25 Fun Things to do in Las Vegas (besides gambling)!
Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, is most well known for its’ abundance of world-class casinos. However, these casinos, and Vegas in general, offer much more than gaming opportunities. In fact, you can easily spend an entire Vegas vacation enjoying various shows, attractions, and sightseeing without putting a dime into the slots.
There is much fun to be had anytime of the day, any time of the year you visit. The great thing about Vegas is that it’s a 24/7 destination with fun attractions for everyone. While making your Vegas itinerary, keep in mind a few of my ideas for some budget-friendly, non-gaming fun! Enjoy the list and be sure to add some of your own ideas for gaming-free fun in Vegas!
1. Check out the Mirage volcano show
One of the best shows on The Strip is the explosive volcano show at The Mirage, erupting at 8, 9, 10, and 11pm every night. You can feel the heat of the fireballs shooting out of the volcano, in tune with a great soundtrack from The Grateful Dead’s drummer Mickey Hart and Zakir Hussain. The show, like all others, is popular so get there early (especially during the summer season!).
Update: Sadly, the volcano will erupt for the last time in summer of 2023.
2. Be dazzled by the spectacular Bellagio Fountain show
Every half hour from 3-6:30pm and every 15 minutes from 7pm-Midnight, the fountains in front of the beautiful Bellagio resort dance along to a dazzling musical light show. The amazing choreographed show is a real treat to see (day or night). Just get here early enough to enjoy a front row view! The fountains are quite a sight as they dance along in harmony to all different types of music. From Broadway to Classical tunes, the show is simply spectacular!
3. Shop ‘Til you Drop at The Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace
Caesars Forum Shops is a collection of luxury designer shops located right on-site at this fabulous resort. It’s the most upscale and extravagant shopping area in Vegas. Whether you are looking to indulge in an all day designer shopping excursion or just looking to window shop, it’s hard not to be overtaken by the stunning Roman themed design and beautiful faux starry sky. Here you will find most of the high end retailers like Armani, Gucci, Valentino, Marc Jacobs, and much more. Over 160 shops line this massive 300,000+ square foot mall.
4. Slide through a shark tank at the Golden Nugget
The unique 200,000 gallon shark pool inside Fremont Streets’ Golden Nugget is most unusual. Here you can slide down a waterslide right in the middle of a Shark tank! It’s worth staying at this hotel just to experience this eclectic swimming pool. It was even featured on a segment on Travel Channel about “the world’s most extreme pools.” Swimming and just lounging around the pool area will also give you a great view. Don’t worry if you are not a hotel guest as pool viewing is open from 8am-midnight to anyone.
5. Take pics of The Strip at night
Sometimes the most basic, overlooked activities end up being the most worthwhile. Simply walking around The Strip at night, taking in all the lights and glamour, is an incredible, memorable experience. Nighttime is so much more exciting and dazzling. Everything looks so much more alive and spectacular in company of millions of lights. Some of the best views and photos can be experienced at the escalator near the Miracle Mile Shops of Planet Hollywood. Note the cover photo was taken here. Built as a convenient way for tourists to exit North on The Strip, it is more well known as a scenic view and photography hotspot.
