Las Vegas is known as the entertainment capital of the world, and for good reason. The city offers a dazzling array of shows, restaurants, museums, and attractions that cater to every taste and budget. But what if you are not interested in gambling, or you want to take a break from the casinos and try something different? Don’t worry, Las Vegas has plenty of fun things to do that don’t involve gambling, and that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Here are 10 ideas for fun things to do in Las Vegas that are not related to gambling.
10 Fun Things to Do in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a city that needs no introduction. This dazzling metropolis in the Nevada desert is world-famous for its glitzy casinos, luxury hotels, and endless entertainment options. Known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” Vegas offers something exciting for everyone. From spectacular shows to adventurous activities, there are so many fun things to do in Las Vegas.
See a Show
The first thing that likely comes to mind when you think of Las Vegas is seeing a show. This city is home to some of the most stunning production shows, Broadway musicals, concerts, comedy acts, and more. If you want a truly memorable Vegas experience, you must see at least one show during your visit.
Cirque du Soleil
No single act dominates the Las Vegas strip quite like Cirque du Soleil. This artful Canadian circus troupe combines unbelievable acrobatics, dazzling costumes, captivating music, and creative themes. Can’t-miss Cirque shows include “O” at Bellagio, “Mystère” at Treasure Island, and “Michael Jackson ONE” at Mandalay Bay.
Magic Shows
Las Vegas has always been a magicians’ playground. The city’s longest-running magic show is Penn & Teller at the Rio. Other popular magic and mentalist shows include Criss Angel MINDFREAK at Planet Hollywood and David Copperfield at MGM Grand. Prepare to be astounded!
Broadway Musicals
If you love musical theater, Las Vegas is home to live Broadway-style musical acts and shows. Enjoy classics like “The Lion King” at Mandalay Bay or “Phantom of the Opera” at The Venetian. Some musical acts even feature A-list celebrities – don’t miss Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, or Aerosmith if they are performing during your visit.
Ride the High Roller
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a ride on the High Roller observation wheel. At 550 feet tall, this Ferris wheel offers unmatched views of the strip and city. The iconic wheel has 28 transparent cabins and takes 30 minutes to complete one full revolution. Ride at dusk to see Las Vegas light up in all its glittering glory.
Explore Fremont Street
Also called “Old Vegas,” Fremont Street is where Las Vegas first started as a city. Today, Fremont Street features an exciting pedestrian mall and attraction known as the Fremont Street Experience. The barrel-vaulted canopy 90 feet overhead comes alive with a state-of-the-art sound and light show. With classic neon signs, vibrant casinos, street performers, and lively bars, Fremont Street lets you experience historic Vegas ambiance.
Take in City Views
See Las Vegas from new heights by visiting observation decks like those at The STRAT or the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck. For a thrill, ride the adrenaline-pumping rides at the STRAT – SkyJump from 108 floors up or try the heart-stopping insanity of Insanity. Other great views await at the High Roller or from the VooDoo Lounge atop the Rio.
Go Shopping
Las Vegas is a shopper’s paradise with huge malls and shopping centers filled with top brands and designer boutiques. Some must-visit shopping destinations include The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, and Las Vegas Premium Outlets. You can find anything from haute couture fashions to souvenirs and gifts.
Relax at a Pool Party
Las Vegas hotels like to go big when it comes to pools. You can spend whole days lounging poolside at lavish resort pools and pool clubs. Popular daylife spots include Wet Republic at MGM Grand, Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan, and Encore Beach Club at Wynn. No trip to Las Vegas is complete without checking out at least one pool party or day club.
Tour the Strip
The legendary 4+ mile Strip is the epicenter of the Las Vegas action. Take time to walk or drive the Strip and marvel at the sheer spectacle of it all. In a short stretch, you’ll see famous hotels like Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and the Venetian along with replicas of global icons like the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. The Las Vegas Strip is sensory overload in the best possible way.
See the Bellagio Fountains
The dancing fountains at Bellagio are a mesmerizing Las Vegas sight. Watch as the fountains sway and shoot water choreographed precisely to music and lights. Bellagio offers free fountain shows in the evenings every 30 minutes until midnight. For romantic views, take a gondola ride on the lake out front.
Marvel at Wynn’s Lake of Dreams
Steve Wynn spared no expense when he created the magical Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas. Each night, the lake comes to life with a dazzling display of water, music, light, and imagery. Don’t miss the spectacular show featuring giant floating kaleidoscopic discs over the water.
Tour Hoover Dam
Take a break from the Vegas scene with a visit to the iconic Hoover Dam. Drive about 30 miles southeast of the Strip to tour the massive dam, which holds back the waters of Lake Mead. Walk across the crest of the arch-gravity dam for thrilling views. Go deeper with a power plant tour to see the inner workings.
Do the Thrills at Stratosphere
At 1,149 feet, the Stratosphere Tower looms large north of the Strip. Three extreme thrill rides await atop this observation tower. Scale SkyJump for a controlled free fall from 108 floors up. Zip around at speeds up to 40 mph on Insanity. Or teeter over the edge on X-Scream. The Stratosphere will get your heart racing!
Play Some Golf
Sin City offers much more than just craps and blackjack. The city is actually home to dozens of pristine golf courses, perfect for escaping the casino. Tee off at championship courses like TPC Las Vegas, Bali Hai Golf Club, or Shadow Creek Golf Course. You can also find affordable municipal and public courses for a quick golf getaway.
Go Clubbing
When the sun goes down, Las Vegas comes alive with hot nightclubs. Dance the night away at renowned megaclubs like Hakkasan at MGM Grand, XS Nightclub at Encore, and Omnia at Caesars Palace. For a wild party, check out Drai’s rooftop club on the Strip or After-hours clubbing downtown.
Ride a Roller Coaster
For high-speed thrills, catch a ride on a world-class roller coaster on the Strip. Race up to 67 mph on The Big Apple Coaster in New York New York. Experience weightlessness on the world’s tallest slot machine coaster at Circus Circus. Or blast into an underground tunnel on El Loco at Adventuredome Theme Park. Feel the rush!
With so much to see and do, Las Vegas truly offers endless options for entertainment. See a spectacular Cirque du Soleil show, party at a luxurious pool club, marvel at dancing fountains, and explore the neon-lit Strip. However you choose to spend your time, a visit to Las Vegas promises nonstop fun and excitement you’ll never forget. Let yourself be dazzled by this one-of-a-kind city and create memories to last a lifetime.
Experience Fremont Street Nightlife
While the Strip offers luxury megaclubs, Fremont Street provides a grittier, old-school nightlife option. The Fremont Street Experience comes alive at night with street performers, free live music, and an electric party atmosphere. Sip on cheap drinks and play some low-limit table games at classic casinos like the Golden Nugget, Plaza Hotel, and El Cortez. Or stop by one of Fremont’s cool cocktail lounges like the Underground or Commonwealth.
See the Neon Museum
For a trip back in Vegas history, visit the Neon Museum also known as the Neon Boneyard. This outdoor museum displays over 200 iconic neon signs saved from long-gone hotels and businesses around Sin City. Wander among the retro neon art and relive the golden age of Las Vegas. Guided tours provide fascinating insight into the city’s history and neon art.
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Watch a Comedy Show
Laugh the night away with Las Vegas’s stellar comedy scene. Carnegie Hall at the Mirage offers a mix of legends like Jay Leno along with rising stars. Catch the hilarious “Potted Potter” parody show at Bally’s Las Vegas. For edgier late-night comedy, check out Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club at The LINQ Promenade. No matter your sense of humor, Las Vegas has a comedy show that will make you laugh.
See a Residency Show
Las Vegas residencies featuring A-list musicians have become a showstopper attraction. Contemporary stars like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Usher, and Aerosmith have taken up multi-date residencies in recent years. In many cases, these are exclusive shows seen only in Vegas. Pop and country fans can often enjoy their favorite stars in an intimate residency setting.
Marvel at the Wildlife Habitat
See flamingos, koi fish, and even African penguins without leaving the Strip! The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Las Vegas offers a peaceful oasis. This 15-acre habitat provides a natural outdoor escape with waterfalls, lily pads, and lush foliage. It’s free to stroll the garden paths and observe birds and fish up close in their Vegas home.
Tour the Mob Museum
Learn the real stories behind Las Vegas’s mafia past at The Mob Museum. This extensive museum is set inside a former courthouse where mob hearings were held in 1950-51. Explore intriguing exhibits covering mob history, gangsters and lawmen, the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, and more. An ideal activity for learning what really shaped this famed city over the decades.
With its boundless range of entertainment, attractions, nightlife, and activities both on and off the Strip, Las Vegas offers endless possibilities for an unforgettable vacation full of fun. Whether you love shows, partying, thrill rides, attractions, or exploring history, Las Vegas has it all. With so many options to fill your itinerary, you’re sure to find plenty of fun things to enjoy in this one-of-a-kind destination.
Fun thing to do in Las Vegas(FAQs)
What is the best time of year to visit Las Vegas?
The best times to visit Las Vegas are spring and fall when the weather is ideal. Avoid summer when temperatures can reach over 100°F. Winters are mild but can be chilly at night.
How many days do you need for a Las Vegas trip?
Most people find 3-5 days is ideal to experience Las Vegas, depending on your interests. It allows time to see shows, attractions, hotels, pools, and clubs, and take a day trip or two if desired.
What is there to do in Las Vegas besides gamble?
Tons of things! Las Vegas offers world-class shows, concerts, attractions like the High Roller, Fremont Street, shopping, pool parties, nightclubs, comedy clubs, thrill rides, and more. Gambling is just one option.
How much does the average trip to Vegas cost?
Excluding gambling and shows, budget $1000-$1500 for a 3-4 night trip for two. Costs add up with rooms, dining, drinks, rides, clubs, transportation. Deals exist but Vegas is not generally a budget destination.
Is Las Vegas safe for tourists?
Yes, the Las Vegas Strip area is generally very safe for tourists. Always be vigilant of your surroundings but violent crime is rare. Casino security and police keep the tourist zones secure. Avoid side streets at night.
What is the best way to get around Las Vegas?
On the Strip, walking and Uber/Lyft rides are most convenient. For sights off the Strip, renting a car is ideal. Buses and taxis are available but may be less efficient options. Monorail and trams can help you get between major hotels.
Q: How much does it cost to go to a show in Las Vegas?
A: The cost of going to a show in Las Vegas depends on the type, the popularity, and the availability of the show. Generally, the prices range from $30 to $300 per ticket, but they can vary depending on the day, the time, and the seat. You can find discounts and deals online or through your hotel.
Q: What are the best museums to visit in Las Vegas?
A: The best museums to visit in Las Vegas depend on your interests and preferences. Some of the most popular and interesting museums in Las Vegas are the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, the Titanic Artifact Exhibition, the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the Pinball Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
Las Vegas is truly the world’s capital of entertainment. This legendary city offers endless possibilities for fun and excitement with its lavish hotels and casinos, sensational live shows, attraction-packed Strip, lively nightlife, and so much more. Experience the thrill of riding a roller coaster or viewing colorful fountains shows. Dance the night away at a luxurious pool club and then relax in style at a world-class spa. In Las Vegas, indulgence and extravagance are the name of the game. With this guide of the top things to do, you are guaranteed an unforgettable time in this one-of-a-kind destination. Come ready to play, be entertained, dine in style, and party in pure Vegas fashion. Las Vegas is calling you to a vacation unlike any other!