Top 11 Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling

There’s no place like…Las Vegas! A visit to Sin City is often synonymous with gambling, with thousands of visitors traveling every year to dance with Lady Luck. But, did you know, there are so many other things to do in Vegas?

In the last decade, the 119-year-old city has rapidly developed, changing as fast as the desert winds sweeping over its landscape. With dozens of new shows, concerts, and adventures, we’ve rounded up the 10 best things to do in Vegas besides gambling.

Pro tip: make sure you don’t miss a thing and book the Go City Las Vegas Explorer Pass or the All-Inclusive Pass. This way, you’ll have easy access to entertainment options and more. Plus, it’s a great way to save money. Trust us, every dollar counts in Sin City!

1. Stroll the Las Vegas Strip

Start off your mega adventure in Vegas strolling down the most famous street in town: the Las Vegas Strip. This 4-mile (6 km) long stretch of pavement is lined with some of the world’s most extravagant hotels and casinos.

A stroll down the Strip isn’t your regular walk in the park. Since its debut in the 1940s, the Strip has become a symbol of Vegas with its glittering lights, world-renowned entertainment, and overall festive atmosphere.

Meander down this bustling avenue and admire the Bellagio, Venetian, and Mirage Hotels with their luxurious facades. How many other world-famous resorts will you spot during your stroll?

Want to explore more of the Strip’s hidden gems? Join us for a guided walking tour for an insider’s perspective of this historic street. Or, take your adventure to the next level (literally) and see the Strip on a helicopter tour!

2. Immerse Yourself in AREA15

Not to be confused with the classified alien lab Area 51 (that’s down the street), AREA15 is an immersive entertainment park just a 10-minute walk from the Strip. The best part? It’s free, and for all ages, guaranteeing family-friendly fun even on a budget!

With admission, you’ll access the Origin Quest game through an on-site app and Wi-Fi. Explore the park’s origins and discover the unique stories behind 6 distinct areas within this dynamic entertainment venue.

3. Climb up to The Stratosphere Tower

Continuing our adventure into the glitz and the glam, we’ve arrived at the Stratosphere Tower, Las Vegas’s iconic vertical landmark, reaching 1,148 ft (350 m). If you’re looking for epic city views without breaking the bank, then a visit to The Observatory is your ticket to a killer panorama of the Strip and surrounding desert.

In addition to seeing the city from a privileged vantage point, the Tower also boasts gravity-defying attractions. Adventurous visitors can test their limits with the SkyJump attraction and experience the weightless feeling of free-fall jumping from the 108th floor!

For a more relaxed experience, book your ticket to the Stratosphere Tower and enjoy the breathtaking views of Las Vegas and the surrounding desert. And if you want more, savor the refined cuisine of the Top of the World restaurant!

4. Feel the Fremont Street Experience

Head downtown to explore Fremont Street, the authentic heart of Las Vegas that tells the city’s original story. Long before the glitzy Strip became the main attraction, this historic street was where Vegas first sparked to life, hosting the classic casinos and iconic neon signs that would define the city’s legendary character.

Dive into the Fremont Street Experience, walking beneath the massive 1,364-foot (416 m) LED canopy that turns this pedestrian thoroughfare into an urban playground. The overhead screen bursts into spectacular light shows, while street performers, live music, and the electric energy of classic Vegas create an atmosphere that pulls you right into the city’s vibrant entertainment legacy.

Every night, you can enjoy sound and light shows, tour the historic casinos and eclectic boutiques of this famous Las Vegas street, and see performances by street artists. An absolute must-see thing to do in Vegas!

5. Visit the Best Museums in Vegas

Beyond its famous casinos and entertainment, Las Vegas offers an unexpected cultural scene. Visitors can explore a wide range of the city’s cultural heritage through its exceptional museums.

Dive into the diverse cultural landscape by discovering unique collections that reveal unexpected stories. From the dark history of organized crime to the iconic world of neon artistry, Las Vegas museums take you on an adventure into American culture.

• The Mob Museum
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
• The Atomic Museum
• The Illuminarium Las Vegas
• Paradox Museum de Las Vegas

During your visit, explore exhibits that showcase everything from legendary film history to renowned design!

6. Admire the Beauty of The Bellagio

The Bellagio Hotel is world-famous for its fountains that put on a sound and light show that’s stood the test of time. Debuting in 1998, the famous fountains have been attracting visitors from around the globe for over 25 years.

With shows every 15 to 30 minutes depending on the day, this spectacular water and light display is one of the best things to see in Las Vegas. Inside the hotel, you’ll find stunning seasonal botanical gardens that change throughout the year. It’s safe to say, The Bellagio is an absolute must-see, both inside and out!

Las Vegas is a destination that truly comes alive at night. A guided night tour captures the city’s most iconic sights, taking you through the vibrant Strip, and includes a stop at the Bellagio fountains.

7. Travel to Venice at The Venetian Hotel

Escape to Venice without leaving Vegas at The Venetian Hotel. This incredible resort captures the magic of the Italian city, through replicated waterways, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The best part? It’s free!

Stroll along its cobblestone streets, admire the frescoes and sculptures that adorn the hotel, and hop aboard a gondola for a romantic ride along the canals. The Venetian offers a luxurious experience that transports you straight to the heart of the Italian city, that doesn’t break the bank.

8. Explore the Hoover Dam

One of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling? Leave! Just outside the city limits are incredible attractions just waiting to be discovered. Take the Hoover Dam for example. This engineering masterpiece in the middle of the Nevada desert attracts visitors year after year. With good reason, too, this Great Depression-era structure played a vital role in developing the American West.

Touring the Hoover Dam, you’ll dive into its history while soaking up panoramic views of Lake Mead and the surrounding mountains. Of course, there are plenty of options for touring inside and outside the dam, but our favorite is this Hoover Dam day trip leaving from downtown Las Vegas.

9. Showtime in Las Vegas

Wondering what to do once you’re back in Las Vegas? As the sun sets, the casino lights shine brighter, but that’s just the beginning. From magic shows and circuses to musicals and concerts, there’s something for everybody in the entertainment capital of the world.

While the list can go on for miles, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 4 that you just can’t miss. Don’t wait, book your tickets now!

• MJ Live: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert
• Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show
• KÁ by the Cirque du Soleil
• Vegas! The Show

10. Venture through Red Rock Canyon

Round off your stay with one of Las Vegas’ must-see attractions: Red Rock Canyon. Just a short 20-minute drive from the city, the national park offers a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas with its iconic red rock formations and desert landscapes.

This canyon is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers, with hiking trails, bike paths, and climbing routes. Explore its trails, observe local wildlife, and admire the view of the surrounding desert, genuinely an underrated thing to do in Vegas.

11. Take a Ride on the High Roller

Add a little extra adventure to your stay and take a ride on the High Roller! Located on LINQ Promenade and standing 527 feet (167 m) high, it’s the third-largest observation wheel in the world. Book your ticket for the High Roller, climb aboard, and take in the view.

Each cabin features large 360-degree windows, and some even have bars where you can enjoy a cocktail while admiring the scenery. Bottoms up!

Each cabin features large 360-degree windows, and some even have bars where you can enjoy a cocktail while admiring the scenery. Bottoms up!

Classic Vegas Experiences

If you’re looking to experience the true, quirky heart of Sin City, there are a few classic Vegas moments you just can’t miss.

Up until now, we’ve detailed our favorite things to do in Vegas, but there are always room for more! Vegas has changed a lot over the years, but you can still dive into that over-the-top, never-boring energy that makes this place legendary.

Is there anything more Vegas than a no-fuss wedding officiated by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself? Book your Elvis Wedding experience and channel the spontaneous and fun spirit of Sin City!

And before you head off on your honeymoon, take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, for the full classic Vegas experience.

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas

Visiting Las Vegas on a budget? We’ve got you covered! Here are a few ideas to complete your Las Vegas bucket list, and they’re totally free! Don’t forget to book your eSIM card for the USA, so you can stay connected throughout your trip—perfect for coordinating airport transfers and more.

• Nature Lovers:
  • Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
  • Ethel M Chocolates Factory & Cactus Garden
• Family-Friendly Fun:
  • Container Park
• Classic Vegas:
  • The Mirage Volcano
• Art & Design Enthusiasts
  • Galleries at Crystal

Las Vegas is more than just glitz and casinos. With Civitatis, you can explore beyond the casino floor to experience some of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling. Make your stay truly unforgettable, and remember—what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!