Las Vegas is one of the ultimate party hubs in the United States. With its bright lights, world-class casinos, and over-the-top shows, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this desert oasis each year. Aside from gambling and seeing a good show, there are several other exciting activities that you can do to take your Vegas experience to the next level. From off-the-beaten-path adventures to unique nightlife experiences, here’s a list of things you should check out during your visit to Sin City.
Key Vegas Takeaways:
- Las Vegas offers a myriad of exciting activities beyond gambling and shows.
- Unique experiences such as off-the-beaten-path adventures and nightlife are available within Sin City.
- Sightseers flock to Las Vegas each year for the bright lights, world-class casinos, and over-the-top shows.
Fun Things to Do in Vegas First Timers Shouldn’t Miss Out
Las Vegas is a city full of surprises and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a relaxing day out, there are plenty of fun and unusual things to do in Las Vegas. From day trips to the Grand Canyon to rides on the Stratosphere, Las Vegas has it all. You can also explore Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, and Valley of Fire State Park. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try indoor skydiving or drive luxury race cars at the International Car Forest of the Last Church.
If you’re looking for something more relaxed, visit Eldorado Canyon or hang out at the Downtown Container Park. Sip local wines at the Pahrump Valley Winery and relax at the Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa. If you’re feeling adventurous, discover artworks in the desert on a desert winery tour and taste delicious wines along the way.
1. Fly over Las Vegas on board a helicopter
Experience the dazzling lights of Las Vegas from a unique perspective with a helicopter ride over the Strip. Take off from McCarran International Airport and soar high above the city, taking in all its vibrant colors and sights. Choose the duration of your flight to make it as long or short as you like. A 15-minute tour will give you an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
For those looking for something extra special, upgrade your tour to include a long flight over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead to the Grand Canyon. You can even land on the canyon floor for a glass of champagne, making this an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget. Whether you choose to fly by day or night, take in all that Las Vegas has to offer from up above with a helicopter ride over the Strip.
2. Explore the Black Canyon wildlife by kayak
Exploring the Black Canyon by kayak is an unforgettable experience. The canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, which can be observed from the water. As you paddle along the emerald-colored waters, take in the breathtaking views of the canyon walls and Emerald Cave. Be sure to dress warmly and take precautions not to fall in as the water can be quite cold.
If you’re looking for other outdoor activities around Vegas, there are plenty of options available. Hiking trails abound in Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead National Recreation Area, while those feeling adventurous can try their hand at horseback riding or a cowboy breakfast. No matter what your preference is, there’s something for everyone when it comes to exploring nature around Vegas.
3. Say “I do” in the Graceland Chapel in front of Elvis
Getting married in the Graceland Chapel in Las Vegas is an experience like no other. The chapel, which was inspired by Elvis Presley’s home in Memphis, Tennessee, offers couples the chance to say “I do” in front of the King of Rock and Roll himself. Couples can choose to have either an official or nonofficial wedding ceremony, with Elvis officiating for a truly unique experience.
One couple recently invited a stranger to witness their vow renewal ceremony at the Graceland Chapel. As they walked up the aisle, music started playing Love Me Tender and the bride was escorted by Elvis himself. There are several Elvis wedding chapels in Las Vegas that offer different packages for couples looking to get married or renew their vows. These packages include advice on who is the best Elvis impersonator in town and what type of ceremony they should have.
4. Try the cowboy lifestyle with a sunset dinner after a horseback tour
Experience the Wild West like never before with a horseback tour of the Nevada wilderness at sunset. With Wild West Horseback Adventures, you can explore the stunning red rocks, Joshua trees, and canyons of Nevada in a unique way. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable birthday gift or just want to treat someone special to a romantic experience, this is the perfect way to do it.
The horseback tour is sure to be an adventure that you won’t soon forget. After your ride, enjoy a hot cowboy breakfast or country-style dinner while taking in the breathtaking views of the desert landscape. You can even bring along your own picnic basket and drinks if you prefer. No matter how you choose to end your day, this is sure to be an experience that will stay with you for years to come.
5. Crack the code at an escape room
The Escape Game is a great way to have fun and bond with friends and family while testing your puzzle-solving skills. With various themes to choose from, it’s an ideal activity for repeat visits. It’s also suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly activity in Las Vegas.
Recently, my group of friends and I visited Caesar’s Palace for an Escape Room game. We were presented with the Gold Rush room which had hidden clues in the form of random markings on the walls. After some analytical thinking and a few clues, we were able to open the final padlock and find the gold! It was an exciting experience that tested our problem-solving skills and pushed us out of our comfort zone. We all had a great time trying to crack the code in the escape room!
6. Walk at 1200 meters above the void on the Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is an incredible experience for visitors to the Grand Canyon West. Located at the edge of the canyon, it offers stunning views of the surrounding area and a unique opportunity to walk 1200 meters above the void. Admission tickets can be booked online for this thrilling experience.
Once on the Skywalk, visitors can take in breathtaking views of landmarks like the Zuni Corridor, Desert View Watchtower, and Point Imperial from a bird’s eye view. For those who want to learn more about the history of this majestic landscape, there are also guided tours available that provide insight into its past. To get an even better perspective of the area, visitors can take an airplane tour to admire the Grand Canyon’s West Rim from above. No matter how you choose to explore it, a visit to the Grand Canyon Skywalk is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
7. Witness the warm color palette of the Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire is a stunning National Park located near Las Vegas. It is an hour away from the city and offers beautiful pink and red rock formations that are sure to take your breath away. The Valley of Fire is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Sin City and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature. Guided hiking tours are available to pick up and drop off from Las Vegas, making it easy for visitors to explore this amazing landscape.
The Valley of Fire is a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, or taking family photos. The warm color palette of the rocks creates an incredible backdrop for any activity. There are also plenty of trails to explore, with better vistas than Red Rock Canyon. If you’re looking for something different than the typical Las Vegas experience, then the Valley of Fire should be at the top of your list!
8. Put on your best poker face at the famous Bellagio Hotel
The Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for poker fans. With high-stakes tables offering an astronomical amount of cash changing hands, it’s the perfect place to test your skills against some of the best players in the world. Even if you don’t want to play, you can still enjoy watching the pros battle it out. The Bellagio and Venetian resorts offer opulent interiors that will take your breath away. The Bellagio features a Chihuly ceiling and the world’s largest chocolate fountain, while the Venetian boasts marble floors, a faux blue sky, and a re-creation of the Grand Canal. Saint Mark’s Square at the Venetian offers street vendors and artists to provide visitors with unique mementos of their visit.
9. Admire the underwater life at the Reef Aquarium
The Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is an amazing experience for all ages. With 15 species of sharks and 2,000 creatures, it is one of the largest tanks in North America. Visitors can get up close to the sharks for a unique experience. They can explore Shark Reef Aquarium and feed the stingrays or reach into the touch pool to feel some of the sea creatures. The Shark Reef Educators are also available to answer questions and provide information about the sea creatures.
At the Reef Aquarium, visitors can watch sharks during their feeding session and learn more about them from knowledgeable staff members. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about ocean life and conservation efforts. The aquarium also offers educational programs for children and adults alike, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of marine life and its importance in our world today. Admirers of underwater life will be amazed by what they find at this incredible aquarium!
10. Tick off tandem skydiving from your bucket list
Tandem skydiving is an exhilarating experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Imagine soaring through the air at speeds of up to 220 km/hr, with breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon from up to 14,000 feet in the air. Vegas Indoor Skydiving offers guests the opportunity to experience this thrilling adventure without ever having to leave the ground. Guests will receive a brief training class before they fly and all necessary flight gear, including a mesh trampoline floor and foam-padded walls for safety, is provided.
The minimum age requirement for tandem skydiving is 40 pounds or over, so it’s perfect for those who are looking for an adrenaline rush but aren’t quite ready to take on a full solo jump. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable experience or just want to tick off tandem skydiving from your bucket list, Vegas Indoor Skydiving has you covered.
11. Drink your way through the surreal dream world of Lost Spirits Distillery
Lost Spirits Distillery™ is an attraction at AREA15 that offers a unique and surreal experience. Guests can explore the dream world of the distillery while sipping on fine rum and brandy. The award-winning and hard-to-find rums make for the perfect souvenir, so stock up while you’re there! Lost Spirits also offers tickets for any special occasion, whether it be with friends, on a date, or for business meetings.
For those looking to learn more about the distillery’s groundbreaking scientific process, guests can book a 16-course dinner to sample signature Navy Style Rum and four Vegas exclusives. Afterward, visitors can take home a bottle from the gift shop as a reminder of their time spent in this surreal dream world. Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out or just want to try something new, Lost Spirits Distillery™ is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
12. Ride The LINQ, the tallest Ferris wheel in the world
The Las Vegas High Roller is an iconic attraction that no visitor should miss. Standing 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip, it is the tallest Ferris wheel in the world and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can take a spin in one of the air-conditioned pods, which can hold up to 40 people, and some even have a bar! It’s also possible to get married on the High Roller, making it one of the most unique tourist attractions in Las Vegas.
For those looking for an extra thrill, tickets are available online for both the High Roller and Zipline. Plus, you can pick up a LAS VEGAS T-shirt from my online store as a souvenir. So why not take a ride on this incredible Ferris wheel and experience all that Las Vegas has to offer? With its unbeatable views and unique atmosphere, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
13. Stare in awe within the walls of Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in Arizona. It is one of the most visited slot canyons in the world and offers an incredible atmosphere for visitors to explore. The canyon features pink and orange rock mountains that are awe-inspiring to behold. Hiking through Antelope Canyon is an unforgettable experience, as its beauty will leave you speechless.
The best way to access Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas is by taking a tour. These tours usually include Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell. This allows visitors to get the full experience of this majestic landscape without having to worry about transportation or navigation. With its peaceful atmosphere and incredible photo opportunities, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Antelope Canyon each year. Staring in awe at the walls of this canyon is an unforgettable experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.
14. Feel the powerful wind around the Hoover Dam Bridge
The Hoover Dam is an impressive feat of engineering, located on the border of Nevada and Arizona. It was completed in 1936 and stands as high as a 60-story building and as wide as two football fields. Its spillways and towers are adorned with art deco touches and Native American imagery, making it a popular destination for photographers. The dam supplies hydroelectric power to three states, creating Lake Mead in the process.
Visiting the Hoover Dam is an unforgettable experience, with its powerful wind and stunning views. There are multiple tours available to explore the power plant or nature surrounding the dam. Swimming, boating, and fishing can be enjoyed at Lake Mead while admiring the beauty of this man-made marvel. Combining a tour of the Hoover Dam with a visit to the Grand Canyon is possible through authorized vendors for those looking for an even more memorable experience.
15. Become a sniper for a day
Becoming a sniper for a day is an exciting and thrilling experience that anyone can enjoy. Battlefield Vegas offers the perfect opportunity to do just that. With their shooting experience, you can put your skills to the test and see if you have what it takes to be a sniper. Whether you are an experienced shooter or a complete beginner, Battlefield Vegas has something for everyone.
The experience begins with a safety briefing and introduction to the weapons used by snipers in the field. You will then get to practice your aim on various targets before taking part in simulated combat scenarios. During these scenarios, you will be able to hone your skills as you take aim at targets from long distances and learn how to use cover effectively. At the end of the day, you will receive feedback on your performance so that you can continue improving your skills in the future.
16. Hear the bellowing roars at Lion Habitat Ranch
Lion Habitat Ranch is an outdoor attraction home to over 40 big cats and their cubs, as well as Ozzie the Giraffe. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour or sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close and personal with these majestic animals. Animal lovers will have the chance to hear the bellowing roars of the kings of the jungle, and learn more about them through educational talks given by knowledgeable staff.
The ranch is also home to over 30 lions, many of which are descendants from MGM shows. During the tour, visitors can learn about these incredible creatures and even get the opportunity to feed them! There’s also Ozzie the giraffe who paints pictures and has quite the personality. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Lion Habitat Ranch is a nonprofit animal sanctuary dedicated to providing quality care for its residents while educating visitors on conservation efforts.
17. Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour around Las Vegas
Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour around Las Vegas to explore the city in comfort. Big Bus Tours offers a London-style double-decker bus with an open roof for a better view and sunny weather. Perfect for those pressed for time, this tour allows you to see as much of the city as possible. Popular attractions include Real Bodies at Bally’s, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, and Springs Preserve.
Real Bodies at Bally’s is a family-friendly attraction filled with fun facts about the human body. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum offers educational exhibits and programs ranging from dinosaurs to ancient Egyptians and the African savannah. Springs Preserve is a 180-acre attraction featuring botanical gardens, museums, family events, traveling exhibits, trails, and more.
18. Fly over the Grand Canyon by helicopter
Taking a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience. From the comfort of your seat, you can enjoy aerial views of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Grand Canyon. The tour includes a live English-speaking guide to explain points of interest and make sure you don’t miss any of the canyon’s beauty. If you want to spend more time at the park, opt for an air and ground tour.
Driving to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon takes five hours from Las Vegas, but if you take a helicopter tour instead, you can see all its beauty without having to make such a long drive. The West Rim is not part of the national park but offers amazing views and the popular Skywalk. Taking a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon is an incredible way to experience its grandeur in just a few hours.
19. Explore the Red Rock Canyon on a bike
Red Rock Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located just 25 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip. It’s a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the 13-mile loop drive and take in the breathtaking views of the red sandstone formations. The best time to visit Red Rock Canyon is late fall through mid-spring when temperatures are milder, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
For those looking to explore Red Rock Canyon on two wheels, an electric bike tour is a great way to experience this unique landscape. Visitors need to pay a $15 fee to enter the park and should bring along a bottle of water, a camera, and dress in comfortable sportswear. There are plenty of options available from Las Vegas ranging from self-guided tours to guided group tours. No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable day exploring Red Rock Canyon on your bike!
20. Watch the shows
Cirque du Soleil is a world-renowned circus producer known for its combination of athleticism, art, and magic. Seeing a Cirque du Soleil show is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas. There are six permanent shows in Las Vegas, including ‘Mystere’, ‘Ka’, ‘O’, ‘Michael Jackson ONE’ and ‘Love’. Each show tells a unique story through music, dance, and acrobatics with little dialogue. It’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you mesmerized.
For those looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to experience Las Vegas from a whole new perspective, skydiving over the city is the perfect option. Sky Dive Las Vegas has been operating since 1993 and offers free pick up and drop off from the Strip. You can enjoy stunning views of the Strip, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Red Rock Canyon, and the Colorado River as you soar through the sky.
21. Discover the artsy Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is an impressive and weird sculpture park located 10 miles south of Las Vegas. Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the sculptures are composed of boulders sourced locally, painted in bold dayglow colors, and set on top of each other to stand 30-35 feet high. Visitors are encouraged to take their best sunglasses and capture the perfect picture of this unique desert landscape.
Originally erected in 2016, Seven Magic Mountains has become a hit with tourists and locals alike. The vibrant neon colors draw people from all over the world to experience this unique art exhibition. Whether you’re looking for a great photo opportunity or just want to explore something new, Seven Magic Mountains is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. With its close proximity to the Las Vegas Strip, it’s easy to make a day trip out of visiting this one-of-a-kind attraction.
22. Take the craziest selfies with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds
Visiting Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas is an experience like no other. The wax museum features incredibly lifelike figures of some of the world’s most famous celebrities, from Eva Longoria to Muhammad Ali. Visitors can take selfies with their favorite stars in clever settings and have a great time fooling their friends. Whether you want to snap a photo with Leonardo DiCaprio or Britney Spears, Madame Tussauds has it all!
In addition to taking selfies with their favorite celebrities, visitors can also enjoy a 4-D movie featuring Marvel superheroes for an exciting experience. With realistic wax figures and interactive activities, Madame Tussauds is sure to be a memorable outing for everyone. So if you’re looking for something fun and unique to do in Las Vegas, make sure to check out Madame Tussauds!
23. Get mesmerized by the Bellagio fountain show
The Bellagio fountain show is an iconic Las Vegas spectacle that has mesmerized visitors for decades. The show features synchronized music, powerful water cannons, and dancing lights that come together to create a truly magical experience. Seeing the show live is a must-do for anyone visiting Las Vegas.
The Bellagio water fountains are a free show that runs from 3 pm to midnight every day. It features over 1,200 water nozzles and 4,800 lights choreographed to popular music. The idea was conceived by casino owner Steve Wynn and cost $40 million to build in 1998. The result is a breathtaking display of light and sound that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just want to take in the beauty of Las Vegas, the Bellagio fountain show is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
24. Roar through the desert dunes
Experience the thrill of roaring through the desert dunes just outside of Las Vegas on a quad bike or buggy. Surround yourself with friends and book a tour today for an unforgettable experience. With 10 Best Las Vegas ATV Tours, you can choose from a variety of packages that will take you to some of the most beautiful places in the area. Enjoy a wild adventure with friends at an outdoor desert range and on Lake Mead with stops for swimming, cliff diving, and complimentary alcoholic drinks. Start your day off right with breakfast before heading out to the desert range and speedboat.
For those looking to save money, check out the Go City Pass which offers great discounts and extra perks on over 35 attractions and experiences in Las Vegas. From zip lining to helicopter tours, there is something for everyone here! Get ready for an amazing day full of adventure as you roar through the desert dunes on your quad bike or buggy.
25. Elevate your Las Vegas experience at the Stratosphere Observation Deck
The Stratosphere Observation Deck is the perfect way to elevate your Las Vegas experience. Located at the top of the iconic Stratosphere Tower, it offers a stunning view of the city and its surrounding areas. From here, you can take in the beauty of the desert landscape and see for miles in every direction. The observation deck also features several restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with someone special while taking in the breathtaking views.
For those looking for more than just a view, the Springs Preserve is an often overlooked activity that should not be missed! This 180-acre nature preserve offers a variety of attractions, including dinosaur exhibitions, geology showcases, cabarets, and virtual reality experiences. It’s a great destination for people of all ages to explore and enjoy. With so much to do, it’s no wonder why this is one of Las Vegas’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable view or something more interactive, there are
26. Get in control of powerful equipment on a giant playground
Visiting Circus Circus is an experience like no other. With its five-acre indoor amusement park, Adventuredome, visitors can get in control of powerful equipment on a giant playground. Drive enormous bulldozers and dig giant holes to satisfy your thirst for power and control with real-life truck play. For those looking for more traditional activities, there are classic arcade games, roller coasters, bumper cars, rock climbing walls, and miniature golf. Laser tag, Ferris wheel rides, and family rides are also available for visitors of all ages.
Adventuredome is the perfect place to let loose and has some fun! Whether you’re looking to take control of powerful equipment or just want to enjoy some classic amusement park activities with your friends and family, Circus Circus has something for everyone. So come on down and get in control of powerful equipment on a giant playground – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
27. Fly over the dry Pahrump Valley on board a hot-air balloon
A hot-air balloon ride over the Pahrump Valley is an unforgettable experience. Imagine soaring high above the desert, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains and landmarks from a unique perspective. You can choose from a summer sunrise or winter sunset for your adventure, and you’ll receive a flight certificate to commemorate your journey. As you float high in the sky, you can enjoy a Champagne float and toast your experience with a glass of bubbly.
The hot-air balloon ride also offers stunning views of the Las Vegas strip and surrounding area. From this vantage point, you can take in all the sights and sounds of Sin City without ever having to set foot on land. The aerial view provides an unparalleled experience that will stay with you long after your journey is complete. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to explore Nevada’s Pahrump Valley, then look no further than a hot-air balloon ride!
28. Enjoy an exotic day tour at the Zion National Park
Spend a day exploring the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park. Located three hours away from Vegas, this national park is an ideal destination for a day trip. Start your tour with lunch and learn about the “Grand Circle” at Zion National Park. Then, go through the famous Mt. Carmel tunnel and wear your best hiking shoes for the trail to enjoy stunning and vibrant colors.
Take advantage of the free shuttle in the season to explore scenic viewpoints and take great photos. Go on an easy 2-mile Riverside Walk along the Virgin River or drive the scenic route from Zion to Mt. Carmel for more breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch while admiring nature’s beauty or take a dip in one of the many pools along the way. With its majestic canyons, towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, Zion National Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
29. Live your Fast & Furious dream at the Supercar Racetrack
Experience the thrill of drifting around corners and burning rubber at the Motor Speedway in Las Vegas with Dream Racing. This unforgettable experience offers exotic supercar racing for all levels of drivers, from beginners to professionals. Different race packages are available, with pricing dependent on the supercar selected and the laps driven. Guests receive a safety driving simulation and exclusive lessons before they can hop in a car and race. Video footage is also available for purchase so you can relive all your shrieks, tears, and giant smiles.
The Las Vegas Motor Speedway is located 20-30 minutes from the Strip, making it an easy day trip for visitors to the city. Spend at least half a day out at the Speedway for an enjoyable and thrilling experience. Watch cars race around the track or take part yourself – just make sure to book ahead of time as this is a popular activity! Check out their event calendar to watch professional racers in action or join them on the track yourself – live your Fast & Furious dream today.
30. Admire the Grand Canyon’s West Rim by airplane
The Grand Canyon’s West Rim is a sight to behold from the sky. Taking an airplane tour is the perfect way to admire its beauty and grandeur. From the air, you can see landmarks such as the Zuni Corridor, Desert View Watchtower, and Point Imperial. You’ll also learn about the history of the area and its geological features.
For an even more thrilling experience, take a helicopter ride from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim. This unforgettable journey will give you a bird’s eye view of this majestic natural wonder. Riders under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the flight, but 19-year-olds can take a solo adventure for a truly unique experience. Soar above the canyon and take in all its breathtaking beauty from high above!
Vegas Summary
Wrapping up, Las Vegas is a great destination for those looking for fun things to do. From the glitz and glamour of the Strip to the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or an adventure in nature, Vegas has it all.