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17 Reasons Why You Should...

Why You Should Visit Las Vegas at Least Once in Your Lifetime

There are many reasons why one should visit Las Vegas. Known as the ultimate playground, the city is colorful and vibrant, making it an ideal destination for various travelers looking to explore its entertainment, cuisine, and nightlife scene.

Las Vegas attracts visitors from all corners of the world who are looking to explore the city’s best tourist attractions. From the famous Las Vegas Strip to the wild pool parties, uncover the beauty of Sin City and find out why you should visit Las Vegas at least once in your lifetime.

The Las Vegas Strip

You can’t visit Las Vegas and not visit the Strip. Known as one of the most famous streets in the world, Las Vegas Boulevard is always buzzing. Home to many hotels like the Bellagio, Ceasars Palace and the Stratosphere, the Strip also offers endless food and drink options, not to mention a chance to catch a musical show.

It gets hot in Las Vegas – really hot. With temperatures that can reach over 110°F (43.3°C) in the summer, it might seem like the weather in the city would be a drawback to its visitors. However, hotel pools and day clubs draw huge crowds, particularly during summer, turning them into day clubs with water. Temperatures remain mild enough in the winter to enjoy the outdoors, making Las Vegas a great place to visit year-round.

Aria resort on the Strip places an emphasis on design and outdoor pools

Hoover Dam is an architectural marvel and a tribute to the American dream . Built during The Great Depression , the 726-foot-tall (221.2-meter) structure creates the largest reservoir in the country and is one of the tallest dams in the world, after the Oroville Dam in California and the Jinping-I Dam in China.

Hoover Dam, a major tourist attraction located on the border between the states of Nevada and Arizona, USA

Excellent service

Since Las Vegas depends on tourism to drive its economy, the Las Vegas Strip maintains its status as a top travel destination by taking good care of visitors with hotels often encouraging employees to do anything they (legally) can to take care of their guests. Properties such as the Aria, Mandarin Hotel, and Bellagio have earned Five-Star AAA Diamond Ratings, and neighboring properties have received four stars. These ratings are proof that luxury, style, and comfort are the priority for every guest on the Strip.

The Neon Museum

Since Las Vegas is a city that is constantly changing, preservation of its history becomes vital. The Neon Museum does just this, mainly through the signages of its former casinos and businesses. Visitors can find remnants of some of the oldest businesses, including The Steiner’s laundry service, The Ugly Duckling Car Sales, and the pirate skull that once adorned Treasure Island. If you’re looking to learn more about the city’s past and find out how it became the Sin City we know today, a visit to the Neon Museum is a must.

Proximity to other vacation destinations

Another plus side to visiting Las Vegas is how close it is to other places. Las Vegas is three hours’ drive from Big Bear in California and Zion National Park in Utah. Death Valley National Park and the Grand Canyon are two hours away, and with enough careful planning, you can maximize your time by squeezing in numerous destinations in one trip.

Zion Canyon and the Virgin River at Zion National Park in Utah are spectacular in autumn

Premiere city to party

You know what they say; whatever happens in Vegas stays in Vegas! It’s the place to visit if you are looking to party, whether it’s with the stars or the locals. With tons of nightclubs spread out in the city, especially the Strip, you can choose to party when darkness set as well as in the middle of the day. Besides the plethora of nightclubs, the Las Vegas hotel pools and day clubs allow visitors to party 24 hours a day in a fun atmosphere with world-renowned DJs playing the latest hits.

Fascinating history

Las Vegas has a history as unique as its reputation. With its early beginnings as a mining town to its rise underneath organized crime to Elvis, there’s a little bit of everything in the story of Las Vegas. Tourists can see this firsthand, from the Historic Mormon Fort to the college gym where Ann Margaret and Elvis filmed Viva Las Vegas.

Desert and mountains in one place

Las Vegas’ surroundings may be desert, but if you know where to look, you can greener areas. A short drive north will take visitors to Mount Charleston, a green oasis in the middle of the desert. With 12 hiking trails, seven picnic sites, and six campgrounds available and a modest ski area, Mount Charleston offers a cool alternative to the blistering heat that can overtake the Las Vegas Valley and can be visited all year around.

The people on the Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip is brimming with characters. At any given time, tourists can take pictures with Transformers, sexy pirates and Minions, or watch spray-paint artists and breakdancers at work. No matter what time of day, you’ll come across at least one or two people to tell stories about when you get home.

Las Vegas showgirls in pink feather boas and headdresses on the Strip, Nevada, USA

The entertainment

Besides drinking and partying, Las Vegas is home to incredible live entertainment . Since the early days of the Rat Pack and Elvis to current headliners such as Terry Fator, Penn and Teller, and Cirque du Soleil, Las Vegas has always been at the heart of the entertainment industry. Visitors can find anyone and anything on the Strip today, from house pets to zombie dancers.

Cirque du Soleil – Mystere – performance in Las Vegas

Late-night entertainment

Las Vegas has plenty of ways to keep you busy at night thanks to the city’s popular after-hours venues. Situated on the Las Vegas Strip right behind the MGM Grand, you’ll find Topgolf. Open from early mornings until 2am, it keeps both kids and adults busy and entertained, no matter the time of day. If you’re looking to catch a show in the late hours, places like Absinthe at Ceasars Palace offer performing arts shows for ticket holders looking for an alternative way to spend their night.

A 24-hour town

Many people frequently refer to Las Vegas as a city that never sleeps. Much like New York, the city is a 24-hour town that is always buzzing with activity, either on the Las Vegas Strip or downtown. Whether it’s food, gambling, or toiletries, you can find it all on the Strip, and with everything always available, visitors can keep the party going until morning.

Experiencing Fremont Street

Fremont Street is the second-most recognizable street in Las Vegas and shows a different side of the city. The two miles (3.2 kilometers) that cut through downtown Las Vegas have changed throughout the years, from casino closures to the addition of the famous 90-foot (27.4-meter) canopy in 1994. The Fremont Street Experience draws crowds on a nightly basis; the live entertainers, musicians and the character models that populate the street are an added bonus.

Fremont Street will show you a different side to Las Vegas

Emerging culture

Downtown Las Vegas has enjoyed a cultural rebirth in recent years, and it shows no signs of slowing down. The Arts District is a developing neighborhood within the area, with locally owned galleries, cafés, and restaurants filling the storefronts. First Friday gives space to local artists, musicians, and entertainers to showcase their work, making downtown a haven for the creative community.

Festivals and conventions

Part of the tourism industry in Las Vegas is dependent upon the number of festivals and conventions that take place throughout the year. Electric Daisy Carnival, iHeartRADIO, and Life is Beautiful draw thousands to the Las Vegas Valley every year, in addition to MAGIC and Mr. Olympia. If you happen to be visiting when a festival is taking place, why not attend?

Nick Jonas performs onstage at the iHeartRadio Music Festival at the Las Vegas Village

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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15 Reasons Why Las Vegas Is Worth Visiting

Are you wondering if Las Vegas should be on your bucket list?

This unique and interesting city is full of energy and excitement but might not be for everyone.

Located within the state of Nevada, it is known around the world for its casinos, hotels, and entertainment venues, which draw millions of visitors each year. However, there is much more to this city than meets the eye.

Founded in 1905, Las Vegas was originally a small desert town. However, it began to grow rapidly in the mid-20th century, after the construction of the Hoover Dam and the legalization of gambling.

Today, Las Vegas is one of the most populated cities in the United States, with a population of over 600 thousand. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Las Vegas is also home to a large number of conventions and events. The city’s location makes it a popular choice for these events because it is easy to get to from anywhere in the country.

In this post, you will read about all the reasons why Las Vegas is so worth visiting.

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How to get to Las Vegas

There are a few different ways to get to Las Vegas.

The most popular way is to fly into McCarran International Airport, which is located just a few miles from the Strip. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive into town. I

f you’re driving, you’ll need to take Highway 15, which connects Las Vegas to Los Angeles.

Is Las Vegas worth visiting?

There’s no question that Las Vegas is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. But is it really worth visiting?

If you’re looking for a place to gamble, see shows, eat fantastic food and enjoy the nightlife, then Las Vegas is definitely worth visiting.

15 Wonderful reasons to visit Las Vegas

Here are, without further ado, 13 reasons to visit Las Vegas.

The Strip is so cool

The most famous street in Las Vegas, the 4.2-mile long Strip is home to some of the city’s most iconic hotels and casinos.

Strolling up and down the Strip is a must-do for any first-time visitor.

The nightlife is unbeatable, and there’s always something going on

The nightlife is definitely one of the best things about Las Vegas. There are so many different bars, nightclubs and lounges to see in the city!

There are world-class restaurants to satisfy any palate

Las Vegas is home to some of the best restaurants in the world.

If you’re a foodie, be sure to check out some of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Twist by Pierre Gagnaire, Restaurant Guy Savoy, or Joël Robuchon.

It is so close to the Grand Canyon

One of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas is to the Grand Canyon.

Just a short drive away, it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is definitely worth visiting.

Read: Las Vegas To Grand Canyon (Tips + Itinerary)

The hotels are luxurious and offer top-notch amenities

From the Bellagio to the Wynn, Las Vegas is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. If you’re looking for a 5-star experience, you’ll definitely find it here.

These hotels offer top-notch amenities, such as world-class spas, gourmet restaurants, and beautiful pools.

You can gamble at some of the best casinos in the world

Even if you have never gambled before, Las Vegas is such a fun place to do it!

In the casinos, you can try all the imaginable games like blackjack, baccarat, poker, 2, bingo, and so much more.

It’s a great place for shopping – from high-end boutiques to outlet malls

Las Vegas is a shopper’s paradise. I

n addition to the many high-end stores, there are also plenty of outlet malls where you can find great deals on designer brands.

The natural beauty of the area is stunning, especially Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is just a short drive from Las Vegas and is absolutely stunning. Its red rock formations and desert landscapes are definitely worth exploring.

Great weather

If you’re looking for a place to escape the cold weather, Las Vegas is the perfect place. With more than 300 sunny days per year, you’re sure to get your fill of Vitamin D.

Plus, the desert climate means that you can enjoy all the outdoor activities the city has to offer.

There are amazing shows every night

As mentioned before, Las Vegas is home to dozens of world-class shows. Whether you’re looking for a musical, a comedy act, or something else, you can find it here.

Some popular shows include Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group, and Absinthe.

You can check the city’s event schedule here .

It is a great destination for a trip with friends

Vegas is the ultimate destination for a group trip with friends. Whether you’re looking to hit the clubs or take in a show, you’ll have a great time.

Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, from gambling to shopping to hiking.

Enjoy people-watching at its best

Vegas, for obvious reasons, attracts quite a unique crowd. People-watching is definitely one of the most fun things to do in the city.

It can be done on a budget

Vegas doesn’t have to be expensive as many people think.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the city on a budget. There are many free shows and attractions, such as the Bellagio Fountain Show and the Mirage Volcano, and it’s even possible to get free entrance to nightclubs by talking to a promoter.

It is one of the most unique cities in the world!

Las Vegas is truly unlike any other city in the world. From the extravagant hotels to the world-class restaurants to the vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Vegas.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to add Las Vegas to your list of places to visit.

Finding a place to stay in Las Vegas

When planning a trip to Vegas, choosing a hotel can be extremely hard because there are SO many amazing options. However, we’ve narrowed it down to a few of our favorites.

The Bellagio
The Palazzo at the Venetian
Caesars Palace
Paris Las Vegas

These are just a few of the incredible hotels you’ll find in Las Vegas. Personally, I stayed at the Paris Las Vegas and really enjoyed it.

No matter which one you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable stay.

Best time to travel to Las Vegas

If you’re looking to escape the cold weather and enjoy some sunny skies, there’s no better place to travel than Las Vegas.

The city is known for its hot temperatures and dry desert climate, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a respite from the winter blues.

If you’re looking for warm weather and pool time, the best time to travel to Las Vegas is from April to June. However, be aware that prices will be higher during this time as it is peak tourist season.

If you’re looking for cooler weather and smaller crowds, the best time to travel to Las Vegas is from October to December.

How to get around Las Vegas

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, knowing what sort of transportation to use is very important. The good news is that there are plenty of options for getting around the city.

If you’re staying on the Strip, the best way to get around is by walking. The Strip is well-lit and pedestrian-friendly, and you’ll be able to take in all the sights and sounds of Las Vegas as you stroll from one casino to another.

If you’re not staying on the Strip, you can still get around easily by taking advantage of the city’s extensive public transportation system. The Las Vegas Monorail runs along the length of the Strip, and there are also buses and taxis available.

Best tours to take on your trip

Going on a tour is a fantastic way of seeing a whole new side of Vegas or even going on day trips to incredible places nearby, such as the Grand Canyon.

Here are the best tours to take in Las Vegas:

Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with Optional VIP Transportation

See the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding region during this nighttime helicopter flight.

Soar over this famous stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard with an exclusive sightseeing tour of Sin City’s downtown skyline and beyond, including the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the Fremont Street Experience. Your flight covers approximately 20 miles and includes a celebratory glass of sparkling wine.

Half-Day Mojave Desert ATV Tour from Las Vegas

Experience an adrenaline-packed adventure in the desert just outside of Las Vegas.

Your professional guide will pick you up from a centralized meeting point on the Las Vegas Strip and drive you out to the desert, where you’ll get geared up for your 1.5-hour motorized ATV tour through the Mojave Desert.

After, your tour guide will drive you back to Las Vegas with fun-filled memories.

Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop with Optional Skywalk

This Grand Canyon day tour has it all.

Avoid the crowds at the Canyon as this tour picks up from select hotels in a modern luxury bus with restrooms on board, giving you more time to enjoy your destination!

En route to the West Rim and exclusive to this particular tour, you’ll enjoy a hot, sit-down breakfast at a restaurant. This tour also includes a bonus stop at the Hoover Dam Memorial Bridge, where you can capture incredible photos of the Dam!

Continuing onto the Grand Canyon, your tour guide will tell you all about the Canyon and the Hualapai Indians. Included is admission to the West Rim for 3 hours, VIP bus access at the Canyon (an exclusive benefit for this tour only), breakfast, and BBQ lunch on the canyon rim.

Half-Day Emerald Cove Kayak Tour

Experience the serenity of Emerald Cave, a picturesque natural attraction on the Colorado River.

This kayaking tour takes a small group max of 15 people paddling up the river with a guide. Stop for snacks and swimming along the way.

The High Roller at The LINQ Ticket

At more than 550 feet (167 meters) tall, the High Roller in Vegas isn’t your county fair Ferris wheel. See for yourself during a 30-minute revolution in one of the High Roller’s 28 air-conditioned compartments.

Choose from day or night rides to watch the landscape glimmer with hot sun or neon lights as you soar high above.

Whether Sin City is your favorite vacation spot or you’ve traveled half the world to see the Strip for the first time, this ride above the Las Vegas skyline won’t leave you disappointed.

Big Bus Las Vegas Open-Top Night Tour

As dusk falls, the city comes to life, illuminated by the dazzling neon lights Las Vegas is famous for.

Take in dancing fountains and erupting volcanoes as you travel the Infamous Las Vegas Strip. The tour leads you past casinos, wedding chapels, and historic landmarks as you enter the heart of downtown.

Choose to go on an adventure with your tour guide as you walk down Fremont Street.

During the walking tour, you will see sights such as a 61-pound golden nugget!

After a brief guided walking tour, you will be able to immerse yourself in the best that downtown has to offer: live entertainment, street artists, costumed entertainers, and of course, the world-famous Fremont Street Light and Sound show.

Fun facts about Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the most populous city in the state of Nevada.
The city’s name comes from the Spanish words “las vegas,” which means “the meadows.”
Las Vegas is known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.”
The city is home to more than 150,000 hotel rooms.
More than 41 million people visit Las Vegas each year.
Over 22,000 conventions are held in Las Vegas every year.
Las Vegas is home to over half of the 20 largest hotels in the world.

is the brunch at sandelles bellagio worth it

Las Vegas travel tips

Las Vegas has such vibrant energy – with things happening everywhere all the time – that it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed with all that information.

Here are some travel tips that will make your trip more enjoyable:

Take advantage of the free attractions

Many of the city’s hotels offer amazing fountains, gardens, and sculptures that are well worth a visit.

Walking around The Venetian, for example, was one of my favorite things to do in the city.

Staying in a fancy casino might be cheaper than you’d expect

If you’re looking to save some money on your trip, don’t rule out staying in one of the city’s luxury casinos.

They are often way cheaper than you would expect in other cities, and there are often deals and promotions that make them more affordable.

Check out happy hours specials

In Las Vegas, many bars and restaurants offer discounts on food and drinks during happy hour. If you’re looking to save some money, be sure to check out the happy hour specials.

Visit during the week

If you can, try to visit Las Vegas during the week. The city is less crowded and more affordable during this time.

Don’t overdo it

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Las Vegas and stay out all night.

However, it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks throughout the day. Otherwise, you’ll be exhausted and won’t enjoy your trip as much.

don’t gamble more than you can afford to lose

While it’s tempting to try your luck at the tables, Remember that the house always has an edge.

Have brunch at Sadelle’s

This iconic Vegas restaurant is located inside the famous Bellagio hotel. When you go, make sure to try the eggs benedict and the strawberry tall cake.

Check out the Neon Museum

This museum is dedicated to preserving the city’s rich history and features some of the most iconic signs from Las Vegas’ past.

Wrap-up: Is Las Vegas worth visiting?

Las Vegas is truly a unique city, and there’s no place quite like it in the world.

Personally, I am not a huge party person, but I still believe it’s one of those places everyone should go at least once in their life.

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17 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas

By Andrea Bennett

One piece of advice for how best to experience Las Vegas? Simply surrender to its wackiness. As you no doubt know, it's not an ordinary city but a three-mile-long fun zone whose activities are among the wildest in the world. And increasingly, there’s no longer a reason to separate “Strip” from “Off-Strip” activities, as the entire stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard is packed with new things to try: Use a supermarket walk-in cooler as a portal to step into another dimension, drink moonshine in the basement of the city’s first courthouse, and sing along with a giant animatronic tropical bird to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.” You’re not, of course, limited to the city’s out-there experiences: Phenomenal collections of public art, some of the best retail in the world, and awe-inspiring views await, too. Read on for our editors’ picks of the best things to do in Las Vegas.

Read our complete Las Vegas travel guide here .

Neon Museum Arrow

The Neon Museum originated as the "neon boneyard," a fenced-in yard where many of the Strip's neon signs were stored after being removed from casinos that were either renovated or imploded. About 120 signs, mostly made by the YESCO corporation from the 1950s-80s, lie in the "boneyard" adjacent to the museum. On a guided tour, visitors can learn about the trends in sign design and technology, which played a huge part in Vegas history. The museum also houses the translocated lobby of La Concha, an old motel, which was saved from demolition and now serves as the visitors' center. If you've had enough of the casinos and bars, make this spot a priority on your itinerary.

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Master Classes at Wynn Las Vegas Arrow

You'll want to reserve well in advance for Wynn's popular Master Class series. Each experience is different; for instance, you might meet with Mizumi executive chef Min Kim to learn how to make sushi or executive pastry chef Michael Outlaw to execute some of his incredible desserts. These chefs and sommeliers (for instance, Wynn's executive director of wine, Brian Weitzman, takes guests on an educational romp through champagne, cava, and prosecco) are the top experts in their fields. They already have their own followings around Las Vegas, and repeat guests who come specifically to see them. Mizumi chef Kim spent five years as an apprentice learning how to master sushi rice-making alone, so you're guaranteed that you're dealing directly with a culinary brain trust here. The offerings change quarterly, and each class can only accommodate a limited number of attendees, so it definitely feels special.

CityCenter Art gallery street outdoors las vegas

Aria Fine Art Collection Arrow

People who tour the 21 public art sites around the CityCenter campus are generally committed art aficionados. While everyone else is gambling, partying, or shopping, visitors to the Aria Fine Art Collection get to take in a fabulous outdoor gallery housing works by top contemporary artists. Best of all, it's a free, self-directed walk, so the tour lasts as long as you want it to. A visit is ideal for those who want to experience the cultural side of Las Vegas that many people don't bother to seek out. That cultural side also comes with a complete tour of CityCenter, which includes Aria , Veer Towers, Crystals at CityCenter, and Vdara .

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AREA15 Arrow

Area 15 is a massive entertainment zone just across I-15 from The Strip. When you enter the parking lot, it looks like a warehouse surrounded by large pieces of public art. Inside, it's a wacky alternate universe (containing additional alternate universes), circled overhead by an operating zip-line you can opt to fly around on. Entry is free to Area 15 before 10pm, although it's best to reserve an entry pass online, and after 10pm it turns into a 21+ zone. The main experience here is Omega Mart, the supermarket by Meow Wolf , which creates immersive art installations and produces music festivals. You'll enter what appears to be a supermarket (normal!) which is stocked with items like "emergency clams" and "corn PM" (not normal!). You'll open the door of a walk-in beverage cooler and enter a warped Narnia situation where you have to solve a mystery (you can opt out and wander if you like) to pass through.

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Mob Museum Arrow

This Downtown Las Vegas museum showcases the history of organized crime in the United States. The building is housed in the 1933 U.S. Post Office and Courthouse that held some of the most important and defining trials in the world of organized crime–including the famous Kefauver hearings. Visitors can walk the same halls as federal investigators, informants, and mobsters once did as they wander the collection, which includes weapons, memorabilia from law enforcement and crime bosses, films from court hearings, and even part of a wall from the famous St. Valentine's Day Massacre (complete with bullet holes and blood stains).

Seven Magic Mountains Arrow

This large-scale public work can be seen by anyone arriving (or leaving) Las Vegas via I-15, 10 miles south of the Strip. The massive, 30-foot-high neon-painted limestone totems cut an incredible picture against the desert: the work looks like neon ice cream cones rising from the desert floor, but no, it's not part of the Neon Museum; it's an awe-inspiring installation, for sure, but in an otherworldly way. The most dedicated fans of the landmark these days have been Instagram influencers, but it will appeal to art appreciators of all stripes. If nothing else, it will help reinforce the fact that there's a tremendous amount of barren, beautiful desert beyond the Strip. The work has been so popular that the Nevada Museum of Art, which commissioned the piece along with New York’s Art Production Fund, is planning to restore it and display it for at least another five years (it opened in 2016 and had been scheduled to be dismantled in 2021).

The Shops at Crystals Arrow

It feels wrong to call Crystals a mall, even though that's technically what it is, a short walk from the Waldorf Astoria . It's an art-filled retail district on the Las Vegas Strip with the world's largest luxury brands, from Tom Ford to Bulgari, Gucci to Harry Winston. It's often the first place where limited edition or exclusive release products will drop. Even the stores themselves are extremely special: At Stella McCartney, you'll find a life-sized, 8,000-Swarovski-crystal chandelier replica of her mother's horse, Lucky, which once hung in Belsay Castle. And at Tiffany & Co., you can go shopping and then pop the question on their proposal balcony (how convenient).

The Chandelier Arrow

You know you've landed in Las Vegas when you step into a three-floor lounge housed in a two-million crystal chandelier. Each floor has its own vibe, but our favorite might be the second, inside the chandelier, where the bartenders (who might be more accurately called artists) concoct magic from a long list of foams, tinctures, purees, garnishes, and hard-to-find spirits. Join the crowd of enthusiastic partygoers here who are either on their way to or from one of the restaurants in The Cosmopolitan , or heading to Marquee Nightclub , and be ready to throw down some cash.

Boulevard Pool, Cosmopolitan Arrow

The Cosmopolitan has three pool areas that are among Vegas' best, and Boulevard Pool, exclusively for hotel guests, is the largest. The multi-level pool has unobstructed fourth-story views of The Strip, along with cabanas, daybeds, bars, and poolside noshes. The public space is, in normal times, programmed to the hilt, offering fun brunches, evening film screenings, and even concerts that transform the pool deck into a raucous venue.

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Allegiant Stadium Arrow

The city’s Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders, was completed in 2020, and its hulking presence (locals call it the Death Star) is still something of a novelty on the Strip. This $2 billion stadium is as high-tech as they come, and looms over the Strip in an impressive, if somewhat ominous way. This stadium has a seating capacity of 65,000, with 127 private suites, 8,000 club seats, and all sorts of high-tech features like cashless concession stands, a 95-foot-high torch with sliding lanai doors behind it that open to the Las Vegas Strip, and even sensory pods for people who need to get away from the excitement. The stadium now hosts awards shows (the American Country Music Awards), massive concerts, boxing, and even college basketball in addition to its starring football lineup. Its biggest recent news: Allegiant Stadium has been chosen to host Super Bowl LVIII in 2024.

Wynn Golf Club Arrow

The gorgeous golf course at Wynn Las Vegas is one of the industry's landmarks. Although it almost made the chopping block at the hand of Steve Wynn, before he left the resort, it was revived by current leadership and has been redesigned by Tom Fazio and his son, Logan, who reinvented all 18 holes. The course has also been reconfigured to take even better advantage of the showpiece: the 35-foot-high, 100-foot-wide waterfall. A number of rooms and suites—plus the resort's Fairway Villas—have spectacular views over the lush, green space.

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Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Arrow

The airy central conservatory, which opens up right as you enter Bellagio , was inspired by the verdigris framework of Art Nouveau conservatories of Paris . Despite the fact that Las Vegas sits smack in the middle of the Mojave Desert, you can see the changing seasons in all their glory here as the garden transforms five times per year with fresh flowers; towering animatronic butterflies and birds; burbling fountains and bobbing lanterns. Each of its seasonal “theatrical presentations” of the elements is totally new. You'll never see the same things twice. And each is more transporting than the last. It's free, requires no effort to navigate (unless you're trying to elbow your way through all the smartphone-wielding selfie-takers). Locals love it as much as tourists, and it's one of the top free attractions in the city.

High Roller Observation wheel yoga Las Vegas Views

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The High Roller is the highest observation wheel in the world—higher than the London Eye or the Singapore Flyer . You’ll simply board your glass-domed pod and rise on a slow revolution some 550 feet above The Strip. This being Vegas, there’s a bar before you get on and another one inside, if you book an open-bar experience. If you need to allay your guilt for taking the kids out of school to go to Vegas, you can book the S.T.E.M. family field trip guide, which teaches you—and the kids—about its architectural design and technology. No matter what kind of ride you book, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes.

Bellagio fountains Performance Las Vegas

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Standing on the sidewalk of congested Las Vegas Boulevard in 115-degree heat may seem like a bad idea, but once the music begins and the Bellagio Hotel and Casino fountains start shooting into the air, all that noise and commotion fade away. More than 1,000 water fountains are positioned within Lake Bellagio, and each of them “dances” in step with the song (be it a pop, Broadway, classical, or rock music hit). The famous fountains come from the same designers that created the Dubai Fountain , the largest performing fountain in the world.

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Only in Vegas does a massive, sprawling entertainment complex with multiple bars, a high-tech driving range, and a lounge with games count as parkland. But that's TopGolf. It even has a pool on the third floor of its flagship location, complete with a 28-food HD video wall, bars, cabanas, and access to the hitting bays. The good news is that it's as interactive (or not) as you make it. Golf, hang out, come here for dinner, or just lounge around with your friends.

Lake of dreams Wynn Show stage Performance Las Vegas

Lake of Dreams, Wynn Las Vegas Arrow

When Steve Wynn bought the old Desert Inn to turn it into Wynn, he built a 130-foot mountain that he covered with pine trees (salvaged from the Desert Inn's golf course). Why? He didn't want his guests to look out the window and see the spaceship-shaped Fashion Show Mall across Las Vegas Boulevard. Since its opening in 2005, the waterfall at the Lake of Dreams has functioned as a daytime oasis, and a screen at night, on which you can see surreal performance videos, an animatronic frog with the voice of Garth Brooks (popularly known as "Wynnie"), and a number of other mini-shows that rotate from sundown every half hour until 11:30 pm. But the show was ripe for a reno, so in September 2020, master puppeteer Michael Curry reenvisioned the show. Now, a trio of fabulous animatronic “Lady Birds,” who borrow their features from the wildest and most colorful of tropical birds Curry could dream up, perform atop the 45-foot-high waterfall. If you have kids, you MUST bring them.

Street scene at the entrance to Fremont Street East District an area known for shopping dining and beautiful neon signs...

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For years, this area of Downtown Las Vegas was a motley collection of antiques stores, galleries, and work spaces. Originally named "18b" after the number of blocks that first comprised the district, the Downtown Arts District has now spread far beyond its original parameters. It has now coalesced into a real district around West Charleston—sandwiched between the excesses of The Strip and Fremont Street to the north. The businesses of the Arts District have pulled together to form cooperative events that are truly incredible. Some have Vegas Strip-level production values, and some are still homespun and crazy, and that's the charm of this area. First Friday (the evening art, craft, and music event around Charleston and Main Streets on the first Friday of each month) has long been a local institution; but now there's a Preview Thursday (which attracts serious art buyers), Ninja Karaoke (in the Sumo Room, Kabuki Room, and Little Tokyo), and even theater at the Vegas Theatre Company.

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Is LAS VEGAS worth visiting? Reasons to visit Vegas

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: September 13, 2023

Is LAS VEGAS worth visiting? Reasons to visit Vegas

Vegas is known for its gambling but is Las Vegas worth visiting? We share the reasons to visit Vegas, so you can decide if it’s the right place for you.

Las Vegas, aka Sin City, aka The Entertainment Capital of the World – whatever moniker you give her, there’s no denying that Vegas is the jewel of the Nevada Desert. The city is also a bucket list destination for many travelers worldwide, thanks to its world-class gaming, luxury resorts, and dynamic nightlife.

Las Vegas is one of those cities that has something to appeal to everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo, hitting the Strip with your closest friends , enjoying a romantic getaway, or even taking a business trip, a vacation in this vibrant city will leave you with some truly unforgettable memories.

Vegas is truly a destination for all types of travelers, even those on a tight budget.

Just make sure to read up on these things NOT to do in Las Vegas before your trip!

Fascinating Facts about Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known the world over for its extravagant take on entertainment and nightlife, but there’s a lot more to this city than first meets the eye. Before we dive into our reasons for visiting Las Vegas, here are some fascinating facts about this fascinating city:

Vegas is the world’s brightest city – as seen from space, the bright lights of Las Vegas can be seen from over 100 miles away. It’s even been estimated that around 15,000 miles of neon tubing are used in the city’s signage.
The Las Vegas Strip isn’t in Las Vegas – the home of the most iconic casinos and hotel resorts in North America, the Las Vegas Strip, isn’t actually located within the city limits. Instead, it’s located in an unincorporated area called Paradise, situated just outside the city.
Home to the Tallest Observation Tower in America – The Stratosphere Tower (now known as The Strat), which stands at a whopping 1,149 feet tall, is currently the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States. Visitors can take a ride on the tower’s thrill rides, including the Big Shot, which shoots riders straight up into the air at 45 mph.
The Vegas Flag – Las Vegas city has an official flag, which features a red background with two diagonal white stripes and a depiction of the iconic ‘Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas’ sign in the center. The flag was designed in 1984 by local graphic designer Robert R. “Bob” Smith and was adopted by the city council in 2001.

Why is Las Vegas worth visiting?

Las Vegas is affordable

Las Vegas is a highly affordable vacation destination that offers unbeatable value for money. Not only are travel expenses like airfare relatively low, but you can also get some great deals on accommodation in the city, such as the opportunity to stay in luxury hotel rooms for just a fraction of what they would cost in other US cities.

The city also boasts an array of dining options to suit all budgets and tastes, so you won’t dip into your spending budget too much while eating out. There are even several free shuttle services that you can take advantage of during your stay.

Vegas is full of luxury

Of course, if you do have the budget to splash out on a dream vacation, Las Vegas is the destination for you! Vegas is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and casino resorts. The city’s hotels offer everything from five-star dining options to world-class spas and pools. You can even stay in hotels that are replicas of famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower.

Not only that but some of the world’s most expensive suites are located here, like the $100,000-a-night Empathy Suite at Palms Casino Resort .

It’s a Gamer’s Paradise

Las Vegas’s casinos are as impressive as its hotels, making it a gamer’s paradise. Casinos like the Bellagio and Caesars Palace feature some of the largest and most elaborate gaming floors in the world. It’s no wonder that major events like the World Series of Poker take place here.

Although Sin City’s casinos are a favorite with global high rollers, they’re open to people of all experience levels – even those who’ve never set foot inside a casino before. Of course, you’ll need to adhere to any dress codes and ensure that you follow the rules set by each casino, but you can participate in as many or few games of the likes of blackjack, poker, or roulette as you like.

If you are going to hit the roulette tables and you’ve never played this iconic game before, developing an understanding of the fundamentals of the game, such as how many numbers are on the wheel and what the most common bets are, will serve you well. Alternatively, you may just want to try your skills at the slot machines or simply enjoy the atmosphere in these grand, opulent gaming palaces.

The Las Vegas art scene

The art scene in Las Vegas is thriving, with a diverse range of artists and styles represented throughout the city. Whilst it is known for the neon-drenched casinos and hotels of the Strip, there happens to be a growing appreciation for contemporary art and street art in Las Vegas.

The city is home to several art galleries, such as the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which features rotating exhibits of world-class artwork from some of the world’s most famous artists. The Contemporary Arts Center is another popular destination for art lovers, with a focus on modern and contemporary art and performance.

In recent years, the street art scene in Las Vegas has also gained attention, with many local and international artists creating murals and installations throughout the city. The Life is Beautiful festival, held annually in downtown Las Vegas, features large-scale murals and installations that transform the city’s urban landscape.

In addition to traditional art forms, Las Vegas also has a growing diverse community of performers and entertainers, with many shows featuring elements of performance art and immersive theater. The city’s rich and dynamic art scene is a reflection of its larger-than-life personality and is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

You can learn in Vegas too!

Ok, so Las Vegas may not be a hallowed center of learning featuring streets lined with prestigious museums and institutions, but it’s highly enlightening and educational in its own idiosyncratic way.

Las Vegas has a vibrant museum culture that reflects the city’s eclectic personality and diverse interests. The museums in Las Vegas cover a wide range of topics, from the city’s history and its ties to the mafia, to the art and the culture of the region.

A must-visit museum in Las Vegas is the Neon Museum , which houses an impressive collection of vintage neon signs from the city’s past. The museum offers guided tours that provide insight into the history of Las Vegas and the role that neon signage played in the city’s development.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for something new and interesting to explore, Las Vegas’s museums offer a unique and exciting way to experience the city.

Las Vegas has plenty of hotels to choose from, whether you want to stay on the strip or further afield. Many of the hotels along the strip are themed and fun, offering casinos, pools, spas and restaurants. We personally love the Cosmopolitan and the Flamingo hotels but the Bellagio and The Venetian have incredible theming and are unique hotels in the US while the Luxor and New York New York hotels offer great deals.

For first-time visitors, you may be shocked to know that Vegas is actually more affordable than you may think. With so many hotel rooms to fill, rates can be lower than many other top destinations in the US, especially on weekdays and during the hot summer.

Also, because of the competition, hotel buffets, restaurants, and even attractions, are priced fairly, in order to attract visitors.

On top of that, there are plenty of free things to do in Vegas, like the Bellagio Fountain or The Mirage volcano.

The gambling

Of course, we can’t talk about Las Vegas without talking about gambling. There are casinos everywhere in Vegas with many offering electronic roulette and table games, ideal for newbies. Head to Fremont Street for low stakes or visit the luxury hotel casinos for a high-end experience.

The shopping

Most casinos have shops attached to them but it’s best to avoid these if possible. Instead, get some great deals at the Las Vegas Premium Outlets and the Fashion Outlets, both full of designer brands offering huge discounts.

Las Vegas is the place to go for all types of food and all budgets. You can certainly get budget-friendly options from the many chains along the strip but we recommend enjoying at least one of the best buffets in Vegas . There are plenty of celebrity restaurants and 5-star options along the strip too, from Guy Savoy’s popular restaurant in Caesars Palace to Gordon Ramsay’s many restaurants for all tastes and budgets.

The attractions

There is so much to see and do in Vegas, you will never be bored, even if you aren’t a gambler. Head to the many museums in the area, like the Neon Museum or the Mob Museum, walk along Fremont Street, take a ride on the High Roller.

Explore the Bellagio Conservatory, take a helicopter tour from above, visit Madame Tussauds, and explore the whole strip on the Hop-on, Hop-off Big Bus Tour. Many of these attractions are included on the Go City Las Vegas pass, we will leave the link in the description below.

The nightlife

Las Vegas can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Spend evenings hopping between the casinos and enjoy free drinks as you gamble at most spots around the strip but also check out the restaurants and bars in the area too.

Dance the night away at one of the nightclubs, see Vegas lit up from above from either The Strat, the Eiffel Tower, or the High Roller, and spend an evening seeing one of the best shows in Vegas too, we will talk about that next.

There are so many shows to choose from whilst in Las Vegas. Cirque De Soleil’s shows are truly spectacular, with a variety to choose from in Vegas; we personally love the show LOVE, a performance accompanied by The Beatles music.

There are some great magic shows to be enjoyed here, including David Copperfield, whilst hen and stag parties have plenty of adult shows to choose from. There are comedy shows that can be found here too, as well as residencies to check out.

At the time of recording this, Las Vegas residencies include Adele, Carrie Underwood and Maroon 5, with U2 joining this list shortly in the impressive new MSG Sphere.

The day trips

Escape the bright lights at least once to enjoy one of the many day trips available from Las Vegas. The Grand Canyon is a popular option, with plenty of day tours available, we will leave the links below, but you can also visit Bryce Canyon, Death Valley, Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon, and the Seven Magic Mountains.

Things to know before you go to Las Vegas

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This Nevada city offers glitz, glamour, thrills, and more.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Call it cliché, but we believe Las Vegas has something for everyone. With entertainment options ranging from celebrity chef-helmed restaurants and enticing casinos to thrill rides, professional sports, and the great outdoors, we'd bet big money that Las Vegas has what you're looking for. To create a thorough list of things to do in the Nevada city, we enlisted several Las Vegas experts, including the chef concierge for Wynn Las Vegas , Angelica Miozza; comic performer Colin Cahill, who plays Blue Jackson in Spiegelworld’s Atomic Saloon Show at the Venetian; and long-time resident and vice president at Kirvin Doak Communications , Natalie Mounier.

Here are 31 of the best things to do in Las Vegas.

Related : Travel + Leisure 's Guide to Las Vegas

Sway to the music at the Bellagio fountain show.

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This expansive fountain show occurs multiple times a day, every day of the year; check the schedule once you arrive in town to make sure you catch it. The romantic spectacle is free, and onlookers line the sidewalk, mesmerized by the beauty of the dancing fountains and the music that plays along with the show.

Observe the Las Vegas Strip from above.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

To enjoy panoramic views of the city, hop on High Roller , the largest observation wheel in North America. You’ll ride in one of 28 spacious air-conditioned cabins for 30 minutes, at one point reaching 550 feet above the Strip. Cabins hold up to 40 guests, so grab some friends (and a cocktail or two) for the ride. Note that glass and coolers are not permitted.

Take a walk under the sea.

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At Shark Reef Aquarium , you can walk through an underwater glass tunnel as more than 2,000 sea creatures swim around you. The Mandalay Bay attraction includes gracefully floating jellyfish, friendly sea turtles, and sharks gliding through a shipwreck. For an additional fee, you can book an early-entry guided tour if you'd like to feed a stingray.

Go skydiving indoors.

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Travelers can experience skydiving without the airplane on the exhilarating Vegas Indoor Skydiving attraction. You can fly on your own (even kids can try it, so long as they're 40 pounds or more), or get a group of six to 10 friends or family members for a 20-minute party with private training and your own block of time in the wind tunnel.

Play around at Topgolf.

Michael Baxter, Baxter Imaging/TopgGolf

Whether or not you're an avid golfer, this is a fun venue to spend a couple of hours, or more. Topgolf Las Vegas offers climate-controlled hitting bays, plus music, HDTVs, and a pool (must be 21 and over) with cabanas. This is a favorite spot for the Wynn’s Angelica Miozza, who comes to test her golf swing. There's also a sports bar, restaurant, and complimentary golf clubs.

Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or go-cart.

Courtesy of Exotics Racing

At Exotics Racing , driving is extremely exciting, whether you choose a supercar, go-kart, or off-road experience. Steer an exotic car around a racetrack for the thrill of it, or have fun racing a go-kart on an outdoor track. You can even choose a specially built Baja race truck for the ultimate off-road experience.

Stroll through an indoor garden.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Visitors are dazzled by the intricate designs, colors, and beauty of the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens . Each season, the 14,000-square-foot garden is transformed with floral displays, living plants, and water features. In addition to unique designs for each season, a special Lunar New Year garden is created each year.

Ride a gondola and stroll through St. Mark’s Square.

At the Venetian Resort , a gondola ride takes you through a replica of Venice, complete with the Rialto Bridge, a sparkling Grand Canal, and a serenade by your gondolier. Once off your boat, browse the upscale Grand Canal Shoppes, enjoy the street performers, or grab a gelato while you take in the atmosphere of "Italy."

Catch the light show on downtown's Fremont Street.

The largest video screen in the world is suspended 90 feet above Fremont Street for this dazzling free light show with concert-quality sound. The show begins every hour between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m., every day. While you’re in the downtown area, check out the SlotZilla zip line, which has an option to fly over the street like a superhero, landing at the historic Golden Gate Hotel and Casino.

Experience Illuminarium.

Courtesy of Illuminarium

At Illuminarium Las Vegas , 4K laser projection, 3D audio, and special effects create immersive experiences not to be missed. Travel to outer space via images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope, or to the African savanna, where incredible animals roam. Check the website for what experiences are available during your Las Vegas visit.

Tee off at the only casino resort golf course on the Las Vegas Strip.

Courtesy of Wynn Las Vegas

Enjoy the gorgeous surroundings of the 18-hole championship course at the Wynn Golf Club . The lush landscape was designed by legendary architect Tom Fazio, who partnered with his son Logan to revisit and enhance his original work. Mature trees, lakes, and streams add both beauty and challenge to the course.

Take a Connoisseur Series class at Wynn Las Vegas.

“For those who love immersive experiences, I recommend attending one of Wynn’s master classes , which provide an intimate experience with the resort’s world-class chefs and industry experts,” Angelica Miozza told T+L. “Some of my favorites include learning how to bake baguettes alongside our master baker, filling dumplings with a master dim sum chef, and creating remarkable floral arrangements with the head of horticulture.”

Take a side trip to Red Rock Canyon.

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About 17 miles west of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers miles of hiking trails. The preserve is also a great place for rock climbing, mountain biking, picnicking, and horseback riding, all surrounded by gorgeous scenery. A 13-mile scenic drive leads to sandstone hills, canyons, and parking areas, where visitors can explore the area's natural and cultural history.

Watch a professional sports game.

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Depending on the season, visitors can see the WNBA 2023 champions Las Vegas Aces , the Las Vegas Lights FC soccer team, Las Vegas Raiders football, or the Vegas Golden Knights NHL team. “In recent years, Las Vegas has been building its credibility as a sports destination,” Miozza said.

Get a Las Vegas history lesson at the Mob Museum.

The Mob Museum is located downtown in the city’s former federal courthouse. Its interactive exhibits highlight notorious gangsters like Al Capone and Bugsy Siegel and famous FBI agents, including J. Edgar Hoover and Eliot Ness. After your mob history lesson, visit the onsite Prohibition-era-styled speakeasy for a cocktail.

Experience Vegas deep into the night.

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They say New York is the city that never sleeps, but Vegas doesn't seem to, either. Nightclubs and cocktail lounges abound, and there's always a themed party or DJ set to experience. The city has lots in store for LGBTQ+ travelers, too — Visit Las Vegas suggests year-round Pride events and RuPaul's Drag Rice Live as some of the options.

Score tickets to a live show.

Tomasz Rossa

Cahill called his Atomic Saloon show “one of my all-time favorite sexy circus comedy cabarets.” There’s also Cirque du Soleil’s Beatles LOVE show at The Mirage, Mystere at Treasure Island, “O” at the Bellagio, and Awakening at the Wynn. Head to Caesars Palace to see world-class talent like Adele and the newest resident headliner, Garth Brooks. And if you've got kids in tow, they can see a show , too.

Show off your skills at the Pinball Hall of Fame.

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This museum houses the world’s largest pinball machine collection, with vintage machines from the 1960s, '70s, and '80s (and beyond). The machines are all restored to like-new condition, and they’re available for visitors to enjoy — it's a pretty inexpensive way to have fun at 25 or 50 cents a play.

Watch the free show at the Lake of Dreams.

“Staged outdoors with open-air patios for viewing, the Wynn Lake of Dreams show is something guests or visitors to Las Vegas may not know about,” Miozza told T + L. “The complimentary multimedia experience blends colorful puppetry, an immersive soundtrack, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.” The show runs multiple times every night, starting at dusk.

Snap a few photos for the 'gram.

About 10 miles south of the Strip is Seven Magic Mountains , a group of neon-colored totems created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, and a very popular site with shutterbugs. Next, head downtown for a self-guided mural tour , or visit the Museum of Selfies at the LINQ Promenade. And, of course, there’s the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign — a must for every visitor.

Join an immersive show at a rum distillery.

At the Lost Spirits Distillery , guests walk through elaborate Victorian settings and sample rum while cast members perform all around them in an immersive theater experience. To extend your time here, book an elaborate 16-course tasting menu dinner, which is served in a room themed after “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea."

Dance to live tunes.

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Cahill says, “If you’re looking to scoot your boots, my favorite bands to dance to are The Bronx Wanderers and The Spazmatics, both at South Point , and Original Chaos, who you can catch at venues all over town." For more live music venue options, Visit Las Vegas has you covered .

Visit the Sphere.

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“Vegas is all about revamping the old and building the new,” Cahill says, specifically pointing to the new Sphere , a 17,500-seat structure for concerts and sporting events. With a wraparound LED display and spatial audio system, the venue provides an immersive experience that utilizes visual effects, movement sensations, intense lighting, and even scent and wind simulations.

Visit the Las Vegas Arts District.

When Cahill isn’t playing Blue Jackson in the Atomic Saloon, he enjoys spending time in the Las Vegas Arts District . Located about a mile from downtown and the Fremont Street Experience, this area features shops, restaurants, bars, coffee houses, galleries, theater, live performances, and First Friday events.

Ride FlyOver.

“My family and I love FlyOver ,” Mounier said. “It makes you feel like you’re flying over the most iconic places in the U.S., Canada, and Iceland; you’re sitting inside a spherical screen, surrounded by the most amazing views. As the film dips and turns throughout the locales, the seat moves with you, like you’re flying via helicopter. There are special effects, too — when you fly through a cloud, you feel a light mist on your face.”

Go on another adrenaline-pumping thrill ride.

Head to the Stratosphere for the Big Shot ride and the X-Scream rollercoaster, which dangles you above the Las Vegas Strip. Or, ride the Big Apple Coaster at New York New York — it speeds up to 67 miles per hour.

Shop 'til you drop in a classic Vegas shopping center.

Instead of losing money in the casino, why not exchange money for goods? Great places to do the latter include the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace, the Cosmopolitan Shops , designer shops at the Encore , MGM Grand , and more. At the Downtown Container Park, you can shop , snack , and catch a free concert in one spot.

Take a wellness break.

A spa visit makes for a relaxing and refreshing escape from the hustle of Vegas, and we recommend Caesar’s Palace Qua Baths & Spa . This venue offers three Roman baths, an Arctic Ice Room, and a range of massage and skin care services. Or head to Wynn Las Vegas, where Wynn Living Well offers massages, vitamin IV drip therapies, and other innovative treatments.

Related: 10 Best Spas in Las Vegas

Ride the Las Vegas Monorail.

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The Strip often surprises first-time Las Vegas visitors — it's not as easy to walk from one end to the other as you'd think. So, if you're trying to get from point A to point B here, consider taking the Las Vegas Monorail . It's a convenient mode of transportation that connects MGM Grand to the Sahara Hotel, with stops at Harrah’s, Caesar’s Palace, and more.

Try your luck in a Vegas casino.

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There are more than 100 casinos in Las Vegas , so no trip here would be complete without wandering through one of these dens of smoke, drinks, and slot machines. Belly up to a blackjack, poker, or craps table and try your luck, or stand back and observe someone else playing — somehow, even just watching casino action is a thrill in Las Vegas.

Plan a trip around Formula 1.

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With no fewer than 16 different ticket types, ranging from general admission ($150) through a variety of grandstands, clubs, private suites, and luxury hospitality (from $12,500), the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix (set for the weekend before Thanksgiving) aims to attract a varied crowd. All the events, from the trio of practice sessions through qualifying and the race itself, happen after the sun goes down and the neon turns on. Skip the turns and head straight for the Strip, where you'll find top speeds of 217 miles per hour — and all the action.

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Why You Should Definitely Visit Las Vegas During Your Trip To The Usa?

Ah, Las Vegas. The name alone conjures up visions of neon lights, luxurious hotels, and the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. While New York may boast about being the city that never sleeps, Las Vegas comes a close second, offering a unique blend of entertainment and glamor 24/7. If you’re on a sojourn to the U.S. of A., here’s why skipping Las Vegas is tantamount to saying “no” to a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Table of Contents

1. A Mecca for Entertainment

From Broadway-style shows to celebrity residencies, Las Vegas is a haven for world-class entertainment . With the lights dimmed and the curtain raised, the quality of performances here could make even the most hard-to-impress theater aficionado gasp.

Take for instance, Cirque du Soleil shows like “O” or “Michael Jackson ONE,” which set the benchmark for live productions. But why just stick to shows? This city is teeming with musicians, stand-up comedians, and DJs, offering a variety that caters to all tastes.

While we’re on the topic of variety, if you’re the gambling sort, make sure to check out the table games, slot machines, and even Philippines Online Casinos , where you can dip your toes into the international gaming scene from the comfort of your hotel room.

2. World-Class Culinary Delights

Don’t be surprised if you end up gaining a few pounds; Las Vegas is a foodie’s paradise. And I’m not talking about run-of-the-mill buffets. I’m talking about Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Joël Robuchon.

Don’t miss the plethora of options from around the world, including, but not limited to, classic French, modern American, and exotic Asian. The city allows you to globe-trot, gastronomically speaking.

3. Nature Beckons

Yes, you read that right. Las Vegas isn’t all concrete and glitter. A short drive from the Strip, and you’ll find yourself amidst nature’s marvels like the Grand Canyon and the Red Rock Canyon.

These stunning natural landmarks offer an array of activities like hiking, kayaking, and hot air ballooning. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring colors of the canyon walls or the silence that envelops you as you float through the air, these experiences offer the perfect detox from the hustle and bustle of the city.

4. Shop Till You Drop

Vegas has shopping experiences that range from the kitschy souvenir shops to luxury boutiques featuring haute couture. The shopping centers like The Forum Shops at Caesars or the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood offer an extensive range of brands. In case you’re interested in something more extravagant, there are also auction houses that deal with antique collectibles .

5. Casinos Galore

Ah, the pièce de résistance! No trip to Las Vegas would be complete without experiencing its world-famous casinos. Roulette, blackjack, poker—you name it, they have it.

Even if you’re not a seasoned gambler, the atmosphere alone—replete with sumptuous décor and electrifying energy—is worth the visit. And speaking of gambling, did you know that Las Vegas casinos offer some of the highest payouts in the country?

6. Get a Taste of the World in a Day

Ever wanted to explore the world but pressed for time? Las Vegas offers an encapsulated global experience. Visit “Paris” and dine beside the Eiffel Tower, then take a gondola ride in “Venice” at the Venetian. If you fancy some Egyptian history, the Luxor has you covered. Where else can you globe-trot without a passport? This melting pot of culture and architecture offers an intriguing educational experience under the guise of extravagance.

7. A Nightlife That Doesn’t Quit

The city’s nightlife is the epitome of hedonistic pleasure. Clubs like Omnia, XS, and Marquee are globally renowned and offer an experience like no other. DJs like Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki, and Tiësto regularly grace the turntables. And it’s not just about the music; these clubs often offer visual feasts with impressive lighting effects and futuristic designs. But if clubs aren’t your scene, worry not. There are countless speakeasies and lounges offering a more low-key but equally delightful evening.

8. Festivals and Events Year-Round

If you plan it right, you can attend one of the city’s famous festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival or the Life is Beautiful Festival. Not into music festivals? There’s also SEMA for car enthusiasts, or the Consumer Electronics Show for tech geeks. These events attract people from around the globe and offer a unique chance to blend entertainment with networking opportunities.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next thrill, a culture vulture yearning for artistic gratification, or a nature lover seeking a serene escape, Las Vegas has got something for everyone. So, are you ready to add a dash of ‘Vegas’ to your American voyage? I guarantee it’s a decision you won’t regret.

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36 Hours in Las Vegas

By Alex Schechter Updated April 13, 2023

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A view of a brightly lit skyline at night, with large hotels washed in colorful lights, a pink ferris wheel, a structure that looks like a hot-air balloon lit in blue and yellow neon, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower. A large fountain display sends dozens of jets of water shooting into the sky.

Las Vegas has rebranded itself in recent years. Ditching its former Sin City credo, it now aims to lure visitors with the promise of unique experiences. (The famous slogan that winked at its hedonistic reputation, “What happens here, stays here,” was subtly updated in 2020 to “What happens here, only happens here.”) Indeed, Vegas’s glut of entertainment options can lead to decision paralysis: Where else can you play 1960s pinball machines, see headliners like Adele and Bruno Mars , tuck into a 16-course underwater-themed banquet, and play poolside blackjack in the same night — all within view of the Rialto Bridge and the Eiffel Tower? The trick is knowing how to balance all the spectacle. More than ever, a well-rounded tour of Vegas requires going beyond the Strip: What you find may surprise you.

Recommendations

Red Rock Canyon , a popular hiking spot close to the city, offers a 13-mile driving loop, hiking trails and a stunning glimpse into Vegas’s ancient geology.
Chinatown , a one-stop shop for Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Malaysian and other cuisines, is spread over a two-mile stretch of West Spring Mountain Road.
Area15 is a sprawling off-Strip arts complex that is home to interactive, often-psychedelic spaces like Omega Mart , Illuminarium and Lost Spirits , a circus-inspired rum distillery.
Wakuda Lounge offers sophisticated Japanese cocktails and adjoins a high-end sushi restaurant inside the Venetian hotel.
Piero’s serves Italian-American classics like veal parm and osso buco in a polished, old-school space.
PublicUs is a downtown cafe that hums on weekends, when locals stop in for Hawaiian loco moco, Belgian waffles and seriously strong cold brew.
20,000 Leagues is an underwater-themed restaurant that serves 16 elaborate courses (with rum cocktails) in a space that resembles a Victorian-era submarine.
Easy’s , the Aria hotel’s not-so-secret speakeasy, pairs whimsical cocktails with live jazz.
11th Street Records is a destination for vinyl fans, and has a recording studio.
Fergusons Downtown houses over a dozen independent retailers who sell anything from floral arrangements to artisanal dog food in a repurposed 1940s motel.
The Magician’s Study stages intimate, 90-minute magic shows in secret locations on the Strip.
Fremont Street Experience is a slice of pure Vegas kitsch; the five-block pedestrian mall unites a row of old-time casinos like the Golden Nugget and Main Street Station .
The Punk Rock Museum is an ode to the underground genre’s five-decade history, with guided tours by distinguished punk alumni.
The Beverly Theater is a new independent cinema that screens international and arthouse films.
Guardian Angel Cathedral , an oasis of calm just off the Strip, shows the talents of Paul Revere Williams, an influential midcentury-modern architect.
NoMad Las Vegas , a hotel inside a hotel, occupies the top four floors of the Park MGM on the Strip; among its perks is a sixth-floor rooftop pool inspired by Jardin Majorelle in Morocco. Rooms from $159.
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas has all the amenities of a major Strip casino, but sits a few blocks away from the action. The playful, 70s-inspired rooms (from $70) are spread among three towers which are named Opal, Canyon, Ruby; the last overlooks Elia Beach Club, an outdoor pool hangout that doubles as a live music venue in the summer.
El Cortez Hotel and Casino , in the heart of lively Fremont Street, isn’t just the oldest continuously running casino in Vegas, it’s also one of its best deals. Rooms (from $39) are all recently renovated, though the original Spanish Colonial-style building remains gloriously unchanged since 1941.
The Las Vegas Monorail ($5 each way) connects most of the major casinos on the Strip; there are also three independently operated trams (free) that provide direct links between select casinos. Beyond the Strip, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft remain the best way to get around for those not renting a car.

A bartender wearing a black shirt with the sleeves rolled up stirs a cocktail behind a wooden bar. Behind him are illuminated shelves with many different bottles, which are lit up.

An earlier version of this article misstated a kind of fish served at Wakuda Lounge. It is kanpachi, not kampachi.

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Las Vegas Travel Guide

Courtesy of RebeccaAng | Getty Images

Why Go To Las Vegas

Sin City, America's Playground, the Entertainment Capital of the World ... all worthy names for this Nevada hot spot. Think of Vegas as a theme park rather than a city – it can awe as much as it can overwhelm, and that's part of the appeal. This is a city where inhibitions are not welcome: Every night, Las Vegas draws pleasure mongers to the brightly lit Strip like moths to a flame. While you may not want to go as far as to reenact "The Hangover," you certainly don't want to leave without experiencing a bit of "Viva Las Vegas."

Today, Las Vegas can provide any kind of vacation you can imagine. You can opt for the traditional high-roller getaway complete with all-nighters at the blackjack table or TAO Nightclub. Or you can make it all about luxury with visits to hotel spas , high-end boutiques and gourmet restaurants. Las Vegas is also a great jumping-off point for outdoor activities, such as ATV tours , hiking in Red Rock Canyon or visiting the Hoover Dam via a helicopter tour or a bus tour . You can even bring the kids along: Underage travelers will get a kick out of a Cirque du Soleil performance, the Bellagio Fountain show and the Neon Museum.

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# 1 in Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
# 2 in ARIA Resort & Casino
# 3 in Wynn Las Vegas

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# 1 in Walk the Strip
# 2 in Visit the Sphere
# 3 in Bellagio Casino and Fountains

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Las Vegas Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November. While you'll find plenty of travel deals throughout the year, the spring and fall shoulder seasons offer the most moderate weather. Sin City welcomes an influx of visitors during the winter months, especially surrounding New Year's Eve, the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day, and the sweltering summers see daytime temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. No matter when you decide to visit Vegas, try to plan a midweek trip – because this is a common weekend getaway destination, you'll find more rooms at lower rates between Tuesday and Thursday.

Las Vegas is also home to hundreds of conventions each year, which can drive up room rates. Before setting travel dates, check the city's tourism board convention schedule to find out which hotels are hosting what and when – this will help you secure a better deal at your choice hotel.

Weather in Las Vegas

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Prepare for desert weather Days in Vegas can be extremely hot, but nighttime breezes (and casinos' AC) can be pretty chilly so be sure to bring a jacket. Ladies should also consider whether their high heels will be comfortable walking up and down the Strip .

The house always wins No matter how well your winning streak is going, it's bound to come to an end at some point. Remain both optimistic and realistic.

Bring the kids While the casinos aren't kid-friendly, there are plenty of attractions (like aquariums ) that are wholesome fun for the entire family. Here are 25 top things to do in Las Vegas with kids .

Take a tour Whether it's a food tour or a sightseeing flight above the Strip , there are a variety of guided tours in Vegas perfect for when you need a break from the casino.

How to Save Money in Las Vegas

Do your research There's no shortage of online deals on flights and hotel rooms , so be diligent about making travel plans and save the spontaneity for after you've checked in.

Ditch the car Traffic on the Strip can be mind-boggling; you'll be better off relying on public transportation and your own two feet.

Cut yourself off Winning feels amazing, but there comes a point when the tables start to turn. Decide how much you're willing to spend at the casinos before you arrive in Vegas, and make sure to stop yourself before Lady Luck robs you blind.

Book an affordable hotel There are plenty of cheap hotels located downtown or slightly removed from the city center that are more cost effective than those on the Strip.

What to Eat

One thing's for sure: There's no shortage of culinary choices in Las Vegas. You'll find everything from high-end French fare to budget-friendly burgers. The celebrity chef craze hit Las Vegas by storm, with some of the world's most famous chefs – including Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse – establishing kitchens in Sin City. What's more, Las Vegas boasts more master sommeliers than Los Angeles and New York City combined. You can dine on Chinese fare at Wing Lei at the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas , indulge in Wagyu beef at Bazaar Meat by José Andrés at the Sahara or savor Italian cuisine with views of the Bellagio's fountain show at LAGO by Julian Serrano .

And while many of the big-name restaurants along the Strip come attached with high price tags, you don't need to spend a fortune to eat well here. Sin City caters to foodies of all budgets, and the city is also known as the king of the all-you-can-eat buffet, with food lines featuring everything from pizza and Chinese to crab legs and gluten-free cuisine. There's even a flagship Taco Bell restaurant that serves beer and frozen alcoholic drinks. Whatever you're craving, you're sure to find it at one of the buffets along the Strip, so come hungry. Foodie tours are another great way to try a variety of foods at a low cost.

If you're smart and exercise common sense, your stay in Las Vegas should remain safe and enjoyable. As far as safety is concerned, you should take some extra precautions when on the Strip or in a casino. Cash and alcohol run wild, often placing travelers in compromising situations. Don't overindulge in alcohol, and keep your winnings to yourself to avoid attracting unwanted attention. When on the Strip, never walk alone in the evenings, be mindful of the busy road, and follow all street signals and applicable laws. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department offers more tips on its website .

Getting Around Las Vegas

The best way to get around Las Vegas is by taxi, a ride-hailing option like Uber or Lyft, or by bus. The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) offers bus routes 24 hours a day along the Strip and downtown area, providing easy, affordable transportation. If you're based on the Strip, the Monorail provides fast transportation to many of the casinos along the Strip like the MGM Grand and Harrah's Las Vegas. If you prefer to walk, you won't have an issue finding most of Vegas' top things to do , but you should arm yourself with plenty of sunscreen and water to avoid heat stroke.

To get to and from the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), which sits about 10 minutes east of the Strip, you have a variety of options. You can hop in a taxi, use a ride-hailing service, or for a more affordable ride, use a shuttle bus or the public bus. RTC buses and shuttle bus companies offer service out of terminals one and three. Car rentals are also available at the airport (and throughout Las Vegas), but unless you're looking to take a trip to the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon , you should opt for another means of transportation. Traffic along the Strip is hectic and parking is both scarce and expensive. Plus, several of the best Las Vegas tours provide transportation from the Strip to local landmarks like the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon if you don't want to drive yourself. Helicopter tours can also be a memorable way to see these natural wonders or enjoy a bird's-eye view of the Strip's glittering night lights. ATV tours are equally unique ways to see the surrounding desert scenery.

You'll find all the Sin City action – from gambling to partying – along the Strip .

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The best things to do in Vegas right now

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

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

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

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

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Best things to do in Vegas

1. Sphere

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

2. AREA15

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

3. Bacchanal Buffet

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

4. Madame Tussauds

Attractions

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

5. Wynn Las Vegas

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

6. Cirque du Soleil

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

7. Caesars Palace

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

8. The Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena

Things to do

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

9. Hoover Dam

Walks and tours
price 1 of 4

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

10. The Fountains of Bellagio

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

11. The Venetian Las Vegas

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

12. The National Atomic Testing Museum

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

13. Las Vegas Springs Preserve

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

14. Neon Museum

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

15. Lake Las Vegas

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

16. Pinball Hall of Fame

Special interest
East Las Vegas

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

17. Dolby Live

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

18. The Mob Museum

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

19. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

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

20. Fremont Street Experience

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

21. Mandalay Bay Beach

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

22. High Roller Observation Wheel

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

23. Fremont East

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

24. The Bellagio Conservatory

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

25. Omnia

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

More great things to do in Las Vegas

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Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting? 21 Good Reasons Why You Must!!

Is Las Vegas worth visiting? If you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon or a bachelor’s trip to the ‘Sin City’ for the first time then you are bound to have this question.

Las Vegas, popularly known as the “ Entertainment and Gambling Capital of the World ,” is one of the most visited cities in the world. Vegas has long been known as the party capital of the United States, thanks to its world-class casinos, great cuisine, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife. As a result, it’s hardly surprising that so many individuals aspire to visit Las Vegas at some point in their lives.

Las Vegas is definitely worth visiting. Aside from the gambling and partying scene Vegas is recognized for, it offers a wealth of enjoyable things to do such as hiking the Grand Canyons, understanding the history of Vegas with beautiful museums, dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, and enjoying the breathtaking vistas of the Mojave Desert.

Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?

Table of Contents

Is Las Vegas worth visiting for a Family Vacation?

Yes, absolutely! Despite its reputation as the “Sin City,” Las Vegas has something for everyone, including children. From theme parks to scenic hiking trails, botanical gardens, and amazing lightshows, to gaming arcades and restaurants serving kid-friendly cuisine and sweets, Las Vegas is one of the top family holiday locations in the world.

Is Las Vegas worth visiting for a Honeymoon?

Not just for honeymoons, Las Vegas is one of the most desirable wedding venues on the planet. Vegas’ vibrant and exuberant ambiance, complete with iconic chapels, world-class hotels, bars, casinos, theme parks, fine cuisine, and outdoor adventure activities, makes it the ideal destination for an unforgettable honeymoon.

What is the average cost of a vacation to Las Vegas?

A seven-day trip to Las Vegas costs on average $1,504 for a solo traveller, $2,701 for a couple, and $5,064 for a family of four. Las Vegas hotels cost between $44 and $189 per night on average, while most vacation rentals cost between $190 and $570 per night for the entire home.

Here are 21 Good Reasons why Las Vegas is worth visiting?

Try your luck at gambling 🎲.

We can’t possibly overlook what Vegas is known for, can we? The world-famous casinos and gambling culture in Las Vegas have long been the city’s most popular attractions, regardless of what else Vegas is known for.

From the world-famous Bellagio , MGM Grand , and Caesars Palace , all of which include stunning architecture, pools, and bars, to the lesser-known Palms , Aliante , and Rampart Casinos , Vegas has no shortage of sites to test your gaming talents and enjoy the city’s thriving nightlife.

The Mesmerizing Fountains⛲ of Bellagio

Your trip to Vegas isn’t complete unless you see the breathtaking fountain show at the world-famous Bellagio Casino. The Bellagio’s iconic fountain show⛲ is considered one of the biggest attractions of the Vegas strip’s nighttime scene.

The fountain show features over 1200 geysers nestled in an eight-and-a-half-acre area in front of the resort. The way the fountains explode to music every 15 minutes gives the impression that they are swaying to music.

When viewed against the brilliant lights of the Bellagio hotel, this fountain is truly a work of art.

The Party Capital of the World🍻

Apart from gambling, one thing Vegas excels at is partying. Vegas is known as the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World ,’ and that implies crazy wild parties with brilliant party lights, live DJ music, delicious cuisines, and plenty of alcohol.

As the world’s party capital, Vegas has no shortage of locations to party all night. Because of its world-class casinos, hotels, bars, and vibrant nightclubs, the Vegas Strip is especially well-known for having the best nightlife and entertainment attractions in Vegas.

Some of the best places for party-animals in Las Vegas-

Omnia Nightclub Caesars Palace Las Vegas

There is no better place than Caesars Palace’s enormous OMNIA nightclub, where you can join the crowd and dance to DJs like Steve Aoki and Zedd under an enormous rotating chandelier.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil, which translates to “ Circus of the Sun ,” is noted for its spectacular acrobatic feats, which are done with an unparalleled level of artistry.

Cirque du Soleil’s shows are influenced by a wide range of natural and cultural influences. The “ LOVE ❤” performance, for example, (played at The Mirage) pays tribute to the iconic rock band, the Beatles; conversely, “O” (performed at the Bellagio) incorporates water into its acrobatics.

A Cirque du Soleil performance can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

Park Theater

A showroom that features some of the most popular resident artists on the Las Vegas Strip.

Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Aerosmith, and Cher have all performed at the Park Theater. The arena has a capacity of 5,200 people , and VIP seating includes specialized beverage service.

Hakkasan Nightclub

Hakkasan Nightclub is the most prestigious nightclub in Las Vegas. Enjoy world-class DJs and musicians, as well as top-tier eating and entertainment.

Wet Republic, Venus Pool Lounge Encore Beach Club

If you love to enjoy pool parties then these are the best clubs to enjoy exotic cocktails and play pool games.

Explore the history of Vegas with a tour of the Neon Museum 💡

Old neon signs and marquees from long-gone casinos are on display at this one-of-a-kind museum on Las Vegas Boulevard, which offers guided tours of the “ Boneyard .”

More than 250 pieces of historic Vegas signs are displayed on the desert floor in this 2.25-acre outdoor museum. Prepare to be amazed as the museum’s local historians recount the most amusing and outlandish stories about the history of each Neon sign on display.

Get a peek into the Gangster Era of Vegas 🤵🏻‍♂️

Las Vegas is appropriately dubbed the ‘ Sin City .’ Vegas, with its allure, vibrant culture, and money, has historically been a haven for organized criminal groups.

The Mob Museum is dedicated to educate tourists about the Gangster era and its organized crime operations from the 1960’s to the late 1980’s. It also pays tribute to FBI officers such as J. Edgar Hoover , Eliot Ness , and Harry Aslinger who worked to curb crime across the country.

Hoover Dam- A modern engineering marvel⛰

This enormous concrete engineering marvel, which has been a lifeline to Nevada, Arizona, and California since 1935, limits Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume.

The Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise , which departs from Lake Mead National Recreation Area, is one of the greatest ways to take in the stunning vistas of Lake Mead.

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Enjoy your day the ‘Fast and Furious’ Way 🏎

Vegas is not just about opulent casinos filled with gambling, food, and drink; it’s also about very fast, opulent supercars. If you’re looking to amp up the excitement and satisfy your ‘Need for Speed,’ head straight to SpeedVegas on the Las Vegas Strip.

At SpeedVegas, you may experience the rush of driving a million-dollar supercar, ranging from exotic Ferraris and Lamborghinis to American muscle cars such as the Pontiac , Camaro , and Mustang .

Get a taste of life in Venice 🛶

Have you ever desired to visit the enthralling city of Venice? The Venetian Casino and Grand Canal on the Las Vegas strip provides an outstanding and incredible taste of what it’s like to visit Venice’s lovely canal city.

Enjoy surfing in the desert 🏄🏼‍♂️

Despite the fact that Las Vegas is a landlocked city in the middle of the enormous Nevada desert, there is no shortage of sites for water sports aficionados. Planet Hollywood’s FlowRider offers a variety of water sports for both children and adults.

The incredible FlowRider wave simulator at The Scene Pool Deck on Planet Hollywood’s Rooftop generates waves high enough to surf. Everyone, from experienced surfers to amateurs, may try their skills and enjoy surfing or simply sip a fruity cocktail by the pool.

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The gorgeous Springs Preserve 🌸

Vegas is not just for gambling and partying adults; it is also a haven for children, with an abundance of enjoyable activities. If you’re searching for an escape from the neon and glitter of the Las Vegas Strip, the Springs Preserve is a fantastic place to take your children.

The Springs Preserve, often known as the “ birthplace of Las Vegas ,” is a 180-acre cultural institution dedicated to commemorating the city’s history. It features fascinating museums, galleries, and a well-preserved botanical garden brimming with native and exotic animal species.

The Springs Preserve is one of the top family attractions in Las Vegas and is well worth a visit for couples as well.

Get a birds-eye view of the Vegas Strip 🔭

If you want to see how the vibrant and bright Las Vegas strip looks from thousands of feet above the ground, go directly to the STRAT hotel. The STRAT hotel has a 1,149-foot tower , making it the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States.

With a nice cocktail???? in hand, marvel at the city’s brilliant lights and tourist-infested streets. The tower is a great family-friendly attraction because it has a restaurant, a bar, and a café that serves coffee, snacks, and ice cream.

A haven for Pinheads! 🎰

The Pinball Hall of Fame, which houses 150 coin-operated pinball machines, boasts the world’s largest collection of pinball machines . This amazing site is the result of Las Vegas’ Pinball Collectors Club’s enthusiasm for Pinball and displays some of the rarest Pinball machines ranging from old-school mechanical marvels to ’90s solid state classics and brand-new machines.

Even if you know nothing about pinball, a visit to this place will make you want one, especially if you have children.

Indulge in a rejuvenating therapeutic spa 💆🏻‍♀️

If you’re fatigued from the previous night’s partying and dancing at one of the strip’s packed nightclubs, come directly to the Spa at the Linq for a refreshing session of Himalayan salt therapy cave, which naturally soothes allergies and congestion.

Whether you’re looking for some relaxing alone time or a romantic couples massage, the Linq offers every type of tranquil therapy to aid in your recovery from whatever the ‘ Sin City ‘ threw at you the night before.

Hike the Canyon trails and Crimson cliffs 🏜

The majority of people believe that the ‘ Sin City ‘ is only ideal for gambling and partying under sparkling city lights. When you visit the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , you will be astounded.

Get married in the ‘City of Lights’ 💘

Your wedding day is one of the most momentous occasions of your life, as you exchange vows to spend the rest of your life with your love. Everybody dreams of this great day, and what better way to celebrate it than in one of the most unique and vibrant cities on the planet- “ The City of Lights “.

Vegas attracts hundreds of couples each year with its vibrant ambiance, iconic chapels, quick marriage licenses, and out-of-this-world settings.

Enjoy the epic art gallery at Downtown Las Vegas

If you are an art student or aficionado, Downtown Vegas has the city’s best outdoor art gallery. The exhibition began as a part of the ‘ Life is Beautiful Festival ,’ which brings together some of the best musicians, artists, and muralists in the United States.

This outdoor festival exhibits numerous unique art works by muralists who cover the walls with vivid and hypnotic paintings. Walking through Downtown Vegas is like strolling through an amazing art exhibition filled with massive magnificent paintings.

Visit the Insta-fame ‘Seven Magic Mountains’ ⛰️

This piece of art by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone , located south of Las Vegas, has sparked a social media craze. I’m sure you’ve seen a lot of photos of these massive colourful boulders bathed in vivid colours doing the rounds on Instagram.

Take a thrilling ride on ‘World’s Largest Observation Wheel’ 🎡

If a birds-eye view of the Vegas Strip from 1149 feet above the ground in STRAT hotels observation tower isn’t exhilarating enough for you, take a ride on the World’ Largest Observation Wheel ???? for unrivalled views of the cityscape and glittering Vegas Strip.

A single loop takes 30 minutes to complete, giving you plenty of time to take in the breathtaking sights of the ‘City of Lights.’

Spend a day as a sniper! 🎯

All adults are welcome to use the shooting range, where beginners are educated by properly qualified weapons experts. So, what are you sitting out over?

Meet the ‘AVENGERS’! at the Marvel Avengers STATION

The Marvel Avengers STATION is a paradise for kids and adults alike to spend the day amongst the life-size statues of your favourite Marvel superheroes for your kids (if you have one) and the ardent fan of the Marvel Universe in you.

Aside from the sculptures, it is a mecca for comic book fans and youngsters, with shops selling toys, comic books, accessories, and other wonderful Marvel items.

Once you step foot in the Marvel Avengers Station, you and your child will not want to leave this place.

Photograph yourself in front of the world-famous Las Vegas Sign

Finally, but perhaps most obviously, your trip to Vegas would be incomplete without posing in front of the iconic ‘ Welcome to Las Vegas ‘ signboard.

To avoid crowds, head out early in the morning to capture some incredible Instagram-worthy shots that will make your pals jealous.

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Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons to visit Bangkok!

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Why is Las Vegas So Fun? (9 Reasons to Visit Las Vegas)

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If you’re looking for fun, Las Vegas is the place for you. We’ve all heard the saying “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” and seen the extravagant Vegas nightlife depicted in carefree movies, but do you know much about the range of exciting possibilities a trip to Las Vegas can help you realize?

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Las Vegas is fun to visit because there are so many exciting things to do. With clubs, bars, and casinos open all hours of the day and night, the party never stops. There are also some fantastic restaurants to satisfy your food cravings, and you can visit Red Rock Canyon to work off the calories.

Keep reading to learn what makes visiting Las Vegas such a good time.

Inside this article:

1. Vegas Hotels Are The Best

Let’s face it, the hotels in Las Vegas are not your average hotels! Vegas resorts are over the top and offer a variety of fun activities and amenities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. From the world-class resort attractions to the iconic casinos, there’s something for everyone.

The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas resorts are second to none, and there are dozens of these properties to visit along the Vegas Strip alone!

Resort properties in Las Vegas are huge and designed to be small cities in and of themselves. Take, for example, the MGM Grand Hotel, it offers food, attractions, shows, shopping, and plenty of amenities. You could spend a week at the hotel and still find new things to do, see, and experience.

From the sparkling lights of the Strip to the sparkling pools, there’s nothing quite like a Vegas hotel stay.

Find the best deals on Vegas hotels and save big with TripAdvisor!

2. World-Class Vegas Shows

Vegas shows are unlike anything else in the world. From the greatest magicians to the most gifted singers and dancers, the excitement of a Vegas performance is unparalleled. From the bright lights and vivid costumes to the incredible talent, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a laugh-filled comedy show, a jaw-dropping magic show , or an awe-inspiring acrobatic performance, Vegas shows have it all. The performers put on the most amazing displays of skill and athleticism, while the production value of the shows is second to none.

It’s no wonder why shows in Las Vegas have become so popular. With a wide variety of shows, concerts, and music festivals to choose from, there is something to satisfy everyone’s entertainment needs. Hitting up one or more shows in Vegas truly offers an experience like no other.

RELATED: See a schedule of all the concerts and festivals coming to Las Vegas

3. Las Vegas Restaurants Are Unmatched

Mott 32 is one of the best restaurants in Venetian Palazzo. Mott 32 interior dining room decor.

Whether you’re a connoisseur or just craving delicious food when on holiday, Las Vegas is the place for you. There are a variety of fantastic restaurants to choose from, so whether you like Mediterranean food, classic American meals, French fine dining, or a steakhouse, there is something for everyone in Las Vegas.

Some excellent restaurants you can visit while in Las Vegas are:

Hell’s Kitchen
Amalfi – by Bobby Flay
Restaurant Guy Savoy
Barry’s Downtown Prime

So, treat your tastebuds and indulge in the best meals you’ll ever have while on holiday in Las Vegas.

RELATED: 8 Best Restaurants at Aria Las Vegas (Revealed!)

4. A Chance to Win Big at a Vegas Casino

MGM Grand is one of the must see casinos in Vegas.

Gambling can be entertaining as long as you stick to your budget. You might not win the jackpot. You might even lose a few bucks. But, when in Vegas, you simply have to hit one of the many casinos in town. It’s the whole reason the city exists.

Some of the most popular Las Vegas casinos include:

Caesars Palace Resort – Whether you’ve been to Vegas or not, you have probably heard about Caesars Palace . With 185 table games and 1324 slot machines, it is understandable why it is so popular. However, Caesars Palace is so expensive. [Reasons Why Caesars Palace is So Expensive] (Coming Soon)
Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa – This resort has it all, a beautiful pool with poolside gaming, restaurants, and, most importantly, a top-rated casino.
Bellagio Hotel and Casino – The Bellagio is the casino for you if you want to try your hand at poker. With a poker room measuring 7000 Square-feet, two high-limit areas, and forty tables, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

RECOMMENDED: Here’s What to Do If You Win Big in Las Vegas (Explained)

5. The Party Begins While the Sun’s Still Up (Vegas Day Clubs)

Las Vegas is known for its incredible party scene, so why not start early? There are many day clubs and pool parties that you can attend. Some of these are more laid back, while at others, you can experience all the pleasure and excitement of a nightclub during the day.

If you want a relaxed day in the sun, you can check out DayDream (M Resort), which isn’t as wild as some other day clubs. You can enjoy listening to the beats of some sought-after DJs while lounging on a daybed next to the pool.

If you are looking for a wild day out, you can go to Wet Republic . It is an adult-only club and offers an array of large pools, private dipping pools, fantastic food, cocktails, bungalows, and cabanas. Many world-renowned DJs perform here, and they will definitely get you ready for a wild night out.

6. Nightclubs in This City Go All Night Long

If you still have energy left after a day of partying in the sun, or if day clubs aren’t your thing, Las Vegas has all the nightclubs your heart desires. You can party all night long and enjoy everything sin city has to offer.

Some places you might want to check out include:

Kamu Ultra Karaoke – This might be one of the most entertaining places in Las Vegas. It is located at the Grand Canal Shoppes in the Venetian Resort and is unlike any other karaoke bar you have ever seen. You can hire your own private room and have an intimate karaoke party with all of your friends. They have different size rooms, offer bottle service, and are open all night.
Marquee – Get your groove on and party the night away at Marquee , a 40,000-square-foot nightclub. With seven different bars, a wide range of food, bottle service, and three rooms, each with different music, you will indeed have the time of your life.

RELATED: Marquee Nightclub Dress Code (What to Wear – Las Vegas)

7. There Is a Bar Around Every Corner in Sin City

If you’re not a party person and want to have a drink in a relaxed atmosphere, there are many bars in Las Vegas where you can quench your thirst. A favorite hangout of ours is Beer Park , located on the Vegas Strip.

Some other unique bars include Press at Four Seasons, Big Chill at New York, New York, and Tropicana Lounge at Tropicana.

If you’re looking for an affordable drink on Las Vegas Blvd., check out the 18 cheapest bars on the Strip .

8. Red Rock Canyon is Just Minutes Away

Most people come to Las Vegas to gamble and party, but there are also some incredible landscapes and outdoor activities to enjoy. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area is situated in Las Vegas and offers some of the most amazing landscapes you will come across.

You can go for a scenic drive and enjoy all the beautiful views or get physical and hike one of the many trails available. For a more adrenaline-filled adventure, you can also do some rock climbing and enjoy the sublime landscape from an elevated perspective.

Check out these top tours to Red Rock Canyon from Viator

RECOMMENDED: How Far Is The Grand Canyon From Las Vegas

9. Vegas Offers Never-Ending Attraction

The view from the High Roller is one of the best in Las Vegas.

There are many other fun touristy attractions in Las Vegas, and it can take days, if not weeks, to take in all there is to see and do.

You can take a ride on the High Roller , which is a 550-foot-high observation wheel. From atop it, you can see the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding area. You can also enjoy exploring the Las Vegas Strip on foot or by car. It is 4.2 miles (6.8km) long and hosts some of the most popular resorts, casinos, hotels, and shops.

Another fun attraction in the city (especially if you’re traveling with kids), is Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park inside Circus Circus . Here is an exciting YouTube video showing a first-person view of the Canyon Blaster Roller Coaster at Adventuredome:

Other Vegas attractions you can see include:

Fountains of Bellagio – See here for show times
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
LINQ Promenade
Fremont Street Experience

You will never run out of opportunities with so much to see. For even more information about fun Vegas things to do, you can check out our article, 21 Reasons Why Las Vegas is Soooooo Worth Visiting!

For more to see and do in Las Vegas, check out these articles:

35+ Super Fun Things to Do In Las Vegas For A Weekend
What Is AREA 15 in Las Vegas? (9+ AMAZING Things To See & Do)
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As a Vegas local who enjoys experiencing everything the city has to offer, Wendy is uniquely qualified to provide insider tips and recommendations to anyone visiting Las Vegas.

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Traveling to Las Vegas for the First Time (22 Tips & Tricks)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 25, 2023

Traveling to Las Vegas for the First Time (22 Tips & Tricks)

Traveling to Las Vegas for the first time and not sure where to start or what to know before your first visit? Planning a trip to Vegas might be overwhelming, especially so if this is your first time in the city and you want to experience the best of it.

One of the best parts about visiting Las Vegas is that it has something for everyone and for every budget! You can be a millionaire or an aspiring one and still manage to have a fantastic time living big in this fascinating city that never sleeps. However, there are some things that you really should know before you go.

To help you plan your first trip to Vegas, we selected some of the best tips for visiting Las Vegas . This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget.

Good to know: This guide is now updated after our recent trip. We hope that our first-hand experience and top tips for first-time travelers to Las Vegas will help you make the most of your trip. Find out!

If you are traveling to Las Vegas for the first time, there is a lot for you to know to make the most of your adventure. Here are some of our top travel tips for Vegas:

1. Get your bearings

There are two main areas of Las Vegas that you will hear people talk about and that you should definitely see: Downtown/ Old Vegas and the Strip.

Downtown or Old Vegas refers to the area that was the original gambling district. It’s located just north of the strip and centered around Fremont Street.

Las Vegas Strip (aka “The Strip”) is the main tourist zone of Vegas where most iconic hotels and casinos are located. The strip of Las Vegas Boulevard stretches for 4.2 miles from the SRAT Tower on the north side to the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and the Mandalay Bay on the south side. The south side is right near the airport.

If you are flying into McCarran airport you will fly right over the strip, you can’t miss it! Lots of lights and big fun await you.

2. Remember that distances are bigger than they look at first sight

Las Vegas Strip is about 4.2 miles long. It would likely take you several hours to walk the entire distance between Stratosphere and Mandalay Bay.

If you look at it on a map, it looks like an easy walk. However, it’s busy and there is so much to see and do, that you really can’t just expect to ‘see it all’ in a few hours. In addition, it takes forever to cross the side streets (and there are many of them!).

Good to know: The estimated time it takes to walk to places is a very important component when making your plans for your stay in Vegas. In general, be sure to allow more time than you think you’ll need to travel from place to place! Further below, you will find our top tips for getting around Las Vegas.

TIP: Lost on the Strip? Look up for the super tall Stratosphere tower which is on the north end to get your bearings. Also the Eiffel Tower at the ‘center’ of the Strip is visible from far.

3. Stay on The Strip (or just nearby)

If you want to be in the heart of it all, the center of the Las Vegas Strip will give you the best location. Staying here will save you time and effort as most of the main Las Vegas sights and attractions will be just nearby. Furthermore, staying at one of the iconic casino-hotels on the strip is the ultimate Vegas experience!

The LINQ , The Flamingo , or Paris Las Vegas Hotel are all hotels that are VERY centrally located and affordable. Caesars Palace is a bit more expensive but also offers great value for the location.

If you are looking for a higher-end casino/hotel, take a look at the famous Bellagio , The Venetian , or The Palazzo at The Venetian .

Good to know: The casino hotels will only allow guests under 21 with a parent or a guardian.

Before booking a hotel, see our next tip for some important information!

TIP: If you want to stay close to everything but prefer a bit quieter setting (and lower prices), look for hotels that are just off the strip. That way, you are still close to all the action, but it’s cheaper and not as busy.

For example, The Signature at MGM is just nearby and many rooms have great views of the Strip. Horseshoe Las Vegas (former Bally’s) offers very good value for the location. Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort is not too far from the strip and close to LINQ Promenade – also great value and a very popular choice in Vegas…

Our mid-budget recommendation: The Westin Las Vegas has an amazing location just off the strip, but within two minutes walk to the best part of it.

Swimming pool at Caesars Palace in Vegas

4. Beware of resort fees

Be sure to check the resort fees of any hotel you book in Vegas. The daily fee will be added to your total and can quickly add up. Some resort fees can add a big amount to your hotel bill each day, so be sure to always read the fine print.

In general, the more expensive the hotel, the higher the resort fee. It can be as low as a few dollars or as high as $50 or even more for high-end hotels. This is per night, so yes, it can add up.

TIP: We recommend booking your Vegas hotel via Booking.com . In most cases, the prices you see already include all taxes and resort fees. You can see the breakdown of the price if you click on a little ‘i’ icon next to the amount shown. That way, you can avoid unpleasant surprises at the end of your stay.

But in any case, always read the fine print as well! Often, resort fees (that you pay anyway) include all kinds of perks that you wouldn’t even think of taking advantage of.

If you want a quieter vibe or are visiting Vegas on a budget, there are plenty of smaller and cheaper hotels located a bit further off the strip. Some of them have quite a central location that will be ok for sightseeing as well. For a stay on a lower budget, take a look at Ellis Island Hotel Casino & Brewery or Tuscany Suites & Casino . Both of these hotels have a good location and excellent price/ quality ratio.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Las Vegas . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

5. Avoid weekends and public holidays

Las Vegas is a very popular weekend getaway and it’s often crowded on Friday and Saturday nights. It’s also very busy during public holidays.

The 4th of July, Labor Day, Memorial Day Weekend, and New Year are the absolute peak times in Vegas! If you come during a busy time, you’ll have to queue everywhere, some activities might sell out, and accommodations will be really expensive.

So avoid traveling on weekends and during the most popular holidays.

TIP: If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, it’s best to plan a visit to Vegas between Monday and Thursday. It’s not only quieter and more enjoyable, but most hotels also have better rates and midweek deals. Also some attractions are cheaper on weekdays (e.g. Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart to mention just one).

Big crowds at Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas

6. Walk The Strip & enjoy FREE Vegas attractions

Even if you plan on using trams, Ubers, and buses in Vegas (more about it below), there is no question that you will still spend a ton of time walking. The best way to explore Las Vegas is simply walking The Strip .

So get out there and explore! Walk through the casinos, stop for a drink or a snack along the way, and enjoy the typical Vegas atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else.

It’s also here that you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best FREE attractions in Las Vegas such as Bellagio Fountains, The Volcano, Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, and others.

Vegas is also one of the most fun places to people-watch. You will see a whole cast of characters from all over the world living their best life and letting loose.

TIP: One of the best places to “people watch” is the outdoor space at Flamingo’s Margaritaville Bar. They have tables that hang out over the top of the strip. So grab a seat, get a tasty margarita, and enjoy the views and the atmosphere!

Las Vegas tips - visit free attractions such as The Volcano

7. Wear comfortable shoes

The most important thing to pack for exploring Vegas is comfortable shoes ! Do not be fooled and think you need to look glamorous by wearing high heels. Trust me, your entire stay in Vegas can be ruined by the wrong footwear.

You can always tell who is a Vegas rookie by watching people at the end of the night. Some women even walk barefoot carrying their high-heeled shoes in their hands… There’s even a business in Vegas that has vending machines that dispense flat roll-up shoes to help people like that!

So use your common sense, pack comfortable shoes that are suitable for the season when you are visiting, and don’t let sore feet ruin your vacation!

A woman with feet pain from high heel shoes

8. Carry some water, sun protection, and a sweater

Las Vegas is in a desert and the sun can be really harsh here. So no matter when you visit, be sure to take sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat with you. It’s also a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle when exploring the city!

At the same time, you should also be prepared for the cold AC indoors. Every time you get inside a casino, a shop, or a restaurant, you’ll experience a huge difference in temperature. It’s nice to have a light sweater (or a shawl, light jacket) to cover up indoors.

9. Adjust your biological clock

Las Vegas is 24/7! There is always so much to see and do in the city and many places remain open into the early hours. The casinos do not have windows or clocks hanging on walls, so it is very easy to lose track of time. They want you to get lost in their space, and this can be both a good and a bad thing.

The whole city comes to life at night, so if you want to experience the best of Vegas, you may want to adjust your regular schedule a bit . Sleep longer in the morning so that you can stay up later in the evening.

Just don’t lose track of time, try to keep some kind of a schedule, and beware of the decisions you make, especially if you’re tired and money is involved.

10. Do some research & prepare an itinerary

Las Vegas has so much to offer that it can get overwhelming. So if you want to make the most out of your time and money, it really pays to do some research upfront .

For example, many places in the city don’t open before noon or even later. So it really helps to check this before you arrive someplace and find a closed door.

Some attractions in Las Vegas require advance bookings and in general, in most places, you’ll be able to skip the lines with online reservations. This can save you a lot of time – if you do your research!

TIP: Depending on how much time you have in Las Vegas, you could visit some nature destinations outside of the city in the mornings and leave the casinos and fun attractions for late afternoon/evening. You will also find some attractions that are open in the morning, and there are also nice tours that you can do at the quieter times of the day (e.g. this highly-rated Las Vegas Downtown walking tour takes place in the morning).

If you are short on time, preparing a good itinerary is also the only way to make sure that you can visit all the places that you want to in the most relaxing way. If you are planning on doing some day trips (by car or with a tour), it’s also wise to book ahead. That way, you can find the best options that suit your interests and timing and enjoy the very best that the city and its surroundings have to offer.

Via the link below, you can see an example of one such itinerary. It gives you an idea of how you could plan your first visit to Las Vegas.

Further below, you can find more information about some of the most popular attractions in Las Vegas where it makes sense to book ahead.

LEARN MORE: Las Vegas 1 Day Itinerary

Colorful wall at Meow Wolf Las Vegas, Area15

11. Save time & disappointment by booking in advance

Las Vegas is a city that is pretty much always busy, no matter the season. So if you absolutely want to visit a certain attraction, eat at a specific restaurant, or see a certain show, you should book in advance ! That way, you can be sure that you can experience everything you really want to.

Often, booking online in advance is also cheaper. Furthermore, it also saves you time because you can just skip the ticket office and head straight to the attraction.

Here are some popular attraction tickets and tours that you can reserve before your trip (some of them are open tickets, so you have flexibility as to when exactly you go):

LINQ High Roller (Las Vegas Ferris wheel – one of the most popular attractions in Vegas. Recently, when we visited, you couldn’t even book a ticket on the spot and they asked you to do it online).
Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at Paris Las Vegas .
Gondola ride at The Venetian and a visit to Madame Tussauds .
Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck .
Thrill Rides at the STRAT Tower .
Shark Reef Aquarium .
Fly LINQ Zipline .
Big Apple Coaster (you’ll still have to stand in line, but at least you save the queue at the ticket desk).
Helicopter tours . We took this nighttime tour over the strip (bucket list experience!).
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours .
Hard Rock Cafe on Las Vegas Strip .
All kinds of shows and performances .

Here, you can also see a good overview of shows in Vegas .

Las Vegas helicopter flight with view of the Strat Tower

12. Save money by booking last minute

If you want to see a show in Vegas, but don’t really care which one, when, or where you sit, then you can also just wait until you get there and try to get last-minute tickets .

Sometimes, you can get big discounts this way. However, the most popular shows will usually be sold out.

TIP: When looking for show tickets, be sure to stop by one of the Tix4Vegas or Tickets On Demand booths. They are scattered over several different locations on Las Vegas Strip and are bright red – you can’t miss them. They often have last-minute tickets for various shows and some attractions in town.

13. Enjoy all the food, but avoid peak dinner times

Deciding on where to eat in Las Vegas can be challenging because there are so many incredibly delicious choices. The great news is, there is something for every budget and every taste bud to enjoy.

Just remember that Vegas restaurants are extremely busy at peak dining times. So try to avoid going to a restaurant at the same time everyone else does. You’ll waste a lot of time queuing. The worst time to go for dinner is between 6 and 8 PM, and for lunch – at noon.

Be sure to hit some of these restaurants in Vegas:

Las Vegas Buffets :

Bacchanal Buffet – Caesars Palace .
Wicked Spoon – The Cosmopolitan .
The Buffet – The Wynn .

Celebrity Chefs:

Giada De Laurentiis – Giada at The Cromwell.
Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen.
Bazaar Meat by José Andrés.
Guy Savoy fine French dining at Caesars Palace .
Craft Steak – Tom Colicchio at MGM.
Gordon Ramsay – Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace, but also Gordon Ramsay Fish& Chips on LINQ Promenade.

TIP: If you want to have a good meal, avoid long queues, and save money, simply get some pizza. We had the best pizza in the US at Metro Pizza inside Ellis Island Hotel Casino . It’s just 10-15 minutes walk from the strip area around the Caesars Palace.

Desserts at gourmet restaurant in Las Vegas

14. Don’t rent a car unless you absolutely need it

When planning your first trip to Las Vegas, you might wonder if you should rent a car. Before you decide, think ahead about what your plans will be during your trip… Will you travel away from the strip area? Do you plan to visit places nearby like Hoover Dam or Red Rock Canyon? And if so, will you rather go on your own or on an organized tour?

There are plenty of transportation options to get around Las Vegas (more info further below). So unless you are planning on taking a road trip away from The Strip or Downtown Vegas, you really do not need a rental car in Vegas city itself. Most casinos charge huge parking fees and traffic is usually pretty tight, so it can often be more of a pain than a perk.

If you are planning to visit any of the best places near Las Vegas , you can also just book a tour . Whether it’s a short excursion to Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, or a longer day trip to Grand Canyon , you can find plenty of tours on GetYourGuide (our favorite site for all tour and ticket bookings) or on Viator . Using these sites, you can easily see all the best options, compare prices, and benefit from the most flexible cancelation policies on the market.

If you decide to rent a car, we recommend only booking it for those days when you really need it (so not necessarily for your stay in Vegas itself). For the best prices, check the RentalCars website . They compare the best deals from different car hire companies, offer much cheaper insurance than at the counter, and have excellent customer service. We always use this website for all our rental cars when traveling and our recent experience in Vegas was excellent.

Good to know: For greater distances in town, you can opt for taxis and Uber/Lyft rides . Taxis are definitely more expensive, but Uber/Lyft can have weird pick-up locations at hotels. Be sure to ask the concierge at each place you are getting a pick-up where the Uber/Lyft pick-up area is. You might have to do some hunting to locate them. Often, you have to foresee a lot of extra time for waiting and logistics when taking a taxi or an Uber/Lyft.

Busy traffic on Las Vegas Strip at night

15. Research airport transfers in advance

If you are flying to Las Vegas, you might wonder what is the best way to get to your hotel from the airport . It’s a good idea to know in advance what your options are. See below for more info.

There are several ways to get from McCarren International Airport to Las Vegas hotels:

The cheapest way is with a shared airport transfer . You can best book it in advance , where you also can read the instructions on where to go. It’s very straightforward and easy.
Uber/Lyft. If you plan on taking an Uber/Lyft from the airport to the strip, be sure to read the signs in order to locate the Uber/Lyft pick-up area . It’s up an elevator and across a walkway in a different building than baggage claim. There are clearly marked signs.
Taxi will likely be more expensive than the other options, especially if your hotel is on the northern side of the city. But grabbing a taxi is easy and the line usually starts right outside the baggage claim area. There is often a VERY long line with a winding queue. Don’t be dismayed by the length of the line, it usually moves very quickly.

16. Use Las Vegas Monorail

One of the best ways to get around the Strip is the Las Vegas Monorail ! This super cool monorail avoids Vegas traffic completely, keeps you in the air conditioning, and runs on the back east side of the line of resorts. It’s also much cheaper than the HoHo buses.

Las Vegas Monorail stretches from the MGM Grand down through the Las Vegas Convention Center to the SAHARA which is across the street from the Stratosphere Tower. There are 7 stops in total which will get you near most areas you want to see on the strip.

Trains typically arrive every 5-6 minutes at each stop. You can just pay for one ride, but (multi-) day passes are available too. Children aged 5 and under ride for free. You can get tickets online or at each station in the Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) which are located at each Monorail station entrance.

Good to know: The typical hours of Las Vegas monorail are from 7 AM to 2 AM. On weekends, it runs until 3 AM. On Mondays – until midnight.

17. Take a hop-on hop-off bus to get to know the city

If you’ve never been to Vegas before, the Big Bus Las Vegas is a great way to see everything in a short time, and without making your feet sore. They have ‘classic’ tickets for one or two days , or you can also opt for a night tour .

Normally, the double-decker bus tours the entire strip (the Strip Loop) and Old Vegas (Downtown Loop). Get on and off as many times as you want to see the main sights and attractions in Las Vegas . The first bus takes off at 10 AM and the last one at 5 PM.

TIP: The night tour takes about 3 hours and has a live guide. It’s, however, quite expensive if booked separately. But you can get a much better deal if you buy it in combination with a 1-day tour . So you get more value for your money if you get both tickets at once.

Good to know: If you didn’t get your tickets in advance, you can check ticket booths on the strip for any last-minute discounted deals. However, they are only valid for that calendar day, so if you want to make the most of it, it’s best to just book online and start your hop-on hop-off tour as soon as the buses start running in the morning.

18. Take advantage of FREE Monorail Trams

There are several free trams in Vegas that are not a part of the Las Vegas Monorail system. They can be a real lifesaver when your feet are tired, when it’s very hot, or when you just need to get to your next destination faster.

Las Vegas can get extremely hot, which can make walking a bit uncomfortable. Knowing where these free trams are will save you a lot of time & effort when you are exploring the city. Here are the three options:

Aria Express Tram

This free tram runs from the Bellagio through the City Center/Crystal Shopping Mall stop to the Park MGM stop. This tram runs every 7 minutes from 8 AM to 4 AM.

To access the tram in the Bellagio, go to the hallway in the Bellagio Spa Tower near the walkway to Vdara. You will see signs and stairs and an elevator that goes up to the station.

Mandalay Bay – Excalibur Tram

This is a short express tram ride that begins at Mandalay Bay, makes a stop at the Luxor, and ends at Excalibur. This tram runs from 11 AM to 10.30 PM.

The entire ride is just a 7-minute trip, but it will help you travel through these three hotels much more quickly. What looks like a short walk, could take up to 45 minutes on foot.

Good to know: There is also an Express Tram that runs directly between the Excalibur and Mandalay Bay, skipping the Luxor altogether. It takes just 3 minutes.

TIP: Be on the lookout! The Main Station on this trip has a free slot pull machine with a $5,000 payoff. So be sure to stop there for a free pull and try your luck! You may end up winning a free show ticket instead, but free is free!

Mirage – Treasure Island Tram

This tram runs between The Mirage and Treasure Island. The ride takes less than five minutes, on foot this could take 20-30 minutes. It runs every 15 minutes, between 7 AM and 2 AM.

19. Budget your spending ahead of time

If you plan on gambling in Las Vegas, the first thing you should do is set a gambling budget for yourself . How much will you spend per day throughout the trip?

It is very easy to blow through your hard-earned money like it is Monopoly money. So be careful!

Be smart and make sure you fill some of your time with free Vegas attractions such as Bellagio Fountains, The Volcano, Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, and many others. Your savings account will thank you!

20. Rember that the house always wins

Many people visiting Vegas are planning to try their luck at one of the casinos. It’s an experience in itself, but remember that the HOUSE ALWAYS WINS . So only gamble what you can afford to lose!

If you have never gambled before and want to give it a try, be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the games you are planning to play. Ideally, you do this before you come to Vegas, as many experienced gamblers will not be thrilled to have a newbie at the table.

Alternatively, head to the casinos in the morning or during the day. Those are the slow times when dealers will have more time and might even offer to teach you the game. In that case, be sure to tip them for the time and effort. Also, check with the casino you are staying at and see if they have any gaming lessons during the day.

Slot machines are stress-free and can be super fun to take at your own pace. So if you are new to Vegas, it’s probably better to start with them rather than the table games. Just be sure to plug in your member’s loyalty card in the slot to reap as many benefits as you can from the money you will likely lose. See below for more information.

TIP: If you are planning on gambling, you may want to wait before you order your drinks. Many casinos in Vegas offer free drinks to the people who gamble . So often, a waiter will come up to you and will offer some drinks on a house, but only if you are actually playing. So ‘free’ is never really free… Also, don’t forget to tip the waiter!

21. Reap the rewards of your loyalty

It doesn’t matter if you plan on gambling $20 or $2,000, the first thing you must do when gambling in Las Vegas is to sign up for the member loyalty card of the casino you are gambling in. If you are planning to spend the money anyway, you can as well try to get something back…

Just remember that there ain’t no such thing as a free lunch!

By signing up for these member reward cards, you will be rewarded for your loyalty. So be sure to show this card in every store, restaurant, card table and slide it into every slot machine that you play. They will track your spending and give you rewards based on that. If you want to rake up the points, stick to one casino group to make sure your spending adds up faster.

They will then send future bargains and deals for your next trip to Vegas. If you are really lucky and spend enough money in their casino, they will also give you ‘comps’ which are “complimentary” items like free dinners, discounted or free hotel rooms, show ticket discounts, etc…

There are two main reward cards for most of the casinos on the Las Vegas strip – one from MGM Resorts and one from Caesars – more info below. There are also a few other smaller programs too.

M life Rewards Loyalty Program for MGM Resorts. These casinos/resorts include MGM Grand, Bellagio, The Mirage, Mandalay Bay, ARIA, New York New York, Delano, Luxor, Vdara, and Excalibur.

Caesars Rewards from Caesars Entertainment. These casinos/resorts include Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Horseshoe, Harrah’s, The Cromwell, The LINQ, Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood, Circus Circus, Tropicana, and Rio.

These groups are all competing for your business, so be smart about your spending and reap as many rewards as you can, because – remember – the house always wins!

Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino in Vegas

22. Explore off the strip & get outside the city

Do yourself a favor and dedicate some time to exploring the Las Vegas area away from the Strip. Las Vegas has so much to offer that goes beyond the most famous casinos!

Be sure to visit some of these places:

Old Vegas/ Downtown Vegas: Fremont Street (Old Strip), Downtown Container Park (outdoor shopping mall/ entertainment center), the Neon Museum (you can get here by public transport, with a hop-on hop-off bus , or by taxi).
Area15. A cool venue just outside the strip. One of the highlights here is Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart . It’s a very unique experience with lights, colors, and alternative dimensions – something you won’t quickly forget.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and/or Seven Magic Mountains (can also visit with a tour ).
Hoover Dam (can easily visit with a tour ).
Valley of Fire State Park (there are some great tours available ).
Lake Mead ( ATV tours are popular here).
Grand Canyon (there are some nice helicopter tours and lots of bus tours if you don’t have a car).

Many of these places that can be visited with a tour, can actually be combined in just one trip. So you can make the most of your time. Check out all the options via the links above.

You can read more about the best places and experiences in and near Vegas via the link below. Check it out!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Las Vegas Best Day Trips & Tours from Las Vegas

Valley of Fire State Park is a nice place to see near Vegas

Las Vegas Travel FAQ

You could see the best of Las Vegas in 24 hours, but you could also find plenty to do each day if you spent a week here. In general, 3 – 4 days or a long weekend is a good amount of time for your first trip to Vegas. This will allow you to see all the highlights and maybe even take an excursion or two outside the city.

The best time to visit Las Vegas weather-wise is in early spring or later in the fall (March-April or October-November). Vegas is in the desert, so the summer months can easily see highs in the 100° range. In winter, the temperatures are mild and you can even get an occasional snow shower. If you want to avoid the crowds, don’t come to Vegas on the 4 th of July, New Year’s Eve, Labor Day & Memorial Day Weekends.

The cheapest time to visit Las Vegas is the first half of December and January. Just before and right after the New Year’s celebrations, the city tends to be much quieter than at any other time and you can find good deals for flights and accommodations. Also in summer, when it’s too hot for many people, you might be able to find cheap hotel rates, especially in August.

Absolutely, Las Vegas is really a city for everyone! One of the best things about Las Vegas is that whether you are a high roller or not, you will be able to find ways to have fun on every budget.

Repeat after me… THE HOUSE ALWAYS WINS! That needs to be your mantra while you are there. Unfortunately, the chances of you hitting a big jackpot are very slim. So make sure you keep your gambling budget strict and only gamble with what you can afford to lose.

So, these are some of our top tips and things you should know when visiting Las Vegas.

Remember that you can’t see it all in just a few days, so make a plan, but also allow some time to discover some hidden gems and simply enjoy the moment.

One more thing – try to be open-minded and sometimes just go with the flow. Otherwise, it’s easy to get stressed out by the crowds and all the craziness around you. Remember that Vegas is all about having fun, so enjoy your time in Sin City!

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Grand Canyon in 1 Day

More travel inspiration for Southwestern USA:

Bucket list trip: Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Itinerary
Death Valley: Best Places to See in Death Valley
Gold Butte, NV: Travel Guide to Gold Butte National Monument
Arizona: Best Places to See in Arizona & Monument Valley Scenic Drive
Sedona, AZ: Best Things to Do in Sedona & One Day in Sedona
Phoenix, AZ: Scottsdale & Phoenix Itinerary
Zion, UT: Hiking in Zion National Park & Zion to Bryce Canyon Trip Itinerary
Colorado Rockies: Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary & Best Things to Do in Aspen & Maroon Bells
Moab, UT: Moab, Arches National Park & Canyonlands National Park
Arches NP, UT: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park
Canyonlands NP, UT: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
San Diego, CA: San Diego Itinerary
Yosemite, CA: Yosemite Travel Guide

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Everything you should know when traveling to Las Vegas for the first time

Image credits: Las Vegas Strip at night – aiisha/Depositphotos.com// Caesars swimming pool – BobHilscher/Depositphotos.com// Monorail – Roig61/Depositphotos.com// Vegas traffic & New York hotel – bloodua/Depositphotos.com// Tickets on demand & Rideshare stand- MichaelVi/Depositphotos.com// Las Vegas Boulevard in the dark & The Volcano – kobbydagan/Depositphotos.com// Wynn Resort – harrybeugelink/Depositphotos.com// Fremont Street crowds – Arena73/Depositphotos.com//

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Navneet Sahota

Friday 31st of March 2023

I find this article very helpful. I am leaving for my trip next week fr my 40th birthday thanks for all the tips :)

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

Glad to help and happy birthday!

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

The weather in March is comfortable to stroll through the city. Avg. highs reach about 22ºC (72ºF) with low humidity levels. The mornings are a bit chillier 9ºC (15ºF). Usually doesn't rain in March and you will be able to see blue skies most of the time.

Wednesday 25th of January 2023

Thanks for sharing your experience visiting Las Vegas in March, Rafael. Indeed, spring and fall are the best times weather-wise.

Sunday 1st of January 2023

Any recommendations for the beginning of March? Is it too hot during that time?

Thursday 5th of January 2023

@Jurga, Thanks so much! 🤗

Hi Kira, March should be great for Las Vegas! It shouldn’t be too hot at all. That being said, you never know how the weather will be. But normally, it’s as good as it gets. We once visited in July and it was ok and we were in Vegas for the New Year last week and it was wet and windy, but we had a great time. There’s plenty to see and do in any weather!

Monday 19th of September 2022

Hi everyone!

I want to visit Las Vegas for my 28th birthday. My concern is the weather as my birthday is in the beginning of February. I'm scared the cold weather and possible snow/rain will ruin the trip and photos outside.

Is it worth going in February? 😔

Hi Alysha, we ourselves are planning to visit Las Vegas this winter too and the weather is really of no concern. There is so much to see and do in the city in any weather that I really wouldn't worry about it. Just check the forecast a few days before your trip and pack accordingly. In general, you can expect very nice and pleasant weather in February - definitely during the day. And on average, it only rains 2 days a month in February - it's really not something I'd worry about. You should know that some of the National Parks nearby (Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon) can experience winter weather indeed, but it shouldn't be an issue in Las Vegas itself or places like Death Valley or Antelope Canyon if you'd decide to visit those as well. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip and remember that there's no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing ;). PS For more ideas on what to see and do in Vegas and nearby, take a look at our articles: the best things to do in Las Vegas and the best day trips from Las Vegas.

Saturday 3rd of July 2021

Be aware that the first half of December can be very expensive because National Finals Rodeo is in Las Vegas at that time.

Sunday 4th of July 2021

Thanks for the info, CJ. Happy travels!

Forbes Travel Guide Stories

Why You Should Visit Las Vegas Right Now By Correspondent Melinda Sheckells

June 14, 2022

Whether you visit monthly, quarterly, yearly or once a decade, Las Vegas always offers a new itinerary of options from restaurants and bars to suites and amenities. In this city of constant reinvention, there are recent openings within casino resorts and renovated properties. The local restaurant scene is hotter than ever, bringing top culinary talents with Strip pedigrees to the corridors surrounding the famed 4.2-mile stretch.

Whether the destination is walking distance from your room or a quick jaunt to a part of the city you never knew existed, Las Vegas strikes gold with a winning hand of experiences.

ON THE STRIP

Resorts World Las Vegas is the new kid on the block, having opened in June 2021 with dozens of new amenities to discover. And more has been unveiled since its debut, including the Resorts World Theatre, restaurants and a cigar lounge.

See a Show in a High-Tech Theater

Resorts World Las Vegas and Concerts West/AEG Presents unveiled the Resorts World Theatre, designed by Scéno Plus. The 5,000-capacity multi-level live performance venue is home to Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry, Celine Dion and Luke Bryan.

The seventh performance venue in Las Vegas designed by Scéno Plus, it’s the city’s largest and tallest stage. The furthest seat is only 150 feet away. LED screens and an immersive audio experience through more than 200 L-Acoustics speakers powered by L-ISA Hyperreal Sound technology bring you directly into the show, breaking down all barriers between the performer and the audience.

Indulge in Cigars and Spirits

From entrepreneur Giuseppe Bravo and celebrity attorney David Chesnoff, Clique Hospitality’s Eight Cigar Lounge is named for the luckiest number in Chinese culture. And throughout the space, discover numerous nods to the numeral. The lounge is separated into eight spaces, and eight sections divide the custom-built humidor. Personal lockers bear gold name plates and hold cigars and spirits for celebrity clients such as Michael Jordan and Luke Bryan.

On the menu, choose from more than 150 cigars, including Drew Estate, Arturo Fuente and Ashton that range from $18 to $1,500. The flavor profiles of cocktails and spirits match the premium tobaccos for optimal pairings.

Eight transitions from a daytime cigar bar to an indoor/outdoor cigar-friendly lounge in the evening, courtesy of the panoramic Strip-facing patio.

Try New Restaurants

In addition to Kusa Nori and Genting Palace , there are dozens of other casual-, fine- and vibe-dining options. In a city of grand steakhouses, the new Carversteak proclaims itself the largest in terms of square footage. Brought to life by DesignAgency, Carver features two private rooms known as The Knife Shop and Scotch Room, a 70-foot honed quartzite stone bar leading into the main dining room, a gallery of digital and traditional art pieces and a 3,500-square-foot terrace overlooking the Strip.

Chef Daniel Ontiveros puts together a menu of dry-aged American cuts, global artisan beef and Japanese-certified wagyu alongside creative dishes such as lobster Thermidor en croûte , caviar poppers and mini wagyu cheesesteak bites. Carver Road Hospitality (Carversteak’s parent company) vice president of beverage and hospitality culture Francesco Lafranconi adds his whimsical spin to every cocktail that crosses the bar with a focus on the Vesper and Gibson martinis.

A few doors down from Carversteak, Bar Zazu is a Spanish and European-style tapas concept from Jason Rocheleau and executive chef Nicole Brisson (the team behind sister Resorts World restaurant Brezza). The walls have eyes as the interactive digital artwork cycles through the Ladies of Zazu portraits, all of whom have corresponding cocktails on the menu. Are you Sophia, Heather, Isabella or Scarlet?

Decide that important question while tasting the pan con tomate ; ceviche with leche de tigre ; Creekstone steak tartare with capers, shallots, egg yolk and brioche; fried broccolini with Calabrian aioli and lemon; and the impressive bone marrow for two with trumpet mushrooms and pickled mustard seeds.

Other culinary additions to Resorts World include new food stalls at Famous Foods: Fuhu Cha Chaan Teng, a full-service dim sum and tea restaurant; Burger Barn, which has an Asian influence; and Harajuku Ramen, which features build-your-own bowls.

See Caesars’ New Makeover

At Caesars Palace , two renovation projects bring a new look to popular spaces. Nobu received redesigned accommodations and public areas from the Rockwell Group. The aesthetic is inspired by kintsugi , the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold epoxy, a style that creates cohesion with collage. Within the rooms, find a custom sofa made of patchwork upholsteries and a quartzite coffee table with a gold base and cracked kintsugi effect.

An important feature in Las Vegas hospitality spaces, the custom carpet dons eggplant hues and abstract florals overlaid with gold cracks. In the corridors, koi fish cluster at each door and the inset lobby carpet shows slabs of marble and agate with gold veining. The iconic resort entrance also had a facelift with a high dome ceiling, a 15-foot-tall Caesar statue, two refreshed gaming areas and a new lobby bar.

Stay in Lavish Suites

Reinventing the Strip’s luxury accommodations, Five-Star ARIA Sky Suites revamped seven SKYVILLAS and 420 Sky Suites. The SKYVILLAS, designed by KES Studio, have a major dose of glamour, furniture made of plush fabrics and undulating forms are positioned to soak in the views of floor-to-ceiling windows and frame the opulent bedrooms and bathrooms. These villas are prime for entertaining. If you love cigars, select from a personalized cart delivering hand-rolled masterpieces, and foodies savor custom-made chocolates or freshly baked mesquite bread, among other treats.

The Sky Suites showcase mid-century modern vibes in their design by Rottet Studio. One- and two-bedroom accommodations feature a cream, gray and beige color scheme with whimsical art and lighting fixtures. Expect nightly turndown amenities like game kits with backgammon, checkers and chess; custom-designed drink coasters by local artists; or handmade truffles from the pastry team. (Read more on the renovated suites here .)

Enjoy Unusual Dinner and a Show

Dining and drinking disruptor Superfrico in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is the new pre-game spot before seeing Spiegelworld’s Opium , which plays in the adjacent theater. At Superfrico, the sky’s the limit on fun, and Italian American “psychedelic fare” comes with surprises, wild art and a party atmosphere. Explore the Artery main dining room; the Studio for dinner or drinks with a DJ spinning vinyl; and the Ski Lodge, an après-ski cocktail bar in the desert with a roaring fire and kitsch from winter ski destinations.

All-stars back Superfrico: pizza czar Anthony Falco, executive chef Mitch Emge and mixologist Leo Robitschek. Forget appetizers and start with pizza, whether it is round, Neapolitan-style or square pizzas with crispy, cheesy “frico” edges — a must-try is the pistachio mortadella. The chicken parm is marinated in yuzu-based ponzu sauce and coated with a mix of Japanese panko and housemade sourdough breadcrumbs. Showgoers can also have personal pizzas and cocktails delivered to their seats.

There’s also art at Superfrico — it features more than 20 original works. At the center of the collection is Adehla Lee’s Psycho Pop Party , a candy-colored acrylic painting. Also take note of 20-plus action figures created by Morgan Philips, also known as The Sucklord, based on the Opium characters, who regularly party-crash the restaurant.

OFF THE STRIP

Go 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea for Dinner

In 2020, Area15 debuted an out-of-this-world experience outside the resort corridor. Adjacent to the Strip, it offers immersive art-and-music-filled amusements such as Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, Wink World and Museum Fiasco, among many other attractions. Adding to the compendium, Lost Spirits distillery opened a dreamscape of tasting rooms for its bespoke spirits line, including a 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea- themeddinner, with a 16-course menu by Taylor Persh, show tickets and strong drinks.

Sit in a dining room inspired by pioneering director Georges Méliès and tuck into dishes such as uni crème brûlée and nori bonbons. The long 12-seat table inside the dining room transports you under the sea. Pre-dinner, enjoy the performances within Lost Spirits with acrobats, burlesque, jazz singers and clowns.

Savor a Live-Fire Meal

In the downtown neighborhood of East Fremont, Peyote , inside the revamped Fergusons dining, shopping and entertainment collaborative, tapped chefs Daniel Arias and Isidro Marquez-Castillo helm the city’s first live-fire restaurant. From Calexico, Arias trained in Europe before coming to Las Vegas to work in the kitchens of Joël Robuchon and José Andrés. Marquez-Castillo was raised in Tehuacán, Puebla, in central Mexico, harvesting corn, chiles, tomatoes and cilantro and spending hours with his family making moles . He then trained with Luciano Pellegrini in Las Vegas at Valentino and in 2011, he joined Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup inside The Cosmopolitan, where he became a master cook at China Poblano and Jaleo.

Arias met Marquez-Castillo at the ultra-exclusive é by José Andrés and they remained close friends over the years. In the summer of 2021, the pair opened The Black Pearl at Vegas Test Kitchen, adjacent to Peyote, where they served ceviche and tacos before heading next door to revamp the dinner and brunch menus.

Don’t miss the chorizo margarita, Veracruz-style grilled octopus, skirt steak asada with chimichurri salsa and cheese-stuffed Anaheim chile. For brunch, try shrimp ceviche, shrimp tacos, chilaquiles and challah French toast.

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Do you want to visit Las Vegas? There are surely many things that you still don’t know about the city in Nevada. Find out why millions of people visit Las Vegas every year.

Las Vegas Travel Guide

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Why visit Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is the world's entertainment capital , a true theme park for grown-ups that never disappoints. Las Vegas is also one of the most visited cities in the world as well as being the city which has grown the most over the 20th century.

As soon as you step off the plane at the airport , you'll know you're in a one-of-a-kind place. Walking through the airport, decorated with thousands of slot machines, you realize why it's known as “America’s Playground”.

With its unique themed hotels and incredible shows , you'll believe you're on holiday in a parallel world. David Copperfield, Madonna, Elton John, and many other artists will ensure you have a perfect trip.

This is where our story begins in finding out why Las Vegas is also known as Sin City. Remember: what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

Traveling to Las Vegas with children?

Although most visitors are adults, children can also enjoy the hotels with a circus, swimming pools, attractions, fairgrounds, and the best shows on the planet. You can also have fun on a helicopter ride over the city of lights or on a trip to the Grand Canyon .

Need accommodation?

If you don't have accommodation yet in Las Vegas, we recommend visiting our search engine, where you’ll find all types of hotels, hostels, and apartments with the best rates guaranteed (with up to 75% discount) . And, what's more, you'll only have to pay once you arrive at your destination.
Hotels in Las Vegas – Find the best deals online.

top activities

Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip Enjoy awe-inspiring views of some of the United States' most incredible scenery on this day trip to the Grand Canyon West Rim and the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas !

Go City Las Vegas Explorer Pass The Go City Las Vegas Explorer Pass offers access to 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 of the city's top attractions . Save up to 55% and decide what to visit on the go.

Las Vegas Strip Night Tour Millions of glittering lights, glamorous hotels and spectacular fountains . Experience the glory of Las Vegas with a champagne toast as you tour Sin City!

High Roller Ticket With this ticket to High Roller , you can get the most amazing views of the City of Sin from this gigantic ferris wheel in Las Vegas!

Aboard this open-top tour bus, you'll enjoy the finest night views of Las Vegas . It's one of the most comfortable ways to experience Sin City .

The Strat Las Vegas Ride Tickets Looking for an adrenaline rush? If you're in Las Vegas , don't miss your ticket to The Strat attractions – a roller coaster and sky-high free fall!

The STRAT Tower Observation Deck Ticket With your ticket to The Strat Tower Observation Deck , you'll climb the tallest observation tower in the USA and have incredible views over Las Vegas .

Battlefield Shooting Experience Shooting and feeling the power and sound of endless pistols, rifles and machine guns is something you can only do in Battlefield Vegas.

Elvis Wedding in Las Vegas Get married in Vegas! Make your visit to Sin City unforgettable by sealing your love with the King of Rock 'n' Roll as a witness in Graceland Chapel!

Join this private tour of the Grand Canyon and discover one of the most iconic landmarks in the American West , with whomever you wish to come.

Go City: Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass The Go City: Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass allows access to 35 attractions in Las Vegas , including the High Roller Ferris wheel, & the city's main sights.

Grand Canyon Tour + Private Flights On this Grand Canyon tour, we'll travel by plane to the west rim of this natural formation and discover its panoramic viewpoints - a complete experience!

Bryce Canyon Day Trip On this excursion to Bryce Canyon National Park , see the world's biggest concentration of rock spires, called Hoodoos . A forest of rocks you won't forget!

Las Vegas Helicopter Tour Flying over the Las Vegas strip in a helicopter is an unforgettable experience . Enjoy it at any time, be it during the day or at night!

Book this private tour of Las Vegas for you and your loved ones and your guide will take you to explore the hotels and chapels in the so-called 'Sin City'.

Excursion to Antelope Canyon Antelope Canyon is one of the most magical corners of Arizona , and with this excursion, you can visit the canyon and discover spectacular landscapes.

Grand Canyon South Rim Plane Ride Fly over the Grand Canyon's South Rim in a plane and then take a minibus tour of the most stunning sites of the national park with a picnic included!

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Ticket Enjoy a fun-filled time posing with your favourite artists on the most iconic stages in Sin City with this Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Ticket.

Grand Canyon Day Trip + Las Vegas at Night This combination tour is the best way to see the most iconic sights of Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and its surrounding area in just one day.

Hoover Dam Half-Day Trip On the Colorado River stands one of the world's largest dams . On this tour, marvel at this titanic megastructure, featured in Superman and Transformers.

Death Valley Tour Salt flats, mountains and arid dunes: discover one of the most impressive desert landscapes in the U.S. on this Death Valley National Park tour .

Tickets to O by the Cirque du Soleil O is the Cirque du Soleil's water show , running in Las Vegas since 1998. An unexpected aquatic experience & a beautiful opera make this truly unmissable.

Tickets to LOVE by the Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas LOVE is the world's biggest celebration of the Beatles' musical legacy with more than 60 artists paying homage to their most famous songs.

Tickets to Mystère by the Cirque du Soleil Mystère is one of the most famous shows by the Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas. Impossible acrobatics, amazing talents and set make this show a must-see.

Travel into space and immerse yourself in this incredible place's jaw-dropping multimedia and sensory experiences with this ticket to Illuminarium Las Vegas .

Private Tours from Las Vegas On one of our private tours from Las Vegas you'll visit the Grand Canyon, the Antelope, Bryce or Zion Canyons, or Mount Charleston with an exclusive guide.

If you want to enjoy New York nightlife in Las Vegas , the new Cirque du Soleil Mad Apple show will transport you directly to the nightclubs in the Big Apple.

Travel to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend on this tour from Las Vegas and visit two of the most fascinating places in the Arizona desert !

Grand Canyon Tour + Skydiving Looking for a truly unique Grand Canyon experience ? On this tour, we'll be visiting the famous canyon on foot and by parachute .

Looking to try something new? In this activity, you'll get your adrenaline going as you drive a powerful monster truck through the desert of Las Vegas .

Red Rock Canyon Bike Tour Discover the remarkable scenery around Red Rock Canyon , in the Nevada desert and just a few minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, with an electric bike tour.

Valley of Fire Hike If you enjoy hiking then make the most of this hike in the Valley of Fire . The park's impressive landscape and near Las Vegas will leave you in awe!

Zombie Burlesque Las Vegas Ticket Enjoy Zombie Burlesque in Las Vegas, a show packed with songs, comedy and burlesque that will take you back to the 1950s to a world invaded by zombies.

Las Vegas Hot Air Balloon Ride Experience the enchanting desert landscapes of Las Vegas at sunrise as you embark on a captivating hot air balloon journey through Sin City.

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour On this kayak tour through the Emerald Cave we'll paddle through the waters of the Colorado River to discover a natural treasure .

Invictus Experience: Espionage Adventure Want to be a spy for a day? Book this activity and feel like the next James Bond: drive a luxury vehicle , shoot different kinds of real guns and skydive!

If you love fine dining, this Las Vegas food tour is for you. We'll take you to taste the most exclusive dishes at several gourmet restaurants on The Strip .

Light Aircraft Tour of the Grand Canyon On this light aircraft tour of the Grand Canyon , we'll fly over the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead!

Ticket to The Mentalist Do you think it's possible to enter other people's minds? Find out for yourself with this ticket to The Mentalist , one of the best shows in Las Vegas!

Ticket to Absinthe Las Vegas Absinthe is the #1 show in Vegas for adults . The fantastical blend of classic circus with wild and extravagant acts will give you an unforgettable night out.

On this tour to the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas , we'll visit Nevada's oldest state park and its breathtaking red-colored landscapes - an absolute must!

Los Angeles Tour On this tour to Los Angeles we'll depart from Las Vegas to visit Hollywood and Beverly Hills , and other icons of the Californian city . You will love it!

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour Visiting the Grand Canyon by helicopter is one of the most popular activities in Las Vegas . Make the most of your trip with this incredible experience!

Shooting, Archery & Axe Throwing in Las Vegas If you're looking for adventure, this activity in the Las Vegas Desert is perfect for you! Try your hand at shooting, archery, and axe throwing !

On our Las Vegas Desert Buggy Tour , you'll have an unforgettable experience driving through this arid desert in Nevada . You'll also try your hand at shooting!

Arizona Desert Trip: 3 Days Sedona, the famous Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley... Discover the undisputed beauty in the southwestern state with this Arizona Desert Trip lasting 3 days.

Las Vegas Desert Shooting Practice In this Las Vegas Desert shooting activity , you'll get the exhilarating experience of shooting different guns in the spectacular Nevada desert.

Blue Man Group Ticket Go on a multi-sensory adventure with Blue Man Group , an unforgettable show that has captivated more than 35 million people around the world since 1991 .

Grand Canyon 2 Day Tour Immerse yourself in the iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon on this two day tour from Las Vegas : discover Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell and Glen Canyon.

Awakening Show in Las Vegas If you're in Las Vegas and are a fan of fantasy and sci-fi movies and novels, then Awakening is perfect for you. Delve into this immersive experience!

At the Hard Rock Cafe Las Vegas , you'll feel the true spirit of Sin City and enjoy a classic American meal while listening to the greatest rock hits.

Las Vegas Luxury Wedding Can't wait to marry the love of your life? Say "I do?" in style with a luxury wedding in Las Vegas - a day you'll remember forever!

With this ticket to the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel , you'll enjoy the best panoramic views of The Strip, the great avenue of the city of casinos.

Excavator Operation Desert Experience In Las Vegas , you can experience anything! So why not hop behind the wheel of an excavator for an adrenaline rush as you operate heavy machinery in the desert!

Las Vegas Wedding at Graceland Chapel More than 100,000 marriages are celebrated in Las Vegas every year. If you want to join these lucky ones, plan your wedding at the iconic Graceland Chapel .

Pawn Stars Set Tour Are you a fan of the TV show Pawn Stars ? Join us on this tour of Pawn Stars' sets to see the places where this popular American reality show was filmed.

MJ Live: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert Enjoy the best songs in the history of pop and witness Michael Jackson perform live in front of his fans with your ticket to MJ Live .

SkyJump at The Strat Experience an adrenaline rush and test your limits at The Strat's SkyJump , the tallest observation tower in the United States - an unforgettable adventure!

Mat Franco Magic's Show Ticket With this ticket to Mat Franco's magic show , you'll experience a show full of mind-blowing optical illusions , masterful sleights of hand, and card tricks.

Comedy and magic combine perfectly in this Piff the Magic Dragon show in Las Vegas . Don't miss one of the funniest shows in town!

Atomic Saloon Show Tickets If you're in Las Vegas, don't hesitate to purchase a ticket to the Atomic Saloon Show , an incredible performance that's equal parts acrobatics and comedy .

Ride through one of the most arid places in the U.S. on this exciting quad tour through the Las Vegas desert. Adventure awaits!

Visit the Atomic Museum Don't miss the chance to visit the Atomic Museum in Las Vegas and explore the rich history of nuclear testing in Southern Nevada .

Explode A Car In Las Vegas Experience the ultimate car explosion adventure in the Las Vegas desert , where you can detonate a vehicle with your own hands just like in the movies!

Piano Man Tickets Sing along to Billy Joel and Elton John's greatest hits at the Piano Man show in Las Vegas . An experience like never before in the V Theatre!

Las Vegas Desert Buggy Tour If you're looking for thrills, you'll love our buggy tour in the Las Vegas Desert ! We'll have a blast as we drive through the spectacular deserts of Nevada .

Tickets for Michael Jackson ONE Pay homage to the King of Pop with this tribute to Michael Jackson , a musical spectacle, acrobatics and a light show by the legendary Cirque du Soliel .

Aerial Combat Experience Think you've seen it all? Well on this tour we'll recreate aerial combat, with you piloting the most advanced acrobatic plane in the world . Think again!

Tickets to KÁ by the Cirque du Soleil You'll be able to see it, but you won't be able to believe it: the slogan of Cirque du Soleil's KÁ, combining martial arts, acrobatics, dance and projections.

Las Vegas Party Tour Are you ready to party with us on this night tour of Las Vegas ? We'll dance to Latin music in the best clubs in ' Sin City '.

Wedding in the Valley of Fire The striking colours and breathtaking rock formations of the Valley of Fire make it the perfect backdrop for a beautiful wedding ceremony .

Vegas! The Show Ticket Lights, Music, Camera, Action! Find out why Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world at the city's most complete show: Vegas! The Show .

V - The Ultimate Variety Show Las Vegas Ticket Enjoy the V - The Ultimate Variety Show in Las Vegas, the show that brings together the world's most impressive and innovative performances into one show.

Grand Canyon & Utah National Parks 3 Day Tour Discover the spectacular natural landscapes of the southwestern USA on this three-day tour of the Grand Canyon and Utah's national parks .

Shopping at The North Premium Outlets Adidas, Hugo Boss, Burberry, Calvin Klein... if you're looking to refresh your wardrobe at incredible prices, don't miss this tour to the North Premium Outlets.

The Mafia Museum Ticket Discover one of the most unique history museums in the United States, the Mafia Museum . You'll learn about the history of the mafia and organised crime!

Discover Las Vegas and its surroundings at your own pace with this 2-hour Can-Am Ryker rental - the most fun way to get around the city and the desert!

Zion Canyon & Valley of Fire Day Trip Explore the breathtaking scenery of the United States' West Coast on our Zion Canyon & Valley of Fire Day Trip from Las Vegas.

Discover two natural treasures of the state of Nevada with this excursion to Zion and Bryce canyons . We'll walk among incredible rock formations!

Zion National Park Tour Take a break from Sin city on our Zion National Park Tour . You'll travel to one of Utah's breathtaking national parks and wander through beautiful scenery.

Las Vegas Excavator Driving + Car Crushing If you're after a unique way to blow off steam, our Las Vegas Desert Excavator Driving activity is perfect for you! Ready to drive a Big Cat Excavator ?

Channel your inner cowboy on this horseback ride through the desert of Las Vegas. You'll have a blast as you trot through the arid desert of Nevada!

South Rim Day Trip This South Rim day trip from Las Vegas is a great opportunity to see the famous Grand Canyon, Kolb Studio, Bright Angel Lodge and other landmarks .

Las Vegas Tourist Bus Explore Sin City's most iconic landmarks in the comfort of a double-decker open-top bus. Hop on & hop off whenever you'd like for total flexibility!

the ghost town of Nelson , and the renowned Hoover Dam .

Aerobatic Flight Experience Neither skydiving nor bungee jumping compares to the adrenaline rush of aerobatic flying . On this flight, you'll feel the excitement of the exhibition arena !

Ticket to Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. With your ticket to the Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. , you can discover the secrets of the most famous superheroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe .

Criss Angel Mindfreak Live Ticket Discover a world of mystery and magic with the celebrated magician Criss Angel . Mindfreak Live is an immersive spectacle with mind-blowing tricks!

Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show By booking your tickets to Purple Reign , you'll enjoy one of the best tributes to Prince in Las Vegas. You'll experience his greatest hits live!

Ticket to The Hunger Games: The Exhibition With this ticket to The Hunger Games: The Exhibition , you'll see the costumes , props and sets from the saga - immerse yourself in the nation of Panem.

Fly LINQ Ticket Get your adrenaline pumping and fly over Las Vegas with this ticket to the Fly LINQ Zipline ! You'll see the City of Sin from a truly unique perspective.

Yellowstone, Rocky Mountains, Bryce Canyon & Grand Teton 7-Day Tour Explore Yellowstone, the Rocky Mountains, Bryce Canyon & Grand Teton on this 7-day tour from Las Vegas. Four impressive national parks in the U.S. await!

Death Valley & Yosemite National Park 4 Day Tour On this 4 day tour through Death Valley and Yosemite National Park , you'll see some of California's most amazing landscapes and end tour in San Francisco .

Day Trip to Mt. Charleston Escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas and immerse yourself in a snowy winter wonderland on our day trip to Mt. Charleston .

Forget everything you know about the laws of nature with this ticket to the Nathan Burton magic show – nothing is what it seems!

Las Vegas to San Francisco 7-Day Tour Package On this 7-day tour from Las Vegas, we'll visit the Grand Canyon, the South Rim, Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon and more!

The most concise guide to Las Vegas.

We offer a travel guide for holidaymakers with personal advice to help you optimize your time. This guide will provide all the information on Las Vegas you need to make your trip perfect.

The information and practical details are up to date as of June 2022 . If you see a mistake or something that you think we should change, please get in touch with us .

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When to go to Las Vegas: find the best time for your visit to Sin City

Apr 6, 2022 • 5 min read

Three friends smile and laugh Las Vegas sign in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

Las Vegas is an oasis of indulgence in the desert. The Strip shimmers with promise and the city's seduction is hypnotic. But if you're wondering whether it's always scorching hot in the desert or about visiting in the off-season for a cheaper stay, you might be asking "when is the best time to go to Sin City?" Our month-by-month guide to climate and events in Las Vegas can help you choose the best time for your visit.

High season (March to May and September to November) has the best weather

Las Vegas is balmy by day and pleasantly cool at night in the spring and fall. March is probably the busiest month, but April to June and September to November are nearly perfect. High season does mean hotel and ticket prices soar, though.

Low season (June to August) is the cheapest (but hottest) time to visit

With temperatures regularly entering triple digits, summers in Las Vegas are sweltering. However, Las Vegas has the very best pools around and low season means great hotel deals.

Shoulder season (December to February) is a good time to avoid the crowds

There are deals in excess during these winter months and the holiday season brings the wildest revelry. The desert is cold and crowds are thinnest in January.

City skyline at night with Bellagio Hotel water fountains, Las Vegas, Nevada, America, USA

January is one of Vegas' quietest months

Although Vegas is a hotbed of activity over the New Year period, January tends to be one of its quietest months due to the cold desert winter nights.

February is the start of conference season

As winter wanes, Vegas begins to warm up. Conference season begins and the nation celebrates the Super Bowl finals and Chinese New Year. The busiest time of year for casinos' sports books happens on the first Sunday in February, when the National Football League (NFL) championship game is broadcast. Meantime, Lunar New Year celebrations bring festivities at Chinatown plaza showcasing acrobats, lion dancers and martial-arts demonstrations. Key events: Super Bowl, Lunar New Year.

Join the crowds in March

March is the busiest time for conferences, and these coincide with college basketball playoffs known as "March Madness." If you're looking for crowds, this is when to find them, otherwise this is not the best time to visit: room and car-rental rates go through the roof. Key events: St. Patrick's Day, March Madness.

April means spring break

April days are sunny and temperate in this neck of the desert, making it a nice time to visit. It's also spring break – the college kids hit Vegas in April and they hit it hard. Downtown casinos feel a bit like dorms as they fill with excited co-eds. Rooms fill fast, so if this is when you're planning to visit, book well in advance. Stick with high-end accommodations to avoid the frat party. Key events: Viva Las Vegas , City of Lights Jazz Festival .

Couple Driving in a Convertible Car at Night in Las Vegas, USA

There are lots of exciting events in May

May is one of the busiest months of the year for Las Vegas, with the heat not yet unbearable, and plenty of exciting events on the calendar. Vegas Uncork'd brings top chefs for grand dinners and cooking demos, while the serious players head to the tables for tournaments at the start of the World Series of Poker. It runs into July and the prize money is in the millions. Key events: Vegas Uncork'd, Cinco de Mayo, World Series of Poker , Electric Daisy Carnival .

June is when it starts to get really hot in Vegas

Summer is here and things are starting to heat up on the Strip, figuratively and literally – it gets really, really hot. Restaurant week offers showy three-course meals at steeply discounted prices. Key event: Las Vegas Restaurant Week .

Room rates tend to be lower in July

Midsummer is one of the worst times of the year to hit the desert in terms of heat, but that means you're often able to snag a cool deal on room rates. On Independence day, Fourth of July, expect spectacular fireworks after dark on the Strip, a hot lineup of live music and DJs at nightclubs and casinos, sizzling hot sidewalks, and rapidly melting yard-long margaritas. Key event : Fourth of July.

August is so hot, it's best to stay indoors

Like July, August often offers discounted room rates as a trade-off for the desert's sweltering temperatures: perfect, if you plan on spending most of your time indoors. Key event: Def Con .

September is a quieter month in Vegas

Temperate September is relatively quiet for Vegas, and shoulder-season airfares make it a good time to consider planning a visit.

People take part in a parade walking in front of a low-bed truck. There are rainbow flags and motifs flying everywhere

There are fun events in October

October strikes a nice balance between milder temperatures and a fun-filled calendar, including the Pride Parade and Festival. Halloween is particularly festive with haunted houses, masquerade and fetish fantasy balls, ghoulish outdoor bases, and fantastic freak fests. Off the Strip the Rise Festival celebrates light, music, the earth, and its people. Key events : Nascar Fall Weekend , Rise Festival , Las Vegas BikeFest, Halloween, Las Vegas Pride .

November can mean more conventions

As things start to cool down in earnest, Vegas' second "convention season" of the year kicks in. You'll either find good rates and plenty of hotel availability, or prices will be high and you'll struggle to find rooms. Key event: Aviation Nation air show.

It's chilly at night in December

By December, winter has arrived in the desert and nights, particularly, can become bitterly cold. New Year's Eve brings the party with headliner bands and fireworks. Key events: National Finals Rodeo , Christmas Day, New Year's Eve.

You may also like: Best things to do in Las Vegas: 17 top experiences The 8 best day trips from Las Vegas Top neighborhoods to explore in Las Vegas

This article was first published February 2021 and updated April 2022

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

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

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

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

Helicopter over the Strip, Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas in a day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas 2-day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marquee Nightclub, Las Vegas bachelor trip

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

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

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

Las Vegas 3-day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Venetian Hotel, must-do in Las Vegas itinerary

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

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

Las Vegas 4-day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas 5-day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paris Eiffel Tower, 7 day itinerary Las Vegas

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

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

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

Valley of Fire, what to do in Vegas for the weekend

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

Las Vegas 7-day itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How many days do you need in Las Vegas?

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

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

Ascen Aynat

Why You Shouldn’t Miss a Trip to Las Vegas This Year

Highlights for 2024 include new restaurants at fontainebleau las vegas and micro-residencies at the art house beverly theater..

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Multiple pools with blue and white umbrellas

This year, hit the pool at new spots like Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

Photo by Connie Zhou

The city that bills itself as the Entertainment Capital of the World is living up to its name, having hosted its first-ever Super Bowl in February and its first Formula One race in November 2023. Add to the mix several new hotel openings plus a bevy of new restaurants, bars, and other new attractions, and it seems like Las Vegas has some serious momentum.

Those good vibes are set to continue well into the summer and beyond. Sin City is careening into pool party season, and several major music festivals are on the upcoming schedule. The Arts District, on the southwest edges of downtown, continues to evolve as the city’s most popular and most creative neighborhood. And railway company Brightline just broke ground on a high-speed train that will deliver visitors from suburban Los Angeles to the South Strip in about two hours.

Here are some of the most exciting openings, changes, and must-dos across Las Vegas this spring and summer.

Skyscraper and white building with the word "Fonatainebleau" at night

Fontainebleau Las Vegas is the sister property of Fontainebleau Miami Beach.

Photo by Mark Mediana

New hotels to check into

Fontainebleau las vegas.

The 2023-opened Fontainebleau Las Vegas , on the Las Vegas Strip between Encore and Sahara, has 3,644 rooms and cost about $3.7 billion to build. The hotel opened last December and includes 76 suites—collectively branded as Fontainebleau Fleur de Lis—which occupy the top five floors of the 67-story tower and feature billiards tables, wellness rooms, and custom Italian bedding. It has nearly two dozen restaurants, including Alan Yau’s Chyna Club and Ethan Funke’s Mother Wol; its swanky pool deck, LIV Beach, opened in April.

Durango Casino & Resort

On the outskirts of the Las Vegas Valley, in the rapidly developing Durango neighborhood on the southwest side of the city, Durango Casino & Resort has proven to be a huge hit with the locals, who visit in droves every weekend. The 15-floor hotel tower has 209 modern and spacious rooms. The real draws, however, are the casino floor and the top-notch food choices, which include Nicco’s Prime Cuts & Fresh Fish steak house, upscale Mexican joint Mijo, and a food court named “Eat Your Heart Out” (it goes by EYHO) with several cult-favorites, such as the Ai Pono Hawaiian street food café.

Its pool deck, Bel-Aire Backyard , has proven to be an even bigger hit than anticipated. “The pool has morphed into something we didn’t think we’d see,” Durango Casino & Resort general manager Dave Horn said. “People love hanging out back there. It’s a place to be seen.”

The restaurants to plan a trip around

For Esther’s Kitchen ’s first six years, chef James Trees operated the Italian eatery out of a tiny space on California Street. But in March 2024, Trees moved the fan-favorite joint around the corner to an anchor location on the corner of California and Main streets in the Arts District. The new spot is nearly three times the size with a new-and-expanded menu—thanks to a significantly larger kitchen—and has a private second-story cocktail bar that is expected to open this summer.

Elsewhere around town, the Las Vegas outpost of Brooklyn-born Peter Lugar Steak House in Caesars Palace has gotten rave reviews since it opened in November 2023. Mandalay Bay’s Orla , a Mediterranean restaurant from Michael Mina that opened in January, seems to be on everyone’s list for best meal of the year, with dishes such as sizzling king crab legs and filet mignon kebab. And for some authentic escargot, head to French restaurant LPM at the Cosmopolitan, which opened in November 2023.

Two restaurants of note opened in February 2024 inside Fashion Show Mall: Emmitt’s and Happy Camper . The first, owned by former NFL running back Emmitt Smith, serves steak and seafood in an upscale, business casual environment. Happy Camper has a more laid-back vibe; the entire restaurant is designed to look and feel like a campground, and giant portions of pizzas and wings come out on platters intended to inspire sharing.

Large dome with a ripple effect displayed at night

The Sphere is the world’s largest spherical structure.

Photo by ByDroneVideos/Shutterstock

New art and other attractions

Las Vegas lacked an art-house cinema until the Beverly Theater , located on the outskirts of downtown, opened in March 2023. The space functions as a traditional movie theater showcasing independent films (complete with a sophisticated projector and sound system), as well as an intimate performing arts and live music venue. In April the Beverly launched shorter artist-in-residence sessions called “micro-residencies” with three weekends of performances by Australian singer/songwriter Julia Jacklin.

Kip Kelly, the theater’s founding creative director, described the theater’s programming as “grassroots” and said there’s nothing else like it in the city.

“Whether it’s a first-run indie release, an old movie we think will be fun to watch with friends again, a concert, or an author reading, we make all the [programming] decisions from right here in downtown Las Vegas,” he wrote to Afar in a text message. “We make sure our finger is always on the pulse of what’s happening, and we build our program around that rhythm.”

Other new attractions revolve more squarely around the Strip. The Sphere , the giant entertainment venue wrapped in 1.2 million LED lights behind Venetian Las Vegas is home to several new concerts this summer, including Phish and Dead & Co. (the latest iteration of The Grateful Dead). At City Center, a digital art installation space named the Arte Museum opened in 2023. Exhibits here include a room with a giant crashing wave; in another room, guest drawings of animals come to life in a digital jungle.

And at the Luxor, on the South Strip, two new attractions are revitalizing a property that had fallen into obscurity. Play Playground , which opened in January, is a bar with Double Dare -style games and obstacles. The other is immersive show Particle Ink , which kicked off earlier this month and combines real-live human actors with amplified reality characters projected on objects and walls.

Essential cultural happenings

First, sports. The WNBA season kicks off in June and the Vegas team—the Aces—come in as two-time defending champions. Formula One is back again in November. And on the distant horizon, there’s baseball: The city is razing the Tropicana to build a new stadium for the relocating Oakland A’s.

On the festival front, fans are already gearing up for Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), the largest electronic dance music festival in North America. The annual show, organized by promoter and distributor Insomniac, attracts about 100,000 people each year and is held at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in mid-May. September will see two separate music festivals: the two-day I Heart Radio , held at T-Mobile Arena; and the three-day Life Is Beautiful , held in the heart of downtown. Neither festival has announced lineups for 2024, but both strive to put together eclectic and pop offerings: Last year’s performers included Lenny Kravitz and Foo Fighters at “I Heart” and Cigarettes After Sex, ODESZA, and Kendrick Lamar at “Life Is Beautiful.”

In October, drive 45 minutes southwest of Las Vegas to Jean Dry Lake Beds in Sloan, Nevada, for the Rise Lantern Festival . The weekend-long homage to spirituality and wellness is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2024; it ends with participants lighting thousands of lanterns aloft into the night sky.

Nightlife must-sees

Several new watering holes in Las Vegas are worth a visit. Status , a new minority-owned champagne lounge, opened at the Grand Canal Shoppes inside the Venetian in late April of 2024. Stray Pirate opened in October 2023 and is designed to feel like the inside of a pirate ship, complete with (digital) “wildlife” swimming past fake windows. November 2023 brought the arrival of Liquid Diet —the bar opened in an old garage, and its sparse decorations and animal skulls feel like a setting from Breaking Bad . The night’s menu is written on brown butcher paper and hung from a clothesline behind the bar.

Elsewhere in town, behind Resorts World Las Vegas and attached to the Thrive cannabis dispensary, a bar named Smoke & Mirrors opened in March and is Las Vegas’s first cannabis consumption lounge. Guests can choose among flower (served with a bong or rolling papers), prerolls, or cannabis-infused mocktails; drinks can be made with 2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg of THC in every order.

Fly into . . .

Terminal 3 at Harry Reid International Airport (formerly known as McCarran). The Vegas home of United and Alaska Airlines is the newer of the two terminals (it opened in 2012), featuring wider walkways and amenities such as cupcake vending machines and seating benches with USB ports. Travelers can take an underground train to the expanded Centurion Lounge from American Express, which opened in Terminal 1 in 2020.

StarTribune

9 reasons you won't recognize las vegas on your next trip.

The most common refrain you'll hear from anyone who's been to Las Vegas — besides "what happens there stays there" — is how it's nothing like it used to be.

Vegas has been evolving since the very first pair of dice rolled down a craps table like desert tumbleweed. And it just keeps changing, so much so that it's virtually impossible for a Vegas experience to repeat itself.

Just since my visit in February, I can count on two hands the restaurants and bars that have opened, and at least one iconic resort, Tropicana, has closed . Vegas is the Snapchat of destinations; as soon as you create a memory there, it vanishes.

Here are some things to know about everything that's new in Vegas.

The Sphere is a new concert arena with what may be the highest-resolution screen in the world.

The Sphere is as cool as you think, and you don't need to spend thousands to get in.

A glowing orb recently popped up on the Las Vegas skyline. Getting inside should be high on your list.

The Sphere is an immersive concert arena with a 160,000-square-foot LED screen. It opened last year with a series of U2 concerts, with tickets hovering in the thousands of dollars. This weekend's Phish shows and next month's Dead & Co. residency are hot tickets, too.

There's another way to experience the world's largest spherical structure and what might be the highest-resolution screen of all time: Buy a $79-$119 ticket to the Sphere Experience. Once inside you can interact with AI talking robots, grab a drink and take a seat in the theater for a visually stunning film by Darren Aronofsky, "Postcard From Earth." You'll feel the wind in your hair as you soar over mountains, go on safari and hurtle toward outer space. (Really, there's a wind machine.)

The new desert-chic Durango Casino & Resort is 20 minutes off the Las Vegas Strip, and has an unusual amenity: windows to the outside world from the casino floor.

There are new resorts.

It took two decades to build, but the Fontainebleau finally opened its ornate doors in December. The tallest resort on the Strip gleams inside and out. With more than 30 bars and restaurants, loads of public art and high-end shopping, you could almost forget that it's a casino-hotel at its core.

Across the street you'll also find Resorts World Las Vegas. This collection of three Hilton brands under one roof — and several intriguing eateries, including an Asian food hall — opened in 2021 and still feels shiny and new, with a sprawling pool complex.

A 20-minute drive from the Strip, the desert-chic Durango opened at the end of last year. The main draw is the midcentury-modern casino floor, but there's also a handful of upscale restaurants and a high-end food hall, plus a tasteful pool area.

The new Fontainebleau resort's casino occupies a 42-foot-high atrium.

And they look a lot different than the casinos you might remember.

The days of flashing neon marquees, cave-like casinos and stale-cigarette-scented carpets are in the past. Las Vegas' newest resorts are clean, airy and fresh, and don't try to trick you into forgetting what time it is. The Fontainebleau installed its casino in an atrium under 42-foot ceilings, bucking the convention that gamblers will play longer if the space feels small and intimate.

At the Durango, the casino is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and indoor-outdoor dining spaces. Flooding the slots with natural light might not sound that remarkable, but in Las Vegas, it is.

Some of the older casinos are getting a modern refresh, too.

Mandalay Bay is updating its rooms and adding adult-only mini-golf. Rio is undergoing a $350 million renovation; so far its exterior has been wrapped in programmable LED lighting, and it has added a food hall. The volcano show on the front lawn of the Mirage is about to be replaced with a guitar-shaped tower to represent new owner Hard Rock International.

The new Carousel Bar at the Plaza in downtown Las Vegas.

Even smoking is being reconsidered.

Downtown, the Plaza Hotel & Casino's iconic twinkling facade was transformed last summer into the circular Carousel Bar, an outdoor cocktail lounge with tiki-style drinks and retro touches, along with outdoor video poker machines. The Plaza also unveiled a nonsmoking and "social media-friendly" gaming space.

The 2,500-square-foot zone features selfie-bait backdrops and, most important, a separate air filtration system. (On the Strip, the only completely smoke-free casino resort is the Park MGM.)

It's an effort to make Vegas appeal to the next generation of gamblers.

Millennials and Gen-Z'ers don't spend as much time or money at the slots and tables. That doesn't mean they don't gamble; it just looks different, with more app-based options. Casinos are getting in on the action with mobile apps and sports betting.

Expect casino resorts to roll out more diverse amenities, from high-end bars and bowling alleys to ever-more-elaborate pool complexes and throwback musical acts.

This year's lineup for Fontainebleau's new 3,800-seat theater is tinged with '90s nostalgia, with Third Eye Blind, Hootie & the Blowfish and the Smashing Pumpkins. Kylie Minogue is in residency at the Venetian; Blink-182 and Jodeci are playing Vegas this summer; and My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy co-headline October's When We Were Young festival. Of course, if Wayne Newton, Donny Osmond, Rod Stewart or Barry Manilow are more your jam, they're all in residency, too.

Celebrities are doing more than performing.

Check out one of these new venues attributed to A-listers. Blake Shelton just opened a honkytonk, Ole Red. Bruno Mars is behind the cocktail lounge Pinky Ring at the Bellagio. An "immersive art experience," Shaq's Fantasy Lab opened last fall, courtesy of the basketball star. And Van Halen's Sammy Hagar will launch Sammy's Island poolside at Palms next month.

A spread from the new California-centric Sundry food hall.

The food scene just keeps getting better.

If you thought Vegas was the epicenter of fine dining because of Wolfgang Puck, then you're due for another visit. While celebrity chefs are prolific on the Strip, some of the buzziest restaurants of the moment don't even belong to Food Network stars. Those would be Los Angeles chef Evan Funke's Mother Wolf, the famed Brooklyn steakhouse Peter Luger, Texas-based fast-food chain Whataburger, and Florentine sandwich shop All'Antico Vinaio.

Buffets have been sidelined by globe-spanning food halls. Resorts World's Famous Foods imports Michelin-recognized Ah Chun Shandong Dumpling from Hong Kong and Boon Tong Kee's Hainanese chicken rice from Singapore. Get Korean fried chicken from Seoul Bird at Proper Eats Food Hall at Aria, and mezcal cocktails from Ghost Donkey in the Cosmopolitan's Block 16 food hall. Grab a vodka slice from Prince Street Pizza in the Durango's Eat Your Heart Out hall. And at the new Sundry food hall, sample dhaba-style dishes, tacos, hand rolls and fried chicken from award-winning California chefs.

Coed wellness room at Fontainebleu's Lapis Spa, which also has a snow flurry-making machine among its amenities.

Minnesotans will find something familiar.

No Minnesota chefs, as far as we can tell, have opened their own concepts on the Strip — yet. But Minnesotans will find another way to get a taste of home: snow and ice.

Yes, cold plunges are all the rage in spas everywhere. But a snow shower was something I wasn't expecting. Fontainebleau's Lapis Spa has a 14-degree flurry-making machine in one of several rooms themed to natural elements. The Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars has an Arctic Ice room.

Meanwhile, there are a number of "ice bars" on the strip, where you'll don a parka, cuddle up on a fur blanket and take shots from ice glasses on skis. When the Las Vegas summer reaches triple-digit temps, that's where I'll be.

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Las Vegas Raiders NFL draft picks 2024: Round-by-round selections

The Las Vegas Raiders went in a different direction with a new general manager and head coach this offseason, and the new regime will begin to make their imprint at the 2024 NFL draft, hosted in Detroit, April 25-27 .

The Raiders spent most of last season led by interim head coach Antonio Pierce after Josh McDaniels was fired following Las Vegas' loss to the Lions last season. Pierce was hired into the full-time role and will work with new GM Tom Telesco to reshape the Las Vegas roster, which is in need of a quarterback, to build on the 8-9 finish last season.

Here is a look at the Raiders' eight draft picks in their 2024 NFL draft class:

Las Vegas Raiders draft picks 2024:

Round 1, Pick 13 overall: Brock Bowers, tight end, Georgia
Round 2, Pick 44 overall: Jackson Powers-Johnson, center, Oregon
Round 3, Pick 77 overall: Delmar Glaze, offensive tackle, Maryland
Round 4, Pick 112 overall: Decamerion Richardson, cornerback, Mississippi State
Round 5, Pick 148 overall: Tommy Eichenberg, linebacker, Ohio State
Round 6, Pick 208 overall: Dylan Laube, running back, New Hampshire
Round 7, Pick 223 overall: Trey Taylor, safety, Air Force
Round 7, Pick 229 overall: MJ Devonshire, cornerback, Pittsburgh

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

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Oct 14, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (58)

'Violent' Jackson Powers-Johnson Drafted to Las Vegas Raiders with 44th Pick: Contract Details

'Violent' Jackson Powers-Johnson Drafted to Las Vegas Raiders with 44th Pick in NFL Draft: Contract Details, Fit With Las Vegas

Author: Bri Amaranthus

In this story:

Center Jackson Powers-Johnson was drafted No. 44 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2024 NFL Draft. The former Oregon Duck is versatile on the offensive line with a chance to make an immediate impact for Las Vegas.

Jackson Powers-Johnson becomes highest-drafted center in Oregon football history.

FIT WITH RAIDERS

Powers-Johnson could develop into a reliable long-term starter for Las Vegas, who is looking to solidify their offensive line, particularly at tackle. The Raiders re-signed center Andre James this offseason. James has been with the Raiders for five seasons.

Oct 14, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (58)

Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

In an exclusive interview with DucksDigest 's Bri Amaranthus, he said that no matter what position he is tasked with playing in the NFL, his "violent" approach will help him be successful.

"I play violently and I think that translates to the league really well," Powers-Johnson said.

His four-year contract is projected to be worth $8,767,762, with an estimated $3,196,552 signing bonus.

PRO COMPARISONS

Powers-Johnson was compared to Quinn Meinerz by NFL.com, who has played guard for the Denver Broncos since being selected with the No. 98 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

JPJ left a distinguished legacy at the University of Oregon , including his sense of humor. At the Senior Bowl, JPJ was warned of "poachers" who ask for his autograph, only to turn around and sell it.

That didn’t set right with JPJ, who said he normally loves signing gear for fans. For these “poachers” JPJ chose a different name every day to sign and tried to make it as silly as possible.

An ode to Saturday Night Live's "Jeopardy'' skit, "JPJ'' signed one football as "Turd Ferguson" (if you know you know ) and his uncle couldn't help but purchase the ball from the poacher.

COLLEGE CAREER

“JPJ” set milestones as the first Duck and Pac-12 player to win the Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation’s best center. His accomplishments include being named a unanimous All-American, with first-team honors from the AFCA, Associated Press, FWAA, Sporting News, and Walter Camp.

Powers-Johnson excelled throughout the season, starting the first 13 games before opting out of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl to prepare for the NFL Draft. According to Pro Football Focus, he led all FBS centers in both overall and run-blocking grades and was second in pass-blocking. Remarkably, he allowed just one pressure and no sacks in 471 pass-blocking opportunities.

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Why the Raiders bucked bigger needs and added dynamic tight end Brock Bowers

AUBURN, ALABAMA - SEPTEMBER 30: Brock Bowers #19 of the Georgia Bulldogs reacts after scoring the go-ahead touchdown against the Auburn Tigers during the fourth quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium on September 30, 2023 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders didn’t take Phillip Buchanan, Fabian Washington, JaMarcus Russell, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Rolando McClain, D.J. Hayden, Gareon Conley, Clelin Ferrell , Johnathan Abram , Damon Arnette or Alex Leatherwood in the first round Thursday night.

While the selection of Georgia tight end Brock Bowers with the 13th pick was a bit of a head-scratcher, no one is questioning his talent or comparing him to all of the franchise’s huge swings-and-misses in the first round the last couple of decades. The Raiders had bigger needs at offensive tackle and cornerback, but general manager Tom Telesco said they “zeroed in on” Bowers as he fell out of the top 10 as more and more quarterbacks went off the board .

The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Bowers was one of the most electric players in college football, averaging 14.5 yards per catch and 10.2 yards per carry in his three years at Georgia (finishing with 2,538 yards and 26 touchdowns). He is a matchup nightmare, thanks to his explosiveness out of cuts, route running, speed and ball-snatching ability.

NFL Draft 2024 tracker: Live blog, pick-by-pick grades and analysis Big board best available: Who’s left from Dane Brugler’s Top 300? Draft pick grades: Nick Baumgardner, Scott Dochterman rate the selections Full draft order: Team picks for all 257 selections “The Athletic Football Show”: Watch live reaction to the draft

“We’re looking to add more playmakers to the offense, and they come in all shapes and sizes,” Telesco said. “He was a high-level player in college, he’s 21, still very young. … He’s got some natural football skill combined with some high-level athletic ability and speed, so we’re really happy to have him.”

Raiders draft Brock Bowers: How he fits, pick grade and scouting intel

If Raiders fans thought they were shocked Thursday night, Bowers was speechless.

The tight end from Georgia was watching the draft from his family’s home in Fairfield, Calif., and didn’t know who was going to draft him as he fell out of the top 10. But the Raiders?

“I wasn’t really sure what was happening,” Bowers said on a conference call after he was selected.

Run the tape 🎥 #RaiderNation — Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 26, 2024

The top six quarterbacks were drafted in the first 12 picks, which meant there were none for the Raiders to take and that Bowers was still on the board. It also meant the Raiders had their choice of any defensive player in the country, as none had been taken in a draft that wound up opening with 14 straight offensive players selected .

The option of taking the best defensive player didn’t give Telesco or coach Antonio Pierce any pause.

“It was a consensus pick,” Telesco said. “Besides being a great player, Brock has that edge, works hard and is a great person.”

So, the Raiders picked the best tight end on the board for the second straight year. If you thought Bowers was shocked by the pick, what about Michael Mayer , who was coming off a pretty solid rookie season? His upside is now the No. 2 tight end in two tight-end sets.

(And that’s the sad reality of regime changes for players — Telesco and Pierce didn’t draft Mayer.)

“We love Michael Mayer … I love Michael Mayer,” Telesco said. “He’s a really good player, and he is going to take another big jump this year. But you get a chance to just add another dimension to the offense.”

The Raiders will definitely use a lot of 12 personnel (one running back, two receivers and two tight ends), as new offensive coordinator Luke Getsy used it seventh most of any team last season when he was calling plays for the Chicago Bears .

Bowers loved it when Georgia had that grouping on the field.

“Two big-bodied mismatches,” Bowers said. “It kinda puts (defenses) in a bind.”

It definitely gives quarterback Gardner Minshew some great weapons to work with along with Davante Adams , Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker . Trading up for Jayden Daniels was always a pipe dream, and he went second to the Washington Commanders . Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. was the surprise fourth quarterback taken — at No. 8 by the Atlanta Falcons , who just signed Kirk Cousins to a big free-agent deal. Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy went at No. 10 to the Minnesota Vikings , and the Denver Broncos grabbed Oregon’s Bo Nix at No. 12.

While there was some interest in Penix by the Raiders, the team believed there was a sizable gap between the first three quarterback prospects (Caleb Williams, Daniels and Drake Maye) and the next three, per league sources, so it’s hard to see them picking Penix if he were there at 13.

Telesco was asked how hard he tried to move up in the draft, and he answered, “Not particularly hard.”

The Raiders can still draft a quarterback in the next six rounds this weekend, but none of those guys seem close to being able to play next season. So, Minshew will have to beat out Aidan O’Connell at training camp, and based on the $15 million guaranteed that Telesco gave the former Jacksonville Jaguars , Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts quarterback, that is the expectation.

And Minshew, assuming the offensive line holds up, is going to love Bowers. Former Alabama coach Nick Saban went against the tight end plenty, and he picked Bowers to have the biggest impact immediately of any player in the draft.

“Brock Bowers is a guy who’s a mismatch player at tight end,” Saban said on ESPN this week. “He’s a great receiver as an H-back, a good enough blocker. I think he’s going to be lightning in the NFL .”

If fans and Bowers are shocked by the pick, that’s fine with Telesco.

“We usually don’t put up billboards about the players we like,” he said, smiling.

(Photo: Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images)

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Vic Tafur is a senior writer for The Athletic covering the Las Vegas Raiders and the NFL. He previously worked for 12 years at the San Francisco Chronicle and also writes about boxing and mixed martial arts. Follow Vic on Twitter @ VicTafur

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