Las Vegas: A city I love where neon lights meet world-class entertainment, iconic landmarks, thrilling nightlife, and unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you’re here for the shows, casinos, or the stunning desert landscape, Vegas guarantees excitement and adventure 24/7.
Las Vegas for me was a deviation from my Route 66 roadtrip (read more on my blog post here) and I simply loved it. USA has 50 states and Las Vegas is located in the state of Nevada .
Ideal duration of stay: 3 to 5 Days is usually the perfect amount of time for a first-time visitor. This gives you enough time to explore the Strip, see a show or two, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy the nightlife without feeling rushed. If you’re planning day trips to nearby attractions like the Grand Canyon or Red Rock Canyon, consider staying 5 to 7 days.
Accommodation: For first-time visitors or those on a short stay, it’s best to stay directly on the Strip to be close to the main attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the excitement of Las Vegas. I stayed at the “Cosmopolitan” and it was amazing! Angel’s tip: Be aware that many hotels in Las Vegas charge resort fees (usually $30-$50 per night), which can add up. Make sure to factor this into your budget. Hotels on the Strip can vary greatly in price, so compare rates between luxury and mid-range options to find something within your budget. Angel’s tip: Weekdays (Monday to Thursday) tend to be cheaper for hotel stays and less crowded, making it easier to book restaurants and shows. Weekends are busier, especially around holidays or major events, so expect higher hotel rates and packed venues.
Best Time to Visit: Fall (September to November) and Spring (March to May) offer the most comfortable weather for walking around, especially if you want to explore the Strip or take day trips. Angel’s tip: Summer can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), but this is also a popular time for pool parties and indoor activities. Just be prepared for the heat.
Transportation: The Strip is surprisingly long (about 4.2 miles), so wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Use the Las Vegas Monorail for quick transportation along the Strip, or take advantage of free trams connecting hotels like Bellagio, Aria, and Park MGM. Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available but can be pricier during peak times, like late evenings.
Let’s see 13 must-Do Activities I suggest in Las Vegas:
1. Discover the iconic Las Vegas Strip
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without exploring the legendary Las Vegas Strip. This bustling boulevard is the heart of the city’s entertainment, with its larger-than-life hotels, vibrant casinos, upscale shopping, and world-class restaurants. Walking along the Strip, you’ll see iconic landmarks, including replicas of the Eiffel Tower, Egyptian pyramids, and New York skyscrapers, all illuminated by dazzling lights that give Vegas its nickname as the “City of Lights.” The sheer energy and excitement make this a must-do activity, especially at night.
2.Explore for free Themed Hotels in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is home to some of the most elaborate themed hotels in the world, each designed to transport you to a different destination without leaving the city.
Here are a few not-to-miss:
– Caesars Palace: Modeled after ancient Rome, this legendary hotel features majestic Roman statues, a grand casino, and the Colosseum, where top entertainers perform. The newly opened flagship Culture Kings store is also a great stop for fashion enthusiasts.
– Bellagio Hotel & Casino: Known for its elegance, the Bellagio is a must-see for its Fountains of Bellagio show, where water dances to music and lights every 15-30 minutes. Inside, explore the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, which are seasonally decorated, and don’t forget to visit the Bellagio Patisserie to marvel at the world’s largest chocolate fountain.
– Luxor: A tribute to ancient Egypt, this pyramid-shaped hotel is striking, complete with a 30-story light beam shooting from its top and a Sphinx replica at its entrance.
– The Venetian Resort: Offering a taste of Venice, this luxury resort boasts gondola rides through indoor canals, replicas of St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, and a lively atmosphere full of street performers.
– New York-New York: Experience the thrill of New York’s skyline, complete with replicas of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. For adrenaline seekers, the Big Apple Coaster offers a roller-coaster ride around the hotel.
– Paris Las Vegas: Bringing the charm of the French capital to the Strip, Paris Las Vegas is famous for its half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Strip from the observation deck for $25.
– Mirage Hotel: Famous for its Polynesian theme and lush tropical landscaping, this hotel offers the Mirage Volcano show, where an artificial volcano erupts with fire and water every evening.
3.Experience the Unbelievable Sphere at the Venetian
The MSG Sphere at The Venetian is one of the newest and most impressive attractions in Las Vegas. At over 360 feet tall, it is the world’s largest spherical structure and an immersive entertainment venue that opened in September 2023. The Sphere features cutting-edge technology that enhances the concert or film experience in ways never before seen. The Sphere Experience includes a 1-hour 45-minute immersive journey through advanced visual and sound technologies, culminating in a breathtaking short movie-documentary called “Postcard from Earth”. With interactive seat haptics, atmospheric simulations, and stunning visuals, it’s truly a futuristic, one-of-a-kind experience that you shouldn’t miss.
4.Catch a World-Class Show in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is renowned for its spectacular shows, offering something for every type of entertainment lover. Cirque du Soleil has multiple jaw-dropping performances, including “O,” “Mystère,” and “The Beatles LOVE.” Other must-see shows include headlining concerts, magic acts by famous magicians like David Copperfield, and lavish musical revues. Whether you’re into comedy, live music, or magic, Vegas will have a show that will leave you amazed.
Angel’s tip: If there’s a specific show or event you’re dying to see (like a Cirque du Soleil performance or a big-name concert), book your tickets in advance as they can sell out quickly.
5.Try Your Luck at famous Las Vegas casinos
Gambling is a quintessential part of the Las Vegas experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there are plenty of options to try your luck. Popular casinos like The Bellagio, Wynn, MGM Grand, and Caesars Palace offer everything from high-stakes poker to classic slot machines. Even if you don’t gamble, the casinos themselves are stunning and worth visiting for their luxurious interiors and buzzing atmosphere.
Angel’s tip: Only gamble in licensed casinos and be aware of the risk of addiction. Set limits for yourself.
6.Immerse yourself in Old Vegas at Fremont Street during night
Venture downtown to “Fremont Street” for a taste of old-school Las Vegas. This pedestrian-friendly area is famous for its Fremont Street Experience, an overhead canopy of LED lights that hosts dazzling light shows synchronized to music every night. The area is full of live entertainment, street performers, souvenir stalls, and even an indoor zipline, known as the **SlotZilla Zip Line**, where you can soar high above the crowds. Fremont Street is the perfect place to experience the original charm of Las Vegas while enjoying a more laid-back vibe. Angel’s tip: Don’t visit during the day.
7.Capture iconic landmarks and sights
There are a few iconic landmarks in Las Vegas that are perfect for photo ops. Snap a picture at the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, ride the High Roller observation wheel for panoramic views of the Strip, and be sure to visit the Bellagio Fountains, where the water show takes place in front of the hotel’s lake, choreographed to music and lights.
8.Indulge in Fine Dining
Las Vegas is home to a culinary scene that rivals any major city in the world. It is difficult to write you suggestions. But you’ll find countless restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual eat.
Some of them are:
- Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace for his signature Beef Wellington.
- Giada at The Cromwell for Italian dishes with a California twist.
- Picasso at Bellagio, where you can dine surrounded by original Picasso paintings.
- Burger Bar by Chef Hubert Keller at Mandalay Bay for one of the city’s best burgers.
- Pizza Rock for Tony Gemignani’s award-winning Margherita pizza.
- China Mama for authentic Chinese cuisine, and Sorry Not Sorry Creamery for some of the best ice cream in town.
You can find both high-end dining and budget-friendly options in Las Vegas. If you want to save money, try food courts or happy hour deals, but don’t miss out on the city’s incredible culinary scene.
Angel’s tip: For food lovers, consider taking the “Las Vegas Walking Food Tour”, a 3-hour experience that includes five stops at popular restaurants for $130 per person.
Angel’s tip: A great brunch spot we found with normal prices was The pepper Club.
9.Unwind at Luxurious Hotel Pools
Las Vegas is known for its lavish pools, offering a perfect escape from the city’s excitement. Most major hotels have luxurious pool areas, some with cabanas, bars, and DJ sets, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the Strip.
- TAO Beach (at The Venetian) – Upscale dayclub with a stylish pool area, luxurious cabanas, and regular DJ sets.
- Wet Republic (at MGM Grand) – Energetic atmosphere with a large pool area and top DJs.
- Encore Beach Club (at Encore) – Luxurious setting with lively parties and renowned DJ performances.
- Daylight Beach Club (at Mandalay Bay) – Spacious pool area with a vibrant party scene and live music.
- Marquee Dayclub (at The Cosmopolitan) – Chic pool environment with high-energy parties and celebrity DJs.
- Kassi beach house (at The Virgin Hotel) – Great atmosphere with a nice pool area and Italian cuisine.
10.Experience Las Vegas Legendary Nightlife
Las Vegas is just as lively after dark as it is during the day or even more. The city offers a world-class nightlife scene, with top-tier bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Visit the Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan for its multi-level chandelier design, or explore hidden speakeasies like Ghost Donkey or The Barbershop at The Cosmopolitan. If you’re looking for live music or dancing, Vegas has no shortage of vibrant clubs and bars.
Angel’s tip: Many nightclubs have high cover charges, especially for men. Consider getting on guest lists in advance or booking a table if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Many upscale clubs and restaurants have dress codes, so check in advance to avoid being turned away.
11.Take a thrilling Helicopter Tour over the strip
For an unforgettable experience, take a nighttime **helicopter tour** of the Las Vegas Strip. Prices range from €95 to €140, depending on the duration, and the aerial views of the illuminated city are breathtaking.
12.Visit unique Museums in Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a few unique museums that are worth visiting, such as the **Neon Museum**, which preserves iconic vintage Vegas signs, and the **Mob Museum**, which chronicles the history of organized crime in America.
Inside the Venetian hotel
13.Explore stunning Day Trip Destinations near Las Vegas
Las Vegas is surrounded by natural beauty, and several day trips allow you to explore this stunning landscape.
If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to:
- Grand Canyon (about 4 hours away). I visited before Las Vegas during my Route 66 roadtrip. You can read more on my other blog post here.
- Hoover Dam (45 minutes away)
- Red Rock Canyon (30 minutes away)
- Seven Magic Mountains (a 20-minute drive), a colorful outdoor art installation located in the desert that’s perfect for photos.
Angel’s Tip: For shopping, head to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets for discounted designer brands. Additionally, consider purchasing a Las Vegas Choice Pass or All-Inclusive Pass for access to multiple attractions at a reduced price.
My Las Vegas trip was part of Route 66 roadtrip with Chicago and Los Angeles. You can read more in my other articles on the blog.
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