Things to do
Things to do in Las Vegas: shows, sights and day trips beyond the casinos
The best of the Strip and Downtown, the shows worth booking, free things to do and the national parks within a few hours' drive.
By Traveljin Editorial Team · Updated · 2 min read
Quick answer
- Spend at least three days: one on the Strip, one Downtown on Fremont Street, and one on a day trip to the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam or Red Rock Canyon.
- Many highlights are free, including the Bellagio fountains and Conservatory and the light show over Fremont Street.
- The best weather is from March to May and September to November; summer days often top 100°F.
| Days needed | 3–4 |
|---|---|
| Best months | March–May, September–November |
| Free highlights | Bellagio fountains and Conservatory, Fremont Street light show |
| Red Rock Canyon | Timed-entry reservation October 1–May 31, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Airport to the Strip | About 10–15 minutes |
The Strip
Walk the Strip at night, when the resorts are lit up. Watch the Bellagio fountains, which dance to music several times an hour in the evening, and see the seasonal displays in the Bellagio Conservatory. Ride a gondola at The Venetian, then take in the view from the High Roller observation wheel at the LINQ.
Sphere, near The Venetian, is the city's newest landmark, with immersive films and concerts on a wraparound screen. Book ahead for popular showtimes.
Shows
Las Vegas is famous for its shows. Cirque du Soleil has several long-running productions on the Strip, alongside magic shows, comedy clubs and headline music residencies. Weeknight tickets are usually cheaper than weekends.
Downtown and Fremont Street
Downtown is where Las Vegas began. The Fremont Street Experience has a huge LED canopy with free light shows in the evening, and you can zipline beneath it. Nearby, the Mob Museum tells the story of organized crime, and the Neon Museum displays the city's historic signs.
Day trips
- Red Rock Canyon: about 30 minutes away, with a scenic drive and hiking. Book a timed-entry reservation for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. between October 1 and May 31.
- Hoover Dam: about 45 minutes away, with tours inside the dam.
- Valley of Fire State Park: about an hour away, with red sandstone and ancient petroglyphs.
- Grand Canyon: the West Rim and its glass Skywalk are about 2.5 hours away by road; the South Rim is about 4.5 hours. Helicopter tours make it possible in half a day.
- Zion National Park, Utah: about 2.5 hours away.
Tips
- Most resorts add a daily resort fee to the room rate, so compare total prices.
- The Strip is longer than it looks: use the Las Vegas Monorail, free trams between some resorts, or rideshares.
- In summer, plan outdoor trips for early morning and carry plenty of water.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best free things to do in Las Vegas?
The Bellagio fountains and Conservatory, the Fremont Street light show, walking the Strip at night and window-shopping at the themed resorts are all free.
Can you visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas in a day?
Yes. The West Rim is about 2.5 hours away by road, and the South Rim about 4.5 hours. Helicopter and small-plane tours are the fastest option.
When is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
March to May and September to November, when it's warm but not extremely hot. Summer days often exceed 100°F.
