Looking for the best things to do in Las Vegas? Look no further than our guide to the top 23 activities and attractions in Sin City.
Welcome to Las Vegas, the city of lights, glamour, and endless entertainment. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant desert oasis. From world-famous casinos and luxury resorts to iconic landmarks and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Sin City.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the 23 best things to do in Las Vegas. So, grab your sunglasses, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the top attractions and activities that make Las Vegas one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
The 23 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas
1. Explore the Strip
No visit to Las Vegas would be complete without a stroll down the famous Las Vegas Strip. Stretching 4.2 miles, this iconic boulevard is home to some of the world’s most famous casinos, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues. Here are some of the must-see attractions along the Strip:
- The Bellagio Fountains: This stunning water and light show is a must-see attraction that takes place every 15 minutes from 8 pm to midnight.
- The High Roller: This 550-foot tall Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the Strip and the surrounding desert.
- The Mirage: Check out the erupting volcano outside The Mirage, which puts on a fiery show every night.
2. Visit the Hoover Dam
Just a short drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that’s been attracting visitors for decades. Built-in the 1930s, this massive concrete structure is a testament to American ingenuity and hard work. Here are some of the top things to see and do at the Hoover Dam:
- Take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and construction.
- Check out the visitor center, which features exhibits about the dam’s impact on the surrounding area.
- Take a walk across the top of the dam and marvel at the stunning views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
3. Experience the Grand Canyon
Located just a few hours’ drive from Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Whether you choose to explore the South Rim or the West Rim, there are plenty of ways to experience the beauty of this magnificent canyon. Here are some of the top activities and attractions at the Grand Canyon:
- Take a helicopter or airplane tour of the canyon for a bird’s eye view of its majestic beauty.
- Hike along one of the many trails that offer stunning views of the canyon’s unique geological features.
- Take a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River for an unforgettable adventure.
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4. Enjoy a Show
Las Vegas is known for its world-class entertainment, with shows ranging from the iconic Cirque du Soleil to comedy acts, concerts, and Broadway-style productions. Here are some of the top shows you won’t want to miss:
- O by Cirque du Soleil: This aquatic-themed show at the Bellagio features acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and divers performing stunning feats in and above a giant pool.
- Absinthe: This adults-only show at Caesar’s Palace combines comedy, acrobatics, and burlesque for a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Penn & Teller: This legendary magic duo has been entertaining audiences in Las Vegas for decades with their mind-boggling illusions and comedic banter.
- Le Rêve: This water-themed show at the Wynn features acrobats, dancers, and synchronized swimmers performing breathtaking stunts and aerial acts.
5. Gamble at a Casino
Las Vegas is known as the gambling capital of the world, with over 100 casinos offering a variety of games and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone at the casinos in Las Vegas. Here are some of the top casinos you should check out:
- Bellagio: This luxury hotel and casino is famous for its elegant décor, world-class restaurants, and high-stakes poker and blackjack tables.
- Caesars Palace: This iconic casino features Roman-inspired architecture, a massive sports book, and a variety of slot machines and table games.
- The Venetian: This Italian-themed resort and casino offers a unique gambling experience with gondola rides, a replica of St. Mark’s Square, and high-end shops and restaurants.
6. Explore Downtown Las Vegas
While the Strip gets most of the attention, downtown Las Vegas has its own unique charm and attractions. From historic landmarks to trendy restaurants and bars, there’s plenty to discover in this bustling part of the city. Here are some of the top things to see and do in downtown Las Vegas:
- The Neon Museum: This outdoor museum showcases the iconic neon signs that once lit up the city’s casinos and hotels.
- Fremont Street Experience: This pedestrian mall features a canopy of LED lights, live music, street performers, and a zip line that takes you high above the crowds.
- Container Park: This outdoor shopping and dining center features unique stores, art installations, and a giant praying mantis sculpture that shoots flames.
7. Visit the Mob Museum
Las Vegas has a rich history of organized crime and the Mob Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s past. Located in the former federal courthouse, the museum features interactive exhibits and artifacts related to organized crime and law enforcement. Here are some of the top exhibits you should check out:
- The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre: This exhibit showcases the infamous gangland murder that took place in Chicago in 1929.
- The Underground: This speakeasy-style exhibit takes you back to the Prohibition era with a fully-stocked bar and interactive exhibits about bootlegging and speakeasies.
- The Courtroom: This restored courtroom is where some of the most famous mob trials took place, including those of Al Capone and Sam Giancana.
8. Go Shopping
Las Vegas is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of malls, boutiques, and shops offering everything from designer clothing to unique souvenirs. Here are some of the top shopping destinations you should visit:
- The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace: This high-end shopping center features over 160 stores, including luxury brands like Gucci, Versace, and Louis Vuitton.
- Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood: This indoor shopping mall features over 170 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Downtown Summerlin: This outdoor shopping center features over 125 stores, restaurants, and a movie theater, as well as a variety of events and activities throughout the year.
9. See the Wildlife
Las Vegas may be located in the middle of the desert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see some amazing wildlife while you’re here. From sharks to exotic birds, here are some of the top places to see wildlife in Las Vegas:
- Shark Reef Aquarium: Located at Mandalay Bay, this aquarium features over 2,000 animals, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
- Flamingo Wildlife Habitat: This outdoor oasis at the Flamingo Hotel is home to a variety of exotic birds, including Chilean flamingos, swans, and pelicans.
- Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat: This attraction at the Mirage features a variety of exotic animals, including white tigers, lions, and dolphins.
10. Experience the Nightlife~
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, with countless bars, nightclubs, and lounges offering drinks, music, and entertainment. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
- Omnia: Located at Caesars Palace, this massive nightclub features multiple levels and a rotating cast of world-renowned DJs.
- The Chandelier: This three-story bar at the Cosmopolitan is known for its glamorous décor and creative cocktails.
- The Peppermill Lounge: This iconic Las Vegas bar has been around since the 1970s and is famous for its over-the-top drinks and kitschy atmosphere.
11. See a Show
Las Vegas is home to some of the best shows in the world, from magic acts to musical performances and everything in between. Here are some of the top shows you should see:
- Cirque du Soleil: This world-famous circus troupe has multiple shows in Las Vegas, including Mystère, O, and Zumanity.
- Blue Man Group: This unique performance group combines music, comedy, and multimedia for an unforgettable show at the Luxor.
- Absinthe: This raunchy, adults-only show at Caesars Palace features acrobatics, comedy, and a healthy dose of irreverence.
12. Go on a Food Tour
Las Vegas is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from high-end cuisine to casual comfort food. If you want to sample some of the best food the city has to offer, consider taking a food tour. Here are some of the top options:
- Lip Smacking Foodie Tours: This company offers a variety of tours, including a tour of the Strip’s best restaurants and a downtown food tour that highlights the city’s burgeoning culinary scene.
- Taste Buzz Food Tours: This company offers tours that focus on specific neighborhoods or types of cuisine, such as a Chinatown food tour or a tour of the city’s best pizza spots.
- Vegas Valley Food Tours: This company offers tours that highlight the best restaurants in different parts of the city, including downtown and the Summerlin area.
13. Explore the Arts District
Located just south of downtown Las Vegas, the Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, studios, and boutiques. Here are some of the top things to do in this creative hub:
- First Friday: On the first Friday of every month, the Arts District comes alive with an arts and culture festival featuring live music, food trucks, and open galleries.
- Antique Alley: This stretch of Main Street is lined with antique shops, vintage boutiques, and other unique stores.
- Art Walk: Held every second Saturday of the month, this event features live music, food trucks, and open galleries in the heart of the Arts District.
14. Visit the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a unique attraction that showcases some of Las Vegas’s most iconic neon signs from the city’s past. Here are some of the top things to see at the museum:
- The Neon Boneyard: This outdoor exhibit features over 200 retired neon signs from casinos, hotels, and other businesses from the 1930s to the present day.
- Brilliant!: This light and sound show uses the museum’s restored signs to create a dazzling visual spectacle.
- The North Gallery: This indoor exhibit features smaller, restored signs and interactive exhibits that explore the history and art of neon.
15. Play Golf
Las Vegas is home to some of the best golf courses in the world, with courses designed by top golfers like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Here are some of the top courses to play:
- Shadow Creek: This exclusive course is located just north of the Strip and is known for its stunning scenery and challenging design.
- TPC Las Vegas: This course is home to the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, and features stunning views of the Red Rock Canyon.
- Cascata: Located just outside of Las Vegas in Boulder City, this course features stunning waterfalls and a challenging layout.
16. Take a Stroll through the Botanical Gardens
The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are a must-see attraction on the Strip, featuring stunning floral displays that change with the seasons. Here are some of the top things to see at the gardens:
- Seasonal Displays: From cherry blossoms in the spring to a winter wonderland during the holidays, the Bellagio Conservatory offers stunning displays throughout the year.
- Butterfly Habitat: The gardens feature a live butterfly exhibit where visitors can see these beautiful insects up close.
- Giant Talking Tree: This interactive exhibit features a talking tree that greets visitors and shares fun facts about the gardens.
17. Take a Helicopter Tour
For a unique and unforgettable view of Las Vegas, consider taking a helicopter tour of the city and surrounding area. Here are some of the top tour companies to consider:
- Maverick Helicopters: This company offers a variety of tours, including a nighttime flight over the Strip and a tour that includes a champagne picnic in the Grand Canyon.
- Papillon Helicopters: This company offers a range of tours, including flights over the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, and a tour that includes a landing and tour of the Colorado River.
- Sundance Helicopters: This company offers a variety of tours, including a sunset flight over the Strip and a tour that includes a landing and champagne toast in the Valley of Fire.
Conclusion
Las Vegas is a city that truly has something for everyone, from world-class entertainment and dining to outdoor adventures and historic attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, be sure to check out these 23 best things to do in Las Vegas to make the most of your trip.
FAQs
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What is the best time of year to visit Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, and winter can be a great time to visit for holiday events and cooler weather.
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Can you visit the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas?
Yes, the Hoover Dam is located just a short drive from Las Vegas and is a popular day trip for visitors.
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What is the dress code for Las Vegas shows and nightclubs?
The dress code for Las Vegas shows and nightclubs vary depending on the venue. Some nightclubs have strict dress codes that prohibit sneakers, hats, and shorts, while others are more casual. It’s best to check with the specific venue before you go.
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Are there any free attractions in Las Vegas?
Yes, there are several free attractions in Las Vegas, including the Fountains of Bellagio, the Volcano at The Mirage, and the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo.
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Is Las Vegas family-friendly?
While Las Vegas is known for its adult entertainment and nightlife, there are also plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities, such as the Adventuredome at Circus Circus, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the High Roller Observation Wheel.