The 12 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas (and Top Things to Avoid)
Las Vegas is more than just neon lights, casinos, and nightlife. The “City of Sin” has an ever-changing list of attractions, restaurants, shows, and hotels that keep visitors coming back year after year. Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’ve been here dozens of times, there’s always something new to discover.
Here’s a curated list of the 12 best things to do in Las Vegas, the must-try restaurants, where to stay, and a few things worth avoiding so your experience is as dazzling as the Strip itself.
1. The Sphere
Where: The Strip
This LED-lit entertainment venue is impossible to miss, glowing like a futuristic globe on the Vegas skyline. From the outside, it’s mesmerizing, but the real magic happens inside. Watch concerts, immersive shows, or the groundbreaking film “Postcards from Earth”, which mixes 4D visuals with thought-provoking storytelling about humanity’s impact on the planet. Arrive early to explore the interactive art installations, and book seats in the 200–300 sections for the best wraparound experience.
2. 18b Arts District
Where: Arts District
Step away from the glitz of the Strip and into the creative heartbeat of Vegas. Murals, street art, converted warehouses, and quirky shops give 18b its character. Visit Thursday through Sunday evenings when the area comes alive, or time your trip for the First Friday Festival, where local musicians, food trucks, and artists take over the streets.
3. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Where: Bellagio Resort & Casino
A free 24/7 attraction, the Bellagio Conservatory transforms every season with floral displays, fairy-tale gazebos, and sculptures crafted from natural materials. It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy stops in Vegas. Just note: avoid dining at The Garden Table unless you’re comfortable being part of the spectacle.
4. Fountains of Bellagio
Where: Bellagio Resort & Casino
Timeless and romantic, the Bellagio Fountains dance to music every 30 minutes by day and every 15 minutes at night. With jets reaching 460 feet into the air, it’s an enchanting sight—whether you’re with family or holding hands with someone special. Each show is unique, so it’s worth watching more than once.
5. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Where: 17 miles west of the Strip
When neon gets overwhelming, escape into nature. Drive the 13-mile scenic loop, hike one of the 30 trails, or watch world-class climbers tackle red sandstone cliffs. Bring water, good shoes, and layers—desert weather changes fast. Reservations are required for scenic drives October–May.
6. Grand Prix Plaza
Where: The Strip
A paradise for Formula 1 fans, Grand Prix Plaza mixes racing history with cutting-edge technology. Suit up for F1-inspired go-karting, design your own virtual car, and dine at Fuel & Fork. If you visit on Grand Prix Sunday, catch the action live on screen, meet drivers, and enjoy fan festivities.
7. “O” by Cirque du Soleil
Where: Bellagio Resort & Casino
The aquatic stage holds 1.5 million gallons of water, setting the scene for breathtaking performances by Olympic swimmers, divers, and acrobats. To elevate your experience, splurge on the La Grande Experience, which includes VIP lounge access, champagne, and behind-the-scenes secrets.
8. DISCOSHOW
Where: The LINQ Hotel + Experience
This isn’t a sit-back performance—it’s an interactive disco party straight out of 1970s New York. With drag hosts, rollerblading dancers, and LED backdrops, it’s high-energy fun. Dress in sequins, wear comfy shoes, and be ready to dance all night—there are no seats here!
9. Downtown Container Park
Where: Downtown Las Vegas
Built from shipping containers, this family-friendly open-air venue features boutique shops, eateries, and live entertainment. Kids can enjoy The Treehouse playground, while adults can hang out at night when the park turns 21+. Don’t miss the massive praying mantis sculpture that shoots flames after dark.
10. Fremont East Entertainment District
Where: Fremont
Beyond the classic Fremont Street Experience lies a hip six-block neighborhood buzzing with bars, food halls, and art galleries. Check out the Downtown Rocks Concert Series for free live music. Lucky visitors might stumble into Mexican bingo nights, street art shows, or themed block parties.
11. The Mob Museum
Where: Downtown
Step into history at this fascinating museum dedicated to organized crime and law enforcement. Exhibits cover everything from old-school mobsters to modern cybercrime. End your visit with a cocktail in the basement speakeasy (password changes weekly).
12. Grand Canal Shoppes
Where: The Venetian Resort
Venice meets Vegas here. Wander cobblestone streets, sip espresso at Italian-inspired cafés, and take a gondola ride under painted skies. Gondoliers even serenade visitors, adding to the charm—without the airfare to Italy.
Things to Avoid in Las Vegas
1. Getting Dehydrated
Desert heat is no joke. Carry a refillable bottle, apply sunscreen, and pace yourself. Skip expensive IV hydration services—mocktails and water will keep you just as refreshed.
2. Unsolicited Discounts
Ignore strangers offering free tickets or VIP deals. They often come with scams or aggressive sales pitches. Always book directly through hotels or official ticketing sites.
Must-Try Restaurants
- Bazaar Mar by José Andrés (The Shops at Crystals) – An innovative seafood feast with stunning Spanish décor. Try the lobster croquetas and squid Po Boy.
- Washing Potato (Fontainebleau Las Vegas) – Chic Hong Kong-style dim sum and cocktails in a trendy setting. Don’t miss the Peking duck and Singapore noodles.
- Emmitt’s Vegas (Fashion Show Las Vegas) – NFL legend Emmitt Smith’s sports-themed steakhouse. The Tomahawk steak and butter cake are worth the splurge.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
- Best Budget Hotel – Downtown Grand Las Vegas
Affordable yet stylish, near Fremont Street. Great rooftop pool and frequent promotions. - Best Boutique Hotel – The English Hotel
Adults-only, artsy, and intimate. Perfect if you want a creative vibe away from the Strip. - Best Luxury Hotel – Fontainebleau Las Vegas
A 67-story icon redefining Vegas luxury. Panoramic Strip views, a lavish spa, and world-class dining await.
Final Tips for Visiting Las Vegas
- Best seasons: spring and fall (but expect higher crowds).
- Summer offers cheaper deals if you don’t mind the heat.
- Avoid taxis during peak hours; use trams, monorails, or the Vegas Loop.
- There’s always something new—so even repeat visits never feel the same.
Las Vegas is a city of endless reinvention, where nature, art, food, and entertainment collide. Whether you’re marveling at fountains, hiking red rocks, or dancing until dawn, the city promises unforgettable experiences—just know when to say no to scams and yes to new adventures.
