Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, offering a mix of glitz, glamour, and excitement. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been before, there’s always something new to discover in Sin City.
From amazing shows and great food to outdoor adventures and cool museums, Las Vegas has it all. Here’s our list of the top 30 things to do in Las Vegas that will make your trip really fun and memorable.
Key Takeaways
- Wide range of attractions for all interests
- Famous for entertainment, dining, and shopping
- Iconic landmarks on and off the Strip
- Outdoor adventures in nearby natural areas
- Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families
On the Strip Attractions
1. Watch the Bellagio Fountains
The Bellagio Fountains are a must-see attraction in Las Vegas. These dancing waters put on a spectacular show set to music, creating a mesmerizing display that’s free to watch.
The fountains perform every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes at night, making it easy to catch a show no matter when you visit. The water jets go up to 460 feet high, creating a stunning sight against the Las Vegas skyline.
2. Take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel
For a great view of Las Vegas, hop on the High Roller Observation Wheel. It’s the world’s tallest observation wheel at 550 feet, offering amazing 360-degree views of the city and desert around it.
The 30-minute ride gives you plenty of time to see everything and take cool photos. Each pod is big and has air conditioning, so you’ll be comfortable no matter the weather. For extra fun, you can book a Happy Half Hour pod, which includes drinks during your ride.
3. Explore the Fremont Street Experience
Visit the heart of old Las Vegas at the Fremont Street Experience. This walking area is covered by a huge LED canopy that puts on amazing light shows every night. You’ll find old-school casinos, street performers, and a fun atmosphere that feels like vintage Vegas.
The Viva Vision light show on the 1,500-foot-long canopy is really cool, with 12.5 million LED lights and awesome sound. You can even ride the SlotZilla zip line, which sends you flying above the crowds on Fremont Street.
4. Visit the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a unique place that keeps the colorful history of Las Vegas alive. This outdoor museum, also called the “Neon Boneyard,” has a collection of famous neon signs from old casinos and businesses.
Take a tour to learn about the stories behind these glowing signs and how they made Las Vegas famous. You can visit during the day or night, and each time gives you a different view of the signs. The night tour is especially cool because you get to see some of the restored signs lit up in all their neon glory.
If you want to find more hidden gems in Las Vegas, check out some of the best thrift stores in Las Vegas for unique souvenirs and vintage stuff.
5. Experience a Cirque du Soleil show
You can’t visit Las Vegas without seeing a Cirque du Soleil show. These world-famous performances mix acrobatics, music, and amazing visuals to create unforgettable experiences.
There are several shows to choose from, like “O” at the Bellagio and “Mystère” at Treasure Island, so you’re sure to find one you’ll love. Each show has its own theme and style, from the water-based “O” to the Beatles-inspired “LOVE” at The Mirage.
The performers are incredibly athletic and artistic, and the shows use cool technology and awesome set designs that will blow your mind.
After the show, treat yourself to some of the best Italian food in Las Vegas to finish off your night of fun.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
6. Explore the Mob Museum
Learn about the fascinating world of organized crime at the Mob Museum. This interactive museum tells the story of how the mob affected American history and Las Vegas itself. You’ll see real artifacts, cool multimedia presentations, and there’s even a speakeasy in the basement.
The museum is in an old courthouse where real mob hearings happened, which makes it even more interesting. Don’t miss the Crime Lab and Firearm Training Simulator where you can try out forensic science and law enforcement techniques yourself.
7. Visit the National Atomic Testing Museum
Learn about Nevada’s nuclear history at the National Atomic Testing Museum. This museum, which is part of the Smithsonian, shows you all about the Nevada Test Site and how it was important during the Cold War. You can see cool exhibits and artifacts that explain the science and politics beh
ind nuclear testing. There’s even a simulated atomic bomb test where you can experience what it might have looked and sounded like. You’ll also find exhibits on radiation detection equipment, atomic age pop culture, and how nuclear technology affects us today.
After exploring the museum, you might want to relax with a comforting bowl of Pho. Check out some of the best pho restaurants in Las Vegas for a tasty and warming meal.
8. Tour the Shelby Heritage Center
The Shelby Heritage Center in Las Vegas stands as a gleaming tribute to the legacy of Carroll Shelby and the iconic American muscle cars that he helped bring to life. For enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, this museum offers a deep dive into automotive history with its impressive collection of Shelby vehicles, including classic Mustangs and the fierce AC Cobra.
The center not only displays these high-performance beauties but also provides a glimpse into the manufacturing process through guided tours, where one can witness where modern iterations of these legendary cars are crafted. The fact that there’s no entrance fee for the self-guided tour makes it an accessible attraction for all, though the paid VIP tour is recommended for those wanting a comprehensive experience including a behind-the-scenes look at the production facility.
Beyond the roar of engines and the shine of meticulously maintained vehicles, the Shelby Heritage Center encapsulates the spirit of innovation that Carroll Shelby embodied. The museum’s narrative extends from the racetracks where these cars proved their mettle to the cultural impact they’ve had on automotive enthusiasts around the world.
9. Explore the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Step back in time and learn about the tragic story of the Titanic at this cool exhibition. It’s in the Luxor Hotel and has over 250 real artifacts that were recovered from the wreck site.
You’ll walk through recreated rooms of the ship and can even touch a real iceberg, which helps you understand what happened better. The exhibition also tells personal stories of passengers and crew members, which makes the history feel more real. One of the coolest parts is the replica of the Grand Staircase, which shows you how fancy the ship was.
After your visit, you might want to try some modern food. Check out some of the trendiest restaurants in Las Vegas to continue your night out.
10. Visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a fun place for families to learn. It has exhibits on dinosaurs, sea life, and ancient Egypt, so there’s something interesting for everyone.
The museum lets you touch and interact with things, which makes learning fun for kids and grown-ups. Some of the coolest things to see are a 35-foot T-Rex, a walk-through copy of King Tut’s tomb, and a marine life gallery with a 3,000-gallon shark tank. The museum also has special events and educational programs throughout the year, so it’s worth visiting more than once.
Outdoor Adventures
11. Hike in Red Rock Canyon
Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon is very different from the bright lights of the city. This protected area has beautiful red rock formations, scenic drives, and hiking trails for all skill levels.
It’s perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the beauty of the Mojave Desert. There’s a 13-mile scenic drive that takes you to many trailheads and viewpoints.
Popular hikes include the easy Calico Tanks trail, which leads to a natural water pool with views of Las Vegas, and the more challenging Ice Box Canyon trail, which has waterfalls in some seasons.
After your hike, you might be hungry for some flavorful food. Why not try some of the best tacos in Las Vegas to refuel?
12. Visit the Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is an amazing feat of engineering that’s worth the short trip from Las Vegas. Take a tour to learn about how the dam was built and why it’s so important for providing power and water to the Southwest.
The views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River from the top of the dam are breathtaking. You can choose between the Powerplant Tour, which shows you the generators, or the longer Dam Tour, which takes you deep inside the structure.
Don’t forget to walk across the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for an awesome view of the dam and the surrounding area.
13. Explore Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is a hidden gem about an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. It’s known for its bright red sandstone formations and ancient rock carvings, making it a great place for taking photos.
You can hike through the weird-looking landscape and might see animals like bighorn sheep and desert tortoises. The park has several short hikes that show off its unique rocks, including the popular Fire Wave trail and the White Domes loop.
The visitor center has interesting exhibits about the park’s history, geology, and ecology, which help you understand the unique environment you’re exploring.
After your outdoor adventure, you might be ready for a big meal. Check out some of the best burgers in Las Vegas to satisfy your hunger.
14. Enjoy water activities at Lake Mead
Lake Mead, the biggest reservoir in the United States, offers lots of water activities just a short drive from Las Vegas. You can rent boats, jet skis, or kayaks to explore the clear blue water.
Fishing, swimming, and picnicking are also popular along the shore. The lake has several marinas where you can rent equipment or join guided tours. For something special, you could take a dinner cruise on a paddle wheeler, which gives you beautiful views of the lake and surrounding desert as the sun goes down.
If you’re looking for cheaper things to do in Las Vegas, think about checking out some of the best thrift stores in Las Vegas for unique finds and souvenirs.
Conclusion
Las Vegas really does have something for everyone, from the excitement of the Strip to the natural beauty of the desert around it. Whether you want thrilling entertainment, great food, outdoor adventures, or just a place to relax, you’ll find it all in this unique city. With so many different things to do, your trip to Las Vegas is sure to be unforgettable. Remember to take breaks, drink plenty of water, and most importantly, have fun exploring all that Sin City has to offer!