Las Vegas, famously known as “Sin City,” is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and iconic casinos.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the Strip, Las Vegas offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to all interests, from natural wonders to historical sites and unique museums.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are always new and exciting things to do in Las Vegas that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
From breathtaking views atop the High Roller to immersive experiences at unique museums, Las Vegas is a city that never ceases to amaze.
Best Things to Do in Las Vegas
Here’s a guide to some of the best attractions that should be on your Las Vegas itinerary.
1. Springs Preserve
Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural and historical site located just a few miles from the Las Vegas Strip.
This desert oasis features botanical gardens, walking trails, and interactive exhibits that showcase the natural and cultural history of Las Vegas.
Visitors can explore the Origen Museum, which offers exhibits on the region’s geology and wildlife, or the Nevada State Museum, which delves into the state’s rich history.
The Preserve also hosts seasonal events and educational programs, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
Exploring Springs Preserve is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for those seeking a serene and educational experience.
Location: 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107, United States.
2. High Roller
The High Roller at The LINQ Promenade is the world’s tallest observation wheel, offering unparalleled views of the Las Vegas skyline.
Standing at 550 feet tall, the High Roller features 28 spacious cabins that can hold up to 40 passengers each.
A full rotation takes about 30 minutes, providing ample time to take in the stunning panoramic views, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights up.
The experience can be enhanced with in-cabin dining, cocktails, or even yoga sessions.
Riding the High Roller is one of the most exciting things to do in Las Vegas, offering a unique perspective of the city’s dazzling landscape.
Location: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States.
3. Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum
For those intrigued by the paranormal, Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum offers a spine-chilling experience.
Located in a historic mansion, the museum houses a vast collection of haunted artifacts and creepy curiosities curated by paranormal investigator Zak Bagans.
Visitors can explore themed rooms filled with items such as the infamous Dybbuk Box, haunted dolls, and cursed objects.
The museum provides guided tours that delve into the eerie history and stories behind each artifact.
Visiting Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum is one of the most unique and thrilling things to do in Las Vegas for fans of the supernatural.
Location: 600 E Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104, United States.
4. Grand Canyon West Skywalk
A visit to the Grand Canyon West Skywalk offers an awe-inspiring adventure just a few hours’ drive from Las Vegas.
The Skywalk is a glass-bottomed bridge that extends 70 feet out over the edge of the Grand Canyon, providing stunning views of the canyon floor 4,000 feet below.
Located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the Skywalk offers a unique perspective of one of the world’s natural wonders.
The site also includes other attractions, such as Eagle Point and Guano Point, which offer additional breathtaking views and cultural exhibits.
Experiencing the Grand Canyon West Skywalk is one of the top things to do in Las Vegas for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Southwest.
Location: Peach Springs, AZ 86434, United States.
5. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is a must-visit attraction for marine life enthusiasts.
This impressive aquarium features over 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, and exotic fish.
The main attraction is a 1.3-million-gallon tank with a walk-through tunnel, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the marine life.
The aquarium also offers interactive experiences, such as the Touch Pool and the Dive with Sharks program.
Exploring the Shark Reef Aquarium is one of the most fascinating things to do in Las Vegas, providing a captivating underwater adventure in the heart of the desert.
Location: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States.
6. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a stunning display of horticultural artistry located within the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.
This 14,000-square-foot conservatory features seasonal exhibits that transform the space into a floral wonderland, with themed displays that celebrate the changing seasons, holidays, and cultural events.
Each exhibit is meticulously designed by a team of horticulturists and artists, using thousands of flowers, plants, and trees.
The conservatory is open 24/7 and is free to the public, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
Visiting the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is one of the most delightful things to do in Las Vegas, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the Strip.
Location: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States.
7. AREA15
AREA15 is a cutting-edge entertainment complex located just off the Las Vegas Strip.
This immersive and interactive space combines art, technology, and entertainment to create a unique experience for visitors.
Highlights include the surreal art installation and retail experience Omega Mart, created by Meow Wolf, and Lost Spirits Distillery, where visitors can enjoy craft spirits in a whimsical, theatrical environment.
AREA15 also hosts a variety of events, from live music to virtual reality experiences.
With its eclectic mix of attractions, AREA15 is one of the most innovative things to do in Las Vegas, perfect for those seeking something out of the ordinary.
Location: 3215 S Rancho Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89102, United States.
8. Hoover Dam
A visit to Hoover Dam is a must for those interested in engineering marvels and natural beauty.
Located about 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, this iconic structure spans the Colorado River, creating Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States.
Visitors can take guided tours of the dam and powerplant, which offer fascinating insights into its construction and operation.
The stunning views of the dam, Lake Mead, and the surrounding desert landscape make it a popular destination.
Experiencing the grandeur of Hoover Dam is one of the top things to do in Las Vegas for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Location: Las Vegas, United States.
9. The Mob Museum
The Mob Museum, officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, is located in downtown Las Vegas.
This museum provides an in-depth look at the history of organized crime in America, with a particular focus on Las Vegas.
Exhibits include artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that explore the lives of infamous mobsters, the law enforcement efforts to combat them, and the impact of organized crime on American society.
The Mob Museum also features a speakeasy and distillery in the basement.
Visiting The Mob Museum is one of the most intriguing things to do in Las Vegas for those interested in the darker side of history.
Location: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States.
10. Fountains of Bellagio
The Fountains of Bellagio are one of Las Vegas’s most iconic attractions, located in front of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.
This mesmerizing water show features fountains that dance to music, creating a choreographed spectacle of water, light, and sound.
Shows run every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings, and every 15 minutes from 8 PM to midnight.
The fountain shows are free to the public and offer a captivating display of artistry and technology.
Watching the Fountains of Bellagio is one of the most romantic and awe-inspiring things to do in Las Vegas, perfect for visitors of all ages.
Location: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States.
11. Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience is a vibrant pedestrian mall in downtown Las Vegas, offering a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping.
The highlight is the Viva Vision light show, a massive LED canopy that displays dazzling light and sound shows nightly.
Visitors can also enjoy live music, street performers, and a variety of attractions, including the SlotZilla zipline that runs beneath the canopy.
Fremont Street’s historic casinos and neon signs add to the nostalgic charm of the area.
Exploring the Fremont Street Experience is one of the most exciting things to do in Las Vegas, offering a lively and immersive experience in the heart of downtown.
Location: Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States.
12. Omega Mart
Omega Mart, located within AREA15, is an extraordinary and surreal art installation and retail experience created by the artist collective Meow Wolf.
This interactive attraction blends a seemingly normal grocery store with mind-bending and immersive environments that visitors can explore.
Behind the facade of everyday products lie secret passages, hidden rooms, and intricate art installations that tell a larger narrative.
Omega Mart challenges perceptions and invites curiosity, making it one of the most unique things to do in Las Vegas.
It’s an adventure that offers surprises at every turn, perfect for those seeking an out-of-the-box experience.
Location: 3215 S Rancho Dr #100, Las Vegas, NV 89102, United States.
13 The Neon Museum Las Vegas
The Neon Museum Las Vegas is dedicated to preserving the iconic neon signs that have illuminated the city’s skyline for decades.
The museum’s outdoor exhibition space, known as the Neon Boneyard, features a collection of restored and un-restored signs from old casinos, hotels, and other businesses.
Guided tours provide fascinating stories about the history of these signs and the role they played in the development of Las Vegas.
The museum also offers a stunning light show called Brilliant!, which brings the signs to life with projection mapping and music.
Visiting The Neon Museum is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate vintage Americana.
Location: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101, United States.
14. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a stunning natural wonder located just a short drive west of Las Vegas.
This 195,819-acre area is renowned for its towering red sandstone peaks, striking desert landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
Visitors can explore the 13-mile scenic drive, which offers numerous viewpoints and access to hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Popular activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, and picnicking. The visitor center provides educational exhibits about the area’s geology, ecology, and history.
Exploring Red Rock Canyon is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Location: Mountain Springs, NV 89161, United States.
15. The Venetian Las Vegas
The Venetian Las Vegas is a luxury resort and casino inspired by the romantic city of Venice, Italy.
The resort features stunning architecture, including replicas of iconic Venetian landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Campanile.
Visitors can take a leisurely gondola ride along the Grand Canal, complete with singing gondoliers, or explore the opulent interior with its intricate frescoes and grand corridors.
The Venetian also offers world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment, including the renowned Madame Tussauds Las Vegas.
Visiting The Venetian is one of the most luxurious things to do in Las Vegas, providing a taste of Venetian charm in the heart of the Strip.
Location: 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States.
16. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is an interactive wax museum located at The Venetian Resort.
This popular attraction features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons.
Visitors can pose for photos with their favorite stars, including musicians, actors, athletes, and political leaders.
The museum’s immersive sets and interactive exhibits allow guests to step into the worlds of their favorite movies, TV shows, and music videos.
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas offers a fun and unique experience for visitors of all ages, making it one of the top things to do in Las Vegas.
Location: 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste. 2001, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States.
17. Discovery Children’s Museum
The Discovery Children’s Museum in Las Vegas is a family-friendly attraction that offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational activities for children of all ages.
The museum’s nine-themed exhibit halls cover topics such as science, art, culture, and early childhood development.
Highlights include the “Eco City” exhibit, where kids can learn about sustainability, and the “Water World” exhibit, which explores the properties of water through hands-on experiments.
The museum also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs.
Visiting the Discovery Children’s Museum is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for families, providing a fun and enriching experience for young minds.
Location: 360 Promenade Pl, Las Vegas, NV 89106, United States.
18. Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park, located about an hour’s drive northeast of Las Vegas, is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park.
The park is named for its vibrant red sandstone formations, which appear to be on fire when illuminated by the sun.
Visitors can explore the park’s stunning landscapes through a network of hiking trails that lead to unique rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic viewpoints.
Popular attractions include the Fire Wave, Elephant Rock, and the Seven Sisters. The park also offers camping facilities and picnic areas.
Exploring Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most breathtaking things to do in Las Vegas, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and history.
Location: Moapa Valley, NV 89040, United States.
19. Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a unique and nostalgic attraction located just off the Las Vegas Strip.
This museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of pinball machines, featuring a vast collection of vintage and modern pinball games.
Visitors can play a variety of pinball machines from different eras, experiencing the evolution of this classic arcade game.
The museum is operated by the Las Vegas Pinball Collectors Club, and all proceeds go to local charities.
Visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame is one of the most fun and nostalgic things to do in Las Vegas, perfect for both pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers.
Location: 4925 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States.
20. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
The “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
Located at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip, this classic neon sign has been greeting visitors since 1959.
The sign’s distinctive design and bright lights make it a popular spot for photos, symbolizing the excitement and glamour of Las Vegas.
Visitors can stop by the sign, take memorable photos, and soak in the ambiance of the city.
Visiting the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is one of the quintessential things to do in Las Vegas, offering a perfect start or end to any trip to the city.
Location: 5100 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States.
In conclusion, Las Vegas is a city that offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its iconic entertainment and nightlife to its diverse array of attractions that cater to all interests.
Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of Springs Preserve, marveling at the views from the High Roller, or delving into the paranormal at Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum, there are countless things to do in Las Vegas that will make your visit truly unforgettable.
So pack your bags and get ready to discover the many wonders of this dynamic and enchanting city!
