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The glittering city holds numerous activities, entertainment venues, and points of interest, but there are also plenty of complimentary things to do in Las Vegas.
For myself, observing the sunrise above the ocean close to Mount Agung (the highest volcanic mountain in Bali) from the height of Mount Batur was one of the best escorted visits in Bali and undeniably one of the fundamental activities in Bali that I’ll never forget.
The initial occasion we toured this city was during our 10-day excursion along the West Coast. We were intent on judiciously allocating finances for the complete trip, so we sought reasonably priced activities in Las Vegas.
Well, I’m pleased to tell you that there are plenty of fun things you can do around here without spending a significant amount of money. While there are many free places and activities in Las Vegas, if you’re traveling on a limited budget you may want to check out the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass (the best CityPass in Las Vegas), which covers more than 45 attractions, so you can make the most of your time and available funds.
Now, here are the 15 best free things to do in Las Vegas!
Table of Contents
1. Take a photo at the Fabulous Las Vegas sign on the Strip
Your trip to Las Vegasbegins with a visit to the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas landmark. This iconic sign has been greeting visitors since 1959, so it’s one of the top complimentary areas to explore in Las Vegas.
The sign stands at the southern terminus of the Strip and towers over 8 meters tall. It’s one of the most photographed locations in the city, so a snapshot must be taken. Not only is it one of the premier free activities in Las Vegas, but a photographic souvenir will commemorate your trip.
2. Enjoy the Fountains at Bellagio show, the best free thing to do in Las Vegas
The Bellagiois counted among the most luxurious and well-known Vegas resorts. One of its most famous attractions additionally makes for a fun free thing to participate in in Las Vegas.
The Bellagio Fountains feature over 1,200 sprinklers, sprayers, and water jets that put on an amazing free presentation in Las Vegas. The water show incorporates unique lighting, choreographed movements, and music, with performances every 30 minutes during afternoon hours (ramping up to every 15 minutes after 8 pm). It`s one of the primary attractions highlighted in our guide to the best evening activities in Las Vegas.
This Las Vegas resort features an outstanding Conservatory and Botanical Garden that is an excellent free activity for families in the area. Visitors can marvel at the Fiori di Como glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly upon entering.
3. Fremont Street Experience, one of the top free things to do in Las Vegas
For the best no-cost activities in Las Vegas, check out the Fremont Street Experience. Found within the city’s historic core, Fremont Street is quite an ordeal itself. Every evening, you can witness a presentation or concert here, and it’s generally complimentary. If anything, it’ll be an affordable thing to do in Las Vegas and a pleasant way to mingle with the locals.
As we discuss in our guide to the top activities in downtown Las Vegas, the Fremont Street Experience has something suitable for all. In addition to live performances and musicians, visitors can see the Viva Vision Light Display, which comprises over 12 million LED lights accompanied by sound.
If you have some extra funds, you can take a ride on the SlotZillla zip line or go shopping at the pedestrian mall. I also enjoy this Fremont Street walking tour, which takes you to the most legendary spots in the area.
Without question, Fremont Street is considered the prime location to visit in Las Vegas for entertaining attractions available at no cost, and it remains open throughout the day and night.
4. Walk the LINQ Promenade, a free attraction in Las Vegas
Without a doubt, the LINQ Promenade is one of the first free places to go in Las Vegas. This pedestrian promenade is in the center of the Strip, so it’s a haven for entertainment, nourishment, and leisure activities.
While the Promenade itself is a complimentary attraction in Las Vegas, entrance must be paid to experience several of the planned activities found here. It`s worthwhile nevertheless, as something can be discovered to suit everyone at the LINQ.
One of the most thrilling activities is riding the High Roller, the largest Ferris wheel globally. Standing 550 feet tall, it provides the most spectacular panoramic views of the Strip, particularly at nightfall. You can obtain a skip-the-line entrance here. The LINQ also houses the Brooklyn Bowl, an expansive bowling alley and live music destination.
Even if you simply wander through, the Promenade is near many hotels along the Strip, so strolling through is a nice free activity available in Las Vegas.
5. Browse the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian
If you’re seeking , inspect the Grand Canal Shoppes at .
While this high-end shopping center houses some of the most luxurious stores in the city, it remains a complimentary attraction in Las Vegas. Visitors can stop by while waiting for an upcoming show or with a couple hours of leisure time during the day.
Here, you can window shop or people-watch as couples glide down the artificial canal in a gondola. The shopping center is also where you can find Streetmosphere, a complimentary show with elaborately-costumed performers.
While visiting The Venetian, be certain to pause at the Palazzo Waterfall Atrium and Gardens, which alters decorations per season. In the Palazzo lobby, you`ll also see the Aqua di Cristallo water sculpture, another gratis must-see in Las Vegas.
6. Find a bargain in the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop
If you’re a devotee of the TV show Pawn Stars, then visiting the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop is a must. It`s a popular attraction usually very crowded, but entering if possible, it`s one of the most intriguing places to see in Las Vegas for free.
Here, you can find all kinds of intriguing knickknacks, furniture, games, jewelry, collectibles, and more. The shop is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm, and the Pawn Stars guys occasionally make an appearance on the shop floor.
Dedicated fans of the hit TV series may want to book this half-day exclusive tour allowing a behind-the-scenes look at multiple stores where unusual inventory items are obtained. There`s a chance to meet cast members too, pending availability.
7. The Mirage Volcano, one of the most popular free shows in Las Vegas
The Mirageis another popular Vegas destination, especially renowned for its volcanic eruption light display. This is a very enjoyable activity in Las Vegas suitable for children, as the performance is specially coordinated to music, lighting, steam, and even piña colada aroma. The display occurs each night at 8 pm, 9 pm, and 10 pm.
While the Mirage volcano is a free must-see in Las Vegas, that’s not all that the resort offers. It has other things to do in Las Vegas on a budget, such as the Cirque du Solei show, LOVE, which is based on the story of the Beatles.
Another delightful aspect of The Mirage is the atrium`s rainforest filled with palm trees, lagoons, orchids, and additional tropical flora and fauna. A popular dolphin habitat is also present, although visits are discouraged. The hotel has plenty of other gorgeous places available for free exploration in Las Vegas.
8. Caesars Palace, another free place to go in Las Vegas
Among the most prominent casino hotels in Las Vegas is Caesars Palace, which also has one of the best free shows in Las Vegas.
The presentation entitled `The Fall of Atlantis` is part of the program offerings at the Forum Shops situated within the hotel and recounts the narrative of the sunken city of Atlantis. It represents one of the premier cost-free activities in Las Vegas that can be enjoyed with family, as kids of varying ages will be engaged by watching the animated figures and special visual effects.
Concerning the Forum Shops, taking a stroll through this shopping center is one of the best free activities to do on the Las Vegas Strip. It has over 150 stores, so it’s perfect for window browsing. Furthermore, if you’re searching for one of the top locations to stay in Las Vegas, Caesars Palace is one of the most immaculate and comfortable.
9. Visit New York-New York Hotel, another fun thing to do in Las Vegas for free
While you may not be able to physically visit the Big Apple when in Las Vegas, the New York-New York Hotel gives guests the opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of New York City without leaving the Las Vegas Strip. This unique resort offers an array of engaging activities located along the famous boulevard to keep visitors entertained.
This resort replicates the iconic New York City skyline through miniature representations, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Chrysler Building. They are situated right outside the property, so you can see these Las Vegas attractions at no cost.
You may also enjoy listening to the competing pianists at The Plaza bar inside the hotel. It’s another free activity in Las Vegas as long as you arrive before 8 pm, after which they start charging an entrance fee.
Some cost-effective activities to consider in Las Vegas include seeing the Zumanity Cirque du Soleil performance or taking a ride on the Big Apple Coaster. Since it`s popular, I suggest purchasing a ticket ahead of time.
Just a brief walk from New York-New York is The Park MGM, where you’ll find inventive public art like the Water Walls and the Bliss Dance Sculpture.
10. Eiffel Tower & other free light shows in Las Vegas
Undoubtedly, among the top no-cost attractions in Las Vegas are the nightly light shows visible across the city. I previously discussed the Bellagio Fountains and performances at The Mirage and Caesars Palace, but there are a few other noteworthy options as well.
The Paris Hotelhas a magnificent replica of the Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas that illuminates in a lovely show. It has a romantic atmosphere, so it’s an excellent free place to visit in Las Vegas for couples, too. You can even climb to the top of the observation deck, but it’s a well-liked activity, so I suggest purchasing a ticket in advance.
The Lake of Dreams show at The Wynnis transcendent and another spectacular attraction worth seeing. Also, children will love the Sirens at Treasure Island Hoteland the mermaids at the Silverton HotelAquarium, which incorporate special effects and music. Finally, the Rainstorm Show at the Miracle Mile Shops is worth seeing too.
Whichever show you watch, you can’t go wrong because they’re all fun, free things to do in Vegas as a family.
11. Circus Circus, the best place for Las Vegas entertainment on a budget
Circus Circusis another iconic landmark on the Vegas Strip. The resort hosts vast entertainment as the largest permanent big top in the world.
Along with a 123,928 square foot casino and gaming area, the hotel includes three swimming pools and the Chapel of the Fountain, one of the most sought-after Las Vegas wedding spots.
Watching the displays of acrobats and circus performers at the hotel is one of the most entertaining free things to do on the Las Vegas Strip. You can see artists swinging on the trapeze, as well as contortionists and other impressive performers.
Families visiting may also want to check out the indoor Adventuredome at Circus Circus. This amusement center within the hotel contains over two dozen attractions like rides and mini-golf, as well as an arcade. Along with the water park at Splash Zone, it provides affordable activities for kids during the day in Las Vegas.
12. Take free gambling lessons in Las Vegas
Even without a passion for gambling games and slot machines, visitors to Sin City can experience wagering like the experts. Numerous highly rated casinos in Las Vegas offer free lessons on betting, making it an engaging and complimentary activity in Las Vegas.
While everyone is welcome at the casinos, you can join in quite well with the serious gamblers if you know a little about the culture and etiquette. For example, I previously had no idea that returning dice to the craps table after they`ve fallen on the ground is frowned upon!
Several casinos provide lessons for well known games such as blackjack, roulette, poker, and craps on a daily basis. Locations that offer these classes free of charge include Excalibur, Circus Circus, Luxor, The Venetian, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, and The STRAT. Since you can learn at no cost, taking advantage of the training is highly recommended during a trip to Las Vegas.
After receiving guidance, you`ll feel more confident to participate at the tables and try your skills alongside the professionals. Or, if you`re simply interested in learning the terminology and rules, these gambling classes represent one of the best free activities available on the Las Vegas Strip. Just remember that space in the lessons can fill up quickly, so if you want a seat, arrive early.
13. Shelby Heritage Center, one of the most popular free tours in Las Vegas
For automotive aficionados, a visit to the Shelby Heritage Center is worthwhile, especially as it`s a complimentary site to explore in Las Vegas that remains open daily for tours.
The Center tells the history of Carroll Shelby, an automotive designer and racer who was crucial in creating the 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350 as well as other vehicles, and the museum displays around thirty automobiles that rotate, offering a beautiful exhibition for those interested in classic sports cars.
Additionally, as the Center has no admission fee and is open to all, it represents an entertaining free activity for families to enjoy in Las Vegas.
14. Go to The Cosmopolitan & other free museums in Las Vegas
Clearly, this city isn’t just about gambling. The lavishness and glamour of the casinos are just one aspect of Las Vegas’ beauty. But there are also many museums in Las Vegas. I suggest checking out places like The Cosmopolitan,Aria Campus Fine Art Collection, and Barrick Museum if you want to see some beautiful art collections.
Best of all, experiencing the artwork of Sin City requires no cost and can be done alone or with companions. One of the top places to visit is The Cosmopolitan. This contemporary hotel hosts hundreds of pieces as well as several artistic installations focusing on painting, sculpture, photography, and additional categories.
The Aria Campus Fine Art Collection housed at the Aria Hotel is also recommended to visit, featuring works from prominent sculptors and installation artists. If you are staying at the Aria Hotel in Las Vegas and seeking low-cost or complimentary activities, be sure to stop by to view the collection.
Finally, the Barrick Museum of Art presents a varied assortment of works and offers free program entrance to individuals with low incomes.
15. Ethel M Chocolate Factory, the best cheap thing to do in Las Vegas for date night
Pairs exploring affordable things to do in Las Vegas should check out the Ethel M Chocolate Factory for gourmet sweets and a lovely setting.
Whether you have a taste for milk chocolate, caramel flavors, or an entire assortment of sweets, you can discover them here. You can gain a glimpse into the chocolate-making process free of charge or, if you`re willing to spend a small amount, take a comprehensive factory tour that includes tastings. It makes for an exceptional experience as one of the top activities to enjoy in Las Vegas as a couple.
The facilities are within the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Gardens, which are available to the general public free of charge. There, you can find hundreds of types of cacti and desert plants, as well as a holiday light show in November and December. I think it makes for a wonderful free thing to do in Vegas with kids or as a couple.
There you have 15 free things to do in Las Vegas! As you can see, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to see and experience in Sin City; you just have to know where to go. Hopefully, this guide to complimentary attractions in Las Vegas will help you make the most of your trip while preserving some money. Of course, if you have any questions, leave me a comment and I’ll be happy to help you out! Safe travels!
