Securing Success in Sin City: The Importance of Booking Las Vegas Shows Early!

Part of the charm of Las Vegas is not watching the clock or even planning what you are going to do for the day.  The one exception to this would be planning to see a show.  It is important to plan this probably before you go for various reasons:

• Show time limited availability – Some shows are either seasonal or only shown on certain days.  Even entertainers need a day off, right? Also, some of the shows you want to see might be some of the most popular.  By planning ahead you can read reviews, budget accordingly and avoid the disappointment of the show being sold out when you want to see it. 

• Preferred Seating – You might want to splurg on your one of your favorite entertainers and get better seating.  If this is the case, you will definitely want to book your shows in advance to ensure you have a better chance of getting the seats you want.  Waiting until the last minute might result in a less desirable seating option.

• Budgeting – By planning to buy your show tickets ahead of time, you can search for the best deals.  Just like airline tickets, the closer you get the date, the more expensive the tickets can be. 

Planning a show in advance before your trip can same you a lot of time, money, and prevent frustration.  As you can see there is always going to be a show that piques your interest, and more than likely will not disappoint.  So when you plan your trip to Las Vegas, do not forget to plan for the excitement of shows and performances in your itinerary.  It is a decision you likely will not regret, and an experience you will never forget.

1. Cirque du Soleil Shows: Las Vegas is famous for hosting a number of Cirque du Soleil productions, each with its own unique theme and artistic direction. Some of the popular Cirque du Soleil shows in the past included “O” at Bellagio, “Mystère” at Treasure Island, “Michael Jackson ONE” at Mandalay Bay, and “KA” at MGM Grand.
2. Magic Shows: Las Vegas has a long history of hosting renowned magicians. Some of the most famous magicians who have performed in Vegas include David Copperfield, Penn & Teller, and Criss Angel. These magicians offer mind-boggling illusions and impressive feats of magic.
3. Comedy Shows: Many comedians have found a home in Las Vegas. You can catch stand-up comedians and comedy shows at various venues throughout the city, including famous comedians like Eddie Griffin, Carrot Top, and Brad Garrett.
4. Music and Concerts: Las Vegas regularly hosts residencies of world-famous musicians and bands. Artists like Celine Dion, Elton John, Britney Spears (in the past), and Lady Gaga have performed extended engagements on the Las Vegas Strip.
5. Dinner Shows: These shows combine entertainment with a dining experience. Shows like “Tournament of Kings” at Excalibur and “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace offer a unique blend of food, drinks, and entertainment.
6. Variety Shows: Some shows in Las Vegas offer a mix of different performance styles, including singing, dancing, comedy, and more. The “Las Vegas Live Comedy Club” at Planet Hollywood and “V – The Ultimate Variety Show” at Planet Hollywood are examples of such shows.
7. Burlesque and Adult Shows: Las Vegas also offers a range of adult-oriented shows, often featuring sensual or provocative performances. “X Burlesque” at The Flamingo is one of the longest running on the strip.
8. Tribute Shows: These shows pay homage to famous artists or bands. For example, “Legends in Concert” at Tropicana features impersonators performing as iconic musicians.
9. Broadway Shows: Some Broadway productions have made their way to Las Vegas. While these shows might not be as numerous as in New York City, you can still catch popular productions at certain times.

Remember that the availability of shows can change, and new shows may have emerged since my last update. It’s always a good idea to check with local sources or official websites to get the most current information about the best shows in Las Vegas.

1. The Bellagio Fountains Water Show

This is a must see attraction and almost a can’t miss attraction if you are traveling along the strip.  Located in the center of the strip this iconic attraction features over 1,200 water fountains each capable of reading heights of over 450 feet.  The fountains are perfectly choreographed with the dancing water perfectly timed to the accompanying soundtrack.  As the music swells and cascades, the fountains mirror the music with graceful movements of swaying and jetting.  This attraction is performed every 30 minutes during the daytime and every 15 minutes starting at 7pm.  The show starts at 3pm on the weekdays and noon on the weekends.

2. The Volcano at The Mirage (for a limited time)

This is a soon to be missed attraction as it is being replaced by a new hotel.  So if you are visiting Las Vegas soon, you might want to catch it before it is gone.  As the sun sets over the Las Vegas strip, this man-made marvel comes to life at the top of every hour from 8pm to midnight.  The eruption begins with an impressive display of water and fire choreography, shotting flames high into the sky and dancing in perfect harmony with the cascading waterfall.  The eruption is further amplified by the lighting, music and sound effects, which all create a sensory experience for onlookers.

3. The iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

This attraction has become a must stop for a photo opportunity.  Erected in 1959, this sign marks the start of the Las Vegas Strip.  The sign is 25 feet tall and located at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South.  If you head further down the street you will be able to locate the free parking to take your picture.

4. Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street is also known as “Old Vegas” or simply downtown.  Walking down Fremont Street is almost like a large outdoor street party.  If you visit during the nighttime, the first thing that you will notice will be the largest LED canopy in the world that holds over 16 million pixels and stretches 90 feet above the street for over 1300 feet.  This is a light and sounds experience like no other with a show starting at the top of every hour from 6pm to 2am.  The next thing you will probably notice are the street performers.  Some of them are shocking, some talented, and some just kind of wacky.  Whichever one piques your interest, you will probably stop at least once to watch one of them.  Fremont Street is just as it promises… an experience.   

5. The Wildlife Habitat at The Flamingo

Nestled amidst the center of the strip at The Flamingo Hotel is an oasis of serenity with a unique and beautiful wildlife habitat.  The Flamingos wildlife habitat offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a lush and tropical environment while admiring exotic birds, fish and other creatures in their natural habitat.  The star of this show is of course the hotel’s namesake, the Chilean Flamingo.  The Chilean Flamingos are known for their striking pink plumage and graceful appearance.  These flamingos have become the unofficial mascots of the hotel, delighting visitors with their elegant displays and captivating behaviors. 

6. Take a stroll down the Arts District

The Arts District in Las Vegas is an overlooked attraction by tourists.  Located about a mile away from Fremont Street, the Arts District is not just a destination but a living, breathing testament to the power of artistic expression.  Strolling through the Arts District you will encounter a wide array of art on display, a multitude of galleries and studios, and vibrant culinary scene.

7. Visit the Container Park

Located downtown, the Container Park offers an open air shopping experience that has the creative architecture of local shops being placed in stacked and interconnected shipping containers, forming a maze of attractions. Beyond its retail and culinary offerings, the Container Park is a hub of entertainment for both young and old.  Live performances, musical acts, and shows frequently grace the park’s stages.  Visitors can enjoy free concerts, comedy shows, and family friendly events that provide the perfect setting for relaxation or celebration.

8. Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Botanical Cactus Garden

Stepping into the Ethal M Chocolate Factory is like entering a magical wonderland for chocolate enthusiasts.  The free factory tour takes visitors on a journey through the chocolate making process and provides samples along the way.  If sweets are not your scene, you can also stroll through The Cactus Garden that spans over three acres and houses on of the largest collections in Nevada.

9. The LINQ Promenade

The LINQ Promenade is a bustling open air district that offers a diverse array of attraction, from adrenaline pumping rides at the High Roller observation wheel, providing panoramic views of the dazzling cityscape, to live performances at the Brooklyn Bowl, where music enthusiast revel in unforgettable concerts.  Culinary delights await foodies at the wide selection of restaurants, while fashionistas can indulge or window shop in some retail therapy.   Whether you spend money on some of the fabulous attractions the LINQ offers or just revel in the ambiance of the outdoor atmosphere, this remains an unforgettable destination to visit along the Las Vegas Strip.

10. The Aquarium Mermaid Show at the Silverton 

This aquarium show is like no other in Las Vegas because it not only features thousands of tropical fish, but also live mermaids.  Ok, so they are not real mermaids but usually swimmers who specialize in synchronized swimming.  The performers, donning dazzling mermaid tails, gracefully glide through the massive 117,000 gallon aquarium, surrounded by a diverse array of marine life.  Their synchronized movements and interaction with the sea creatures create a magical spectacle that delights both young and old alike.  If watching mermaids is not enough for you and the kids, the Silverton also offers mermaid classes where you can actually swim in the famous aquarium just like the performers.  Although this is not free, it is sure to be one of the most unique experiences you could have.  The aquarium can be seen at the Silverton at all times, however the Mermaid show is limited to Thursdays through Sundays.  The mermaids do need to come up for air once in a while.

11. Lake of Dreams at Wynn

The Lake of Dreams at the Wynn Las Vegas is an enchanting spectacle that captivates visitors with its mesmerizing beauty and innovative design.  This stunning 5 acre lake offers a surreal experience, combining water, light music, and technology to create a truly magical ambiance.  As night falls, the lake transforms into a canvas for a series of captivating multimedia shows, where a 120 foot tall waterfall cascades down a 40 foot mountain, and over 5,500 lights dance in perfect harmony with a diverse selection of music.  Guests can enjoy this display from the lakeside terraces or from the comfort of one of the elegant restaurants or lounges overlooking the water.  The Lake of Dreams at the Wynn is a unique attraction that weaves together artistry and innovation, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience its enchanting allure.

12. Bellagio Conservatory

The Bellagio Conservatory, nestled within the iconic Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, is a captivating oasis that enchants visitors with its ever-changing displays of natural beauty.  A celebration of horticultural artistry, the Conservatory showcases meticulously crafted seasonal exhibits that transport guests into enchanted worlds.  Each exhibit is a symphony of colors, textures, and scents.  From blooming floral sculptures to towering, whimsical topiaries, the Conservatory’s displays evoke a sense of wonder and awe, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a realm where nature and creativity combine.  With its commitment to creating immersive experiences, the Bellagio Conservatory continues to be a must-visit destination, offering a respite of natural splendor amidst the vibrant energy of the Las Vegas Strip.

13. Red Rock Canyon

Just a short drive west of Las Vegas is a National Conservation Area that is free to explore know as the Red Rock Canyon.  If you enjoy outdoor activities of all kinds, this is a place you must visit.  There are no shortage of activities at Red Rock Canyon including hiking trails, rock climbing, biking, or just observing nature during a long scenic drive through the park that is 13 miles long.  For those seeking a break from Las Vegas during their vacation, or maybe a rest on the wallet, this natural sanctuary provides an opportunity to reconnect with mother nature. 

14. Hoover Dam

At Hoover Dam, marveling at its engineering isn’t the only rewarding experience, as visitors can also relish a plethora of free attractions.  Embark on a captivating journey through history at the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, where intriguing exhibits and informative films showcase the dam’s construction and significance.  Wander along the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River, providing an unparalleled vantage point for viewing.  Strolling across the majestic bridge offers an extraordinary opportunity to view the dam’s grandeur from a different perspective and even different time zones. With no cost attached to view this modern civil engineering marvel, the Hoover Dam will grant you a memorable and educational experience.

15. Hoover Dam

If you have visited the Hoover Dam, you are already at Lake Mead, however you may want to take a trip to some look out points around Lake Mead to really experience its beauty.  This vast man-made reservoir stretches over 100 miles and offs a myriad of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in aquatic adventures, from boating and fishing to swimming and water sports. Beyond its recreational allure and stunning views, Lake Mead serves as a vital water source, providing irrigation for agricultural lands and powering hydroelectricity to the surrounding communities. However, the lake’s water levels have faced challenges due to extended drought periods, causing the bathtub like rig that is hard to notice.  No worries though, it appears as of now that the levels of Lake Mead are projected to be rising again. 

• Gambling too much – This is easy for some and hard for others.  It is important to gamble only what you can afford to lose.  Otherwise, you may be one of the tragic cases in Vegas of chasing your loses.
• Street Solicitors – These people are around every corner, especially on the strip.  If you do not want to waste anyone’s time on a pitch for a time share or the best hand cream, politely just keep walking.  Most of these street solicitors do not take no for an answer until you walk away. 
• Accepting free tickets – There are plenty of free things in Las Vegas with no strings attached, but most people are not shoving the free stuff down your throat.  If someone is insisting that you take free show tickets, just remember… If it is too good to be true, it probably is.  There are often scams to get your information or will require you to sit through a 3 hour presentation with very aggressive sales people.
• Drinking too much – With complimentary drinks while you are gambling, sometimes you can drink more than you can handle.  It is important to try to pace yourself.  This will also keep you from over gambling, or getting out of hand and kicked out of a casino.
• Engaging in Illegal Activities – Las Vegas is a pretty liberal city and has earned the nick name “Sin City”.  There are plenty of things to do in Vegas you might not be able to do at home.  Marijuana is now legal to purchase in Las Vegas but be careful… you are still not allowed to consume it in any public space.  Another misconception about Vegas is that prostitution is legal.  While it is legal in the state of Nevada, it is strictly prohibited in Clark County.  Law enforcement run various operations to try to crack down on the solicitation of prostitution.  Just don’t do it.  If you feel like this is something you want to explore, it is important to travel outside of Clark County.
• Leaving items unattended – Your items can be stolen in the blink of an eye.  It only takes a few seconds with your head turned for your items or money in a machine to disappear. Thieves watch closely for tourists who are not paying attention and will target and follow them until they are able to steal something from you.  Pay attention, be aware, and keep your items close.  A popular recommendation for women is to always wear your purse across your body and not just on one shoulder.
• Wandering into unfamiliar neighborhoods – If you are not used to the desert, some things can look much closer than they are.  While the police in Vegas patrol the strip heavily, it is easy to wander away from the strip trying to get to something you can see.  However, getting there may take you through areas that are not safe and not heavily policed.  No one knows this better than the criminals who are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting and innocent tourists.