Last updated on March 14th, 2024

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, often referred to as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” offers attractions and activities to suit every taste. Here are the top 10 things to see and do in Las Vegas:

1. The Las Vegas Strip: Take a stroll along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, where you’ll find world-famous resorts, dazzling casinos, and vibrant nightlife. Admire the dazzling lights and iconic landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains and the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas.

2. Bellagio Fountains: Witness the mesmerizing Bellagio Fountains, a choreographed water show set to music and lights, which takes place in front of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino multiple times each evening.

3. Fremont Street Experience: Experience the electric atmosphere of the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall in downtown Las Vegas featuring a dazzling light show, live entertainment and a variety of street performers.

4. High Roller Observation Wheel: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline from the High Roller Observation Wheel, the world’s tallest observation wheel located at The LINQ Promenade. The 30-minute ride offers panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding desert landscape.

5. The Venetian Resort: Step into the Venetian Resort and take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, surrounded by stunning Venetian architecture and indoor shopping canals reminiscent of Venice, Italy. Plus visit the Sphere at the Venetian, added at the back of the resort in 2023.

6. The Mirage Volcano: Witness the explosive spectacle of the Mirage Volcano, a free outdoor show featuring fire, music and special effects erupting nightly in front of the Mirage Hotel and Casino.

7. Neon Museum: Explore the Neon Museum, home to a vast collection of iconic Las Vegas neon signs dating back to the city’s earliest days. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of these vintage signs.

8. The Mob Museum: Dive into the fascinating world of organized crime at The Mob Museum, located in downtown Las Vegas. Explore interactive exhibits, artifacts and immersive experiences that delve into the history of the mob and its impact on American society.

9. Cirque du Soleil Shows: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking performances of Cirque du Soleil, with a variety of shows available throughout Las Vegas. From acrobatics and music to stunning visual effects, these world-renowned productions offer unforgettable entertainment experiences.

10. Day Trip to the Grand Canyon: Embark on a day trip to the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, located just a few hours’ drive from Las Vegas. Choose from helicopter tours, scenic drives or guided hikes to explore this breathtaking geological marvel.

With its diverse array of attractions and entertainment options, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking excitement, adventure, and entertainment.

The Strip, Visit Las Vegas

The Strip, Visit Las Vegas

Top 5 Buffets in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is renowned for its extravagant buffets, offering a wide array of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. Here are five of the top buffets in the city:

1. Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace: This buffet is famous for its vast selection of high-quality dishes from around the world, including seafood, sushi, prime rib and decadent desserts. The upscale atmosphere and live cooking stations add to the dining experience.

2. Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan: Wicked Spoon offers a sophisticated and modern take on the traditional buffet concept. Guests can enjoy innovative and globally inspired dishes served in individual portions, ensuring freshness and quality.

3. The Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas: Known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet offerings, The Buffet at Wynn features a wide range of cuisines, including Asian, Italian, and American favorites. Highlights include fresh seafood, made-to-order sushi, and an extensive dessert selection.

4. Bellagio Buffet at Bellagio Las Vegas: The Bellagio Buffet is renowned for its upscale setting and impressive selection of dishes. Highlights include gourmet cuisine, seasonal specialties and an extravagant dessert station featuring handcrafted pastries and sweets.

5. A.Y.C.E Buffet: The A.YC.E. Buffet at the Palms offers reasonable pricing for a wide variety of dishes from around the world, with seven unique food stations to choose from. You can enjoy everything from fresh seafood, to the carving station and made-to-order pasta dishes.

These buffets offer a luxurious dining experience and showcase the culinary diversity that Las Vegas has to offer.

Mirage Volcano & Treasure Island, Visit Las Vegas

Mirage Volcano & Treasure Island

Amusement Rides

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant entertainment options, including thrilling amusement rides. Here are some of the best rides in Las Vegas:

1. The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York: This roller coaster takes riders on a wild ride through the iconic skyline of New York City. With inversions, drops and high-speed turns, it offers an exhilarating experience right on the Las Vegas Strip.

2. SkyJump at the Stratosphere: What’s more exhilarating than seeing the city from 108 floors above the world-famous Las Vegas Strip? Jumping off it. Strap in and face your fear as you jump off the side of the Tower at The STRAT.

3. X-Scream at the Stratosphere: A roller coaster ride like no other, X-Scream teeter totters you over the edge of the Tower from 866 feet high, propelling riders head first 27 feet over the edge of the tower. After being shot over the edge, passengers are dangled weightlessly above the Las Vegas Strip before being pulled back and propelled again.

4. Big Shot at the Stratosphere: Strap into the Big Shot, where you’ll be shot 160 feet in the air at 45 miles per hour in a matter of seconds – all while overlooking the majestic Las Vegas Valley. Big Shot catapults 16 riders from the 921-foot-high platform up the tower’s mast to a height of 1,081 feet, and then down again.

5. Adventuredome at Circus Circus: This indoor amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a 4D theater. It’s a great option for families looking for fun and excitement away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip.

6. The High Roller at the LINQ: Soar 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the largest observation wheel in North America. Get ready to be wowed when you take a spin 550 feet above the Strip. With sweeping 360-degree views, the wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one revolution and features 28 spacious cabins.

7. Exotics Racing: Turn your dreams to reality but driving the sports car of your choice for a few laps.

27th Floor Fountain View, Bellagio, Visit Las Vegas

27th Floor Fountain View, Bellagio

Luxor Hotel, Visit Las Vegas

Luxor Hotel

When are Las Vegas Hotel Rates Lowest?

Las Vegas and Reno are both driven by the free market in setting room rates. Hotel rates go way up if the town is full and then a few nights later hotels might totally reverse their rates. The fastest way to find out when Las Vegas hotel rates are lowest is to use the booking calendar at the Bellagio’s web site, where it shows the daily variation in rates.

After you least expensive time to visit, you can pick any hotel to enjoy these reduced rates. You will find a wide range of options. Unfortunately, nearly all hotels have decided to mislead you on their actual full price by adding a resort fee applied after their advertised daily rate.

Visit Las Vegas – Hotels

Here are some options at the high, medium and low end:

Bellagio – go all in with a 1,020 square feet fountain view suite on the top floors of the Bellagio. Comes with 3 bathrooms, private VIP elevator access and a fabulous fountain view.

Flamingo Las Vegas – Floor to ceiling windows create a sense of spaciousness and provide great views over the extensive palm trees, pools and wildlife located behind the hotel.

The Golden Nugget – A popular and inexpensive spot to enjoy the historic downtown Fremont section of Vegas.

Extravagant Las Vegas Hotel Suites

Las Vegas is renowned for its opulent and extravagant hotel suites, offering guests the ultimate in luxury and extravagance. Here are some of the most outrageous hotel suites in Las Vegas:

1. The Palms Casino Resort – The Empathy Suite: Designed by renowned artist Damien Hirst, The Empathy Suite at The Palms Casino Resort is one of the most expensive hotel suites in the world, with rates reaching tens of thousands of dollars per night. This two-story suite features original artwork by Hirst, including a shark suspended in formaldehyde, along with a private cantilevered pool overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.

2. Caesars Palace – Cleopatra’s Barge: Cleopatra’s Barge at Caesars Palace offers a lavish and indulgent experience inspired by ancient Egypt. This luxurious suite features richly decorated interiors with marble accents, plush furnishings and a private balcony overlooking the resort’s iconic Garden of the Gods pool oasis.

3. The Venetian Resort – The Presidential Suite: The Presidential Suite at The Venetian Resort is a sprawling luxury retreat spanning over 6,000 square feet. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip from the suite’s expansive terrace, along with a private elevator, personal butler service, and lavish amenities throughout.

4. Wynn Las Vegas – The Fairway Villa: The Fairway Villa at Wynn Las Vegas offers a sophisticated and refined escape with stunning views of the resort’s golf course and the Las Vegas skyline. This opulent suite features custom-designed furnishings, a private massage room and a spacious outdoor terrace with a plunge pool and fire pit.

5. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas – The Chelsea Penthouse: The Chelsea Penthouse at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a stylish and contemporary retreat with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. Guests can enjoy expansive living spaces, a private screening room and a state-of-the-art kitchen, along with access to the resort’s exclusive amenities and VIP services.

These hotel suites epitomize the extravagance and luxury that Las Vegas is known for, offering guests an unparalleled experience of indulgence and sophistication in the heart of the desert.

New York, New York, Visit Las Vegas

New York, New York, Visit Las Vegas

MGM Grand, Visit Las Vegas

MGM Grand

Las Vegas Shows

Las Vegas is renowned for its world-class entertainment, featuring some of the most spectacular shows in the world. Here are some of the top shows to see in Las Vegas, but this list is always changing. For a current and more extensive list of options, check Vegas.com:

1. Cirque du Soleil: With multiple shows running concurrently on the Las Vegas Strip, Cirque du Soleil offers breathtaking performances that blend acrobatics, music, and visual effects. Popular shows include “O” at Bellagio, “KA” at MGM Grand and “Mystère” at Treasure Island.

2. Absinthe: This edgy and provocative variety show combines circus acts, burlesque, comedy and cabaret in an intimate Spiegeltent setting at Caesars Palace. Expect jaw-dropping feats and irreverent humor in this adults-only production.

3. Le Rêve – The Dream: Presented at Wynn Las Vegas, Le Rêve – The Dream is a mesmerizing aquatic show featuring synchronized swimming, aerial acrobatics and dazzling special effects. The theater-in-the-round setting provides an immersive experience for audiences.

4. Blue Man Group: Combining music, comedy and multimedia theatrics, the Blue Man Group at Luxor Hotel and Casino offers a unique and interactive entertainment experience. Join the enigmatic blue-skinned performers for an unforgettable journey of sound and spectacle.

5. The Colosseum: The Colosseum at Caesars Palace is located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Experience a spectacular show in what’s deemed as Home of the Greatest Entertainers in the World.

6. Penn & Teller: Experience the magic and comedy of Penn & Teller at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino. This dynamic duo blends illusion with humor and skepticism in a show that’s equal parts mind-bending and entertaining.

7. The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil: Celebrate the music of The Beatles in this electrifying tribute show at The Mirage. Featuring acrobatics, dance and aerial performances set to the iconic songs of the legendary band, The Beatles LOVE is a must-see for fans of the Fab Four.

8. Jabbawockeez: Known for their innovative dance moves and signature white masks, the Jabbawockeez perform a high-energy hip-hop dance show at MGM Grand. With dynamic choreography and impressive visuals, this award-winning production captivates audiences of all ages.

9. David Copperfield: Prepare to be amazed by the magic of David Copperfield at the MGM Grand. As one of the most renowned illusionists in the world, Copperfield dazzles audiences with mind-bending tricks, illusions and storytelling.

10. Terry Fator: The Voice of Entertainment: Enjoy an evening of comedy and ventriloquism with Terry Fator at The Mirage. Fator’s impressive vocal skills and comedic timing, combined with a cast of lovable puppet characters, make for a delightful and entertaining show.

11. Mystère by Cirque du Soleil: Experience the wonder of Mystère, one of the original Cirque du Soleil productions, at Treasure Island. Featuring mesmerizing acrobatics, colorful costumes and live music, Mystère is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its beauty and artistry.

12. Professional Sports: Watch the NHL Vegas Golden Knights and the NFL Las Vegas Raiders play at new stadiums along the Strip.

These top shows in Las Vegas offer a diverse range of entertainment options, from dazzling spectacles and mind-bending illusions to comedic performances and musical extravaganzas. Whether you’re a fan of acrobatics, magic or live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the entertainment capital of the world.

Forum Shops, Visit Las Vegas

Forum Shops

Treasure Island, Las Vegas 2009

Treasure Island

Best Malls in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is home to several impressive shopping destinations, offering a diverse range of retail experiences from luxury boutiques to outlet stores. Here are some of the best malls in Las Vegas:

1. The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace: Known for its opulent decor and high-end shops, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is a must-visit for luxury shopping. Featuring iconic brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, along with fine dining options and entertainment venues, this upscale mall offers a truly indulgent shopping experience.

2. The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian and The Palazzo: Inspired by the canals of Venice, The Grand Canal Shoppes offer a unique shopping experience with cobblestone walkways, gondola rides and an impressive selection of shops and restaurants. From designer boutiques to artisanal crafts and gourmet food stores, there’s something for everyone at this Italian-themed shopping destination.

3. Fashion Show Mall: With over 250 stores and restaurants, Fashion Show Mall is one of the largest shopping centers on the Las Vegas Strip. Highlights include department stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus, as well as popular retailers such as Apple, Sephora, and Zara. Visitors can also enjoy fashion shows and live entertainment on the mall’s iconic runway.

4. The Shops at Crystals: Located adjacent to Aria Resort & Casino, The Shops at Crystals is a luxury shopping destination featuring high-end designer brands and upscale dining options. From luxury fashion houses like Louis Vuitton and Prada to fine jewelry and art galleries, this sleek and modern mall caters to discerning shoppers seeking the latest in fashion and design.

5. Las Vegas North Premium Outlets: For bargain hunters, Las Vegas North Premium Outlets offers discounted prices on designer and name-brand merchandise. With over 150 outlet stores, including Nike, Coach and Michael Kors, shoppers can find deals on clothing, accessories and home goods in a convenient outdoor setting.

6. Town Square Las Vegas: Offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Town Square Las Vegas is a family-friendly outdoor mall located just south of the Strip. With over 120 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including an AMC movie theater and children’s play area, this bustling shopping center caters to both locals and tourists alike.

These top malls in Las Vegas provide a wide range of shopping experiences, from luxury brands and designer boutiques to outlet stores and family-friendly entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or unbeatable deals, Las Vegas has a mall to suit every style and budget.

The Venetian, Visit Las Vegas

The Venetian, Visit Las Vegas

Caesar's Palace, Visit Las Vegas

Caesar’s Palace

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Las Vegas for Free

Las Vegas offers plenty of free attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy without spending a dime. Here are 10 things to see and do for free in Las Vegas:

1. Fountains of Bellagio: Marvel at the mesmerizing water show at the Fountains of Bellagio, set to music and lights, which takes place multiple times each day in front of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

2. The Volcano at The Mirage: Experience the explosive spectacle of The Mirage Volcano, a free outdoor show featuring fire, music and special effects, erupting nightly in front of The Mirage Hotel and Casino.

3. Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace: Witness the mythical tale of Atlantis come to life in this animatronic show, featuring fire, water and special effects, which takes place regularly in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

4. The Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo Las Vegas: Explore the lush tropical gardens and wildlife habitat at Flamingo Las Vegas, home to exotic birds, fish, and turtles, as well as Chilean flamingos and other rescued animals.

5. Fremont Street Experience: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall in downtown Las Vegas featuring a dazzling light show, live entertainment and a variety of street performers.

6. Streetmosphere at The Venetian and The Palazzo: Experience the charm of Venice in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip with Streetmosphere, a series of live performances including singing gondoliers, living statues, and strolling musicians.

7. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: Admire the stunning seasonal displays at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, featuring thousands of flowers, plants and trees arranged in elaborate and whimsical designs.

8. The Park and The Park Theater: Take a leisurely stroll through The Park, an outdoor promenade located between New York-New York and Park MGM, featuring sculptures, water features and dining options. Additionally, The Park Theater occasionally hosts free outdoor concerts and events.

9. Downtown Container Park: Explore the unique shops, restaurants, and art installations at Downtown Container Park, an open-air shopping center made entirely of repurposed shipping containers. Enjoy live entertainment and family-friendly activities in this vibrant downtown destination.

10. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign: Take a photo op at the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, located at the south end of the Las Vegas Strip. This famous landmark is a must-see for visitors looking to capture the essence of Las Vegas.

These free attractions and activities offer visitors the opportunity to experience the excitement and entertainment of Las Vegas without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring the Strip, downtown Las Vegas or the surrounding area, there’s plenty to see and do for free in this vibrant city.

More Things to See and Do in Las Vegas

In Town: Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, 4 golf courses, Las Vegas Natural History Museum, Burlesque Hall of Fame, Springs Preserve, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, Discovery Children’s Museum, Pinball Hall of Fame, Shelby American, Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum, Count’s Kustoms

Near Las Vegas: Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon Skywalk, Grand Canyon South Rim, Valley of Fire, Death Valley, Zion, Bryce Canyon

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas

The Las Vegas weather is an arid desert climate that is very hot in the summer and cool in the winter. Spring and fall are perfect times to visit Las Vegas, as you can avoid some of the most extreme heat and enjoy the pleasant evenings. With all the large air conditioned facilities, you won’t have trouble escaping the heat in the height of summer, though.

Getting to Las Vegas

Visitors arrive in Las Vegas at McCarran International Airport. The Las Vegas Strip is only about a 10 minute cab or Uber ride from the airport, so cabbing a better option than hotel shuttle vans or local transit.

Public Transit

Las Vegas Monorail: The Las Vegas Monorail runs a block east of the Strip from the MGM Grand in the south to the Stratosphere (STRAT) in the north. Walking the Strip will take you over 1.5 hours, so the monorail is a great option to move about the Strip.

The Deuce: The Deuce is a city bus that travels from the Downtown – Fremont Street area to the south end on the Strip and back again. There are stops along the way near most of the major casinos, and at the Town Square Mall and Las Vegas Discount Mall. Buy tickets on the bus or Tap & Go with their app.

Free Monorails: On the west side of the strip, there are 3 very short, free monorails. The Aria Express joins the Bellagio to the Park MGM. A monorail joins Mandalay Bay to the Excalibur. Another one joins Treasure Island to the Mirage.

Visit Las Vegas – Background

The history of Las Vegas is linked to the legalization of gambling in the state of Nevada in 1931. The city took off in the 1950s with influences from organized crime and wealthy investors, however its greatest expansion has been in the 2000s. In 2014 there were more than 2 million people in urban Las Vegas. The catch phrase for the city is “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”. The hotels are strung along South Las Vegas Blvd in what has become known as the Strip. Even if you don’t gamble, you can have a great time with a wide selection of hotels, shows and buffets. Combine your stay in Vegas with a dessert excursion to the Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion or Death Valley and you’ve created a perfect jam packed vacation get away!

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