53 Cool Things to Do in Las Vegas (By a Local)

As the entertainment capital of the world, there’s an incredible number of things to do in Las Vegas. But don’t feel overwhelmed! I’m a local who can help you find the best attractions for you.

This guide highlights the best Vegas hotels, shows, and restaurants. I also cover where to indulge your vices in Sin City, like the top bars and nightclubs. Even families will find fun attractions! Here’s everything you won’t want to miss.

53 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Strip

Wander through the bright lights and casinos that make up Sin City.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Las Vegas Strip Walking Tour

The Las Vegas Strip is one of downtown’s most popular attractions. Key activities include the Bellagio fountain show, Caesar’s Palace, and the New York New York roller coaster. Las Vegas Boulevard also contains incredible restaurants and bars, and many of the best hotels and casinos.

Walking the Las Vegas Strip is completely free and you will get to see many incredible things that you might want to experience. From gambling in the casinos to dancing in one of the best clubs in Vegas, to diving into hotel pools, the list of things to do on the Strip is endless.

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Pose in front of the Fabulous Las Vegas welcome sign.

📍 Google Maps

Even people who have never been to Las Vegas have probably seen its iconic welcome sign in movies and shows. It is 25 feet tall and at night, it lights up with a gorgeous view of the Strip behind it.

The sign is one of the best free attractions in Las Vegas. It’s open year-round and is the perfect place to get those vacation photos in. There are often professional photographers around who charge money, but they might be helpful if you have a larger group.

High Roller

Ride the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel and get the best views in Las Vegas.

The High Roller Observation Wheel is the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel. It is in the center of the LINQ promenade. The Ferris wheel takes around 30 minutes to go around and once you are at the top, you will see stunning views of Las Vegas and its surrounding towns.

The High Roller also has the option to go in a wheel which has an open bar section. It costs an extra $30 (or you can get it included with a Go Las Vegas pass).

The LINQ promenade also has different places to shop, eat, and enjoy live music at the Brooklyn Bowl. Plus, the LINQ Hotel has a stunning pool on the second floor with all-day pool parties.

The STRAT

Enjoy a thrilling experience like no other at Las Vegas’ tallest building.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 998-6937 | Website | 👉 Book Your STRAT Admission Ticket

As the city’s tallest building, you can see the STRAT from almost wherever you are in Las Vegas. Walk around its observation deck and take photos with incredible views.

The STRAT also offers a variety of unique activities for those thrill-seekers out there. There are extreme rides at the top of the building which will dangle you over the Strip, slide you off the building, or shoot you up very fast.

Try bungee jumping from the very top of Las Vegas (an 855-foot platform) to the very bottom! At over $100, it’s not cheap. But here’s a tip: If you purchase a 3, 4, or 5-day Go Las Vegas all-inclusive pass, you can get the SkyJump included as your premium attraction.

To end the day, stop by the Top of The World restaurant for one of the most extraordinary fine dining experiences you will ever have. This restaurant has delicious food and while you are eating, it spins you slowly, offering panoramic views of the beautiful Strip.

AREA 15 & Omega Mart

Indulge your imagination in this unique art, music, and amusement playground.

A pathway with colorful lights at Omega Mart — *Omega Mart*

AREA 15 is an immersive playground with everything from virtual reality experiences to concerts and live shows. It also has rides, axe throwing, golfing, and awesome Las Vegas restaurants to try out.

One of the key attractions is Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart. It’s a cool immersive art experience where you can interact with the art by following a storyline. You can spend hours there without even seeing everything that there is to see.

It is free to walk around AREA 15, but many of the attractions and exhibits charge admission.

Neon Museum

Learn about all the neon lights in Las Vegas history.

The Neon Museum is home to iconic neon signs that have played a role in Las Vegas history. Daytime tickets to see the main signs and attractions are more affordable.

At night, tickets are more expensive because the signs light up and music plays to give you the full experience. This is an incredible place to take photos, and to learn about Sin City and its love for all things neon!

Hoover Dam

Explore one of the seven engineering wonders of the world.

The Hoover Dam is an engineering wonder because of the fascinating process it took to create it. It’s free to walk around certain areas, but you can take paid guided tours of the dam and power plant for more insight.

You will not regret going to see the Hoover Dam. It’s beautiful in the way that it has helped to fuel energy in Las Vegas and surrounding cities in Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Check out the beautiful natural red rocks that form this Las Vegas conservation area.

Red Rock Canyon is around a 30-minute drive from the Strip. It has incredible wildlife, beautiful mountains, and some of the best campsites near Las Vegas.

Consider taking a hiking tour with a knowledgeable guide or explore by e-bike, scooter, or AWD vehicle. If you want to try horseback riding through the mountains, Red Rock Canyon is the perfect place to do that, too.

You can also check out the Red Rock Canyon visitors’ centers, which feature incredible indoor and outdoor exhibits. If you don’t feel like walking around, there is a 13-mile scenic loop drive that will allow you to see all the gorgeous sights.

Death Valley National Park

Hike through beautiful landscapes at the closest national park to Las Vegas.

The hottest and lowest point in the United States is Death Valley National Park. This must-see destination is just across the border in California and around a two-hour drive from downtown Las Vegas.

Despite its intimidating name, Death Valley is a beautiful landscape with lovely scenery and wildlife. If you visit between February and April, you won’t be able to miss the vibrant desert wildflowers everywhere. Admire the scenery and be sure to take the easy hike to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

Grand Canyon National Park

Try rafting, walk on a glass bridge, and zipline through the Grand Canyon.

Travel Lemming Editor Abigail Bliss, admiring the magnificent views of the Grand Canyon — *Travel Lemming editor Abigail at the Grand Canyon*

The west rim of the Grand Canyon is a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. Whitewater rafting on the Colorado River is a very popular activity here, as are thrilling zipline rides. Alternative, you can simply hike and take photos at this iconic Arizona destination.

Want to shorten your commute? Book a helicopter tour to see Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam from above before touching down on the west rim. No matter the activity, you’re sure to have your breath taken away by the beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Valley of Fire

Hike in a historic park filled with petroglyphs and wildlife.

The gorgeous red mountains and sand formations at Valley of Fire are unforgettable. This state Park is only an hour from the city and features some of the best hikes near Las Vegas.

Atlatl Rock features ancient petroglyphs which are cool to see and try to figure out what they mean. Valley of Fire State Park is also known for its petrified wood logs from over 200 million years ago, which you will find at the entrances to the park.

The Fire Wave hike is one of the most popular in the park given its beauty and photo opportunities. No matter where you visit in the Valley of Fire, there are unique places to explore.

Zion National Park

Journey through a large canyon filled with beautiful pools and hiking trails.

Zion National Park in Utah is a beautiful place to visit and a must for nature lovers. It’s about 3 hours from the city, making it one of the best day trips from Las Vegas or even a nice weekend getaway.

Take a scenic drive through the canyon, along the Virgin River, and to popular hiking trails. The Riverside Walk and the Lower Emerald Pools Trail are easier hikes that lead to natural pools and waterfalls. The Narrows and Angels Landing are more difficult trails but are iconic to Zion National Park.

Las Vegas Attractions & Sites

Fashion Show Mall

Window shop and watch a free fashion show.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 784-7000 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu; 10 am – 9 pm Fri-Sat; 11 am – 7 pm Sun

Fashion Show Mall is on the Las Vegas Strip. It is a fantastic place to shop, eat, and even watch a live fashion show. During these events, a runaway comes out of the floor in the middle of the mall.

There is typically a free fashion show once a week, so check out its website or call to get more information. The mall is decorated seasonally, so the holidays are an especially pretty time to walk around and look at the decorations.

Tivoli Village

Feel as though you’ve stepped into another country while walking through this beautiful shopping mall.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 534-0000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu; 10 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat; 11 am – 6 pm Sun

Tivoli Village is an outdoor shopping mall in Summerlin, one of the best Las Vegas neighborhoods. It’s around a 20-minute drive from the Strip and has architecture inspired by buildings found in Italy.

There are many cute boutiques where you can do a little shopping. Tivoli Village also often has a farmers market where you can support local businesses by purchasing their handcrafted items.

There are also many fine dining options at Tivoli Village. This includes El Dorado, a fabulous Mexican restaurant. Thursday nights are Latin nights with live music and lots of dancing!

Paris Hotel

Have a romantic evening at celebrity restaurants with great views on the Eiffel Tower.

Clear blue sky over the Eiffel Tower replica — *Its replica Eiffel Tower is iconic to the Strip*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (877) 796-2096 | Website | 👉 Book the Eiffel Tower Experience

The Paris Hotel on the Strip has a huge Eiffel Tower replica in front of it. If you have always wanted to go to France, this is the next best thing (and one of the most Instagram-worthy things to do in Vegas).

The Eiffel Tower Experience takes you high above Sin City for incredible skyline views. It is known for being very romantic and visiting is one of the best date ideas in the city.

Paris also has some of the finest dining options on the Strip. This includes Nobu, Mon Ami Gabi, Gordon Ramsay Steak, and Vanderpump à Paris.

Mandalay Bay

Relax on the beach and lounge in the lazy river.

View from the Shark Reef Aquarium — *(photo: Kobby Dagan / Shutterstock)*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 632-7000 | Website

Mandalay Bay Resort has a variety of fun things to do. Its Shark Reef Aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals including sharks, stingrays, and endangered sea turtles. You can also feed the stingrays and sharks for an extra cost.

Its pool is also unique because it feels like you are at the beach. It even has a lazy river and a wave pool! Mandalay Bay often hosts concerts on the beach during the summertime, making you forget you are in the middle of the desert.

Want to see a Cirque Du Soleil show? Michael Jackson ONE takes place at this hotel and casino.

Lake Mead

Unwind on the water at Lake Mead.

If you want to spend a day out on the water, Lake Mead is the perfect place. It’s not too far away and a great place to beat the Vegas heat.

The stunning reservoir resulted from the creation of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. There are plenty of things to do including kayaking, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. Lake Mead also offers a dinner cruise where you can enjoy a delicious 3-course meal on the water.

Activities on land are plentiful, too. Consider an ATV tour of Lake Mead or take a beautiful hike. The Historic Railroad Trail takes you on a path through an abandoned railroad. The Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail is a more intense hike but the hot springs at the end are worth it!

👉 Pro Tip: Be sure to check trail conditions on the Lake Mead website because many of them close during the summer season due to heat.

Area 51

Endeavor on an alien hunt like no other.

📍 Google Maps | 👉Area 51 Day Tour from Las Vegas

Area 51 is a highly classified Air Force Facility that has been the heart of many alien conspiracies due to its purported UFO sightings. Unfortunately, government officials are the only people permitted inside, so you can’t get too close.

But you can cruise down the Extraterrestrial Highway and stop by the Black Mailbox to try spotting a UFO in the sky. Check out the Alien Center on your journey for themed souvenirs or to grab an original Area 51 meal.

If you want the full experience, take the Area 51 day tour to learn about all the places of meaning and the full history of the facility.

The Escape Game Las Vegas

Break out of prison, join an art heist, and strike gold at Escape Game Las Vegas.

The author Isabelle Pavese holding an artwork inside The Heist escape room — *Me holding up the missing artwork after completing The Heist escape room!*

The Escape Game has locations at the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace on the Las Vegas Strip. Book one of its missions and try to escape by solving a multitude of puzzles as a group.

There are a variety of rooms with varying difficulty levels. These include Prison Break, Gold Rush, and The Heist. I tried The Heist escape room and it is the best one I have ever done. The mission is very intricate with many different parts, but you can always ask the friendly staff for clues if you need help.

Be sure to book tickets in advance, because the games tend to fill up very fast!

Dig This

Bulldoze your way through this heavy equipment playground.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 268-2907 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: Prices vary

Dig This is a unique amusement park where you can crush cars, operate bulldozers, and drive around excavators in the desert. It even has excavators that are kid-sized so everyone in the family can join in on the fun.

The different experiences range in pricing. Priced at $195, the cheapest one involves driving a skid steer track loader. Most experiences last anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half, so you can make the most of your purchase.

Wreck Room

Let your rage out in this all-inclusive Wreck Room.

Wreck Room is the perfect place to let off some steam. This unique place gives you a variety of items and tools to break, smash, or wreck absolutely everything.

It cleans up after you, so there’s no stress in making a giant mess. You are also guaranteed a private room when you book with Wreck Room, so there are no strangers to judge if things get pretty wild!

Topgolf

Play a friendly game of golf with amazing views of the Las Vegas Strip.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 933-8458 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 1 am Sun-Thu; 9 am – 2 am Fri & Sat | Entrance: Varies

Topgolf is a fun experience for everyone, even if you have never played golf before. This location is just off the Las Vegas Strip, allowing you to see the bright neon lights and casinos while enjoying a game.

Up high on an elevated platform, golfers try to land balls into any of the huge holes on the ground. The vibe is laid back, and Topgolf keeps track of the score for you using advanced technology.

Prices differ depending on what day of the week you go, and also the times that you choose to go. If you are looking for a cheaper option, go on Mondays through Thursdays from 10 am to 12 pm. If you are 21 and older, you can also swim at its unique Hideaway Pool.

Axehole Las Vegas

Stop at this unique Las Vegas attraction while cruising down Fremont Street.

Axehole along Fremont Street is a great place to have some fun with a beer in hand. Book this experience to learn how to throw things like axes, ninja stars, spears, and shovels. This attraction also features its own Smash Room where you can relieve stress by breaking a handful of items.

Las Vegas Museums & Culture

Mob Museum

Find yourself immersed in the world of organized crime.

The Mob Museum is officially named the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. Artifacts and immersive experiences explore the history of organized crime and what impacts it had on American society.

General admission tickets will give you an all-day pass to the exhibits, while the deluxe pass includes an interactive exhibit. The interactive exhibits include the crime lab, the distillery tour and tasting, and a firearm training simulator.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Get up close and personal with life-size wax figures of your favorite celebrities.

A waxwork of the Rat Pack at The Madame Tussauds museum in Las Vegas — *Wax figures of the Rat Pack* (photo: Kobby Dagan / Shutterstock.com)

I don’t know about you, but meeting a celebrity has always been on my bucket list. Madame Tussauds may be the closest thing! This museum in the Venetian Resort features lifelike wax figures of over 100 celebrities. Actors, musicians, and athletes appear at Madame Tussauds.

Madame Tussauds also features a rooftop Hangover Bar, which is an interactive experience based on The Hangover movies. There’s also a 4D Marvel Universe exhibit where you will experience the world of superheroes with all kinds of special effects.

You can also add a gondola ride to your Madame Tussauds admission ticket. Who knows — while you are there, you might bump into one of the real celebrities!

Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

Join the paranormal in this museum with haunted artifacts.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 444-0744 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10 pm Wed-Mon; Closed Tues | Entrance: $54+ per person

Those visiting Las Vegas who are into the paranormal can’t miss Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum. It’s not for the faint of heart, as it is inside of a haunted mansion from 1938. You may recognize the name Zak Bagans from the popular show Ghost Adventures on Travel Channel.

There are over 30 different rooms with famous haunted items like the Dybbuk Box and Dr. Kevorkian’s death van. Many people have claimed to see figures of people haunting the museum while they were walking around.

If you’re feeling brave, you can try its late-night flashlight ghost tour which allows you to roam the hallways in the dark with a few other people.

Atomic Museum

Learn the history of nuclear weapons at the only atomic museum in the United States.

View from the inside of National Atomic Testing Museum — *(photo: Kit Leong / Shutterstock)*

The Atomic Museum has different exhibits and artifacts to help people learn about the history of nuclear weapons. You will see equipment from testing sites and can participate in interactive exhibits. You will also learn about the impact atomic testing had on Las Vegas in the past and more about why Nevada played a huge role in nuclear weapon testing.

Clark County Museum

Expand your knowledge about the history of Southern Nevada.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 455-7955 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: free

The Clark County Museum lets you explore the history of places in southern Nevada including Boulder City and Las Vegas.

Heritage Street features historic houses which are set up to show you different points of history. Walk through its mining exhibit to see different minerals and even parts of an old ghost town. The gaming and entertainment history of Las Vegas is also one of the main attractions.

Las Vegas Food & Drink

BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark

Experience an unforgettable night of fine dining.

Blackout Dining in the Dark is an extremely unique restaurant where you eat your meal in the dark. It is a great opportunity to go off the grid for a short period of time because it requires electronics to be in secure lockers during the meal.

The price may seem high, but it includes a delicious 7-course meal. The experience lasts for around an hour and a half, and once it is over, your server will reveal the meals that you ate. The goal of this restaurant is to allow you to heighten your sense of taste and smell, changing the way you experience food.

Make sure to make reservations in advance, because they usually fill up extremely quickly. For more insight into the experience, TL writer Jess wrote about what Dining in the Dark was like when she did a similar experience in San Diego.

🍽️ Love dining experiences? Join one of these food tours to enjoy the Las Vegas restaurant scene.

Bazaar Meat

Indulge in a delicious meal created by Michelin-starred Chef José Andrés.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 607-6328 | Website | Hours: 5 pm – 10 pm Sun-Thu; 4:30 pm – 10:30 pm Fri-Sat

Las Vegas has a variety of celebrity chef restaurants, including Bazaar Meat inside the Sahara hotel. Owned by chef José Andrés, this restaurant has won several awards and praises.

As you can tell by the name, the main items featured on this menu are meat-based. This restaurant is on the more expensive side so prepare to spend a good chunk of money.

Minus5 ICEBAR

Enjoy a chilling experience in this bar where even your cups are ice.

Minus5 ICEBAR is a unique bar where everything, even your chairs, are ice. The cool thing about this bar is that people of all ages are welcome.

You will see incredible ice sculptures in different ice-themed rooms. With your general admission ticket, you will get gloves and a parka so you can stay warm. There are also other types of tickets you can buy, with some of them including drinks, photos, and souvenirs.

There are three locations in Las Vegas: one in the LINQ Promenade, one in the Venetian, and one which is in Mandalay Bay.

Dave & Buster’s

Play arcade games, check out the sports bar, and eat dinner.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 984-4800 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 12 am Mon & Tue; 11 am – 1 am Wed-Fri; 10 am – 1 am Sat; 10 am – 12 am Sun

Dave & Buster’s is not your typical restaurant or bar, because its main allure is that it is a huge arcade. Of course, you can sit at the bar and watch sports or dine in the restaurant area, but you can also play a variety of games while you are there.

Games cost anywhere from $15 and up depending on how much time you plan to spend in the arcade. Anyone under the age of 18 is only welcome if they are with an adult who is over the age of 25 years old.

Las Vegas Nightlife

Fremont Street Experience

See the bright light shows, live entertainment, and classic hotels on Fremont Street.

📍 Google Maps

Fremont Street is where what we now know as Sin City all began. The oldest casino in Las Vegas, Golden Gate Hotel and Casino, is still standing to this day. You will also find one of the newest adults-only hotels on Fremont Street, Circa.

Gold Spike is a hip bar with games like giant beer pong and foosball, and it is very popular on Fremont Street. The Nerd is a huge video game and arcade bar guaranteed to be an insane amount of fun.

Fremont Street offers nightly live entertainment for free, and it also has incredible light shows every night. It’s the perfect place to go for people seeking fun nightlife without having to go to a nightclub.

The Chandelier Bar

Surround yourself with a magnificent chandelier while drinking handcrafted cocktails.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 698-7000 | Website | Hours: 24/7

The Chandelier at the Cosmopolitan Hotel is one of the coolest bars in Vegas. This three-level bar is set within a 44-foot chandelier. Each level of the bar makes you feel like you are somewhere different.

The first level of the bar is in the middle of the casino so it has more of a lounge feel. Level 1.5 is more hidden and makes you feel like you are inside of the chandelier. Level two is another lounge with lots of seating.

The Verbena is the most popular drink at this bar, and even though it is not officially on the menu, you can still order it. This drink is unique because it features a tiny flower that numbs your tongue and allows your tastebuds to experience the drink in a different way.

Party Bus Tours

Travel Las Vegas Boulevard in style.

View from the inside of a Party Bus in Las Vegas

👉 Browse Party Bus Tours

Jumping on a party bus is sure to give you an unforgettable experience! You can rent a private party bus if you have your own itinerary, but it is much cheaper to do the party bus tours.

Some of the party bus tours you can go on include nightclub or day club crawls, bar crawls, or even just tours of Las Vegas Boulevard. Most of these tours will also include admission to nightclubs or day clubs with the price of the party bus.

Caesars Palace

Visit one of the most famous hotels in Vegas.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (866) 227-5938 | Website

Caesars Palace is a luxury hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. It’s famous for appearances in movies like The Hangover and Iron Man. The hotel’s iconic restaurant, Guy Savoy, is the only restaurant in America by the namesake celebrity chef.

Caesars Palace also has breathtaking architecture and five different beautiful pools. The Forum Shops inside Caesars include luxury and designer brands for you to browse or indulge in a shopping spree. OMNIA nightclub, one of the best clubs in Las Vegas, is also located inside Caesars Palace.

Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub

Party at one of the best Las Vegas clubs.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 777-3800 | Website | Entrance: $20+ women, $30+ men

Vegas is synonymous with nightlife and Drai’s is definitely one of the best clubs in town. The club is two stories high and the top level is actually on the roof of The Cromwell, so you get to see the beautiful lights in the city while partying.

Drai’s is set apart from other clubs because it always has famous musicians and DJs that give full-length concerts. During the day, you can enjoy the party and music while also swimming and getting sun. Then, you can dance the night away.

👉 Pro Tip: Be sure to check the dress code before going out, as most clubs in Las Vegas will not allow people to wear jeans, pants, or torn clothes.

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas

Bellagio Hotel

See the spectacular fountain shows at Bellagio Hotel.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 987-6667 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

The Bellagio Hotel took its inspiration from a small village in Lombardy, Italy. The main attraction is the Bellagio Fountains which have incredible free fountain shows almost every 30 minutes. Another free and beautiful thing to see while at the Bellagio is its indoor botanical gardens, which change with every season.

The Bellagio also has a bakery with a 27-foot-tall chocolate fountain. If you’re open to spending a little money, it has some of the best desserts in Las Vegas and a delicious breakfast pastry selection.

“O” by Cirque Du Soleil is also hosted inside the Bellagio and is one of the most famous shows in Las Vegas!

Arts District

Get lost in a community with art, shops, and restaurants.

📍 Google Maps

The Arts District is just a 5-minute drive away from downtown Las Vegas, but it is one of those hidden gems that not everyone knows about. Here, you will find a unique vibe unlike anywhere else in the city.

This district has gorgeous art murals all over the place, each painted by local artists. You can take all the photos you want! It also has quite a selection of thrift stores, including Buffalo Exchange and Alt Rebel.

On the first Friday of every month, the Arts District hosts one of the best Las Vegas festivals. It includes food trucks, local artists, and live music.

There are also many delicious places to eat and drink in the Arts District. The Velveteen Rabbit is one of the best places to go in Las Vegas for cocktails, and there are also several local craft breweries.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden

Get an inside peek at the creation of their delicious chocolates and sweets.

View from the inside of the Ethel M Chocolate Factory — *(photo: Kit Leong / Shutterstock)*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 435-2608 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: Free

If you have a sweet tooth, head over to Ethel M Chocolate Factory to take a free self-guided tour. You will get a chance to see the kitchens where chefs prepare the chocolates, fillings, and other tasty treats. It often offers chocolate tasting classes and special events, too, like chocolate and wine pairings.

At Ethel M Chocolate Factory, you will also find the largest cactus garden in the Southwest. After touring the factory, be sure to take a stroll through the garden to view the many different cacti and succulents. During the holiday season, the cactus garden features a beautiful arrangement of lights.

Seven Magic Mountains

Check out this unique and free art exhibit in the middle of the Las Vegas desert.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 381-5182 | Website | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

If you are looking for the perfect place to take photos, trust me when I say this is it. Seven Magic Mountains is a one-of-a-kind art exhibit in the middle of the desert. It has become so popular that instead of being a limited exhibit, it is in Las Vegas to stay.

Even though it is very popular, it is not always crowded and people are always pretty nice about letting each other take photos. This is an extremely cool art piece, and if you get the chance, it is definitely worth seeing.

M&M’S Store Las Vegas

Explore four floors filled with every kind of M&M candy you could imagine and more.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 740-2504 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 12 am daily | Entrance: Free

The M&M Las Vegas store was the brand’s first retail store to ever open. There are all kinds of different flavors of M&Ms here that you would never think existed.

All the souvenirs are also M&M-related, so it is the perfect place for anyone who loves this candy. You can even customize your own M&Ms to include any messages or colors that you want.

If you’re lucky, you might even find an M&M character walking around for the perfect photo-op. It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Vegas.

Things to Do in Vegas with Kids

Coca Cola Store

Taste test sodas from different countries.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 232-9792 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 11 pm daily | Entrance: Free

The Coca Cola Store is right in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip. You cannot miss it with the massive soda bottle right in front of it. This is the perfect place to bring your kids.

Try a flavor tour of 16 sodas from different countries. You might also catch a glimpse of its famous polar bear walking around!

👉 Want More Family-Friendly Activities? Check out my full guide to 27 things to do with kids in Vegas!

Adventuredome

Ride the only indoor double-loop roller coaster in the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 794-3939 | Website | Hours: Varies per day | Entrance: $60+ adults, $30+ under 48” tall

Adventuredome has theme park activities for all ages, away from the Las Vegas heat. There are rides specifically made for children and for adults. Silly clown shows may pop up at any moment during your time at the Adventuredome, so get ready to laugh.

Enjoy the arcade, mini golf, or even a 4D show when you are at the Adventuredome in Las Vegas. If you visit during Halloween, this place turns into a massive haunted house called Frightdome.

Lion Habitat Ranch

Marvel at some of the world’s most majestic animals.

The Lion Habitat Ranch is home to over 20 lions, Nevada’s only giraffe, ostriches, and exotic birds. Ozzie the Giraffe even paints pictures every 30 minutes, which is a show you get to see for free with admission tickets.

You might also want to purchase separate tickets to feed Ozzie or even get a chance to feed the lions. But even if you don’t pay to feed the animals yourself, the employees are very kind and they will feed them so you can see them up close.

Springs Preserve

Learn about Nevada history, see wildlife, and take a train ride through the birthplace of Las Vegas.

Springs Preserve aims to teach people about the history of Las Vegas and ways to improve its future. You can take a real train ride and visit two museums in the preserve: the Origen Museum and Nevada State Museum. To learn more about the city in the early days, wander the recreated village of Boomtown 1905.

In the spring and fall seasons, Springs Preserve has a butterfly habitat. There is also a botanical garden which is incredible to walk through, along with several miles of trails.

Cowabunga Canyon Water Park

Have a family fun day with exciting water slides.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (725) 267-2277 | Website | Hours: Open summer only, hours vary | Entrance: $39.99+ adults, $29.99 under 42” tall, free under 3

There are thrilling water slides and attractions made for all ages at Cowabunga Canyon. It has a huge water slide called Deuces Wild that drops you straight down. Note that it may be a little bit intimidating for those with a fear of heights.

For children, Cowabunga Canyon has a huge splash pad called Buckaroo Bay which could keep them entertained all day. You will also find a wave pool which is fun to hang out in, and a regular pool if you just feel like swimming and relaxing.

If you want to purchase a cabana by the pool, Cowabunga Canyon has those available as well. There are also food and beverage options to keep you hydrated and full throughout the day.

Mini Grand Prix

Try a friendly go-kart race with the whole family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 259-7000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 10 pm Sun-Thurs; 10 am – 11 pm Fri-Sat |👉 Get Go Kart Race Tickets

The Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix is popular because of its outdoor go-kart racing track where even kids can take turns on the track. It also has rides like its dragon roller coaster and fun slide which are perfect for those who are too young to enjoy the more intense rides.

Inside, there are many different arcade games to enjoy which makes for a super fun family night. There is also pizza, drinks, and sandwiches if you get hungry after all of that go-kart racing!

Red Rock Casino

Go bowling, watch movies, and play in the arcade with your family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 797-7777 | Website | 👉 Book Red Rock Casino on Hotels.com

Red Rock Casino is one of the best places to stay in Las Vegas if you are traveling with children. It’s also a great place to bring kids even if you are not staying there.

The hotel includes a bowling alley, movie theater, arcade, and even a place to watch your kids while you go exploring for a few hours. There is also a beautiful outdoor pool area, which is fun for everyone.

Many hotels on the Las Vegas Strip offer a few amenities like these for children, but Red Rock Casino has it all, making it the best place to stay for families.

Downtown Summerlin

Browse the shops and be a part of the awesome local Las Vegas community.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 832-1000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Thu; 10 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat; 11 am – 7 pm Sun

Summerlin is one of the best Las Vegas suburbs. Its downtown outdoor shopping mall is within a short walking distance of Red Rock Casino.

There is a great community feeling in downtown Summerlin because there are always activities for everyone to enjoy. While you may just want to browse the shops or grab a bite to eat at some of its incredible restaurants, there is so much more to do.

Every Saturday, it hosts a farmers market where you can get fresh produce and browse other local goods. During October last year, it hosted a haunted parade. There was music and locals dressed up to put on a show.

Downtown Summerlin did the same thing during the holidays, and it was free to attend for all. There’s also a fun ice skating rink during this season, complete with music and hot chocolate for if you get cold.

Las Vegas Ballpark

Experience fun outdoor activities for every season.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 943-7200 | Website

The Las Vegas Ballpark is home to the Aviators baseball team, and it has family-friendly activities for all seasons. Plus, it’s within walking distance of Red Rock Hotel, downtown Summerlin, and other attractions.

During baseball season, the main attraction is the Las Vegas Aviators games, which are fun to attend for everyone. In the stadium, there is even a pool that everyone can use and it overlooks the ballpark with incredible views.

During the summertime, the Las Vegas Ballpark hosts affordable movie nights where you can sit on the grass in the ballpark and watch a movie under the stars on the big screen. Last winter, it even had a winter wonderland where you could go ice skating, find your way through a light maze, and take photos with Santa.

Gilcrease Orchard

Pick your own fruits and vegetables.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Phone: (702) 409-0655 | Hours: various by season, see website | Entrance: Free

Gilcrease Orchard is 60 acres of farming land with different fruits and vegetables ready to pick. The entrance to the orchard is free, so you only pay for what you pick. It also has pre-picked produce if you want fresh vegetables without doing all the work to find them.

This orchard makes for a great date or family day in Las Vegas because you get to bond while choosing the best-looking produce. During the fall, Gilcrease Orchard also has a huge pumpkin patch, plus freshly-made apple cider and hay mazes.

Mount Charleston

Try horseback riding, sleigh rides, and incredible picnics on Mount Charleston.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (702) 872-5486 | Website

Mount Charleston is a great place to escape the heat of the Las Vegas desert. During the summer seasons, it is around 30 degrees cooler than the rest of the city. Plus, there is almost always snow on the mountains in the winter.

The snow that piles makes for a bunch of exciting winter activities like skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in Lee Canyon. Sleigh rides are often offered in the winter, which is a very unique and cute experience.

If you go to Mt. Charleston during a season where there is not a lot of snow, you can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and picnics with unparalleled scenery.

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Thanks for reading — now you know what to do in Las Vegas! If you’re on an epic road trip through the West, be sure to see our guide on where to stay near the Grand Canyon next.

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53 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Strip

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

High Roller

The STRAT

AREA 15 & Omega Mart

Neon Museum

Hoover Dam

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Death Valley National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Valley of Fire

Zion National Park

Las Vegas Attractions & Sites

Fashion Show Mall

Tivoli Village

Paris Hotel

Mandalay Bay

Lake Mead

Area 51

The Escape Game Las Vegas

Dig This

Wreck Room

Topgolf

Axehole Las Vegas

Las Vegas Museums & Culture

Mob Museum

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum

Atomic Museum

Clark County Museum

Las Vegas Food & Drink

BLACKOUT Dining in the Dark

Bazaar Meat

Minus5 ICEBAR

Dave & Buster’s

Las Vegas Nightlife

Fremont Street Experience

The Chandelier Bar

Party Bus Tours

Caesars Palace

Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas

Bellagio Hotel

Arts District

Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden

Seven Magic Mountains

M&M’S Store Las Vegas

Things to Do in Vegas with Kids

Coca Cola Store

Adventuredome

Lion Habitat Ranch

Springs Preserve

Cowabunga Canyon Water Park

Mini Grand Prix

Red Rock Casino

Downtown Summerlin

Las Vegas Ballpark

Gilcrease Orchard

Mount Charleston

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