Everything You Would Ever Want to Do in Las Vegas

Some of you may know that before I traveled to Las Vegs the first time, it was the last place on earth that I had a desire to visit.  Friends and acquaintances kept saying that I had to go, at least once, I would inevitably reply no way, why would I want to waste my time in a kitschy city where the only things to do were party and gamble.  Then I got scammed into my first trip to Vegas.. I soon learned there were about 1,000 attractions in Las Vegas, and there was literally so much stuff to do in Las Vegas.  Yes, there are tons of things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble. In fact, there are more things to do in Las Vegas than any other city I have ever visited.  

You may wonder, really?  What kinds of things? Well there are animal things, and outdoor things;. adventurous things, adrenaline pumping things, entertaining things, and relaxing things.  There are even cultural things, and educational things to do in Las Vegas.  

You may also wonder, in a city based on gambling, glitz and luxury, isn’t everything there is to do expensive?  While there are certainly some attractions in Las Vegas that are expensive, there are also a whole load of free things to do in Las Vegas.  

After a few more trips, and finding stuff to do in Las Vegas that I really loved, I realized a whole lot of people who thought what I used to think.  There was nothing for them in Vegas. That was when I decided to create a list of awesome stuff to do in Las Vegas. It began as 101 things to do in Las Vegas other than gambling.  But I kept on adding, and I am not even sure how many things are on our list now. I would like to think it is THE definitive list of things to do in Las Vegas, but every time I go, I find more things!  

You can download the original list of 101 right now, or read on to get them all!

Click me to get your downloadable list of 101 Things to do in Las Vegas!!

But first, if you are planning your first trip to Las Vegas, make sure you read our Las Vegas First Timers Guide.  It gives you important insider info about unexpected costs, where you may get scammed, how to get around, and where to find a bargain.

If you are going to try gambling for the first time, be sure to read our tips prior to your First Gaming Experience to get an idea how different games work, and what has the best odds.

Of course, maybe you prefer to look at it the other way, and prefer to know what NOT to do in Vegas…And, if you happen to be LGBT, you will certainly want a heads up on Gay friendly places in Las Vegas. 

BUT, if you just want all those amazing things to do in Las Vegas, read on.  Or, use the jump links below to get to the sections you want to see!

Animals

Animal Attractions in Las Vegas

 Honestly, animals may be one of the last things you might think about when planning a trip to Las Vegas.  But, there are several different places to get up close to the animals.

Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary

Located right in the city, the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary is home to several varieties of water fowl, such as ducks and swans, and other, more exotic birds, like parakeets, ostriches, macaws, and peacocks.  It is not only birds that make a home at Gilcrease.  There are also donkeys, llamas, tortoises, and goats, as well as a mule-deer.

Flamingo Resort Flamingo Habitat**  FREE

There are places you can get up-close experience with wildlife right on the strip.  The Caesers Flamingo’s Flamingo Habitat.  (I really like saying that,)  is my favorite place on the strip, and definitely my favorite thing to do in Las Vegas besides gamble! The flamingos are beautiful, and it is such a peaceful tropical setting. For more information, and our fun photos, see our portfolio Fun With Las Vegas Flamingo Flamingos.

Seaquest Interactive Aquarium

An interactive aquarium for the entire family, featuring lots of sea creatures, as well as tropical birds, amphibians and reptiles.  Exhibits include a shark lagoon and pirate island, as well as some that are zone specific, like California Coast and Caribbean Cove.  Swimming with stingrays is a featured experience.

The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay

The other big name aquarium in town, the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, features a walk through section, and 2,00 different animals, including, rays, sea turtles, jellyfish, and of course, sharks.  There is also a rare golden crocodile.  In 2017, a Polar Journey, Interactive Adventure was also opened.

Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden

White tigers and dolphins have a home at Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden, at the Mirage.  They currently boast a new baby dolphin in their aquariums.  There are number of possible experiences available, including an option to work as a dolphin trainer, or paint with the dolphins. (I was not impressed..)

The Silverton Aquarium**  FREE

The Silverton Aquarium has been named the best free attraction in Las Vegas by different sources over a number of years.  The aquarium is a whopping 18.000 gallons of water.  There are live mermaid swims at noon, and a marine biologist answers visitor questions during feedings.  Silverton is adjacent to the Bass Pro Shop, with more aquariums.

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Botanicals

Garden Centered Attractions in Las Vegas

If animals are not really your thing, but you do want to see the flora, there are a couple of outstanding choices in Las Vegas.  

Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden

The Ethel M Gardens are known for their beautiful displays of native succulents, and other drought-tolerant plants that thrive in a desert environment.  It is the largest such garden in the state, and one of the largest in the world, featuring over 300 plant species decoratively cultivated over 4 acres. 

Conservatory at the Bellagio**  FREE!

The Conservatory at the Bellagio has become widely known in recent years as one of the absolutely free things to do in Las Vegas.  Hundreds of visitors go through the conservatory each day.   It is beautiful, and kid friendly. We visited and had a lot of fun with the camera.  For more information, and to see our stunning photos from Bellagio Conservatory, see our gallery, Beautiful Bellagio Botanicals. 

Cactus Joe’s Blue Diamond Nursery

While a plant store may seem a strange recommendation for things to do in Las Vegas, many visitors go out of their way to visit the store. Every type of succulent you can imagine can be found, plus a few you have probably never seen. The gardens are set up to be a pleasurable experience, and there is even a stone labrynth to wind your way through.

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 Views

Great Lookout Attractions in Las Vegas

Getting an amazing view from above is one of the most popular things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, especially at night, when the lights are in their full lit glory.  

The High Roller

The High Roller at the Linq rises to an amazing 550 feet, actually reaching higher than both the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer.  It takes 30 minutes to complete a full round of the High Roller.  The wheel has 29 cars, each having near 360 degrees of windows, for awe-inspiring views in all directions.

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower at the Paris Resort has become one of the iconic sights along the strip.  Standing 46 stories, it replicates the Paris landmark at half scale.  Ride to the top in a high-speed glass elevator, for a 360 degree view over the strip and beyond. The observation deck has been referred to as the most romantic spot on the strip.

The Stratosphere

The Strastosphere Tower climbs to an amazing 1,149 feet in the air, claiming the title of the highest free-standing observation tower in the United States.  From its location on the end of the strip the entire Las Vegas Valley, can be experienced.  There are indoor and outdoor observation decks, which have been voted the best place to view the city.  

Hot Air Balloon Rides

Get a completely different perspective of the desert and the strip. Arrange this one of a kind trip through Vegas Hot Air Sin City Balloon Rides LLC.

The Helicopter Tour

A nighttime helicopter tour is a unique chance to see the strip from above, with the lights gleaming.  Generally guests are placed according to size and weight for even load distribution, so you might not get to sit next to your best friend, but you can communicate through the head sets

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Skyfalls

Adrenaline Pumping Attractions in Las Vegas

Adrenaline has become the hormone of choice, for extreme sport enthusiasts.  Las Vegas may be the cream of the crop for adrenaline pumping options.   This batch is all about dropping from high places, one way or another.

Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas

Maybe you don’t think of a water park experience as being in the running for an adrenaline junkie.  Wet ‘n’ Wild Las Vegas may surprise you.  While there is a lazy river and waterfalls, for reserved guests, there are also the 25 slides and rides, such as The Tornado, catapults riders into the air, and through a 45 foot wide funnel.

Buffalo Bill’s, Adventure Canyon, Desperado

Adventure Canyon, at the Buffalo Bills is a log ride unlike any other.  Passengers carry electronic weapons with them, to shoot over 300 targets, while the log canoe twists and turns through the canyon, and takes 35 foot vertical plummets.  They also have Desperado, one of the world’s tallest roller coasters, with its sheer drops.

Adventure Dome, at Circus Circus

Adventuredome, in the Circus Circus Resort is the place to get the full carnival or circus experience, complete with rides.  There are family experience rides, junior rides, and thrill rides.  Canyon Blaster, and the twisting and turning, El Loco, are favorites. An old-school midway, arcade games, and clown performances, complete the atmosphere.

Big Apple Coaster

The Big Apple Coaster, at New York New York Resort, is known for featuring the world’s first 180 degree “heartline” twist.  The Big Apple soars to speeds of 67 miles per hour, winding through the replicated New York City landmarks.  Just for fun, the coaster station replicates a New York City subway station.  For information see the Caesers website.

Stratosphere Thrill Rides

The Stratosphere may reign supreme in the realm of adrenaline rushing rides in Las Vegas.  All based at the top of the tower, three ride choices give thrill seekers some crazy options, all but tossing them off the tower. 

Stratosphere Sky Jump

As if the rides were not enough, Sky Jump DOES allow visitors to throw themselves off the side of the tower. One of our friends tried the Sky Jump, and the rides, and LOVED them.  Check out her experiences on the Stratosphere Sky Jump!

Ziplining Over the Crowds

Ziplining is a hot activity around the world, in all kinds of settings, with all manner of scenery.  Vegas has 3 different options. Ziplining over the crowds gives you an audience, so don’t look scared! Slotzilla is run over the crowds on Fremont Street, and Fly Linq passes over the Linq Promenade.

Ziplining Over a Resort

For something a lot higher in the air, with a different twist, try Voodoo Zipline, at the Rio Casino and Resort. You will soar up to 33MPS from the Marquaade Tower to the Ipanema Tower. As a special treat at Voodoo, riders return to the starting point backwards.  I don’t know if I would call that a treat!

Ziplining Down a Mountain

To go even faster, up to 60 MPH, down the side of a mountain, you will want to try Flightlinez Bootleg. They have a 4 line course, so you will actually take multiple rides as you descend back into the canyon from the mountain tip.

Skydiving

If you really want to fall from the sky, and have that feeling of complete freedom and flying, skydiving might be the way to go.  LasVegas has both indoor and outdoor skydiving options.  For outdoor tandem jumps, try Vegas Extreme Skydiving, Skydive Las Vegas, or Sin City Skydiving.

Indoor Skydiving

For indoor jumps, there are also option.  By the way, indoor jumps are not really jumps.  It is a simulation using forced air, and it is a fairly safe choice.   The main place to experience indoor skydiving is Vegas Indoor Skydiving.

Gravaday Extreme Sports Trampoline Park

Featuring over 25.000 feet of trampolines, including angled wall trampolines, Gravaday lets visitors really feel like they are flying.  Activities and courses include Extreme Dodgeball, Aerial Dunk, and Ninja Obstacle Course.

Zero Gravity

A rare opportunity to take a crash course in aeronautics, and the dynamics of gravity.  After class work, participants are able to explore different zero gravity environments, similar to those astronauts encounter in the Space Shuttle.  It comes with a price, but it is a once in a lifetime experience. Offered by the Zero Gravity Corporation.

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Driving Experiences

Las Vegas Attractions that Put You Behind the Wheel

Love the open highway?  No where is the highway more open, than in the desert southwest.  Of course most of your driving options in the city give you opportunity to drive something that you might never again get to drive.  

Rent a Harley

There is nothing like being on the highway, with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair.  You can savor this experience, by renting yourself a Harley Davidson, and taking it on the road.  Bet that never crossed your mind when you thought of stuff to do in Las Vegas! Check out the rules and regulations on the Las Vegas Harley website.

Drive a Dune Buggy in the Desert

Get off the road, and onto the desert terrain, by driving a dune buggy in the Mojave.  A number of experiences and tours are offered, and there is even a night-time chase scenario.  Try Sun Buggy Las Vegas, or Las Vegas Razor Adventures.

Drive Real Race Cars

Perhaps you have always dreamed of being a Nascar driver, or racing on the speedway.  You can have that experience at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.  Full training and safety orientation is provided, and you can make that dream a reality, if only for an afternoon.  Check out  Drive Petty, or Dream Racing. 

Drive Go Karts

If you have children, Go Karts might be more up your alley.  For an indoor experience, try Pole Position Raceway.  If you would rather drive your Go Karts outdoors, try Las Vgas Mini Grand Prix.

Drive Tractors

If you love driving but crave power rather than speed, perhaps construction equipment is more up your alley.  At Dig This Las Vegas, you can drive real tractors, bulldozers, excavators and back hoes, and dig, dig dig.  With sessions starting around an hour, and running up to 3.5 hours, you can take out a lot of aggression.

Sky Combat 

Believe it or not, if you would like to take your driving experience off the road, and into the sky, there is an option for you too!.  Sky Combat Ace offers a full fighter pilot package.  You learn, and fly, with trained pilots, performing acrobatics, or combat.

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Tours and Day Trips

Touring Attractions in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the perfect base location for a multitude of day trips and tours.  Head out with a group in any direction, or get a car, and there is something amazing to see.  If you want more details and more options, check out what we call the Definitive Guide to Day Trips from Las Vegas!

Hoover Dam Tours

Hoover Dam was a miracle of construction when it was built, and an amazing testament to man’s ingenuity.  Touring Hoover is a popular day trips from Las Vegas.  Visitors get to go inside the dam, and see the huge turbines pumping out electricity.  It is both educational and inspiring.   

Death Valley National Park

Known as the lowest point on the North American Continent, Death Valley is a place like any other.  There are a multitude of different landscapes that seem almost alien. You can take a tour, or rent a car and make the trip on your own.  That is how we recommend visiting the park, and our Death Valley National Park Day Trip gives you a fabulous itinerary including several photo videos of our favorite stops.   Of course, if you plan to spend more than a day, you will need to know the 20 Cool Things to do in Death Valley!

Ghost Town Tours

 There is something oddly intriguing about the idea of walking through these abandoned remnants of past lives, in an old west ghost town.  There are several tour options that offer a ghost town experience.   One such tour is offered by Tours By Locals.  Select their Wild West Ghost Town option.

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park, is Nevada’s first, and oldest, state park, known for its bright red sandstone formations, intermingled with earth toned limestone.  It is a brilliantly hued and surreal landscape, with the remains of both petrified trees and Native petroglyphs. Our friends at Born Globals spent a day in the park, and shared their experience in the article Valley of Fire.  

Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area

Another local favorite, Red Rock Canyon is located only 15 miles to the west of Las Vegas.  Wildlife can often be found in throughout the area, including wild horses and bighorn sheep.  Taking a tour enables visitors to get off the road in and SUV or Hummer, and really see the area. 

Zion National Park

Zion has become one of the top 10 most visited National Parks in the US. It-renowned for its 2,000 feet high petrified sand dunes, gleaming in red, pink, and cream.  A day tour typically stops at sites such as Temple of Sinawava, Angels Landing, and Great White Throne , as well as the river walk, and the visitor’s center.  Or, you can follow the guidance of our friends at Practical Wanderlust, and have an amazing day of hiking in Zion.

Grand Canyon

Perhaps the grandfather of all day tours out of Sin City is the Grand Canyon Tour.   There are fantastic options, with a choice of the North Rim, the West Rim, or the South Rim.  The drive is about 4 hours, so it is an all day event, whichever option you select.  We took the South Rim tour, and made the awesome helicopter flight over the canyon.  Share our amazing experience in our story, Grand Canyon Experience. 

Goodsprings Ghost Hunt Tours

Featured on The Travel Channel program Ghost Adventures, this evening tour takes guests to the town of Goodsprings,  home of the historic Pioneer Saloon.  Bullet holes from past showdowns are still clearly visible.  After dinner, guests are provided with paranormal tracking equipment, and trained in the proper use, and the ghost hunt begins. 

Hot Springs Tours

Downstream from Hoover Dam there are hot springs that are said to have therapeutic properties.  Locals often hike to these springs in cooler months, and soak for the healing effects.  It is a very unique experience for those who come from areas with no thermal activity.

Black Canyon and Emerald Cove

Part of the National Park Service Black Canyon Water Trail, the names of these two sites make them sound enticing.  The best way to see these wonders is by kayaking on the Colorado River, starting at Willow Beach, Arizona. Rent equipment and go on your own, or take a group kayaking tour.

Gold Mine Tours

While not the only remaining gold mine in the area, the Techatticup Mine is said to be the oldest, and the richest in Nevada, and now it is the easiest to get to..  It was in operation for almost 80 years.  Now you can tour the inside of the mine, as well as ghost town that remains surrounding it.

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Sports

Sports Attractions in Las Vegas

I don’t usually think about sports when I am considering stuff to do in Las Vegas, but big name sporting events have been drawing crowds in the city for decades.

Boxing**  

Boxing champions are often made or broken in Las Vegas.  Get a first hand view of some of the biggest names in the sport.  Some of the most renowned fights in history have taken place in the ring on the strip, including Ali, Holyfield, and Tyson.  Some of our friends know a lot more about the sport, and famous matches on the strip than we do.  They share their expertise in Las Vegas Boxing is not a budget option, but it is a once in a lifetime experience.

Professional Hocky

Fancy a professional hockey game, in the midst of the desert?  Now you can do that!  The 2017-2018 season was the inaugural season for the Las Vegas Golden Knights.

Professional Basketball

Now you can pick up a Women’s National Basketball Association game in the city. The Las Vegas Aces moved from San Antonio to Vegas before the 2018 season.

Minor League Baseball

Minor league games are pretty relaxed, and feature a lot of crowd involvement and giveaways.  You can get in on the fun.  If your visit is in the spring or summer, check out the Las Vegas 51s.

College Football

If you are more of a football enthusiast, you can catch an NCAA level game throughout the fall season.  UNLV Football is just one of the NCAA caliber games you can enjoy.

Roller Derby

If you really want some fast paced action, and to see a few people get knocked around a bit, roller derby may be right up your alley.  Three different teams play in the city.   Adult league teams include The Fabulous Sin City Roller Girls, and the Atomic Rollergirls.  There is also a junior league in town, the Vegas Extra Terrestrial Skaters.

Rugby

Although Rugby does not necessarily have the following in the US that it has in some other countries, it is an intense game.  Although it only happens once a year, if your timing is right, you can enjoy the thrills of an international tournament, the USA Sevens.

Rodeo 

The rodeo may be more in line with a sport that outsiders think of when they think of Nevada.  There are smaller events in the area throughout the year, but Vegas plays host to two big rodeo events.  Check the schedules to see if your itinerary coincides with the The National Finals Rodeo, or the Professional Bull Riders Finals.

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Sporting

Sporting Attractions in Las Vegas

Golf

The vast open expanses of land in southern Nevada afford lots of space for golf courses.  Some resorts have private courses exclusively for their guests, and there are public courses available to get a round in during your visit.  Perhaps it is a bonus that the pleasant time to play golf in Vegas would be when it is too cold to play in other areas of the country. 

Indoor Golf

If indoor golf is more your style, or if your visit is during the blistering heat of summer, there are a few locations that can accommodate your need to tee off.  There is a lot of other fun to be had at many of these centers as well.  Top Golf, at the MGM Grand is one of the preferred choices.

Miniature Golf

If you are like me, miniature golf is far more fitting. There are several different options to pick up a round of mini gold in Las Vegas, but our favorite is probably Twilight Zone by Monster Mini Golf, where you place in a black light, glow in the dark environment, with all sorts of effects going on. It is creepy fun.

Bowling

Some might make the argument that bowling is not actually a sport.  Ask a professional bowler though, and you will be set straight.  Las Vegas has some really fun options for bowling, some right on the strip.  Some of the more popular places to knock a few pins down include Orleans Bowling Center, Brooklyn Bowl, and Gold Coast Bowling.

Ice Skating

Not only can you watch a live hockey game in the midst of the desert, you can also get in some time on the ice yourself.  There are at least two different centers where visitors can attend open skate time on the ice ,and now the Cosmopolitan has an ice rink right on the strip. Check for times at Las Vegas Ice, or SoBe Ice Arena.

Roller Skating

If you prefer your skating to be on non-slick surfaces, roller skating is also possible.  Lace up those skates, and make a few rounds at Crystal Palace Skating.

“Real” Sports** FREE

If you are yearning for some real competitive action while you are in town, pick up games are played almost every day of the week, just like in most other US cities.  You can find a local pick up game for a number of different sports through Meet up.  Popular choices in the area seem to be Volleyball and Soccer.  Check the listings here:  Local Pick Up Games.

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 Games

Gaming Attractions in Las Vegas

Perhaps you just had the thought, wait, this article is supposed to be things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, but here comes the gambling. But, when I say gaming, I mean actual games, like we played as kids and such.

Board Games** FREE

Perhaps this is one of the more surprising things to do in Las Vegas, but  Meepleville Toy Store hosts a board game cafe with hundreds on game choices on hand.  Visitors arrive and form groups of interest based upon their prefered games, and the competition begins!

Laser Tag

Laser tag is fun for young and old.  There are several different options to get in a game with friends.  Laser Quest, Palace Playland, and Battle Blast LV are three popular choices.

Video Games

A number of arcade type locations are available for getting in some play time on your favorite games.  Game Works, and Dave & Busters are well-known options, and you can find the Big Apple Arcade at New York New York, and an Arcade at the Circus Circus Adventuredome.

Prank Games

Las Vegas the Game offers a new twist on pranking your friends.  Headed out for a night on the town?  The Game can suddenly take your night over the top.  Options are all based on popular city activities, so it becomes a group game that cannot be played anywhere else.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms have become a hit around the world, and Las Vegas is no exception.  There are no less than 45 escape options, through the various host companies, some with that special Vegas twist, such as Casino Takeover.  For all the choices, see the World of Escapes website.

Geocache** FREE

I love more unusual stuff to do in Las Vegas, and Geocaching fits that bill! There are hundreds of Geocaches in the greater Vegas area, and at least 20 right on the strip!  Scoring a find among all of those strip walkers could be both a challenge, and a rush. If you don’t know what a Geocache is, see our article Whats a Geocache? Do You Geocache??

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Parks

Parks and Outdoor Attractions in Las Vegas

The city of Las Vegas lies between several small mountain ranges in the midst of the Mojave Desert, having a very unique natural landscape, that spreads into parts of Utah, Arizona and California. If you have a car, get out and see some of these natural wonders.  If you don’t mind driving, you have dozens of day trips from Las Vegas choices, although you can’t quite make it as far as the views of Yosemite. If you don’t feel like driving far, there is even one State Park right in the city!

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Spring Mountain is an oasis in the midst of the desert, flowing with mountain springs.  A working ranch grew up here, and went through various notorious owners, including the once wealthiest man in the world, Howard Hughes.  Visitors can tour the ranch, see some of the oldest buildings in the state, and enjoy the hiking trails, grassy lawns, and shaded picnic areas.

Mt. Charleston National Recreation Area

Mt. Charleston National Recreation Area is about as drastically different from the Las Vegas as it could possibly get.  It is typically 30 degrees cooler in Mt. Charleston on hot summer days.  There are trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVing, and scenic drives.  Perhaps the most awesome aspect of Mt. Charleston is that skiing and snowboarding are available several months of the year. 

Big Bend of the Colorado State Park

At the very bottom of Nevada, in the little tip, is Big Bend of the Colorado State Park.  The water stays cool and clear, even when land temperature surpasses 100 degrees through the summer months.  There are boating ramps, a couple of miles of sandy beach, picnic areas and hiking trails are available.  Birdwatching is also popular, and numerous species of waterfowl make their homes here, as well as owls, hawks, hummingbirds, and even roadrunners.

 Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Park

Located right in the city, the Old Mormon Fort State Park features the remains of the original foundations of the city, on a creek, built by Mormon missionaries in 1855. This was a frequent stop along the Old Spanish Trail, that led to California.  The fort has been restored in honor of the cities beginnings, and artifacts are displayed in the museum, along with photos depicting the history of the area.  Entrance to the museum is $3.

 Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead, just 30 miles south of Las Vegas, and formed by Hoover Dam, is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.  It is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which is a whopping 1.5 million acres, and 820 miles of shoreline, dedicated to recreational use.  Boat launches are available for use, as is a marina.  On the land, there are hiking trails, play areas, and picnic areas.

  Desert National Wildlife Refuge

Created to provide a safe haven for Bighorn Sheep in 1936, the Desert National Wildlife Refuge actually encompasses 4 distinct refuges, in an area of 1.6 million acres.  Beginning about 2 hours to the north of Vegas.  Encompassing an elevation span from 2,000 foot above sea level, to over 10,000.  Desert is a true getaway and “roughing it” experience, where people are scarce.  Visitors should research, and ensure they are prepared.

Floyd Lamb Park**  FREE

Right in the city, Floyd Lamb Park features green areas and walking trails.  Picnic and play areas area also popular with residents and visitors alike.  There are four well stocked lakes.  Anyone with a Nevada fishing license can catch an abundant supply of trout and other game fish.

Tule Springs Fossil Bed National Monument

A 22,000 acre area of land known for rich history and paleontology.  Remains of Columbian Mammoths, dire wolves and extinct breeds of horses, fossilized during the ice ages can be seen on the grounds.  Established in 2014, no visitors center has been built at this time.

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Candies

Unique Candy Attractions in Las Vegas

Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Head out in the desert for some gourmet chocolates.  You can watch the creation process, and you can even assist in “designing” your own, and take home a personal box.

M&Ms World

Eat lots of M&Ms, and see a lot of memorabilia.  The best part however, is making your own personalized candy keepsakes.  Choose from 16 colors of candy coating, and put your name, or message, right on your candy. That makes it one of my favorite Las Vegas attractions!

Hexx Chocolate and Confexxions

Shop for gourmet chocolates, have some coffee and a pastry, or take a tour through the chocolate kitchen.  You can observe the entire creation process, in the “beans to bar” chocolate making experience.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

A huge 2 story store featuring over 800 Hershey’s products, and a number of “experiences.”  Visitor favorites include making their own Reese’s television commercial, and making personalized Hersey’s chocolate bars.

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Shopping

Shopping Attractions in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a shoppers dream.  There are hundreds of shopping establishments, from Walmart, to Dior.  There are bargains to be had, and on the other hand, there are some of the most exclusive options on the planet.

Pawn Shops

Make good off of someone else’s bad luck.  Are there more pawn shops in Vegas per capita than in other places?  We have not conducted the research.  But, there are a lot of pawn shops, including the filming location of the History Channel’s Pawn Stars, Gold & Silver Pawn.  The downtown area is a good place to start.

Thrift Stores

There are also thrift shops, used goods shops, and antique shops.  If you don’t mind a prior owner, some unique items can be found.  They really are spread out over the city, but there are more to be found in the downtown and arts districts, and on Sahara Avenue.

Outlet Options

For name brand and chain store bargains, there are two major outlet malls in the area.  They are on the opposite ends of town, and neither are in the main hub of the strip.  Check the store listings first, to make the best choice on which way to go.  Premium Outlets is on the north side, and Fashion Outlets is on the south.

High End Shopping

The real joy of a Vegas shopping experience is visiting the high-end shops that cannot be found in every city or town.  The first big name in the game was Caesers, with the Forum Shops.  Now there are a few choices, all right in the center of the strip.  The Promenade Shops at Bellagio, and the The Shoppes at Palazzo, and the Grand Canal Shoppes are among the favorites. 

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Museums

Museum Attractions in Las Vegas

Call me a nerd, but I am a museum fanatic.  I love museums of almost any kind, on ALMOST any subject, in fact, I have yet to take a trip that didn’t include at least one.  Las Vegas has quite a few museums to enjoy, on some diverse and unique topics.

The Mob Museum

Another personal favorite Las Vegas attraction, the Mob Museum portrays the rich and unique history of organized crime in the US. Beginning with some of the original founders of the mafia in the east, it follows them to their powerful influence in Vegas.  The museum features historical items, such as the actual wall from the Valentine’s Day Massacre, and a variety of media photographs and footage.  If you want to know more about the Mob Museum, check out our short story, Get Booked!  Visit the Mob Museum.

Zak Bagan’s Haunted Museum

This is not your typical haunted house. It is a 30 room mansion owned by a wealthy family, where the angry spirits of those who died in the home are said to linger. After purchasing the mansion, paranormal pioneer Zak Bagan brought in dozens of haunted, possessed, and just creepy artifacts from around the world, such as Dr. Kevorkian’s death van. It is said to be the scariest thing to do in Las Vegas.

 Shelby American**  FREE

Shelby american is a producer of high performance automobiles and parts.  They have a Heritage Museum, and offer factory tours.

Nostalgia Street Rods

A museum featuring a private collection of vehicles produced between 1910 to 1965.  The collection includes, scooters, street rods, and custom cars.  Other memorabilia is also showcased.

Counts Kustoms**   FREE

Featured in the television program Counting Cars, Count’s Kustoms features their private collection of custom cars, rods, and motorcycles.

Welder Up**  FREE 

Featured in the television show Vegas Rat Rods, the Welder Up shop features the owner’s unique collection of personally created “rat rods.”

Hollywood Cars Museum

Hollywood Cars is said to have a number of well-known movie-star vehicles, from Herbie the Love Bug, the General Lee, and the Knight Rider Kit.  They also feature “tribute cars” depicting the Flinstones car, and the Bugs Bunny Rabbit Car, among others.

Discovery Children’s Museum

The Discovery museum features a variety of hands on exhibits, designed to enable children to freely explore art, culture and science, from a young age.  There are frequent special programs, and demonstrations.  It is designed to be fun and educational, for the whole family.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum focuses on learning about the natural world, and its history.  Affiliated with the Smithsonian Museum, and accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, its educational displays benefit the entire community, and visitors.  See dinosaur replicas and learn about geology, prehistoric animals, and Egyptian culture, among a plethora of other exhibits.

Clark County Museum

 A local museum depicting the history of communities in the area, from prehistoric times to current day.  Replicas of buildings from different eras allow free exploration and imbibe an understanding of life in different times.

Atomic Testing Museum

Founded by the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation, this intriguing museum explores the history of the nuclear weapons testing program in the US, with a focus on the Nevada Test Site.  Circumstances leading up to the testing are explored, as well as the implications and impacts on society, from local communities to the world.

Pinball Hall of Fame**  FREE

Grab a handful of quarters and head to the Pinball Hall of Fame, showcasing the world’s largest pinball machine collection.  The museum fills an entire 10,000 square feet of display area, with machines spanning the decades from the 19502 through the 1990s.  All machines are ready to be played, for a quarter or fifty cents.   

Neon Museum

The Neon Museum offers a bit of glitz and nostalgia, all wrapped into one.  Featuring neon signs from as far back as the 1940s, and other related memorabilia, it is said to give visitors a feeling of “old Vegas.”    Many of the signs are restored, and can be viewed as a part of a walking tour.  Others, perhaps beyond repair, are placed in the Boneyard, which can be visited by appointment.

The Liberace Museum

Housed in two separate locations, the Liberace Collection is one of a kind.  One of history’s most flamboyant performers, his clothing, instruments, and vehicles, were unlike any others.  The Liberace Garage showcases a collection of extraordinary vehicles.  The private collection, housed at the former estate of Michael Jackson, Thriller Villa, featuring fabulous clothing, grand pianos, and other unique items once used by Liberace.  It is said to be an outstanding collection.

Nevada State Museum

Many states feature a state museum, and Nevada is no exception.  There are permanent exhibits about the geology and composition of the land, wildlife, and indigenous cultures.  Special and temporary exhibits on topics of current interest are also regularly featured.

World Scouting Museum

A museum that started as a private collection, as a tribute to the impact that scouting has had on families and young people around the world.  The museum displays a variety of scouting memorabilia from different generations.

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Performances

Performance Attractions in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Philharmonic

Expand your horizons to include performances from the classical masters, at the Philharmonic.  Performances are scheduled throughout the year, and for the holidays, you can expect favorites such as Handel’s Messiah.  Performances are at the Smith Center.

Nevada Ballet Theater

Enjoy graceful performance to the music of some of history’s greatest composers.  Several programs are performed throughout the season, including the traditional, such as Beauty and the Beast, and the more modern, such as Broadway and Ballet.  Holidays will typically include a rendition of The Nutcracker Suite. Performances are at the Smith Center.

Las Vegas Little Theater

Step out of the realm of expected shows and performances, and enjoy some community theater.  LV Little Theater features local residents who audition for their roles.  They also hold an annual contest for play submissions, and produce the winning submission.  Schedules are available on their website, Las Vegas Little Theater.

Vegas Shows

There are so many Vegas shows, that I could not begin to list them all.  Some shows are on all the time, and others, such as big name concerts, come and go.  Whatever your tastes, you can find a show to suit, from comedy to magic, from song to dance.  Check the city visitors guide prior to your trip to find out for sure what is on during your visit.  In our opinion, you can never go wrong with Cirque De’Soleil!

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Resorts

Other Resort Attractions in Las Vegas

Mandalay Bay – Happy Place

A fun and colorful pop up exhibit with 15,000 square feet of happy making rooms interactive displays, and amazing Instagram pics. Swim in the ball pit, get confused in the Upside Down Room, or experience the world’s largest confetti dome.

The Luxor – Bodies… The Exhibition at Luxor

A fascinating dive into the inner workings of the human body through preserved specimens, and 3 dimensional replicas. You may be a bit grossed out, but you will learn a lot too!

The Luxor – Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor

An exciting exhibit with over 250 real artifacts from the Titanic, and replicas of some of its most famous features, such as the Grand Staircase.

Excalibur – 4-D Movies at Excalibur

Brilliant 3-D projection with a variety of special effects create the 4-D experience in short films featuring some of your favorite characters.

Excalibur – Tournament of Kings

A rousing dinner theater experience with a medieval performances and competitions, including knight battles and jousting.

MGM Grand – CSI the Experience

Solve a triple murder in an interactive adventure using a forensic crime lab, and hands on investigative skills. You will be wowed by the special effects.

MGM Grand- The Hunger Games

Follow the journey of Katniss from District 12 through Panem as a member of the resistance. Architectural replicas and real costumes bring the conquest of the capital feel real.

MGM Grand – CBS Television City Research Center

Be a part of television history by being reviewing upcoming programs for CBS, Nickolodean, and MTV. Guests will be taken to one of the 4 studios to watch an newly proposed program, and complete interactive surveys to decide whether it stays, or goes.

MGM Grand- Virtual Reality Level Up

A virtual reality experience for up to 8 people in a 2,000 square foot arena. Choose between battling zombies, fighting rogue robots and drones, or a tropical puzzle based adventure.

Cosmopolitan – Dive In Movies

Exactly what you would expect. Big name hits are shown on a huge marquee screen, while viewers take a dip, or lounge on day beds and cabanas, with movie themed cocktails and snacks.

Ballys – Real Bodies

An anatomical exploration using 20 preserved real bodies, and 11 themed exhibit rooms, that offer in an in depth look at particular bodily functions and systems. Definitely one of the most educational things to do in Las Vegas other than gambling.

Bellagio – Muscial Fountains

Perhaps the most well known of all things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, the crowds at the Bellagio Fountains grow as the day goes on. Get the best view in early afternoon!

The Linq – Tattoo’d America

A pop up exhibit based on the unique anatomical art of tattoos. Make your way through a variety of rooms where you can be a part of the story, and get some amazing Instagram shots!

The Mirage – the Volcano

Another popular attraction along the strip, the Mirage Volcano erupts every hour on the hour, in a display of pyrotechnics and fireballs.

The Venetian – Gondola Rides

Choose from an outdoor ride in the lagoon, or an indoor ride in the canal, depending on the weather. You’ll feel like you are truly in Venice as your gondolier serenades you along the way.

The Venetian – Art and Architecture Tours

A free tour of the unique architectural features and artwork on the Venetian and Palazzo resort properties. There were a few features I would have never found on my own, so I enjoyed it.

The Venetian – The Void- Travel Beyond Reality

A virtual reality experience that takes you inside a feature film, and enables you to become your favorite character. Choose between Jumanji, Star Wars, Avengers, Wreck It Ralph, Ghost Busters, or Nicademus, Demon of Evanishment.

The Venetian – Madame Tussauds

The name known around the world in wax museums is a bit of fun for everyone. See your favorite stars “up close,” and get a few shots for your Instagram.

Treasure Island – Marvel Avengers Station

Exactly what you would expect it to be, Marvel Avengers Station is an immersive dive into the world of your favorite characters. Play a part in saving the world.

Winn Las Vegas – Winn Musical Fountains

Many people don’t realize there are two musical fountains on the strip. Although the Winn fountains are smaller, and less dramatic, they are still mesmerizing to watch, and frankly, I have never seen a crowd.

Winn Las Vegas – Winn Lake of Dreams

Part musical theater part light show, the Lake of Dreams sits in an Alpine forest setting with a mountain and forest. The shows take place on the surface of the lake.

Circus Circus – Circus Performances

Get in on the action in one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, See clowns and acrobats, and all sorts of big top feats, every day.

Cocktails

Cocktail and Lounge Attractions in Las Vegas

Obviously in a city like Las Vegas, there are hundreds of lounges, bars, and pubs.  If you don’t know, cocktails are free in the casinos to those who are gambling. But if you prefer the other stuff to do in Las Vegas, where to get a drink may be a dilemma with all the options.  But a few lounges set themselves apart from the crowd with atmosphere and other tactics.

Minus 5 Experience

Bundle up in a parka, and take some selfies amongst the sculptures in an one of the Minus 5 ice bars, where EVERYTHING including the glass, is sculpted of ice.  There are 3 locations on the strp.

Fat Tuesday

Although not unique to Las Vegas, Fat Tuesday has the iconic 18 and 24” daquiri slushes, that you can carry out to stay cool on a hot Las Vegas day.  There are at least 8 different locations.

1923 Speakeasy

“Hidden” under the escalators in Mandalay Bay, this prohibition style speakeasy specializes in bourbons, ryes and whiskeys, with over 25 choices.  You can also get a fun gangster named cocktail.

Sake Rok

A restaraunt and lounge, where you can have amazing sushi while enjoying an extravagant Japanese pop culture theaterics, or come later for drinks, and try one of the famous sake bombs.

The Barbershop Cuts and Cocktails

Another “hidden” bar, in a janitor’s closet at the Cosmopolitan, The Barbershop has an elegant atmosphere where you can get a table, or get a shave and a trim with your cocktail.

Napolean’s Lounge

Relax in the vintage atmosphere, whilie dueling pianists go head to head, drawing the crowd into the competition every night.  Napolean’s features and extensive wine list, and specialty chambord and desert cocktails.

Vista Cocktail Lounge

Vista may seem simple at first glance, until you look out the window at the skyline. It may be any city of culture around the world, as the view is not really a window, but an advanced LED display, rotating the world’s most famous skylines.

Millennium Fandom Bar

Millenium Fandom is every geeks dream bar, specializing in a pop culture. Sci-fi-ish atmosphere, with nightly events from board game and video game nights, to geek triva, and weekend Cosplay events and contests.

Corduroy

Featuring 1970s decor, with its lava lamp style led displays neon posters, and a conversation pit, Corduroy is a blast from the past.  Boozy Bingo is a crowd favorite, as is taking selfies in the lightbox.

ReBar

Part cocktail lounge, part antique store, ReBar has the atmosphere you would expect.  The antiques are for sale, and the drinks start at vintage prices.

Velveteen Rabbit

With its Victorian atmosphere, the Velveteen Rabbit exudes old fashioned elegance and sophistication.  The hand crafted drink menu changes seasonally to feature fresh and local ingredients, a sort of farm to bar concept.

Sins and other Stuff

Risque Attractions in Las Vegas

Shooting Experiences

Many visitors from locations with stricter laws, hope to experience the adrenaline of shooting handguns or automatic weapons.  There are numerous places to experience target shooting, and simulated assault shooting in the city and on the strip.  All of the facilities provide training on use, handling, and safety.  A safety trainer accompanies the visitor throughout the shooting experience.  Some places to try a shooting or combat simulation experience include: Top Shot Las Vegas,  Bullets and Burgers,  The Gun Store Las Vegas,  Shoot Las Vegas,  Gun Garage,  Machine Gun Experience,  Strip Gun Club,  Machine Guns Vegas,  Battlefield Vegas,  The Range 702.

Get Pampered

Spa experiences can be found in dozens of places, and most notably, every upscale resort has spa services.  You can get rubbed, wrapped, soaked, showered, steamed, and sunned.  Any type of relaxing and pampering body experience you want, is close at hand.

Show Some Skin

For visitors who really want to get naked, there are several pools right on the strip, where clothing above the waist is optional.  While in many countries, this is considered completely normal, in the US it is pretty taboo.  Some pools where you can take that top off are  Bare Pool at the Mirage,  Tao Beach at the Venetian,  Naked Pool at the Artisan,  DayDream Club Pool at the M Resort.

Take it All Off

But perhaps learning to take it all off, in an intentionally provocative manner, sounds more appealing.  There are classes that provide instruction in the best techniques, given by professionals in the field.  Some classes, if you want to learn how to take it off in the sexiest way:  Stripper 101, at the Hard Rock Cafe,  X Burlesque University, at The Flamingo.  

See Some Skin/Get Some Skin

We won’t go into a lot of details here, but yes, you can do both of these things in Nevada.  There are a couple dozen places in the city to see some skin or get a lap dance, for men and women.  You won’t have any trouble finding them, if you are looking.  There is also a Burlesque Hall of Fame, which many visitors find interesting.  For anyone looking to actually experience some skin, driving about 90 miles outside of the city is required.  While brothels are legal in Nevada, they are not legal in Las Vegas.

People Watching

Visit any large city in the world and there will be an opportunity to people watch, but some cities will be a bit more interesting than others.  The vast diversity of incomes, ages, and origins, make for some pretty eclectic intermingling.  People watching is prime anywhere on the strip, and downtown.  Be prepared to see a bit more than desired from time to time though!

Gaming, aka, Gambling

Perhaps the main attraction… There are approximately 40 casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.  Include the entire city, and that number grows to about 105.  In those 105 casinos, there are about 200,000 slot machines.  Take into account all of the table game options, which we do not have a number for, and that is a lot of gaming options! 

If you are on your first trip to the city, and your first gambling experience, be sure to check out our story Your First Vegas Gaming Experience, before dropping any dollars!

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As you see, there truly are a LOT of things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling!

Don’t get lost in the shuffle! Pin it now for later!

We hope you have a trip plan forming now!!

Links for Planning

What else do you need for a fantastic trip to Vegas?  

If you are planning your first trip, there are some important things you should be aware of, besides all of these things to do.  Make sure to review our article, What I wish I knew before my first trip to Las Vegas!

If you will be spending more than a couple days in Las Vegas, you will probably hit a point where you need to get out of town. So check out our Amazing Day Trips from Las Vegas!

If you are going to gamble first time, check out our article, First Vegas Gaming Experience. 

If you are hoping to maintain your fitness in Vegas, check out our article, Stay Fit in Sin City.

Some of favorite things to do.. So Far..

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