how to visit las vegas

19 Secret Las Vegas Tips for First Timers (How to Visit Vegas Like A Pro)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: February 23, 2020  - Last updated: December 1, 2022

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If you’re planning your first trip to Las Vegas, you should know that it definitely won’t be your last. The energetic atmosphere and the freedom to let loose becomes an addiction.

But if you’re visiting Las Vegas for the first time, know that it will be stimulation overload!

There is so much to see, do, taste, try, drink and play that it can quickly become overwhelming.

But don’t waste your time on the most overrated places in Vegas (trust me).

There are certain things to know before going to Vegas that will help you make the most of your trip.

It can be as wild or as low key as you want it to be. 

If you’ve never been to Las Vegas, for some people it’s hard to understand the appeal.

While drinkin’ and gamblin’ are favorite activities for many, there’s so much more to experience about this energetically wild city.

It’s even the p erfect place to spend a honeymoon or a romantic getaway (read more ideas for couples here ).

The lights, the grandiose casinos, the fountain shows, the people watching, rooftop views…like where I’m going with this? Vegas is a city like no other.

It’s loud, exuberant and knows how to host a party.

But before you hit the ground running, there are some Las Vegas tips for first timers that will be helpful to keep you going for your inaugural trip.

Here’s how to make your first time to Vegas the best trip ever.

This post contains some affiliate links, i meaning I may make a small commission if you make a purchase, at absolutely no extra cost to you.

General Las Vegas Tips for First Timers

Before we get to my recommendations about where to stay in Vegas for your first time and the must-do activities, there are a few things to know before you navigate Sin City. 

Everything is Bigger and Further Away than it Seems

The scale of the strip is so deceiving. Because the hotels and casinos are ultra large, it makes everything appear closer than it actually is.

Honestly, I’ve been to Vegas about half a dozen times, and it still gets me.

This is important to know for planning purposes, especially if you’re travelling with a group and want to coordinate where to meet up.

You might think, “Oh we’re at New York New York and we’ll meet you at the Paris in a few minutes.”

Even though it’s pretty much across the street, it’s probably going to take you a minimum of 20 minutes to get over there. 

For your very first visit to Vegas, I recommend booking a 3 hour tour to show you around the must-see places along the Strip.

With this tour , you can choose whichever time of day you prefer and your guide will bring you to the iconic places, but also hidden gems and secret spots (like the secret pizza shop and happy hour beer for 50 cents)!

Read Next: 5 Day Las Vegas Itinerary: A Mix of Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Be Prepared to Walk A Lot

This also means you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. Again, no matter how many times I visit, I never get used to the amount of walking I do.

However, this does wonders for my competitive spirit when I want to track how many steps I can get on my fitness tracker (I use the Garmin Venu) in a day! Hint – it was over 30,000 one time.

The Strip (Las Vegas Boulevard) is over 3 miles long, in addition to the vast spaces within the hotels and casinos. 

Consequently, you should bring your comfiest shoes that can handle this amount of walking. But don’t just bring one pair.

Bring a few different pairs (different styles) that you can rotate through to give your feet a break as well. Doing this is a huge life saver.

For me, I always bring a trusty pair of daytime sneakers , a pair of cushy birkenstock-style sandals and a nice pair of comfy wedges to wear at dinner. 

Use Public Transit

The good news is that there are buses, trams and monorails that you can use as a low cost to cut down your walking time.

I recommended purchasing a three-day pass for the Deuce bus which is a double-decker city bus that cruises from the south end of the Strip up to Fremont.

This way you can hop on and hop off when you need to. 

Another new option for transportation is to purchase bus fares through the Uber app! Just open the app and you can compare fares from the different buses and purchase your tickets through the app. 

You could also try the monorail to go north to south on the east side of the Strip. If you’re staying at the Linq, Flamingo, Paris or the MGM Grand, the monorail runs right behind these hotels.

You can purchase one day or multi-day passes here . 

There are also a few free trams to use on the other side of the strip that go in between the hotels owned under the same brand.

Should You Rent a Car in Vegas? 

This depends on what you’re planning to do. In my opinion, I would avoid renting a car for your first trip to Vegas.

If you’re only in town for the weekend or a few days, there will be plenty of things on the Strip and Fremont street that will keep you busy.

And if you’re just sticking to this part of town, you really don’t need the hassle of renting a car. Most hotels charge for parking now and traffic is always busy. 

Read Next: 32 Essential Things to Do In Vegas Besides Gambling

General Tips for Walking the Strip

I will never forget my very first trip to Vegas when I remember asking a staff person at the hotel if I could bring my can of beer outside the casino.

She smiled and replied “this is Vegas, honey, you can bring your drink anywhere.” 

I mean, I knew you could drink anywhere, but as a first timer in Vegas, it was so cool to be able to walk around and bring your open drink anywhere!

Shopping with a glass of wine? Highly recommend!

Now, all that being said, if you want to save a little money on Vegas Vacation, purchase drinks at the CVS or corner stores instead of grabbing one at the casino bar. 

Also, avoid anyone who approaches you on the Strip wanting to offer you free shows or discounts.

This is usually a timeshare presentation that will take an entire afternoon.

The same goes for people in the casinos. They usually approach couples and ask if it’s your first time in Vegas, how long you’re staying, etc.

It’s best to just avoid these people!

And there will be all kinds of characters and interesting people on the Strip.

Anything from impersonators, people dressed up in costumes to buskers and everything in between.

Definitely enjoy and have some fun, but know that if you take a photo with them you will be expected to tip them.

And if you’re planning to visit the famous Las Vegas sign (which is a must do as a first timer), there will usually be someone there who offers to take the photo for you so that you don’t need to take a selfie.

Again, if you let them do this you will be expected to tip.

>> Read more in my full guide to scams and tourist traps to avoid in Les Vegas (and how to not get ripped off).

Tips for First Time Gamblers in Vegas

If it’s your first time in Las Vegas, walking into a casino and choosing where to gamble might be a little intimidating. The hotel casinos are massive.

They’re full of people, lights and sounds and there are no windows so it’s easy to lose your bearings. 

That being said, you don’t need to consider yourself much of a gambler to enjoy some games and have a little casino fun while you’re in Vegas.

Vegas Pro Tip: Order yourself a copy of the American Casino Guide which is the most extensive and trusted resource about all things gambling in Vegas. PLUS, there’s over 150 coupons and basically pays for itself after you use one or two (buffets, shows and match play coupons, meaning you’re paid out 2-1 on your bet).

How to Choose What to Play

I think the most important tip when it comes to gambling on your first trip to Vegas is that the house always has the advantage and therefore you should only gamble what you are comfortable losing. 

I’m no expert, but generally speaking, table games provide you with a higher chance of winning.

Especially games like Blackjack, where you can incorporate a slight amount of strategy that you control.

CASINO TIP: You can book a gaming lesson with a local guide! On this 2.5 hour your, your guide will teach you how to play the most popular table games – roulette, craps and blackjack and share tips on how to get freebies.

For example, if you want to learn how to play blackjack, the dealer can let you know the suggested move based on basic strategy.

Just don’t ask them how much you should bet! 

Slot machines typically have terrible odds, but that doesn’t stop people from playing them, myself included!

They’re entertaining and there are a variety of games to choose from. You can still find penny slots in most of the casinos, you just have to look for them. 

Penny slots can be deceiving though, so be careful. Depending on how many lines you bet, each ‘bet’ can be a few dollars.

So if you’re new to gambling in Vegas and just want to try it out for your first time, scan the machines and look for the ones with a max bet of $0.50 or lower.

This will make your money stretch a little longer! Also, usually when you bet the maximum you have a higher chance of winning.

At the very least, you will never win the max payout if you’re not max betting.

Slot machines at budget friendly casino hotels, Fremont Street and off-strip casinos are known to have “looser” slots. They need to work hard to earn your business.

By contrast, higher end hotel and luxury casinos will have a much lower payout on slot machines, since most people are aleready drawn in to visit.

Branded slot machines usually have the lowest payout and worst return to play.

They’re used to draw people in because they’re flashy and entertaining.

Take Advantage of Free Drinks!

And yes, drinks are still free when you gamble in Vegas ! Whether you’re sitting at a slot machine or table, servers will come around and offer you a drink.

This includes beer, cocktails, water, etc. Just make sure you tip your server a minimum of one or 2 dollars per drink so that they keep coming around!

You can also tip more than this to ensure they come back several more times.

Always Cash Out Before Leaving the Casino

All slot machines in Las Vegas use the ‘ticket in, ticket out’ system now. When you find a machine, insert your bill and when you decide to ‘cash out’ you will get a slip of paper with a bar code and how much it’s valid for.

If it’s your first time in Vegas, I highly recommend going to find a cashier and cashing out your vouchers before you leave every casino.

You’ll be jumping from casino to casino and you might not a chance to go back to the one that you have a voucher for.

Make sure you don’t leave any unclaimed money behind!

Bring Your ID

And it’s a good idea to always have your ID on you. If you look a day under 30, most security guards at the casinos will ask for your ID and you might not be able to enter if you don’t have it on you.

Best Casinos in Vegas for First Timers 

First, I recommend visiting as many casinos as you’d like. It’s fun to visit the different themed casinos and see how they vary.

Enjoy roaming around even if you don’t plan on gambling. Caesar’s Palace and the Bellagio are showy and grandiose.

I like the inside of the Paris hotel, and the New York New York has a fun urban vibe to it. 

I like the Cromwell casino as it’s a little smaller than most and has cheap drinks if you’re not gambling and just want to watch a group hollering around a hot Craps table. 

Any of the casinos on Fremont Street (old Las Vegas) are also good, and most people think they pay out a little more often.

And if it’s your first time in Vegas you have to stop at Binion’s (on Fremont) and take a photo with a stack of a million dollars.

You get a free 5×7 print out of your photo too!

And as a Las Vegas first timer, even if you’re not a gambler, it’s still fun to pull the old school handles on the slots!

Most of them are all digital nowadays (where you push the button to bet), but you can still find a few rows of the analogue machines where you pull the handle. 

Even more, there are still a few casinos left that have machines that payout in coins!

You can find a few of these kicking around at the D on Fremont, El Cortez and Slots A Fun next to Circus Circus.

Where to Stay in Vegas for Your First Time

There are SO many hotels to choose from.

Since you will likely be visiting as many places as you can on the Strip, I recommend choosing a hotel based on location.

If it’s your first time in Vegas, as soon as you arrive on the strip you’ll want to start exploring immediately!

I recommend staying in the middle of the strip for easiest access to check out as many hotels and casinos as possible.

I find it’s so much more convenient to stay somewhere in the middle of the strip instead of one end or the other.

My two favorite hotels I recommend staying in if it’s your first time is either the Flamingo Hotel or Planet Hollywood .

They’re centrally located in the middle of the strip, are moderately priced and are close to a variety of dining options.

You can read my full comparison between the two hotels here .

You can use the map below to compare hotel prices at the same time.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Vegas on a Budget: Where to Eat, Stay and Play and Spend Less

Lower Cost Hotels in the Middle of the Strip

I like staying at the Flamingo because it’s central and a little less expensive than other hotels in the middle of the Strip.

It’s close to the Linq, Paris and across from Caesars which all have great dining options.

And if you’re visiting in the summer, the Flamingo has the best pool in Las Vegas.

In my opinion, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas for first timers. 

Read my full review (+tips) for staying at the Flamingo.

Almost right next door is the LINQ , which is a great value option, since it’s very centrally located. The Linq shopping area is lots of fun, and this is where the High Roller observation wheel is located too. 

If you’re visiting Vegas on a romantic getaway or maybe your honeymoon, the Paris Hotel is an excellent choice.

The romantic French theme is perfect for couples. You can also request a room with a view of the Bellagio fountains!

I would stay away from the cheapest Strip hotels like Circus Circus or the Tropicana. They’re each located at extreme ends of the Strip.

If you’re a Vegas first timer, staying at these hotels would be more of a pain than what it’s worth to save a few bucks.

That being said, if you just want the cheapest room possible and don’t mind making use of the bus to go up and down the Strip, you can definitely find deals at these places. 

Hotel Choices if You Want to Spend a Little More

Caesar’s Palace is a classic choice. It’s famous, there’s lots of action here and it’s smack dab in the middle of the Strip. 

The Bellagio is also a classic and timeless choice if you want something more luxurious. This is the hotel that plays the famous water fountain show synonymous with images of Vegas.

• Read next: These are the 8 Best Vegas Hotels for First Timers

Las Vegas Hotel Tips for First Timers

To score cheaper rooms in Vegas, visit mid-week if you can. I like to book trips from Sunday to Wednesday to avoid paying weekend premiums.

Room costs in Vegas are also mostly driven by events.

There are hundreds of conventions held here every year. This is why I highly recommend you monitor hotel calendars and pricing for random sales or price spikes. 

Hotels in Las Vegas charge ‘resort fees.’ I think this is just a polite way of getting away with Vegas tax.

You will have to factor in a daily resort fee when you book your accommodations.

This will always be a separate fee that you pay the hotel and not when you book online.

It seems that the fees go up every year, and now they range anywhere from $20-50 per night. The resort fees cover things like WiFi and access to hotel amenities like the pool and fitness center.

HOTEL TIP: If you want to avoid resort fees, stay at a hotel on Fremont Street. The Four Queens does not charge a resort fee.

You Can Ask for an Upgrade

You can always ask for an upgrade when you check into your hotel.

This is usually based on availability and whether the hotel is full or not. Politely ask if there are any room upgrades available.

Let them know you’re celebrating something special (birthday, anniversary, getting married, etc). Or especially since it’s your first time in Vegas, that’s also an occasion to celebrate. 

Some people combine this with the $20 trick. Where you wedge a 20 dollar bill (or more) in between your credit card and ID when you hand it to the person checking you in. 

Good to know – you don’t actually need to hide the cash you’re trying to get an upgrade with. Just place it on the counter and ask nicely.

All tips in Vegas must be disclosed, so there’s no need to hide your bribe.

TRAVEL TIP – Peak check-in time at hotels in Las Vegas is usually between 3-7pm. The lineups can be extremely long. Try to arrive a bit early and get checked in.

Your room likely won’t be ready, but you can leave your bags secured with the hotel and ask them to text you when your room is ready.

Then you can hit the casino, go sightseeing, anything you want.

You don’t want to waste any time waiting around on your first trip to Vegas!

How to Get Comps and Fees Waived

No matter what hotel you stay at, sign up for the free loyalty club or player’s card.

Use this card every time you gamble and when you eat the the restaurants owned by the hotels or the same brand of hotels.

MGM properties are generally the easiest to build up rewards with as there are many hotels and status tiers – The Mirage and New York New York are my favorite.

Once you pick a brand, start building loyalty by gambling, dining and shopping at these properties.

Building up status will help you get comps for future trips, but you can also score bonuses on your current stay.

The night before you checkout, stop in at your hotel’s host office and mention that you’ve had a great stay and wanted to know if you have wagered enough to get some of the resort fees or parking fees waived.

Usually the hosts have the ability to check and determined how much you’ve spent on the property to see if you qualify for discounts.

Don’t be afraid to mention it’s your first time visiting Las Vegas and that you’re excited to return.

Attractions That Are Must Do in Vegas for First Timers

As far as Sin City activities go, there’s definitely a lot more to do than just drink and gamble.

Here are some free and paid attractions that you shouldn’t miss on your first Vegas trip. 

Free Las Vegas Activities

Watch the bellagio fountains .

Watching the fountains dance along to the music never gets old no matter how many times you see it.

They are absolutely mesmerizing and should not be missed! They run every 15 minutes at night. Find a nice spot to watch and enjoy for free!

Visit the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Snapping a pic at the most famous sign in America is a must! It’s located at the very south end of the Strip and there’s a small parking lot to pull into, or you can take the bus there.

There’s usually a lineup of people waiting their turn, but it goes decently fast.

And there will usually be someone offering to take your photo, so make sure you tip them afterwards. 

Head to Fremont Street

A lot of Vegas first timers ask if Fremont Street is worth it and I say absolutely yes! This is the ‘original’ Vegas Strip and was the place to be in the 1950s and 60s.

They’ve done a great job of reviving it but still keeping with the old school, vintage theme.

It’s a pedestrian only street, and not very big, so it’s fun to walk around, check out the old casinos, people watch (there are some crazies here) and listen to free concerts at the outdoor stage. 

Unwind in the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Inside the Bellagio hotel is an incredible themed garden display which changes four times a year with the seasons.

The stunning exhibit comes to life under a 50-foot glass ceiling, so if you’re craving a little sunlight after being in a dark casino, this is the place to be.

If you’re after some nice photo spots in Las Vegas, the Bellagio gardens would be perfect. 

Walk the Strip at Night

Ok, this seems obvious, but the Strip comes to life at night, and you should do this every night on your trip.

The lights and colors are wild and crazy and you really don’t know the vast scale of it all until you’re there in the middle of it.

And while you’re at it, be sure to wander into as many hotel casinos and lobbies as you can. They’re all so different and fun to explore.

Paid Las Vegas Activities that Are a Must Do  

Vegas isn’t the cheapest destination to visit, but if you add some of the above free things to do to your Las Vegas itinerary, paying for a few must-do attractions won’t seem that bad. 

Find Some Bird’s Eye Views of the Strip at Night

You must experience views of the Las Vegas Strip from above at night! You can head to the Stratosphere Observation Deck on either the 108 or 109th floors!

To give you an idea about how high this place is, it’s also the tallest freestanding observation tower in the USA!

It will cost you $24 per adult to head up there, but you can save $4 per ticket by purchasing your tickets in advance here . 

The High Roller is the huge observation wheel located in the Linq Promenade and is an awesome way to take in the sights of the Strip. You can go anytime of day, but I recommend visiting at night or sunset.

One full trip around the wheel is about 30 minutes. And even if you’re afraid of heights you don’t really notice it! 

TRAVEL TIP: Book the happy hour experience where your pod includes an open bar. We did this and loved it. The bartenders are extremely fast and efficient, ensuring you get your money’s worth! Buy your tickets here , especially if you’re travelling with a group. 

Or for the ultimate way to view the Strip from above, book a helicopter city lights tour !

It’s not as expensive as you might think, and you get to see all the glitz and glamour from above, including the Bellagio fountains!

Take in a Show

There are so many shows to choose from here, you can’t come to Vegas for your first time and not see a show!

Absinthe is my all-time favorite show in Las Vegas. I would see it 100 times in a row. It’s a raunchy, burlesque circus-style show at Caesars Palace.

Any of the Cirque du Soleil shows are incredible. KA and O are some of the best acrobatics, or if you prefer something musical, try the Beatles or the Michael Jackson Cirque shows.

Choose your Cirque du Soleil show here . 

Or choose a mind-blowing magic show like the famous Penn & Teller or David Copperfield. 

And if you’re visiting for a stag or bachelorette party, some of the more risque shows are super fun. Drag Brunch, Zombie Burlesque, Chippendale’s…anything you want! See some of the best ones here .

You Might Also Like: Legendary Ideas to Help You Plan the Ultimate Las Vegas Bachelorette Party

Enjoy a Romantic Ride on a Gondola in Mini-Venice

Yes, you can pretend you’re in love in Italy with a gondola ride on the canals at the Venetian hotel. They go from outside to inside and go under a couple bridges (if you kiss underneath them it’s good luck)!

Have a Drink Somewhere Fun!

There are so many places to have a drink and people watch! I love sitting outside at Cabo Wabo at Plant Hollywood.

Or put on something fancy and head to the Fountain Room at Mandalay Bay.

Or sit inside a massive chandelier at the Cosmopolitan hotel and order the secret flower drink. 

Book a Tour

One of the best ways to get the most out of your trip to Vegas is to make use of a tour.

After a full day or two of the busy city, you might want to get out of town for a few hours. And you should! There are some incredible places to see surrounding Las Vegas.

Visit Hoover Dam , go hiking in the Valley of Fire or take a boat ride on Lake Mead . 

Visit a Hidden Gem

Some final things to remember before going to vegas.

Visit Vegas with an open mind. If there are a few things you don’t want to miss, make sure you plan for them but then keep your schedule open the rest of the time.

There are so many things going on that will grab your attention, so you may not stick to the schedule you had planned. And that’s OK.

You may not get to see and do everything you wanted on your first trip to Vegas, but I promise you will be back!  

More Las Vegas Posts:

• 32 Little-Known Money Saving Tips for Vegas (so simple)
• 29 Unique Things to Do Off the Strip in Vegas (non-touristy hidden gems)
• 7 Las Vegas Scams to Avoid – How to Not Get Ripped Off in Vegas
• Free Drinks in Vegas: How to Get Them & What to Order (& best places to go in 2022)
• Dreamy Things to Do in Vegas for Couples: Romantic Getaway Guide
• 10 Overrated Things in Las Vegas You Shouldn’t Waste Your Time On (+ better alternatives)
• Best Places to Drink on the Las Vegas Strip: Views, Fancy Drinks & Deals
• Insider’s Guide to Staying at the Flamingo Las Vegas: Tips and Tricks

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Las Vegas Travel Guide

Planning to visit Las Vegas for the first time? Or are you a veteran visitor looking for Las Vegas hotel deals or discount show tickets? If so, then this comprehensive visitor guide to Las Vegas is for you. Come in and use the many tips here to plan your perfect vacation in Sin City.

Las Vegas is the world's premiere gambling destination, synonymous with non-stop casino action, luxurious hotels, championship sporting events, world-class shopping, celebrated restaurants and some of the greatest entertainment in the world. In fact there is so much to do and see, it can easily overwhelm any visitor to the city.

This Las Vegas travel guide is filled with information on enjoying Las Vegas on a budget, getting to/from the airport, getting around, discount show tickets and getting the most out of your vacation. It is the ultimate resource for Vegas and includes such information as:

There are so much to do and see in Las Vegas you can spend a week in the city and not see half of it. This guide will help you plan and choose the things you want to do in Las Vegas .

Are you visiting Vegas during one of the US holidays or simply want to know what's going on during your visit!. Although Las Vegas is buzzing all year long, it helps what's happening in town during your visit. Check here for upcoming events .

Las Vegas welcomes more than 6.5 million convention delegates yearly and hosts the largest trade shows in North America. What are the top Trade Shows in Las Vegas?

Here are a few ways to get around Las Vegas

• Las Vegas Bus
• Free Shuttle
• Walking the Strip

Of course, one main reason to visit Vegas is the shows. If you can't go to Broadway this is the next best place.

• Kids-Friendly Shows
• Top 10 Las Vegas Shows

See what Vegas has to offer besides gambling.

• Vegas Attractions
• Vegas Free Attractions
• Vegas Night Clubs

You can get free stuff from the casinos, like discounts on food, hotel rooms, shows, games and other things.

• Casino Rewards card

Planning to get married in Las Vegas? Check out tips on:

• How to Get Married
• License Requirements
• Marriage Bureau

Las Vegas has a wide selection of restaurants offering really good food. Find out where you can go to eat all you want and pay very little.

Learn to play casino games.

www.VegasHowTo.com

Las Vegas is buzzing all year round. Plan your Vegas trip around one of the major holidays or celebrations and rip some of the added benefits.

Explore the Las Vegas Strip on foot or by riding the Deuce. The most expensive 4 mile stretch in the world.

Are you looking for specific information on Las Vegas? You can search for it or use the sitemap to locate it.

Related Content

The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Whether it’s your first time in Sin City or you’ve been here before, it helps to have a Las Vegas itinerary to make the most of your trip.

Taking the time to plan which activities you’ll do and when will save you lots of aggravation while maximizing your time. To make it even easier, this guide includes some Las Vegas itinerary templates .

While I’ve included ideas for up to a week in Vegas, 2-3 days is enough to see the best attractions. Of course, if you have more time, you can take advantage of even more cool things to do outside Las Vegas . I also recommend getting a Las Vegas city pass and reading our guide on where to stay in Las Vegas   and our guide on how to plan a trip to Las Vegas.

The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Finally, remember that these itineraries are just ideas, and your agenda will depend on your interests and budget. You may prefer to stick to activities on the Strip, or you may want to take a day trip from Las Vegas !

• Las Vegas in a day , a Las Vegas birthday itinerary idea
• 2-day Las Vegas itinerary , the best Las Vegas weekend itinerary
• 3-day Las Vegas itinerary , a Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary idea
• 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , a romantic Las Vegas couples itinerary
• 5-day Las Vegas itinerary , the perfect first-time Vegas itinerary
• 7 days in Las Vegas itinerary , the best Las Vegas family vacation itinerary

Keep reading to see my suggested Las Vegas weekend itinerary and ideas for birthdays, family vacations, and couples getaways in Sin City .

Las Vegas in a day, a Las Vegas birthday itinerary idea

If you’re going to do Las Vegas in a day , you need to be meticulous in your planning. This Las Vegas itinerary is a good place to start because it includes the top Vegas attractions that any visitor to Sin City should see.

First, opt for a ticket for the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will let you easily move from one spot to the next. The bus tour travels along the Strip and Downtown, making 9 stops and arriving every 45 minutes. You can get on and off at your leisure at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign , the STRAT , and other landmarks.

One of those stops is the LINQ Promenade , a haven for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The centerpiece attraction is the High Roller , one of the world’s largest observation wheels.

I also recommend spending your day at some of the best hotels in Las Vegas . For example, The Venetian is home to the Grand Canal Shoppes and Madame Tussauds . It’s also worth seeing the Bellagio Fountains and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas .

Las Vegas in a day itinerary

Begin your day in Las Vegas by visiting the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . You can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  there and take it to the LINQ Promenade .

After exploring this entertainment area, hop back on the bus and get a tour of Downtown Las Vegas . If you’re not interested in downtown, you can walk over to The Venetian and check out Madame Tussauds and the gondola rides at the Grand Canal Shoppes .

Later, head back to the LINQ Promenade and ride the High Roller during sunset. At night, walk to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas , where you’ll have a great view of the Bellagio Fountains . The water show is one of the best free things to do in Vegas , although if you want to see it from the Paris viewing deck, you should reserve a ticket  (It is also included at the Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass  ).

2-day Las Vegas itinerary, the best Las Vegas weekend itinerary

If you’re wondering what to do in Vegas for the weekend , you have plenty of options. A 2-day Las Vegas itinerary allows you to make the most of your trip and even venture a bit outside the city. Weekends are also the best time to plan a birthday or friends’ trip because you can see the main attractions and enjoy the nightlife.

I recommend taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  during the day to see some landmarks and popular resorts. For example, New York-New York has the Big Apple Coaster and Arcade , which is fun for all ages.

Then, you can take the bus downtown and take in the Fremont Street Experience and other attractions in downtown Las Vegas . Shortly before sunset, head to the LINQ Promenade and ride the High Roller . Then, enjoy the city views at night atop the SkyPod at the STRAT .

With another day in Vegas , you can use the first half for a Hoover Dam tour. Then, rest up before hitting a Vegas pool party or doing a bar crawl .

Las Vegas 2-day itinerary

Seeing the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is a rite of passage, so start there. This is also where you can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will transport you around the Strip.

If you like thrill rides, stop at New York-New York ‘s Big Apple Coaster before continuing downtown. Then you can do the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour , one of the best things to do in downtown Las Vegas .

Later on, head to the LINQ Promenade , where you can eat, shop, and ride the High Roller . You can also get awesome views from the 1,149-foot-tall SkyPod at the STRAT . The SkyPod has a late-night bar and lounge, so it’s the perfect place to wrap up a Las Vegas couples itinerary .

A Las Vegas weekend itinerary is ideal because you can experience some daytime activities in Las Vegas before diving into the nightlife.

First, take a break from the Strip with a half-day Hoover Dam tour . When you return to Vegas, take a quick break, then do go to a pool party in Las Vegas. If that’s not your thing, you can take in the scene at Fremont Street , perhaps with a ride on the SlotZilla zip line or a visit to the Mob Museum , one of the best Las Vegas museums .

In the evening, grab cocktails at a swanky lounge or do a bar crawl .

3-day Las Vegas itinerary, a Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary idea

Throwing a bachelor party in Las Vegas is quite the experience and your chance to go all out on activities. A 3-day Las Vegas itinerary gives you enough time to go wild in the city and explore the natural surroundings, too.

You can start this Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary with some go-kart racing at Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix . Then, take a midday break at the LINQ Promenade . In the evening, pre-game at Señor Frogs’ open bar , then go clubbing.

For day 2 of this bachelor/bachelorette itinerary in Las Vegas , take a break from the Strip. I recommend exploring one of the most impressive natural wonders near Vegas, the Grand Canyon . Here, you can hike to some magnificent viewpoints and capture incredible photos.

On the last day, spend the morning doing one of the most popular activities for bachelor/bachelorette parties in Las Vegas, like blasting a few rounds at a shooting range, playing paintball, or even enjoying a morning in the Spa. Then, check out the hottest Vegas pool parties . If you prefer to stay dry, check out the Fremont Street Experience downtown.

To cap off your Las Vegas itinerary , do a bar crawl and enjoy the drinks and music.

Las Vegas 3-day itinerary

Begin your 3-day Las Vegas itinerary with a thrilling go-kart race at Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix . It’s especially fun with friends, and it’s a good way to escape the crowds for a bit.

Once you return to the Boulevard, visit the LINQ Promenade . Here, you can grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, ride the High Roller , and check out the other attractions.

After dark, gear up for an exhilarating evening at Señor Frogs’ open bar , then enjoy yourself in one of the best nightclubs in Las Vegas .

I suggest dedicating the second day of your Las Vegas itinerary to a day trip, like the Grand Canyon . The great thing about Sin City is that it’s close to so many beautiful natural areas. What could be better than visiting this wondrous canyon?

While you’re here, check out some of the best lookout points and hiking spots. You may even want to consider a Grand Canyon helicopter tour to make the event extra special.

If you need some Las Vegas trip ideas for your last day in the city, consider one of the most popular activities for bachelor parties such as paintball, going to a shooting range, or axe throwing. If that is not your thing, your team may enjoy spending the morning at one of the museums in Vegas . The Erotic Heritage Museum is lots of fun and quite fitting for a bachelorette party!

Upon returning to the Strip, suit up for a wild party at some of the best pools in Las Vegas . Or for something quieter, the Fremont Street walking tour is a great alternative.

To round out your night, a Vegas bar crawl is a popular Las Vegas bachelor party idea .

4-day Las Vegas itinerary, a romantic Las Vegas couples itinerary

With a 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , you can take full advantage of the best things to do in Vegas . I still recommend taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  because it’ll take you along the Strip and downtown.

Also, be sure to check out the LINQ Promenade and consider visiting the nearby Springs Preserve . You can round out day 1 with the Bellagio Fountains show, maybe from the Eiffel Tower at Paris Hotel.

After that whirlwind day, you’ll appreciate getting away from the city with a visit to the Grand Canyon . Then, on day 3, spend the morning in one of the best spas in the City. And after that, for a couple’s itinerary in Las Vegas , the Erotic Heritage Museum is a great idea. Another fun thing to do in Las Vegas as a couple is to go to the STRAT SkyPod for after-dinner drinks.

Finally, spend your last day taking a day tour to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, or Zion National Park . You can’t go wrong with either option, as they’re some of the best day trips from Vegas .

Las Vegas 4-day itinerary

For your first day in Sin City, I recommend getting a head-start by visiting the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . Capture a memorable photo, then catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will take you around the Strip.

Then, take a break from the Boulevard and visit one of the top attractions outside Las Vegas , like the  Springs Preserve .

Afterward, return to the Strip or check out downtown Las Vegas with a Fremont Street walking tour . If you want to stay on the Strip, I recommend going to Madame Tussauds at The Venetian and the gondolas at the Grand Canal Shoppes .

Then, stop at the LINQ Promenade and enjoy a sunset ride on the High Roller . At night, walk to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas to watch the Bellagio Fountains . It’s one of the best things to do in Las Vegas at night , although if you want to see it from the Paris viewing deck, you should reserve a ticket .

For one of the most exciting Las Vegas family vacation itineraries , you must visit the Grand Canyon . This national park is absolutely gorgeous, so it’s a wonderful place to visit as a couple, with friends, or with children. Plus, on the way, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , another place worth visiting.

Once you get to Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim, you can see some of the most famous lookout points. One of the best is Hopi Point , where you can get panoramic views of the canyon, but if you want to have a completely different view of the canyon, I can’t recommend enough taking a helicopter tour at Grand Canyon.

After your day trip from the day before, rejuvenate with a massage or treatment at one of Las Vegas’ best spas . Then, use your free time exploring the Strip and doing some couples’ activities in Vegas . A few ideas are the Ethel M Chocolates Factory or the Fremont Street Experience .

In the evening, go to the Erotic Heritage Museum and visit the SkyPod at the STRAT . It’s one of the coolest rooftop bars in Las Vegas and the perfect way to end day 3 of this Las Vegas itinerary .

To end your 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , take a day tour to a nearby attraction. There are so many awesome day trips from Las Vegas , so it can be hard to choose. I recommend going to Zion National Park or visiting Antelope Canyon and neighboring Horseshoe Bend .

If you visit Zion National Park , you’re in for a treat because this place is full of beautiful hikes, overlooks, and natural structures. The hike at Angels Landing is a must-do, and you shouldn’t miss the iconic views at Court of the Patriarchs and the Virgin River .

The other day trip I recommend is Antelope Canyon , a gorgeous slot canyon with red, water-carved curves. Bring your camera, because when the light filters through the canyon walls, it’s one of the most ethereal scenes.

Plus, Antelope Canyon is very close to Horseshoe Bend , so you can visit both in one day. This imposing meander on the Colorado River is 984 feet tall, so you can imagine the views from here. It’s certainly worth adding to your Las Vegas trip itinerary !

5-day Las Vegas itinerary, the perfect first-time Vegas itinerary

Five days is ideal for a first-time Vegas itinerary . This way, you can see the best attractions on and off the Strip and have plenty of time to take in all the sights.

Start with a tour on the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will take you down the Boulevard and through downtown. You’ll be able to hit the most popular spots like the LINQ Promenade , the Grand Canal Shoppes , and the Mob Museum . Later in the day, take the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour and finish with a Bellagio Fountains show.

The next day, spend some time perusing the best museums in Las Vegas , like Madame Tussauds and the Neon Museum . In the evening, check out the FlyLINQ Zipline and the Big Bus Night Tour . You can’t also leave the city without trying your luck in one of the  best casinos in Las Vegas.

I recommend using the last few days of your Las Vegas itinerary to take a multi-day tour. I like this one , which goes to Antelope Canyon , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , and Monument Valley .

Las Vegas 5-day itinerary

As a newbie to Sin City, you must see the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . There, you can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  and ride down the Strip. The bus will take you into the downtown district, where you can visit the Mob Museum , one of the top museums in Las Vegas .

Downtown Vegas is lots of fun and should definitely be on a first-time Vegas itinerary . You can learn more about this area by taking the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour .

Afterward, hop back on the bus and go to The Venetian to see the Grand Canal Shoppes . Even if you just walk around there, you’ll be amazed by the architectural replicas of Italian landmarks. Since the LINQ Promenade is a short walk away, I recommend heading there and riding the High Roller observation wheel. It’s a great place to watch the sunset or see the Bellagio Fountains water show.

The great thing about a 5-day Las Vegas itinerary is that it gives you more time to explore and take in all the activities. Since you’ll have the time, I suggest visiting Madame Tussauds and the Neon Museum. These two Las Vegas museums offer unique exhibits you’ll only find in Sin City! Plus, they’re popular kid-friendly attractions in Vegas , so they’re perfect for adding to a Las Vegas family itinerary .

During the latter part of the day, check out the FlyLINQ Zipline at LINQ Promenade , and soar over this bustling entertainment hub. You can round out the evening with a Big Bus Night Tour to see the Strip’s most famous landmarks. For example, I recommend stopping by some of the most popular casinos in Las Vegas.

After exploring the best attractions on Las Vegas Strip , it’s time to start your multi-day trip. This 3-day tour begins with a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon.

Zion National Park is a gorgeous area with narrow canyons, mountains, natural pools, and wildlife. During your tour, you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities to capture the majestic cliffs and iconic sights like Weeping Rock . You can also embark on one of the park’s top hikes, such as the Emerald Pools Trail , which features waterfalls and turquoise lagoons.

Afterward, you’ll go to Bryce Canyon , a national park characterized by hoodoos or natural sandstone spires. These red-orange structures create some magnificent arches and bridges, as well as Bryce Amphitheater . After exploring the beauty of this park, you’ll wrap up day 3 of this Las Vegas itinerary at a Bryce Canyon campsite.

Day 4 of this Vegas itinerary begins with an early morning drive past Lake Powell , a scenic reservoir along the Colorado River. Along the way, your tour guide will take you to Antelope Canyon , one of our favorite day trips from Las Vegas .

Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s paradise, although anyone can appreciate the water-carved slot canyon and its striated walls. You’ll want to have your camera ready to capture the filtered light beams coming through the canyon.

The next part of your journey takes you to Monument Valley , a vast desert landscape. You’ll board a 4×4 Jeep and ride through the Navajo lands while learning about the history of this spectacular place. Finally, you’ll have the memorable experience of camping under the stars.

The last stop on this 5-day Las Vegas itinerary is the beautiful Grand Canyon . You’ll start with a visit to an authentic Navajo Trading Post and have the option to do a helicopter flight over the canyon. I highly recommend adding this to your Las Vegas itinerary . The Grand Canyon is one of the best road trips from Las Vegas , and a Grand Canyon heli-tour is an unforgettable experience.

If you don’t take the flight, you can take a hike along the canyon rim and hear from a knowledgeable guide about the area’s history and geology. Get acquainted with this massive natural wonder and witness the views from its famous lookout points. At the end of the day, your tour group will head back to Vegas.

7 days in Las Vegas itinerary, the best Las Vegas family vacation itinerary

If you have the time and budget for a 7-day Las Vegas itinerary , there is plenty of fun to be had! You’ll be able to maximize your trip and see the best of the Strip, downtown Las Vegas, and the surrounding areas.

To start, check out the most popular Vegas attractions and sights by taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus . Be sure to check out iconic landmarks like the LINQ Promenade and Madame Tussauds . In the evening, go to the   Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas  to watch the mesmerizing Bellagio Fountains show.

Begin day 2 at a Las Vegas waterpark , then visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum . Later, get an adrenaline rush by riding the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York and soaring along the FlyLINQ Zipline .

For days 3-5, take a multi-day tour like this one that goes to Antelope Canyon , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , and Monument Valley .

When you return to the city, get some chill time at one of the best Las Vegas pools . Then, visit the nearby Red Rock Canyon and get your nature fix.

Finally, end your ultimate Las Vegas itinerary with a stop at the Valley of Fire , one of the most beautiful places off the Vegas Strip .

Las Vegas 7-day itinerary

For your first day in Las Vegas , get acquainted with the city by seeing some of the top attractions on the Strip . It’s always nice to start with a visit to the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . From there, catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  and check out the downtown district.

You can take the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour   or walk over to The Venetian , one of the best Vegas hotels . The resort is home to Madame Tussaud’s wax museum, a fun place to go in Las Vegas with kids . The hotel also has the Grand Canal Shoppes , which mimic Venice, Italy, and its historical landmarks.

Later, stop at the LINQ Promenade to ride the High Roller , perhaps at sunset. After dusk, go to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas and watch the famous Bellagio Fountains show. You’ll have to reserve a ticket for the viewing deck in advance.

If you plan on making this a Las Vegas family vacation itinerary , begin your second day at a Las Vegas waterpark . Mandalay Bay Beach at Mandalay Bay and Splash Zone at Circus Circus are right on the Strip. Or you can visit a nearby water park, like Lake Las Vegas or Cowabunga Bay .

Another fun family activity is going to a Las Vegas museum , like the Natural History Museum . After some chill time, you can experience some thrills on the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York and the FlyLINQ Zipline .

Since you have 7 days for your Las Vegas travel itinerary , you have enough time to take a multi-day trip. My top recommendation is this 3-day tour , which begins with a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon.

The beautiful mountain peaks, hiking trails, and canyon structures of Zion National Park will take your breath away. You’ll have lots of chances to capture lovely photos during your tour, as well as explore popular hikes like the Emerald Pools Trail .

After spending a few hours in Zion, you’ll go to nearby Bryce Canyon . This national park is known for its sandstone hoodoos, which create intricate shapes, arches, and natural bridges. Your tour guide will point out famous landmarks like the Bryce Amphitheater , and you’ll spend the night camping in the impressive national park.

Your Las Vegas travel itinerary continues with a drive past Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon . This is one of the most popular day trips from Vegas , and you’ll quickly see why. The curvaceous, striped walls of this slot canyon will mesmerize you, especially when the light filters through the walls.

Once you take in the unique environment of Antelope Canyon, you’ll continue the trip to Monument Valley . Better yet, you’ll see this incredible desert dreamscape while riding in a 4×4 Jeep. A Navajo guide will tell you all about Monument Valley’s history, and then you’ll spend the evening at a starlit campsite.

Day 5 of the Las Vegas itinerary will take you to a traditional Navajo Trading Post, where you can peruse the offerings. Then, you may opt for a Grand Canyon helicopter tour , something I wholeheartedly recommend.

If you don’t do the flight, you can witness the majestic magnitude of the Grand Canyon on foot. Visiting this natural wonder is one of the best road trips from Las Vegas , so take your time hiking along the canyon’s rim and admiring its viewpoints. You’ll have some free time to take it all in before heading back to Sin City.

Now that you’re back in the city, why not recharge with a visit to one of the best pools in Las Vegas ? Chilling out by the water is one of the best things to do in Vegas during the day when the beating sun is at its most intense.

Some of the most popular pools belong to Las Vegas’ top hotels , so consider booking a room there. For example, the Garden of the Gods Pool at Caesars Palace is an elegant European oasis, while Encore Beach Club at The Wynn is perfect for a Las Vegas bachelorette itinerary .

Once you feel refreshed, you may want to visit nearby Red Rock Canyon . This state park offers beautiful views and attractions, many of which you can see along the Scenic Drive . For a more exciting adventure, take an e-bike tour along the route.

Red Rock Canyon also has family-friendly hikes like the Petroglyph Wall , Lost Creek Canyon , and Calico Hills . The park is about 20 minutes from the Strip, so you can easily fit it into a 7-day Las Vegas itinerary .

For the last day of your Las Vegas itinerary , I suggest visiting the Valley of Fire . Some people find it hard to believe that this incredible park is just 45 minutes from Vegas. Here, the landscape is defined by bright red Aztec sandstone that forms natural arches, peaks, and canyons.

Besides the fiery sandstone, the Valley of Fire is home to colorful landscapes like the Rainbow Vista and Pastel Canyon . You’ll also find impressive natural structures like Arch Rock , Elephant Rock , and the Beehives .

Be sure to travel along the park’s Scenic Drive, also known as Mouse’s Tank Road . I also recommend doing a hike or two to see the Fire Wave and the ancient pictographs . I guarantee you won’t regret ending your Las Vegas trip itinerary here!

How many days do you need in Las Vegas?

It’s hard to see all of Las Vegas in a day , but if you’re short on time, 2 days is enough. Ideally, I recommend a 3-day itinerary for Las Vegas so you can see all the top attractions.

I hope this gave you some trip ideas for Las Vegas ! Leave me a comment below to tell me your favorite Las Vegas travel itinerary , or to ask me any questions you have. Enjoy your trip to Sin City!

Ascen Aynat

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Las vegas travel guides, book your vacation, planning a trip to las vegas: the ultimate 3-day itinerary.

Nothing can be more daunting than too many choices, and when you're planning a trip to Vegas, you'll definitely feel some analysis paralysis. But don't sweat it! Your Vegas experts are on the case, and we have planning a Vegas trip down to a science. So pack those bags and get ready for one hell of a good time with our ultimate three-day Las Vegas itinerary.

Las Vegas Trip: Day One

Whether you're only in town for one day or it's the first out of a three-day Vegas trip, you'll want to make the most out of these 24 hours. There’s certainly not a lack of things to do in Las Vegas , but deciding what to do is intimidating. Since we know exactly what you should be checking off your Sin City bucket list, your 24-hour dance with Lady Luck should go a little something like this:

A Vegas Trip Starts with Brunch

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so a visit to one of the best brunch spots in Las Vegas should be high on your to-do list. We’ll point you to The Cosmopolitan . We don’t have a bias, but we do love this one for its massive variety of delicious food and its central Strip location. A Vegas brunch allows you to indulge in a range of worldly cuisine while still feeding the pro-wrestler inside you. More importantly, a Vegas trip is never complete without a bottomless mimosa.

Sightseeing on the Vegas Strip

Once your stomach is bursting with steak and strudel, it’s time to take in the sights. Binoculars, fanny packs, and Hawaiian shirts are optional, but we’re more about seeing as many landmarks as possible on our three-day Vegas trip. We find that the most efficient way to do that is with a Big Bus Tour that whisks you away to every notable destination on your checklist while still giving you plenty of time to explore on your own. So, Let’s start with some casino hopping. Amidst the singing slot machines and the bustling gaming tables, every hotel has a unique theme. One minute you’ll find yourself in the days of the Roman Empire inside the opulent lobby of Caesars Palace , and the next, you’ll be among the Egyptian ruins of The Luxor .

As you make your way down Las Vegas Boulevard, stop at The High Roller or FLY LINQ Zipline located at The LINQ Promenade. This observation wheel is the largest in the United States so chances are you won’t have trouble finding it. The High Roller’s pods have some of the best views in the city and include an open bar for visitors who want to get started on their Vegas drinking with an afternoon cocktail or two. Speaking of afternoon refreshments, the High Roller is surrounded by tons of food options that include the west-coast fast food favorite In-N-Out that is a must for anyone who hasn't tried it before. So go ahead and grab a tasty lunch before continuing your Vegas trip with a full tank.

When you're planning out a Las Vegas itinerary, it's pretty much obligatory that you go to the Grand Canal Shoppes inside The Venetian. These upscale indoor shops transport you straight to Venice, Italy. Including a recreation of the famous canal complete with working gondolas and singing gondoliers to operate them.

As for your foliage needs, you'll want to head over to the Bellagio Conservatory where hundreds of horticulturists arrange thousands of flowers into the most beautiful botanical arrangements in the city. Inspired by various happenings around the world, the Bellagio Conservatory is totally free and is a sight that you must see to believe.

OK, we’re hopping over to another country in Las Vegas land, and this time it’s for dinner and some pre-show action. Dinner on the patio at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas is obligatory. This quaint French café serves up authentic French meals and offers an incredible dining experience. As you’re sipping on bubbly and replenishing your energy reserves, turn your attention to stage west, a.k.a. The Bellagio Fountains . With Performances every 15 minutes beginning at 8 p.m. and ending at midnight, this ultra popular free Las Vegas attraction can be the entertainment to your meal if you schedule your hunger pangs accordingly. Front row seats to the fountains, drool-worthy dishes, and prime people watching – this is what we like to call the Las Vegas dinnertime trifecta.

Partake in The Famous Vegas Nightlife

Once your food digests and you hit your second wind, head over to one of the dozens of fantastic shows on The Strip. Las Vegas has a show for every audience that ranges from hilarious family-friendly magicians to the spiciest of adult entertainment with plenty of options in between. So no matter who you're visiting Sin City with, our live shows are the perfect way to spend an evening out on the town.

Your final mission, should you choose to accept it, is to keep the party going until you leave the tarmac in a bloodshot state. Scratch that dancing itch with the rest of the beautiful party-goers at one of our ultra-famous nightclubs. Omnia inside Caesars Palace is one of our favorites, but there are plenty of other nightlife options both on and off the Strip where you can lose yourself in the heart-pumping music until your evening blurs into that sparkling Vegas abyss. If you don’t see the sunrise when you leave, you probably didn’t do your Vegas vacation right.

DAY ONE VEGAS TRIP PLANNER MUST-DOS

Vegas trip: day two.

Well, check you out, you lived to tell the tale of your first day in Sin City, and you’re ready to start the second day of your Las Vegas itinerary. Since you’ve already gotten a good taste of the Strip, day two is taking us to the place where Sin City got its start: Downtown on Fremont Street .

Check Out Historic Fremont Street

What used to be a small, whistle-wetting pit stop for cowboys passing through has become a neon-lit adult fantasy world. Like the champ it is, Fremont Street holds its reputation for being the best in the West for its undeniable good-time allure. Hosting guests in hotels of yesteryear while keeping up with the current century through modern upgrades and entertainment, Downtown Las Vegas remains the most eclectic and authentic part of the city to date. You can spend the whole day strolling down Fremont Street, soaring above the action on SlotZilla , or just parking it on a bench to people watch and enjoy the free entertainment provided by the Fremont Street Experience.

Once you get your fill of Las Vegas’ past, head back towards the Strip for more of what you can’t find anywhere else. If you dare (and we’re triple dog daring you), take the 829-foot plunge via The Sky Jump at The STRAT for an ultimate adrenaline rush. Don’t worry, you’re completely harnessed into the controlled fall, but we promise that jumping off this tower is a total rush. However, if you prefer the safer side of things, you can also take in the killer 360 views on the Skypod Observation Deck .

A Vegas Trip Needs Some Souvenirs

Need some time for that adrenaline to wear off? Bust out the plastic, because it’s time for some retail therapy. Fashion Show Mall is a great place to chill, grab a bite, and get your wardrobe on point. Loaded with 250 shops, 8 department stores, and 25 food options, this shopping oasis will make sure you go home with some sexy Vegas swag. The best part is, Fashion Show Mall features some of our favorite Las Vegas Strip attractions like Shaq's Fantasy Lab . So if your crew is about to make "shop till you drop" happen, step inside this one-of-a-kind immersive experience for a much-needed break and unique endeavor.

Dinner and Cocktails - Vegas Style

Look at the time; you should probably get cleaned up for a night on the town to finish off the second day of your Las Vegas trip. You’ll start with pre-dinner drinks at the Chandelier Bar . at The Cosmopolitan. You can’t miss it, it’s draped in crystal and takes up three floors of the property and oh yeah - looks like a massive chandelier. Each level of this bar has its own menu with varied drinks created by the on-property mixologist. Take it from us, try the Verbena. You chew on a Szechuan button and feel a few crazy sensations on your tongue as you drink this super yummy cocktail. A perfect pre-dinner indulgence, these special drinks will give you a new cocktail experience and get you ready for your main course. We recommend Secret Pizza for an old-school laid back vibe or STK if you're craving the flavors of an upscale, modern steakhouse.

Enjoy Out of This World Vegas Entertainment

Now that your stomach stopped growling, it’s time to be entertained. Cirque du Soleil is a Las Vegas staple, and we can’t wait to see your face after watching these must-see productions. Since there are several Cirque shows to choose from, you've got your work cut out for you when it comes to choosing just one for your Las Vegas itinerary – but just know that there is no wrong choice with these fantastic, high-flying shows. From stunning high dives into sparkling waters with “O” at Bellagio to tribute shows celebrating pop music idols, the sheer acrobatics and storytelling power of these Vegas spectacles will blow away.

If you want a taste of more Las Vegas nightlife, but your feet are still sore from your previous dancefest, we recommend getting off the Strip to visit Area15 . Here you can enjoy a wide range of psychedelic art installations while sipping on a specialty mixed drink from their neon-lit bar. Area15 is also home to Meow Wolf's Omega Mart where you can explore a 52,000 square-foot maze of alien-like worlds and interactive art hidden within the facade of a not-so-normal grocery store.

DAY TWO VEGAS TRIP PLANNER MUST-DOS

Vegas trip: day three.

Congrats! You’ve made it to your third day in Las Vegas and you deserve some hard-earned rest and relaxation. Of course, this day will still be packed with excitement, but it’ll be a little less like Black Friday shopping and a lot more like a Jimmy Buffet song.

Get Out Into Nature

One thing about Las Vegas that most visitors neglect is the fact that there’s plenty of fun to be had off the Strip. This is not a joke, people travel from all over the world to get their rock climbing and hiking fix within the enormous expanse of Red Rock Canyon or the iconic Grand Canyon that's just a car ride, bus, or helicopter ride away from Sin City. Whether you drive yourself or opt for one of our Grand Canyon Tours , the most important part is that you get yourself to the Canyon well before sundown.

Finish Strong with a Stellar Vegas View

After your day of adventure, indulge in something a little more refined back on the Strip to finish your Las Vegas trip a high note. Las Vegas has plenty of dining options that overlook some breathtaking views where you can savor the tastiest of gourmet dishes.

Take it a few stories up and check out the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck that offers stunning sights of the Bellagio Fountains and other iconic hotels. And if you really want to go out with a bang, take a nighttime Helicopter Tour over the Las Vegas Strip. The sparkle of the bright city lights against the dark desert backdrop will remind you one last time that Las Vegas is a place that you must see to believe.

DAY THREE VEGAS TRIP PLANNER MUST-DOS

More las vegas information.

• Best Day Trips From Las Vegas
• Best Day Daytime Activities in Las Vegas
• 20 Things to Do Under $20 in Las Vegas

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Exponential Interactive, Inc d/b/a VDX.tv

Cookie duration: 90 (days).

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Cookie duration resets each session.

Roq.ad GmbH

Cookie duration: 365 (days).

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Index Exchange Inc.

Cookie duration: 395 (days).

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Cookie duration resets each session. Uses other forms of storage.

Cookie duration: 396 (days).

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, User-provided data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

BeeswaxIO Corporation

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Sovrn, Inc.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Doesn't use cookies.

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Uses other forms of storage.

RTB House S.A.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

The UK Trade Desk Ltd

Cookie duration: 3629 (days).

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admetrics GmbH

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Nexxen Inc.

Cookie duration: 180 (days).

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Cookie duration: 184 (days).

Yahoo EMEA Limited

Cookie duration: 397 (days).

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ADventori SAS

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, User-provided data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, IP addresses

TripleLift, Inc.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Xandr, Inc.

Nexxen group llc.

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Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

ADITION (Virtual Minds GmbH)

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Active Agent (Virtual Minds GmbH)

Taboola europe limited.

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Cookie duration: 3650 (days).

Magnite, Inc.

Rategain adara inc.

Cookie duration: 730 (days).

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Sift Media, Inc

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, IP addresses

Rakuten Marketing LLC

Lumen research limited.

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Amazon Ad Server

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Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Yieldlab (Virtual Minds GmbH)

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Roku Advertising Services

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Nano Interactive Group Ltd.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data

Simplifi Holdings LLC

Data collected and processed: Precise location data, Device identifiers, IP addresses

PubMatic, Inc

Comscore b.v..

Cookie duration: 720 (days).

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Flashtalking

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PulsePoint, Inc.

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Smaato, Inc.

Cookie duration: 21 (days).

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Semasio GmbH

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Crimtan Holdings Limited

Genius sports uk limited.

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Blis Global Limited

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GroupM UK Limited

Loopme limited.

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Bidswitch gmbh, iponweb gmbh.

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NextRoll, Inc.

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Teads France SAS

Ströer ssp gmbh (ssp), os data solutions gmbh & co. kg.

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Permodo GmbH

Platform161 b.v., adacado technologies inc. (dba adacado).

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Basis Global Technologies, Inc.

Smadex, s.l.u..

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Bombora Inc.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

EASYmedia GmbH

Remerge gmbh.

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advanced store GmbH

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Magnite CTV, Inc.

Delta projects ab, usemax advertisement (emego gmbh).

Data collected and processed: Users’ profiles

emetriq GmbH

Publicis media gmbh.

Cookie duration: 1825 (days).

M.D. Primis Technologies Ltd.

Cookie duration: 25 (days).

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OneTag Limited

Cloud technologies s.a., smartology limited.

Data collected and processed: IP addresses

Improve Digital

Adobe advertising cloud.

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Bannerflow AB

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Non-precise location data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Integral Ad Science (incorporating ADmantX)

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Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Cookie duration: 393 (days).

Jivox Corporation

Cookie duration: 30 (days).

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Sage+Archer BV

Data collected and processed: Non-precise location data

On Device Research Limited

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, User-provided data, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, IP addresses

Rockabox Media Ltd

Exactag gmbh.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Celtra Inc.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Precise location data, Device identifiers, IP addresses

mainADV Srl

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Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles

The Kantar Group Limited

Cookie duration: 914 (days).

Nielsen Media Research Ltd.

Cookie duration: 120 (days).

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Pixalate, Inc.

Oracle advertising, audienceproject a/s, demandbase, inc., effiliation / effinity.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics

Arrivalist Co.

Data collected and processed: Non-precise location data, IP addresses

Seenthis AB

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, IP addresses

Commanders Act

Data collected and processed: Device identifiers, IP addresses

travel audience GmbH

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, IP addresses

Adludio Ltd.

Blendee srl, innovid llc, papirfly as, neustar, inc., a transunion company, verve group europe gmbh, otto (gmbh & co kg).

Data collected and processed: User-provided data, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Adobe Audience Manager, Adobe Experience Platform

Localsensor b.v., online solution, relay42 netherlands b.v..

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, User-provided data, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

GP One GmbH

Cookie duration: Uses session cookies.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, User-provided data, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, Privacy choices, IP addresses

The MediaGrid Inc.

Mindtake research gmbh.

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Google Advertising Products

Data collected and processed: Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Privacy choices, Users’ profiles, IP addresses

Protected Media LTD

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Browsing and interaction data, IP addresses

Clinch Labs LTD

Oracle data cloud - moat, hearts and science münchen gmbh.

Cookie duration: 60 (days).

Amazon Advertising

Moloco, inc..

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, IP addresses

Adtriba GmbH

Objective partners bv.

Data collected and processed: Device characteristics, Privacy choices, IP addresses

Hurra Communications GmbH

Data collected and processed: Probabilistic identifiers, Device characteristics, Authentication-derived identifiers, Precise location data, Device identifiers, Non-precise location data, Browsing and interaction data, IP addresses

Ad partners

Booking.com

Dentsu aegis network, omnicom media group, haensel ams, bdsk handels gmbh & co. kg, tradedoubler ab, marketing science consulting group, inc., travel data collective, advolution.control, batch media, vodafone gmbh, scenestealer, salesforce dmp, macromill group, applovin corp., fractional media.

Las Vegas   Travel Guide

Courtesy of RebeccaAng | Getty Images

29 Essential Things to Do in Las Vegas (+ Easy Day Trips)

Throughout its 118-year history, Las Vegas has been known as the planet's premier destination for gambling – and for good reason. This desert metropolis has more places to try your hand with Lady Luck than any other city in the world. But Sin

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Walk the Strip Walk the Strip free

Once you pass the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign along Las Vegas Boulevard South, it won't be too long until you're cruising the Strip. Sin City's notorious artery acts as the epicenter of any Vegas getaway. Here, you'll find Las Vegas' most iconic landmarks , including the  Bellagio Fountains , the Eiffel Tower at Paris, Las Vegas , the pyramid and sphinx belonging to The Luxor , and  The Venetian's Grand Canal .

The "Strip" technically runs from Mandalay Bay on the south end (home to an aquarium and a human-made beach) to the STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod casino on the north end, where you'll find the tallest free-standing observation tower in the country (this is where you'll go for the perfect Vegas photo).

Visit the Sphere Visit the Sphere

When construction on the MSG Sphere first began in 2019, the addition of yet another "world's largest" was met with a shrug. Las Vegas' skyline was already crammed with record-breaking, jaw-dropping attractions. Did the city really need one more? But when the Sphere's exterior LED screen switched on for the first time in 2023, suddenly this golf ball-shaped music and entertainment arena was all anyone could talk about. People crowded onto resort parking lot rooftops to watch as the largest spherical building on the planet transformed into a giant blinking eye, a swirling snow globe or a Space Age metallic orb.

At 366 feet tall, the Sphere is massive – taller than the Statue of Liberty. And the entire exterior of the building is cloaked in 1.2 million LED lights, which has the effect of transforming the Sphere into an almost lifelike replica of whatever images the screen projects. Visitors describe the Sphere as futuristic and otherworldly; like a piece of alien tech transported from another galaxy.

Bellagio Casino and Fountains Bellagio Casino and Fountains free

This Strip staple offers plenty of ways to lay your money on the line, from table games and slot machines to a race and sports book. This is also the choice casino among many high rollers due to its high-stakes tables. What's more, this casino hosts the World Poker Tour, among other tournaments. But there's more to the Bellagio than the casino floor.

Even those who don't gamble praise the Bellagio for its upscale atmosphere and variety of amenities and attractions. Anyone who's seen a movie set in Vegas will recognize the Bellagio's massive fountains: Every 15 to 30 minutes, those walking past the exterior of the Bellagio are treated to a complimentary light and water show with the fountain's jets shooting water into the air during intricately choreographed "dances" set to music.

Popular Tours

Grand Canyon West Tour with Hoover Dam Stop and Optional Skywalk

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See a Cirque du Soleil show See a Cirque du Soleil show

Las Vegas knows how to go big – especially when it comes to entertainment . So, it should come as no surprise that a performance company like Cirque du Soleil thrives here. Translating to "Circus of the Sun," Cirque du Soleil is known for its incredible acrobatic feats, which are performed with an unrivaled level of artistry. There are six different Cirque shows in Las Vegas, all of which are performed at different casinos along the Strip .

The "LOVE" show (performed at The Mirage) pays tribute to the legendary rock band with aerial acrobatics, trampoline and roller skate acts.

The Venetian Casino and Grand Canal The Venetian Casino and Grand Canal free

Why spend the money to cross the Atlantic when you can get a taste of Italy right in Vegas? Nestled along the Strip , The Venetian replicates the highlights of Venice , complete with gondola rides along the Grand Canal . Visitors can get a taste of what life is like in the Queen of the Adriatic thanks to The Venetian's Streetmosphere program: singers, stilt walkers and "living statues" recreate the typical scene you'd likely encounter in the real Venice for those who opt to spend the day perusing the wares in the Grand Canal Shoppes.

For $34 per person ($39 Thursday through Monday), you can take a gondola ride along the property's Grand Canal (inside or outside) anytime between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Sunday; on Friday and Saturday, gondola rides are offered until midnight.

Caesars Palace Casino and The Forum Shops Caesars Palace Casino and The Forum Shops free

A staple of the Vegas Strip , Caesars Palace started welcoming visitors to Sin City beginning in the 1960s. Since then, it has made an appearance in such popular films as "Rain Man," "Iron Man" and "The Hangover." Those who choose to gamble at Caesars will find themselves in ancient Rome , with massive columns and frescoes paying tribute to the casino's namesake. Those who prefer to use their money in other ways can make their way to The Forum Shops – home to about 160 specialty stores and restaurants, including Tom Ford and Saint Laurent, as well as more affordable outlets like H&M and Nike.

Caesars Palace is also home to a variety of nightlife venues, including the 75,000-square-foot Omnia Nightclub and the trendy Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, a favorite among fans of the "Vanderpump Rules" reality television series. Meanwhile, the on-site Colosseum venue is home to musical residencies like Rod Stewart, Sting and Adele. Top restaurants include Nobu and Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen.

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas free

The Cosmopolitan Resort and Casino, known simply as "The Cosmo" by locals, is the hip, glitzy place to go to see and be seen. Although the 3,000-plus room casino no longer holds the title of the "newest casino on the Strip ," it has remained trendy since it opened in 2010, thanks to its thriving dining and nightlife scene.

Known for both its in-your-face opulence and its hidden, "underground" entertainment, the Cosmo is a modern, high-end alternative to some of the Strip's over-the-top themed resorts. The Cosmo has not one, but three speakeasies (one of which is hidden behind a door marked "Janitor" inside a barbershop), a hidden restaurant disguised as a pawn shop, and the popular

Fremont Street Experience Fremont Street Experience free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun "vintage Vegas" experience, head to the second floor of the D Las Vegas Casino to play the Sigma Derby mechanical horse betting game. It's more than 30 years old and the last of its kind in Las Vegas! – Reannon Muth

Fremont Street used to be dominated by classic, but less-frequented casinos that seemed past their prime, such as the Golden Nugget and the Pioneer Club. Today, this section of downtown Las Vegas is once again ready to compete with the Strip for visitors' attention.

Half-Day Mojave Desert ATV Tour from Las Vegas

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Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Located about 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip , the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers travelers a respite from downtown Las Vegas' unnatural neon landscape. Though you can opt to follow the 13-mile scenic car route through the desert, make the most of your visit by stretching your legs along the numerous hiking and biking trails that dot the one-way route. No matter how you choose to explore the 195,819-acre area, you'll find yourself surrounded by the beautiful Mojave Desert and its signature red hills.

According to previous Red Rock Canyon visitors, a trip here is well worth leaving the casino floor behind. Recent travelers recommended getting out of your car to explore, but suggest you plan hikes or biking excursions during the cooler mornings rather than the sweltering afternoons. Reviewers also say the road is well-maintained and appreciate the abundance of restrooms along the way. Travelers also suggest stopping by the visitor center to peruse the informative exhibits.

New York-New York and the Big Apple Coaster New York-New York and the Big Apple Coaster free

You won't have any trouble finding New York-New York: Its faux-Manhattan skyline – complete with scale models of famous Big Apple attractions like the Statue of Liberty , the Empire State Building and the Brooklyn Bridge – occupies almost a full block of the Strip . Sitting across the street from the MGM Grand , New York-New York recreates the Gotham experience in true Vegas fashion, boasting a New York-style pizzeria, several casual pubs and a variety of souvenir and specialty shops.

If you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids , you’ll find a variety of family-friendly attractions here, including Hershey's Chocolate World, which offers more than 800 kinds of Hershey's chocolates and candies, and features a nearly 800-pound Statue of Liberty sculpture composed almost entirely of chocolate. In addition to an arcade, the property is also famous for its Big Apple Coaster. Traveling at speeds up to 67 mph, the roller coaster weaves through the faux Manhattan skyline, offering riders excellent views of the southern Strip – if they can keep their eyes open. Tickets start at $25 per person for one ride. Note: Riders must be at least 54 inches tall to ride. The coaster welcomes riders from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. until midnight Friday through Sunday.

Paris, Las Vegas and the Eiffel Tower Experience Paris, Las Vegas and the Eiffel Tower Experience free

Though it may not be quite as timeless as the actual City of Lights , Sin City's (rather kitschy) take on Paris is one of the Strip's most popular occupants. The property offers a whirlwind tour of the French capital's most iconic sights: You'll find a replica of the Arc de Triomphe, architecture reminiscent of the Paris Opera and the Louvre, and the pièce de résistance – a 46-story, half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower. Tickets to the tower's observation deck cost $25 for adults and $19 for kids ages 4 to 12. Similar to the real tower in Paris, the Las Vegas Eiffel Tower stages a free recurring light show every 30 minutes from sunset to midnight daily. For a unique view of the tower, reserve a lounge chair by the property’s pool, which is located on the rooftop directly under the Eiffel Tower replica.

As far as the casino goes, you'll find slots, table games, horse racing and Keno – with which travelers were more than satisfied. Paris, Las Vegas boasts several French-themed restaurants,  bars and shops, plus a variety of shows, not to mention the swanky Chateau Nightclub and Rooftop.

Hoover Dam Hoover Dam

Sitting about 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam spans the Colorado River and the Black Canyon (which separates Nevada and Arizona). The immense concrete structure – which confines Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume – has helped provide power to Nevada, Arizona and California since 1935. These days, in addition to keeping the lights on, the Hoover Dam welcomes more than 7 million visitors each year as one of America's most recognized landmarks. Some of its most noteworthy sights are as follows:

Visitor Center:  You can learn more about the Hoover Dam with a stop at the Visitor Center, which is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and costs $10 to explore. The facility's Exhibit Gallery features various audio, visual and interactive exhibits, such as a generator model you can walk through, while the theater shows a 10-minute film about the dam. Don't forget to head to the top-floor observation area to snap some memorable pictures of the massive structure, Lake Mead and the Colorado River, as most visitors recommend doing.

Area15 Area15

Like many of Sin City's attractions, Area15 is hard to describe. Marketed on its website as an "immersive entertainment district," the 200,000-square-foot warehouse features a psychedelic smorgasbord of unique experiences, including cinematic immersions, interactive art exhibits, virtual reality arcades, zip lines, axe-throwing and several one-of-a-kind bars and restaurants.

Area15 has earned comparisons to Burning Man and "Alice in Wonderland," thanks to the art installations that tower outside and the mind-bending exhibits inside. Two of the most popular attractions are the immersive art experience, Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, and the rum-fueled immersive Cirque show "Lost Spirits Distillery."

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LINQ Promenade LINQ Promenade

Home to the High Roller observation wheel, the LINQ Promenade is an open-air shopping, dining and entertainment district. Located between The LINQ Hotel and Casino and Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, the 1,200-foot-long promenade is anchored by the 550-foot High Roller, the largest observation wheel in North America and one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids . Recent travelers found the 360-degrees of the Strip , the city and the desert worth the trip. During the day, tickets cost $25 for adults and $10 for kids ages 4 to 12; in the evening (7 p.m. to midnight), tickets cost $35.50 for adults and $19 for kids. For another adrenaline rush, there’s Fly LINQ, the only zip line on the Las Vegas Strip . Riders launch from a 12-story tower and reach speeds up to 35 mph. The zip line is open from 2 to 10 p.m. daily. Tickets start at $35.

The shopping includes national retailers like Harley Davidson and the unusual like I Love Sugar, a 14,000-square-foot, two-story candy shop. Entertainment options abound as well and range from comedy and magic to live music. The minus5, an ice bar created from 100 tons of custom-carved ice, is among the bar and lounge options. Admission to the bar costs $24 for adults; children ages 7 and older are welcome until 9 p.m. for $13. There are more than 20 restaurants at the LINQ, including Guy Fieri's Vegas Kitchen and Bar. Recent visitors found the open-air promenade to be a refreshing break from the casinos and enjoyed the attractions and shopping.

Wynn Las Vegas Wynn Las Vegas free

If you're looking for a luxurious experience along the Strip , the Wynn (and its sister property, Encore ) delivers. With its stylishly understated accommodations and grand casino, the Wynn draws travelers seeking a sophisticated stay. Visitors who aren’t guests of the hotel often stop by to admire its opulent interiors. The property’s eye-catching lobby is a particular favorite as it features a variety of photo-worthy floral displays.

In addition to the casino, the Wynn is also home to a collection of luxury shops like Celine and Hermès, fine dining, such as the acclaimed Wing Lei, and an 18-hole golf course – the only resort golf course on the Strip. Its nightly entertainment options are just as unique. Along with several posh bars and lounges, the Wynn is also well-known for its nightly Lake of Dreams show. Spread across 3 acres, the multimedia show uses 5,500 LED lights, a 90-foot waterfall and 1,500 pine trees to create its spectacular setting. There are also two luxurious spas on-site.

SkyPod & Observation Deck at the STRAT Hotel SkyPod & Observation Deck at the STRAT Hotel

U.S. News Insider Tip: A lot of people go to dinner at the Top of the World Restaurant at the STRAT, but if you're looking for something more budget friendly, 108 Drinks offers delicious food and two-for-one cocktails during its "Sky High Happy Hour." – Reannon Muth

For a panoramic view of the Strip , head to the STRAT Hotel. The hotel boasts a 1,149-foot tower – the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States.

Take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel Take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel

For a unique, bird's-eye view of the Strip , take a ride on the High Roller at The LINQ. Standing 550 feet tall and 520 feet in diameter, the observation wheel is the largest in North America. The massive Ferris wheel features 28 handcrafted pods made out of Italian glass that can hold up to 40 people each. A trip around the observation wheel takes about 30 minutes, and recent travelers say it's a great place to snap photos of the nearby casinos and attractions. This is also one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids .

Adults ages 21 and older can opt for a ride within the Happy Half Hour pod, an upgraded experience that includes a complimentary open bar during your trip around the wheel. Recent visitors said the High Roller was worth the trip to see the views, either day or night; others were especially pleased that the pods are air conditioned. However, many also described the experience as overpriced.

The Neon Museum The Neon Museum

Once the sun goes down, Las Vegas shines brightly with hundreds of thousands of colorful bulbs flashing for your attention. Neon is nothing new in America's Playground: Hotels , bars and casinos have been luring customers with bright signs for decades. If you have an interest in learning more about the city’s iconic signs and Las Vegas history in general, consider a visit to The Neon Museum. Located on Las Vegas Boulevard just north of the Mob Museum and about a mile north of Fremont Street , the Neon Museum offers guided tours of what's known as the "Neon Boneyard." The boneyard can be found behind the museum's visitor center, which occupies the lobby of the former La Concha Motel.

The nearly 2.25-acre outdoor exhibit is home to more than 250 pieces of old Vegas signage all laid out for admiration on the desert floor. You can take a self-guided tour during the day, or sign up for a guided tour at night. The 45-minute boneyard walk-throughs are led by museum interpreters, who provide details on signs from such iconic landmarks as Caesars Palace , the Golden Nugget and Stardust.

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The Mob Museum The Mob Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: One of my favorite places to watch live jazz and blues is at the Mob Museum's basement-level speakeasy, The Underground. The cozy lounge has delicious cocktails and free admission if you know the secret password (hint: check Instagram). – Reannon Muth

Back in the day, not even Vegas' neon lights could distract Americans from Sin City's darker side; today, The Mob Museum sheds light on the city's pervasiveness in the 20th-century gangster era. Las Vegas' former federal courthouse – located in the downtown area a few blocks northeast of the Fremont Street Experience  – now houses distinct interactive exhibits devoted to exposing America's mob history.

Circa Resort & Casino Circa Resort & Casino free

When Circa Resort & Casino held its grand opening in 2020, it was the first new casino to open in downtown Las Vegas in more than 40 years. The chic, 35-story-tall addition to this old Las Vegas neighborhood has all the modern features of a 21st-century casino, including a high-tech parking garage named the Garage Mahal and a three-story-tall sportsbook (the world's largest). But the adults-only casino also has a distinctly vintage Vegas vibe, too. Circa's interior features midcentury lighting and accents, globe chandeliers and the iconic "Vegas Vickie," a giant neon cowgirl that hovers over the casino lobby.

The most talked-about attraction among recent visitors at Circa, however, is Stadium Swim, a mashup of a concert stadium and a swimming pool amphitheater. Guests can lounge in one of six pools while they catch a sports game or concert on the 40-foot screen above. The pool is heated and remains open year-round, which makes it a popular lounge spot on desert spring days.

Downtown Container Park Downtown Container Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you like the artsy vibe of Container Park, then you'll love the nearby Arts District – a hip downtown neighborhood filled with quirky bars, eclectic restaurants and funky murals. Eat at Esther's Kitchen and grab a drink at ReBAR. – Reannon Muth

The Downtown Container Park's premise is an interesting one: An open-air dining and shopping plaza made entirely from repurposed shipping containers. The 1.1-acre venue is also home to a sprawling treehouse and interactive play area and a 40-foot-tall praying mantis sculpture that shoots real flames from its antennae.

SlotZilla Zipline SlotZilla Zipline

Part of the Fremont Street Experience , SlotZilla is modeled after a giant slot machine, complete with Las Vegas icons like oversized dice and a martini glass. At 11 stories tall, SlotZilla is billed as the world’s largest slot machine and as a zip line offers riders two options: On the lower line, Zip-Zilla, participants ride in a seated position, zipping along at 77 feet in the air. The line travels about halfway through the Fremont Street Experience. The higher zip line, known as Super-Hero Zoom, rises 114 feet high. Patrons ride “superhero-style” (with their bodies parallel to the ground) to the other end of the street and are dropped off at the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino. Guests should allot one hour for the entire experience, even though the rides are 30 seconds and one minute, respectively. In addition to a weight check and harness fitting, you’ll have to go through a brief safety training.

Recent travelers found the higher “Super-Hero Zoom” zip line thrilling and enjoyed the views from up above, especially at night. However, there were mixed reviews about the check-in process, and some warned that you’ll have to climb a lot of steps to get to the top of the launching platform.

SPEEDVEGAS SPEEDVEGAS

Not all thrill-seekers are satisfied with laying their cards out on the table. When Lady Luck can't get your adrenaline pumping, an exotic driving experience sure will. Headquartered about 15 minutes south of the Strip , SPEEDVEGAS puts those feeling the need for speed behind some of the world's fastest, most luxurious cars. From exotic Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins to speedy Corvettes and Camaros, you'll have your pick of horsepower.

This experience isn't for everyone: Drivers must be at least 18 years old. The chance to sit in the driver's seat is anything but affordable, with driving experiences starting at approximately $250 for five laps. However, those who have put the pedal to the metal on a SPEEDVEGAS experience can't stop raving about it, praising the accommodating and safety-conscious staff.

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Springs Preserve Springs Preserve

If you're looking for a kid-friendly activity away from the Strip , or just need a breath of fresh air, consider a visit to the Springs Preserve and Origen Museum. There's something of interest for almost everyone at this 180-acre cultural institution, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve is located at the original water source for the valley, and is commonly known as the "birthplace of Las Vegas." It's a place meant to commemorate Las Vegas' history and boasts museums, galleries, a botanical garden, a butterfly habitat and an interpretive trail system. Meanwhile, the Origen Museum features more than 75 permanent exhibits, an indoor theater and a traveling exhibit space.

Recent visitors raved about the family-friendly atmosphere here, but even those without kids in tow love the history and the botanical garden. Reviewers called the grounds “peaceful” and said Springs Preserve provides a fun day away from the Strip.

Mandalay Bay Casino, Aquarium and Beach Mandalay Bay Casino, Aquarium and Beach free

Sure, this towering gold building at the southern end of the Strip boasts all the slots, poker and game tables you want in a Sin City venue, not to mention a variety of restaurants and nightlife venues. (Plus, it's home to the House of Blues Music Hall and plays host to "Michael Jackson ONE," Cirque du Soleil 's tribute to the 80s pop icon.) But Mandalay Bay doesn't exude the same level of kitsch found at other casinos along Las Vegas Boulevard – a major selling point for more laid-back travelers. In fact, this is the place you go if you're looking for an escape, according to reviewers.

One of the major highlights of Mandalay Bay is its 11-acre “aquatic playground,” which features a human-made beach, a lazy river and a wave pool that creates an oceanside atmosphere in the middle of the Nevada desert. You can kick off your shoes and work on your tan in one of the rentable cabanas or gazebos; those looking to avoid bikini tan lines can ditch the top at the Moorea Beach Club. Note that unless you're a guest at the Mandalay Bay or the Delano Las Vegas, you will have to rent a cabana to access the pool and beach areas – prices vary by day and occupancy levels.

Luxor Casino Luxor Casino free

As you make your way down the Strip , you can't miss the 30-story pyramid that is home to the Luxor Hotel & Casino. You can try your luck at more than 1,100 slot, video poker and multi-game machines, or play one of dozens of table games on the 120,000-square-foot floor. There's also a large sportsbook area, with plasma TVs and individual seats with monitors. If you're a high roller, there's a private section for you, too, with a comfortable lounge and cocktail bar.

In addition to the gaming floor, the casino also offers a variety of nightly entertainment options and attractions like the Blue Man Group, as well as several museum exhibits, such as one devoted to Titanic artifacts. For many travelers, “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” was a highlight of their visit to Luxor. In addition to featuring more than 250 artifacts recovered from the ship, the exhibition displays recreated rooms, including the ornate Grand Staircase. What's more, Luxor touts one of the largest pool decks in Vegas, offering 125,650 square feet of space. As with other hotels on the Strip, Luxor also offers a variety of nightlife venues and restaurants.

MGM Grand Casino MGM Grand Casino free

It only makes sense that a city devoted to entertainment would feature a casino hotel devoted to the entertainment industry. The casino – which sits mid-Strip across from New York-New York at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue – hosts a variety of performances ranging from big-name concerts to sporting events to Cirque du Soleil 's "KÀ." It is also the partner to the nearby T-Mobile Arena, which hosts large-scale events, such as the iHeartRadio Music Festival.

The MGM Grand is also home to several top-notch restaurants and nightlife venues, such as Hakkasan nightclub, where celebrity DJs regularly spin hits into the wee hours. During the day, you can stop by Wet Republic Ultra Pool, where you can dance, swim or relax in party cabanas. Several shops can be found here as well, but you'll likely spend most of your time (and your money) on the casino floor, which houses poker tables, slot machines and a race and sports book. Keep in mind: The property spans more than 6 acres, so you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your visit (comfortable shoes are a must). Travelers were impressed by the size of the MGM Grand Casino, but said the nightlife options are the real star of the property.

Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon

If you’re in need of a retreat into nature during your Las Vegas vacation, consider planning a day trip to the Grand Canyon. The national park’s popular South Rim is located about 280 miles (around 4.5 hours) southeast of the Strip. If you don't have your own set of wheels, opt for one of the Best Grand Canyon Bus Tours From Las Vegas . For a shorter time commitment, there’s also the Best Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours , some of which include a landing on the canyon floor. 

If you don’t want to devote a whole day to the national park, you can drive about 130 miles, or around two hours, to visit Grand Canyon West . Owned and operated by the Hualapai Indian Reservation, Grand Canyon West is not part of the national park, but it does offer its own attractions, including the popular Grand Canyon Skywalk. For more information about planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, check out our Grand Canyon National Park travel guide .

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The Adventuredome at Circus Circus The Adventuredome at Circus Circus

In a city that boasts every type of attraction imaginable, it’s no surprise to find an indoor amusement park. Located on the Strip , the 5-acre Adventuredome at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino offers rides and entertainment for all ages. There are 25 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, an 18-hole miniature golf course, a carousel, a video game arcade and a rock clubbing wall, all housed under a large glass dome. The complex also includes free clown shows, virtual reality rooms and the FX Theater, which screens family-friendly films in 4D.

Recent visitors appreciated the climate-controlled indoor environment, but warn that the Adventuredome is better suited to younger children (ages 12 and younger) than adults due to the nature of its rides and attractions. (It's considered one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids .) Reviewers complained about the price of the admission passes: All-day tickets for those 48 inches and taller are $60; for those shorter than 48 inches, all-day tickets cost $30.

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The best things to do in Vegas right now

Whether you’re here for a wild weekend or to catch a game or a concert, we’ve got you covered with the best things to do in Vegas

Las Vegas is like no other place on earth, full of wild spectacles, world-famous sporting events, 24/7 casinos and unparalleled nightlife, immersive experiences, and even natural wonders. With so much activity packed into a considerably small area, finding the best things to do in Las Vegas can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. What follows is a nifty guide to The Strip and beyond, including the must-see restaurants and can't-miss shows to check out, plus some off-the-beaten-path favorites to get you outdoors. Below are our picks of the best things to do in Vegas.

This guide was updated by Vegas-based writer Ryan Slattery . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best restaurants in Las Vegas right now 🏞️ Hidden gems in Las Vegas you need to know about 🍷 The best bars in Las Vegas 🏩 The best hotels in Las Vegas 🏰 The best Airbnb mansions in Las Vegas ⛲  The best attractions in Las Vegas

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Best things to do in Vegas

1.  Sphere

Upon opening, Sphere became one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. The exoskeleton of the massive orb (366 feet tall and 516 feet wide) lights up with LED displays ranging from yellow face emojis and a giant eyeball to a Halloween jack-o-lantern and even a snow globe. It's equally impressive inside as a concert venue, immersing concertgoers into the show. U2 opened Sphere with Phish and Dead and Company scheduled as its subsequent residencies. A 50-minute show called Postcard from Earth is also worth a visit.

2.  AREA15

Not to be confused with our classified alien-holding military base up the road, AREA15 is an all-ages immersive entertainment district with mind-altering spaces, art installations, bars (be sure to find Lost Spirits Distillery for a cocktail), and other fantasy worlds. Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart and Illuminarium are two of the bigger attractions.

3.  Bacchanal Buffet

While just about every casino has a dedicated buffet on-site, Caesars Palace Bacchanal Buffet is hands-down the most amazing all-you-can-eat experience you’ll have in Sin City. The food is brag-worthy, and the atmosphere is refined, perfect for date night or family reunions alike. Pack your plate with everything from gorgeous dim sum to lump crab avocado toast to oysters on the half shell. Pick up a clean plate and pace yourself. There’s a bounty to enjoy. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

4.  Madame Tussauds

• Attractions

The first US incarnation of London's all-conquering attraction contains more than 100 wax celebs in various settings, all lots of fun.  Here it  tones down the British history in favor of celebrity and pop culture “encounters”: an opportunity to join the “wolf pack” from  The Hangover , for example, or a chance to pose with Miley Cyrus and her wrecking ball.  There’s now lots of impressive supplementary fun too, including a superb Marvel 4D film experience, and the Carnival Carnage 7D experience... quite what the seven dimensions are, we're not sure. Recommended, though.

5.  Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn and its sister property, Encore, define luxury in Las Vegas. The property has 4,748 spacious, well-appointed rooms, suites and villas, plus 20 signature dining experiences, 14 bars, two award-winning spas, nightclubs, and so much more. There is even an 18-hole championship golf course that often hosts celebrity tournaments.

6.  Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil was an unconventional, risk-taking circus troupe of acrobats, contortionists and gymnasts when it arrived in Las Vegas three decades ago. Today, it’s a staple of Las Vegas entertainment and one could say you haven’t experienced Vegas if you haven’t witnessed one of their shows. Mystere opened in 1993 and is one of six Cirque shows running on The Strip. The others are  KÀ, Mad Apple, The Beatles LOVE, Michael Jackson ONE , and the water spectacular O .

7.  Caesars Palace

Its center Strip location is ideal and the property has everything you want out of a resort. Caesars Palace has 3,980 guest rooms, a luxury shopping center, a 4,300-seat entertainment venue, a five-acre pool complex, a spa, and one of the city’s top nightclubs. Its restaurant collection includes Bacchanal Buffet and is very celebrity chef heavy with the likes Guy Savoy, Gordon Ramsay, Bobby Flay, Giada De Laurentiis, Guy Fieri and Dominique Ansel all operating there.

8.  The Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena

• Things to do

T-Mobile was built to be the home arena for the city’s first professional sports team and it turned Las Vegas into a rabid hockey town. The Vegas Golden Knights first took the ice in 2017 and the team won the Stanley Cup in their sixth season. If you time your trip with the NHL season, be sure to catch a game. It’s quite the spectacle. T-Mobile Arena also doubles as a concert venue.

9.  Hoover Dam

• Walks and tours
• price 1 of 4

The Great Depression-era landmark that dammed the Colorado River and created Lake Mead, Hoover Dam looms large in Las Vegas history. The 726-foot-high curving cement facade makes for a striking view, whether you take a guided tour, walk along the bridge, or view it from a boat on Lake Mead. It took five years and 21,000 men to build the dam, which straddles the Nevada-Arizona border.

10.  The Fountains of Bellagio

Bellagio’s signature dancing fountains are arguably the most popular attraction on The Strip. The geysers—more than 1,200 in all—are nestled in the eight-and-a-half-acre lake in front of the resort. Set to music, the fountain erupts every half-hour in the afternoon and every 15 minutes throughout the evening until midnight. The aquatic spectacle immortalized in Ocean’s Eleven is not just free; it is truly priceless.

11.  The Venetian Las Vegas

The Venetian is an ever-expanding resort and entertainment complex with indoor and outdoor gondolas and larger-than-life décor. Inside, St. Mark’s Square is replicated, with costumed characters and gelato stands under a perpetually sunny sky. Bask in lavish comfort here, as The Venetian boasts some of the roomiest suites on The Strip and has multiple pools in Italian-inspired gardens.

12.  The National Atomic Testing Museum

Can you believe that during the '50s, people would saunter into the streets along The Strip, still clutching their Cuban Sunsets, and watch as enormous atomic mushroom clouds appeared on the horizon and arced skyward? The history and development of America's nuclear weapons program are both hypnotic and horrifying. And strangely enough, Las Vegas was close to the heart of it. A visit to this museum should absolutely, unequivocally be on your Sin City Must Do List. 

13.  Las Vegas Springs Preserve

The whole reason Vegas is even where it is is right here. The Las Vegas Springs Preserve  is built around the original water source for the city, the Las Vegas Springs. Known as the Birthplace of Las Vegas, the springs offer enough fun things to do to fill a whole day, with activities for children, bike rentals to further explore the area, the Nevada State Museum, Origen Museum, and a variety of other exhibits.

14.  Neon Museum

Las Vegas has a habit of blowing things up when they get old, musty, or simply unprofitable. While the city’s vintage architecture has often been reduced to rubble, many of its iconic neon signs have been saved from that fate and set aside at the acclaimed Neon Museum. Book a tour to wander among the relics, hearing tales of eccentric billionaires, long-gone landmarks, and the characters that helped make Vegas, Vegas.

15.  Lake Las Vegas

Just 16 miles east of the Las Vegas Strip, Lake Las Vegas is an expansive complex with hotels, golf courses, and waterfront restaurants. The lake is calm and inviting, perfect for standup paddleboard sessions and kayaking, flyboarding, and rowing. Catch a dragon boat race or take a yacht cruise, then cozy up on the lawn for musical performances from spring through fall.

16.  Pinball Hall of Fame

• Special interest
• East Las Vegas

Aficionados of old-school arcade games should make a beeline for the peculiarly beautiful Pinball Hall of Fame (which recently moved to a new location), a wonderland where you can admire—and play—more than 150 operational pinball machines, from throwback games to modern wonders. Bring your quarters.

17.  Dolby Live

Thanks to changing entertainment trends, The Strip is littered with stars as production shows have made way for resident headliners—A-list musicians and bands that set up shop in casino showrooms for extended runs. Dolby Live (previously named Park Theater) regulars have included Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Aerosmith, and Cher. The venue seats 5,200, and VIP seating includes a dedicated cocktail service. 

18.  The Mob Museum

Set in a former courthouse that hosted part of the Kefauver Hearings, this brilliant museum chronicles organized crime around the globe and in Las Vegas—where the Mob used to run the joint—as well as law enforcement’s efforts to combat it. Permanent exhibitions include a vintage electric chair, a piece of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre wall, and a speakeasy display complete with a full cocktail bar. For an extra fee, you can venture into special experiences like the Crime Lab, Firearm Training Simulator, or a tour of the museum’s in-house distillery with tasting included.

19.  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Vegas visitors are often shocked to find that The Strip isn’t four miles of glitz plopped down amid open desert. Rather, the city is ringed by mountains and canyons, which offer wonderful hiking. Visit Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , where rock walls are dotted with climbers on world-class routes, and trails lead into lovely gullies. Not into hiking? Drive a 13-mile loop through the park for a taste of the scenery sans the sweat.

20.  Fremont Street Experience

Still one of the best things to do in town, the old Fremont Street casino district continually rebuilds itself into a thrilling entertainment zone thanks to new attractions, constant live entertainment, and budget-friendly eats. The overhead canopy light and sound show pumps out favorite songs paired with digital light accompaniment that nearly everyone stops to take in. Some folks pass through quickly, thanks to the SlotZilla zipline course. Take a stroll through old-school Vegas and pick up a beer to go in this pedestrian-friendly entertainment hub.

21.  Mandalay Bay Beach

Las Vegas pool parties are the place to beat the heat, and Mandalay Bay Beach is perfect for all ages—and even open to non-hotel guests with paid admission. Play along the 11-acre sandy shoreline, cool down in the rolling wave pool and lazy river or chill out in luxury bungalows. Three bars and a grill line the beach playground so you can soak in the desert sun all day long.

22.  High Roller Observation Wheel

• price 2 of 4

This is the world’s largest observation wheel, and it sits in the very heart of the city. Take a slow-motion spin 550ft above the Las Vegas Strip for unbeatable views of the skyline and desert beyond. A single loop takes 30 minutes. If you really want to take it to the next level, book the Happy Half Hour and enjoy an open bar on your ride.

23.  Fremont East

Fremont East , north of the casino corridor, is Vegas’s urbane, work-in-progress neighborhood. What was once a blighted stretch of road has become home to gobs of trendy bars, restaurants, shops, and family attractions as Downtown is reinvigorated. Swill cocktails at the  Downtown Cocktail Room  or hit the  Writer’s Block  bookstore for something to read on the plane ride home. Pop into  Container Park , a petite shopping and dining center made of shipping containers complete with a kids' play area and live entertainment throughout the day.

24.  The Bellagio Conservatory

The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is one of the city’s great free attractions, with a not-so-secret garden that gets a top-to-bottom seasonal makeover a handful of times per year. Step inside the 24-hour gardens, and you’ll be greeted by a themed horticultural exhibit that uses thousands of flowers to form gorgeous sculptures and landscapes. It’s like a miniature Disneyland for plant fans.

25.  Omnia

Las Vegas does nightlife the way it does everything else: big, bold, and positively over-the-top. For the all-out experience, enter the 75,000-square-foot OMNIA at Caesars Palace, where you can join the masses popping bottles and dancing to DJs like Steve Aoki and Zedd under a huge revolving chandelier.

More great things to do in Las Vegas

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Las Vegas Itinerary: A First-Timers Guide to 3 Days in Vegas

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Las Vegas, Nevada reigns as the Entertainment Capital of the World, wooing an incredible number of diverse visitors from every corner of the planet. The city was built on gambling and bawdy nightlife, but today Las Vegas spoils guests with a wide range of activities and attractions.

In fact, there are so many things to do in Vegas that creating a Las Vegas Itinerary can be quite the conundrum. To help fellow travelers – especially Vegas First-Timers – we have created a perfect plan for spending 3 days in Las Vegas.

3 Days in Las Vegas

A 3-Day trip to Vegas allows just enough time for visitors to get a taste of what the city has to offer – and trust us, it has a lot! On a 3-Day Vegas Trip, visitors can see the flashing neon lights, eat at celebrity chef restaurants, gamble at flashy casinos and visit top attractions…and that’s just Day One!

Our trip plan is ideal for a long weekend in Vegas – but it works just as well for weekdays, too. The city is always buzzing, so it doesn’t matter if you are spending a weekend in Vegas or tacking a few extra days onto a business trip, there are no dull days in Las Vegas!

Additionally, we understand that not all travelers planning a trip to Las Vegas intend on spending 3 days in the city. Some visitors are breezing through on a day trip to Las Vegas, while others are planning to spend 4 nights in Vegas. Therefore, we have outlined Las Vegas Itineraries for longer and shorter stays at the end of the article.

First Time Las Vegas: Must-Do Activities

My first time to Vegas was a birthday trip to celebrate with friends. Beyond getting ourselves there, we had done little in the way of research. While the weekend was, no doubt, a memorable one, our very loose plans resulted in missed attractions and overlooked sights.

On a return trip, I was eager to make up for what I skipped on my first time in Vegas. I designed an itinerary for Las Vegas that featured highlights beyond the casinos and pool parties – and it was fascinating!

As I planned subsequent trips (while living in Phoenix for 10 years, there were countless Vegas trips), I challenged myself to see more. On each visit, I realized just how much I missed on my first time in Las Vegas.

To help other travelers, we created our Las Vegas 3-Day Itinerary with first-time visitors in mind; it is essentially a “First Time Vegas Must-Do List.” That said, visitors who had an initial trip experience similar to mine and are making a return trip to the city will certainly find our Vegas Itinerary useful as well!

Pro Travel Tip : How to plan a trip to Las Vegas will depend on your interests, budget and overall time-frame for your visit. While we highlight what we think is the best plan for things to do in Vegas for first-time visitors, our outline can also be used as a base for a couples getaway or even a Las Vegas family itinerary!

Best Las Vegas Itinerary

Our “3-Day Itinerary: Las Vegas for First-Timers” is formatted in a day-by-day trip plan. In addition to our 3-Day trip outline, we include travel tips for alternate length stays – and advice for how to get there (and around), where to stay and what to pack.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this 3-Day Vegas Itinerary to plan your Sin City vacation!

DAY 1 of Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

On the first day of your 3 Days Itinerary, kick off your trip with a few iconic Vegas experiences.

Swing by the Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Welcome to Vegas! Make your first stop in the city at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Located at the south end of The Strip next to the airport, it is one of the most famous signs in the world. The sign was designed in 1959 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Start your exciting vacation by getting your picture taken in front of the iconic Las Vegas sign!

Pro Tip: There is no better time to visit the famous sign than when you first arrive; it is an absolute must-do in Vegas for first-timers! If you are arriving by plane and taking Lyft or Uber to your hotel schedule a stop at the sign on your way.

Check into Your Accommodations on The Strip

With just three days in Las Vegas, staying on The Strip is essential! There are so many hotels to choose from – and we go into more details on where to stay later in the article. Whichever hotel you choose, get checked in, drop your bags and hit the ground running…by going straight to the casino.

Hit the Las Vegas Casinos

Las Vegas casinos are elaborate and loud. The grand rooms are filled with gambling tables, slot machines and a cacophony of ringing bells and falling coins. The dimly lit, maze-like casinos can be bewildering, but during your 3 day trip to Vegas, the flashing lights and noisy slots fade into the background.

Travel Tip: Best Casino in Vegas for First Timers

Gambling in Las Vegas can be intimidating – but it is a Vegas must-do for first-timers! Choosing the ‘best casino’ for your Las Vegas trip planner is less important that choosing the right time and the right games. One of the best Las Vegas tips is to ease into gambling – otherwise, you can lose a bundle of money in the blink of an eye. 

The slots are a good place to start – and Vegas must-do. Some casinos still have Penny Slot machines, which can literally provide hours of low-risk entertainment. However, it is easy to move around the slot machines – all of which have different (and sometimes confusing) rules for winning.

All casinos have table games – like Blackjack, Poker, Roulette and Craps. Table games are fun, but can get expensive, especially if you don’t know the rules of the game. The best time to learn how to play is during the day, when the tables are less busy and the minimum bets are lowest (sometimes $5 per game, but likely 3 times that amount at the luxury casinos). 

Budget Travel Tip: One of the best things about casinos is that, while you are playing, waitresses will bring you free drinks! Just remember to tip the waitstaff. 

See the Sights on The Strip

Now that you are getting warmed up, it’s time to step out onto The Strip – officially known as Las Vegas Boulevard. The extravagant casino complexes that line the world-famous street are a spectacular sight – especially as the sun starts to set and the neon lights begin to glow.

While the scene in its entirety is astounding, we recommend spending the late afternoon and early evening at the Vegas sights in the center of The Strip. Our top picks (which we detail next) are the Bellagio Fountain, the Eiffel Tower, the LINQ entertainment complex and the Flamingoes. 

Pro Tip: When wandering on the Las Vegas Strip, one of the most deceiving facets is that objects are further than they appear. The colossal size of the casino resorts is staggering…and it means that it can take 15 to 20 minutes just to walk to the property ‘next door’. We talk more about the best ways to get around at the end of the post – but keep it in mind as you plan your trip itinerary.

Bellagio Fountain and Conservatory

Without question, the Bellagio Fountain is a must-see on your Las Vegas 3 Day Itinerary. Bellagio Fountain shows – a water, music and light extravaganza – take place throughout the day and you can find a schedule on the official Bellagio website . Beautiful both day and night, the shows are absolutely free for everyone to enjoy!

After watching the fountain show, pop into the Bellagio Hotel and Casino to visit the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. As you walk through the Bellagio lobby, look up to admire the opulent glass ceiling. All three activities – the fountain, gardens and ceiling – are completely free and must-see sights on a First Time Vegas Itinerary!

Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

Visiting the imitation Eiffel Tower that stands across the street from the Bellagio is another one of the top things to do in Vegas for first timers. Whether you just stand at the base or go up to the Vegas Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck is up to you! If you have time in your 3 Day Vegas Itinerary, take a walk through the Parisian-inspired hotel and casino, too. 

High Roller Observation Wheel and Promenade at the LINQ

The LINQ Promenade, a shopping, dining and entertainment district, is packed with attractions – and visiting is a must on your 3 Day Itinerary Las Vegas. You can go for a spin on the High Roller at the LINQ – one of the world’s tallest observation wheels – or fly 1,000 feet above the Promenade via zipline. Alternatively, keep your feet on the ground and simply enjoy the lightshow after dark (which is free!). 

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo Casino

One of our favorite free things to do on a 3 day trip to Las Vegas is visiting the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel. The habitat, which is set on the grounds of the hotel, is home to a flock of flamingos and other feathered friends…and it is completely free! 

Dine Like a Celebrity

Vegas – with thousands of restaurants – has gained a reputation as a foodie city in recent years. In fact, there are more than 50 celebrity chef restaurants in Las Vegas – from Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen to Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen to Giada and Nobu.

The choices are overwhelming, especially if it is your first trip to Las Vegas. Ultimately, where you decide to dine depends on your tastes and budget – or favorite celebrity chef. (That said, our top pick would be an epic burger at Guy Fieri’s.)

Las Vegas Show

Shows in Las Vegas gained popularity in the 1950s…and they have only gotten bigger and better since then. We think a show is a must on a Las Vegas first trip. Ticket prices vary by show, but you can find info and tickets online .

Some of my best weekend trips to Vegas were highlighted by a Vegas show. Garth Brooks at The Wynn is, hands down, one of the best concerts I have ever attended in my life…but sadly his stint in Vegas is over. An exciting line up of concerts are slated for the new love-it-or-hate-it Sphere – but we haven’t made it to a show yet. 

Some of the other top Vegas performances to consider for your 3 Day Vegas trip are Cirque du Soleil (including Love, One, Ka, O and Mystere at Treasure Island), La Reve, Blue Man Group, The Mentalist and David Copperfield. Impersonator shows – which range from MJ Live to Elvis tributes – are classic entertainment in the city. 

Fun Travel Tip : If you are planning a Girls Weekend in Vegas Itinerary, you might want to get tickets to the Thunder Down Under male revue – and, for guys planning a Vegas Bachelor Party Itinerary, check out X Burlesque for a tasteful topless dance show.

DAY 2 of Your 3-Day Itinerary Las Vegas

Next up on your Vegas 3-Day Itinerary: relax and then feast, let loose and have some more fun – Vegas-style!

Ease into your Day with a Vegas Spa Treatment

Start your second day of your three days in Vegas with a refreshing spa treatment. Going to the spa is a fun activity to include on a Vegas Bachelorette Itinerary, a solo Vegas trip or even a Las Vegas Couples Itinerary!

Spa treatments range from traditional packages – like massages, facials and pedicures – to unique procedures. For example, guests can get a water Watsu Massage at Bellagio, a reviving Royal Flush IV treatment at MGM Grand or even a Turkish bath experience in the Hammam at The Cosmopolitan.

Pro Tip : If spas are not your cup of tea, instead do a Casino Shuffle! Visit a few of the casinos that you have always wanted to gamble in – like Aria, Caesars Palace and the Wynn. When I did this with my sister, we played a small amount of money on the slots at each place. It was a fun way to see and experience the grandeur of each casino.

Sample the Fare on a Las Vegas Food Tour

After a relaxing morning, set off mid-day for an absolute feast on a highly rated food tour. A food tour is not only one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for first timers, but for return visitors as well!

Rather than limiting yourself to just one restaurant for lunch, let a guide lead the way to the best tastes on The Strip! The local guide shares insider tips, hidden gems and a little bit of Vegas history, too. Book it now!

Experience a Las Vegas Pool Party

Las Vegas Pool Parties are legendary – and a must on your Las Vegas trip itinerary! Plan to spend the entire afternoon of Day 2 poolside. 

Essentially day time clubs, international DJs spin music and bartenders sling expensive cocktails in an absolutely energetic atmosphere. The parties are wildest on summer weekends, but there is usually at least one resort hosting a pool party every day of the week.

Choosing which pool party in Vegas to go to will depend on your style. One of the best pool parties we attended was Wet Republic Ultra Pool at the MGM Grand. Other popular picks are Encore Beach Club, Bali inspired Ayu, Daylight and Marquee Dayclub.

It is important to note that many pool parties charge a cover fee, enforce a dress code and may have minimum spends – so be sure to check the specifics.

Tip for Travelers: What if you just want to lounge around the pool and take a dip without the daytime debauchery? No stress, every resort on The Strip has a dedicated hotel pool where guests can sunbath and enjoy a casual swim without the party music. 

Enjoy Dinner on The Strip

Now that you are primed for the evening, get changed, re-hydrate and eat something before heading out to the nightclubs. If you are looking for an elevated Vegas experience, dine at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant (just make sure to get your reservations in advance!). For casual Mexican fare, eat at Nacho Daddy, or if you are on a budget, feast on classic American fast-food at In-and-Out Burger.

Dance at the Vegas Clubs on The Strip

Vegas nightclubs – or rather mega-clubs – maintain an electric vibe with some of the world’s best DJs and packed dance floors. Some of the most epic clubs are Tao at Venetian, Omnia at Caesars Palace, Jewel at Aria, Hakkasan at MGM Grand and Marquee at Cosmopolitan. While most exciting for a Las Vegas Weekend Itinerary, visitors will have no problem finding clubs that are open every night of the week.

All clubs have promoters (which you can find on The Strip, through your hotel or in advance by searching online) who offer VIP status and sometimes free drinks. Dress codes can be strict – for example, many places will deny entry to anyone wearing backless sandals…so read the rules before you go.

Vegas Party Bus

Visitors who are less concerned with which club they go to – and those who don’t want to hassle with transportation and cover charges – can opt for Party Bus package . On a Girls’ Weekend in Vegas, we joined one of the party buses that offered VIP entry into three clubs and included onboard drinks. Our bus even had a stripper pole, which was highly entertaining as the night progressed!

Family-Friendly Night in Vegas

If you are planning a Las Vegas family vacation itinerary – or if you simply want to bypass the club scene – rather than hopping on a Party Bus, take the Big Bus Night Tour. The open-air bus passes by the city’s most dazzling nighttime attractions. Get the details!

Luxury Las Vegas Helicopter Experience at Night

Take things up a notch on a helicopter tour of The Strip at night. The epic helicopter ride lets you experience Sin City from a unique vantage point. The ride is highlighted by a sparkling wine toast in flight. Book it now!

DAY 3 of Your Itinerary for Las Vegas in 3 Days

This is it, the last day of your 3 Days Las Vegas Trip! Time to experience a few more of the best Vegas attractions and sights before heading home.

Indulge in a Buffet Brunch

A Sin City tradition, feasting at a buffet during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas is practically a requirement. Evolving from all-you-can-eat extravaganzas into classy culinary adventures, buffets in Vegas are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Although the buffet meals are not as cheap as they once were (in fact, a few are quite expensive!), diners can expect a culinary treat. Most of the buffets have meat carving stations, omelet stations, heaps of seafood (including sushi) and delectable dessert tables. In true Sin City style, a few even include bottomless champagne!

Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan, Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace, Bellagio Buffet and The Buffet at Wynn are all top choices! 

Food Tip: If a fancy breakfast buffet is not in your budget, hit up Denny’s for a classic American Grand Slam Breakfast. If you prefer brunch, but not a buffet, then try The Henry for their Short Rib Bene or Alexxa’s where they offer Bottomless Mimosas!

Visit Vegas Attractions

After you have stuffed yourself silly, spend the rest of the morning leisurely taking in more of the top attractions in Vegas. We recommend spending time either on the north or south end of The Strip – but ambitious travelers can likely squeeze in attractions at both ends of The Strip.

South Strip Attractions

Exploring the south end of The Strip is one of our favored daytime activities in Vegas. Casual and entertaining, the South Strip has a lot to offer! We are highlighting a few of our top picks for South Strip sightseeing. 

Roller Coaster at New York New York Hotel

The Big Apple Coaster is a thrilling ride that drops and twists while reaching speeds of 67 miles per hour. But, trust me on this one, you won’t want to go on the ride after a big meal! 

Fine Art Collection at ARIA

ARIA’s Fine Art Collection is featured throughout the resort – not inside a stuffy museum. The artwork is free to all visitors – and you can use this helpful brochure to locate and learn more about each piece. 

M&Ms World

We wouldn’t necessarily say that the 4-story M&Ms Las Vegas store is a must-see in Vegas for first timers, but it is a fun place to visit and pick up personalized souvenirs (plus, it’s free to step inside!).

Mandalay Bay Shark Aquarium

The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay is an exceptional aquarium – and well worth the visit, especially for anyone planning a Vegas vacation for family. Buy your Shark Reef Aquarium tickets in advance !

North Strip Attractions

The north end of The Strip also features a few top attractions for your Vegas itinerary. We are sharing a few of our favorites. 

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

A gondola ride at the Venetian is a perfect addition to a Las Vegas itinerary for couples! The boat pilot serenades passengers as they float along the Grand Canal. 

While at the Venetian, you can also check out the world famous Madame Tussauds wax museum. 

Volcano at Mirage

Another fantastic Las Vegas Strip sight – and one to definitely include on a Las Vegas itinerary for family – is the Mirage Las Vegas Volcano. Watching The Volcano erupt is free, but it only happens in the evenings between 8pm and 11pm (on the hour; check the schedule ) – so be sure to time your visit to catch the action. 

Visit Wynn Hotel and Casino

One of the most luxurious hotels on The Strip, some visitors may be timid about visiting Wynn. We believe it is an absolutely beautiful property; besides, it’s free to walk through! Explore the lobby gardens, gaze at the extravagant floral decorations and gawk at the general swankiness of the hotel. 

Take Part in Top Activities: Tours and Classes

In the afternoon, join a tour or class that captures the essence of Vegas. A guided tour introduces the engaging history of Vegas, while a class teaches participants industry secrets. 

On the intriguing Fremont Tour , visitors get off The Strip and get to discover Downtown Las Vegas. Learn about the origins of Sin City, step into the Fremont Street Experience and find out how the culture has evolved over time. 

On the other hand, if you are planning a Vegas Bachelorette Party Itinerary, book an afternoon Stripper Pole Class for your group of girls! Honestly, I was a little nervous when we included this activity in our Girls Weekend in Las Vegas Itinerary – but it turned out to be incredibly entertaining. Book it here!

Explore Fremont Street at Night

Spend the rest of your Vegas trip on Fremont Street and downtown. While attractions on The Strip are well-known for being ostentatious, Fremont tends to be more laid back…but no less entertaining.

Visitors can take an exhilarating ride on a zip line or swim with the sharks at Golden Nugget. Top museums to visit are the Neon Museum (a collection of historic Vegas signs) and the Mob Museum (which details the city’s history with organized crime).

Historic casinos, modern attractions and a slew of low key bars line the street, enticing visitors to stay longer than just a couple of hours. It’s the perfect way to end your 3 days in Vegas!

Las Vegas Day Trips

While our 3 Days in Vegas Trip Planner doesn’t leave any room for excursions, visitors staying longer – or those on a return trip – may want to consider including a Vegas day trip in their itinerary. 

Grand Canyon Bus Tour

One of the most popular tours from Vegas, trips to the Grand Canyon by bus offers a full day of fun! On a Las Vegas to Grand Canyon itinerary, participants enjoy the ride to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon in a coach bus and make stops at some of the top viewpoints. Optional upgrades on Grand Canyon Itinerary from Las Vegas include the Skywalk and helicopter ride. Find out more!

Hoover Dam from Vegas

Rather than booking an All Day Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Itinerary, embark on a shorter tour of Hoover Dam, one of the most incredible modern-day engineering achievements. On the trip from Vegas, a knowledgeable guide will share information about the dam’s history – once there, visitors can walk across the massive structure.

Plus, this tour makes two extra stops. One at Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign and one on the Colorado River at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a different view of the Hoover Dam. Get more details!

Valley of Fire State Park Hiking Tour

Set off on a half day hiking trip outside of Vegas in Nevada’s oldest state park, Valley of the Fire. A guide leads the way through beautiful desert landscapes, red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs on an easy, moderate or difficult hike. Reserve your space!

Red Rock Canyon Scooter Tour

Explore desert landscapes and phenomenal natural rock formations by scooter on a half-day Vegas trip to Red Rock Canyon. Learn more!

LA and Hollywood from Sin City

Head to California and the West Coast on a full-day trip from Las Vegas! Participants travel in a small group to Los Angeles to see highlighted attractions, such as the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. Get the specifics!

Zion Utah National Parks Itinerary from Las Vegas

Zion National Park is a gem of the Western United States! Although not particularly easy to get to on your own, visitors can join an organized day trip to Zion from Las Vegas that includes transportation, entry fees, free time to explore and a picnic lunch. Find out more!

How Many Days in Las Vegas?

Determining how long you should stay in Vegas will depend on a variety of factors – including interests, budget and overall time-frame. We believe planning a 3 Day Las Vegas Itinerary is the perfect introduction to the city. If you are still considering how many days you need in Las Vegas, use our tips below to decide what attractions are essential to you!

Travel Planning Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your Vegas Trip by using our Travel Planning Printables !

More Vegas Itineraries

While we have outlined the best Vegas Itinerary for 3 Days (especially for Las Vegas First-Timers), we understand that not all visitors are spending 3 days in the city. To help other travelers plan their best Vegas itinerary, we are offering our top tips for longer – and shorter – stays.

Vegas for a Day

Trying to plan what to do with 1 Day in Las Vegas is no easy feat – the choices are endless! We think the best way to plan a Las Vegas One-Day Itinerary would be to follow our above advice on things to see in Vegas on Day 1.

If you arrive early enough, start off with a buffet dining experience (or book The Strip Food Tour ). On a One-Day in Las Vegas Itinerary, you could possibly carve out a little time to spend poolside or in a spa.

Las Vegas Itinerary 2 Days

Many visitors are limited to just 2 days on a Las Vegas Weekend Trip – but can still see and do a lot! Using our tips above in what to do in Las Vegas in three days, create a 2-Day Las Vegas Itinerary that best suits your interests. For example, if you are taking a party trip, plan a Las Vegas 2 Days Itinerary using Days 1 and 2 of our outlined 3-Day Vegas Vacation.

On the other hand, if you are most interested in varied experiences, highlights and attractions during your weekend to Vegas, then the best 2-Day Itinerary Las Vegas for you might be to follow Days 1 and 3 instead.

Alternate Las Vegas Itinerary 3 Days

While we believe we outlined the best things to do in Las Vegas in 3 days, fellow travelers might have other interests. With just a few tweaks to our outline, you can plan a perfect Las Vegas 3 Days Itinerary that suits your personal interests. 

If the Grand Canyon or one of the other day trips is more appealing than partying at the pool or touring attractions on The Strip, then substitute a tour in your plan for Vegas in three days. If gambling and casinos are of zero interest, eliminate them completely and add more sightseeing!

Vegas Itinerary 4 Days

In a 4-Day Itinerary Las Vegas, visitors will have plenty of time to see the top city attractions and go on a day tour! In fact, we think the best Las Vegas 4-Day Itinerary would be to use the tips in our 3 Days Vegas Trip Planner – and then book a day trip to see more of the surrounding region. Otherwise, find another pool to lounge around!

Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days

With 5 days in Las Vegas there is ample time to see the sights, go on a day trip and more! For us, a perfect 5-Day Vegas Itinerary would include our tips above for a 4 Days in Vegas Itinerary, then – on the last day – see any sights and attractions that you skipped in the first four days.

For example, visit more of the iconic casinos, chill by the hotel pool, or ride the roller coaster at New York New York. Essentially, use the last day of your 5 Day Vegas Itinerary as a catch-all to visit any of the sights you were not able to squeeze into your Las Vegas Travel Itinerary in the first four days.

7 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary

With so much on offer, there is no problem planning what to do with 1 week in Las Vegas! To create a Las Vegas Itinerary 7 Days, visitors could approach things at a more leisurely pace.

Rather than going full throttle – like attending a pool party and then going out to clubs – do those activities on two separate days. Spend one full day downtown on Fremont Street, rather than just half a day. And, perhaps, consider adding one more excursion to complete your Las Vegas travel itinerary.

Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas Itinerary

Visitors trying to plan their own Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vegas Itinerary can use our helpful tips in our Weekend in San Francisco article and in our guide to Coastal California .

However, visitors who want to leave the planning to the professionals can book a 7-Day tour of the three cities. Get more info!

Las Vegas Three-Day Itinerary Travel Tips

Now that you know how to plan a travel itinerary for Las Vegas, we have a bit more advice to ensure you pull off that perfect trip!

Las Vegas Tips For First-Timers

Our 3 days in Las Vegas Itinerary is packed with fun things to do for all travelers. However, we have a few first-time Vegas tips to help keep things on track and enjoyable for all!

Stay Hydrated

One of our top Vegas tips for first-timers is to stay hydrated! With an endless flow of drinks and desert sunshine, it is easy for your body to lose fluids and become dehydrated. That can put a real damper on your trip, not to mention, give you a terrible hangover. There are free places to refill – so bring a Collapsible Water Bottle with you.

Stay Together

Everything in Vegas is huge – the casinos, the clubs and the crowds. If you are planning a First-Time Vegas Itinerary with friends or family, stay together! Additionally, have a back up plan or meeting place in case you get separated from your crew or lose your phone.

Watch Your Drinks

Girls – and guys, for that matter – remember to keep an eye on your drinks while at pool parties, dance clubs and even in the casinos. This is a good tip for anyone imbibing anywhere, but especially in a place where you are letting loose and in unfamiliar surroundings. 

Budget Your Vegas Trip

Our last tip for planning your First-Time Las Vegas Itinerary is to create a budget. It is easy to get swept up in spending money in the city. Gambling, partying and sightseeing can all be big expenditures. However, with careful planning (and some restraint), it is possible to plan a trip that will fit nearly every budget.

Free Attractions

If you are seeking free things to do in Vegas, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained! We have already highlighted some of the best free Vegas things to do – but we have a few more money-saving tips.

Walk through the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace for window shopping. Stroll along the canal at the Venetian Resort (rather than riding a gondola). Wander the cobblestone lanes at Paris Hotel and seek out replica landmarks at New York New York.

Travelers with kids should head to Circus Circus, where there are free daily circus act performances. If you have a car, take a short road trip to see the unique and colorful Seven Magic Mountains art installation, with offers free entry. 

How To Get To Vegas

Las Vegas can be reached by plane, bus or car. Having lived in Phoenix, Arizona for several years, we have made the drive between the two cities numerous times. 

Las Vegas Airport

Flights to Vegas land at the McCarran International Airport (LAS), which is located just off the south end of The Strip. The airport is served by all major US airlines and many international carriers. When we need to buy airline tickets, we start our search on SkyScanner for the best deals. We share more tips in our article, Finding Flights for Cheap .

Airport to The Strip

There are several ways to get from the Vegas airport to The Strip hotels. However, properties are not permitted to run their own shuttles, so you will have to book your own. Shared airport shuttles are the least expensive way to get to the Strip, but also generally take the longest.

Taxis, Uber and Lyft pick up passengers from LAS airport as well. However, you can also book Private Round-Trip transport in advance – or, upgrade your arrival with a Limo ride from the airport to your hotel.

How To Get Around

We love to discover cities on foot…but that is problematic in Las Vegas. Not only are the colossal casinos further apart than they appear, but – any time outside of winter – it is very, very hot. Thankfully, there are a few different options when it comes to getting around Las Vegas.

The Monorail is a convenient way to get up and down The Strip – and they offer several ticket options, including single ride, daily passes and multi-day passes, too. The Deuce and SDX are the cheap local buses which cover The Strip and beyond.

Ride-shares are convenient options for getting around – but use designated pick up and drop off points. Vegas visitors can rent a car , but we don’t recommend it if you are sticking mostly to The Strip and Downtown (Fremont) areas.

An entertaining way to combine transport and sightseeing is with the Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Vegas. The open-air, double-decker bus has two routes and makes stops at all the top attractions. Tickets are available for one or two days. Get your tickets!

Where To Stay in Las Vegas for 3 nights

With 3 nights in Vegas, we think it is imperative to stay in a central location on The Strip. Over the years, we have stayed in many different hotels in Las Vegas, even at a few that no longer exist!

We personally like the MGM Grand, which offers reasonable rates, consistently updated rooms and easy access to the Monorail. Located toward the southern end of The Strip, it is well-suited to a variety of guests (from couples to families to bachelor parties). Check rates and availability!

That said, we have also enjoyed staying in the center of The Strip, where some of the best casinos are clustered together for easy access. Affordable options near the center are LINQ, Flamingo and Harrah’s.

Visitors who want a luxury hotel can opt for one of the 5-star hotels in Vegas, like Cosmopolitan, Bellagio, The Venetian and Wynn.

Start your search for Great Vegas Hotels  and use our Top Tips for Booking the Best Hotels !

What To Pack

Deciding what to pack for your 3-day Vegas getaway can be a challenge. If you are going to clubs, you will need stylish clothes and shoes to match. If you plan on taking tours, you will want comfortable outfits. In the end, you may be tempted to pack everything…just in case! Because we don’t recommend over-packing, we do have a few specific packing hacks . 

Comfortable Shoes

If you plan on leaving your casino resort at all, we highly recommend packing comfortable travel shoes . Actually, even if you are staying within one complex, you will likely be doing a lot of walking – the casinos are just that massive.

For daytime walking, I like wearing lightweight and comfortable shoes, like these from Columbia . Foldable Flats are also ideal for Vegas and easy to switch out with heels, if you carry them in your purse!

Sun Protection

The sun in Vegas is intense! Wearing sunscreen at the pool and while touring the city is essential; you don’t want a sunburn to ruin your vacation. To keep the sun off your face, we also recommend wearing a stylish travel hat and good sunglasses . 

Travel Camera

If your Las Vegas Itinerary planner includes any tours, you will definitely want a good travel camera . We suggest the Canon Rebel  with a 18-135mm lens. It is easy to use, takes phenomenal photos and comes bundled with a ton of fun accessories; making it an excellent budget camera .

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you’ll also want to carry a stylish day bag to tote all your water, sunscreen, camera and other everyday items in. We prefer these small backpacks , but there a loads of styles to choose from. We share our top picks in our blog post, Best Day Bags !

Start planning your trip to Las Vegas ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more trip advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Home » North America » Las Vegas

The BEST Las Vegas Itinerary in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

Whilst there remain doubts as to whether conventional time even truly exists in Las Vegas, there is no downside to a minor bit of planning.

And setting up with a great  Las Vegas Itinerary is a sensational start.

Who knows ?!?

Maybe you will even see some of the things you planned to see in the first place…

Ok, you might find yourself curled up underneath an overused slot machine rather than at your 11am golf game, but it’s fun to try right? From the bleak desert landscapes of Red Rock Canyon to the glittering Las Vegas Casinos, there are some true essentials that form the backbone of any good Las Vegas trip…

What mischief awaits you..?

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

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So you’re heading to Las Vegas ? You back yourself at poker or blackjack so vehemently that you can’t afford your accommodation yet?

That is quite honestly a terrible move. Anyway, I am going to be taking you through the biggest and brightest of Las Vegas, from the Bellagio Fountain to the EPIC Las Vegas skyline, with a ton of info, insider tips, and unique places to visit .

This 3-day itinerary is organised with action from day 1! There is a lot to cover, and since Las Vegas is quite expensive, I expect you not to be able to hit every single attraction I’ve laid out. Take the bones, and use what I’ve gathered to give your trip that special X-factor! It should be easy in Vegas.

There is a top selection of things to do in Las Vegas , and definitely not enough time! I’ve added some saucy extras to my list in case your trip sadly ends up being longer than you planned. Oh no 🙂

3-day Las Vegas Itinerary Overview

• Day 1:  The Fabulous Las Vegas Sign | Mandalay Bay Casino | The Republica Statue of Liberty | The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Bellagio Fountains | The High Roller | Cirque Du Soleil | Caesar’s Palace
• Day 2:  Red Rock Canyon | The Stratosphere Casino | Escape Blair Witch | Eiffel Tower Experience | Seven Magic Mountains
• Day 3:  The Mob Museum | Fremont Street | The Venetian | The Adventuredome Theme Park | The Blue Man Group

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, you’re going to want to stay in a location that makes a Las Vegas itinerary as accessible as possible. This vibrant city is full of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, and there are plenty of great places to stay in Las Vegas!

If you want to be close to all the action, the Las Vegas Strip is the place to be. The symbol of Vegas, this strip is lined with many of the city’s iconic landmarks. From the Fountains of Bellagio to the grandiose Caesars Palace and the Egyptian-themed Luxor Hotel, this is the postcard of Las Vegas!

For a more old-timey Vegas feel, we recommend staying in Downtown Vegas . You’ll still find plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops, but with a more low-key feel. There are quite a lot of good Vegas Airbnbs based around here.

Fremont Street in Downtown Vegas is especially popular, and one of the oldest Las Vegas points of interest. Accommodation in this part of the city is more affordable and just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip!

Best Hostel in Las Vegas – Sin City Hostel

Sin City Hostel is located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just a ten-minute walk to the north end of the Las Vegas Strip. There is a bus stop in close proximity that runs 24/7 and will take you to and from the Strip and downtown area. This hostel offers free walking tours and free breakfast! It gets busy, so book well in advance if you are headed to Las Vegas for the weekend.

Best Airbnb in Las Vegas – Angel’s Place (With Outdoor Pool!)

There is no better place for groups and families than this incredible Airbnb. With an awesome outdoor pool and a top location near the strip, this super safe, friendly and comfortable Airbnb will provide everything you need for a great stay! The best part: It’s not even that expensive! There are BBQing facilities, a classy kitchen, and enough beds to sleep 8 guests.

There is also ample parking space, with enough drive room for four cars. Family vacation? Go on.

Best Budget Hotel in Las Vegas – The Carriage House

The Carriage House is a great value for your money! Located just a quick four-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll be close to all the action. This hotel offers spacious rooms and each is equipped with a kitchen or a kitchenette! There is also an outdoor pool, fitness center, and tennis court!

Best Luxury Hotel in Las Vegas – The Bellagio

The Bellagio is located in the heart of Las Vegas! This luxurious hotel and casino offer upscale rooms equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, electronic drapes, bathrobes, a minibar, and more! There is a full-service spa on-site as well as numerous bars and restaurants. This hotel will make your vacation in Las Vegas as lavish as possible!

The hotel itself is just as beautiful as the rooms. You won’t be disappointed. 

Ok, you’ve stumbled through the longest intro on earth, and now it’s time to collect! Here are the best things you can do in Las Vegas. Unless you’re staying for a classy weekend ?

The Fabulous Las Vegas Sign | Mandalay Bay Casino | The Republica Statue of Liberty | The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Bellagio Fountains | The High Roller | Cirque Du Soleil | Caesar’s Palace

Day 1 is all about the strip. There are some things that you gotta do, and Day 1 of your Las Vegas Itinerary is all about ticking those boxes…

8:00 am – Check the Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Every top class Vegas trip starts here. Admittedly, it is seriously touristy, but that shouldn’t stop you from clicking a few picks!

Not only is it pretty essential las Vegas viewing, but it is superbly located upon the Strip, and this gives you a great starting point for the day’s activities. I’d recommend taking the time to stop for an awesome breakfast near the sign.

There are a few great places to mange yourself nearby, including The Egg Shop, Della’s Kitchen and BBQ Mexicana if you fancy a spicy start to the day! If you fancy getting an attraction done early, this is your opportunity to tick the Pinball Hall of Fame off your list! It’s a great little attraction that will start you off before you start playing with the big boys.

• Cost  – Free
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours (with breakfast). The signs not that much to do by itself!
• Getting there  – You can drive or taxi, but there is also the ‘Las Vegas Sign’ bus stop right outside

10:00 pm – Mandalay Bay Casino and Beach

Our second stop for the day is your first chance to get hands on with a Las Vegas Casino. The Mandalay Bay Casino offers all of your favourite table games, including blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette. You’ll also find 1,200 slot and video poker machines! If you fancy a small flutter, I won’t tell.

If you’re with kids, see the Mandalay Bay Beach, an eleven-acre aquatic playground! Swim, splash, and soak up the sun at this popular Vegas attraction. Relax on the lazy river, ride a tide in the wave pool, or lounge in the lagoon. Check out the Beach Bar & Grill and the Bikini Bar for all your favorite pool-side snacks and drinks! This attraction is open seasonally, so if you travel to Las Vegas during the warmer months make sure to check it out!

New to the Mandalay Bay is the Polar Journey Exhibit. Get a glimpse into the earth’s polar regions and animals that call it home. You’ll be immersed through eight interactive exhibits including touch walls, teaching robot penguins, stimulated ice flow, and more excited features! This Las Vegas itinerary stop is fun for all ages!

• Cost  – Free entry, but the beach costs $20 for non-hotel guests.
• How long should I stay here?  It’s easy to spend the whole day here! 2 hours is a good amount, however.
• Getting there  – It’s a fifteen-minute walk from the Las Vegas Sign. There is lots to see en route, so don’t worry about getting bored!

12:00 pm – The Republica Statue of Liberty and Leo the Lion

Continuing our odyssey upon the Strip, as we slowly meander northward, we’re going to hit the Republica Statue of Liberty, and Leo the Lion. Paris Las Vegas is somewhere around here too…

Anyway, this section of the Las Vegas strip is so busy you just have to walk it. Your mind will be left blown and wondering when Alice in Wonderland became a corporate entity. There is so much going on, and every casino has made an effort to stand out from the crowd.

Take the opportunity now to stop for a bit of lunch! There is a superb selection of great restaurants to dine at, and if you fancy something cheap, you shouldn’t have trouble locating something easy either. Try the New York Pizzeria, Panda Express (a classic Chinese fast food), and Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Top munch.

• How long should I stay here?  Lunchtime! Around 1.5 hours should be enough to grab something to eat.
• Getting there  – Heading out into desert heat for another 15 minutes. Sorry guys, but I promise you it is worth it! Yes, we’ll get to the Bellagio…

2:00 pm – Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a truly enchanting and magical attraction in Vegas. The exhibits are beautifully and intricately put together by talented horticulturalists and designers who transform a floral playground into the sights and colours of the different seasons. The aroma is gently fragrant with the sweet smell of flowers in bloom.

The attention to detail is astounding and the passionate display of nature lets your imagination wander! Enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the most picturesque areas in Las Vegas.

This attraction is best enjoyed during the day when you can witness the rays of sunshine streaming in through the glass roof and large windows. However, it is usually less crowded during the later hours of the evening. Pick the time that works best with your Las Vegas itinerary!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours. Again, it’s easy to get lost and trapped inside the Bellagio. Don’t!
• Getting there  – Again, a 20-minute walk up the strip! We’re going to power through…

3:30 pm – Fountains at Bellagio

You might think that choreographed routes in Vegas are limited to showgirls, but even the water can put on a captivating performance! The Fountains at Bellagio provide a dynamic and lively waterworks show!

The fountain projects streams of water that dance with lights and music; the choreography and overall synchronization are highly entertaining! Famous and recognizable musical tunes are chosen to complement this display. Once the sun sets, the lights come on and the show becomes even more delightful!

The fountains are surprisingly large, so you can catch a show from many different places on the Strip. Of course, nothing beats being directly in front of the fountains! Make sure to show up a little early to guarantee a good viewing spot. A lot of hotels facing the Bellagio Hotel will have views of the fountains as well. This free and easily accessible attraction is a must on any Vegas itinerary!

There are shows at regular intervals throughout the day. Monday through Friday the show runs every thirty minutes from 3:00 pm to 8:00, and every fifteen minutes after dark. On Saturdays and Sundays, the start time is earlier but the shows run every thirty minutes during the day and every fifteen-minutes after dark.

• How long should I stay here?  Around five to ten minutes. You can stay for more than one show if you fancy!
• Getting there  – Step outside and grab a great viewing spot!

4:15 pm – High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ

This High Roller observation wheel at the LINQ Hotel and Casino is a 550-foot tall, 520-foot diameter giant Ferris wheel! Located on the Las Vegas Strip, it has been operating since 2014 and is currently the world’s tallest Ferris Wheel!

It features glass-enclosed pod cabins with wonderful 360-degree views of the Strip and the Vegas Valley. The wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one rotation and features 28 spacious cabins. This is a must-do in Vegas for first-timers, there’s really no other experience like it!

Of course, since this is Las Vegas, guests have the option of upgrading their high roller experience to a happy hour ticket! This option includes an in-cabin open bar and a bartender to serve you unlimited drinks for the entire half hour! Guests must be 21 and older to ride in the happy hour cabin.

If you don’t want to purchase an unlimited happy-hour ticket but still want to enjoy a drink, you can also purchase drinks at the wheelhouse bar, located at the base of the giant observation wheel. The best time to experience this attraction is at night so you can see all the lights of Vegas shimmering from above!

Following the wheel, you’re gonna have some time to yourself, so grab a shower, dinner, and some downtime, and be back for your Cirque du Soleil show!

• Cost  – $25 in the day/ $37 at night
• How long should I stay here?  Less than 1 hour
• Getting there  – You’ll never guess, but it is a fifteen-minute walk from the Bellagio…

9:00 pm – Cirque du Soleil

What makes this show to a whole new level is the incorporation of water. The cast is made up of eighty-five acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and divers who perform in and above a one-and-a-half million-gallon pool! You’ll be enchanted by underwater magic for ninety minutes!

The performance is accompanied by a mix of classical Western and world instrumental music. During the show, a live band plays to the side of the stage behind a glass wall. Cirque du Soleil is an entertainment company known for its epic productions and unique staging, and this show is no different!

Located in the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, this show has been in permanent residence since October 1998. Performances are usually given twice a day. If you’re spending a weekend in Las Vegas, we recommend booking your tickets in advance.

Insider Tip: Cirque du Soleil is insanely popular amongst visitors. That’s why it’s important to book your tickets well ahead of time. Luckily, there are multiple shows spread throughout the week and you’ve got plenty to choose from!

• Cost  – Tickets start at $126
• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours
• Getting there  – Shows usually run at 7 and 9:30 most days. Head back to the Bellagio (15 min walk)

11:00 pm onwards – Caesars Palace

It’s a little cheeky for me to add this one to the list, but why not hey? You came to Vegas for a reason. A nightlife you can experience nowhere else…

This Las Vegas Strip Staple has appeared in countless movies including “The Hangover” and “Ironman”. It’s one of the top Las Vegas’ landmarks and has a lot more to offer than just gambling.

Enjoy the architecture as you walk around the massive columns and frescoes paying tribute to the casino’s namesake. The ancient Rome aesthetic of this casino is truly stunning, with gilded and ornate detail everywhere you look!

The spiral escalators at the entrance to the mall are truly enchanting, as is the rest of this mall’s  grand and gilded interior! At the end of the Forum Shops, there is a 50,000-gallon saltwater Atlantis aquarium that features more than 300 colorful tropical fish!

You’ll also find one of Sin City’s most famous nightclubs inside Caesars Palace, Omnia nightclub. This lavish club has frequent celebrity hosts and popular DJs that play throughout the year. It is one of Vegas’ most upscale nightclubs; there are several dance floors and the venue’s rooftop offers unparalleled views of the Strip! Put this stop on your Las Vegas itinerary if you want to experience the best of Vegas nightlife!

Insider Tip: Check out the Fall of Atlantis show, located next to the Atlantis aquarium. This free show recounts the myth of Atlantis and entertains audiences with special effects, including animatronic figures, fire, and water! The show plays every hour on the hour, starting at 11:00 am.

• How long should I stay here?  All night? All week? WHO KNOWS
• Getting there  – Caesar’s palace is a ten-minute walk from the Cirque Du Soleil’s arena in the Bellagio

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Red Rock Canyon | The Stratosphere Casino | Escape Blair Witch | Eiffel Tower Experience | Seven Magic Mountains

Ok, you’ve been to the Strip. You’ve seen a casino. Now it is time to get out into the wilderness. And maybe stop for a cocktail at lunch. Sound ok?

9:30 am – Check out the wilderness of the Red Rock Canyon

You’ve probably had enough of people by now, particularly tourists. Now is your chance to escape most of the crowds, and see some of the extraordinary Nevada scenery.

Since it is so close, it is a massive waste to go! Yes, the casinos are cool, but how about a massive pile of desert rocks? Especially if you’re a stranger to desert landscapes, there is nothing to be lost exploring this awesome example of geology.

The Red Rock Canyon can take up more of a day depending on how much you’re into hiking. You can also hire bikes to explore the area, or even do it by horseback!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 2.5 hours
• Getting there  – It’s a half an hour drive west of central Las Vegas

12:30 pm – Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower

Okay, it’s about lunchtime, so time to head back to the strip for a little lunch and light entertainment.

There are some pretty cool things to do at the Stratosphere Resort and Casino . For one, check out the observation deck that sits at the top of the tallest freestanding tower in the U.S. It offers stunning 360-degree views of the Strip!

Dine at the Top of The World Restaurant, the only rotating fine-dining restaurant in Las Vegas.  Enjoy amazing views of the city as the restaurant revolves 350-degrees every 80-minutes!

Get your scream on at the Stratosphere’s Skypod Thrill Rides. Located on top of the Stratosphere, there are three attractions that guests can ride for an enthralling experience. You’ll dangle over the building, blast 160-feet straight up, and catapult twenty-seven feet over the Tower’s edge! 

For even more of an adrenaline rush, check out Skyjump. At this Vegas attraction, you’ll take an open-air leap off the Stratosphere, from 829-feet above the Strip. Enjoy the heart-pounding excitement as you rush forty mph to the landing pad down below. Make sure to schedule this into your Vegas itinerary for at least three days if you’re into adventurous activities!

• Cost  – The tower is between $20-$30 (depending on the time of week)
• Getting there  – 30 min Drive back from the Red Rock Canyon. I wish there were things to do en route too…

3:00 pm – Try out the Escape Blair Witch escape room

Have you ever fancied scaring yourself completely silly? Testing your wits against a crafty escape room designer? Running away from horrifying actors?

Then you are going to adore heading to the Escape Blair Witch escape room. Right next door is the Saw experience, which is an escape room of the aforementioned theme.

Whilst there is a crazy amount to see on the strip, this will give you an experience that you certainly won’t forget. It’s widely loved, and seems to be great value for money. If you’re thinking about adding this to your Las Vegas itinerary, make sure to book in advance, since slots can get taken quickly, especially in summer months!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1.5 hours.
• Getting there  – Walk around the block! 5-10 minute stroll.

5:00 pm – Eiffel Tower Experience

Get the best view of the Las Vegas Strip with these high-altitude attractions! The Paris Las Vegas is a half-scale replica of the actual Eiffel Tower in Paris. You’ll ride a glass elevator forty-six stories up to the top, which allows you to get an unobscured view of your surroundings.

The Paris Las Vegas is located in the middle of the Strip, making this a great place to take stunning photos of Vegas main attractions close-up. Guests are allowed to stay at the top as long as they’d like!

This enchanting tower puts on a show of lights every thirty-minutes from sunset to midnight. Inspired by the real Eiffel Tower’s lights in France, it features choreographed twinkling light displays for visitors to enjoy each night!

Insider Tip: This attraction is best enjoyed at night, you’ll see incredible views of the Las Vegas Strip lite up with a shimmering of lights and get the best views of the Bellagio fountains!

• Cost  – $22 per person
• How long should I stay here?  Less than an hour
• Getting there  – 10 minute Taxi or drive from the Escape room/ Stratosphere Casino. Alternatively you can grab a bus to the ‘Las Vegas at the Paris’ bus stop.

7:00 pm – Top your Insta up at the Seven Magic Mountains

Heading out for sunset at the Seven Magic Mountains is an influencer worthy occupation. Or just something fun to do. There is nothing weirder than a bloke who has stacked some multicoloured rocks in a desert, and you get to enjoy this bizarre spectacle!

The art installation cost $3.5 million of state taxpayers’ money to install, and that is most likely one of the reasons why people make such a massive fuss of it. What greater to way to spend your time than to see how your tax dollars are being wasted?!?

Anyway, it is artistic and cool, so drop by for a wicked sunset! This multi-coloured exhibit has a very strange appeal. Afterwards, get a relaxed evenings rest. The 3rd day is again pretty full on!

• Getting there  – It’s a 25 minute drive south from the Eiffel tower experience.

Sin City Hostel

Sin City Hostel is located on Las Vegas Boulevard, just a ten-minute walk to the north end of the Las Vegas Strip. If you prefer to stay in hostels, we have a curated guide of the best hostels in Las Vegas.

• Free Breakfast

The Mob Museum | Fremont Street | The Venetian | The Adventuredome Theme Park | The Blue Man Group

The Las Vegas itinerary is shaping up pretty well so far. Day 3 is for Downtown Las Vegas, and cleaning up the places in the strip that you haven’t got round to doing yet.

8:30 am – Walk the Mob Museum

The Mob Museum seeks to advance the understanding of organized crime, and the impact it has had on American society. Explore this Las Vegas hidden gems , learn real-life stories, and hear about actual events from the Mob’s history.

Take a self-guided tour where you’ll see interactive exhibits, informative displays, and videos – all you need is an entry-ticket!

The museum spans three-floors; as of 2018 a fully operational speakeasy and distillery exhibit is now open for visitors in the basement. Learn about the history of American prohibition while sipping on hand-crafted prohibition-era cocktails!

Warning : This museum displays graphic photos of murder victims, therefore this attraction is not recommended for children.

• Cost  – Tickets are $32.50
• How long should I stay here?  Around 2 hours. There is a lot to see, and it’s undoubtedly one of the coolest attractions around.
• Getting there  – Located in the centre of Downtown Las Vegas, it’s right next to the ‘Mob Museum’ bus stop.

10:45 am – The Fremont Street Experience

Discover old-school Vegas at the Fremont Street Experience. Located in historic Downtown Las Vegas, this is one of the city’s original streets; it dates back to 1905 when Las Vegas was founded! 

Today, Fremont Street offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere. This seven-block district possesses theworld’s largest LED video screen, called Viva Vision. This 1,500-feet long and 90-feet wide screen canopies over the street and shimmers with bright, changing lights!

The Slotzilla zip-line lets you fly over Fremont street like a superhero (or a seated position if you prefer). Get a unique view of one of Vegas’ most popular streets as you glide over the crowd!

You’ll see all sorts of street performers on this energetic street. From rappers and Vegas showgirls, to cartoon characters; Fremont Street really has it all! This is one of the best places to people watch, you’ll see people dressed in all sorts of costumes. Some are hilarious, some amusingly unconventional, and some…not for kids.

Most of the bars, restaurants, and casinos found on Fremont Street are slightly less expensive than those found on The Strip. This is also a great place to pick up your Vegas souvenirs at an affordable price!

Live music shows play regularly in designated areas of the street. Grab a drink at any number of bars found nearby and enjoy some free entertainment! You should be able to get a great lunch here too!

• How long should I stay here?  Around 3 hours. There is a ton to do and see here! (And lunch)
• Getting there  – It’s a six minute walk from the mob museum.

2:00 pm – Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian

This picturesque shopping mall features cobblestone walkways and an illuminated painted ceiling made to reflect the sky. The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian feature a quarter-mile-long stretch of shops and restaurants with more than 160 signature stores, including many luxury brands.

There are a handful of restaurants, many led by award-winning chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse! You don’t have to be a fan of shopping to enjoy the shops’ Old World Italian design.

For a fun and romantic Vegas activity, take a Venetian gondola ride! Float beneath bridges, under balconies, and beside cafes as your singing gondolier glides through the Grand Canal in an authentic Venetian gondola!

Explore the vibrant Venetian streetscape inside the shopping center, or choose the outdoor gondola ride and experience the open-air right on the Las Vegas Strip! Couples especially will love this romantic addition to their itinerary for Las Vegas! This is definitely amongst the most kitsch things to do in Las Vegas but is still unmissable.

• Cost  – Free. Gondola tickets start at $29.00 per person
• How long should I stay here?  Around 2 hours
• Getting there  – It’s a 10 minute cab from downtown Las Vegas

4:00 pm – Adventuredome Theme Park

This indoor theme park is located in the Circus Circus Resort and Casino. The theme park sits inside a large pink-tinted glass dome. There are twenty-five rides and attractions at the park, including roller coasters, a miniature golf course, climbing walls, a roller skating rink, and laser tag!

Check out the latest arcade video games located throughout the park, including virtual reality games! Find your favorite classic arcade games in their unlimited classic arcade area, where you can play all day!

Enjoy free clown shows daily at noon, 1pm, 3pm, and 4pm, with additional showtimes on Friday and Saturday nights.

If you’re looking for a break from the casinos and bars, this is the perfect place to bring the family for an afternoon of fun and excitement! You could easily spend hours here, so we’d recommend this stop if your planning an itinerary to spend more than three days in Las Vegas.

• Cost  – Undefined, possibly $$$$. $60 for adults, $30 for kids. Plus extras.
• How long should I stay here?  2 or 3 hours.
• Getting there  – It’s a 7 minute drive, or a 25 minute walk from the Venetian

8:00 pm – The Blue Man Group

If you want to add another show to your Las Vegas itinerary, we recommend the entertainment sensation known as the Blue Man Group. For more than thirty years the innovative minds behind this group have been wowing audiences.

Enjoy a fun-filled performance by this world-famous group! These three bald and blue men will take you on a spectacular journey combining comedy, music, stunning visuals, and surprises! This Las Vegas show is perfect for all ages, and is sure to delight. It’s a one-of-a-kind stage show that is the perfect addition to a Las Vegas trip!

Enjoy a comical, musical,  and artistic show featuring lots of audience interaction with this blue-painted cast. This group is constantly switching up their material and coming up with new ways to entertain audiences, it’s an ever-evolving show that you’ll want to see every time you visit Vegas! 

• Cost  – Spenny! $180 per ticket…
• Getting there  – The show is located at the Luxor Hotel and Casino

Oh no! You’ve missed your bus! How are you going to spend your extra days in Las Vegas while you wait for the next one? Let’s see…

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas is known for its lavish resorts, buzzing casinos, and world-class restaurants, but to discover the true essence of Vegas we recommend exploring the areas outside these busy buildings!

The entire Strip is less than five miles, but don’t worry, you don’t have to walk its entirety to experience the uniqueness of this extravagant street. Although, if you choose to, the whole street is pedestrian-friendly. There are footbridges at all main intersections for pedestrians to safely cross!

Both sides of the Strip are lined with hotels, casinos, shops, restaurants, and just about anything you can imagine! You’ll see a wide range of street performers and be able to take pictures of all the iconic Vegas attractions!

The whole Strip runs in a straight line, making it easy to give yourself your own Las Vegas walking tour! Of course, if you’re not keen on walking, there are other options. Joining an open-top bus tour will give you the ultimate strip experience without tiring your feet!

Insider Tip: Police allow people to walk down the Strip and the Fremont Street Experience with alcoholic beverages, as long as they’re in plastic containers (no bottles or cans). Also, there are many dispensaries around the Strip, but smoking in public isn’t legal. 

• How long should I stay here?  
• Getting there  –

Head out to the Grand Canyon

If you’re in Vegas, you ain’t far from the Grand Canyon! Admittedly, it is still a long way to go (around a 4 hour car journey each way), but the views are definitely worth it! The scenery on the drive is pretty epic too.

Encompassing 278 miles of the Colorado river, the Grand Canyon is an extraordinary sight, and is on pretty much every tourists must-visit list! Even though it can get busy, it is still very much worth seeing. Don’t let the distance put you off!

You can even take a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon, complete with picnic lunch at the bottom (large-insanely large level budgets only).

• Cost  – Free (or $$$ if you tour)
• How long should I stay here?  At least as long as you spend getting there. (min. 4 hours)
• Getting there  – 4 hour drive east of Las Vegas. Sadly.

Las Vegas is alive with tourism all year. Summers do reach higher temperatures, but lots of Las Vegas attractions take place inside air-conditioned buildings or outside next to a pool! No matter the season, there’s always something to do in Vegas!

The summer months (June-August) produce hot temperatures. It’s not uncommon for the weather to stay around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Luckily, the weather drops down at night and becomes much more enjoyable.

Fall (September-November) is a great time to plan a trip to Las Vegas. The weather is mild and enjoyable.

You’ll want a light jacket during the winter months (December – February). Although temperatures never get too cold, the air does get a bit chilly, especially at night.

Spring (March-May) produces warm days and blue skies. If you’re trying to decide when to visit Las Vegas, this is another great time!

During your first day in Las Vegas, you’re going to need to figure out how to get around! Luckily, this city is extremely tourist friendly, and all forms of transportation are easy to use and very convenient.

The Las Vegas Deuce is a bus that runs throughout the city. There are two buses that run specifically through the areas of the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown. Take the ‘Deuce on the Strip’ bus for convenient transportation to many of the properties located on the Strip.

Uber and Lyft are popular ride-sharing services and offer travelers an easy and convenient form of transportation. Most Las Vegas resorts, hotels, and casinos will have designated pick-up and drop-off areas that you will need to find to catch a ride. These areas are usually marked with signs near the hotel’s entrances/exits. Be sure to find these areas before hailing your ride (I know, but it happens)

Las Vegas is a very pedestrian friendly city. The main attraction in Las Vegas is the Strip, which is literally a single street. You can walk up and down the Strip to see the main highlights of Vegas, and it’s extremely easy to navigate!

Whether you’re planning a three day trip to Vegas or a month long sabbatical, you’re going to want to make sure you pack the right gear !

Remember that Vegas gets hot, so if you’re visiting in Summer, you can spare the coats. It is in the middle of a desert after all!

In terms of safety, Vegas is a cash-heavy city, which means pickpockets are active. Keep your valuables close to your body and stay extra vigilant in crowded areas.

It is common for party promoters to frequent the Strip and attempts to sell VIP passes or discounted tickets to shows or clubs. Although some are legit, it is important to note that some are not.

Scammers are very active in Las Vegas and it is important to stay vigilant and trust your instincts. There are a number of secure and trusted ticket locations in the city that sell tickets to Vegas attractions; purchasing from these types of vendors is a much safer option.

Of course, it is Vegas, so if you plan to drink more than you normally would, try and keep your wits about you, and never leave your drink unattended.

Recreational marijuana is legal in Vegas. Be sure to purchase from a dispensary, and say no to anyone on the street that tries to sell to you as it may be laced. It’s only legal to smoke in private residences. If you walk down the street with a lit joint, you can be fined by one of the many cops.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Las Vegas

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Las Vegas itinerary.

What is the Coolest Things you can do on a Trip to Vegas?

Try visiting Caesar’s Palace and its sensational multi-storey nightclub, hiking in Red Rock Canyon, and enjoying the waterpark at the Mandalay hotel. There are a ton of really cool things to do in Vegas, so just keep your eyes peeled on the strip, and you will stumble onto any number. Heading to downtown Las Vegas is a great option too, for the Mob museum and Fremont Street.

What attractions should I not forget when Planning a Trip to Vegas?

The Mob Museum is often overlooked, as is the pinball hall of fame. When people go to Vegas, they often forget about Red Rock Canyon, and that the Death Valley National Park isn’t too far away either! If you are looking for incredible scenery, don’t ignore either of these unbelievable places!

What should I include on a Las Vegas Itinerary for 3 days?

Don’t miss the fabulous Las Vegas Sign, the Mandalay Hotel and Casino, the Bellagio’s botanical gardens and fountain shows, or Caesar’s Palace. There is so much to take your attention on the strip, so don’t worry if you spend all 3-days wondering up and down. Try and get out to Red Rock Canyon and the Seven Magical Mountains at some point though.

How many days do you need in Las Vegas?

You can be sure to see all the main highlights in 3-4 days if you plan your time.

Las Vegas is a popular vacation destination offering the best mix of entertainment, good weather, and fun attractions. Pulsing with energy and buzzing with excitement, a Vegas vacation makes for the perfect holiday getaway!

Although this city has a reputation for wild parties, buzzing casinos, and crazy nightlife, there is so much more to this unique and diverse city. From world-class restaurants and trendy shopping malls, to unreal shows, there’s something for all ages to enjoy!

We hope you three days in Vegas helps you tick off all the boxes of your Sin City bucket list. This larger-than-life city is the perfect place to take an exciting and memorable vacation. There’s really no place quite like Vegas!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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Beautiful Las Vegas so Amazing!!!! We have a wonderful time in Vegas

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Las Vegas Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

But there’s more to visiting Sin City than just the Strip. This city is home to a growing art scene, incredible shows, an amazing mix of restaurants, events, nearby hiking, and history. The downtown area is being revived, there’s so much good food here (did I mention that? lol), and friendly people.

This travel guide to Vegas can help you navigate the city on a budget and show you that there’s more to Vegas than the Strip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Las Vegas

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Las Vegas

1. Take in a show

Vegas does entertainment better than anywhere else. You can find some of the best acts in the world here, from magic shows to comedy acts, circus performances to musicals. It’s often a good idea to book tickets with your accommodation as it can work out to be cheaper. Use Tix4Vegas (operated by Tix4Tonight) to find tickets for shows that night for up to 50% off. They have booths at Showcase Mall, Bally’s Grand Bazaar, and Casino Royale.

2. Experience Fremont Street

Fremont Street is where Vegas was born. The city’s first hotel opened up here in 1906, it became the city’s first paved street in 1925, and the first gaming license was issued to an establishment on Fremont in 1931. Today, Fremont Street offers a very different scene from the Strip, with dive bars, older casinos, and more of a New Orleans Bourbon Street vibe. It’s a great area for entertainment, people-watching, and cheap drinks. The Fremont Street Experience (FSE) on the western end of the street is a pedestrian mall with nightly light shows and street performances.

3. Splurge on a meal

Las Vegas has some of the best food in the world. With all that money flowing in, it is easy to see why. You can find every type of cuisine and every type of restaurant here, from Michelin-starred restaurants to gigantic, bottomless brunch buffets. A trip here isn’t complete without at least one fine dining experience. My favorite restaurants are Yellowtail (Bellagio), Lemongrass (Aria) The Peppermill, and Firefly.

4. Head to Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

Completed in 1936, the Hoover Dam is the country’s largest reservoir. Its massive curved wall towers 726 feet (221 meters) above bedrock and holds back over 9 trillion gallons of water in Lake Mead. It is an impressive feat of engineering, and the dam’s hydroelectric generators provide power to Nevada, Arizona, and California. This project was an important part of how the desert states of the Southwest were able to develop. The dam is free to see but the visitor center with its exhibits and observation deck costs $10 USD. A guided tour of the power plants and dam costs $30 USD. This will take you through the tunnels and you’ll get to ride the original elevator. You’ll visit the viewing platform and even get to see the massive Colorado River from inside the dam.

5. Visit the Neon Museum

This outdoor lot is brimming with the huge neon signs that once beckoned you into casinos like the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. The museum recently expanded and now features more signs, a park, and guided tours of their collection. For each sign, there are displays to read about its story and significance in Vegas history. Daytime admission is $20 USD and nighttime tours cost $25 USD. Make reservations in advance as this is a very popular attraction and it often sells out. The museum also offers “Neon Night Flights,” nighttime helicopter tours of Vegas’s neon lights (tickets start at $199 USD, which includes a guided tour and light show at the museum).

Other Things to See and Do in Las Vegas

1. take a trip to the grand canyon.

You can combine a trip to the Grand Canyon with an outing to Hoover Dam if you take one of the many coach tours (start around $110 USD). These take an entire day as the canyon isn’t that close to the city. Since they are over 250 miles (400 kilometers) away (a tour of the Canyon and Hoover Dam can easily take up to 14 hours). While I think the Grand Canyon deserves its own trip, if this is the closest you can get to it, a rushed visit is better than no visit. Tours with Get Your Guide take around 10 hours and cost $165 USD.

If possible, rent a car instead . That will give you more flexibility and will likely be cheaper if you can split a rental.

2. Explore Shark Reef Aquarium

As one of the most prestigious sea-life centers in the world, Shark Reef Aquarium is a must-see. Shark Reef tunnel, which is designed to look like a sunken ancient shipwreck, allows you to come face to face with over 2,000 species of sharks, sawfish, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, and rare golden crocodiles. Holding over 1.3 million gallons, the aquarium’s main tank is one of the largest in North America. The aquarium is located in the Mandalay Bay Resort and tickets cost $29 USD for admission and a VR experience . There’s also an option to add the experience of feeding sharks or stingrays. Prices for the add-ons start at $65 USD.

3. See Vegas from The STRAT

Offering the best views of Vegas, The STRAT is the tallest free-standing observation tower in the US. If you’re feeling brave, consider trying the rides at the top. The aptly named X-Scream propels you headfirst 27 feet over the edge of the tower and leaves you hanging 850 feet in the air. Admission to the Sky Pod Observation Deck costs $20 USD. Adding a “Thrill Ride” is as little as $1 per ride, depending on the time of day, while Sky Jumps (think bungy jumping) start at $149 USD.

4. Hike Red Rock Canyon

If the bright lights of Vegas get too much for you, head out to Red Rock Canyon for a day of hiking. A road rings the canyon, and each trailhead has a parking lot where you can leave your car to go hike before driving to the next trailhead. At 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long, the Calico Tanks trail is the most popular in the area. You pass a natural water tank on the way, which leads up to a summit offering a great view of Las Vegas. Make sure to come early in the morning before it gets too hot, and bring a lot of water, a hat, and sunscreen. The entrance costs $20 USD per vehicle (or $5 USD if you’re a pedestrian), and the scenic loop is open from 6am to at least 5pm. Other popular trails worth checking out are the Ice Box Trail (2.6 miles/4 kilometers), Keystone Thrust (2.2 miles/3.5 kilometers), and the White Rock-Willow Spring Loop (4.4 miles/7 kilometers).

If you’d rather splash out than hik, helicopter tours over Red Rock last 2-3 hours and cost $239 USD.

5. Check out the Mob Museum

Las Vegas started with the mafia. Bugsy Segel built the Flamingo and, since then, the mob has controlled Vegas (see the movie Casino , which is based on a true story). With the rise of mega-resorts, the mob has less influence these days, however, there would be no Vegas without the mafia. This detailed, eye-opening museum showcases the history of the mob and Vegas. It’s super informative! Don’t miss The Underground, a speakeasy and distillery underneath the museum where you can try Prohibition-era cocktails with moonshine crafted on-site. Fun fact: my family used to be involved with the mob out in Vegas. Admission is $34.95 USD (save $10 USD on admission by buying “happy hour” tickets online and visiting after 5pm Sunday-Friday or before 11am on Saturday).

6. See the Mirage Volcano

Set to its own soundtrack, this man-made volcano erupts finely choreographed fireballs and smoke 100ft into the air from the waters below, turning the waterfall to molten lava. It’s located at the Mirage (on the Strip) and has been erupting since the hotel opened in 1989. The volcano show happens nightly at 8pm, 9pm, 10pm, and 11pm. It’s one of the many free nightly displays on the Strip that hotels use to attract and captivate visitors.

7. Visit the Venetian

The Venetian Las Vegas is a luxury hotel, resort, and casino that, with a staggering 7,092 rooms, is the 2nd-largest hotel in the world. The architecture and construction of this casino are magnificent and one of the best on the Vegas Strip. While gondola rides are super cheesy, overpriced, and touristy (just like in Venice !), it’s worth spend some time walking through here. It’s super pretty and makes for a good stroll. Plus, it’s free!

8. Watch the Bellagio Fountain Show

The Bellagio resort offers a magnificent nightly light and water display set to music. The show has 4,792 lights and uses 1,214 water nozzles to send jets of water soaring as high as 460 feet (140 meters) across the 8.5-acre man-made lake in front of the hotel. I think it’s overhyped (probably due to Ocean’s 11 ), so while I wouldn’t make my night revolve around it as some people do, it’s worth seeing if you’re nearby. Check the Bellagio website for showtimes.

9. Hang out in Boulder City

Along the way to the Hoover Dam, this suburb offers a taste of local life in the area. Milo’s is the hot restaurant in this town. Check out the Public Art Scape, which consists of more than thirty unique sculptures spread throughout the town. You can also visit the free Hoover Dam Museum. It’s designed to give you a glimpse into the lives of the men and women who settled the town and built the dam during the Great Depression. Take a walk or bike along the Historic Railroad Trail that takes you through the tunnels and along the railroad bed that was used to move the materials needed to build the Hoover Dam. If you’re a golfer, there are a few courses around as well. There’s also a main street and some shopping you can do. Strolling around this quiet little community is a nice contrast to the crowds of Vegas.

10. Go golfing

There are many golf courses in Vegas, including Shadow Creek, considered one of the best and most expensive courses in the world (it costs $1000 – $1,250 USD to golf here). If you aren’t a member of any local clubs, many of the casinos can arrange day passes. You can find tee times starting at $30 USD per person on weekdays.

11. Get artistic at First Friday

On the first Friday of every month, the downtown area fills up with exhibits and displays from local artists during First Friday. It’s free and a great way to get a sense of the local art scene as well as mix with locals. The event hosts live music, food trucks, and vendors selling their various creations. It’s a great way to see what life looks like for the people who live and work in Las Vegas. Be sure also to check out Arts District 18B, the arts center of Las Vegas, which is home to cool bars, shops, galleries, and more.

12. Visit the Pinball Hall of Fame

If you’ve got nostalgia for the vintage-style pinball machines of your childhood arcade days, visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame (near the Strip) is a must. After moving to a new location in 2021, this museum now spans 25,000 square feet and is dedicated entirely to classic pinball games. Admission is free, though playing the games does cost money. Make sure you bring lots of quarters!

13. Come for the Life is Beautiful Festival

Life is Beautiful is a huge music and arts festival that takes place every September in downtown Las Vegas. You get all the big-name musicians, but there’s also lots of unique entertainment – Bill Nye and Rosario Dawson are just two of the festival’s past guests. Plus, the whole downtown core gets transformed into an open-air art gallery as street artists make the city their canvas. Even if you’re visiting after the festival is over, you still get to appreciate these artworks.

14. Check out the Arts Factory

Located in the Arts District downtown, the Arts Factory is a stark contrast to the glitz and glam of the Strip. Inside this 50-year-old warehouse, you’ll find galleries, studios, and all kinds of live art events (poetry readings, plays, etc.). While First Friday is the most active time to visit, you can really visit anytime. The exhibitions are always changing so there’s always something new going on. Check their website for an up-to-date schedule. It’s free to visit too.

15. Have fun at Area15

This immersive entertainment complex is hard to describe. It’s kind of like an indoor theme park and performance venue and retail center all rolled into one. There are events and performances (live music, drag shows), as well as dance party events with DJs. There are bars inside (including a bar and arcade combined) as well as several games and activities (like ax throwing). In short, it’s a huge complex with all kinds of weird and wonderful things to do. It’s free to enter, and then you pay for whatever activities you want to do. If you plan to go on a Friday or Saturday night after 10pm, book your activities in advance, as otherwise, you’ll have to pay $10 USD to get into the complex.

Las Vegas Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are currently only a couple of hostels in Vegas. During peak season, a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm room starts at $45 USD. For a room with 8 beds or more, expect to pay around $40 USD. During the off-season, a bed in a room with 8 beds or more costs around $30 USD a night, and a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm is about $40 USD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and both hostels here have kitchens for cooking your own meals. Neither offers private rooms.

Budget hotel prices – You can find tons of cheap budget hotel options in Vegas near the Strip or downtown. Budget two-star hotels start around $90 USD in peak season and $65 USD off-peak when you factor in resort fees which usually add around $30 per night to the listed price.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Vegas, but not many are located near the Strip. Plus, there are so many high-end hotels offering low prices, you don’t really need to consider Airbnb. A private room starts around $60 USD per night while entire homes/apartments start at $100 USD. Expect to pay double (or triple) if you don’t book early.

Food – You can find everything in Vegas, from comfort food to international eats, fast food to luxury plates. It’s all here. In Chinatown, not far from the Strip, you’ll find traditional dim sum and plenty of reasonably priced places to get a good meal. One of the great things about Las Vegas is you can find food at all hours, especially in the main tourist areas.

If you’re on a budget, you can find cheap eats in Vegas at hotels and casinos where there are buffets costing $25-35 USD. While not exactly cheap, you can really fill up on food here and likely skip a meal later.

Towards the middle of the Strip near Horseshoe, there are a number of cheap chain restaurants like Chipotle, McDonald’s, and Subway where you can find cheap fast food. Slices of pizza go for about $6 USD and you can find burgers for $10 USD. Chinese takeout is $12-15 USD for a combination plate, which includes an entree, egg roll, and rice.

Vegas has lots of mid-range dining options, especially around downtown and Fremont Street. You can dine out for $15-20 USD per main course, including meat and pasta dishes.

A beer costs about $5-8 USD (but if you want to really save money, grab a beer from a corner store for less than $5 USD — you can drink on the street here). A glass of wine is $11-14 USD (at least). Cocktails are $13-16 USD in a restaurant or cocktail bar, but there are plenty of places to find cheap drinks around the Strip and Fremont, especially during happy hours.

A latte/cappuccino costs around $5.50 USD while bottled water is around $2 USD.

Vegas has some of the best high-end dining restaurants in the world, and you really should splurge on at least one good meal. You can get a prix-fixe three-course meal starting around $100 USD and can spend more than $500 for a meal in this city! But you can also get really delicious meals with two courses for about $55 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay $50-65 USD per week for groceries including pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Two of my favorite restaurants here are Lotus of Siam and Esther’s Kitchen.

Backpacking Las Vegas Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Vegas, expect to spend $80 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, using public transportation to get around, cooking your own meals, limiting your drinking, and doing free activities like the fountain shows and wandering Fremont. If you plan on drinking, add at least $10-20 USD to your budget per day.

A mid-range budget of $195 USD per day covers staying in a budget hotel or private Airbnb, eating out most of your meals at cheap restaurants, enjoying the occasional buffet, having a few drinks, gambling a bit, and doing some paid attractions such as seeing Hoover Dam or going to a concert.

On a “luxury” budget of $405 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel on the Strip, eat out at mid-range restaurants, drink more, see more shows, and rent a car to go on a trip to the Grand Canyon. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Las Vegas Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

You can visit Las Vegas on a budget if you’re mindful of your spending. However, you can easily burn through money really, really quickly here if you aren’t careful (two drinks at the bar could cost you $40 USD!). Here are some ways to stay on a budget in Vegas:

• Skip the weekend – Most people visit Las Vegas on a Friday or Saturday and stay for the weekend, which means this is the most expensive time to visit. By visiting the city during the week, you can enjoy significantly reduced room rates and restaurant prices.
• Gamble responsibly – It’s Vegas, so of course, you want to risk a few dollars in a casino. Just don’t go wild. Only gamble what you can comfortably afford to lose because the house always wins.
• Get comps – If you’re gambling, casinos often reimburse some of your losses in the form of meals, discounted show tickets, and rooms. Make sure to ask about these!
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards and use those points when you travel. There’s nothing better than free accommodation and most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free. This post can help you get started with the basics so you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
• Use coupons – Coupons are almost a currency in Las Vegas; casinos give you a book of them when you sign up for a (free) players card, and you can find 2-for-1 offers on meals in restaurants on the Strip.
• Don’t pay cabs with a credit card – Many taxis charge a $3 USD service charge when you pay with a credit card. Avoid the charge by paying cash.
• Eat at the buffet – To fill up on food, stick to the all-you-can-eat buffets. They cost about $25-35 USD per meal and you can really pack it on!
• Eat cheap at 5-star restaurants – Prime-time seating at the Strip’s five-star restaurants is between 8-10pm, but these hot spots like to be full all the time, so most have both happy hour and pre-show menus to kick off their evenings between 4pm-7pm.
• Go to Late Night Happy Hour – Most Vegas restaurants stop serving food by 10:30pm, but there are so many performers finishing up about that time that the Strip has a tradition of the post-10pm (or 11pm, depending on the place) “late night happy hour,” with food and drinks starting around $5 USD.
• Do brunch – A boozy brunch is a Sin City staple. The best ones come with unlimited food and drinks on the weekends. (I order my mimosas bottomless and tell them to “hold the juice.”)
• Drink at the casino before hitting the club – To cut down on expensive drinks at the clubs, drink on the casino floor. The drinks are free as long as you’re playing one of the games. Sit down at a penny slot machine, play slow, and drink fast. You can have 10 drinks for the price of one at the club! Just make sure you tip the waitress.
• Get discount tickets to shows – My favorite part about staying near the Strip is getting to see so many shows. Tix4Vegas has booths at Showcase Mall, Bally’s Grand Bazaar, and Casino Royale. There you can find tickets for shows that night for up to 50% off. You can also get them online too.
• Get the Go City Las Vegas Pass – This pass allows you to see a large number of attractions (and includes a free hop-off, hop-on tour as well as transportation on The Deuce). A two-day pass is $154 USD, a three-day pass is $264 USD, and a five-day pass is $344 USD with nearly fifty attractions to choose from. Some of the things you can enjoy with this pass are a free tour of the Hoover Dam, free entrance to Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., and free entry to the Eiffel Tower experience.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi — especially if you’re going to/from the airport.
• Hang out on Fremont Street – Drinks on the Strip are pricey. Save money by drinking down on Fremont. Drinks are much cheaper there!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – Vegas gets super hot (you’re in the desert after all!) so bring a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated. The tap water is safe, but you can use a filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is always clean.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Vegas only has a couple hostels since most people who come here want to live like a rock star for a few days. You can often find mid-week deals at local hotels and casinos for the same price or less than the hostel and be closer to all the action. Just be aware that most casinos also have a resort fee. If you want to stay in a hostel, here are my recommended places to stay:

• Sin City Hostel

How to Get Around Las Vegas

Public Transportation – Most of the Strip is connected via tunnels and walkways, but when it’s too hot, the monorail is a good option for getting around. The monorail stops at seven different points on the Vegas Strip, including several different major hotels. A one-way ride is $5.50 USD, while a one-day pass is $13.45 USD. You can buy up to a seven-day pass, depending on how long you’re staying.

The bus system in Vegas is known as The Deuce. It’s one of the best ways to get between downtown and the Strip, with the two main routes are The Deuce on the Strip and the SDX. A single-ride is $4 and a two-hour bus pass is $6 USD, while a 24-hour pass is $8 USD. A three-day pass is $20 USD. You can buy tickets on the bus, from ticket vending machines, or on the rideRTC, Lyft, and Uber apps.

The city also provides a free shuttle service that stops at many of the main districts and attractions. The Las Vegas Downtown Loop runs Monday-Thursday, 11am-6pm, and Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm-10pm.

Taxis – Taxis start at $3.50 USD to start and go up by $2.76 USD per mile. Many taxis also charge a processing fee of around $3 USD if you don’t pay cash. Also, if you take a taxi from the airport there is a $2 USD surcharge. Fixed rates from the airport start at $17-27 USD per zone and go up from there. Since traffic here can be a pain it’s best to just skip the taxis if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around the city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. They do add up though so skip them if you can.

When to Go to Las Vegas

Vegas is busy all year-round, but especially during the winter months when the rest of North America comes seeking Nevada’s hot, desert temperatures.

Spring and fall temperatures are pleasant, with highs averaging between 69-82°F (20-28°C). There are a lot of festivals and outdoor events during these seasons. The Electric Daisy Festival, a huge electronic music festival, happens in May. Both the iHeart Radio and Life is Beautiful music festivals happen in September.

Summer is a scorcher, with temperatures reaching 105°F (40°C). It’s a good time to visit though because prices are lower. All the casino resorts and indoor spaces are well-equipped with air conditioning to keep you cool. Many of the resorts have pools and shaded areas outdoors as well.

It’s especially busy in Las Vegas during the week between Christmas and New Years’ and also at the end of January when a lot ofthe conventions are in town. March in Vegas can be total chaos when Spring Break and college basketball hits so, if you want lower prices and fewer crowds, definitely do not come during these times!

How to Stay Safe in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a safe place to visit, including if you’re a solo traveler or solo female traveler. Violent attacks are rare, but like all big cities, practice caution wherever you go. Vegas does have some gang violence, but if you stick to Fremont Street and the Strip you likely won’t come in contact with it.

As a general rule, don’t walk alone at night in unlit places and keep your valuables secure at all times. Keep an eye on your wallet while in large crowds on Fremont Street or on public transportation.

Be wary of buying things from street vendors. This is especially true for event tickets as the tickets are often fake.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Worried about getting ripped off? Read about common travel scams to avoid here (though there aren’t too many scams here).

If you’re hiking, always bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer. If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. While break-ins are rare, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Las Vegas Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Las Vegas Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
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One Day in Las Vegas: Detailed Itinerary (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Visiting Las Vegas (Nevada, USA) and wondering what to see, what’s worth it the most, and how to plan your time if you only have a day in Vegas? In this guide, we share a suggested 1-day Las Vegas itinerary that gives you a good introduction to the city. Find out!

World-known for its casinos and a huge array of entertainment options, the City of Sin has so much to offer that attempting to see the best of Las Vegas in one day might look like a daunting task…

It’s true that there is so much to see and do in Las Vegas that you could spend many weeks here and still not experience it all. However, if this is your first time in Vegas and you want to get a taste of what the city is like, you’ll be glad to know that it’s quite possible to see some of the most iconic places in Las Vegas in a day.

In this article, we share a recommended itinerary for one day in Las Vegas, coupled with practical tips for each place and attraction.

We also created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. You can find it at the end of this guide, together with a short overview of the itinerary and practical tips.

With just a day in Las Vegas, we recommend that you focus on the most famous places that you really have to see when visiting the city for the first time.

Based on our personal experience on a recent visit, in addition to ‘the musts’, this itinerary also includes some additional suggestions for the most amazing experiences which will make your day in Las Vegas even more memorable.

Good to know: As you can imagine, Las Vegas is a city that comes to life at night. This means that many places are closed in the morning (especially on weekdays). This 1-day Las Vegas itinerary takes into account the actual opening hours and locations . It is structured in such a way that you can actually visit all the places in the order in which we recommend them.

Of course, you can sleep longer, start your day at noon and continue sightseeing into the early hours of the next day. In that case, you may want to adjust this itinerary a bit, depending on the opening hours of the places that you want to see.

So use this guide as an inspiration to see what can be done with 24 hours in Las Vegas, and make your own perfect itinerary based on your personal interests and the time that you have.

Here’s what you could see and do in Las Vegas in one day:

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Start your day at the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign . It’s located on Las Vegas Boulevard to the south of the Strip, close to the airport.

There are several reasons to come here first thing in the morning. First, there are no opening times here, so it’s one of the places that you can actually visit at any time of the day.

Second, taking a picture with this iconic sign is one of the most popular things to do in Vegas. So if you come here later in the day, the chances are high that you will have difficulty finding parking and will have to stand in a very long queue for a picture…

Good to know: You will need a car in order to get here. With just a day in Las Vegas, I assume that you are in the area as part of a road trip, so likely, you will have a car. But if you are not renting a car, you can just take a taxi or an Uber, and – if it’s not busy – ask the driver to wait while you take a few pictures.

You really cannot miss the famous Las Vegas Boulevard, aka The Strip. However, this street stretches over 4 miles (almost 7 km), and some parts are more impressive than others.

The absolute ‘must-see’ is the Strip between Mandalay Bay (just north of the ‘Welcome to the Fabulous Las Vegas’ Sign) and The Venetian.

This stretch of the Strip is about 2.5 miles long and is home to the most famous casinos. With just a day in Las Vegas, you should probably just drive through here. You’ll pass the pyramid at Luxor , the Statue of Liberty at New York-New York , the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas , the famous Bellagio , Caesars Palace , Flamingo , Mirage , and many others.

Early in the morning, the Strip is usually very quiet, so you can slowly drive past all the famous casinos and get a good idea of the layout of the city.

Next, we recommend that you visit one or two of the most famous casinos. You can still come back to the Strip later in the evening as well. But the casinos are always open and many other places in Vegas are closed in the morning. Yes, it means a bit of backtracking, but it’s one of the best ways to make the most out of your day in Las Vegas if you are starting out early and many other places are still closed or too deserted to enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Good to know: If you are driving by car, you could park at Caesars Self-Parking (indicated on our map).

Caesars Palace

There are so many famous casinos to choose from, so you can pick the ones that interest you the most. But if this is your first time in Vegas and you are not sure where to go, we recommend visiting Caesars Palace and Bellagio .

These are among the most impressive hotels/casinos in Las Vegas and each of them has plenty to offer. Plus, they are located just across the street from each other, so you can easily see both in one go. In addition – based on your interests and the time that you want to spend here – you can also pay a visit to a few other casinos in this same area.

Just to be clear – we don’t talk about gambling. There’s so much to see and do at the most iconic casinos in Las Vegas that they are always worth a visit (and you can go with the whole family).

Caesars Palace is huge, so you could spend hours here. But for a quick first introduction, just walk the entire length of the complex starting at either side.

On the outside, you can see Roman sculptures and fountains including the famous Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, just like the real ones in Rome, Italy .

On the inside, you’ll find several shopping ‘streets’ complete with the most famous fashion boutiques, Italian restaurants, lanterns, benches, and even a beautiful ‘sky’ that makes you forget what time of day or night it is.

Bellagio is another iconic hotel and casino in Vegas. Also here, there’s a lot to see. On the outside, you have a big pond that reminds you of Lake Como in Italy (where the real Bellagio town is located). Later in the day, there are musical fountain shows here (you may catch a show when you return to the Strip later).

Anyway, there are a few things to check out inside too. Don’t miss the “Fiori di Como” glass ceiling  in the main lobby and Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens  which has different displays for every season.

If you start your day at around 8-9 am and depending on how much time you decide to spend at these casinos, it will likely be at least 11-11.30 am by this time. If you feel hungry, you could have a quick lunch on the Strip or along the way to your next destination.

Museums/Attractions

Below, we have listed three of the most interesting museums/attractions that you could fit into this 1-day Las Vegas itinerary: Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, the Neon Museum, and the Mob Museum.

Good to know: Depending on the opening times and what you decide to do in the evening (more info further below), it will be difficult to see all three of these, so pick just one or two. If your evening is rather free, you could visit all of them.

Planning tip: Depending on your interests and the time that you have, we recommend that you visit the Neon Museum and either Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart or the Mob Museum. The Neon Museum requires a lot less time, so it can easily be combined with one of the other places.

On the other hand – depending on the season – the Neon Museum sometimes only opens really late in the afternoon. In that case, you may want to skip it altogether. The Mob Museum is the easiest to visit since it has the most flexible opening hours.

Below, you can find more info about each of these places.

Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart

Next on this itinerary is AREA15 , a very unique entertainment complex. This place is not an absolute must, but it’s so special and so ‘Vegas’ that we recommend checking it out. On the other hand, the tickets aren’t cheap, so decide based on your interests, time, and budget.

AREA15 features a variety of quirky and very unique experiences and what they call ‘experiential entertainment’. You’ll find a few eateries here too.

There is so much to experience that you could easily spend a big part of the day… But with only one day in Las Vegas, we recommend just visiting Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart . It’s a very unique grocery store with immersive art installations and secret passages that lead to unexpected discoveries and fun adventures.

It’s really difficult to put into words what Omega Mart is like. It’s colorful, extraordinary, bizarre, entertaining, it’s… Vegas. And it’s fun for the whole family. We visited with teens and they had a great time here, just as we did. Kids will enjoy it as well.

Good to know: AREA15 is just 2 miles, 10 minutes drive from Caesars Palace. You’ll need a car or a taxi to get here. Free parking is available.

TIP: Omega Mart operates on a timed-entry system and the tickets often sell out. So if you want to be sure to visit here without wasting your precious time, be sure to book your tickets in advance ! Depending on the day, they are open from either 10 am or noon. If they are open at 10 (usually on weekends and busy seasons), you could adjust this itinerary by coming here earlier and visiting the casinos in the evening.

The Neon Museum

Next, head to Las Vegas downtown where you can visit one or two of the most interesting museums in the city. And don’t worry – these are not ‘boring’ traditional museums, but something a bit more entertaining (it’s Las Vegas after all).

The Neon Museum is another one of those unique places that you can only find in Las Vegas. It’s an outdoor museum where you can see some ‘retired’ neon signs coming from all kinds of iconic venues in Las Vegas.

The museum is rather small so you can see everything in less than half an hour. Plus, it’s located close to some of the must-sees in the old downtown area, so it’s really easy to fit it into your itinerary, even if you only have a day in Vegas.

Good to know: Depending on the season, The Neon Museum is open daily from 2, 3, or 4 pm. If you want to be sure to visit, you have to reserve in advance . There is a small car park here which is free for visitors.

The Mob Museum

The Mob Museum is dedicated to the history of organized crime and law enforcement. Housed in the former federal courthouse in downtown Las Vegas, the museum offers a fun and interactive way to learn more about some of the most famous mobs in U.S. history (Al Capone, Moe Dalitz, Frank Costello, Tony Spilotro, etc.).

The Mob Museum also has a speakeasy-style bar, which serves cocktails inspired by the Prohibition era. The Underground bar is located in the basement and can be reached through a secret door. You may even need a ‘secret’ password in order to enter ;).

Good to know: The Mob Museum is typically open from 9 am until late in the evening; the bar is open from noon on. You can find more info and book your tickets here . Tickets are valid the whole day and are usually available for bookings about a month in advance. Count 1.5-2 hours for a visit. There are several large parkings downtown, but they are not free.

Fremont Street Experience

Next, head to the most famous tourist attraction in the old town – Fremont Street Experience . It’s a sort of a covered pedestrian mall, best known for the dazzling light shows on the Viva Vision canopy made up of 12.5 million LED lights.

With its spectacular light displays, live entertainment, and vibrant atmosphere Fremont Street Experience is one of the must-see places in Las Vegas. You’ll also see street artists and all kinds of dressed-up characters in the strangest costumes charging you a fortune for a picture with them. The street is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and casinos, and there’s always a lot going on here.

Fremont Street Experience is open 24/7 and there are ever-changing light displays all the time. So it’s always worth a visit. However, it’s a bit more impressive when it’s dark and the street really comes to life in the evening. They also have some special featured music and light shows on the hour every hour starting from 6 pm until 2 am.

That being said, we found that these ‘shows’ aren’t really worth waiting for. Also, depending on when you visit, it can get dark pretty early or only late in the evening. So if you only have one day in Las Vegas and your time is limited, simply go to Fremont Street when it fits your itinerary best.

Good to know: Fremont Street Experience and the Mob Museum are located very close to each other. The Neon Museum is just nearby too. So you can easily adjust in which order you visit these places. Also, you will find plenty of eateries in this neighborhood if you get hungry.

TIP: In the old town, you can also find the iconic Golden Nugget Casino . Opened in 1946, it is one of the oldest casinos in Las Vegas. If you have some time to spare, you may want to check it out. I indicated its location on our map further below.

The Venetian

Next, we recommend that you return to the main area of the Strip. By the evening, it will be incomparably livelier than in the morning and it’s the best place to experience what visiting Las Vegas is really about!

First, you may want to check out The Venetian . Built in the style of Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy , this is another truly impressive casino to visit in Las Vegas! Also here, you can just walk around, see the Venetian gondolas, and admire the architecture.

With more time and depending on your interests, you could also opt for a few experiences like a gondola ride and/or Madame Tussauds Wax Museum .

LINQ Promenade

Next, head to LINQ Promenade , just a block or two from The Venetian (10 minutes walk). This pedestrian street is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions.

The main attraction here is the LINQ High Roller , a 550 ft observation wheel that offers panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline. The ride takes about 30 minutes and if you want to do it, it’s best to book your tickets in advance (they don’t even sell them on the spot and ask to buy tickets online).

Another popular attraction here is the Fly LINQ zipline , which allows visitors to zip line from one end of the promenade to the other. If interested in zip lining, you can get tickets here .

Bellagio Fountains

If you haven’t visited Caesars Palace and Bellagio in the morning, you can do it in the evening too. In addition, you could also see one of the famous Bellagio musical fountain shows .

Bellagio fountain shows are free and you can see them from the street. There are shows every day, in the afternoons every 30 minutes, and in the evenings after 7 pm, every 15 minutes. They usually only last 5 minutes, so it’s something that’s really easy to include into any Las Vegas itinerary.

Further, the Strip and its casinos feature a big variety of restaurants and bars, ranging from casual fast-food options to upscale dining experiences. So you’ll have no trouble finding a place for dinner .

Shows & Helicopter Flight over the Strip

End your day in Las Vegas with a bang! We recommend that you see one of the famous Las Vegas shows and/or take a nighttime helicopter flight over the Las Vegas Strip .

Good to know: The shows typically last about 1.5 hours and a helicopter flight is just 10 minutes (+ the time to get there, etc., still, can be done in about 1 hour). If you research the best available options, find that there is availability for a late-evening helicopter flight, and book everything in advance, you could do both on the same evening. Alternatively, depending on your interests, budget, and the availability of helicopter flights, choose just one of the two.

There are too many shows and concerts in Las Vegas to even start listing them. Plus, they change with time. So check what’s available and see if something catches your eye. The easiest to fit into this itinerary would be the shows at the casinos in the area around Ceasars Palace/Bellagio.

We chose one of the Cirque de Soleil shows and it was spectacular. At the moment of writing, for this itinerary, you could book tickets for the evening show “O” by Cirque du Soleil at Bellagio. Alternatively, see which shows are available at Caesars Palace .

A nighttime helicopter flight above the illuminated city of Las Vegas is another amazing experience that is well worth your time and money.

After doing quite some research, we booked this highly-rated helicopter flight and it didn’t disappoint. Seeing the Strip and all the iconic Las Vegas casinos from above is a really unique experience. Just like everything in Las Vegas, it’s not cheap, but we all found that it was absolutely worth it. The kids loved it too!

It’s a perfect way to end your unforgettable day in Las Vegas!

Getting Around

As you can see in the description and also on the map further below, you will need some kind of transportation for sightseeing in Las Vegas. In addition, prepare to do quite some walking.

If you have a car , it’s quite easy to get around, but you have to take into account that finding parking will take some time. Plus, you will have to walk more because you can’t always park your car exactly where you need to be. In addition, parking is not cheap at most places in Las Vegas.

Taking all this into account, you could just consider using a taxi/Uber . This could save you lots of time. Traffic can be really busy at times, especially in the afternoon/evening. But that’s the same whether you use your own car or taxi.

TIP: With just a day in Las Vegas, you could also consider using hop-on-hop-off buses . The route covers all the main attractions including the ‘Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas’ sign, the Strip, and Downtown Las Vegas. You don’t have to worry about parking or how much a taxi would cost, plus, you can enjoy great views of the city and take some nice pictures from a double-decker bus.

Las Vegas 1-day Itinerary Overview & Map

Based on our recommendations above, here is an overview of the suggested itinerary.

Please note that the hours are only indicated for your reference. A lot depends on the choices you make and how long you stay everywhere. Also, as already mentioned, some places have varying opening times depending on the day/season, so that will also influence your itinerary as well.

Here’s what your 1-day Las Vegas itinerary could look like:

• 8 am: Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign + drive through the Strip.
• Morning: Caesars Palace, Bellagio, lunch.
• Early afternoon: Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart OR Mob Museum OR The Neon Museum . Book tickets in advance!
• 3-4 pm: Fremont Street Experience & Las Vegas downtown.
• 4.30-7 pm: The Venetian, LINQ Promenade, Bellagio fountains, early dinner. If you want to do any rides/experiences such as LINQ High Roller , FlyLINQ Zipline , etc. book in advance!
• Evening: Shows and/or helicopter flight . Reserve in advance!

PRO TIP: Be sure to book all the indicated tickets/shows in advance (click on the links above for the tickets). That way, you can immediately see what’s available for your travel dates (and at what time). This will make your travel planning simpler and your Las Vegas day trip much more relaxing.

To give you a better idea of where everything is located, we created a map indicating all the places mentioned in this Las Vegas itinerary for one day – see below.

Where to Stay

Even if you have just one day in Las Vegas, you should try to spend at least two nights in the city – that way, you have one full day for sightseeing.

With just a day, it doesn’t really matter that much where you stay, especially if you have a car. On the other hand, staying close to the main area of the Strip could make your day more relaxing. Plus, you could also see some of the top places on the evening/morning of your arrival or departure.

In addition to the most popular hotel-casinos on the Strip like Caesars Palace , Bellagio , The Venetian , Flamingo , and Paris Las Vegas , there are so many other hotels in this area.

Here are several additional hotel recommendations just off the strip but very close to the most central area close to Bellagio/Caesars Palace: Horseshoe Las Vegas (mid-range 3* hotel just across the street), The Westin (a very nice 4* hotel about 5-10 minutes walk from the main area), or a lower-budget Ellis Island Hotel with free parking (10-15 minutes walk).

READ ALSO: Las Vegas Travel Tips for First Visit

So this is our guide to the best of Las Vegas in a day.

I hope that this itinerary gives you a good idea of what you can see and do within +- 24 hours in Las Vegas and how you can plan your time in order to make the most out of your visit.

Have a great trip!

TIP: In addition to visiting the top places in Las Vegas , you should really consider some of the nicest places in the area. In the immediate surroundings, Hoover Dam is not to be missed, and also the Seven Magic Mountains are worth a quick photo stop. Not even to mention all the iconic nature destinations that are well worth visiting in this part of the country…

If you are looking for more inspiration and information, take a look at our guides for all the top destinations via the links below:

• Best Day Trips from Las Vegas
• Grand Canyon in 1 Day (South Rim)
• Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon Itinerary (2-day itinerary starting/ending in Las Vegas)
• Best of Death Valley (top sights)
• Best Hikes in Zion National Park
• Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary (1-3 days)
• Gold Butte National Monument
• Best Places to Visit in Arizona
• Best Places to Visit in Utah
• Best of Sedona (top sights)
• Phoenix – Scottsdale Itinerary
• Monument Valley
• … for many more destinations, please see our USA travel guide .

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

More itineraries for city trips in the USA:

• 1 Day in New York .
• 2 Days in New York .
• 1 Day in Philadelphia .
• 2 Days in Chicago .
• San Diego Itinerary .
• Los Angeles 3 Days Itinerary .
• Phoenix – Scottsdale Itinerary .

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Saturday 11th of March 2023

Hi Jurga, we only want to do one museum in Vegas. Which one do you recommend?

Monday 13th of March 2023

Hi Kenny, if you visit just one museum in Las Vegas, I would opt for the Neon Museum. It's just something that is truly unique to the city and you won't find anything similar elsewhere. That being said, it has shorter opening times than most other places, so double-check that to be sure that it fits your itinerary. For that, the Mob Museum is much easier since it's open the whole day. Have a great trip!

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• Travel Tips

12 Mistakes Travelers Make in Las Vegas — and How to Avoid Them

These tips are sure to make a good Las Vegas vacation even better.

In Las Vegas , you never have to go far to find what you're looking for — interconnected hotels , 4,000-seat theaters, retail shops, and celebrity chef restaurants can be found around every corner. And when it comes to cocktails, well, let's just say you've got options , too.

But this abundance of choice is also what makes figuring out what to do while visiting so intimidating. There are plenty of ways to have fun here — and just as many ways to blow through your spending money. That's why it's important to be strategic in Sin City, says Anthony Curtis, founder of Las Vegas Advisor .

"Vegas is such a competitive landscape," he says. "There are 70-plus casinos all vying for the same money." As a result, he says, businesses are always offering incentives to get you in the door — you just have to know where to find them. "Be a consumer," he urges. "Look around. If you see a magazine, open it up, and see what's inside. Don't just do the first thing you see; look around a little bit until you find the best deal."

Some would argue that financial prudence has no place in Vegas. But in a town full of suckers, it pays to use your head. Read on for 12 rookie mistakes to avoid on your next Las Vegas vacation.

1. Not Having a Plan

Spontaneity is part of the fun of any Vegas trip, but planning ahead goes a long way, says Derek Stevens, owner of downtown's new Circa Resort & Casino . "If you're going to be here on a Friday or Saturday, make sure you book a reservation." This is particularly crucial if you're here for a special occasion, like Valentine's Day or spring break, when dozens of other people could be vying for the same table as you. "People show up on a Saturday afternoon and say, 'Can you get me into the steakhouse at 4 p.m.?' I say, 'Are you kidding? That reservation has been booked up for a month!'"

2. Overlooking the Limo

Vegas is a cinch to get around. Between the monorail, trams, taxis, and rideshares, travelers are bombarded with transportation options. But if your crew has an ambitious day of sightseeing planned, consider hiring a driver. At around $50 an hour, it may sound extravagant, but compare that cost — not to mention convenience — to hiring 10 consecutive Lyft rides on a hot summer day. Suddenly, the thought of a single, air-conditioned sedan waiting to pick you up doesn't seem so bad. In serious party mode? There's always a stretch limo .

3. Waiting on the Airport Car Rental Line

Then again, some travelers prefer to be in the driver's seat. And that's a sensible option, especially if you plan on taking advantage of the hiking trails at Red Rock Canyon , or driving on Nevada's Extraterrestrial Highway . But don't waste your time renting a car at the airport. Not only is it a hassle to wait in line, but you'll also be vulnerable to exorbitant concession recovery fees. The same goes for on-site rentals at hotels, too. Your best bet is to check into your hotel first, then find a car rental location that's nearby. Your wallet will thank you.

4. Betting on Games You've Never Played

It's tempting to pull up a chair at the poker table and try to coast on beginner's luck. But odds are, you won't get far. "The best game to play is the one you already understand," says Stevens. "But also pick the one you're going to have the most fun with." Stevens recommends slot machines for beginners, since they're less intimidating and allow you to experience the fun of winning and losing. And since this is Vegas, you will lose. But then again, you might win.

5. Not Tipping

Tipping goes without saying, but being a generous tipper in Vegas could be the key to a memorable night out. "If there's a show you're dying to see, and it's sold out, there's always someone who can get you in," explains Stevens. After all, Vegas is a relatively small place, and its 300,000 hospitality workers tend to keep their ears to the ground. "Make sure you're tipping the valets, bartenders, and cocktail servers. They always have a pretty good idea of [what's out there.] If you need tickets to a Celine Dion show or something, they might be able to point you in the right direction."

6. Forgetting to Check the Events Calendar

Avoiding crowds in Vegas is almost impossible, but at certain times of the year, the city becomes uncomfortably crammed. For example, the International Consumer Electronics Show, which takes place every January, draws over 180,000 attendees every year. That's a whole lot of dinner reservations and taxi lines to compete with. The same goes for March Madness and the Super Bowl, when the wait at mega-screen bars like Sportsbook can exceed three hours. If you prefer a less congested experience, you're better off avoiding those weeks entirely.

7. Not Asking If the Pool Is Heated

Sure, Vegas is in the desert, but don't expect bikini weather in January and February, when temperatures can dip to the low 30s at night. If lounging by the pool is a top priority, you've got two options: Come in the warmer months, or pick a hotel that heats its pool year-round. A decade ago, resorts didn't bother keeping their pools warm during the winter because of maintenance costs, but that's changing now. At Circa, for example, the Stadium Swim pool is kept at a toasty 94 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter, though most of the big resorts, including the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and MGM Grand, settle for a pleasant 80 degrees. If it's a cabana you're after, make sure to book early.

8. Overpacking

A good goal on any Vegas trip is getting in and out of McCarran International Airport as quickly as possible, and limiting your luggage to a carry-on will certainly help with that. If you're worried about not having enough clothes, don't be. Remember where you are, after all. "Vegas has a lot of retail stores and gift shops, so don't worry about forgetting something," says Stevens."

9. Not Scoping Out Deals

If you're a frequent traveler, you already know about aggregator sites like Kayak and Hotels.com. But there are other ways to save on your Vegas accommodations, too. According to Curtis, "bundled deals" are having a moment right now. The way these rates work is by including incentives like a $100 spa credit or free daily breakfast in the cost of the room. So, in the end, it gives budget travelers access to high-end properties like the Wynn, Aria, Four Seasons, and Bellagio — and with decent perks, too. It's not bad when you consider breakfast alone is typically $30 a head. "These credits are not easy to come by," says Curtis. "That's why [deals like this] are exciting for us."

10. Sleeping on Downtown

One major rookie mistake? Assuming that Vegas is synonymous with the Strip. In fact, that's taking a rather narrow view of the city, says Curtis. "This has been going on since the '90s," he says. "Everything you read is always about the flash of the Strip , but downtown Vegas is a place unto itself." Wits its complex of 12 casinos, the pedestrian-friendly downtown area is not only ripe for exploration, but it's also a better value. "Downtown, a steak dinner will cost you half of what it does on the Strip. Maybe the chef won't be a celebrity name, but the food is just as good."

11. Not Saving Room for a Fourth Meal

Speaking of food, your wild night on the town isn't complete until you've stopped in to feast at one of Vegas' iconic late-night restaurants. Though the number of these places has dwindled since the pandemic, there are still some fantastic options for after-hours noshing. At Tacos Mexico , you can score chiles rellenos at 4 a.m., and if you show up at Ellis Island Casino for chicken fried steak as the sun's coming up, no one will bat an eye. Feeling more adventurous? Izakaya Go offers Japanese tapas and sashimi until 3 a.m. Just don't get too cozy in that booth — you've still got to make it back to your hotel bed.

12. Not Signing Up for a Players Club Card

If you're planning to spend significant time in the casino, signing up for a players club card is a wise move, says Curtis. The card — available at every casino — won't cost you a thing, but it can earn you discounts at the buffet, as well as cash vouchers on your next visit to the casino. Sometimes, there are even free hotel nights to be had. "You should never put a nickel into a slot machine without a players club card," says Curtis. "It's an absolute necessity."

Las Vegas Sphere: Ultimate guide to seats, prices and how to see Dead Forever in 2024

Competing for attention in Las Vegas with neon signs, billboards and mega-resorts that resemble European palaces and Egyptian pyramids is no easy feat.

But an eight-month-old orb with a talent for shapeshifting is stealing a little of their thunder.

Sphere at The Venetian Resort , an entertainment venue that opened September 2023 just off the Las Vegas Strip , has garnered much attention since its debut for its immersive audio-visual experiences.

See the 366-foot-tall venue from the outside at night and it captivates people for its ability to project images from its exterior shell (also called the Exosphere) containing 580,000 square feet of LED lights, whether it's the Earth, the surface of Mars, a blinking eye, or an emoji. It developed a reputation for causing traffic gridlock since the projections began last year during the Fourth of July.

Inside, the venue's 160,000-square-foot display with 16K by 16K resolution displays immersive visuals, backed by the world's largest beamforming audio system, according to The Venetian .

If you're planning a trip to Las Vegas, check our guides on the best ways to get there from Phoenix , free things to do , which hotels offer free parking , and how to check for bedbugs in hotels .

If you can't get to Vegas just yet, the newly opened Caesars Republic Scottsdale hotel and upcoming VAI Resort in Glendale offer the luxury of Vegas in the Valley, though neither has a casino.

Here's everything to know about the Las Vegas Sphere.

What is the Sphere in Las Vegas?

Described on its website as "a next-generation entertainment medium that is redefining the future of live entertainment," Sphere is an immersive venue that uses haptics (seats that can move and vibrate), atmospheric simulations and visual effects to "transport audiences to places real and imagined."

The Sphere Experience, the main attraction inside the Sphere, is a two-part attraction. The first part, guided by a humanoid robot called Aura, includes a 360-degree avatar capture and a 50-foot-high holographic installation.

The second part is a viewing of an immersive film called "Postcard From Earth" by director Darren Aronofsky on Sphere's largest, highest-definition screen. "Postcard From Earth" is described as part nature documentary, part science fiction movie.

Sphere has also hosted concerts, with U2 inaugurating it with a 40-show residency that launched on Sept. 29, 2023. Sporting events are coming as well: UFC President Dana White said in February that he booked Sphere for UFC 306, scheduled for Sept. 14, 2024.

Where is the Sphere in Las Vegas?

Sphere is at the intersection of Sands Avenue and Koval Lane, just off the Las Vegas Strip and about 1 mile east of The Venetian.

Its address is 255 Sands Ave., Las Vegas.

Who owns the Sphere in Las Vegas?

Sphere is owned by Sphere Entertainment Co., which was spun off from Madison Square Garden Entertainment in April 2023.

Can you go inside the Vegas Sphere?

Yes, but it will cost you. Every guest must have a ticket for a show to enter the Sphere.

How many people does the Sphere hold? 

Sphere can seat 17,500 people and has a standing room capacity of 20,000, according to The Venetian .

Do the seats move in the Sphere? 

Of the Sphere's 17,500 seats, 10,000 of them are described as "haptic seats," or seats that are capable of moving and vibrating.

Where are the bad seats in the Sphere? 

Any seats with an overhang of upper levels will obstruct the view of the stage and/or screen.

USA Today's 10Best suggests avoiding certain seats in the far right and far left sections in the 100 level, where rows 30 and higher are completely obstructed by the overhang.

The 200, 300 and 400 levels offer the best seats.

How long does the Sphere Experience last? 

The Sphere Experience lasts just under two hours, with 60 minutes for the interactive experiences and 50 minutes for the "Postcard From Earth" film.

How long will U2 be at the Sphere?

U2 played the final show of its U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere residency on March 2, 2024.

Who is performing at the Sphere in 2024? 

After U2's residency ended, the jam band Phish became the second music act to play Sphere. Their four-show residency ran April 18-21.

Members of Dead & Company, a spinoff of the Grateful Dead featuring former members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart along with singer and guitarist John Mayer, will perform a 24-show Sphere residency called Dead Forever. The residency, which runs from May 16 to July 13, will begin a year after their final tour made a stop in Phoenix .

How much does it cost to go to Sphere Vegas?

It depends on the show and what day you plan to visit.

The Sphere Experience starts at $79 per person during the week and $99 per person on weekends.

Tickets for Dead & Company's Dead Forever residency start at $145 per person.

Is the Sphere worth going to?

Sphere has attracted an assortment of highly positive and highly negative reviews from travelers.

It has a user rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google. One user, Phillipe Beaumier , called Sphere "a once in a lifetime experience" and described the immersive audio and visual as "so incredible, you feel like you are part of the travel!"

Tripadvisor users gave Sphere more mixed reviews, with an overall rating of 3 out of 5 stars. Most of its bad reviews were critical of the message of the "Postcard From Earth" film in the Sphere Experience.

A one-star review from a Tripadvisor user named Kathryn W. expressed disappointment with the Sphere Experience's humanoid robots and how "a couple of robots that are comparable to (Amazon's virtual assistant) Alexa can't answer a question." Kathryn added that the moving seats "could be mistaken for someone kicking the back of your chair."

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

What to know about gambling before you go to Vegas

Apr 19, 2024 • 6 min read

If the lights of Las Vegas’ many casinos lure you on the floor, here’s all you need to know as a first-time gambler © Veronica Jones / Getty Images

If you fancy placing a bet or two (or 20), you’ve hit the jackpot in Las Vegas .

Gambling in all of its forms has been legal in Nevada since 1931, which has made Las Vegas the essential place in the USA to let it ride, double down and max bet (oh my!). Even with other states legalizing casinos and sports betting as well as Native American tribes unveiling casino-resort destinations, Sin City remains in a class of its own.  

And yet...that grumpy chain-smoking dude at the blackjack table judging your every hit. The hundreds of lights blinking at you on a single slot machine. The seemingly endless plusses and minuses on a sportsbook screen glaring down on the masses. We’d forgive gambling rookies for finding it all very intimidating. 

But don’t be scared. Las Vegas is as friendly as it gets in terms of easing into your new favorite game. 

In between strolling The Strip , a day trip into the desert and seeing a fabulous show , chances are you’ll want to give the tables and slots a shot. When you do, here are the answers to any Las Vegas gambling rookie’s key questions.

How many different games can I play in Vegas?

With new games being unveiled seemingly every day – particularly from slot-machine manufacturers – you can easily gamble hundreds of different ways under the roof of a single Las Vegas casino. Table games include such classics as blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and various forms of poker, like Ultimate Texas Hold ’Em and Three Card Poker. 

Slot machines feature thousands of different themes, paylines and jackpot options. Among the most omnipresent machines citywide are Megabucks and Wheel of Fortune , which have progressive statewide jackpots that often reach the million-plus level. Sports betting is also a significant draw: you can bet on everything from big-time NFL battles to a small soccer match in Colombia. In some casinos, you’ll even find halls where you can play bingo. 

What are the rules? 

You must be 21 years or older to gamble and drink in Las Vegas casinos. An important yet unspoken rule in our increasingly digital world: casinos don’t take kindly to folks being on the phone during table game action. This policy extends to taking phone calls, scrolling digital inboxes and making Google searches as to whether or not you should hit on 12 against a dealer’s 6 at a blackjack table. (Don’t tire your fingers: the answer is no.)

As for game-specific rules, your best bet is to simply ask a dealer or pit boss before you sit down. Don’t make the rookie mistake of plopping it at a table, betting $100 and saying, “Um, how do I play this?” Settle in at an empty or relatively empty table game – and don’t be bashful in getting your questions answered before diving in.

What about refreshments? In Nevada, you can indeed drink for free while gambling. If you’re feeding a video poker machine embedded in a casino bar, count on the bartender comping your drinks. The same goes for when you’re sitting at slot machines and table games: cocktail waiters and waitresses make regular rounds. Whether your drinks are comped or not (and, really, especially if they’re not), make sure to tip your bartenders and waiters with each round. 

What is the etiquette? And what about strategies for the different games?

Remember that you will be playing every game (save for the action in poker rooms) against the dealer (or “house”). You are not competing against the person at the slot machine next to yours, the dice roller that’s on fire at the craps table or your fellow players at the blackjack table.

Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer general questions about both etiquette and strategy. You’ll be sure to get an opinion – but remember that this is gambling, and you may want to go with your gut regardless. Here are a few pro tips that align with the odds of common games: 

• Blackjack: Stay if your cards add up to 12 or more and the dealer has a 3, 4, 5 or 6 showing.
• Three Card Poker: Play if you have a Queen–6–4 or better.
• Video poker: Always place the maximum bet, as there is a higher bonus payout should you hit a coveted royal flush.

How much money should I bring to place bets with?

This is contingent on how much money you are willing to lose. Casinos are in business to make money, after all – and the house always has the edge. Always.

Bet minimums run the gamut in Las Vegas – you can wager a (literal) penny on select slot machine spins, or $100,000-plus on a single roulette spin at a high-limit table. Before sitting down at any machine or table, note the minimum and maximum bets posted – and place yours accordingly. 

Given that ATM machines within casinos charge exorbitant fees (typically $10, in addition to any fees charged by your bank), bring your budgeted cash amount with you rather than make an on-site withdrawal.

We must never fail to mention that gambling can highly be addictive, and isn’t for everyone. If you’re having trouble stepping away once you’ve started, chat with a casino employee or call the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.

Are there dress codes at Las Vegas casinos? 

Las Vegas resorts span high-end restaurants, raucous nightclubs and the most informal of poolsides. Given that diversity, dress codes really aren’t a thing on the gambling floor. If you’re coming from the pool, you may be asked to cover up – but that’s about as strict as it will get.

Which casinos are best for beginners? 

You’ll likely want to start cheap, and blackjack table minimums can be indicative of the prices of other table games at any given casino. A $5 blackjack table isn’t too common these days – but you can find many of them at the no-frills Ellis Island , just off The Strip, and at Downtown Grand . Fun fact: Downtown Grand even offers a $1 game of blackjack. 

Most casinos also offer free “learn to play” sessions. For example, the Golden Nugget offers daily lessons on nine different games spanning pai gow poker to craps to roulette. Ask someone at the casino cage (cashier) wherever you may be staying for the latest schedule of free lessons.

Which game is easiest?

Slot machines merely require you to push a button or pull a lever. That’s it. If you know the basics of poker, the video version of the card game is pretty seamless as well. A third option is roulette: there are 38 numbers (inclusive of 0 and 00) on most roulette wheels in Las Vegas, with your odds contingent on how many numbers you place bets on.

Is there such a thing as a smart bet?

It’s called gambling for a reason, and any form it takes carries inherent risks and zero guarantees of winning. With that said…a “smart bet” in Las Vegas would be one with a lower house edge, meaning better odds to the player. Some of the safer, long-established bets in Vegas include betting the pass line in craps, betting on the banker in baccarat and playing blackjack “according to the book” (or basic strategy).

Keep planning your trip to Las Vegas:

All the best things to do in Sin City Skip the casino floor and check out these free things to do How to get around Las Vegas See desert beauty at the city’s best parks

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RuPaul’s Drag Race Live: How to Get Tickets to the Las Vegas Shows

See your favorite queens walk the runway live as they bring the Werkroom offscreen and straight to the stage.

By Rylee Johnston

Rylee Johnston

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In case you can’t find the section or amount of tickets you want, there are some cheap ticket options from resale sites you can learn more about below.

How to Get Tickets to RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! Las Vegas Online

Besides Ticketmaster, you can also find RuPaul Live tickets from resale sites such as StubHub , Vivid Seats , Seat Geek and Gametime , which you can shop below.

StubHub offers tickets for as low as $81 with the site offering an interactive map that’ll allow you to sort options by date, price and seating section. Each purchase comes with the FanProtect Guarantee, which you can read more about here .

Vivid Seats

You can also find affordable options through Vivid Seats , which currently has options from $133+ . You can pick out tickets through the interactive map as well as sort options based on cost or seating section. Plus, your purchased will be covered by Vivid Seat’s 100% Buyer Guarantee . You can save an additional $20 off orders of $200+ when you use the code BB2024 at checkout.

Seat Geek offers tickets to RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! for as low as $90+ with ticket options rated on a scale of 1-10 based on how good of a deal it is. Tickets rated a 10 are considered the best deal and options give a one rating are the worst deal. First-time purchases can get $10 off your order when you use the code BILLBOARD10 at checkout.

RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! Las Vegas Cast

The cast for RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! is subject to change, but current drag queens include Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Derrick Barry, Eureka, Jaida Essence Hall and Jorgeous.

In the past, queens like Yvie Oddly Coco Montrese, India Ferrah, Kahanna Montrese, Kameron Michaels, Kim Chi, Naomi Smalls, Vanessa Vanjie Mateo and Shannel have all appeared on the Vegas stage.

Find tickets to RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! here and check out more of the latest Las Vegas residencies that are playing now.

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The Las Vegas–LA electric high-speed rail line just broke ground

Brightline West, a future electric high-speed rail line between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, broke ground today in Nevada.

On December 6, 2023, Electrek reported that the Biden administration awarded Brightline West $3 billion in funding. The money was part of $6 billion previously earmarked for high-speed rail, and came from the Biden administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as part of its Federal-State Partnership Program. (The other $3 billion will go to the public high-speed Los Angeles to San Francisco rail project, which has more than 100 miles of a high-speed line under construction.)

Brightline West will be a privately owned, 218-mile, all-electric high-speed rail service that will include a flagship station in Las Vegas (pictured above), with additional stations in Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Rancho Cucamonga. At speeds of more than 186 miles per hour, trains will take passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga, which is 37 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, in just 2 hours and 10 minutes – twice as fast as the normal drive time. 

Florida-based Brightline Holdings is expected to model the Las Vegas-LA rail line on its high-speed route between Miami and Orlando – the US’s only privately owned and operated intercity passenger railroad.

Brightline West estimates it will remove 3 million cars from I-15 annually, reducing over 400,000 tons of carbon emissions annually. It also anticipates creating an astounding 35,000 union jobs. The federal funding will enable the project, which is aiming to open by 2028, to begin construction.

Rick Harnish, executive director of the national nonprofit High Speed Rail Alliance , said today:

This is a transformational investment in American trains. Getting a high-speed line in operation this decade will show Americans this terrific way to travel. If you have ever felt frustrated by traffic gridlock or airport hassles, a better future just got closer.

Top comment by Al

I'm very excited to see this project completed. I never go to Vegas personally, but I think the more Americans that are introduced to the beauty of high speed rail, the less resistance there will be for future projects.

And why do people profess that the money spent has simply disappeared? That money went to jobs in the area and across the nation, both directly and indirectly. I've read that the economic multiplier is about 1.8, I don't understand how you have an issue with that.

Read more: The US’s busiest rail corridor just got a $16.4B boost – why that’s huge

Photos: Brightline West

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Michelle Lewis is a writer and editor on Electrek and an editor on DroneDJ, 9to5Mac, and 9to5Google. She lives in White River Junction, Vermont. She has previously worked for Fast Company, the Guardian, News Deeply, Time, and others. Message Michelle on Twitter or at [email protected]. Check out her personal blog.

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Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A $12 billion passenger bullet train linking Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area was dubbed the first true high-speed rail line in the nation on Monday, with the private company building it predicting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg before taking a stage with union representatives and company officials at the future site of a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s really happening this time.”

Buttigieg cited Biden administration support for the project that he said will bring thousands of union jobs, boost local economies and cut traffic and air pollution.

Brightline West, whose sister company  already operates a fast train  between Miami and Orlando in Florida, aims to lay 218 miles (351 kilometers) of new track almost all in the median of Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. It would link there with a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. A station also is planned in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

Company officials say the goal is to have trains exceeding speeds of 186 mph (300 kph) — comparable to  Japan’s Shinkansen  bullet trains — operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

“I believe we’ll look back at today and say, ‘This was the birth of an industry of high-speed rail,’” Brightline Holdings founder Wes Edens said Monday.

The company aims to link U.S. cities that are too near each other for air travel to make sense and too far for people to drive.

Las Vegas has no Amtrak service. The idea of a bullet train to Los Angeles dates back decades under various names including DesertXpress. Brightline West acquired the project in 2019, and company and public officials say it has all required right-of-way and environmental approvals, along with labor agreements.

Brightline received Biden administration backing including a  $3 billion grant  from federal infrastructure funds and recent  approval to sell  another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

Brightline West says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. It projects 11 million one-way passengers per year, with fares that Edens said will be comparable to airline ticket costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where drivers often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home to Southern California from a Las Vegas weekend. An average of more than  44,000 automobiles per day  crossed the California-Nevada state line on I-15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings’  Miami-line debuted  in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It offers 16 round-trips per day with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak’s Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) between Boston and Washington, D.C. But fast train connections for other U.S. cities have been floated, including  Dallas to Houston ;  Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ;  Chicago to St. Louis ; and  Seattle to Portland, Oregon.  Most have faced delays.

In California, a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco was approved by voters in 2008, but has been beset by  rising costs and routing disputes . A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the  cost had more than tripled  to $105 billion.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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A New High-Speed Train Between Las Vegas and California Breaks Ground This Week

Brightline will shuttle passengers between sin city and an l.a. suburb in just over two hours., tori latham, tori latham's most recent stories.

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The future of train travel is beginning to take shape.

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The $12 billion project is scheduled to be completed by early 2028, The Washington Post noted, in time for people who will be in the area for that year’s Summer Olympics in L.A. Brightline’s electric trains will leave every 45 minutes from both stations, making two additional stops in the California towns of Hesperia and Apple Valley during the 218-mile journey. Going at speeds of 186 miles per hour, the train will cut down on the three-hour-plus travel time between Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga—and that’s without traffic, of course.

While we’ll have to wait a few years to get a taste of the Brightline trip, but the company is betting on it being game-changer when it comes to travel to and from Sin City.

Tori Latham is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. She was previously a copy editor at The Atlantic, and has written for publications including The Cut and The Hollywood Reporter. When not…

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You’ve likely seen the newest addition to the Vegas skyline; the Sphere . Upon it’s initial debut, it took over social feeds with videos of the curious emoji watching the street life in Vegas unfold. Or perhaps you’ve seen the hypnotic animations covering the massive exterior display.

Check out the Sphere🪩 only in Vegas🎊

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You might see it from the plane as you approach the city, and you’ll see glimpses of it as you wander Las Vegas. It’s also become a mouthpiece of the current and the latest in Las Vegas, celebrating Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix winners as well as the Super Bowl.

Sphere Facts

• Size:  366 feet high and 516 feet wide, spanning a total of 875,000 square feet
• Capacity : Seats 18,600 people
• Sound:  Over 167,000 individually amplified loudspeakers
• Cost:  $2.3 billion
• Time:  Took 5 years to construct, opening September 2023

That’s a lot of numbers and they give you a sense of the scale of this monumental undertaking, but what does the Sphere experience feel like? It’s like nothing else. Consider a screen that envelops you in 270 degrees of visuals while filling your ears with immersive sound, the quality of which resets your baseline for what a show should sound like. Imagine you feel the wind off a mountain top or the vibration of the earth as an enormous elephant walks by. Think virtual reality without the headset. You’ve got to see it – experience it – for yourself.

Live Music Residencies at Sphere

Sphere opened with an extended residency by legendary rock band U2 in September 2023. The ever-evolving rockstars jumped at the opportunity to be the first to test drive its unique performance environment. The Edge, U2’s iconic guitarist, shares the following regarding the invitation to cut the ribbon for live concerts:

“ … the possibilities around immersive experiences in real and imaginary landscapes . In short, it’s a canvas of unparalleled scale and image resolution and a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We all thought about it and decided we’d be mad not to accept the invitation. ”

The band went on to perform a series of sold-out shows with astounding visuals and unleashed a tidal wave of FOMO over social from everyone who missed out.

With the U2 run winding down, the rumor mill is hot about who’s next. The genre-bending, improv-driven band Phish is already set to blow your mind with their spring 2024 residency, and Dead & Company – with John Mayer – are on the way, too. No matter who’s on stage, each show will be a custom coproduction with the artists. Expect to be surprised every single time.

Beyond Live Music: Other Ways to Experience Sphere

Tickets for live events are in high demand; it’s easier to get in for The Sphere Experience. Before the show, visit the futuristic atrium where you can interact with AI robots and get scanned for an avatar. Then surround yourself with a 50-minute film made especially for display on Sphere’s wraparound screen.

“Postcard from Earth” from filmmaker Darren Aronofsky was made with a camera developed especially for the high resolution demanded by Sphere’s display. This stunning tour of our planet takes you out into space, across snowcapped mountains, and deep into the tiniest details, all in celebration of the complex, beautiful ecosystem in which we live. You’ll see, hear and feel our planet in new and mind-blowing ways. For the best seats in the house, expedited entry, a private reception, and exclusive swag, spring for the director’s seats.

Just want to get a look at Sphere from the outside? You can drive past it, sure, but head to the Harrah's Las Vegas parking garage. Simply follow the signs to the designated Sphere viewing area.

Tips for a Better Experience

If you’re visiting this one-of-a-kind venue, you want to make the most of your time. Here are some tips to make your unforgettable experience easier and seamless.

Shows sell out fast. Hop on those tickets as soon as you can.

Double-check your seat choices before you buy your tickets to make sure you have a view you'll love.

Parking is limited. Take rideshare or public transit. If you drive, park at the nearby Wynn Las Vegas or The Venetian Resort Las Vegas , where there’s a handy walkway to Sphere. Allow for a 15- to 20-minute walk.

Go early for dinner and drinks and check out the on-site exhibits; you can avoid longer lines by doing this.

Check the bag rules, as there are size restrictions. Your phone is fine, but don’t bring a camera or other pro gear. Best plan? If it doesn’t fit in your pockets, leave it behind.

There are concession stands throughout the atrium, where you’ll find specialty cocktails, wine and beer, and a selection of stadium-style bites – think pizza, burgers and dogs, candy.  Don’t want to wait in line? There are some grab-and-go options with self-checkout stations.

Check this Sphere FAQ for more details on how to have the best possible experience when you visit.

You’ve got your Sphere plan made, how about the rest of your trip? Make time to experience the latest in top-notch Las Vegas dining , from casual food-court bites to dress-to-impress date-night events. To round out the rest of your adventure, here’s a planning guide to help you create the perfect Las Vegas vacation.

Construction begins on high-speed rail between Vegas and California

Brightline west will make the trip between las vegas and rancho cucamonga in a little over two hours.

Privately owned train company Brightline held a groundbreaking ceremony Monday for a $12 billion high-speed rail project connecting Las Vegas and Southern California.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg joined company leaders and other officials for the start of construction in Las Vegas.

Brightline West benefits from $3 billion in federal funds from President Biden ’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Trains could be running as soon as early 2028, in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Travelers have a lot to look forward to. Electric trains will depart every 45 minutes from a Las Vegas station south of the city’s storied Strip and a Southern California station in Rancho Cucamonga, a Los Angeles suburb about 40 miles east of downtown.

Traveling at up to 186 mph — faster than any other train in the United States — Brightline West trains will make the 218-mile trip in about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

“At long last, we’re building the first high-speed rail project in our nation’s history,” President Biden said of Brightline West in December. “We’ve been talking about this project for decades. Now we’re really getting it done.”

Other high-speed railroads that would carry passengers at 200 mph and faster are in the works in California, Texas and the Pacific Northwest.

“The bottom line here is we changed the trajectory,” Buttigieg said in an interview Monday. More than $30 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been awarded to date and more is on the way, he added.

The success of the Brightline West project could influence how future rail projects receive funding.

“It won’t be easy but I think they have all of the right things in place to get this done,” Buttigieg said.

Speed is Brightline West’s main selling point. Driving between Rancho Cucamonga and Las Vegas takes at least three hours without traffic, according to Google Maps.

“You’ll be sitting there flying by on Brightline looking at all these brake lights on the highway and thinking, ‘It sucks to be you,’” said Jim Mathews, CEO of the Rail Passengers Association , said on Friday. “That’s what it’s going to be like for all those people trying to get from greater Los Angeles to Las Vegas.”

Brightline West trains will run along Interstate 15 for nearly their entire journey. They will make two intermediate stops in California: one in Hesperia and one in Apple Valley.

Travelers coming from Los Angeles will have the option of riding Metrolink , Southern California’s regional rail system, to the Rancho Cucamonga station located near the junction of Interstates 10 and 15. The trip between downtown Los Angeles and Rancho Cucamonga takes at least 50 minutes by car without traffic, or 1 hour and 15 minutes on the train.

“Getting it to a juncture where pretty much everybody who passes into the I-15 corridor goes through is a massive benefit from a climate perspective, a congestion perspective, and an economic perspective,” Buttigieg said.

Future plans include a direct connection for Brightline West to Los Angeles Union Station as part of the separate California High-Speed Rail project.

Speed won’t be the only reason to ride Brightline West.

Brightline’s Florida operation connecting Miami to Orlando opened in September , giving future customers out West an idea of what to expect. Before Brightline’s debut, Amtrak held a monopoly on intercity passenger rail travel for decades.

Stations are spacious with comfortable areas to sit, bars selling craft cocktails and a lounge for premium passengers. Onboard, travelers enjoy assigned seats and fast WiFi. Attendants come down the aisle serving snacks and drinks throughout the trip.

Brightline told investors that it carried a record 258,307 passengers in March, and that one in three of its trains were nearly full.

Brightline’s strong ridership, though slower than initially promised to investors, makes a strong case for building fast and frequent trains between major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

Brightline West estimates that 6 million people will ride its trains during the first full year of operation, according to a federal environmental assessment . That number is projected to grow to as many as 9.2 million people within a decade.

The company estimates that, without the train, three-quarters of its riders would drive between Southern California and Las Vegas. Another 15 percent would fly, and the balance would not make the trip at all.

More travel news

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Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .