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Fun Things to do in Las Vegas
Nevada
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city guide
Las Vegas, city, seat (1909) of Clark county, southeastern Nevada, U.S. The only major city in the American West to have been founded in the 20th century, Las Vegas grew from a tiny, desert-bound railroad service centre at the outset of the 20th century to the countrys fastest-growing metropolis at centurys end. This transformationmade possible by a combination of shrewd entrepreneurship, access to water, an extensive transportation network, and permissive state lawshas created the city now often known simply as Vegas, a place of vast casinos, elaborate hotels, and spectacular entertainment venues that attracts masses of visitors from throughout the world.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November. While you'll find plenty of travel deals throughout the year, the spring and fall shoulder seasons offer the most moderate weather.
Fun city facts and activities
- Las Vegas. Just mentioning the name of the city conjures a mental picture of bright neon lights, huge hotels and countless casinos. Frequently referred to as Sin City, movies like The Hangover have done little to repeal its reputation of being a 24-hour epicenter of indulgence. There are tons of great things to do in Veas, and Nevada's biggest city draws an average of more than 36 million visitors every year. Most think of The Strip as being Vegas, however, this is just one small part.
The name Las Vegas is Spanish for 'the meadows' as once upon a time, it was abundant with wild grasses, plus there's a natural desert spring, making it a key location for the journey westward. This was also instrumental when construction began in 1931 on the Hoover Dam, the same year Nevada legalized casino gambling. Vegas served as both a home to many workers and an opportunity to blow off steam and spend their hard-earned. Consequently, there's a lot more history behind the self-proclaimed Entertainment Capital of the World than you probably realize.
The best things to do in Las Vegas run the gamut from seriously entertaining to awesomely educational. Looking for culture? Spend a day exploring Las Vegas best attractions and museums. Hungry? You've come to the right place because there are tons of amazing restaurants in Las Vegas that highlight the city's rich and diverse culinary landscape, not to mention some of the worlds most amazing buffets. Take in a night of world-class entertainment or spend your time lazing in the sun at a glam resort pool. Vegas is great for family, friends or even a quality solo trip.
Neighborhoods to explore
- Downtown. When it comes to crime, Downtown Las Vegas gets an F grade
Naked City. Many people plan to walk the Las Vegas strip, and you're more than welcome to do so
East Las Vegas / Whitney
West Las Vegas
Meadows Village
Huntridge
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- The sheer number of best restaurants in Las Vegas is increasing almost exponentially as more and more massive hotel and resort complexes are constructed. Of course this means more choice for the consumer... it also means that restaurants open and close and get refurbished and change resident chefs on a seemingly daily basis. Consequently, it's a culinary minefield out there. Oh, the agony of choice.
Las Vegas Offbeat activities
Free or cheap things to do
1. Thrill Rides at the Stratosphere: Experience the ultimate rush of adrenaline at the top of the Stratosphere Tower, with rides like Big Shot, Insanity and X-Scream.
2. Pinball Hall of Fame: If you're a fan of pinball, this is the place for you. Located in downtown Las Vegas, the Pinball Hall of Fame boasts over 200 machines from the 50s to the 90s.
3. Neon Museum: Get a glimpse of the city's colorful past at the Neon Museum, where you can take a tour and explore some of Vegas' most iconic signs.
4. High Roller Ferris Wheel: Take in spectacular views of the Las Vegas Strip from the world's tallest observation wheel.
5. Fly LINQ Zipline: Take a thrilling ride on the Fly LINQ Zipline, where you can soar 12 stories above the Las Vegas Strip.
6. Vegas Indoor Skyd
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. Adventuredome
Circus Circuss 5-acre indoor theme park offers excitement for all ages. The littlest ones can go around the carousel or watch free clown shows, while speed-seekers will want to check out the extreme vertical drops of El Loco and the world's only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster Canyon Blaster. There's also lazer tag, 4D theater features, roller skating, and classic arcade and midway games.
2. Shark Reef Aquarium
See tropical fish, giant sea turtles, alligators, sting rays, exotic scenery and, of course, sharks up close and personal at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. The giant aquarium is a wonderland for all types of marine life. The walk-through tunnel that cuts through the 1.3-million-gallon shark exhibit and the interactive touch pool are must-sees. Marine-loving kids (and adults) will love this one.
3. Discovery Children's Museum
One of the largest kid-friendly attractions in Las Vegas, the Discovery Children's Museum encourages families to explore three floors (and 58,000 square feet) of art, science, and culture exhibits. Interactive areas encourage kids to solve mysteries, create their own inventions, and dress up in costume while a rotating exhibit area features shows from other museums. Active kids can also climb, crawl, and slide on various structures. There's a lot here to get their creative juices flowing and burn energy to boot.
4. The High Roller
For a unique, eye-popping view of The Strip, head to The High Roller at the Linq Promenade. Kids will feel on top of the world taking a spin one of the world's tallest observation wheels. The leisurely 30 minute ride gives you a 360 degree view of the area from 550 feet up. Nighttime offers the most dramatic scenery.
5. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden
There is, perhaps, no more awe-inspiring attraction in Las Vegas than this centerpiece at the Bellagio. A team of master horticulturalists construct beautiful scenes with trees, flowers, plants, and structural elements. The display changes seasonally as well as during major holidays. Kids will be impressed, and it's a great backdrop for the perfect family photo.
6. Siegfried and Roys Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
This animal sanctuary at The Mirage Hotel and Casino features big cats and bottlenose dolphins. It's a calm, lush oasis away from all the hubbub of The Strip. While there are no set shows, kids can watch dolphins play together and do tricks with the trainers. An underwater viewing area offers a closer look. Wander through the gardens and you'll see (and learn about) lions, tigers, and panthers.
7. Gondola rides at the Venetian
One of the most recognizable attractions in the city can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors as guests are serenaded by authentic gondoliers while lazily floating by faux Italian facades and architecture. It's a romantic option for couples, but the four-person boats are great for families too.
8. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
For some active outdoor fun, Red Rock Canyonabout 20 miles west of the Las Vegas Stripcan't be beat. The stunning scenery can be viewed by car or bike from the 13-mile scenic drive. Along the way, there are several hikes where the kids can get some exercise and enjoy the desert landscape.
9. Lion Habitat Ranch
The Lion Habitat Ranch might be one of Las Vegass best-kept secrets. The owners of this lion sanctuary aim to educate the public while caring for the big cats. The well-trained, caring crew creates a peaceful environment where guests can feed the lions, take behind-the-scenes tours and even enjoy a meal with the surrounding animals.
10. Downtown Container Park
The Fremont East neighborhood keeps getting hipper but also more family-friendly. A shopping center made of shipping containers, the area boasts an interactive playground with a 33-foot-tall slide and giant mechanical praying mantis that shoots fire in rhythm to accompanying music. Regular programming includes yoga, live music, movie nights and sunset drum circles.
City data and FAQ
Is Las Vegas worth visiting?
Las Vegas is worth visiting, so come here on Vacation but don't leave on Probation.Take in a show and nice dinner, You will get an eye full, dowtown Fremont , if you gamble, know that the house usually wins, you can get free play at most hotels if you sign up for a players card , and as long as your gambling drinks are on the house, a dollar per drink is fine for a tip, a five or more the waitress will love and she'll keep them coming, be safe.
Rebecca Graham Lives in Las Vegas (1997 Present)
If you have never been there or its been over 15 years since you been there then yes. The place is ever changing. You can tour the sites of the world in one town. Well kinda. If you're going there thinking you'll come back a winner with some extra cash then forget about it. As long as that place is evolving, you can't win a damn cent. You may get a 4 of kind or full house once in a rare while, but anything substantial, pfffft! I lived there 12 years, I hit 2 royal flushes. Thats the extent of it. I wasn't addicted to gambling but I did my share of it. I got to the point where when I hit that 4 of a kind id walk.
Its a good weekend get away. See a show. Go ride go karts. Indoor sky diving. But nothings cheap there anymore. Getting a free drink while gambling is as rare as the royal flush. The buffet prices are so high you almost need a royal flush to cover it.
Mark Buller - Lives in California
We have skydiving, rock climbing, Jeep tours, hiking. Golf. You name it and we have it. So its up to you, yes Vegas has changed and it constantly is changing. You can enjoy yourself, just budget your money. Viva Las Vegas.
Dawna Meneses Lives in Las Vegas
The simple answer? Yes. If you can't find something to do, an excellent restaurant, there may be no hope for you elsewhere. Visit at least once and decide for yourself.
Gary Snyder Lives in Colorado
Do you need a car to visit Las Vegas?
No car needed. They have tram and taxi service. If you plan on going around and seeing everything from the dam to Red Rock Canyon then a car rental would be cheaper then a cab. If you're going for partying then stay on the strip. Walk everywhere. To much traffic to bother driving if you can avoid it dont.
Mark Buller Lives in California
It makes it nice to get around, but you can just take a cab from the airport to your hotel; if you are mid strip then you can easily walk to most attractions north and south. It is a mile from Flamingo Rd (mid Strip) to Tropicana Blvd Mandalay Bay and MGM. There is an elevated train that goes near the strip. Another short shuttle train runs from Mandalay Bay to Excalibur I believe.
Miguel - Lives in Oklahoma City, OK (1982 Present)
Depends on how much time you have and what you enjoy doing. My Cuz and her husband frequent LV and never rent one. They stay Downtown and take the Deuce (a double decker bus) to the strip. They hop on and off and when theyre done, they go back to their hotel. There are places on the Strip that rent motorized three wheeled scooters that hold two people, I see them caravanning up to Red Rock Canyon, there are pink jeeps that transport to different areas out of urban LV. If you golf or play tennis, ask the Bell Desk for help with transportation, they can arrange anything and have solid recommendations. Please dont drink and drive, have a good time and come back soon.
Janice Routh Lives in Las Vegas (1960 Present)
No, most people fly in, many take cabs and services like Uber to get around. If you're just there to be on the strip, once you get your bus, cab, hotel shuttle or other transportation to your hotel, you can see most of this trip by walking it.
You can also take the free trams that connect some of the affiliated properties, you can rent a car, rent a motorcycle, take rides on the party beer bikes, there are many ways to get around.You can rent bicycles, scooters, Segway's, or gain just walk.
If you also want to see the Fremont area which can be a lot of fun too, you can take a cab, bus, Uber or other means to get there, some of which are free. Once there you can see everything by walking around including many of the off-Fremont attractions nearby.
Michael Margolies Lived in Las Vegas (1963 1996)
Are two days enough to visit Las Vegas?
Depends on what you want to do. I tell everyone this and not sure if anyone listens, but stop at Las Vegas visitors center on the way in. They have coupons. Discount tickets on shows. They can tell you the best plan for 2 days. For me when I used to visit, two days was always enough. I just went to casino hop and party though.
Mark Buller Lives in California
Las Vegas has many facets to see all that is Las Vegas, Two days is not even close. Las Vegas Downtown, Lake Mead, The Dam, The desert, Mount Charleston, RedRock. Then we can start, pool clubs, night clubs, locals favorites, strip clubs, visit to Nye county brothels. If you want to try fine dining or see a few shows or top tier entertainment. Most people try to see a little Las Vegas and come back to see a bit more. For the rest of their lives. Two days is a good way to start!
Albert Hagan Lived in Las Vegas (1999 2014)
Two days in Vegas is enough depending on how far you must travel to get to Vegas, and how frequently you travel to Vegas. Also, what you plan on doing while you are in Vegas matters. If you frequently travel to Vegas, and have no anticipation of wanting to participate in an activity that might take all day, or keep you up all night and into the after hours, then a 2 day stay might be ok. I prefer a minimum stay of 3 nights, but that is because a minimum of seven hours is required for me to travel to, and then from Vegas to return home.
William Johnson
