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

There are such a large number of 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 relocated 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 regardless of whether gambling is an interest, Las Vegas offers plenty of activities. The city serves as an entertainment playground for adults featuring casinos, bars, restaurants, and virtually any type of show imaginable. Naturally, there are also many options for families with children, ranging from magic performances and thrill rides to playing in arcades or relaxing by the pool.

If planning to remain in the city for a few days and wanting to make the most of all the sights and activities available, I recommend obtaining a Las Vegas citypass, such as the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass.

Additionally, keep in mind that some of the top things to see in Las Vegas are in the surrounding areas, so I propose renting a vehicle in Las Vegas and exploring beyond the usual routes.

Rent an affordable vehicle for travel around Las Vegas using this site:

• Recommended accommodation: The Renaissance Albany Hotel is centrally located downtown and offers elegant rooms, private parking, a gymnasium, and an eating establishment.

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

A walk along the Strip isn’t complete without seeing the renowned Bellagio Fountains show. It takes place in front of the Bellagio resort, which draws inspiration from Italian elegance and luxury.

This attraction was the largest fountain demonstration in the world when it started, and its jet sprays can shoot water as lofty as 460 feet. Each portion 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 complimentary activities in Las Vegas, and you can see the nightly presentation 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 botanical exhibits that change with the seasons.

If you’re interested in other free activities to participate in 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 performance of colorful lights, sounds, and a special “smoke” that smells like piña coladas.

El Ventorrillo provides a cozy ambiance and a menu highlighting tasty Spanish dishes. Our top pick would be their char-grilled octopus. It really is quite delicious! At Taberna del Tío Martín, one can indulge in sharing plates and savor specialties from various Spanish regions, such as some of the finest foods of the Canary Islands.

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 region is accessible all day and night, making it one of the top places in downtown Las Vegas. I suggest going at night so you can see Viva Vision, a free light presentation with over 12 million LED lights.

If you’re visiting with kids, you must check out the Downtown Container Park, an outdoor shopping 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 shows and concerts. The park is kid-friendly until 9 p.m., so it’s a pleasant thing to do in Vegas during the daytime.

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 is evident, there are all sorts of activities possible in this region, but if you have limited time, check out this guided walking tour, which is also covered 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 novel experiences you can have 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.

`

.

`

While scenic flights make for a great activity for couples, they also provide exciting experiences in Las Vegas suitable for families. Visitors can even book a helicopter from Vegas to the Grand Canyon. We’ve discussed different tour selections to the Grand Canyon, but this oneis among the most popular. If time and budget allow for it, I strongly suggest it!

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

The Brooklyn Bridge stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Brooklyn, and all of New York, so you can’t overlook it. With a span of 6,000 feet, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge until 1903. Today, the Brooklyn Bridge is nearly 140 years of age, but it’s completely safe for you to walk, bike, or drive across. It’s one of the most beautiful bridges in NYC.

At 550 feet tall, the Ferris wheel provides panoramic perspectives of the Strip, greater Las Vegas in the distance, and the valley below. Each of its 28 cabins can accommodate up to 40 people, making it ideal for group activities. Plus, a single revolution takes approximately 30 minutes, allowing time to take in the sights.

Another enjoyable aspect of the High Roller ride is its location directly on the LINQ Promenade, so after the experience, visitors can explore the variety of shops and restaurants in the area. This section contains Las Vegas entertainment and activities appealing to all visitors.

Finally, the La Laguna Gran Hotel represents another amazing lodging option in Tenerife, specifically in the historic center of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a city recognized for its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

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 thinking about Sin City, but there are actually amazing institutions here where one can learn more regarding the city and its history. The MobMuseum is one of the best museums in Vegas, full of artifacts and displays that explain the history of organized crime in the U.S.

If you’re interested in 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.

Additionally, the lower level of the museum has a distillery where guests can relax and obtain a beverage. So, if you’re seeking something to do in Vegas other than gambling, I suggest dedicating a couple hours here. The Mob Museum is covered in the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, or admission can be obtained here.

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

The Venetian resort presents an incredible place for guests to reside, but even if you aren’t staying there, you can still explore its most popular feature. Experiencing a gondola ride at this hotel is a , or just with a group of companions.

The resort`s interior is beautifully adapted to appear like Venice, Italy, so as you float along the simulated “canal,” you`ll see replicas of famous Italian landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge, San Marcos Square, and St. Mark`s Campanile. While it requires more spending, the cost is worthwhile, especially if you wish to treat yourself or your companion to something special

Also, the cable cars pass a shopping center containing over 200 stores alongside free performances, allowing customers to shop for souvenirs while enjoying shows

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 may be surprised by how convincing some of these figures appear, as the wax artists dedicate all their efforts to capturing the essence of these stars, right down to the smallest detail. Additionally, the museum offers 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 Las Vegas attraction is suitable for enjoyment with teenagers as well, therefore representing a great choice for a family trip. The museum even possesses a virtual reality room and a bar, granting it appeal for adults too. Madame Tussauds is incredibly popular, thus you should acquire your ticket in advance. It`s included in the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, or you can obtain this combo ticketincluding Madame Tussauds and a Venetian gondola ride.

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

Checking out a casino is a must when in Vegas, even if you’re not a gambler. Just viewing the different poker rooms and gaming areas is an experience, since each casino has its own distinct atmosphere. Many hotels on and off the Strip have casino floors, but there are a few that stand out.

To start, Caesars Palace is a haven for those who enjoy 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 enjoy playing poker, head to The Venetian and test your fortune. There are in fact two casinos here, The Venetian and The Palazzo, so you’ll have your choice of any game you wish. Alongside its wide assortment of slots and video poker machines, there are live tournaments as well as racing and sporting betting.

The Golden Nugget, regarded as one of the pioneer casinos in Las Vegas, is worthwhile visiting regardless if gambling isn`t desired. This historic resort boasts a renowned shark tank waterslide and the largest golden nugget globally, plus it lies in close proximity to some of the top attractions located downtown in Las Vegas.

The STRAT presents a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can play progressive slots, a diversity of table games, or place a wager on a sports bet. I also recommend reviewing The Wynn, which has an 111,000ft2 casino with high-limit lounges. The hotel`s other features are just as impressive, like poolside gaming, a beach club/nightclub, and the kid-friendlyLake of Dreams show.

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

An activity you must partake in within Las Vegas is to witness a performance. The city hosts world-class shows, from musicians and theatrical troupes to comedians and magicians. The repertoire involves something for everyone, so whether you’re seeking an adults-only event or something to see with children, you’ll locate it here.

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

Kà at MGM Grand presents a delightful narrative of maturity, while Mystère at Treasure Island is one of the most fanciful Cirque shows. The Bellagio hosts O, an awe-inspiring aquatic show. There are also celebrity-themed displays like Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay and The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage.

Major musical performances take place throughout the year in various genres and styles, featuring well-known artists like Usher, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, and Keith Urban. You can view the schedule and purchase tickets online here.

Finally, there are classic shows in Vegas like burlesque performances, variety shows, circus acts and adult performances such as The Chippendales and Thunder Down Under. So, whether you’re visiting with family, for a bachelorette party, or something else, there is a presentation 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 locations you must visit in Las Vegas. This iconic sign has been greeting visitors since 1959, and it stands as one of the best spots for photos on the Strip.

The sign is situated 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 initiate your trip in Sin City, and it’s free to visit day and night.

We couldn’t help getting a photograph taken here during our trip; after all, it’s one of the most renowned attractions on the Vegas Strip. It’s also an inexpensive activity in Vegas, although keep in mind 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 performing arts venue and indoor shopping complex, it’s most famous for its SkyPod observation deck, where you can get some of the best panoramic views in Las Vegas.

Standing 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 spots in Las Vegas.

If you seek an exciting experience, things don`t get much more thrilling than visiting the STRAT, especially going to the very top level. This is where you will find some daring attractions including a free fall, bungee jumping, and an experience that hangs over the edge of the deck. It`s not for the fainthearted, but those brave enough to try can use the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, which also provides 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 illuminates the structure in the hues of the French flag. While it’s a fun thing to do in Las Vegas with children, it’s even better with your companion.

This resort brings the feel of Paris, France to the spotlight city, making it one of the best places for couples. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can go to the summit of the viewing tower and gaze at the dazzling Strip below. It’s truly the perfect nighttime attraction in Vegas, so reserve your ticket ahead of time or use the Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass.

The Las Vegas Eiffel Tower is 540 feet tall, which is just half the size of the original structure. However, it provides a wonderful perspective, 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, particularly if you’re seeking to get a break from the Strip. This curious attraction has all kinds of casino and business signs from years past, and it’s considered one of the best museums in Las Vegas.

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

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 engage in 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

Undoubtedly, one of the most exciting things to do in Las Vegas is to attend functions at a nightclub. All along the Strip and in downtown Vegas, you’ll discover some of the premier clubs in the country.

One of the top nightspots in Las Vegas is Omnia at Caesars Palace, which provides an enormous stage and an incredible outdoor terrace. It’s the perfect location to dance the evening away with friends. HakkasanNightclub at MGM Grand is another premier option, with five floors and a pavilion with an outdoor garden, DJ podium, and bar. It’s open until 4 a.m., so it attracts all the night owls and serious party-goers.

`

.

`

If interested in additional complimentary activities to partake in Las Vegas, and enjoyment of light displays, head to The Mirage resort. This hotel features a Polynesian-inspired volcanic eruption each night showcasing colorful lights, sounds, and a unique “smoke” smelling of piña coladas.

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

Sin City is a fascinating place for friends, couples, or partners to visit together, as one of the most distinctive events to participate in Vegas is to legally commit. Countless pairs, some celebrities, become married in Sin City yearly. Whether just for fun or truly binding, it`s an activity for partners you won`t find elsewhere.

There are quite a few well known Las Vegas wedding chapels, but one of the best regarded is Graceland, where Elvis walks the bride down the aisle and serenades with his biggest hits. Attending or participating in an Elvis wedding ceremony is an unforgettable experience to have in Las Vegas, and it’s quite popular, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time.

Other pleasant wedding sites on the Strip comprise the Chapel of Flowers and the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel. Hence, whether it is a bona fide marriage or simply a symbolic ceremony to express your affection, it is something that can exclusively take place in Vegas.

Best day trips from Las Vegas

While Las Vegas offers plenty to see and do, be certain to explore outside the city if staying for several days. Surrounding zones boast so many amazing day trips from Las Vegas, so I highly advise visiting one or two of the below sites.

Similarly, from our experience, hiring a vehicle in Las Vegas is the simplest approach to traveling within Las Vegas and beyond. However, if driving is not preferred, many excellent tours are available, allowing guests to still appreciate the .

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

Under an hour`s drive from the Strip, you’ll find the Hoover Dam, an amazing feat of human engineering. Here, self-guided tours take visitors through the Visitors Center, where the dam’s history and legacy are explained through models showing its power systems and infrastructure. Scenic walking paths and outlooks are also available.

While it’s easy to access, there are several excellent Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas. This three-hour excursion takes visitors to the dam and includes stops at Boulder City and Lake Mead along the route. Individuals will walk across the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the dam, the Colorado River, and Lake Mead.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area encompasses nearly 1.5 million acres of shorelines, piers, wilderness regions, and the country`s largest reservoir generated by the Hoover Dam. If you’re searching for 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 away from the city, so it`s little wonder why it`s one of the most visited attractions near Las Vegas. There are all kinds of Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas, so you can find the one that best suits your interests and budget.

I advise taking a Grand Canyon helicopter adventure so you can view the full magnitude of this natural wonder. The Grand Canyon Voyager is one of my favorites since it incorporates an airplane flight over the West Rim, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River, plus a landing by helicopter below the rim.

This excursion also allows time to explore some of the most popular overlooks on the Western Edge, like Guano Point and Eagle Point. We appreciated this one and would do it again in a heartbeat. You can even upgrade the tour to include access to the famed Skywalk.

For a budget-friendly option, this South Rim tour is an excellent choice to make. Travelers will be picked up by bus from their Vegas hotel then driven along the historic Route 66 route to the Grand Canyon. There, visitors will view the outlooks at Mather Point and Bright Angel and take a vista hike to see the widespread South Rim. It represents an amazing activitynear Las Vegas if time allows.

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is under half an hour from the gambling capital, making it worth your while. Here, you can enjoy hiking routes suitable for all fitness levels, rendering it a great spot near Las Vegas with the kids. The Lost Creek – Children’s Discovery Trail is an excellent path with a waterfall, although exploring Calico Tanks and Calico Hills is also worthwhile.

Other highlights at this location embrace Ice Box Canyon and the Petroglyph Wall, so be certain to dedicate a few hours exploring this place. It`s an excellent activity to engage in in Vegas during the daylight hours, and there`s even a Scenic Drive that you can take if tiredness sets in. Of course, if renting a car isn`t an option, tours from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon, similar to this one, are available.

Valley of Fire

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

Making your way along the scenic coastal route past rocky promontories and some of the park’s landmark places. Hiking the trails is also worthwhile to see stunning panoramas and natural formations like the aptly-named Pink Canyon, Arch Rock, and Elephant Rock.

You also should see the Fire Wave, a striped rock formation; or the Rainbow Vista, offering a landscape in reds, pinks, oranges, yellows, and grays. There are different Valley of Fire tours from Vegas, although I prefer this guided hike, and consider it to be among the best outdoor activities near Las Vegas.

Area 51

Area 51 is an alluring locale for anyone keen on aliens and the supernatural, and it’s just hours from Vegas. This full day trip provides a quality Area 51 tour from Las Vegas including a stop at the so-called “Janet Airlines” at McCarran airport and the mysterious Black Mailbox for UFO enthusiasts hoping for alien contact. This bus tour also travels along the Extraterrestrial Highway and right up to the perimeter of Area 51, the world’s most covert military installation.

The National Atomic Testing Museum is located nearby and has an Area 51 exhibit as well as various propaganda and artifacts from the Nevada Test Site. Visiting these attractions is an unusual activity in Las Vegas, but highly entertaining, especially if you’re curious about the idea of aliens.

I advise accessing Chinatown via the Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue. After that, you must go to Portsmouth Square, where the flag of the United States was originally raised in 1846.

Death Valley

Death Valley is one of my preferred places to visit in the Southwestern United States, and it stands out as one of the mostinteresting locales near Las Vegas to see. Situated two hours away in the Mojave Desert, it occupies the second-largest national park in the country and has landscapes I’ve seen that are some of the most awe-inspiring.”

Additionally, there exist numerous Death Valley tours from Las Vegas, though I favor this full-day tour. You will see well-known locales 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.

Your tour will include the Artist’s Palette, a colorful landscape created by oxidized minerals, and the Devil’s Golf Course, an intriguing region with unique geological formations.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park offers magnificent perspectives and energizing trails, so adventure enthusiasts should experience this during a trip to Las Vegas. There are too many attractions to name here, but you should learn about some of the highlights of this remarkable national park.

First, The Narrows is a magnificent gorge carved by water that you can hike through and a great alternative if you can`t secure a permit to visit The Subway (another area of the park where visitors are chosen randomly).

The hike to emphatically highlighted Angels Landing is tricky, but worthwhile for the 360° perspectives. However, if you’re journeying with kids, the Emerald Pools trail is also very pleasant. You also can’t miss the imposing shapes here, like the three peaks of the Court of the Patriarchs.

Visiting Zion is ideally something to enjoy during a weekend trip to Las Vegas, but if you lack that time and still wish to go, you can take this excursion. It is one of the best Zion tours from Las Vegas and includes a stop at nearby Bryce Canyon, which is renowned for its unique geological formations that appear otherworldly.

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Generally considered the most remarkable place to visit near Las Vegas, Antelope Canyon is a photographer`s ideal. This water-carved sandstone slot canyon is renowned for its distinctive formations. Walking through provides a magical experience, especially when rays of sunlight pierce the walls and brighten the canyon floor.

.

”

Horseshoe Bend is just 15 minutes from Antelope Canyon and a must-see for its dramatic vantage point. Located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this incised channel along the Colorado River creates a unique horseshoe shape, which can be seen 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 plenty of lodging 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 comprehensive list of the best places to lodge in Vegas, but here are a few of my top recommendations:

• Luxury: The Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas is renowned not only for its iconic Bellagio Fountains display but also for its lavish suites and amenities, earning it a reputation as one of the finest resorts in the city.
• Mid-price: Mandalay Bay is a cost-effective option for staying with family, and along with featuring one of the top pools in Las Vegas, it includes premier performance venues, a casino, a nightclub, and a spa.
• Funding: The Excalibur demonstrates that one can lodge in a magnificent resort without exhausting financial resources. This low-cost hotel in Las Vegas includes an arcade, a pool complex, and several residency performances.

Best restaurants in Las Vegas

Dining at some of the finest 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 types of cuisines and at varying price points.

Initially, Sin City offers magnificent upscale dining venues to savor an exquisite meal. The meat items at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Bazaar Meat by José Andrés are sublime, and both restaurants are perfect for a memorable evening together.

If you favor hearty Italian cuisine, check out La Strega for traditional pastas and delectable 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.

Naturally, partaking in alcoholic refreshments is part of what makes Las Vegas such a unique experience, so be sure to visit one of the highest establishments in Sin City serving drinks. We enjoyed the Pinnacle Room, a refined lounge at Mandalay Bay with skilled mixologists and entertainment.

The VooDoo Lounge at the Rio Hotel is also highly entertaining, and it`s located on the 51^st floor, so the perspectives are amazing. 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 assists you in planning your trip to Las Vegas! Be sure to download this map with all the Las Vegas attractions, hotels, and eateries I mentioned. We also have other Las Vegas tourist maps if you’d like to view specific parts of the city.

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