Okay, let’s talk about Las Vegas. It’s a city that sparks strong opinions; you either fall in love with its dazzling chaos or find it overwhelming. There seems to be very little middle ground. Yet, regardless of your initial feelings, there are a myriad of the best things to see in Las Vegas scattered throughout this unique destination, promising unforgettable experiences beyond the typical stereotypes.
Having visited this vibrant city multiple times, I’ve come to appreciate its layers, from the overt spectacle to the quieter, historical gems. It’s a place designed to capture your attention, brimming with distractions, iconic sights, and fantastic dining spots that can make navigating it a fascinating endeavor. This guide compiles some of my favorite and the best things to see in Las Vegas based on personal experience, aiming to help you discover the city’s most captivating attractions.
Las Vegas stands apart from other cities in the United States. It operates on a different wavelength, built on energy, entertainment, and, yes, indulgence. This is precisely why it earned the moniker “Sin City.” However, like any destination, you have the power to shape your visit, crafting the best experiences and truly enjoying the exploration and relaxation it offers. Keeping that in mind, dive into some of the best things to see in Las Vegas. Get ready for an incredible trip!
The iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, one of the best things to see in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Strip: A Prime Hub for the Best Things to See in Las Vegas
The moment you arrive in Las Vegas, the sheer scale of the colossal hotels lining the Strip is immediately apparent. This central artery is where much of the action happens and will likely become your main area of exploration. The Strip itself is an experience, a vibrant tapestry of themed resorts, flashing lights, and endless activity. Just walking along it is one of the best things to see in Las Vegas, revealing unique sights and sounds around every corner.
It’s long, so don’t feel pressured to walk the whole length; monorails and taxis are readily available at each hotel. As you stroll, you’ll encounter an incredible variety of shops, dazzling shows, and captivating street performers, offering spontaneous moments that add to the city’s charm.
Iconic Hotel Attractions: Experiencing the Best Things to See in Las Vegas
Beyond just walking by, the hotels on the Strip are destinations in themselves, each offering unique attractions.
Gondola Rides at The Venetian
A gondola gliding along the indoor canals at The Venetian, a unique experience among the best things to see in Las Vegas
Inside the elaborate Venetian Hotel, you can take a serene gondola ride through detailed recreations of Venetian canals. It feels surreal to glide past shops and diners under a painted sky indoors! It’s a truly unique way to see a different side of the hotel’s impressive design. To make it even better, booking a ticket that includes Madame Tussauds combines two classic Vegas experiences. While some hotel themes might lean towards the kitschy, embracing the playful vibe allows you to fully enjoy these imaginative spectacles.
Indoor canal view at The Venetian hotel in Las Vegas, showcasing detailed Italian-inspired architecture
Outdoor gondola ride passing under a bridge at The Venetian, one of the quintessential best things to see in Las Vegas
Scaling The STRAT Tower
The STRAT Tower dominating the Las Vegas skyline, offering panoramic views and thrill rides
The STRAT (formerly Stratosphere) is one of Las Vegas’s enduring landmarks. Heading to the top provides unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the vast Nevada landscape beyond. Booking tickets for the Skypod observation deck is a fantastic way to orient yourself and appreciate the sheer scale of Las Vegas. For adrenaline junkies, the thrill rides perched hundreds of feet in the air are a must-try. I still remember my first time on the rollercoaster and freefall ride up there – I screamed so loud my family three floors down could hear me! It’s an exhilarating experience and certainly one of the more thrilling best things to see in Las Vegas, especially if you need a break from the casino floors.
Thrill ride extending out from the top of The STRAT Tower, offering breathtaking views over Las Vegas
World-Class Shows: Among the Best Things to See in Las Vegas
Interior of a Las Vegas show theater, ready for a performance
Las Vegas is synonymous with spectacular entertainment. The concentration of visitors and resources means the city attracts world-renowned performers and productions. From legendary music residencies to the breathtaking acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil, catching a show is a quintessential Vegas experience and one of the best things to see in Las Vegas. During our stay at the Bellagio, we saw a Cirque du Soleil show and were absolutely captivated. It was the perfect way to kick off an evening out. Many shows offer tickets on the day, but for popular productions, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Audience watching a captivating Cirque du Soleil performance in a Las Vegas theater, a highlight of the city’s entertainment sceneGaming Excitement: Visiting the Famous Casinos
Interior shot of a busy casino floor in Las Vegas with slot machines and gamblers
Where to Go After Las Vegas? Top Road Trips & Destinations
Las Vegas’s fame was built on its casinos, and experiencing the electric atmosphere of a casino floor is undeniably one of the best things to see in Las Vegas (and do!). These spaces are designed to be vast and captivating, encouraging you to stay and play. A crucial tip I always follow is to set a strict budget for what you are comfortable losing. Framing it this way helps keep expectations realistic and prevents overspending. On my last trip, I walked away up a modest, but satisfying, $8! Exploring the different casinos is an experience in itself; each hotel’s casino has its own distinct style and energy. Don’t forget to take advantage of the complimentary drinks offered to players – just remember to tip your server to ensure attentive service throughout your visit. Be mindful of the environment: casinos notoriously lack windows or clocks, making it easy to lose track of time. Setting an alarm can be helpful if you don’t want to spend your entire day immersed in gaming.
More gamblers trying their luck at slot machines in a brightly lit Las Vegas casino
Iconic Landmarks: The Las Vegas Sign & Bellagio Fountains
The famous Bellagio Fountains illuminated at night, a must-see free attraction in Las Vegas
Staying at the Bellagio during a road trip was a highlight, not least because of its central Strip location and stunning lobby art (Dale Chihuly’s Fiori di Como is mesmerising!). Just outside, the Bellagio Fountains provide one of the most iconic and free spectacles in the city. These aren’t just fountains; they’re a choreographed water ballet set to music, a truly impressive sight and one of the best things to see in Las Vegas without spending a dime. The shows run frequently throughout the day and evening.
Tourists posing for photos in front of the classic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign
Another quintessential, albeit brief, stop is the classic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. Located just south of the main Strip, past the Luxor hotel, it’s an older piece of Vegas history and a popular spot for photos. While you might only spend ten minutes here, seeing this historical sign is definitely one of the classic best things to see in Las Vegas if you appreciate the city’s past.
History & Culture: Discovering the Best Things to See in Las Vegas Beyond the Strip
Las Vegas isn’t just about the glittering facade; it has a rich, albeit relatively young, history. Exploring areas slightly off the main Strip offers a different perspective.
The Neon Museum
Collection of vintage neon signs at the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, preserving the city’s history
Founded in the 1990s during a period of rapid demolition and construction of mega-casinos, the Neon Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the iconic neon signs that once defined Las Vegas’s streetscape. Wandering through this outdoor collection feels like stepping back in time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s glittering past. It’s easily one of the most historically significant and visually interesting best things to see in Las Vegas for anyone keen on history and design. Learn more about the Neon Museum.
Fremont Street
Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas offers a stark contrast to the polished Strip. It has a raw, energetic vibe and represents an older part of the city’s development. The covered walkway, the Fremont Street Experience, features a massive LED screen overhead showcasing dazzling light and sound shows. Beyond the visual spectacle, Fremont Street is home to older casinos, live music, and street performers. For thrill-seekers, the SlotZilla zipline sends you soaring over the crowds below – it’s totally fun! Taking a taxi is often the easiest way to get here from the Strip.
People riding the SlotZilla zipline over the crowds on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas
Thrilling Day Trips: Exploring Wonders Near Las Vegas
Las Vegas’s location in the American Southwest makes it a perfect base for exploring incredible natural and engineering wonders just a short drive away. While technically not in Las Vegas, these nearby sights are frequently considered among the best things to see near Las Vegas and are easily accessible as day trips.
Helicopter Tour Over the Grand Canyon
A helicopter flies over the vast landscape of the Grand Canyon
For a truly unforgettable experience, book an incredible helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. Seeing this natural wonder from above is breathtaking, and many tours include special touches like champagne upon landing in the canyon. These tours are popular, so booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season. While an investment, it’s a unique perspective on one of the world’s most famous canyons, usually lasting a few hours including transfers and briefings. Ask your hotel concierge about potential deals.
Read more: Best things to do in the Grand Canyon
Driving to Death Valley
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The vast, arid landscape of Death Valley National Park under a clear sky](https://i0.wp.com/handluggageonly.co.uk/2018/09/30/21-fun-cities-in the-us-you-have-to-visit/)
Stepping out of the city for a day trip to Death Valley offers a surreal contrast to the glitz of Vegas. This is one of the hottest places on Earth, with dramatic landscapes that are both stark and stunning. Preparation is key – pack plenty of water and supplies as temperatures can be extreme, and roadside assistance is limited. Booking a small-group tour from Las Vegas makes the journey easier and safer. Tours typically visit key spots like Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Mule Team Canyon, offering incredible geological insights.
Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, known for its vast salt flats
Seeing the Hoover Dam
View of the immense Hoover Dam, a significant engineering marvel near Las Vegas
If you’re driving to or from Las Vegas, particularly from the Arizona direction, a stop at the Hoover Dam is highly recommended. This monumental engineering feat is truly massive and created Lake Mead, which you’ll see stretching out behind it. It’s a powerful reminder of human ingenuity and its impact on the landscape. Dinner cruises on Lake Mead offer a relaxing evening option before heading back to the city. For convenience, book a Hoover Dam express ticket from Las Vegas which handles transportation. Additionally, Las Vegas is a common starting point for multi-day tours exploring the wider region, such as this epic 3-day trip to the Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, and Monument Valley, which I absolutely loved.
Read more: 21 Fun Cities In The US To Visit
From the dizzying heights of The STRAT and the historical glow of the Neon Museum to the theatrical grandeur of the Bellagio Fountains and the raw beauty of nearby Death Valley, the best things to see in Las Vegas offer a diverse spectrum of experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the non-stop energy of the Strip or the quieter stories of the city’s past, Las Vegas has a way of surprising you. Embrace the unique atmosphere, set your own pace, and discover the many sides of this extraordinary city.