Las Vegas is widely known as a city that has all kinds of entertainment. It is also referred to as ‘Sin City’ due to the presence of a myriad of activities that are associated with excesses and unwind. Las Vegas is known to be a destination for gambling, drinking, entertainment, shopping, among other things. This bustling and brimming metropolis has an assortment of attractions for visitors who are either staying for a weekend or longer. Whether you are on a tight schedule or have a little time to spare, it’s still possible to experience the best that Las Vegas has to offer. The list below gives an overview of what you can do when you visit the Las Vegas city.
1. Explore the Las Vegas Strip
The Strip is the epicentre of Las Vegas: a four-mile stretch of world-class casinos, hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. Stroll the Strip and watch the lights and larger-than-life billboards dance around you in all directions. Gaze in awe as people from all walks of life pass by with a sense of purpose on this magical mile. Take a break for iconic stops such as the Bellagio Fountains and its energetic water show every half hour and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas for unforgettable views of the city from above.
2. Catch a Show
When it comes to live entertainment, Las Vegas has it all. You can see magicians performing illusions of all kinds, comedy acts, Cirque du Soleil shows – pretty much anything you can imagine. Great headliner residencies, such as David Copperfield’s magic act and stand-up comedy performances from Jerry Seinfeld, Carrot Top, Terry Fator and others, are on offer at MGM Grand, Planet Hollywood and the Mirage. Bellagio, Mandalay Bay and Wynn Las Vegas also host Cirque du Soleil shows, and at the Cosmopolitan, you can catch contemporary and classic music performances by big-name acts such as Adele, Usher, Katy Perry and Sting.
3. Visit Fremont Street
Also, for those who want to take a step back in time (and avoid the glitz) to experience what Las Vegas was like before The Strip existed, check out the historic Fremont Street downtown (just over a mile away). Viva Vision Light Show. Photo courtesy: WikipediaFremont has the old-school casinos, street performers, and live music. The best attraction is Fremont Street Experience, a huge LED screen covering the road that performs a light and music show called the Viva Vision Light Show free every night, with some of the best free entertainment that Vegas has to offer.
4. Tour the Neon Museum
For those interested in Las Vegas history, one attraction worth visiting is the Neon Museum, an outdoor museum that collects vintage Vegas signs and preserves them for posterity. Join a guided tour and witness neon signs from long-gone hotels and casinos that helped shape Las Vegas’s skyline.
5. Take a Day Trip to the Grand Canyon
The perfect way to escape the neon lights for a day, a trip to the Grand Canyon is facilitated by numerous tour companies offering day trips from Las Vegas. You can walk the rim of the canyon, take a helicopter tour or take a float trip down the Colorado River. The Hoover Dam is en route as well.
6. Try Your Luck at the Casinos
Of course, what trip to Vegas would be complete without the opportunity to tempt fate at one of the city’s many casinos? From the Bellagio, Caesars Palace and MGM Grand to the less well-known, try your hand at blackjack, poker, roulette and slot machines. Even if you aren’t into gambling, the interiors are fascinating to explore because of their luxurious décor or attention-grabbing themes.
7. Dine at World-Class Restaurants
Las Vegas has a fine dining scene that rivals top culinary destinations worldwide with lauded celebrity eateries from Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, Giada De Laurentiis and more. The city also boasts many choices from steakhouses and high-end fine dining to quick meals from bistros to fast food chains.
8. Visit the High Roller Observation Wheel
If you want a panoramic view of Las Vegas, try The High Roller Observation Wheel, the tallest observation wheel in the world. It sits at The LINQ Promenade and the ride is 30 minutes. It is especially beautiful at night when the city lights up. Each cabin seats 40 people, so it’s a fun group activity or a romantic date.
9. Explore Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a beautiful oasis just 30 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Here you can walk through deep red canyons, take in panoramic views, see wildlife, and explore more than 25 miles of hiking trails. Red Rock Canyon is a great option if you are looking to escape the city and relax with family and friends.
Final Tips for Your Las Vegas Trip
Las Vegas has something for everyone. Here are a couple of final tips before you head out there:
Plan ahead: Popular shows and restaurants book up fast, so make reservations in advance.
Stay hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, especially in the summer months.
Get off the Strip: Although the Strip is the main draw, downtown Las Vegas and the surrounding desert features are worthwhile diversions.
Indeed, Las Vegas never sleeps, offering a wide variety of entertainment, relaxation and fun at all times of the day. Whether you’re there to play in the casinos, watch the shows or enjoy the beautiful landscape, Las Vegas is definitely a place for a trip you’ll never forget.