12 Best Things To Do in Las Vegas, Nevada

The top things to do in Las Vegas include zip-lining in Area 15 and entering a trance at the Sphere. Needless to say, there’s more than just losing your life savings in ‘Sin City’.

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the world’s most popular destinations, with over 40 million visitors annually. It started as a desert oasis close to the Hoover Dam and several military bases. It grew as an entertainment capital, attracting hotel and casino developers and of course, the mob.

Today the city has moved away from its outlaw past. No matter how old you are, you can find plenty of activities, year-round nice weather, and endless adventures.

To create the ultimate Las Vegas bucket list, we compiled Google’s highest-rated experiences and the most visited destinations. Below are the top 12 things to see and experience in fabulous Las Vegas.

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

Which of these Vegas adventures would make you feel less like a tourist and more like a legend?

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada See a Show at The Sphere

Get lost in The Sphere 1/5

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada See Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil thrills 2/5

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada Take a Selfie in Front of the Bellagio

Selfie at Bellagio fountains 3/5

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada Party at Area 15

Zip-line at Area 15 4/5

Top Things to Do in Las Vegas, Nevada Visit the Hoover Dam

Visit the Hoover Dam 5/5

Results

Get lost in The Sphere

2 0

Cirque du Soleil thrills

2 0

Selfie at Bellagio fountains

2 0

Zip-line at Area 15

1 1

Visit the Hoover Dam

2 0

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In a Nutshell

Top Hotels

Luxury: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Midrange: Hilton Vacation Club Desert Retreat Las Vegas
Budget: My Place Hotel-North Las Vegas

Top Activities

See a show at The Sphere
Visit the Hoover Dam
Party at Area 15

Visit the Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is still one of the top things to see in Las Vegas. It was completed in 1935 and was the tallest dam in the world. It controls the mighty Colorado River’s flow and provides electricity to over 1 million people.

The monument is one of the US’ Modern Civil Engineering Wonders and well-wroth seeing. When you visit, you can gaze over the side of the dam over 700 feet below at the Colorado River.

Sign up for an official tour to learn about its history and purpose from an expert. You’ll go inside the dam and get up close to its engines and mechanics. From hidden tunnels to an incredibly detailed museum, this experience is a must for everyone.

Travel Tips

Bring Water and Snacks: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and pack some snacks to keep your energy up while you explore.
Plan Your Visit: The best times to go are spring or fall when temperatures are milder.

See a Show at The Sphere

The Sphere is a must-have experience. You’ll step inside a giant sphere that spirals 366 feet high and over 500 feet wide. Its walls are covered with almost 800,000 square feet of LED screens both inside and outside.

The venue hosts sporting events, shows, and concerts by some of the world’s best artists. You’ll experience everything from UFC fights to Grateful Dead shows. There are also science-themed immersive shows that take you from our oceans to space.

The Sphere opened in 2023 and quickly became one of the city’s top sights. Book your tickets early because this venue fills up quicker than a Vegas wedding chapel.

Travel Tips

Choose Your Seats Wisely: When booking tickets, aim for seats in the middle section for the best viewing experience.
Bring a Small Bag: Since there are size restrictions on bags, bring a small purse or backpack for essentials like your phone and wallet.

Party at Area 15

Area 15 is a place where you can throw axes, dance all night, zip-line, and pretty much live like you’re in a dream. Unlike nearby Area 51, you probably won’t see aliens, even though people will be dressed otherworldly.

This massive entertainment space contains a huge range of activities and experiences. Do you want to go zip-lining through immersive spaces or challenge your friends to a laser maze? There are even art galleries and live performances.

Check their website for live events and concerts. Book your tickets early because this exciting space sells out quickly.

Travel Tips

Check Event Schedules: Before visiting Area 15, check their website for event schedules and special performances.
Consider a Day Pass: This can save you money compared to buying individual tickets for each experience.

See Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil is a timeless show that is a must if you’re in Vegas. You’ll get to experience several shows at Las Vegas’ top casinos and resorts.

From Michal Jackson-themed danceoffs to surreal performances, the shows capture your imagination and don’t let go. Each show features world-class talent and death-defying stunts.

Book the show ahead of time to get the best seats. Don’t be afraid to check out several shows during your trip. It’ll be worth your time.

Travel Tips

Dress Comfortably but Stylishly: Wear something that makes you feel good but also allows you to sit comfortably for the duration of the performance.
Arrive Early: This gives you time to enjoy any pre-show activities, grab a drink, and find your seat without rushing.

Take a Selfie in Front of the Bellagio

The Bellagio is a classic hotel and one of the city’s must-see landmarks. When you arrive, why not grab a selfie in front of its iconic fountains?

There are over 1,000 fountains that shoot water high into the sky. Each stream of water dances to the beat of famous songs and timeless melodies. Catch it every half hour to 15 minutes before midnight.

If you can, try staying at this majestic resort. Visit its iconic casino and try your luck in the famous setting.

Travel Tips

Explore Nearby Attractions: After taking your selfie at the Bellagio, walk to nearby attractions like Caesars Palace or the Forum Shops.
Catch the Fountain Show at Night: Plan your visit to see an evening show for a more spectacular view and a great photo opportunity.

Dive into History at The National Atomic Testing Museum

The National Atomic Testing Museum is more than a museum, it’s a reminder of how close the world has come to nuclear war. Las Vegas wasn’t too far from the US nuclear testing facilities.

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The museum brings you up close to that dark period when giant mushroom clouds soared above the desert. You’ll learn about the history of the atomic bomb and the people behind it. Travel through an expertly curated space full of interactive exhibits and beautiful recreations.

You’ll see original scientific instruments and experience what it was like working in a testing facility. There are original videos and photographs from the blasts along with eyewitness accounts of the destruction they caused. If you want to learn more about Las Vegas’ history, there’s no better destination.

Travel Tips

Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Try visiting on weekdays or during early morning hours to avoid crowds.
Take the Audio Tour for a Deeper Experience: It features over 20 markers throughout the museum that provide insights from experts and personal stories.

Go Hiking

Hiking may not be what comes to mind when people think of Las Vegas, but the city is full of natural wonders! On top of all of them is Red Red Canyon. This sprawling National Conservation Area is full of hiking trails and beautiful viewpoints.

Start your hike early because it gets very hot during the day. Bring plenty of water and follow the marked trails that take you deep into the canyons and valleys.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can drive the 13-mile loop into the canyon. From the safety of your car, you can admire nature and beautiful landscapes. You can even laugh at those of us hikers suffering in the heat.

Travel Tips

Use a Map or GPS: Since some trails in Red Rock Canyon can be poorly marked, bringing a physical map or downloading one on your phone before your hike is a good idea.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat: Apply sunscreen before your hike and wear a hat to protect yourself from sunburn while you’re out on the trails.

Visit the Venetian

The Venetian proves that the US is one of the world’s top destinations for architecture. It’s also one of the most exciting destinations in the world. From world-famous casinos to luxurious rooms, this iconic space shouldn’t be missed.

No matter if you come for the day or stay the week, the resort has everything you can imagine. Dine in one of its renowned restaurants or try your luck in its popular casinos.

Take a gondola inside, surrounded by stunning recreation of the Italian city. If you’re staying the night, spend the day in one of its luxurious pools. Cap the day off with live music and entertainment, and you’ve got yourself a vacation!

Travel Tips

Book Gondola Rides in Advance: You get your preferred time slot and avoid long wait times.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely walk a lot, whether wandering through the shops or heading to different restaurants and attractions.

Admire the Signs at the Neon Museum

The Neon Museum is where to go to see the original signs of the old Las Vegas Strip. These iconic signs are out on display from the Hard Rock Cafe to the Stardust Hotel.

These vintage signs are perfectly preserved for you to walk through. Gaze at the historical neon-lit landmarks and learn about their history. There are guided tours where experts take you through the history of the city through its lights.

Visit both day and night, but come at night to see the signs lit up. Travel through spaces like the Neon Boneyard and the North Gallery for live shows and events.

Travel Tips

Book tickets in advance: Daytime tickets cost USD 25, and nighttime tickets cost USD 35.

Visit the Mob Museum

The popular Mob Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to the famous mobsters who once ran the shots. From Bugsy Siegel to “Handsome Johnny” Roselli, you’ll learn about the people behind the city’s notorious underworld.

Enjoy three floors of exhibits that cover the city’s mobster past. You’ll learn about prohibition, casinos, and the famous crimes committed inside the city.

The museum is located inside a former courthouse where many mobsters had their trials. Grab selfies next to electric chairs and memorabilia from an original speakeasy.

Travel Tips

Visit the Speakeasy: Don’t miss the museum’s Speakeasy, where you can enjoy Prohibition-era cocktails.
Take Advantage of Special Events: Check the museum’s calendar for special events, such as lectures or film screenings.

Don’t Miss Fremont Street

The Freemont Street Experience is a must-have experience in downtown Las Vegas. This pedestal mall is full of iconic shops and beautiful LED displays. You’ll walk through a tunnel of lights and interactive light shows perfect for photos.

Enjoy colorful light shows and music as you walk through the crowds. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the popular SLotZilla Zip Line. You’ll race down a 77-foot platform over the crowd and under the bright neon lights.

There are millions of LED lights connected through the space. The street is connected to several famous casinos and shopping malls. Set aside a day and try not to visit during New Year or holidays unless you love huge crowds.

Travel Tips

Check the Viva Vision Show Schedule: The Viva Vision light shows run every hour from 6 PM until 2 AM.
Try Local Eats at Food Stalls: Don’t miss out on the variety of food stalls and local eateries along Fremont Street. Go to Eureka for gourmet burgers and great service.

Take a Night Tour of the City

Hop on the Big Bus Tour to travel through the city at night. Las Vegas is the brightest place on earth, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a night bus tour.

You’ll travel through the city’s historical landmarks lit up to the max. Audio guides and expert hosts are ready to answer questions about the city.

You’ll pass famous casinos such as the Bellagio and MGM Grand. The tour also takes you to the glittering lights of Fremont Street.

Travel Tips

Choose the Right Tour Time: If you want to see the city at its most vibrant, opt for a tour that starts just after sunset.
Bring a Fully Charged Camera or Smartphone: You’ll want to capture the vibrant lights and iconic landmarks, so make sure your camera or smartphone is fully charged.