment, along with a staffed reception desk that can answer any questions and a gift shop featuring cool keepsakes. To learn even more about the area’s fascinating Old West history, head to the nearby Spring Mountain Ranch State Park and explore a working ranch with a fascinating Hollywood backstory that’s operated here since the 1860s.

Mount Charleston

Soaring some 11,917 feet above sea level, Mount Charleston is Southern Nevada’s tallest mountain peak, and the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area where Mount Charleston lies (about 41 miles northwest of the Las Vegas Strip) makes for an invigorating alpine escape high above the Mojave Desert floor. Thanks to their high elevation (around 7,500 to 8,660 feet above sea level), fall foliage can appear in areas like Kyle Canyon and Lee Canyon as early as August, and peak fall foliage often occurs around late September and early October. Kyle and Lee Canyons offer multiple hiking trails, including the Upper Bristlecone Trail (at Lee Canyon), with aspen groves that are especially worth visiting during autumn.

Due to the high elevation, snow can start falling at Mount Charleston as early as October. Lee Canyon offers everything from chairlift rides and designated mountain bike trails to restaurants and a fully stocked sports shop, as well as skiing and snowboarding once the winter season begins (usually in December). For overnight stays, head over to the Mt. Charleston Lodge at Kyle Canyon to book a cabin, enjoy mountain-style meals at the on-site restaurant, and take in all the wondrous views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Gold Butte National Monument

Spanning nearly 300,000 acres of rugged public lands about 113 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Gold Butte National Monument still appears to be one of the Desert Southwest ’s best-kept secrets. Since Gold Butte still has few amenities on site, this can be a tough park to visit during the scorching summer months. Yet once the weather starts to cool down in fall, visitors have an easier time navigating the Gold Butte Back Country Byway to reach the Whitney Pockets, a colorful collection of sandstone formations shaped by thousands of years’ worth of water and wind erosion .

From the Whitney Pockets, embark on the ultimate adventure to the ghost town of Gold Butte that opened as a mining outpost in 1908, marvel at the park’s array of petroglyphs and rock art, and make your way to Little Finland for sandstone landscapes that feel otherworldly. While camping is available at designated sites like Cabin Canyon and the Whitney Pockets, keep in mind that camping is very primitive here, and cell service is limited at best. For more creature comforts, head to the nearby town of Mesquite to stay at full-service hotels like the Eureka Casino Resort.

Death Valley National Park

With a name like Death Valley , this park might seem especially frightening to visit during the summer months, when temperatures often surge past 110° Fahrenheit on the desert floor. But once temperatures start to cool to less unbearably hot levels during the fall season, a Death Valley road trip (about 118 miles northwest of Las Vegas) becomes a much more inviting affair. By car, it’s possible to drive to North America’s lowest point (282 feet below sea level) at Badwater Basin, the surreal array of colors (ranging from red and pink to green and blue) at the volcanic deposits at Artists Palette, and the stark desert and mountain views at Zabriskie Point.

By November, it’s safer and more comfortable to hike trails at areas like the Badwater Salt Flats, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Willow Canyon (which has a refreshing seasonal waterfall). For ambitious bikers, roads like Salt Creek Road, Hole-in-the-Wall Road, and Artist’s Drive are great for riding. For longer excursions, Furnace Creek Campground has multiple amenities and 18 RV parking slots with full hookups, while The Oasis at Death Valley underwent a recent renovation and now offers a lovely collection of rooms, suites, casitas, and pool bungalows.

Mojave National Preserve

Across the California state line and about 89 miles south of Las Vegas, Mojave National Preserve is perfect for a chill, quiet Mojave Desert getaway. As is the case with the region’s other major parks, the cooler autumn weather makes this unique expanse of the natural desert environment a much more pleasant place to explore. Head to Kelso Dunes to discover sand dunes reaching up to 600 feet high and native animal species that you won’t find anywhere else. Hit the Teutonia Peak Trail to hike the world’s largest Joshua Tree forest. And though this park doesn’t have any designated bike paths, it nonetheless has an abundance of paved and dirt roads that are great for biking.

If you’d like to stay in the park, Mojave National Preserve has the Hole-in-the-Wall and Mid Hills Campgrounds that accommodate tents and RVs. For lodging options with more creature comforts, hop across the Nevada state line for a collection of three full-service casino hotels in Primm. If you just need some food, a few souvenirs, and a chance to stretch your legs before hitting the road again, go to Baker to catch a glimpse of the “World’s Tallest Thermometer” and grab some astoundingly tasty Greek fare at The Mad Greek.

About 96 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Laughlin has often felt stuck in Vegas’ shadow with its smaller stretch of casino hotels along Casino Drive near the Colorado River. But for those who find the Las Vegas Strip to be a dizzying cacophony of sensory overload, Laughlin’s Casino Drive can be a much more relaxing experience with its more laid-back casino floors. Outside the casinos, the fall weather provides ideal conditions for paddle boating, scenic cruises, jet skiing, and even fishing on the Colorado River. Back on dry land, the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park makes a great launchpad for easy walks and cool hikes sporting lovely river views.

With the cooler autumn weather comes prime opportunities for perfect days at the links. Mojave Resort Golf Club offers a championship course that’s welcoming for golfers at all skill levels, and similarly inviting golf courses like Laughlin Ranch Golf Club, El Rio Golf, and Huukan Golf Club can be found right across the river (and the Arizona state line). Since Laughlin is a major casino gaming destination, hotels and resorts abound: The Golden Nugget, Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort, and Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort are likely your best bets.

Lake Havasu

Though Lake Havasu may be better known for its freewheeling spring break season, fall is another prime time to visit this scenic oasis at the Colorado River. As the weather cools down, the action picks up at the water. Cruising Tikis Havasu offers floating tiki bars that serve cool cocktails on the refreshing waters of the Colorado River, plus Havasu has plenty more options for boating and cruising. In addition, Havasu’s shores are great to kick off kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding adventures on the open water. And yes, Lake Havasu really does have the original London Bridge that was built in the U.K. in the 1830s, then moved here in 1971.

Beyond the river, Lake Havasu has plenty more to do on dry land. Golfers can especially rejoice in the region’s wealth of championship-level greens, including the Bridgewater Links Golf Course, sporting charming views of the London Bridge, and the Iron Wolf Golf and Country Club, featuring real Augusta white sand, new water accents, and lovely mountain views. For accommodations, visitors have a wide array of options: Camping is available at Lake Havasu and Cattail Cove State Parks, while The Nautical Beach Resort and London Bridge Resort have plenty of bells and whistles that make for a relaxing stay.

From towering mountains and forests overflowing with fall foliage at places like Cedar City at Mount Charleston to gorgeous sandstone vistas at Red Rock Canyon and Gold Butte, Las Vegas locals, and visitors have a wonderful array of options for unforgettable fall getaways. Whether you prefer warm and relaxing days at the golf course in Lake Havasu or you want thrilling hikes and bikes through the stunning desert wilderness at Death Valley, there is so much to see, do, and experience within a three-hour drive of Vegas. Even if you’re only up for a short day trip, it’s surprisingly easy to escape to a whole new environment and gain a whole new perspective on this special stretch of the Southwest.

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