Top Things to Do in Exciting Las Vegas: Shows, Pools, Parks & More

Explore the Famous Las Vegas Strip

No trip to Las Vegas would be complete without a stroll down the iconic Las Vegas Strip. The neon-lit boulevard features larger-than-life resorts like Caesars Palace, The Venetian, and the Bellagio fountains. Be prepared for sensory overload with flashing lights and excited crowds. The Strip comes alive at night so make sure to experience it after dark when everything is illuminated. Some top attractions along the Strip include:

The Bellagio Fountains

This choreographed water show takes place in front of the Bellagio hotel and features timed water jets that "dance" to music. New shows run every 30 minutes so you can take in multiple viewings.

The Canals and Gondolas at The Venetian

Feel like you've been whisked away to Venice, Italy as you ride a gondola through the indoor canals at The Venetian. Don't forget to look up and admire the blue sky painted on the ceilings for full effect.

The Mirage Volcano

Every evening on the hour, catch an erupting volcano show right in front of The Mirage Hotel & Casino. Flames and lights shoot into the sky, synchronized with a soundtrack for an exciting free spectacle.

Tour the Grand Canyon

Take a day trip to marvel at one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, the magnificent Grand Canyon. Most tours depart early from Las Vegas and include roundtrip transportation and stops at the best scenic outlooks along the South Rim. Some tours add helicopter flights or boat rides down the Colorado River for a more adventurous visit.

Horseshoe Bend Overlook

This famous curved cliff overlook offers incredible top-down views of the Colorado River 1,000 feet below. It's about a 2 mile roundtrip walk to the viewpoint. Definitely bring your camera!

Grand Canyon Skywalk

Venture out on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. Get thrilling views of the canyon and Colorado river below your feet from this unique vantage point.

Marvel at Red Rock Canyon

Formed by sandstone, limestone and shale, the red rock formations of Red Rock Canyon are absolutely stunning. The park features a 13-mile scenic drive with access to hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. Go for sunrise or sunset when the rocks appear even more vibrant.

Lost Creek Canyon Trail

This 2.7 mile out and back trail follows a creek bed to a small waterfall, surrounded by colorful red rock walls. It's a great introductory hike that can be easily completed in under 2 hours.

Calico Hills Trail

For more experienced hikers, the Calico Hills trail is very steep but rewards with panoramic views at the top. It also passes by the brilliant red Calico Hills rock formations which make great photo backdrops.

Enjoy Las Vegas Shows

Las Vegas is known for its resident shows featuring top singers, dancers, comedians and more. It may be difficult choosing just one production to see! Budget and plan for this activity ahead of your trip as some popular shows sell out quickly.

Cirque du Soleil

This creative Canadian circus troupe combines unbelievable acrobatics, colorful costumes, music and dance for spellbinding shows. Popular Las Vegas Cirque productions include "O", "Mystere" and "Michael Jackson ONE" - each with its own unique theme.

Blue Man Group

For family-friendly offbeat fun, catch the Blue Man Group's quirky spectacle at the Luxor which combines music, comedy and multimedia effects. You'll be amazed watching them play unusual instruments and interact with the audience.

Party Poolside

Las Vegas hotels really know how to do pools! Upgrade your stay with a poolside cabana or daybed, order drinks and spend a relaxing day soaking up the notorious Vegas sun at one of these hot spots:

Encore Beach Club at the Encore

Indulge in luxury at this upscale pool club with its tropical theme, open-air gambling, poolside gaming tables and excellent DJs. Dance the afternoon away under lush palms and cool off in the plunge pools when you need a break.

Mandalay Beach at Mandalay Bay

At this sprawling pool area, you'll find an actual sand-filled beach, wave pool, lazy river, regular swimming pools - and even a casino right on the sand! Enjoy frozen drinks at one of the many bars and relax to the sounds of live concerts many weekends.

Explore Fremont Street

For vintage Vegas charm, take an evening to explore the Fremont Street Experience pedestrian mall downtown. The entire street is covered under an arched LED canopy that projects dazzling sound and light shows every night on the hour. Be sure to check out classic casino neon signs and budget-friendly gaming options after the free light show.

SlotZilla Zip Line

For thrill-seekers, ride 12 stories up to the "Zoomline" or "Zip Line" for an exciting aerial view of Fremont Street. Riders are launched in a horizontal "superman" flying position down to a landing near the main stage.

Heart Attack Grill

This hospital-themed restaurant downtown lets you pig out on calorie-laden burgers and fries with a fun Vegas twist - guests over 350 pounds eat for free! Nurses dressed as, well...naughty nurses, help with the outlandish experience.

FAQs

How far in advance should I book Las Vegas shows?

Book your Las Vegas shows as early as possible, even months in advance for very popular productions like Cirque du Soleil. Show tickets sell out quickly since seating is limited.

What is the best Las Vegas hotel pool?

Mandalay Beach at Mandalay Bay and Encore Beach Club at Encore are frequently ranked among the best Vegas pools with sand beaches, wave pools, cabanas, gaming and excellent DJs spinning poolside.

What is there to do on the Las Vegas Strip at night?

The Las Vegas Strip comes alive at night with the fountains at Bellagio, the erupting volcano at The Mirage and extensive neon lighting displays up and down the boulevard. It's also the prime time to catch a spectacular resident show.

How much does it cost to do a Grand Canyon day tour from Vegas?

Most full-day Grand Canyon bus tours cost $80-$150 per person including transportation, stops at the best overlooks and lunch. Helicopter or rafting tour packages are pricier but also more adventurous.

Is Fremont Street safe at night?

Fremont Street is generally safe due to high pedestrian traffic and a major police presence. Individual casinos and bars may require a cover charge after certain hours. Avoid wandering onto darker side streets off the main pedestrian area.