Just as the US is a melting pot for different types of people, Vegas is the melting pot of all of the activities you could probably think of, and then some you could never imagine.   Whether you are going for the first time or have traveled to Vegas multiple times, there is always going to be something new to try.

Whether you are a thrill seeker and want to jump off of a building or a foodie who is content with their feet on the ground, trying all forms of new cuisines, you will always find something that peeks your interest. 

I hope that this site can give you some insight into everything to do in Vegas, especially if it is your first time.  I will try to give you honest reviews of the vast amount of activities and share some tips and tricks for saving money while you are there.  Hopefully the money you save doesn’t go to the house. 

1. Skydiving Over the Mojave Desert

For those who seek the ultimate rush of freefalling, Las Vegas offers a unique opportunity to experience skydiving over the stunning Mojave Desert landscape. Imagine soaring at thousands of feet above the ground, with the breathtaking panorama of the desert below and the city’s skyline in the distance. Several skydiving centers around Las Vegas offer tandem jumps, allowing beginners to experience the thrill under the guidance of experienced instructors.

2. Stratosphere Tower Rides

The Stratosphere Tower, a defining feature of the Las Vegas skyline, boasts a collection of nerve-wracking rides that dangle you off the edge of the tower, hundreds of feet above the ground. The “Big Shot” launches you 1,081 feet into the air, the “X-Scream” teeters you over the edge, and the “Insanity” ride spins you at an angle that will test even the bravest of souls.

3. Exhilarating Off-Road Dune Buggy Adventure

Venture just beyond the city limits and find yourself amidst the rugged terrain of the Mojave Desert. Experience an off-road dune buggy adventure that will have you racing over sand dunes, navigating rocky trails, and even splashing through water crossings. These guided tours provide an adrenaline-pumping experience while showcasing the natural beauty of the desert landscape.

4. Indoor Skydiving at Vegas Indoor Skydiving

If you’re intrigued by the idea of skydiving but prefer to keep your feet a bit closer to the ground, indoor skydiving at Vegas Indoor Skydiving might be just the ticket. Experience the sensation of freefalling in a vertical wind tunnel, allowing you to float effortlessly in midair. This controlled environment is perfect for both beginners and experienced skydivers.

5. High-Speed Exotic Car Racing

For those with a need for speed, Las Vegas offers the opportunity to drive some of the world’s most exotic cars on a racetrack. Feel the power of a Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche, or other high-performance vehicles as you zoom around the track under the guidance of professional instructors. It’s a chance to fulfill your racing dreams in a safe and controlled environment.

6. SlotZilla Zipline on Fremont Street

Experience the thrill of ziplining through the heart of downtown Las Vegas on the SlotZilla Zipline. Choose between the lower Zipline that sends you flying halfway down the iconic Fremont Street or the upper Zoomline that launches you from a height of 114 feet, allowing you to soar beneath the dazzling light canopy.

Las Vegas is not only a city of glitz and glamour but also a paradise for thrill-seekers. With its diverse range of heart-pounding activities, from skydiving over the Mojave Desert to racing exotic cars on a track, the city offers an unforgettable adventure for those who crave excitement. So, whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or someone looking to step out of your comfort zone, Las Vegas has an abundance of experiences that will make your heart race and your spirits soar.

1. Blackjack: Blackjack offers one of the best odds in the casino, especially if you’re familiar with basic strategy. The house edge can be as low as around 0.5% or even lower if you play optimally.
2. Craps: Craps can have a low house edge if you stick to the “Pass” and “Don’t Pass” bets. These bets have a house edge of around 1.41% and 1.36% respectively.
3. Baccarat: Baccarat is known for having a simple gameplay and relatively low house edge. The house edge on the banker bet is about 1.06%, while the player bet is around 1.24%.
4. Video Poker: Certain variations of video poker, like Jacks or Better, can offer good odds if you use the right strategy. The house edge can be around 0.5% or lower with proper play.
5. Single Zero Roulette: While traditional double zero roulette has a higher house edge, playing on a single zero roulette wheel reduces the edge. European Roulette, with its single zero, has a house edge of around 2.7%.
6. Sports Betting: While not a traditional casino game, sports betting can offer better odds if you’re knowledgeable about sports. Keep in mind that sportsbooks take a small percentage, known as the “vig” or “juice,” which is their profit.

It’s important to remember that these odds can vary based on factors such as your skill level, strategy, and the specific rules of the game you’re playing. While these games might offer better odds, gambling is still a form of entertainment, and it’s important to set limits and gamble responsibly.

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. 

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.

Walking is of course the cheapest mode of transportation in any city however, there are reasons that this might not always be the best choice in Las Vegas. Depending on the time of year, the desert heat might not permit a stroll down the street without some air conditioning.  You also might have opted to stay off the strip, and if this is the case, your desired destination might not be reachable just by simply walking.  However, if your destination is close enough to walk to, depending on your limitation, I highly recommend it.  There is so much more to see in Las Vegas when you walk. 

Hotel Courtesy Vehicle

It used to be common for resorts to offer free shuttle service to and from the airport.  Unfortunately, this is a dying courtesy in Las Vegas but still does exist at some hotels, primarily off the strip, unless you are a high roller.  Always call your hotel and do not be afraid to ask if this is a service they provide. If it is, make sure you have your itinerary ready, as this service usually needs to be planned ahead of time.

Loop Network

This is Elon Musk’s new tunnel system comprised of you guessed it, Teslas. If you are traveling to Las Vegas for a Convention, you will be able to take advance of this system within the convention center free of charge, if you show your convention badge.  However, this system is still limited at the moment and will only currently take you outside the convention center to the new Resorts World for a small fee under $5.  This system does seem like a quiet and effortless way to get around Las Vegas with all the expansions planned, but for the moment, we will have to wait for the tunnels to be built.

Monorail

The Monorail is by far the easiest way to get up and down the strip.  With seven different stops from Sahara Blvd the entire way to Tropicana Blvd and a train that comes on average of every eight minutes, this can be the least congested and fastest way to get to different spots on the strip.  The cost is minimal compared to other methods of transportation in Las Vegas.  For example, a 1-day pass is under $15, while one taxi ride could cost more than this.  If you plan ahead and buy online, the fare is even cheaper.  You an even get discounts for purchasing a several days pass. 

Current Station Locations:

• MGM Grand Station
  • Horseshoe/Paris Station
  • Flamingo/Ceasars Palace Station
  • Harrah’s/The LINQ Station
  • Boingo Station at the Las Vegas Convention Center
  • Westgate Station
  • Sahara Las Vegas Station

Note: If you are on the other side of Tropicana, there is also a free shuttle that goes from the Luxor to Mandala Bay.  

Rideshare

By now I am sure you have heard of Uber or Lyft.  These are the most popular rideshare companies right now. If you are not quite sure what rideshares are, they are private individuals driving their own vehicles to transport you to your destination. Rideshares provide you with a way to get from point A to point B quickly, without additional stops or extra walking along the way.  Traditionally in Las Vegas, rideshares are significantly cheaper than the alternate taxi.  So, if you are able to navigate an easy to explain app on your phone, you should head to the closest rideshare pick up spot and request a ride through a rideshare app of your choice. The only downfall of using rideshare is that you will have to wait for you car.  This can be eliminated by planning ahead and ordering your ride before you head to your pick up spot.  

Car Rental

If you are planning to travel off the Strip, a car rental can come in handy, and be one of the cheapest ways to travel if you are moving around a lot.  There are plenty of websites such as Priceline, Expedia, ect., that can help you plan this in advance.  I personally use the website AUTOSLASH.com because it always gives me the cheapest rates, has free cancellations if you find a better deal, and will even notify you if there are cheaper prices, if you chose.  Even after you book, you may want to continue to search, as expected demands might change and prices may fall.

Taxi

If you are not handy with your smartphone, or do not have a smartphone (yes, some people still do not… but they probably are not reading this), then a taxi might be your cheapest alternative.  Taxis are pretty self-explanatory, but for the fact that in Las Vegas, and especially on the strip, downtown or a casino off the strip, they are only allowed to pick you up in designated places.  They are not allowed to just pull over anywhere that someone is trying to flag them down.  This place is usually one of the main entrances and will be easy to spot as most of the time, there are taxis lined up at the ready.  On top of the higher expense of taxis, if you use a credit card, there will be an up charge.

Black Car/Limo

This is probably one of the most expensive transportation options in Las Vegas.  I am guessing if you are reading this, that you are not that familiar with car services.  These are high luxury autos that come with a driver and can be reserved for a simple trip from the airport to an all day excursion.  Most often these automobiles are always black, whether it is a Cadillac Escalade or a Mercedes Sprinter, which is why the car service rental business has been known as getting a “black car”.  There are plenty of these in Las Vegas that if you want to splurge, you can go online and book.  Or if you want to try to get a discount, you can negotiate at the airport if you arrive when they are not busy.  Some business is better than no business sometimes.

• 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.