80 Best Things to do in Las Vegas!

Las Vegas, often known as “Sin City“, is a bustling metropolis in the middle of the Nevada desert. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, endless entertainment options, and luxurious casinos, Las Vegas is a top destination for travelers seeking excitement and adventure. Whether you’re looking to try your luck at the casinos, enjoy world-class shows, we showcase the best things to do in Las Vegas during your visit to Nevada.

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1. Historic Attractions

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum showcase several exhibits that focus on animals, science, and world history. One of the main highlights is the dinosaur section with lifelike models of creatures like the Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. You’ll also find a marine life section with info about whales, sharks, and other sea creatures — plus a small tank with live sharks and stingrays. Another popular area covers ancient Egypt, showing items like mummies and tombs. There’s also a section about African wildlife and one that talks about Nevada’s prehistoric animals, including the huge Shonisaurus.

The Neon Museum

The Neon Museum is an outdoor museum that collects and displays old neon signs from the city’s past. The main area, called the Neon Boneyard, features over 200 signs from old casinos, hotels, and businesses. Some of the famous signs come from places like Caesars Palace and Moulin Rouge. Visitors can explore the museum all day when many of the signs are lit up. There are guided tours that explain the history of the signs and how they were made. A nighttime show called “Brilliant!” uses music and lights to make the old signs glow again, and it takes place in the North Gallery of the museum.

The Mob Museum

The Mob Museum is a place where you can learn about the history of organized crime and how law enforcement fought back. It has real items like old weapons, photos, and records that show how the mob operated in other cities like Chicago, and New York. One highlight is a courtroom where a famous hearing about organized crime happened in the 1950s. The exhibits explain how the FBI and police worked to stop these criminal groups. You’ll find videos, stories, and displays that are easy to follow. There’s also a working distillery that shows how people secretly made alcohol during Prohibition.

Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park

The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park is an important site where the history of Las Vegas began. This is where Mormon missionaries built the first non-Native settlement in 1855, using adobe and water from a natural spring. The fort had tall walls for protection and served as a stop for travelers heading west. Today, you can visit the remains of the original structure and see rebuilt sections that show how it once looked. There’s a visitor center with photos, tools, and displays about early desert life. It helps people understand how Las Vegas started, long before the casinos and neon lights.

Clark County Museum

The Clark County Museum is a fascinating place where visitors can explore the past of southern Nevada through interactive displays and old buildings. One of the main features is Heritage Street, where you can walk through old houses and buildings that were moved to the museum and set up to look like they did in the past. These include homes from the early 1900s to the 1950s, a wedding chapel, a print shop, and even a railroad cottage. Inside the museum, there’s a timeline exhibit that shows how the region changed over time, with displays explain about mining, railroads, and early businesses.

Flamingo Las Vegas

Opened in 1946, Flamingo Las Vegas is one of the oldest hotels on the Strip, located right in the center of Las Vegas Boulevard. The hotel has a large casino, several restaurants, and a variety of shows. One of the special things about this place is the outdoor Wildlife Habitat, where you can see birds, turtles, and fish in a peaceful garden area. The hotel also has a large pool area called the Go Pool, which is popular with adults looking to relax or enjoy music and drinks. The Flamingo is also a part of Caesars Entertainment, so visitors can earn and use rewards through the Caesars Rewards program.

Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip is a busy long road lined with casinos, big hotels, and glowing neon lights that shine all night, and it runs for about 4.2 miles along Las Vegas Boulevard. Even though it’s just outside the city limits, most people think of it as the heart of Las Vegas. Many of the world’s biggest hotels and casinos are found here, including places like Caesars Palace, The Venetian, and the Bellagio. Visitors can also watch water shows at the Bellagio fountains or see volcano eruptions at The Mirage. Day or night, the Strip is full of people walking around, snapping pictures, and enjoying their experience.

Bellagio Fountains

The Bellagio Fountains are a free water show located in front of the Bellagio Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, bringing visitors with music, light, and dancing water. The show takes place in a man-made lake and uses over 1,000 water jets and thousands of lights to create movements that rise as high as 460 feet. Songs range from classical pieces to modern pop hits, and the fountains move in rhythm with the music. The schedule runs every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes in the evening until midnight. People often gather along the sidewalk to watch and take photos, especially at night.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Helicopter Tour

In Las Vegas, most people choose short helicopter tours over the Las Vegas Strip, especially at night when the lights are bright and colorful. These flights usually last around 10 to 15 minutes and show you famous spots like the Bellagio fountains, High Roller, and Eiffel Tower replica. Some tours like Maverick Helicopters and Papillon Helicopters go beyond the city and take you to natural places like the Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, and Lake Mead. Some tours like GC Flight and 5 Star Helicopter Tours also offer a Champagne toast and special packages include dinner, or a visit to a local distillery.

Gondola Rides

The Gondola rides take place at The Venetian Resort, where guests can enjoy a short, peaceful boat ride guided by a singing gondolier. You can choose to ride inside the resort through the Grand Canal Shoppes or outside along the front of the hotel, depending on your preference and the weather. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and fits up to four people, though private rides are also available for a more quiet and personal experience. During the ride, the gondolier steers with a long oar and may sing songs while passing under small bridges and along buildings made to look like those in Venice, Italy.

Eldorado Canyon Mine Tours

The Eldorado Canyon Mine Tours is a great way to explore a real piece of Nevada’s past, and takes you through the old Techatticup Mine, which is the oldest and famous gold mine in southern Nevada. The tour includes a walk through the mine and the area around it, where you’ll see old tools, buildings, and mining equipment. Guides share stories about how people worked and lived during the gold rush days. The site has a ghost town feel, with cars, barns, and wooden structures that make it popular for movie shoots. The tour is both above and below ground, and it’s not too hard to walk through.

Kayaking and Rafting on the Colorado River

Kayaking and rafting on the Colorado River start from places like Willow Beach or Peach Springs, near Las Vegas. Kayak trips often take you through Black Canyon, where you can see tall cliffs, caves, and maybe even bighorn sheep or bald eagles. Some trips include a visit to Emerald Cave, a natural spot where the sunlight makes the water shine with a green color. Longer rafting trips may include camping by the river and riding through remote parts of the Grand Canyon. Most tours like Blazin’ Paddles and Evolution Expeditions Kayak Tours are guided with safety gear, so you don’t need to bring much.

Off-Road Drives

Off-road drives in Las Vegas are a fun way to explore the desert and mountains around the city. There are many trails, from easy dirt roads to rocky paths that need a strong 4×4 vehicle. Some popular spots include Wheeler Pass, Valley of Fire OHV Loop, and Rocky Gap Trail. These places offer views of red rocks, open land, and sometimes wild animals. Lucky Strike OHV Trail is an other favorite, with hills and turns that make the ride exciting. If you don’t have your own off-road vehicle, you can join a guided tour. Companies like Las Vegas Elite Offroad offer 2 hours trip in powerful side-by-side vehicles.

Skydiving and Hot Air Balloon Rides

Skydiving and hot air balloon rides offer two very different ways to see Las Vegas from above. Most skydiving trips take place just outside the city, and companies like GoJump Las Vegas and Skydive Las Vegas offer tandem jumps, where you’re safely attached to a trained instructor. After a short lesson, you’ll fly up in a small plane and jump from about 13,000 feet. The freefall lasts around 40 to 60 seconds before the parachute opens, giving you a few minutes to enjoy the view.

On the other hand, hot air balloon rides are calm and quiet. These rides usually happen at sunrise, when the air is cool and the sky is clear. You’ll float slowly over the desert, with views of the mountains and open land. Some rides include extras like a Champagne toast or breakfast after landing. Companies like Vegas Balloon Rides offer shared and private flights, and some even provide hotel pickup. Balloon rides often reach heights of 1,000 to 3,000 feet and last about an hour.

Speed Vegas – Drive Supercars

The Speed Vegas is a place where you can drive real supercars on a racetrack. It’s part of a large motorsports park that also includes go-karts and off-road driving. At Speed Vegas, you can choose from many high-performance cars like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Audi, and Corvette. You don’t need to be a pro driver — trained instructors help you learn the basics before you get behind the wheel. Each driving session includes safety gear, a short lesson, and laps around the track with coaching. The track is built for speed, and includes turns and straight sections that let you feel the power of the car.

Outdoor Shooting Range

Outdoor shooting ranges give visitors a chance to try different firearms in a safe and open-air setting. One of the most popular places is Battlefield Vegas, which offers both indoor and outdoor shooting. It’s located just a short drive from the Strip and has a wide range of guns, from handguns to fully automatic rifles. Guests can choose from different shooting packages, and trained staff guide you through the experience. Another option is Gun Blast Vegas, which focuses only on outdoor shooting. It’s a good choice for first-time shooters and people who want an exciting activity away from the busy city.

Hiking & Nature Trails

Las Vegas is known for its bright lights and busy streets, but it also has many hiking and nature trails nearby that show a beau tiful side of the area. Red Rock Canyon is one of the most popular places for hiking, with trails like Calico Tanks and Ice Box Canyon. These trails take you through red rock formations, small canyons, and desert plants. Valley of Fire State Park is another great spot, with trails like Fire Wave and Mouse’s Tank that lead to colorful rocks and old petroglyphs.

If you want cooler weather and forest views, Mount Charleston has trails like Mary Jane Falls and Cathedral Rock. These hikes are higher up in the mountains and offer shade, trees, and even snow in winter. First Creek Canyon and White Rock Mountain Loop are also good choices for people who want to see desert views and maybe spot wildlife. Most trails are open year-round, but it’s best to hike early in the day during summer because it gets very hot.

Golfing Courses

In Las Vegas, one of the famous is Shadow Creek Golf Course, known for its well-kept course, though it’s one of the more expensive places to play. If you want to play near the Strip, the Wynn Golf Club is right in the middle of the city and offers a full 18-hole course with nice views. For a relaxed round, Angel Park Golf Club has two courses and even a lighted par-3 course for evening play. Bali Hai Golf Club is also popular spot, with water features that make it feel like a tropical spot. For something special, Bear’s Best Las Vegas has holes copied from famous Jack Nicklaus courses around the world.

Photography Tour

The Photography tours are a fun way to explore Las Vegas while getting great pictures taken by a pro. These tours are made for people who want to capture memories without having to take selfies or ask strangers for help. Some tours take you along the Las Vegas Strip in a limo, stopping at famous spots like the Bellagio fountains, the Welcome to Las Vegas sign, and the Eiffel Tower replica. Others are walking tours that go through places like Fremont Street or Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. You can also find some tours that focus on natural spots, like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Built in 1959 and designed by Betty Willis, Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is a popular landmark that sits near the south end of Las Vegas Boulevard. It’s free to visit and open all day and night, so people often stop by any time to take photos, especially at night when the lights make it stand out. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Las Vegas and is often used for travel memories, wedding pictures, and tourist selfies. The back of the sign has a message that reads “Drive Carefully” and “Come Back Soon,” and there may be people offering to take you photo, but there’s no pressure to buy.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas

The Nevada State Museum is a place where you can learn about the state’s past in a simple and clear way. It has exhibits that cover many topics, like the natural history of the area, early Native American life, the building of Hoover Dam, and how Las Vegas became a major city. You’ll see things like a mammoth skeleton, old mining tools, and displays about the atomic testing era. There’s also a section that talks about famous people from Nevada, including the Rat Pack and Howard Hughes. One of the new exhibits focuses on the Old Spanish Trail and how it helped connect different parts of the West.

Arte Museum Las Vegas

The Arte Museum Las Vegas is a digital art space at CityCenter, covering around 30,000 square feet with immersive displays that mix moving visuals, sound, and scent. It was created by a South Korean team named d’strict and follows the theme “Eternal Nature.” The museum has several themed rooms like digital waterfalls, glowing flowers, starlit beaches, and some dedicated areas where you can draw an animal and watch them coming to life on the wall. Visitors walk through the rooms and each offers something different, and the lights, colors, and sounds work together to create a unique feeling.

The Venetian Las Vegas

The Venetian Las Vegas is a large resort located on the Strip and is designed to look like Venice, Italy, complete with indoor canals and gondola rides. It offers all-suite rooms that are bigger than many other hotels in the area, with sunken living spaces, large bathrooms, and soft beds. The resort includes the Grand Canal Shoppes, where visitors can walk beside small canals, shop at over 150 stores, and enjoy food from well-known chefs. There’s a full casino, a large pool deck, a spa, and plenty of places to relax. Guests can take a gondola ride both inside or outside, with singing gondoliers guiding the way.

Nevada State Railroad Museum Boulder City

Built in 1931, Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City is a place where you can learn about trains and how they helped build the Hoover Dam. It has displays, including old locomotives, train cars, and tools used in the past. One of the best parts is the train ride, where you can ride in a restored coach from the early 1900s. The ride lasts about 40 minutes and takes you through the desert with views of the El Dorado Valley and nearby mountains. Inside, you’ll find model trains, a mail car, exhibits about how trains shape Nevada, and enjoy the themed rides like Halloween Express or Santa Train.

The Punk Rock Museum

Opened in 2023, The Punk Rock Museum is a place where people can learn about punk music and its history in a fun and hands-on way. It was started by Fat Mike from the band NOFX and get help from other musicians and artists. Inside, you’ll find over 1,000 items like guitars, posters, clothes, and photos from punk bands around the world. Some displays include things from bands like The Ramones, Black Flag, and The Clash. There’s also a room where visitors can play real instruments once used by punk musicians. Guided tours are led by real punk musicians, which makes the visit more special.

World Market Center Las Vegas

The World Market Center Las Vegas is a large event space that hosts trade shows, markets, and special events. It covers about five million square feet and includes three main buildings and several event areas. Twice a year, it holds the Las Vegas Market, which brings together thousands of furniture, home décor, and gift companies from around the world. It also has a space called The Expo, which is used for big shows, sports events, and concerts. Other areas include the Grand Plaza for outdoor events, the Atrium for weddings and parties, and WorldView, a banquet room with scenic views of the Strip.

Fremont Street Experience

The Fremont Street Experience is an open-air area filled with lights, music, and street performers, offering a mix of old Vegas charm and entertainment. Its main feature is the Viva Vision canopy, a huge overhead screen that runs hourly light shows with music every night. The street hosts free live concerts on three different stages, featuring rock, pop, and country bands. Thrill-seekers can try SlotZilla Zipline, which lets riders fly over the crowd either seated or in a superhero pose. It’s a home to classic casinos like Golden Nugget and Binion’s, along with bars, food spots, and shops selling souvenirs.

Stratosphere Tower

The Stratosphere Tower is a part of The STRAT Hotel, and the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S., standing at 1,149 feet at the north end of the Strip. Visitors can go up to levels 108 and 109 for indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer stunning views of Las Vegas. The tower is also home to thrill rides like Big Shot, which launches riders up 160 feet, X-Scream, which tilts you over the edge, and Insanity is a spinning arm that extends over the side. At the top, there’s also the rotating Top of the World restaurant, where people can enjoy a meal while turning for full 360-degree views.

Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a large concrete structure built between 1931 and 1936 in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, right on the border between Nevada and Arizona. The dam stands 726 feet tall and stretches 1,244 feet across, holding Lake Mead, which is one of the biggest man-made lakes in the country. Visitors can walk or drive across the top of the dam. There’s a visitor center with exhibits, a rooftop deck, and guided tours that take you inside the dam and power plant. You can walk across the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which gives scenic views of the dam from above.

Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

The Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum is a place where visitors can explore strange and spooky items collected from around the world. It was opened by Zak Bagans, the host of the TV show Ghost Adventures, and it has more than 30 rooms filled with haunted objects, creepy displays, and dark stories. Some of the most talked-about items include the Dybbuk Box, which many believe is cursed, and Peggy the Doll, which is said to cause strange reactions in people. There’s also the Devil’s Rocking Chair from a famous case that inspired a horror movie, and the van was once used by Dr. Jack Kevorkian.

Hollywood Cars Museum & Liberace Garage

The Hollywood Cars Museum & Liberace Garage is a place where visitors can see more than 100 famous and unusual cars from movies, TV shows, and music history. Guests can find cars from Back to the Future, The Fast and the Furious, Batman, and The Flintstones, as well as vehicles from shows like Knight Rider and Starsky and Hutch. Some are original cars used during filming, while others are exact replicas made to look like the real thing. In the Liberace Garage, you’ll find eye-catching cars that once belonged to Liberace, decorated with things like shiny stones, and even piano-themed designs.

Erotic Heritage Museum

Opened in 2008, Erotic Heritage Museum is a place that explores human sexuality through art, history, and education. It covers about 24,000 square feet, with many exhibits spread across two floors. Inside, you’ll find a wide mix of displays, including erotic art, sculptures, photos, and even old adult film posters. Some rooms focus on topics like sex in space, the history of adult films, and how different cultures view sexuality. There’s also a section called the Wall of Shame that highlights scandals involving public figures. It’s focus is to teach about human behavior, relationships, and freedom of expression.

Nostalgia Street Rods

The Nostalgia Street Rods is a private museum that features over 150 classic cars, mostly from 1910 to 1965, along with a large collection of vintage memorabilia. Started by the Gunnell family, the museum includes hot rods, street rods, and rare vehicles that have been carefully restored and displayed indoors. Visitors can see signed sports gear, music memorabilia, and antiques that reflect American culture from the past. Items include autographs from Elvis Presley, Kobe Bryant, and other well-known figures. Guided tours led by team members, talk about the cars and a huge collections on display.

Shelby American Inc.

The Shelby American Inc. is a place where car fans can learn about the history of Shelby vehicles and see how they are made today. It was started by Carroll Shelby, a race car driver and builder known for working with Ford to create high-performance cars like the Shelby Cobra and Shelby Mustang. Visitors can take a guided tour, which shows classic and modern Shelby cars, including Cobras, and Super Snakes. There’s also a large gift shop with Shelby gear and car-themed items. Visitors can book a VIP tour that includes behind-the-scenes access to the workshop where cars are built and restored.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

High Roller

The High Roller is a large observation wheel located at The LINQ Promenade on the Strip. It stands 550 feet tall and is one of the tallest of its kind in North America. The ride takes about 30 minutes to make one full turn and gives stunning views of the Las Vegas, especially at night when the lights are bright. Each cabin is air-conditioned and can hold up to 40 people, with space to walk around and take photos. There are two types of tickets — standard and Happy Half Hour. The Happy Half Hour ticket is only for those 21 and up and it includes access to an open bar inside the cabin during the ride.

Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is a place where visitors can see more than 2,000 sea animals in one spot. It covers about 105,000 square feet and has over 1.6 million gallons of water in its tanks. A major highlight is a huge tank that holds 1.3 million gallons of water and is home to sea turtles, rays, and different kinds of sharks. There’s also a tunnel where people can walk through and see sharks swimming around them. Visitors can also see a Komodo dragon, jellyfish, piranhas, and other sea creatures. The aquarium focuses on conservation, and it works with groups to protect marine life.

Discovery Children’s Museum

The Discovery Children’s Museum is a hands-on learning space made for kids and families to explore science, art, and everyday life through play. The museum covers about 58,000 square feet, filled with interactive exhibits that let kids touch, build, and try things for themselves. Some of the main areas include Water World, where children can play with water and learn how it moves, and Eco City, a pretend town where kids can shop, work, and learn about how a city runs. There’s a section called Young at Art, where kids can create their own art and see how others express ideas through color and shape.

One World Interactive Aquarium

The One World Interactive Aquarium is a hands-on attraction inside Boulevard Mall where visitors can see and touch animals from five continents, including sharks, stingrays, reptiles, birds, and even a giant Pacific octopus. Guests can walk through aviaries where birds fly freely, feed animals, and explore themed exhibits that highlight different parts of the world. For those looking for adventure, there’s an option to snorkel with reef sharks and tropical fish in a special tank. The aquarium also focuses on teaching visitors about wildlife care, protecting the planet, and hosts special events and programs.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

The Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is a wax museum where visitors can see life-size figures of famous people from music, movies, and sports. It has over 75 wax figures, including stars like Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Barker, and Bad Bunny. Guests can take photos with the figures, pose on a life-size wrecking ball, or stand next to superheroes from the Marvel Universe. There’s also a 4D Marvel movie experience with special effects like wind and water that make it feel real. Another fun part is the Carnival Carnage 7D game, where visitors play in a multi-sensory setting with lights, sound, and motion.

Illuminarium Las Vegas

The Illuminarium Las Vegas is an indoor attraction that uses lights, sound, and motion to take visitors on a journeys through different worlds. It uses 4K projection, 360-degree audio, floor vibrations, and scent effects to make each experience feel real. Guests can walk through shows that take them to places like outer space, African safari, or a glowing world inspired by Lite-Brite. There are special events like yoga sessions with visuals and music, family-friendly activities, and after-dark experiences for adults. One of the popular shows is called AMPLIFIED, which focuses on rock music and its history.

Pinball Hall of Fame

The Pinball Hall of Fame is a large museum filled with nearly 700 playable pinball machines from the 1950s to the 1990s. It is run by a nonprofit group led by Tim Arnold, and all extra money goes to charity. Visitors can play restored machines for just 25 cents for older games and 50 cents for newer ones, making it a fun and affordable stop. The space also includes a few classic arcade games, but the focus is on pinball. Unlike casinos, the museum has windows, clocks, and no loud music, creating a family-friendly vibe. The machines are grouped by era, so you can see how pinball changed over time.

Atomic Museum

The Atomic Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the history of nuclear testing in United States, especially at the Nevada Test Site. It showcase how nuclear weapons were developed and tested, and how they shaped world events during the Cold War. Inside, there are over 12,000 items, including real equipment, photos, and videos. One of the highlights is the Ground Zero Theater, where guests can watch a simulation of an atomic blast. There are exhibits about the Manhattan Project, radiation tools like Geiger counters, and personal stories from people who worked at the test site.

SlotZilla Zipline Las Vegas

The SlotZilla Zipline is a ride designed to look like a giant slot machine, letting people fly above Fremont Street in two different ways. The first option, Zip-Zilla, lets riders sit in a harness and glide from 77 feet high for three blocks, while the second, Super-Hero Zoom, sends guests flying belly-down from 114 feet high. Both rides give great views of the lights and crowds below. Before flying, visitors go through safety checks and get a small bag to hold personal items like phones and glasses. The launch tower is 12 stories tall and decorated with Vegas-themed icons like showgirls and martini glasses.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

The Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck is a half-scale version of the Paris landmark, located at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel on the Strip, standing 46 stories high and offering wide views of the city. Guests take a ride in a glass elevator that goes up high, giving them a chance to step out at the top and see some attractions like the High Roller and Bellagio Fountains. A light show runs every 30 minutes from sunset to midnight, adding to the experience. There’s also the Eiffel Tower Restaurant nearby, where guests can enjoy a meal with a view. It’s a good place for photos, and photographers are sometimes on-site.

The Aquarium at Silverton Casino

The Aquarium at Silverton Casino is a free attraction that features more than 117,000 gallons of water and is home to thousands of tropical fish. One of the main highlights is the live mermaid show, where performers dressed as mermaids swim among the fish and interact with guests through the glass. There are also daily stingray feedings, where visitors can watch staff feed the rays and learn about them. There’s a Mermaid Lounge, where you can relax with a drink and see jellyfish in a glowing 500 gallons tank. The aquarium is a part of Silverton Village, which also includes restaurants and shops.

M&M’S Las Vegas

The M&M’S Las Vegas is a four floors store located inside the Showcase Mall, and it covers 28,000 square feet filled with colorful candy and themed items. One of the main features is the personal printer, where guests can create custom M&M’S with messages, images, and 16 candy colors, including 14 Las Vegas-themed designs like wedding bells and the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. Visitors can also explore floors filled with M&M’S-branded clothes, mugs, toys, and souvenirs. There’s a race car display and several photo spots that make it easy to capture memories, and an on-site store to shop gifts.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden

The Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden is a place where visitors can enjoy fresh chocolate and walk through a three acres large cactus garden. Inside, guests can take a free self-guided tour along a viewing aisle to see how the chocolates are made in small batches without added preservatives. After the tour, visitors can stop by the gift shop or try fresh treats at the Cactus Garden Café, which serves items like brownies, cupcakes, and milkshakes. There’s also a chocolate tasting experience where guests can learn how the chocolates are made and even try wine pairings if they’re over 21.

The Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park

The Adventuredome is a 5 acres of indoor amusement park sits inside the Circus Circus Hotel & Casino right on the Las Vegas Strip. It has more than 25 rides and games for all ages, from small kids to thrill-seekers. Some of the main rides include Canyon Blaster, which is the only indoor roller coaster with double loops and double corkscrews, and El Loco, a fast ride with sharp drops and turns. It also includes fun rides like bumper cars, spinning attraction known as Disk’O, and a swinging pirate ship. For younger children, there are gentle rides and also has mini-golf, a 4D theater, and arcade games.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park

The Cowabunga Bay Water Park is a family-friendly water park, offering a wide range of attractions for all ages. The park features a massive wave pool with some of the world’s largest man-made waves, a lazy river for relaxing floats, and a variety of water slides, including high-speed thrill rides and gentler options for kids. There’s also a special area designed just for children, with smaller slides and splash zones. Guests can rent private cabanas for shade and comfort, and food stands are available throughout the park. The park also hosts special events like concerts, themed nights, and family activities.

Cowabunga Canyon Waterpark

The Cowabunga Canyon Waterpark is a fun place for people of all ages to cool off and enjoy water rides. With more than 25 different things to do, the park includes exciting slides, a large wave pool for water fun, and a lazy river to float around. Some of the popular rides are The Rattler, which twists and turns before dropping into a splash pool, and The Constrictor, a tube slide with tight curves. There’s also Ricochet Racers, where guests can race each other down six lanes on foam mats. For families, Paradise Falls has five play zones, nine small slides, and a big bucket that dumps water from above.

Dig This – Las Vegas

The Dig This in Las Vegas is a place where people can try driving real construction machines like bulldozers and excavators. Th is spot is known as the first heavy equipment playground in the U.S., and it lets guests dig, push, and move dirt using full-size machines. Before starting, everyone gets a safety talk and training from an instructor. Then, with a headset on, you follow directions while sitting in the driver’s seat. The experiences includes digging trenches, stacking tires, or playing a game called excavator basketball. The machines are easy to control after a short lesson, and staff are nearby to help.

Lion Habitat Ranch

The Lion Habitat Ranch is a nonprofit animal sanctuary located in Henderson, where visitors can see lions and other animals up close in a calm outdoor setting. The ranch offers special experiences like feeding a lion or taking a behind-the-scenes tour. Guests can also enjoy the “Feast with the Beasts” option, where they dine near the lions in a glass-enclosed area. The ranch gives a special care to lions, birds, tortoises, and other animals that were rescued or needed care to live. This ranch also runs learning programs, host guided tours, and helps teach people about protecting wildlife and nature.

Red Door Escape Room

The Red Door Escape Room is a place where groups can work together to solve puzzles and complete a mission in under an hour. Each game, called an “episode,” lasts 60 minutes and is designed for two to six players. There are different themes to choose from, like adventure, sci-fi, thriller, and fantasy, with each one offering a different level of challenge. Some rooms are better for families, while others are more suited for gamers. Before the game begins, team members get explain the basic rules so everyone knows what to expect. Players then use clues, teamwork, and logic to move through the story.

5. Entertainment Attractions

Sphere

The Sphere is a large round building made for live shows, concerts, and special events in Las Vegas. It stands 366 feet tall, 516 feet wide, and the outside is covered with lights that can show moving pictures, making it easy to spot. Inside, it can seat up to 18,600 people and has a huge screen that wraps around the audience with clear images and sound. One of the main shows is called Postcard from Earth, a 50 minutes film that takes guests on a trip around the world using lights, sound, and even smells. Before the show, visitors can meet a robot named Aura in lobby and learn how the building works.

Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

The Downtown Las Vegas Events Center is an open-air venue that regularly host sports viewing parties, live music concerts, and local gatherings. It can hold thousands of people and has a large open-air layout with flexible seating and standing areas. It’s popular for big game watch zones, where fans gather to see sports on giant LED screens, and for music shows that include both local and national acts. The venue often includes food trucks, drink stands, and VIP sections to enhance the experience. Events range from ticketed concerts to free public gatherings, making it accessible for many visitors.

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Opened in 2012, Smith Center for the Performing Arts is a big venue for live shows, and is part of an area known as Symphony Park. The center covers 5 acres and has three theaters — Reynolds Hall, Myron’s, and the Troesh Studio Theater. The Reynolds Hall is the biggest and is used for large shows like Broadway musicals and concerts. Myron’s is a smaller space for jazz and other close-up performances. The Troesh Studio Theater is a small space that hosts comedy shows, and some major performances. The Smith Center is also a home to the Las Vegas Philharmonic and the Nevada Ballet Theatre.

The Expo at World Market Center

The Expo at World Market Center is a large event venue, offering over 315,000 square feet of space for trade shows, meetings, concerts, and other gatherings. It has nearly 200,000 square feet of exhibit space split between two main halls — North and South, with a combined capacity of up to 970 booths. The venue also has a lobby-style area for gathering before events, several meeting spaces, and a wide hallway that makes it easy for visitors to move around. This center has a modern art design, and it hosts many types of events, such as business meetings, themed weddings, and special dinners.

Sunset Station Hotel and Casino

The Sunset Station Hotel and Casino offers a mix of comfort, entertainment, and value. The hotel has modern rooms with simple decor, and basic features. Guests can choose from different room types, including deluxe kings, double queens, and small suites. The casino has a wide range of games, including slots, table games, and a sportsbook. There’s also a large bowling center called Strike Zone with 72 lanes, plus an arcade and pool tables. Dining options include casual spots and sit-down restaurants like Sonoma Cellar for steaks, The Brass Fork for comfort food, and The Oyster Bar for seafood.

T-Mobile Arena

Opened in 2016, T-Mobile Arena is a large indoor venue, located behind the New York-New York and Park MGM hotels, and it hosts concerts, sports, and live events throughout the year. It can hold up to 20,000 people depending on the event and is also home to the Vegas Golden Knights hockey team. The arena is a popular spot for hosting big events like basketball games, wrestling, UFC, and well-known shows like the Latin Grammys and Billboard Music Awards. The arena has different seating options, including regular seats, luxury suites, and VIP areas like the Hyde Lounge and Terrace Tables.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway

The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is a large racing complex, covering 1,200 acres with a 1.5 miles superspeedway and several smaller tracks for different types of racing. It hosts major events like the NASCAR Pennzoil 400 and South Point 400, NHRA drag races, and other motorsports throughout the year. Inside, there’s a short track called The Bullring where fans can watch regional and local car races. The venue offers shuttle services during big events, and camping is available on-site with 24-hour security. The speedway also hosts local community events like blood drives and charity fundraisers.

Allegiant Stadium

Opened in 2020, Allegiant Stadium is a large indoor stadium and also the home field for the Las Vegas Raiders football team and the UNLV Rebels college football team. It has about 65,000 seats for fans, but it can be made bigger to fit more than 71,000 people during some large events. It’s fully enclosed and climate-controlled, which makes it a good place for events. The stadium hosts concerts, soccer games, wrestling shows, and events like the Super Bowl and college football championships. One special part of the stadium is a tall torch built to remember Al Davis, who once owned the Raiders.

Circus Circus Hotel and Casino

The Circus Circus Hotel and Casino is a family-friendly resort on the Las Vegas Strip with over 3,700 rooms spread across several towers, including the Casino Tower, Skyrise Tower, and West Tower, each offering basic features. It’s best known for The Adventuredome, a 5 acres indoor theme park with rides and games for all ages, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a 4D theater. The hotel also features the Midway and big arcade, where visitors can watch free circus shows, and play old-school games every day. For adults, the casino has table games, slot machines, and a place to bet on sports.

6. Natural Attractions

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a free indoor garden inside the Bellagio Hotel, covering 14,000 square feet. It changes its displays five times a year to match the seasons — spring, summer, fall, winter, and Lunar New Year, with each setup made from thousands of real flowers, plants, and trees. The summer display, called “Glam Menagerie,” features animal figures dressed in costumes inspired by European art, placed in colorful setting that mix fantasy and history. Visitors can walk through the garden and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of each display, with many photo spots.

Springs Preserve

Covering 180 acres, Springs Preserve features walking trails, desert gardens, museums, and event spaces that mix nature, history, and learning. Visitors can explore the Origen Museum, which shares stories about the Las Vegas Valley, and the Desert Living Center, which teaches how to live in the desert using less water and energy. There are themed trails that go through wetlands and desert areas, giving people a chance to see native plants and animals that thrive here. Families can enjoy playground, splash pad, and train rides to Boomtown 1905, a small area that looks like an old Las Vegas town.

Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden

The Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden is the largest cactus garden in Nevada, features over 300 kinds of plants, such as succulents and cacti from places like the Australia, American Southwest, and South America. Visitors can walk through the garden paths and see how these plants grow in the desert climate. During the holiday season, the garden is decorated with over a million lights, and guests can enjoy hot chocolate and meet Santa. For Valentine’s Day, the garden hosts a special event called Lights of Love, where couples can walk through the garden and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries.

Clark County Wetlands Park

Covering 2,900 acres, Clark County Wetlands Park offers well-kept walking trails, spots to see wildlife, and areas for learning about the ecosystem. There’s a 210 acres of Nature Preserve with walking paths, ponds, and shaded spots to relax or watch birds and other desert animals. The park helps clean stormwater flowing through the Las Vegas Wash using plants and ponds to slow and filter the water before it reaches Lake Mead. The park offers programs like guided walks, art classes, and Discovery Days for kids. Visitors can enjoy biking, photography, or a quiet walk through desert and wetland areas.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a scenic outdoor destination, known for its red sandstone cliffs, desert plants, and scenic views of the Mojave Desert. The area features a 13 miles one-way scenic drive that passes trailheads, overlooks, and rock formations, with over 25 hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes like the Calico Tanks Trail. The Visitor Center showcase exhibits, maps, and a gift shop, with staff available to help plan you with information. Visitors can enjoy many outdoor activities like biking, rock climbing, and taking photos of the desert scenery.

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Covering over 500 acres, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park offering hiking trails, shaded picnic spots, and a look into Nevada’s ranching past. It includes natural springs, grassy fields, and tall trees that made it a good place for early settlers. Visitors can explore some of the oldest buildings in the state, like an 1860s blacksmith shop, Sandstone Cabin, and the main ranch house. The park hosts living history programs in spring and fall, where people dress up and show how early settlers lived and worked. There are picnic tables, and restrooms for day use, and a group area is available by reservation.

Lone Mountain Park

Covers about 22 acres, Lone Mountain Park has walking trails with scenic views of Las Vegas, and there are also paths that connect to the Lone Mountain trail system. The park has picnic areas, some of which can be reserved, while others are first come, first served. There are two pickleball, basketball, and tennis courts for people who enjoy sports. Kids can play in playgrounds, including a fun log and horse-themed area and an education zone in the discovery section. The park has equestrian facilities, including a practice arena and two round pens, making it a popular spot for people with horses.

Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Covering over 48,000 acres, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is a quiet desert space started in 2002 to protect the natural desert and cultural history of the area. One of the main highlights is the Petroglyph Canyon, which has more than 300 rock panels and nearly 1,700 designs made by Native American groups from long ago. These drawings are carved into the rocks and show symbols and shapes from the Archaic to historic periods. The area also includes the North McCullough Wilderness, which is made up of old volcanic rock, giving visitors a chance to enjoy nature in its natural state.

7. Day Trips & Excursions

Valley of Fire State Park

Taking a day trip to Valley of Fire State Park takes around an hour drive from Las Vegas and is known for its bright red rock formations made from Aztec sandstone. These rocks look like they’re glowing when the sun hits them, which is how the park got its name. The park covers over 40,000 acres and has a scenic drive, hiking trails, and places to stop and take photos. Some popular places to check out includes the White Domes Trail, Fire Wave Trail, Elephant Rock, and Mouse’s Tank. The park is also ho me to petroglyphs — the ancient rock carvings made by Native American groups many years ago.

Grand Canyon National Park

From Las Vegas, a day trip to Grand Canyon National Park takes roughly 2 to 4 hours drive, that lets you see one of the most famous natural sights in the U.S. This park has many viewpoints like Yavapai Point, Mather Point, and Bright Angel Trail, where you can enjoy scenic views of the canyon. The South Rim has a visitor center for getting information, and food options. The West Rim is run by the Hualapai Tribe and is home to the Skywalk, a glass bridge that stretches over the canyon. You can drive yourself or join a tour, with options that include bus rides, small group vans, or even helicopter flights.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Planning a day trip to Lake Mead National Recreation Area takes just 45 minutes from Las Vegas and covers 1.5 million acres, including the large lake, desert views, and spots to relax. Visitors can drive to places like Boulder Beach or Hemenway Harbor for picnics, swimming, or fishing. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or boats from local marinas like Lake Mead Marina or Willow Beach. If you like hiking, the Historic Railroad Trail is an easy path with views of the lake and nearby mountains. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Desert Princess, a paddlewheel-style vessel that cruises near Hoover Dam.

Death Valley National Park

From Las Vegas, a day trip to Death Valley National Park takes nearly 2.5 hours drive and an exciting way to explore a different kind of landscape. Once inside the park, you can visit some of the most popular spots like Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View. Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, and you can walk across the wide salt flats. Zabriskie Point has colorful hills and is a great place for photos, especially in the morning light. Dante’s View sits high above the valley floor and other stops include Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Artist’s Drive, a scenic road with colorful rocks.

Mojave National Preserve

Taking a day trip to Mojave National Preserve takes around 2.5 hours from Las Vegas is a peaceful way to explore the desert. It covers over 1.6 million acres and is one of the largest protected desert areas in the U.S. Visitors can see open spaces, Joshua trees, sand dunes, lava fields, and old volcanic rock. A favorite stop for many visitors is Kelso Dunes, where you can walk through soft sand and, if you slide down the slopes, sometimes hear a humming sound made by the dunes. Another popular stop is the Lava Tube, a short hike that leads to a dark cave with light shining through holes in the ceiling.

St. George, UT

From Las Vegas, a day trip to St. George in Utah takes around 2 hours drive, covering around 120 miles. Once arrived, you can explore places like Pioneer Park, which has red rock formations and easy trails, or visit the St. George Temple and historic downtown area. Nearby, Snow Canyon State Park offers short hikes, lava tubes, and views of red and white sandstone. The city also has small art galleries, many museums, mix of shopping outlets, and restaurants where you can stop for lunch. The area is known for its warm weather and welcoming atmosphere, making it a good place to walk and relax.

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Start a day trip from Las Vegas, and drive for 2.5 hours to reach Lake Havasu City in Arizona, offers a small-town feel. Once arrived, the main attraction is the London Bridge, which was moved from England in the 1960s and now connects the city to an island with beaches and walking paths. You can walk across the bridge, take photos, or enjoy a boat ride on the lake. The Bridgewater Channel is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. If you like hiking, the Sara Park trails offer views of the desert and lake. You can stop for lunch at a local café or grab a picnic to enjoy by the beach.

How to Reach Las Vegas

Most travelers arrive by air at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), just a few miles from the Strip, which serves many nonstop domestic and international flights, including from cities like New York City, Chicago, and Seattle. The airport offers easy options to get to your hotel, such as shuttles, taxis, rideshares, and rental cars. If you’re driving, Interstate 15 is the main route into the city, especially from Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, or southern Utah, with the drive taking about 4 hours, although it can get busy on weekends.

Travelers from Arizona usually drive along US-93, passing through Kingman and continuing by Hoover Dam. Las Vegas is also served by long-distance buses like Greyhound and Megabus, as well as shuttle services from cities such as St. George, UT and Phoenix, AZ. While not as common, Amtrak passengers can use a connecting bus from the Kingman, Arizona station to reach Las Vegas. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a bus, getting to Las Vegas is simple and well connected.

Local Transportation

Getting around Las Vegas is simple, with many options for visitors and locals. The Las Vegas Monorail runs along the east side of the Strip and stops at major hotels like MGM Grand, Flamingo, and Harrah’s. It’s fast, clean, and runs every few minutes, making it a good choice for moving between casinos and attractions. Taxis are easy to find at hotel entrances, but you can’t hail them from the street. They’re more expensive than rideshares, but they’re ready to go without waiting.

Las Vegas also has a public bus system called the RTC, with routes like The Deuce and SDX that run along the Strip and downtown. These buses are budget-friendly and run often, but they can be slow during busy times. Rental cars are available at the airport and around the city, but parking fees at some hotels and traffic on the Strip can be a hassle. For short trips, walking is a good option, especially in cooler months, though the Strip is longer than it looks.

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