53 Cool Things to Do in Las Vegas (By a Local)

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Attractions & Sites | Museums & Culture | Food & Drink | Nightlife | Free Things | With Kids

As the entertainment capital of the world, there’s an incredible number of things to do in Las Vegas.

But don’t feel overwhelmed — I’m a Las Vegas local who can help you find the best attractions for you.

This guide highlights some of the city’s top hotels, shows, and restaurants. I also cover where to indulge your vices in Sin City, like the top bars and nightclubs. Plus, I share activities for all ages and budgets, along with day trip destinations and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Las Vegas Strip Walking Tour

The Las Vegas Strip is one of the most popular downtown Las Vegas attractions. Key activities include the Bellagio fountain show, Caesar’s Palace, and the New York New York roller coaster. Las Vegas Boulevard also contains incredible restaurants and bars, and many of the best hotels and casinos.

Walking the Las Vegas Strip is completely free and you will get to see many incredible things that you might want to experience. From gambling in the casinos to dancing in one of the best clubs in Vegas, to diving in hotel pools, the list of things to do on the Strip is endless. 

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Pose in front of the Fabulous Las Vegas Welcome Sign.

📍 Google Maps

Even people who have never been to Las Vegas, Nevada have probably seen the iconic Las Vegas Sign is in movies and shows. It is 25 feet tall and at night, it lights up with a gorgeous view of the Strip behind it. 

The sign is one of the best free attractions in Las Vegas. It’s open year-round and is the perfect place to get those Las Vegas vacation photos in. There are often professional photographers around who charge money, but they might be helpful if you have a larger group! 

High Roller

Ride the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel and get the best views in Las Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 855-234-7469 | Website | Hours: 12:30 pm – 11:30 am Mon-Thu, 12:30 pm – 1:30 am Fri-Sun | Entrance: $29-$39, adults, $10-$19 under 12 | 👉 Book Your High Roller Admission Ticket

The High Roller Observation Wheel is the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel. It is in the center of the LINQ promenade. The Ferris wheel takes around 30 minutes to go around and once you are at the top, you will see stunning views of Las Vegas and its surrounding towns.

The High Roller also has the option to go in a wheel which has an open bar section. It costs an extra $30 (or you can get it included with a Go Las Vegas pass).

The LINQ promenade also has different places to shop, eat, and enjoy live music at the Brooklyn Bowl. Plus, the LINQ Hotel has a stunning pool on the second floor with all-day pool parties.

The STRAT 

Enjoy a thrilling experience like no other at Las Vegas’ tallest building.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 998-6937 | Website | 👉 Book Your Admission Ticket for The STRAT Tower Observation Deck

The STRAT is the tallest building in Las Vegas, which you can see almost wherever you are in Las Vegas. From the observation deck, you can walk around and take photos with incredible views.

The STRAT also offers a variety of unique activities for those thrill-seekers out there! There are extreme thrill rides at the top of the building which will dangle you over the Strip, slide you off the building, or shoot you up very fast.

Try bungee jumping from the very top of Las Vegas (an 855 foot platform) to the very bottom! At over $100, it’s not cheap. But here’s a tip: if you purchase a 3, 4, or 5-day Go Las Vegas all-inclusive pass, you can get the SkyJump included as your premium attraction.

To end the day, stop by The Top of The World restaurant for one of the most extraordinary fine dining experiences you will ever have. This restaurant has delicious food and while you are eating, it spins you slowly, offering panoramic views of the beautiful Las Vegas Strip.

AREA 15 & Omega Mart

Indulge your imagination in this unique art, music, and amusement playground.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 846-1900 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 10 pm Sun-Thu, 11 am – 12 am Fri & Sat | Entrance: Daytime Entry Free

AREA 15 is an immersive playground with everything from virtual reality to interactive art exhibits. It even has rides, axe throwing, golfing, and awesome Las Vegas restaurants to try out.  

Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart is a cool immersive art experience where you can interact with the art by following a storyline. You can spend hours there without even seeing everything that there is to see. 

AREA 15 also has unique Vegas bars like the Lost Spirits Distillery, which hosts a distillery tour and entertaining show. There are often concerts or live shows you can also attend. It is free to walk around AREA 15, but many of the attractions and exhibits will cost extra money.

Hoover Dam

Explore one of the seven engineering wonders of the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 494-2517 | Website | Hours: 5 am – 9 pm Daily | Entrance: Free to enter, $30 guided dam tour, $15 guided power plant tour | 👉 Browse Hoover Dam Tours

The Hoover Dam is an engineering wonder because of the fascinating process it took to create it. The Hoover Dam is free to walk around, but you can take guided tours of the dam and power plant for a fee.

You will not regret going to see the Hoover Dam. It’s beautiful in the way that it has helped to fuel energy in Las Vegas and surrounding cities in Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Check out the beautiful natural red rocks that form this Las Vegas conservation area.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 515-5350 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: $20 per vehicle  | 👉 Browse Red Rock Canyon Tours

Red Rock Canyon is around a 30-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. It has incredible wildlife, beautiful mountains, and some of the best campsites near Las Vegas.

There are several Red Rock Canyon tours available. Consider taking a hiking tour with a knowledgeable guide, or explore by bike, scooter, or AWD vehicle. If you want to try horseback riding through the mountains, Red Rock Canyon is the perfect place to do that, too. 

You can also check out the Red Rock Canyon visitors’ centers, featuring incredible indoor and outdoor exhibits. If you don’t feel like walking around, there is a 13-mile Scenic Loop Drive that will take you through Red Rock Canyon and allow you to see all the gorgeous sights.

Death Valley National Park

Hike through beautiful landscapes at the closest national park to Las Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (760) 786-3200 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: $30 per vehicle | 👉 Browse Death Valley National Park Tours

The hottest and lowest point in the United States is Death Valley National Park. It’s a must-see destination for those visiting Las Vegas, located just across the border in California. Death Valley is around a two-hour drive from downtown Las Vegas and costs $30 per vehicle.

Despite its intimidating name, Death Valley is a beautiful landscape with lovely scenery and wildlife. If you visit between February and April, you won’t be able to miss the vibrant desert wildflowers everywhere. Admire the scenery and be sure to take the easy hike to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

Grand Canyon

Try rafting, walk on a glass bridge, and zipline through the Grand Canyon.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 888-868-9378 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6:30 pm Daily | Entrance: Prices Vary | 👉 Browse Grand Canyon Tours

The south rim of the Grand Canyon is one of the best parts of the Grand Canyon, but it is a five-hour drive from Las Vegas. Taking a helicopter tour from Las Vegas is one of the coolest and fastest ways to get to the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

Alternatively, drive two hours from Las Vegas to the west rim, where there is still plenty to see and do. Whitewater rafting on the Colorado River is a very popular activity here, as are thrilling zipline rides.

Alternative, you can simply hike and take photos at this iconic Arizona destination. No matter the activity, you’re sure to have your breath taken away by the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Valley of Fire

Hike in a historic park filled with petroglyphs and wildlife.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 397-2088 | Website | Hours: Sunrise – Sunset daily | Entrance: $15 per vehicle | 👉 Browse Valley of Fire Tours

The gorgeous red mountains and sand formations you will find at the Valley of Fire are unforgettable. Valley of Fire State Park is only an hour from the city and features some of the best hikes near Las Vegas.

Atlatl Rock features ancient petroglyphs which are cool to see and try to figure out what they mean. Valley of Fire State Park is also known for its petrified wood logs from over 200 million years ago, which you will find at the entrances to the park. 

The Fire Wave hike is one of the most popular in the park, because of the beautiful hike and photo opportunities. No matter where you hike or look in the Valley of Fire, there are unique places to explore.

Zion National Park

Journey through a large canyon filled with beautiful pools and hiking trails.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (435) 772-3256 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: $35 per vehicle | 👉 Browse Zion National Park Tours

Located in Utah, Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful places to see for nature lovers. It’s about 3 hours from downtown Las Vegas, so you can make it into a day trip or a nice weekend getaway. 

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive takes you through the canyon, along the Virgin River, and to popular Utah hiking trails. The Riverside Walk and the Lower Emerald Pools Trail are easier hikes that lead to natural pools and waterfalls. The Narrows and Angels Landing are more difficult trails but are iconic to Zion National Park.

Las Vegas Attractions & Sites

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Fashion Show Mall

Window shop and watch a free fashion show.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 784-7000 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu, 10 am – 9 pm Fri and Sat, 11 am – 7 pm Sun

Fashion Show Mall is on the Las Vegas Strip, and it is a fantastic place to shop, eat, and watch a live fashion show. In the middle of the mall is a runway that comes out of the floor when it is being used for fashion shows. 

There is typically a free fashion show once a week, so check out its website or call to get more information. The mall is decorated seasonally, so the holidays are an especially pretty time to walk around and look at the decorations.

The Mirage

See volcanoes explode and meet the dolphins at this iconic Las Vegas hotel.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 1-702-791-7111 | Website | Hours: 24/7 

The Mirage is a hotel that’s famous for its exciting nightly volcano eruptions which are free entertainment for everyone.

The Beatles Love Cirque Du Soleil show also takes place here, and if you feel like having a good laugh, the Aces of Comedy series features different comedians weekly. 

The Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat has dolphins, white tigers, and white lions for you to interact with. General admission tickets are $25, or you can buy different tickets to meet and feed the dolphins.

Tivoli Village

Feel as though you’ve stepped into another country while walking through this beautiful shopping mall.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 534-0000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu, 10 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat, 11 am – 6 pm Sun

Tivoli Village is an outdoor shopping mall in Summerlin, one of the best Las Vegas neighborhoods. It’s around a 20-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Tivoli Village has an intriguing architecture that took inspiration from buildings found in Italy. 

There are many cute boutiques where you can do a little shopping. Tivoli Village also often has a farmers market where you can help support local businesses by purchasing their handcrafted items. 

There are also many fine dining options at Tivoli Village. This includes El Dorado, a fabulous Mexican restaurant. Thursday nights are Latin nights with live music and lots of dancing!

Paris Hotel

Have a romantic evening at celebrity restaurants with great views on the Eiffel Tower.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (877) 796-2096 | Website | Hours: 24/7

The Paris Hotel is a hotel on the Las Vegas Strip that has a huge Eiffel Tower replica in front of it. If you have always wanted to go to France, this is the next best thing (and one of the most Instagram-worthy things to do in Vegas).

The Eiffel Tower Experience takes you high above Sin City for incredible skyline views. It is known for being very romantic and visiting is one of the best date ideas in Las Vegas.

Paris Las Vegas also has some of the finest dining options on the Strip. This includes Nobu, Mon Ami Gabi, Gordon Ramsay Steak, and Vanderpump à Paris.

Mandalay Bay

Relax on the beach and lounge in the lazy river.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: 877 632 7700 | Website | Hours: 24/7

Mandalay Bay Resort has a variety of fun things to do including the Shark Reef Aquarium and its extraordinary pool area.

The Shark Reef Aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals including sharks, stingrays, and endangered sea turtles. While visiting the Shark Reef, you can also feed the stingrays or sharks for an extra cost.  

The Mandalay Bay Pool is also unique because it feels like you are at the beach. It even has a lazy river and a wave pool! Mandalay Bay often hosts concerts on the beach during the summertime, making you forget you are in the middle of the desert.

If you want to see a Cirque Du Soleil show, Michael Jackson ONE is a show that takes place at Mandalay Bay.

Lake Mead

Unwind on the water at Lake Mead.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 293-8990 | Website

If you want to spend a day out on the water, but not too far away from Las Vegas, Lake Mead is the perfect place. It’s a great place to go to beat the Vegas heat.

The stunning reservoir resulted from the creation of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. There are plenty of things to do on the water including kayaking, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. Lake Mead also offers a dinner cruise where you can enjoy a delicious 3-course meal on the water.

Activities on land are plentiful, too. Consider an ATV tour of Lake Mead or take a beautiful hike. The Historic Railroad Hiking Trail takes you on a path through an abandoned railroad. The Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail is a more intense trail but the hot springs at the end are worth it!

👉 Pro Tip: Be sure to check the trails you want to hike on their website because many of them close during the summer season due to heat. 

Area 51

Endeavor on an alien hunt like no other.

📍 Google Maps | 👉Area 51 Day Tour from Las Vegas

Area 51 is a highly classified Air Force Facility that has been the heart of many alien conspiracies due to its historical UFO sightings. Unfortunately, government officials are the only people permitted in Area 51, so you can’t get too close. 

But you can cruise down the Extraterrestrial Highway and stop by the Black Mailbox to try spotting a UFO in the sky. Check out the Area 51 Alien Center on your journey for alien-themed souvenirs or to grab an original Area 51 meal. 

If you want the full Area 51 experience, take the Area 51 day tour to learn about all the places of meaning and the full history of the facility. 

The Escape Game Las Vegas

Break out of prison, join an art heist, and strike gold at Escape Game Las Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 710-8144 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 12 am Daily | Entrance: $42.99 per person | 👉 Las Vegas Escape Game Tickets

The Escape Game Las Vegas is one of the best places in downtown Las Vegas to do an escape room. An escape room is a fun mission where you try to escape by solving a multitude of puzzles with other people. You will find Escape Game at the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace on the Las Vegas Strip. 

There are a variety of rooms with varying difficulty levels. These include Prison Break, Gold Rush, and The Heist. I tried The Heist escape room and it is the best one I have ever done. The mission is very intricate with many different parts, but you can always ask the friendly staff for clues if you need help.

Be sure to book tickets in advance, because the games tend to fill up very fast!

Dig This

Bulldoze your way through this heavy equipment playground.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 268-2907 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4 pm Daily | Entrance: Prices vary

Dig This is a unique amusement park where you can crush cars, operate bulldozers, and drive around excavators in the desert. It even has excavators that are kid-sized so everyone in the family can join in on the fun. 

The different experiences range in pricing, with the cheapest one being driving a skid steer track loader, priced at $175. Most experiences last anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half, so you can make the most of your purchase.

Wreck Room

Let your rage out in this all-inclusive Wreck Room.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 405-6407 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 7 pm Daily | Entrance: $75 per person

The Wreck Room Las Vegas is the perfect place to let off some steam. This unique place gives you a variety of items in a large room and tools to break, smash, or wreck absolutely everything. 

It cleans up after you, so there’s no stress in making a giant mess. You are also guaranteed a private room when you book with Wreck Room, so there are no strangers to judge if things get pretty wild!  

Topgolf

Play a friendly game of golf with amazing views of the Las Vegas Strip.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 933-8458 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 1 am Sun-Thu, 9 am – 2 am Fri-Sat | Entrance: Varies

Topgolf is a fun experience for everyone, even if you have never played golf before. This Topgolf location is just off the Las Vegas Strip, allowing you to see the bright neon lights and casinos while enjoying a game of golf. 

Up high on an elevated platform, golfers try to land balls into any of the huge holes on the ground. The vibe is laid back, and Topgolf keeps track of your score for you using advanced technology.

Prices differ depending on what day of the week you go, and also the times that you choose to go. If you are looking for a cheaper option, go on Mondays through Thursdays from 10 am to 12 pm. If you are 21 and older, you can also swim at its unique Hideaway Pool.

Axehole Las Vegas

Stop at this unique Las Vegas attraction while cruising down Fremont Street.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 876-9293 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 1 am Mon-Thu, 10 am – 2 am Fri & Sat, 12 pm – 1 am Sun | Entrance: $40 per person

Found along Fremont Street, Axehole Las Vegas is a great place to have some fun with a beer in hand. Book this experience to learn how to throw things like axes, ninja stars, spears, and shovels.

Axehole Las Vegas also features its own Smash Room where you can relieve stress by breaking a handful of items. 

Las Vegas Museums & Culture

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Neon Museum 

Learn about all the neon lights in Las Vegas history.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 387-6366 | Website | Hours: 6 pm – 12 am Daily | Entrance: $25 adults, $12.50 child(7-17)

The Las Vegas Neon Museum is home to all of the iconic neon signs that have played a role in Las Vegas history. During the daytime, tickets to see the main signs and attractions are $20. 

At night, tickets are more expensive because the signs light up and music plays to give you the full experience. This is an incredible place to take photos, and to learn about Sin City and its love for all things neon!

Mob Museum

Find yourself immersed in the world of organized crime.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 229-2734 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: $34.95 General Admission

The Mob Museum is officially named the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. In this museum, you will find the history of organized crime and explore what impacts it had on American society. There are artifacts and immersive experiences which will transport you into the world of organized crime. 

General admission tickets will give you an all-day pass to the exhibits, while the deluxe pass includes an interactive exhibit. The interactive exhibits include the crime lab, the distillery tour and tasting, or a firearm training simulator. These exhibits are all fascinating and it makes the experience so much fun to be able to be a part of it. 

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Get up close and personal with life-size wax figures of your favorite celebrities.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 862-7800 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: $39.99 General Admission

I don’t know about you, but meeting a celebrity has always been on my bucket list, and Madame Tussauds may be the closest thing to it! This museum in the Venetian Hotel features lifelike wax figures of over 100 celebrities. Actors, musicians, and athletes appear at Madame Tussauds. 

Madame Tussauds also features a rooftop Hangover Bar, which is an interactive experience based on The Hangover movies. There’s also a 4D Marvel Universe exhibit where you will experience the world of superheroes with all kinds of special effects. 

You can also add a gondola ride to your Madame Tussauds admission ticket. Who knows — while you are there, you might bump into one of the real people!  

Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

Join the paranormal in this museum with haunted artifacts.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 444-0744 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7:45 pm Daily, Closed Tue | Entrance: $54 General Admission 

Those visiting Las Vegas who are into the paranormal can’t miss Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum. It’s not for the faint of heart, as it is inside of a haunted mansion from 1938. You may recognize the name Zak Bagans from the popular show Ghost Adventures on Travel Channel. 

There are over 30 different rooms with famous haunted items like the Dybbuk Box and Dr. Kevorkian’s death van. Many people have claimed to see figures of people haunting the museum while they were walking around.

If you’re feeling brave, you can try its late-night flashlight ghost tour which allows you to roam the hallways in the dark with a few other people. 

Atomic Museum

Learn the history of nuclear weapons at the only atomic museum in the United States.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 409-7366 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: $29 adults, $15 under 18 

The Atomic Museum has different exhibits and artifacts to help people learn about the history of nuclear weapons. For an extra $6 with your admission, you can also take the Area 51 tour which will teach you all about the UFO sightings and history of Area 51.

You will see equipment from the testing site and can participate in interactive exhibits. You will also learn about the impact the atomic testing had on Las Vegas in the past and more about why Nevada played a huge role in nuclear weapon testing.

Clark County Museum

Expand your knowledge about the history of Southern Nevada.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 455-7955 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm Daily | Entrance: $2, adults, $1, children

The Clark County Museum lets you explore the history of places in southern Nevada including Boulder City and Las Vegas.

Heritage Street features historic houses which are set up to show you different points of history. Walk through its mining exhibit to see different minerals and even parts of an old ghost town. The gaming and entertainment history of Las Vegas is also one of the main attractions.

Las Vegas Food & Drink

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BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark

Experience an unforgettable night of fine dining.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 960-4000 | Website | Hours: 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Sun & Mon, 5 pm – 9 pm Thu & Fri, 5 pm – 9:30 pm Saturdays, Closed Tue & Wed | Entrance: $99.95 per person 

Blackout Dining in the Dark is an extremely unique restaurant where you eat your meal in the dark. It is a great opportunity to go off the grid for a short period of time because it requires electronics to be in secure lockers during the meal.

The price may seem high, but it includes a delicious 7-course meal. The experience lasts for around an hour and a half, and once it is over, your server will reveal the meals that you ate. The goal of this restaurant is to allow you to heighten your sense of taste and smell, changing the way you experience food.

Make sure to make reservations in advance, because they usually fill up extremely quickly.

🍽️ Love dining experiences? Join one of these food tours to enjoy the Las Vegas restaurant scene. 

Bazaar Meat

Indulge in a delicious meal created by Michelin-starred Chef José Andrés.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 761-7610 | Website | Hours: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm Sun-Thu; 5 pm – 9:30 pm Fri & Sat

Las Vegas has a variety of celebrity chef restaurants, with Bazaar Meat said to be one of the best restaurants in Nevada. You will find Bazaar Meat inside the Sahara hotel. This restaurant has won several awards and praises, and celebrity chef José Andrés owns it. 

As you can tell by the name, the main items featured on this menu are meat-based. This restaurant is on the more expensive side so prepare to spend a good chunk of money. 

Minus5 ICEBAR

Enjoy a chilling experience in this bar where even your cups are ice.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 489-3545 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 12 am Sun-Thu, 11 am – 2 am Fri & Sat | Entrance: $24 adults, prices vary per ticket

Minus5 ICEBAR is a unique bar where everything, even your chairs, are ice. The cool thing about this bar is that people of all ages are welcome. It offers mocktails for children, making it one of the best things to do in Vegas with kids.

You will see incredible ice sculptures in different ice-themed rooms. With your general admission ticket, you will get gloves and a parka so you can stay warm. There are also other types of tickets you can buy, with some of them including drinks, photos, and souvenirs.

There are three locations in Las Vegas: one in the  LINQ Promenade, one in the Venetian, and one which is in Mandalay Bay.

Dave & Buster’s

Play arcade games, check out the sports bar, and eat dinner.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 984-4800 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 12 am Mon & Tue, 11 am – 1 am Wed-Fri, 10 am – 1 am Sat, 9:30 am – 12 am Sun | Entrance: Free

Dave & Buster’s is not your typical restaurant or bar, because its main allure is that it is a huge arcade. Of course, you can sit at the bar and watch sports or dine in the restaurant area, but you can also play a variety of games while you are there. 

The entrance is free, but to play the arcade games, you can pay anywhere from $15 and up depending on how much time you plan to spend in the arcade. Anyone under the age of 18 is only welcome if they are with an adult who is over the age of 25 years old. 

Las Vegas Nightlife

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Fremont Street Experience

See the bright light shows, live entertainment, and classic hotels on Fremont Street.

📍 Google Maps

Fremont Street is where what we now know as Sin City all began. The oldest casino in Las Vegas, Golden Gate Hotel and Casino, is still standing to this day. You will also find one of the newest adults-only hotels on Fremont Street, Circa.

Gold Spike is a hip bar with games like giant beer pong and foosball, and it is very popular on Fremont Street. The Nerd is a huge video game and arcade bar guaranteed to be an insane amount of fun.

Fremont Street offers nightly live entertainment for free, and it also has incredible light shows every night. It’s the perfect place to go for people seeking fun nightlife without having to go to a nightclub.

The Chandelier Bar 

Surround yourself with a magnificent chandelier while drinking handcrafted cocktails.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 698-7000 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

The Chandelier in The Cosmopolitan is one of the main attractions at the hotel. It is 44 feet tall, and it features a three-level bar within the chandelier. Each level of the bar makes you feel like you are somewhere different.

The first level of the bar is in the middle of the casino so it has more of a lounge feel. Level 1.5 of the bar is more hidden and makes you feel like you are inside of the chandelier. On level two, it is another lounge with lots of seating, but it is not in the middle of the casino. 

The Verbena is the most popular drink at this bar, and even though it is not officially on the menu, you can still order it. This drink is unique because it features a tiny flower that numbs your tongue and allows your tastebuds to experience the drink in a different way.

Party Bus Tours

Travel Las Vegas Boulevard in style.

👉 Browse Party Bus Tours

Jumping on a party bus is sure to give you an unforgettable experience! You can rent your own party bus if you have your own itinerary, but it is much cheaper to do the party bus tours.

Some of the party bus tours you can go on include nightclub or day club crawls, bar crawls, or even just tours of Las Vegas Boulevard. Most of these tours will also include admission to nightclubs or day clubs with the price of the party bus.

Caesars Palace

Visit one of the most famous hotels in Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (866) 227-5938 | Website | Hours: 24/7

Caesars Palace is a luxury hotel on the Las Vegas Strip and it is famous because of its appearance in different movies like The Hangover and Iron Man. The hotel’s iconic restaurant, Guy Savoy, is the only restaurant in America by famous chef Guy Savoy and it is incredible. 

Caesars Palace also has breathtaking architecture and five different beautiful pools. The Forum Shops inside Caesars include luxury and designer shops for you to browse or indulge in a shopping spree. OMNIA nightclub, one of the best clubs in Las Vegas, is also located inside Caesars Palace. 

Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub

Party at one of the best Las Vegas clubs.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 777-3800 | Website | Entrance: $30 – $100 males, $20 – $50 females

For many visitors, Vegas is synonymous with nightlife. And Drai’s is definitely one of the best clubs in town. The club is two stories high and the top level is actually on the roof of The Cromwell, so you get to see the beautiful lights in the city while partying. 

Drai’s is set apart from other clubs because it always has famous musicians and DJs that give full-length concerts. During the day, you can enjoy the party and music while also swimming and getting sun. Then, you can dance the night away.

👉 Pro Tip: Be sure to check the dress code before going out, as most clubs in Las Vegas will not allow people to wear jeans, pants, or torn clothes. 

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas

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Bellagio Hotel

See the spectacular fountain shows at Bellagio Hotel.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 987-6667 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

The Bellagio Hotel took its inspiration from a small village in Lombardy, Italy. The main attraction is the Bellagio Fountains which have incredible free fountain shows almost every 30 minutes. Another free and beautiful thing to see while at the Bellagio is its indoor botanical gardens, which change with every season. 

The Bellagio also has a bakery with a 27-foot-tall chocolate fountain. If you’re open to spending a little money, it has some of the best desserts in Las Vegas and a delicious breakfast pastry selection.

“O” by Cirque Du Soleil is also hosted inside the Bellagio and is one of the most famous shows in Las Vegas! 

Arts District

Get lost in a community with art, shops, and restaurants.

📍 Google Maps

The Arts District is just a 5-minute drive away from downtown Las Vegas, but it is one of those hidden gems that not everyone knows about. Here, you will find a unique vibe that you would not find anywhere else in Las Vegas. 

The Arts District has gorgeous art murals all over the place, each painted by local artists. You can take all the photos you want! It also has quite a selection of thrift stores, including Buffalo Exchange and Alt Rebel. 

On the first Friday of every month, the Arts District hosts one of the best Las Vegas festivals. It includes food trucks, local artists, and live music.

There are also many delicious places to eat and drink in the Arts District. The Velveteen Rabbit is one of the best places to go in Las Vegas for cocktails, and there are also several local craft breweries.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden

Get an inside peek at the creation of their delicious chocolates and sweets.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 435-2608 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm Daily | Entrance: Free 

If you have a sweet tooth, head over to Ethel M Chocolate Factory to take a self-guided tour, free of cost. You will get a chance to see the kitchens where chefs prepare the chocolates, fillings, and other tasty treats. It often offers chocolate tasting classes and special events, too, like chocolate and wine pairings.

At Ethel M Chocolate Factory, you will also find the largest cactus garden in the southwest United States. After touring the factory, be sure to take a stroll through the garden to view the many different cacti and succulents. During the holiday season, the cactus garden features a beautiful arrangement of lights.

Seven Magic Mountains

Check out this unique and free art exhibit in the middle of the Las Vegas desert.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 381-5182 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

If you are looking for the perfect place to take photos, trust me when I say this is it. Seven Magic Mountains is a one-of-a-kind art exhibit in the middle of the desert. It has become so popular that instead of being a limited exhibit, it is in Las Vegas to stay.

Even though it is very popular, it is not always crowded and people are always pretty nice about letting each other take photos. This is an extremely cool art piece, and if you get the chance, it is definitely worth seeing. 

M&M’S Store Las Vegas 

Explore four floors filled with every kind of M&M candy you could imagine and more.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 740-2504 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 12 am Mon-Thu, 9 am – 1 am Fri-Sun | Entrance: Free 

The M&M Las Vegas store was the first M&M store to ever open. There are all kinds of different flavors of M&Ms here that you would never think existed. 

All the souvenirs are also M&M-related, so it is the perfect place for anyone who loves this candy. You can even customize your own M&Ms to include any messages or colors that you want.

If you’re lucky, you might even find an M&M character walking around for the perfect photo-op. It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Vegas.

Things to Do in Vegas with Kids

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Attractions & Sites | Museums & Culture | Food & Drink | Nightlife | Free Things | With Kids

Coca Cola Store

Taste test sodas from different countries.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 270-5952 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10 pm Daily | Entrance: Free 

The Coca Cola Store is right in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip, and you cannot miss it with the massive Coca Cola bottle right in front of it. This is the perfect place to bring your kids.

Try a flavor tour of 16 sodas from different countries for only $8. You might also catch a glimpse of its famous polar bear walking around!

👉 Want More Family-Friendly Activities? Check out my full guide to 27 things to do with kids in Vegas!

Adventuredome

Ride the only indoor double-loop roller coaster in the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 794-3939 | Website | Hours: Varies per day | Entrance: $60, adults, $30 under 48” tall 

For theme park lovers, Adventuredome has activities for all ages, away from the Las Vegas heat. There are rides specifically made for children and for adults. Silly clown shows may pop up at any moment during your time at the Adventuredome, so get ready to laugh.

Enjoy the arcade, mini golf, or even a 4D show when you are at the Adventuredome in Las Vegas. If you visit during Halloween, this place turns into a massive haunted house called Frightdome. 

Lion Habitat Ranch

Marvel at some of the world’s most majestic animals.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 595-6666 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 2 pm Daily, Closed Wed | Entrance: $25, adults, $10 Children | 👉 Reserve Lion Habitat Ranch Tickets

The Lion Habitat Ranch is home to over 20 lions, Nevada’s only giraffe, ostriches, and exotic birds. Ozzie the Giraffe even paints pictures every 30 minutes, which is a show you get to see for free with admission tickets.

You might also want to purchase separate tickets to feed Ozzie or even get a chance to feed the lions. But even if you don’t pay to feed the animals yourself, the employees are very kind and they will feed them so you can see them up close.

Springs Preserve

Learn about Nevada history, see wildlife, and take a train ride through the birthplace of Las Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 822-7700 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily, Closed Tue & Wed | Entrance: $18.95, adults, $10.95 under 17 

The Las Vegas Springs Preserve aims to teach people about the history of Las Vegas and demonstrates ways to help the future be better.

You can take a real train ride and see the different parts of Las Vegas history. Additionally, there are two museums in the preserve: the Origen Museum and Nevada State Museum. To learn more about the city in the early days, wander the recreated village of Boomtown 1905.

In the spring and fall seasons, the Las Vegas Springs Preserve has a butterfly habitat. There is also a botanical garden which is incredible to walk through, along with several miles of trails.

Cowabunga Canyon Water Park

Have a family fun day with exciting water slides.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (725) 267-2262 | Website | Hours: Open Summer Only, 11 am – 5 pm, hours vary | Entrance: $49.99, adults, $34.99 under 42” tall 

At Cowabunga Canyon, there are thrilling water slides and attractions made for all ages. It has a huge water slide called Deuces Wild that drops you straight down. Note that it may be a little bit intimidating for those with a fear of heights.

For children, Cowabunga Canyon has a huge splash pad called Buckaroo Bay which could keep them entertained all day. You will also find a wave pool which is fun to hang out in, and a regular pool if you just feel like swimming and relaxing.

If you want to purchase a cabana by the pool, Cowabunga Canyon has those available as well. There are also food and beverage options to keep you hydrated and full throughout the day. 

Mini Grand Prix

Try a friendly go-kart race with the whole family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 259-7000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10 pm Sun-Thu, 10 am – 11 pm Fri & Sat

The Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix is popular because of its outdoor go-kart racing track where even kids can take turns on the track. It also has rides like its dragon roller coaster and fun slide which are perfect for those who are too young to enjoy the more intense rides.

Inside, there are many different arcade games to enjoy which makes for a super fun family night. There is also pizza, drinks, and sandwiches if you get hungry after all of that go-kart racing!

Red Rock Casino

Go bowling, watch movies, and play in the arcade with your family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 797-7777 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | 👉 Book Red Rock Casino on Hotels.com

If visiting Las Vegas as a family, highly consider Red Rock Casino. It’s one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas if you are traveling with children. It’s also a great place to bring kids even if you are not staying there. 

The hotel includes a bowling alley, movie theater, arcade, and even a place to watch your kids while you go exploring for a few hours. There is also a beautiful outdoor pool area, which is fun for everyone.

Many hotels on the Las Vegas Strip offer a few amenities like these for children, but Red Rock Casino has it all, making it the best place to stay for families.

Downtown Summerlin

Browse the shops and be a part of the awesome local Las Vegas community.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 832-1000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu, 10 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat, 11 am – 7 pm Sun

Summerlin is one of the best Las Vegas suburbs. Its downtown outdoor shopping mall is within a short walking distance of Red Rock Casino.

There is a great community feeling in downtown Summerlin because there are always activities for everyone to enjoy. While you may just want to browse the shops or grab a bite to eat at some of its incredible restaurants, there is so much more to do. 

Every Saturday, it hosts a farmers market where you can get fresh produce and browse other local goods. During October last year, it hosted a haunted parade. There was music, locals dressed up and put on a show, and the turnout was incredible.

Downtown Summerlin did the same thing during the holidays, and it was free to attend for all. There’s also a fun ice skating rink during the holidays, complete with music and hot chocolate for if you get cold.

Las Vegas Ballpark

Experience fun outdoor activities for every season.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 943-7200 | Website 

The Las Vegas Ballpark is home to the Las Vegas Aviators baseball team and it has family-friendly activities for all seasons. Plus, it’s within walking distance of Red Rock Hotel, downtown Summerlin, and other attractions.

During baseball season, the main attraction is the Las Vegas Aviators baseball games, which are fun to attend for everyone. In the baseball stadium, there is even a pool that everyone can use and it overlooks the ballpark with incredible views. 

During the summertime, the Las Vegas Ballpark hosts $2 movie nights where you can sit on the grass in the ballpark and watch a movie under the stars on the big screen. Last winter, it even had a winter wonderland where you could go ice skating, find your way through a light maze, and take photos with Santa!

Gilcrease Orchard

Pick your own fruits and vegetables.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Phone: (702) 409-0655 | Hours: 7 am – 10 am Tue, Thu, Sat | Entrance: Free

Gilcrease Orchard is 60 acres of farming land with different fruits and vegetables ready to pick. The entrance to the orchard is free, so you only pay for what you pick. It also has pre-picked produce if you want fresh vegetables without doing all the work to find them. 

This orchard makes for a great date or family day in Las Vegas because you get to bond while choosing the best-looking produce. During the fall, Gilcrease Orchard also has a huge pumpkin patch, plus freshly-made apple cider and hay mazes. 

Mount Charleston

Try horseback riding, sleigh rides, and incredible picnics on Mount Charleston.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 872-5486 | Website  

Mount Charleston is a great place to escape the heat of the Las Vegas desert. During the summer seasons, it is around 30 degrees cooler than the rest of Las Vegas, and during the winter, there is almost always snow on the mountains.

The snow that piles makes for a bunch of exciting winter activities like skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in Lee Canyon. Sleigh rides are often offered in the winter, which is a very unique and cute experience.

If you go to Mt. Charleston during a season where there is not a lot of snow, you can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and picnics with unparalleled scenery. 

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Thanks for reading — now you know what to do in Las Vegas! I hope you gained some insight into the many fun things to do in Las Vegas. See my guide to the best local parks next.