Welcome to a new series of trip highlights starting with the city of Las Vegas! Bright lights, iconic shows, and endless entertainment awaits you at this destination. I’ll cover must-see attractions, some fun activities, optional day trips, and other travel tips.
Attractions
- Las Vegas Strip
This is the most recognizable street in Las Vegas, home to nearly all of the attractions you’ll visit when in Las Vegas.
- Las Vegas Sign
The sign is somewhat underwhelming because it isn’t very large but it often marks the beginning and end of your journey as the first thing outside the Las Vegas airport. I still wouldn’t skip parking and getting a picture, but I recommend skipping the line and getting a picture on the side ends.
- Pinball Hall of Fame
I visited the Pinball Hall of Fame, filled with classic and vintage pinball machines, towards the end of my trip. This spot is great for players of any level, just have cash or card on hand, enter the building, exchange money at the machines to get quarters, and play! Besides pinball, there are also games like Pac-Man, Dance Arcade Machine, Racing Games, and more.
- Bellagio Fountains
See the hours of operations online to not miss the stunning fountain shows every 30 or 15 minutes depending on the time of day. It’s nice to relax from walking and all the music from the street sellers and performers is muted so everyone can enjoy the music played alongside the fountain show. If you have the chance, also check out the free Bellagio gardens with themed decorations.
- The LINQ Promenade
This street has shopping, dining, and entertainment including an observation wheel and ziplines. Although I haven’t been on the High Roller Observation Wheel, it is certainly another attraction you can add to your list. This street is generally better to visit during the evening.
- Forum Shops at Caesars
This shopping destination has an interesting sky-painted ceiling that mimics daylight. I didn’t do a lot of shopping in this area but I recommend visiting to cool down from the heat outside.
- The Venetian
Indoor canals, gondola rides, and Italian-inspired architecture are the romantic highlights of this hotel. Make sure to spend your money wisely as the short gondola rides may not be as exciting as you may think.
- Fashion Show Mall
If you want to shop, eat a quick meal, or relax, this shopping mall may be for you. Given that sight-seeing was my main priority, I didn’t spend a lot of time here. For those wondering whether fashion shows exist, I will add that the shows have been mostly discontinued after COVID though they may come back!
- Casinos
I would generally recommend exploring casinos that interest you as many have unique designs such as the pyramid-shaped Luxor hotel or the grand chandelier at the Cosmopolitan.
- Fremont Street
Take The Deuce, a 24-hr double-decker bus service, or a car to this downtown highlight with an LED canopy light show, live music, and vibrant street performers. Every hour there is a music light show with music and synchronized visuals on the Fremont Street LED canopy, check out online for who’ll be playing.
Additional Activities
- See a Show
There are plenty of shows to see at Las Vegas including comedy, magic, musicals, or Cirque du Soleil. I personally saw Mat Franco, the first magician to win America’s Got Talent, and I was stunned! The show was interactive and funny — I’d say 10/10!
- Try the Slotzilla Zipline at Fremont Street
Fremont Street is exciting on its own but you can also go on the Slotzilla Zipline! Every so often I saw people zip above me as they soar across the street either sitting or laying down superman-style.
- Find iconic spots or seasonal events
There are a wide variety of activities such as visiting flamingos at the Flamingo hotel, grabbing a bite at the Downtown Container park, or watching fireworks. I recommend doing your own research so you can find what interests you!
Day Trips
- Grand Canyon
Wake up early and if you have a car, drive to the Grand Canyon, only a few hours away. Pack a lunch because this will likely become a whole-day trip, especially if you plan to head to Grand Canyon South. I would also recommend using sunscreen, wearing a hat, and taking advantage of the shuttle buses to travel along the Grand Canyon rim.
- Valley of Fire State Park
If you don’t want to drive for 4-5 hours the Valley of Fire State Park is less than an hour away and is absolutely stunning. You can drive through the park or stop by and take a short hike. Be sure to pack water, it may be hot!
- Hoover Dam
I would recommend arriving as soon as Hoover Dam opens and booking a full tour to learn more about the structure. The tour was informative and the experience was far more interesting than I expected because I learned the background behind how the dam was built and its purpose.
Tips
- Consider making a spreadsheet itinerary to organize your trip effectively + use google pins to mark down attractions, food spots, etc.
- Don’t overplan — you’ll easily find an attraction or something to explore when walking down the Las Vegas Strip
- Use hotel safes to hold valuables
- Know that buildings are farther than you think — take advantage of air conditioning in stores and The Deuce (24-hr double-decker bus service)
- Ride the free trams to travel faster (Mandalay Bay Tram, Aria Express Tram, Treasure Island Tram)
YouTube videos and blogs are some of the best resources to use when planning your trip! Las Vegas certainly offers a little something for everyone so consider making it your next adventure.
