Las Vegas is quite a unique, renowned resort city known worldwide, largely due to its gambling past and interesting casinos. Over time, that reputation has expanded beyond Sin City, attracting more families and solo travelers and continuing to inspire quick couple marriages in tiny chapels. While I am not much of a gambler I figured I would wager that I could have a fun time in Vegas (the colloquial term used for Las Vegas). Yes, there is so much more than just casinos.
Read more: 20 Unique Things To Do In Vegas- Other Than GamblingDisclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.Travels of Sarah Fay is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you.
This list I hope gives you suggestions of things you can do by yourself, with your family or friends at various price levels. You know there are massive shows by many famous artists like Shania Twain, as well as other fun shows by Cirque Du Soleil. While shows and events may be big ticket items, there is much more to do, see, and experience.
My first trip to Vegas was years ago on a family trip doing a 10,000-mile journey around the country. It was during the summer and it was hot, but we stayed in hotels, swam in pools, saw magic shows, etc. This trip to Vegas was in early November and the weather was great! I had planned to see so much more of Vegas including adventures in nature, seeing some phenomenal hotels, exploring the food scene, and having adventures without gambling or alcohol (since I don’t drink).
1. Explore and Stroll “The Strip” (Free)
One of the cheapest and fun things to do is cruise The Strip, maybe by car and then by foot. Many of the hotels are massive and are spread out over the Strip and side roads. There is so much to see and you can feel like you’re traveling by going to some of the famous properties.
Feel like you are in Venice, Italy by strolling through The Venetian Hotel, or like you’re in Rome by going to Caesars. If you want to feel like you are in Paris head to the Parisian. Then there are some stylish, modern newer hotels like the Aria, but this time around I stayed off strip a bit to enjoy the new Virgin Hotel Las Vegas where you can enjoy the Strip with a quick ride back to a hotel.
It is free to stroll around the strip and can be a great way to see the sights. You could also have snacks or grab some food while walking into the various hotels. Plus, you can do this for free, unless you like to eat at one. If you do not want to walk around at night on the Strip you can also take an open air bus tour at night to experience the city lights.
2. Bellagio Fountains
Make sure you see the impressive Bellagio Fountains and the watershow. It is beautiful and free to see. I did get to see the fountains on a past trip, but this time some of the barricades for the Formula 1 race were still partially blocking the view. I’m sure this is only temporary so I am sure by the time you read this you can see them. The Fountains have also been featured in movies. It is especially wonderful at nighttime with the lights.
Schedule: From Monday to Friday, the fountain delights visitors with shows every 30 minutes between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and every 15 minutes from 7:00 p.m. until midnight. On weekends and holidays, the schedule begins earlier, with performances every 30 minutes from noon to 7:00 p.m., and every 15 minutes from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
3. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Before you leave the Bellagio area, perhaps you stop and see the free Bellagio Conservatory. There are 7 scenes that rotate throughout the year and so many floral arrangements. Many love to see these beautiful displays.
4. AREA15
Area 15 If you’re looking for a next-level adventure in Las Vegas, AREA15 is a must-visit. With the Experience Pass starting at $49, you can explore a variety of attractions, including the incredible Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart (starting at $54)—a surreal journey through an art-filled grocery store with hidden portals, bizarre rooms, and mind-bending mysteries. It’s the kind of place where you’ll lose track of time as you explore interactive art and unravel its strange storylines. Another standout is the Bytes and Beyond Tour ($69), a self guided journey behind the scenes of AREA15’s innovative tech and art installations. It’s a fascinating way to learn how this futuristic playground comes to life!
The Area 15 also features tons of fun activities, from ziplining through the space to immersive VR experiences and mind-blowing arcade games, as well as the Illuminarium all included with the Experience Pass. If you’re looking to fuel up, grab a bite at one of their vibrant restaurants or bars—it’s worth arriving early to soak up the vibe. Whether you’re chasing thrills, uncovering hidden gems, or just snapping photos of its jaw-dropping spaces, AREA15 delivers an unforgettable escape from the typical Vegas scene.
5. The Mob Museum
Visiting the Mob Museum in Las Vegas offers a fascinating dive into the history of organized crime and law enforcement. Beyond the immersive exhibits that detail infamous mobsters and their operations, the museum includes a hidden gem: The Underground speakeasy, where you can sip on Prohibition-inspired cocktails in an authentic 1920s setting. For a more intense experience, the museum offers unique interactive features, such as a crime lab where you can learn forensic techniques or the adrenaline-pumping Use of Force Training Experience, which simulates high-stakes scenarios like an active shooter situation. These additions make the visit both educational and unforgettable. The cost ranges from $34.95 for entry, or $49.95 if you are looking to try one of the experiences, and $54.95 if you want to try two.
6. Electric Play House
Go have an immersive dining experiences Las Vegas with its unique mixture of food and interactive experiences. You can choose various options like Teatime in Wonderland, The Undead Party, etc. I was there at Halloween, so I did the Undead Party. While this is a more costly event since it included a great meal and interactive experience it truly is unique. There are also interactive games to play, which was fun before and after dinner. It is located in the Caesars Forum, a shopping mall so it can be worth it to do some window shopping as well.
7. Ride the Big Apple Coaster
For a unique perspective and view of Las Vegas, go to the New York-New York Hotel and ride The Big Apple Coaster. Ride the steel hyper rollercoaster. It has thrilling drops and a massive upside-down loop while getting great views of The Strip. I tried it and it was an exhilarating ride! Just remember, you must be 54 inches to ride. Before you go I suggest reserving your time ahead. The cost is $25. While not free, it is certainly a unique roller coaster with these views.
8. Free Fun on Fremont Street known as the Fremont Street Experience
Fremont Street is a great pedestrian mall, one of the main tourist thoroughfares, with free concerts, live music, etc. You can walk down the closed street to see these amazingly lit casinos like the Golden Nugget, etc., and see a light show at 6 pm. There is so much more to see and it’s free. But, you’ll even see a zip line you can ride known as SlotZilla Zip Line, although there is a cost for that activity. Official Site of the SlotZilla Zip Line in Downtown Las Vegas
9. Pinball Hall of Fame (Free Admission)
This pinball museum/hall of fame is ideal if you like games, especially historic pinball games. It’s easy to get to since it’s on The Strip. If you do go, it’s free, but maybe bring some quarters to play your favorite games. You never know, perhaps you’re the next pinball wizard!
10. Food Tour and Helicopter Tour
Generally I go to new cities like Vegas, I love to do a food tour! It is so great, I loved going on a tour that included not only the experience of trying some of the best restaurants at the Aria and Crystal Shops, but also a helicopter tour. I booked this tour through Klook and I have a code for you to use to save TravelsofSarahFay (3% off for returning users to klook and 10 % for new users). This was the perfect way to experience Las Vegas at night solo. Take the Savory Bites and Neon Lights tour in Vegas, I highly recommend.
Go to Nature – Take a Hike
Well, if you know my past I love to explore local nature. While Las Vegas is surrounded by much dry hot desert, there are great places to explore close by especially when the weather permits. Two wonderful parks, Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire are close by. Remember given the hot and dry climate, be sure to bring water with you and you may want to download a hiking map since the internet may not be available. AllTrails is a great source for maps about hiking, camping, etc. I used it for this trip.
11. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is close to downtown, only 17 miles away. You can come for a ride to see the beautiful area, which is part of the Mojave Desert. The Canyon has wonderful geological structures like the towering red sandstone peaks and panoramic scenic views.
Depending on the season, there are waterfalls in Ice Box Canyon. The Calico Tanks Trail is another hike with stunning views. The area has over 197 thousand acres and Red Rock has 26 hiking trails within the scenic drive, plus so much more including camping, climbing, etc.
How to get to Red Rock Canyon and Tips
Red Rock is located on State Road 159. If you have the America the Beautiful park pass, Entrance Passes (U.S. National Park Service), you can get in for free, otherwise, it’s $20 to enter. There are all kinds of areas to explore and you may need a reservation to get in, depending on the season.
Remember the summer months of July-August can be over 100 degrees a day so keep that in your planning and check ahead if areas are open. There are so many great day hikes at Red Rocks Canyon including Calico tanks a 2.2 mile round trip hike where you can get great views of Las Vegas from afar, and Lost Creek trail for a short managable hike .75 miles where you can see petroglyphs.
12. Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire is another great place for a few hikes. It is reasonably priced at $10 if you have Nevada plates ($15 for non-Nevada plates). While there is a cost to get in, there are many hikes available and the park offers so much more including camping for part of the year. From my visit it mentioned the trails are closed in the hot summer months- check the schedule for a complete list of activities. Also, there is no cell service here so it’s a great reason to download the map.
Fire Wave Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park and only 1.5 miles roundtrip. The swirling sandstone appears to look like waves of fire, hence the name. The park has numerous great hikes and other scenery like Joshua Trees.
13. Hoover Dam | Bureau of Reclamation
A great marvel of architecture is the Hoover Dam, with its hydroelectric power plant that runs across the Colorado River. You can go there to view them for free or there are also trips you can take to see the inner workings of the Dam. This is about 30-45 minutes, depending on where you are staying. While you can cross the dam, you may want to take a tour that you can book through GetYourGuide There are numerous options if you prefer getting a tour.
14. Boulder City, NV
Not far from Vegas and the Hoover Dam is the charming, small town of Boulder City. If you want to get the feel of a small town in Nevada, this is the place. Originally it started as a place for the workers that constructed the Hoover Dam and now it is a charming town to visit with a population of about 15k. Boulder City is a great place to shop on the main street with its stores and then at Coffee Cup Cafe – Boulder City. The world-famous Coffee Cup Cafe has been featured on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives and my food was great (as was the coffee). I had the pork chili verde omelet with hashbrowns and toast. It was worth the wait!
One thing I have been dying to see in person is wildlife, especially BigHorn Sheep. Well, it turns out I was fortunate to see them roaming freely in Hemenway Valley Park. What a unique sight and it is free to visit! They really caught my eye and it was great to see them roam around.
15. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead is the reservoir associated with the Hoover Dam, but the entire national area is massive with mountains, valleys, and two massive lakes, including Lake Mead. When visiting the reservoir, dam, and Boulder City, you can get views of this brilliant lake and surrounding area.
There are also other areas where you can camp, including over 900 desert and lake campsites. Also, you can do kayaking, boating, canoeing, etc. I didn’t spend much time here, but there are so many great activities available. Fall here is a great time to hike as well. Driving your car or motorcycle costs $25 and $20, respectively. I have my National Park Pass so it would be free, but check the website to be sure of the current rates and if there are any closures.
16. “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign photo
Many visitors to Vegas love to get a picture of this iconic symbol of Las Vegas (and it’s free to do). Perhaps you get one of yourself or your family with this bold sign with its vibrant colors. It is a popular thing to do! This is also a great way to take a vacation photo.
17. Grand Canyon – West Rim Day Trip
If you have time in the Las Vegas area, you may want to splurge, even for a day trip, to the mighty Grand Canyon. One of the easiest and quickest parts to see is the West Rim. While I have been to the Grand Canyon, it is such an amazing sight and I would take the time to see it. If you don’t have transportation, there are guided tours with Getyourguide.
18. Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas – I had a fantastic stay with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas which is a Hilton Curio Collection hotel. Virgin is well-located, just off the strip. I really enjoyed my stunning room, the restaurants, the massive pool, and the relaxing spa. I highly recommend it and the staff and all the folks I met there were fantastic.
The property, with its sleek and contemporary design, offers a refreshing departure from traditional Vegas resorts. Spacious, stylishly appointed rooms feature bold colors, cutting-edge amenities, and thoughtful touches like ergonomic beds and privacy-focused layouts. The resort’s expansive pool area feels like an oasis, complete with cabanas and live music vibes.
19. Dining and Entertainment at Virgin Hotels LV
Dining is a highlight, with a variety of top-notch restaurants such as Nobu, One Steakhouse, and the fun vibes day to night at Kassi Beach you will never get bored of the food options here. The casino is also another great option for entertainment or the burlesque show on the weekends. Whether you’re enjoying a rooftop cocktail, catching a live performance, or exploring the vibrant art and decor, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas delivers a unique, sophisticated take on the classic Vegas getaway.
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20. Why not add on a Road trip to your Las Vegas trip
This visit to Las Vegas was the beginning of my road trip around Arizona. I had the great opportunity to use a camper van from Travellers Autobarn. It is a truly unique way to explore Las Vegas and the area! I ended up driving to Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon. Hope you enjoy the journey!
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November 20, 2024
