The Best Things to Do in Vegas Other Than Gamble (2026)

Looking for things to do in Vegas other than gambling?

Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, but honestly? Gambling is only a tiny part of what makes this city so fun.

I’ve been going to Vegas every year for the last five years, sometimes for weeks at a time, and on all of those trips I hardly ever gambled (it’s not really for me, honestly). Honestly, there’s so much to do in Vegas that you just don’t need to gamble.

Between catching world-class shows, enjoying some amazing restaurants and one-of-a-kind food creations, enjoying some outdoor adventures slightly outside of Vegas, and visiting museums you can’t find anywhere else, Vegas is packed with things to do even if you never touch a slot machine.

If you’re wondering whether you can actually enjoy Las Vegas without the casino action, the answer is a huge yes. This guide covers the absolute best things to do in Vegas other than gamble, from the best entertainment on the Strip to hidden local spots that are worth checking out.

Short on Time?

If you only have time for a few unforgettable non-gambling experiences in Vegas, these are my top picks:

• Cirque du Soleil – World-class shows you can only see in Vegas
• Helicopter ride over the Strip or Grand Canyon – High-impact, cinematic adventure
• Red Rock Canyon – Stunning desert escape just minutes from the Strip

Can You Have Fun in Las Vegas Without Hitting the Casinos??

Yes, absolutely. Vegas is basically an entertainment playground first, gambling destination second.

You can spend days (or weeks) seeing shows, eating incredible food like cronuts and $2 oysters, exploring museums and learning about the history of Mob culture in Vegas, venturing outdoors and exploring canyons without ever stepping onto a casino floor. Some of the best Vegas experiences have nothing to do with gambling at all.

See Shows and Other Entertainment

Vegas does entertainment better than anywhere else in the world. The variety alone is unreal. There are acrobatics shows, comedy, magic, concerts, burlesque, and even medieval-style dinner shows.

You could practically fill an entire weekend just hopping from one performance to the next. Here are some of the best shows that you should see on the Strip. 

1. Cirque du Soleil Shows

Cirque du Soleil is one of the biggest non-gambling reasons people visit Vegas, and for good reason. I’ve seen every single Cirque du Soleil show currently running on the Strip, and they are all completely different experiences.

Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay is high-energy and music-driven, perfect if you love pop culture and incredible dancing. “O” at Bellagio is surreal and jaw-dropping, with performers diving in and out of water in crazy ways. Those two are my absolute favorite shows on the Strip, and I think everyone should see them at least once. 

Some of the good Cirque du Soleil shows include KÀ at MGM Grand, which is cinematic and story-driven, almost like a live-action movie. Mad Apple is another show I loved at New York–New York. It’s definitely more adult-oriented, but it’s absolutely hilarious (the comedian had us cry-laughing for 15 minutes straight), and fast-paced.

If you’re short on time, booking a Cirque du Soleil show is one of the best ways to experience Vegas! Be sure to check out my full breakdown of how to choose the best show in my blog. 

➡️ Book your Cirque du Soleil tickets here!

2. Absinthe and Other Spiegelworld Shows

If you want something edgy and very Vegas, Spiegelworld shows like Absinthe are a must. We went in with very low expectations and, honestly, we had a blast!

If you’re easily offended, don’t go to this show. It’s an intimate, raunchy show that’s packed with insane acrobatics. The show feels like a mix of circus, comedy, and chaos. It’s definitely not family-friendly, but it’s an incredibly entertaining show for adults!

Tickets can be hard to come by, so be sure to book tickets to Absinthe well in advance! 

3. Las Vegas Comedy Shows and Clubs

Vegas has some surprisingly great comedy options. Carrot Top is way funnier than people expect, with clever prop comedy at Luxor. Yes, the guy is pretty weird-looking, but it’s a really funny show on the Strip!

 The Mike Hammer Comedy Magic Show at Four Queens Casino (off-Strip) is another funny magic show, especially if you like audience interaction and quick humor. If you’re looking for something less funny, more magic, then definitely check out Shin Lim at The Venetian! It’s an impressive show with some insane card tricks. 

➡️ Click here to book your Las Vegas comedy show tickets!

4. Magic Shows

If you’re looking for something less funny, more magic, then definitely check out Shin Lim at the Venetian! It’s an impressive show with some insane card tricks, and the atmosphere feels really intimate and exciting.

Paranormal is one of the highest-rated magic shows on the Strip and blends mentalism with storytelling. Another great magic show on the strip is Mat Franco, who was the winner of America’s Got Talent. 

➡️ Get your Las Vegas magic show tickets here!

5. Concerts and Residencies

Sometimes you just want live music without paying arena prices. For big-name artists that often make their home on the Strip, you can expect to pay $300-$400 per ticket sometimes!

Instead of paying the arena prices, check out the free “concerts” off-strip at the Fremont Street Experience. The crowd is super laid-back, and it’s great to go in the evening when there are more crowds, but there are a few crowds listening to the live music during the day.

You definitely don’t need to drop hundreds to have a great night out in Vegas.

6. Zombie Burlesque

For something totally weird and fun, check out Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood. It’s campy, funny, and a little bit creepy. Honestly, it’s a mix you can only get in Vegas. If you’re into offbeat humor this is a great show to catch! 

➡️ Reserve your Zombie Burlesque tickets here!

7. Tournament of Kings

We had a blast at the Tournament of Kings Dinner & Show at Excalibur. It’s super cheesy, and definitely the best show on the Strip if you have kids. You eat with your hands while knights battle it out in an arena with horses, dancers, and crowds roaring. It’s loud, fun, but definitely eat somewhere else before the show.

The food is super bland and nothing special, but it’s kind of cool (and insane) that they give everyone a cornish hen, and it’s genuinely fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want something different.

➡️ Book your Tournament of Kings tickets here!

8. The Magician’s Study

For something more intimate, The Magician’s Study offers a small-group magic experience that feels exclusive and immersive. The crowd is only 20-30 people, the vibe is really unique, and it’s definitely one of those “hidden gem” Vegas experiences that you feel like no one else knows about except for you.

It’s super hard to get tickets, though. About 50% of the people who inquire don’t get in, but it’s worth the effort to try. 

This magic experience is one of the funniest, most interactive nights of entertainment anywhere, so if you can snag tickets, go enjoy the show! 

9. Boxing Match

Vegas is a boxing capital, and experiences like The Ultimate Las Vegas Fight Tour give you behind-the-scenes access to the sport, even if there isn’t a major fight happening during your visit. Be sure to check out tickets during your visit. Usually, there’s a UFC fight or something else happening in the city. 

➡️ Click here to book your Vegas Fight Tour tickets!

Visit Museums, Exhibits, and Other Cultural Spots

Vegas has so many genuinely cool museums and exhibits. Between speakeasies hidden in historic buildings, immersive art worlds, and neon graveyards, there’s so much creativity packed into this city. You can easily spend a full day hopping between different attractions, and you’ll never feel like you’re  “missing out” by skipping the casinos.

The Mob Museum (+ The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery)

The Mob Museum is one of the coolest museums in Vegas, hands down. Almost everyone says that they could spend hours in the museum. The exhibits are interactive and packed with fascinating stories about organized crime in America and how Vegas played a role in it all.

I loved wandering through the recreated crime labs and listening to actual FBI surveillance tapes.

But the hidden gem here is downstairs at The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery. It’s styled like a 1920s bar, complete with vintage décor, live jazz, and house-made moonshine. Definitely try their Giggle Water! 

➡️ Book your Mob Museum entry tickets here!

11. Area15 & Omega Mart

AREA15 is an immersive entertainment complex that feels futuristic and weird, and it definitely makes your head spin. We visited Omega Mart by Meow Wolf, and it was the coolest immersive “art exhibit” I’ve been to. It’s part art installation, part interactive mystery, and part fever dream.

We spent hours exploring fake grocery aisles that led to hidden portals and tunnels. Definitely read about the lore before you go though! Otherwise, you may not have as much fun as solving the puzzles in the exhibit. It’s definitely one of the strangest and most creative experiences I’ve ever had in Vegas.

In area 15, you can also check out places like Illuminarium, which is an immersive 360-degree projection experience. It’s not as intense as Omega Mart, but still worth a quick stop if you’re into high-tech visuals and sensory art. There are also some cool bars and clubs you can explore in Area 15! 

➡️ Click here to book your AREA 15 tickets!

12. The Neon Museum

If you’re into photography or you’re interested in seeing more of vintage Vegas, go to The Neon Museum! It’s basically a glowing graveyard for old casino and hotel signs, and walking through The Boneyard at night feels magical, like stepping back into the old-school Vegas.

Every sign tells a story, and you can visit the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum on the same day! Book your tickets here to make the most out of a museum day in Vegas. 

➡️ Get your The Neon Museum tickets here!

13. Pinball Hall of Fame

This one was pure nostalgia. The Pinball Hall of Fame has rows and rows of vintage pinball machines that still take quarters. It’s casual, free to walk around (but not to play the games, of course), family-friendly, and super retro and fun to take pictures in.

You can tell the people running it genuinely love the machines because they’ve restored most of them by hand.

There are vintage classic games and modern games. It’s cheap, fun, and surprisingly addictive.

14. Atomic Museum

Apparently, there’s a museum dedicated to nuclear history in Vegas. The Atomic Museum tells the story of America’s atomic testing era and how Vegas was right in the middle of it. There are vintage Geiger counters, atomic-age ads, and even footage of mushroom clouds that locals used to watch from hotel rooftops.

It’s fascinating, educational, interactive, and just a little eerie (Oppenheimer, anyone?). 

➡️ Grab your Atomic Museum admission tickets here!

15. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

Inside the Luxor, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is a great experience that features real artifacts from the Titanic and recreations of ship rooms. It’s a sad and beautiful experience. They’ve recreated parts of the ship, and some of the artifacts are real items recovered from the ocean floor.

It feels like stepping back in time and paying respect to history, and is a super immersive experience.

➡️ Book your Titanic Artifact Exhibition tickets here!

16. Natural History Museum

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a quieter stop and is great if you’re traveling with kids in Vegas, or if you want something educational and cool to look at. They’ve got dinosaur skeletons, wildlife dioramas, and a surprisingly solid marine exhibit.

It’s not as flashy as some of the other museums on the Strip, but it’s a nice breather from the noise of the Strip. 

➡️ Click here to get your tickets to the Las Vegas Natural History Museum!

17. Punk Rock Museum

This is a super cool museum in Vegas, in addition to the city’s museum lineup. The Punk Rock Museum celebrates punk culture with memorabilia, instruments, and stories from the bands that defined the movement.

You can take guided tours led by actual punk musicians, which is something I feel like you can’t get anywhere else! The museum is gritty and loud (to be expected, of course). 

➡️ Get your tickets to the Punk Rock Museum here!

Experience Las Vegas
Attractions and Rides

I didn’t realize how many rides and adrenaline-fueled attractions there were in Vegas. There are sky-high observation wheels, simulated flights, racetracks, and even construction equipment playgrounds. 

18. High Roller (LINQ)

The High Roller at The LINQ is a must-do Vegas experience. I rode it at sunset and at night, and the 360° views of the Strip lighting up are beautiful.

Each cabin fits around a dozen people and even has an open-bar option (I recommend skipping the drinks and getting them afterwards at a cheaper bar area like Yardhouse).

It’s some of the best 30 minutes you can spend in Vegas. It’s super relaxing, calm, and the perfect way to start or end your night.

➡️ Click here to book your High Roller entry tickets!

19. Thrill & Adrenaline Experiences

If you’re into stuff like rollercoasters, Vegas has plenty for you. These are the experiences that make your heart race! 

Stratosphere Tower

At The STRAT Tower’s Observation Deck, you get sweeping views of the entire city. There are also plenty of rides in the tower, too.

If you’re brave enough, SkyJump lets you leap off the tower in a controlled freefall, kind of like James Bond.

There are also some Thrill Rides on Top like Insanity, X-Scream, and Big Shot (whose names pretty much summarize the actual experience of these thrill rides).

It’s definitely thrilling, and you can hear people screaming before you even see the ride! 

➡️ Grab your STRAT Tower’s Observation Deck admission tickets here!

Ziplines

Vegas has a lot of ziplines! There’s SlotZilla over Fremont Street with neon lights, music, and crowds below.

The LINQ Zipline gives you great Strip views, and the zipline at the Rio Hotel and Casino offers that adrenaline rush of flying between two hotel towers. It’s shorter, but still fun.

If you’re looking for an outdoor zipline, Bootleg Canyon has one with stunning desert views. It’s peaceful and kind of scary if you’re afraid of heights! 

Roller Coasters

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is the main rollercoaster on the Strip. It looks cartoonish from the outside, but those drops are no joke, and you can hear people screaming on the coaster, especially if you’re staying at nearby hotels like Excalibur and Park MGM.

The loops and twists fly past hotel facades and fake skyscrapers. I highly recommend going at night when the Strip lights are glowing.

➡️ Book your Big Apple Coaster tickets here!

FlyOver Las Vegas (Simulated Flight)

FlyOver Las Vegas is a fully immersive flying theater that “takes” you over U.S. landmarks like deserts, waterfalls, and canyons, complete with wind, scents, and mist. It feels like Soarin’ at Disney, but better. It’s a good option if you want something exciting but not physically intense.

➡️ Get your FlyOver Las Vegas tickets here!

20. Helicopter Rides

Seeing Vegas from above at night is surreal. I’ve heard some amazing things about the Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight, and it’s next on my list! You fly over the Strip, the Bellagio fountains, the Sphere – the whole glittering skyline with some amazing views. The pilot even syncs the flight to music, which makes it feel even more cinematic.

If you want to go all out, be sure to check out the Grand Canyon West Rim Luxury Helicopter Tour. We did a helicopter tour flying over the North and South Rim, which was great, but this tour is extra special. You actually land inside the canyon for champagne. It doesn’t get more “once-in-a-lifetime” than that.

➡️ Book your helicopter ride here!

21. Dig This! Heavy Machinery Experience

Dig This! is a heavy-equipment playground where you get to drive bulldozers and excavators in a giant sandbox. The instructors are funny, patient, and make sure everything is safe and you get the full experience of digging holes, stacking tires, even playing games with the machines. 

➡️ Click here to book your Dig This admission!

22. Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for something super unique to do in Vegas, try the Gangsters, Glitz, and Gore Las Vegas Ghost Tour. It takes you through old Vegas haunts with stories about mobsters, historic hotels (did you know that Circus Circus and parts of the Venetian Hotel are haunted?), and supposed ghost sightings around the area.

It’s a mix of spooky and historical. It’s not too scary, but eerie enough to make you glance over your shoulder once or twice while you’re walking on the Strip! 

➡️ Book your Las Vegas ghost tour here!

23. Battlefield Vegas (Shooting Range)

At Battlefield Vegas, you can safely fire real military-grade weapons with trained instructors. The whole setup feels like a movie with outdoor ranges, armored vehicles on-site, and staff who are incredibly professional. It’s intense but very controlled and super safe. 

➡️ Grab your tickets here!

24. Supercar / Exotic Car Racing

Driving a Lamborghini or Ferrari on a professional track is something I didn’t realize you could just do in Vegas. This Exotic Car Driving Experience is also on our Vegas bucket list, and it lets you choose your dream car and take it for laps with a pro coach guiding you through an earpiece. It’s fast, loud, and super fun! 

➡️ Reserve your Exotic Car Racing tickets here!

25. Escape Rooms

Vegas has some seriously well-designed escape rooms which are really creepy. The Cabin is atmospheric and story-driven. My friend did this, and she said she really felt like she was inside of a horror movie (and she doesn’t really like horror movies, so it was a bit too much for her, but if you’re into horror and thrillers, it’s a great spot!)

The Official SAW Escape Room is immersive and terrifying, and you’ll be crawling, solving puzzles, and screaming a bit.

➡️ Grab your Las Vegas escape room tickets here!

26. Golf and Mini Golf

If you’re a more experienced golfer or you have some understanding of the basics, hit the golf course at Wynn, the only golf course on the Strip. There are also other courses around the Strip like Bali Hai and Angel Park, and quirky ones like KISS-themed mini golf or Topgolf’s high-tech golf courses with Strip views.

Even if you don’t play regularly, it’s a fun way to unwind.

27. Pools and Dayclubs

Vegas pool culture is its own thing.

You can explore on your own, or check out the different pool parties with the Las Vegas Pool Party Crawl, which takes you to several awesome locations on the Strip. The vibe is crazy, especially in spots like Encore Beach Club and Wet Republic, and you can explore all of these pool parties in one day on a luxury party bus via the tour.

If you’d rather chill by the pool, resorts like The Venetian and Aria have some of the prettiest pools on the Strip, with quieter pools where you can sip a drink and people-watch for hours.

➡️ Book your Las Vegas pool party crawl here!

28. Spas

After all the rides and walking, you need a good spa day. Vegas can be a bit pricey when it comes to spa days, but you just need to know where to go. I wrote a whole article about some of the best spas on the Strip, at a mix of budget ranges, but some of my personal favorites are Aria and Qua Baths and Spa at Caesars Palace.

The saunas are amazing, and it’s super relaxing after days of walking around the city. 

Take Outdoor Adventures and Day Trips

One of the best things about Vegas is how close it is to incredible outdoor spots, like red rock canyons, alpine trails, and desert art installations. You can hike, climb, kayak, stargaze, or just escape the Strip for a few hours. 

29. Outdoor Adventures Close to the City

You don’t have to drive far to feel like you’ve completely left Vegas behind. Within 30 to 45 minutes, you can be surrounded by mountains, desert landscapes, and some of the best hiking and climbing in the Southwest. These spots are perfect for day trips that still leave you time for dinner back on the Strip.

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is only about 25 minutes from the Strip, but it really makes you feel like you’re in the desert. The red sandstone cliffs and winding trails make it a dream for hikers, trail runners, and climbers.

You can join a guided Red Rock Canyon hike and learn more about the canyon (I recommend visiting in winter or springtime to avoid the summer heat). It’s super quiet and peaceful.

Pro tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon, as the light makes for some incredible photos.

➡️ Click here to book your Red Rock Canyon hike!

Springs Preserve

Springs Preserve is a beautiful mix of gardens, nature trails, and desert history just minutes from downtown. There are plenty of walking paths, and you can check out the small museum exhibits about Vegas’s early days.

It’s a great spot for casual hiking, birdwatching, or just sipping coffee surrounded by desert plants. It’s a great spot for families too, and it’s surprisingly photogenic, especially during astrophotography nights when the city lights fade.

➡️ Grab your Springs Preserve admission ticket here!

Mt. Charleston

When you tell locals that you want to escape the heat of summer in Las Vegas, they all say the same thing: “Go to Mount Charleston.” At nearly 12,000 feet, it feels like a completely different world with pine forests, cool mountain air, and trails that look more like Colorado than Nevada.

This Mount Charleston tour is a great way to explore without worrying about driving from the Strip. The area is great for hiking, trail running, horseback riding, or even snowshoeing in the winter. 

➡️ Book your Mount Charleston tour here!

Lake Mead

If water sports are more your thing, go to Lake Mead! I joined the Lake Mead sunset kayak tour, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful experiences of my trip to Vegas. You can paddle across the lake as the sky turns orange and purple, then have dinner by a campfire.

There are also spots for swimming, camping, and stargazing, and the stillness at night is unreal. You can literally look up and see the Milky Way, which is something that feels impossible after days spent under neon lights.

➡️ Click here to book your Lake Mead tour!

Seven Magic Mountains

On the way to or from the Hoover Dam, you’ll spot the famous Seven Magic Mountains, towering neon-colored boulders stacked in the desert. It’s part art installation, part desert landmark, and it’s even included on tours like the Hoover Dam tour with Seven Magic Mountains and Vegas Sign.

You can go early in the morning to beat the crowds, and the contrast of bright colors against the quiet desert backdrop makes for some good photos! It’s not a hiking spot per se, but it’s great for photos and a quick stop.

➡️ Book your tour here!

30. Epic Day Trips from Las Vegas

If you’ve got extra time in your Vegas itinerary, don’t just stick to the city! Some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the Southwest are only a few hours away from Vegas. Through guided bus tours and renting a car, you can go from the Strip’s neon skyline to canyon cliffs, red rock deserts, and river valleys.

These make perfect day adventures for hiking, kayaking, sightseeing, or just resetting after the city.

Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a must-see for its sheer size and the engineering that went into it. For a more in-depth experience, check out this Hoover Dam tour with lunch, which adds insider access and hidden viewpoints. 

➡️ Click here to book your Hoover Dam tour!

Grand Canyon

I’ve seen a lot of landscapes, but nothing prepared me for the Grand Canyon. I did the 45-minute helicopter flight, and honestly, it might be the best money I’ve ever spent. Flying over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and into the canyon itself feels surreal.

If you’d rather stay on the ground, the Grand Canyon West tour with Hoover Dam stop and optional Skywalk is an amazing full-day trip. You get to walk right out onto the glass Skywalk and see the Colorado River nearly a mile below. 

➡️ Book your Grand Canyon tour here!

Valley of Fire State Park

Just an hour from the city, Valley of Fire State Park feels like stepping onto another planet. The red and orange sandstone formations are stunning and perfect for hiking, rock climbing, or even trail running if you go early before the heat sets in.

Bring extra water and your camera, and don’t go in the summertime! The heat is too dangerous to explore this landmark safely.

➡️ Click here to book your tour to the Valley of Fire State Park!

Death Valley

Death Valley is breathtaking. You see dunes, salt flats, and pastel-colored mountains all in one day. There’s an incredible Death Valley sunset and stargazing tour that’s on my bucket list.

As night falls, the stars explode across the sky and create one of the best stargazing spots in the U.S. If you’re into astrophotography, this place is a dream!

Just be sure to visit in the wintertime. The place is too dangerous to visit in the summer.

➡️ Book your Death Valley tour here!

Zion National Park

Zion is one of the best landmarks in the United States. It’s a bit further out from the Strip, so it’s best to visit via a bus tour, in my opinion, or if you’re up for it, you can rent a car to explore this gorgeous natural wonder. This small group Zion tour from Vegas is a long day, but completely worth it.

You can hike The Narrows, which is a slot canyon with walls hundreds of feet tall. It’s also fantastic for trail running, climbing, or just catching your breath somewhere quiet. It’s on my bucket list, and one of the most beautiful places you can visit! 

➡️ Click here to book your Zion National Park tour!

Bryce Canyon National Park

If you have the time, combine Zion with Bryce Canyon National Park for a two-in-one adventure. The Bryce & Zion combo tour is a packed day, but totally worth it.

Bryce is famous for its “hoodoos” — tall, spindly rock formations that look like something out of a fantasy movie. The trails wind right through them, and the views at sunrise or sunset are unreal.

This area is also amazing for camping and stargazing, thanks to its incredibly dark, clear skies.

➡️ Book your Bryce Canyon tour here!

Mojave Desert Preserve

You can also explore the Mojave Desert while you’re venturing outside of Vegas. For the best way to visit the Mojave Desert, consider an ATV tour! This Mojave Desert ATV tour allows you to zip across open desert trails with mountain backdrops. It’s perfect for anyone who loves off-roading or is interested in trying.

Some groups even stop for short hikes and photo ops, and if you’re into astrophotography, the Mojave skies are stunning once the sun sets.

➡️ Click here to book your Mojave Desert ATV tour!

Colorado River

The Colorado River is a popular kayaking destination, but if you can, be sure to check out Emerald Cave, best reached with a kayaking tour!

This Emerald Cave kayak tour takes you along the Colorado River to a gorgeous green cave where the water glows a surreal green inside. The whole route is lined with desert cliffs and wildlife, making it a peaceful, photogenic, and amazing half-day adventure near Vegas. You can even add hotel pickup to the tour for a totally hassle-free experience. 

➡️ Book your Colorado River kayak tour here!

See Hotels, Landmarks, and Other Las Vegas Photo Spots

Vegas is one of the coolest cities for its landmark hotels. Every hotel, attraction, and even random street corner seems designed for photos. You can get some amazing skyline shots in these spots, which I’ve found to be the best backdrops in Las Vegas. 

31. Bellagio

When most people think of Vegas, they think of The Fountains of Bellagio. For the best views, watch them in the viewing deck area past the hotel valet area, down the stairs near the balcony area below.

You can also get some incredible views from up above, either via a helicopter tour or from the Eiffel Tower viewing deck in Paris Hotel and Casino! No trip to Vegas is complete without a visit to these fountains. 

Right behind the lobby, the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is another gorgeous photo spot. It’s one of the many free things to do in Vegas, and the gardens change themes every season.

During the winter months in Vegas, the gardens turn into a holiday-themed wonderland, while in the summertime, there are fresh blooms you can only find in the summer season, making it feel like a dreamy meadow.

It feels peaceful amid all the chaos on the Strip, and the attention to detail is incredible.

32. Paris Eiffel Tower Observation Deck

The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas offers one of the best views of the Strip, especially at night! From the top, you can see the Bellagio Fountains, the Sphere glowing in the distance, and the entire skyline lighting up. It’s a romantic photo spot, especially to catch the sunset. 

33. Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

You can’t leave Vegas without getting the classic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign photo. It’s touristy, but iconic, and I highly recommend going early in the morning to avoid lines.

You can also catch the Las Vegas sign as part of this California Desert, Seven Magic Mountains, and Las Vegas Sign tour, which makes it easy to hit multiple photo stops in one trip.

➡️ Click here to book your tour!

34. The Venetian

The Venetian is one of the most stunning hotels in Vegas. The indoor canals, painted sky ceiling, and gondola rides make it feel like you’re stepping into a gorgeous marble museum. The outdoor area at night is just as beautiful, with the lights reflecting off the water, and you can see a lot of people taking pictures here. 

35. Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn Las Vegas is hands down my favorite hotel on the Strip for so many reasons. The attention to detail is incredible. Everything feels luxurious and well thought out.

The Lake of Dreams show is another free activity that makes for a good photo op, featuring various shows that run every half hour after dusk. The shows are a little strange at times, but it’s a really relaxing activity on the Strip. 

36. The Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan is a more modern, cooler-looking hotel in Vegas. Be sure to check out their massive chandelier bar, which is literally a multi-story bar wrapped in crystals. Every corner is Instagram-ready, with digital art walls to wrap around terrace views. It’s a cool hotel to stay in and just to wander around. 

Try Food and Drinks
at Las Vegas Restaurants

I tell a lot of my foodie friends that Vegas has some amazing eats – it’s one of the best food destinations out there. You’ll find everything from world-class fine dining and celebrity chef restaurants to creative food halls and secret bars. 

37. Restaurants

For a full list of places to eat in Vegas, at various budget ranges, I’ve put together a full guide to my favorite restaurants in Las Vegas. There’s so much incredible food in this city that it deserves its own blog post!

But a quick breakdown of some of my favorite spots to eat on the Strip: La La Noodle at Park MGM, Istanbul Mediterranean near Horseshoe, and Dominique Ansel Marche in Paris Hotel and Casino. 

38. Fine Dining

Vegas does fine dining like nowhere else. Some of my favorite spots include Sinatra in Wynn (their osso bucco was incredible… and a huge portion, and we keep talking about the $20 asparagus side dish that is so seemingly simple, but I wish I could replicate myself).

We also really like going to Hells Kitchen (be sure to book your reservation in advance!) and é by José Andrés is next on my list!

Even if you’re not usually into multi-course experiences, I think it’s worth trying once, especially in Vegas, where the selection is great. 

39. Food Halls

If you want variety without committing to a big dinner, the city’s food halls are perfect. Eataly at Park MGM is one of my favorite food halls on the Strip with crepe stations, pasta stations, and fresh gelato.

Other great food halls I really like include Block 16 Urban Food Hall inside The Cosmopolitan. The vibe is more global street food with Nashville hot chicken, poke bowls, and insanely good burgers.

I also like Via Via Food Hall at the Venetian, where you can get some really good breakfast biscuits at Turkey and the Wolf, have some authentic Japanese ramen at Ivan Ramen, and then enjoy some Birria Tacos at BS Tacqueria.

40. Food Tours

If you can’t decide what to eat, let someone else lead the way! The Strip’s celebrity chefs tour is a little bit more upscale, but it gives you a taste of what makes Vegas’s food scene world-famous and why so many celebrity chefs have restaurants in Vegas. 

➡️ Click here to book your Las Vegas food tour!

41. Bars and Lounges

Vegas nightlife isn’t all about nightclubs. There are really cool speakeasies and rooftop bars across the Strip, and there are honestly a lot to choose from, between Ghost Donkey in Cosmopolitan to Yard House in the LINQ Promenade! 

42. Tiki Bars

If you’re into rum drinks and tropical vibes, check out The Golden Tiki in Chinatown or Frankie’s Tiki Room near downtown. Both have over-the-top décor, strong drinks, and it’s a different vibe from other bars in Vegas. 

43. Dessert Shops

I have a bit of a sweet tooth, and some of the best places for dessert in Vegas include Dominique Ansel Marche (he has some super creative pastries and his cronuts are really good), and the milkshakes at Black Tap are as big as your head (definitely share with someone!!)

44. Coca-Cola World

Coca-Cola World on the Strip offers a soda tasting flight featuring Coke flavors from around the world. Some are surprisingly good, others… not so much, but it’s a fun stop, especially with friends or kids.

45. Hershey’s Chocolate World

If you love chocolate, Hershey’s Chocolate World is a great spot with chocolate sculptures, custom chocolate bars you can make yourself, and limited-edition treats you won’t find anywhere else. It’s located in New York-New York hotel and casino!

See Las Vegas Neighborhoods
and Other Local Areas

Of course, there’s always plenty to do on the Las Vegas Strip, but for more adventures, check out what’s happening off-Strip in local areas! There are a lot of good vibes and local art collectives downtown. Here are some of the best things you can do: 

46. Fremont Street Experience

The Fremont Street Experience is wild with street performers, live bands, zipliners flying overhead, and that massive LED canopy lighting up the entire street.

You can explore Vegas’ downtown (which has really come alive in recent years) and learn more about the history of the area with this Las Vegas Downtown and Fremont Street guided walking tour, which takes you to spots that most people don’t know about in Vegas.

➡️ Book your Fremont Street tour here!

47. The Strip

The Strip is long, crowded, and mesmerizing. Every few steps, there’s something new. I highly recommend walking in the morning, when there are less crowds, and in the evening when you see everything lit up. The energy is great, especially on weekends! 

48. Arts District

The Las Vegas Arts District is a cool under-the-radar neighborhood with local galleries, murals, vintage shops, and breweries. Be sure to go during First Friday, the city’s monthly art and music festival with food trucks, street performers, live bands, and a genuinely friendly local crowd.

Also, if you’re into breweries, Brewery Row is a hidden gem for craft beer lovers. Be sure to check out Able Baker, Nevada Brew Works, and HUDL Brewing! Each spot has its own vibe. 

➡️ Click here to book your tour!

49. Chinatown

Vegas’s Chinatown is just a few minutes from The Strip. You’ll find everything from late-night ramen joints to modern Asian fusion restaurants, plus dessert cafés and karaoke bars locals love. It’s the best place to escape the Strip and eat like a local.

Go Shopping

There’s a lot of shopping in Vegas – the city is basically one giant shopping destination, with everything from designer boutiques and luxury malls to quirky themed stores and local artisan spots. 

50. Luxury & Designer Shopping

If you like designer brands, there are plenty on the Vegas Strip. Any high-end hotel like The Venetian or Wynn will have these kinds of shops there, and you can also check out the Shops at Crystals near Aria for some high-end shopping. 

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is also a fun mall to walk around, with Roman architecture, sky-painted ceilings, and fountains that are super over the top. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s worth a stroll.

If you want a more relaxed luxury vibe, check out Tivoli Village or Downtown Summerlin off the Strip. Tivoli has a European-style outdoor layout with boutique shops and cozy cafés, while Downtown Summerlin is modern, full of restaurants, and perfect for an afternoon escape. 

51. Outlets & Malls

The Las Vegas North Premium Outlets is one of the most-reviewed outlet malls in Nevada as people love the mix of high-end and affordable brands, and you can score serious deals if you go early or midweek. 

The Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood are also worth checking out. It’s more midrange than luxury, with stores like Sephora, Urban Outfitters, and local boutiques mixed in. There’s also a solid mix of quick bites and bars, so you can easily make it a shopping + happy hour kind of afternoon.

52. Quirky & Themed Stores

Vegas does weird shopping better than anywhere else. Downtown Container Park is one of the coolest retail spots. It’s built entirely out of shipping containers, with indie shops, galleries, and small restaurants. It’s artsy, laid-back, and great for finding unique souvenirs.

Then there are the iconic themed stores on The Strip, like M&M’s World and The Lego Store. These spots are perfect if you’re traveling with kids.

53. Local Shopping

If you want something that feels more “local Vegas” than “tourist Vegas,” head to Water Street in Henderson. The area has been quietly transforming into a cool little hub of boutiques, vintage stores, and local breweries.

The nearby Booze District (yes, that’s its real name) has craft distilleries and taprooms where you can do tastings or grab bottles to take home.

Try These Unique
and Local Experiences

Vegas is packed with oddball experiences that make for the best stories later. Here are some cool ones to check out!

54. Pioneer Saloon (Goodsprings)

About 40 minutes from The Strip, the Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings feels like stepping into an Old West movie. It’s one of Nevada’s oldest bars (over 100 years old) and still has bullet holes in the walls from bar fights back in the day.

For an easy way to explore from your Vegas hotel, check out the Las Vegas Desert RZR Adventure Tour at the Pioneer Saloon. You ride through dusty trails and get a break from the neon city.

➡️ Click here to book your Pioneer Saloon tour!

56. Berlin Wall (Main Street Station Men’s Room)

There’s an actual piece of the Berlin Wall in downtown Vegas, and it’s inside a men’s restroom at Main Street Station. It sounds like a joke, but it’s real. The urinals are literally mounted on segments of the wall, and women can ask security for a quick peek if they want to see it too. It’s one of those “only in Vegas” things, but it’s really there!

57. Throw Axes / Break Stuff (Axehole)

Head to Axehole near Fremont Street to throw some axes at wooden targets! They even have a rage room where you can smash old TVs and bottles… and people say it’s an unexpectedly therapeutic destination.  

➡️ Book your slot here!

58. Watching Sports

Vegas has become a massive sports town over the past few years, and catching a live game is a must if it aligns with your travel plans. You can watch the Vegas Golden Knights play at T-Mobile Arena, where fans go all out, and the atmosphere feels more like a rock concert than a hockey game.

You’ve also got the Las Vegas Aces (WNBA champs) and the Raiders if you’re into football. 

59. Watching Rodeo

If you’re visiting Las Vegas in December, don’t miss the National Finals Rodeo at South Point. Every year, the Strip transforms into a Cowboy’s paradise with cowboy hats, boots, live country music, and a really friendly crowd.

Even if you’ve never been to a rodeo before, it’s super fun, and I highly recommend going! Plus, the weather in Vegas is great in December. 

Conclusion

Vegas is a super diverse destination, and there’s more to it than just gambling. You can go from luxury shopping to desert trails, Michelin-star dining to axe throwing, all in the same day. It’s creative, and the variety makes it completely one-of-a-kind.

There’s too much of Vegas to fit into one trip, but that’s what makes every visit feel new! Happy travels.