Las Vegas, often dubbed as the entertainment capital of the world, is a city that never sleeps. While gambling is a top attraction that invites millions of visitors every year, there are other things one wouldn’t want to miss – and just one trip can’t be enough to explore this hotspot. These are the things you don’t want to miss in Las Vegas.
Key Takeaways
- The Strip is the heart of Las Vegas, featuring iconic hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues.
- The Bellagio Fountains offer a mesmerizing water show that is a must-see for any visitor.
- Fremont Street Experience provides a unique blend of old-school Vegas charm and modern entertainment.
- The Venetian transports visitors to Italy with its stunning architecture and gondola rides.
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a natural escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
1. The Strip
Strut your stuff down the famous Las Vegas Boulevard, AKA The Strip, and feast your eyes on some of our city’s most legendary hotspots. You’ll be treated to a visual feast of world-class resorts, casinos, and iconic landmarks like the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. Don’t forget your camera – you’re in for a snapshot extravaganza!
No vacationer can have a real Las Vegas travel experience without passing through the Strip, which runs from the south of Mandalay Bay to the north of Stratosphere. Sometimes getting around the Strip can be overwhelming, but with so much to offer – the hustle is worth it! Stretching 4.2 miles, the Strip features 30 casinos, more than 150,000 hotel rooms, and over 12 shopping malls along the way.
Pro Tip: Tipping is common around this place, so have some money set aside for that.
2. Bellagio Fountains
Awe-Inspiring Spectacle
The Bellagio Fountains are an absolute must-see when you’re in Las Vegas. This dazzling spectacle of water, music, and light unfolds every half hour, creating a mesmerizing symphony that will leave you spellbound. The fountains dance in perfect harmony to the tunes, providing a captivating break from the city’s non-stop excitement.
Show Schedule
You can catch this iconic water fountain show Monday to Friday, every 30 minutes from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and every 15 minutes from 7:00 PM to midnight. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays, it runs every 30 minutes from noon to 7 PM, and every 15 minutes from 7 PM until midnight.
Design and Inspiration
Inspired by the famous Lake Como of Italy, the Bellagio Hotel features an enchanting man-made lake designed with a water fountain that fires away every 15 minutes. The fountain space extends to 8 ½ acres, and travelers can witness many geysers shooting water high into the air.
Don’t miss out on this captivating performance! It’s one of Las Vegas’s most famous nighttime attractions and a highlight of any visit to the Strip.
3. Fremont Street Experience
Fremont Street is not as spacious and famous as the Strip but its enchantress will make every traveler fall in love with Las Vegas. It is still a popular attraction in Las Vegas – and people flock to the street every night. There is always live music and other forms of entertainment, including actors impersonating celebrities. Here, tourists will also have a chance of exploring the Mob Museum, souvenir shops, and food stands.
4. The Venetian
The Venetian is like stepping into a little piece of Italy right in the heart of Las Vegas. One of the best things to do here is to take a gondola ride. Whether you choose the indoor or outdoor option, it’s a magical experience that transports you straight to Venice. Don’t miss the Streetmosphere at the Grand Canal Shoppes, where performers bring the space to life with music and entertainment. If you’re into shopping, the Grand Canal Shoppes are a must-visit, offering a variety of high-end stores and unique boutiques. And for those who love a good challenge, the Paniq Room Escape Room & Lounge is a thrilling way to spend an afternoon. The Venetian truly offers something for everyone, making it a highlight of any Las Vegas trip.
5. High Roller Observation Wheel
Overview
The High Roller Observation Wheel is located at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and stands at a towering 550 feet. It’s the largest observation wheel in the United States, offering a 30-minute ride with 360-degree views of the beautiful city. The wheel features 28 air-conditioned cabins, each capable of holding up to 40 travelers, making it a must-see attraction when visiting Las Vegas.
Unique Experiences
One of the coolest things about the High Roller is the variety of memorable experiences it offers. You can opt for the Happy Half Hour, which includes an open bar during your ride. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can even book a private cabin.
Best Time to Visit
The most popular time to ride the High Roller is between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm. However, the wheel is a fantastic experience at any time of day, especially during celebrations like Halloween and the Fourth of July when it features a stunning colorful display.
The High Roller is not just a ride; it’s an experience that offers a bird’s eye view of the city and unforgettable memories.
Address and Opening Hours
- Address: 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Opening Hours: Show times vary throughout the year.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the High Roller can accommodate up to 1,128 visitors at the same time? That’s a lot of people enjoying the spectacular views of Las Vegas all at once!
6. The Mob Museum
If you’re fascinated by the darker side of history, then The Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas is a must-visit. This place dives deep into the world of organized crime and its impact on Vegas and the U.S. as a whole. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with The Underground speakeasy open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. It’s housed in a historic courthouse, adding to the authentic vibe.
What to Expect
- Exhibits: From the rise and fall of notorious mobsters to the intricate details of their operations, the exhibits are both educational and thrilling.
- Interactive Displays: Get hands-on with some of the displays, making the experience even more engaging.
- The Underground: Don’t miss the speakeasy bar in the basement, which offers a unique glimpse into the Prohibition era.
Tips for Visiting
- Plan Ahead: Confirm the departure time with your guide in advance if you’re joining a tour.
- Take Your Time: There’s a lot to see, so don’t rush through the exhibits.
- Visit The Underground: It’s open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and offers a different kind of experience.
The Mob Museum combines a history lesson with a fun, immersive experience that you won’t forget.
7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers a stunning escape into nature. This National Conservation Area is perfect for those looking to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. The scenic beauty here is absolutely breathtaking. You can see the canyon from within the city, making it a convenient getaway.
Hikes & Trails
Red Rock Canyon is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails to explore. Some popular hikes include:
- Moenkopi Loop
- Calico Hills
- Calico Tanks
- Turtlehead Peak
- Keystone Thrust
- White Rock – Willow Springs
- Grand Circle Loop
- White Rock Mountain Loop
Each trail offers unique views and challenges, so there’s something for everyone.
Scenic Drive
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the beauty of Red Rock Canyon by taking the 13-mile scenic drive. This loop offers plenty of spots to pull over and take in the views, making it a great option for a leisurely day out.
Rock Climbing
For the more adventurous, Red Rock Canyon is also a popular spot for rock climbing. The unique rock formations provide a variety of climbing opportunities for all skill levels.
Whether you’re into hiking, driving, or climbing, Red Rock Canyon is a must-visit when you’re in Las Vegas. It’s the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Southwest without straying too far from the city.
8. Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is one of the most interesting and beautiful museums Las Vegas has to offer, and it should be on everyone’s Vegas bucket list. Founded in 1996, the museum is dedicated to protecting the city’s arts and cultural enrichment. With displays featuring some of Vegas’s most iconic neon signs, the Neon Museum affords you an opportunity to explore the incredible and quintessential casino signs and art pieces from Vegas’s past.
Neon Boneyard
See more than 250 signs in the museum’s Neon Boneyard, from the 1930s to now. The Neon Boneyard North Gallery is also available for special events, photoshoots, and weddings.
Travelers’ Center
The museum also features a travelers’ center located inside the former La Concha Motel lobby, providing a unique glimpse into the history of Las Vegas.
If you want to see the ones that are still in action, combine your Neon Museum entry ticket with a helicopter flight over the dazzling Las Vegas Strip.
Address and Opening Hours
- Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Opening Hours: Open 3:00-11:00 PM daily. Tour times vary depending on the time of year.
9. Hoover Dam
Overview
The Hoover Dam is an absolute must-see if you’re in the Las Vegas area. This massive, 726-foot-high concrete dam straddles the border of Nevada and Arizona, holding back water from the Colorado River to create Lake Mead. It’s not just an engineering marvel; it’s a National Historic Landmark. The Hoover Dam Experience with a power plant tour is a journey through history that lets you into the secrets of this emblematic structure.
What to See
On this trip, you’ll be able to see three other attractions: Boulder City, Lake Mead, and the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. The guided tour is a fantastic way to explore this impressive feat of construction and even find yourself in two places at once, as it sits right on the Nevada-Arizona border.
Tours and Tickets
There are several ways to experience the Hoover Dam:
- Mini Hoover Dam Bus & Helicopter Tour: $154
- Mini Hoover Dam Tour: $65
- Lake Mead Cruise & Hoover Dam Tour: $109
- Hoover Dam SUV Tour: $123
Visiting the Hoover Dam is a classic can’t-miss Vegas vacation experience. Whether you take a bus, helicopter, or SUV tour, you’re in for an awe-inspiring adventure.
10. The Mirage Volcano
Spectacular Nightly Shows
Don’t miss the chance to witness the infamous Las Vegas Strip volcano at the Mirage before it bids farewell! This volcano sculpture in front of The Mirage puts on a nightly extravaganza, complete with music and fiery eruptions every hour between 8 pm and 11 pm PST. This is a must-see experience that adds a touch of sizzle to your Las Vegas adventure, so make sure to catch it before it’s gone!
Taller Explosions and More Fireballs
This volcano features taller explosions and more fireballs than in previous years, as well as a soundtrack from The Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart and Indian tabla sensation Zakir Hussain. The Mirage Volcano – our iconic front yard – has more bang than ever, thanks to these enhancements.
A Must-See Before It’s Gone
But fear not, I’ve got the lowdown on the top must-see gems you gotta check out before they roll out the next big thing, giving you some serious FOMO! So, let’s dive into what you can’t afford to skip while you’re here!
Conclusion
Las Vegas is a city that never ceases to amaze, offering a plethora of attractions that cater to every kind of traveler. From the dazzling lights of the Strip to the hidden gems off the beaten path, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or just looking to relax and take in the sights, Vegas has got you covered. One trip is never enough to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the endless wonders of Las Vegas. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a thing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling?
There are many things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, including visiting The Strip, watching the Bellagio Fountains, exploring the Fremont Street Experience, and more.
Is The Strip only about casinos and gambling?
No, The Strip offers a variety of attractions including world-class shows, fine dining, shopping, and iconic landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains and the High Roller Observation Wheel.
What can I see at the Fremont Street Experience?
The Fremont Street Experience features a massive LED canopy, live entertainment, street performers, and a zipline that runs the length of the street.
Is the Bellagio Fountains show free?
Yes, the Bellagio Fountains show is free and runs multiple times a day, offering a spectacular display of water, music, and light.
What is special about the Venetian in Las Vegas?
The Venetian is known for its stunning architecture that mimics Venice, complete with canals, gondola rides, and an array of shops and restaurants.
Can you visit the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas?
Yes, the Hoover Dam is a popular day trip from Las Vegas, located about 30 miles southeast of the city. Guided tours are available.
What is the best time to visit Red Rock Canyon?
The best time to visit Red Rock Canyon is during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid the extreme summer heat.
Is the Neon Museum worth visiting?
Yes, the Neon Museum is worth visiting, especially for those interested in the history of Las Vegas. It features a collection of iconic neon signs from old casinos and other businesses.
