100+ Free Things to Do in Las Vegas
Is it possible to visit Las Vegas on a budget? Yes, it is!
As both a Las Vegas local and a former tourist, I know how easy it can be to spend a lot of money here. I've done my fair share of exploring in and around Vegas, and while I am more than happy to pay for an experience if it's worth it, I do love a good free or affordable find! And lucky for you, there’s plenty of that here if you know where to look!
If you want to visit Vegas on the cheap, I've got you! There are tons of free attractions to see and free things to do in Las Vegas that you can enjoy, even if you're on a budget!
Credit: @24ameer
Are there free things to do in Las Vegas?
Looking for things to do in Las Vegas for free?
Whether you’re a tourist visiting Sin City on a budget, or you’re a local wanting to save money on The Strip, don’t worry, you can still have fun in Vegas without spending a dime! Keep reading for the ultimate list of over 100 free things to do in Las Vegas!
Free things to do and see on The Las Vegas Strip
Here are free things to do and see on The Strip along Las Vegas Boulevard!
See the iconic Las Vegas Sign
Sitting at the south end of the famous Las Vegas Blvd lies the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign! Being one of the most iconic photo spots in Vegas, the Welcome to Las Vegas sign is a free attraction that is a must-do on your Vegas trip! Due to its popularity, I highly recommend you visit during the weekdays and/or as early as possible to avoid the crowds. They also have a free parking lot too!
Tip: If you end up visiting the Welcome to Las Vegas sign during a busy day/time and there is a line, don't worry you can still get a good photo! Instead of waiting to take a photo straight on, step to the left or right side of the sign, there are usually no lines or shorter lines for that option and photos look just as great from that angle!
Credit: @jannerboy62
Watch the Bellagio Fountain show
Another one of the most popular and iconic free attractions in Vegas is the fountains at the Bellagio! The Bellagio fountain show is a captivating display of choreographed water, light, and music that takes place in front of the Bellagio and features a series of fountains located in an eight-acre lake and is known for its spectacular synchronized water movements. The free show runs Monday through Friday every half hour from 3pm until 7pm and every 15 minutes from 7pm until 11:55pm. On Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays the show runs every 30 minutes from 12pm until 7pm, every 15 minutes from 7pm until 11:55pm.
Walk through the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is located inside the Bellagio just past the hotel lobby. Visitors are free to stroll through the lush gardens to enjoy the beautiful fresh floral arrangements and marvel at the creative displays that are installed each season. In the past, they've featured a gingerbread house, hot air balloon, towering giraffes, a massive Christmas tree, and more!
Check out the world's largest chocolate fountain at the Bellagio
Located inside the Bellagio at the Bellagio Patisserie, stands the world's tallest chocolate fountain! This magnificent work of chocolate art is 27 feet tall and pumps over 2 tons of chocolate through its pipes — it's truly a delicious sight to see!
See the Fiori di Como Art Display by Dale Chihuly at the Bellagio
The Fiori di Como Art Display is a renowned artwork created by artist Dale Chihuly. This beautiful art display is situated right above the hotel lobby inside the Bellagio Hotel. The art installation consists of an impressive glass sculpture suspended from the ceiling of the hotel's lobby. The sculpture is composed of over 2,000 hand-blown glass blossoms in vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience for viewers.
Credit: @ratlady
Watch the Eiffel Tower light show at Paris Las Vegas
The Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas is a half-scale replica of the famous landmark in Paris, France. Located at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino, it offers breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Strip from its observation deck. The Eiffel Tower also features a stunning light show that illuminates the night sky every 30 minutes from sunset to midnight. The light show adds a touch of romance and charm, capturing the essence of the original Eiffel Tower in Paris while offering a unique experience in the heart of Las Vegas.
Explore The Floral Atrium at the Mirage
The Mirage Atrium is like a little tropical desert oasis! The Atrium features gorgeous tropical elements like blue lagoons, cascading waterfalls, palm trees, and more! It's free to visit and is open 24 hours 7 days a week.
See the volcano show at the Mirage
The volcano at the Mirage Las Vegas stands approximately 54 feet tall and is designed to resemble a real volcano, with a little Vegas twist, of course. Every hour on the hour from 7pm-11pm (Note: schedules are subject to change if high winds are present) the volcano "erupts" into a show that combines fire, water, and music to create an explosive and unforgettable experience. This legendary free show is sadly coming to an end soon to make room for the new Hard Rock guitar so definitely try to see it before they tear it down.
See the Coral Reef Aquarium at the Mirage
The Coral Reef Aquarium at the Mirage is a mesmerizing underwater world that showcases a diverse array of marine life. With over 1,000 coral reef animals from 85 different species, the aquarium offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the ocean. This massive 20,000-gallon saltwater tank is situated directly behind the hotel lobby front desk. Visitors can visit for free to marvel at the colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and even sharks!
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Explore the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Las Vegas
The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Las Vegas offer a unique shopping experience reminiscent of the romantic streets of Venice, Italy. With charming cobblestone walkways and picturesque canals, gondola rides, and singing gondoliers, the Grand Canal Shoppes offer a touch of European elegance in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip! Roam the shops and enjoy the Venetian ambiance for free!
See Streetmosphere and other live performances at The Venetian Las Vegas
The Streetmosphere is a free show at the Venetian's St. Mark's Square in the Grand Canal Shoppes. The show immerses you in vivacious Italian culture with live performances from talented vocalists, musicians, and dancers. In the same area, you can also find street performers dressed as "living statues" and musical performances as well!
Credit: @bel2000a
See the LOVE sculpture inside The Venetian
The LOVE sculpture at the Venetian Las Vegas is a striking art installation that combines vibrant colors and iconic imagery. Inspired by the original artwork by Robert Indiana, the sculpture features the word "LOVE" in bold, capital letters. The sculpture is a popular Vegas photo spot and has become a symbol of love and positivity at the Venetian.
Explore the live flamingo habitat at the Flamingo Hotel
Take a stroll through the tropical outdoor courtyard of the Flamingo Hotel to see real live flamingos up close, exotic ducks, koi fish, and more!
See the Palazzo Waterfall Atrium
The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium is a stunning indoor oasis located within The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino. It features a magnificent waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The tranquil atmosphere, enhanced by the soothing sound of water, provides a free, peaceful escape from the bustling Las Vegas Strip.
Visit Bauman Rare Books in the Palazzo
Bauman Rare Books is a renowned bookstore located in The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino. The store specializes in rare and collectible books and features a curated collection of first editions, signed copies, and historically significant books across various genres. It's a must-visit destination for book lovers and collectors!
Go window shopping at the Forum Shops
The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is a premier shopping destination on The Strip. With its opulent Roman-themed architecture and grand interiors, it offers a luxurious shopping experience. The mall is home to a wide range of upscale retailers, designer boutiques, and high-end fashion brands -- perfect for some luxury window shopping!
See The Fall of Atlantis Fountain Show at Forum Shops
The Fall of Atlantis Fountain Show is an animatronic display of fire, water, and nine-foot-tall talking statues at the Fountain of the Gods inside The Forum Shops. The story is set in the kingdom of Atlantis where a family feud ensues when King Atlas has to decide which of his kids will rule the throne. The free show plays Thursday through Monday every hour on the hour, starting at noon and ending at 8 pm.
See the Atlantis Aquarium at The Caesars Palace Forum Shops
Next to the Atlantis Show, you'll find the Atlantis Aquarium. Unique species of over 300 tropical fish can be found in the 50,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. Visitors can watch daily fish feedings at 1:15 and 5:15 pm. You can also take a complimentary below-the-scenes guided tour of the support facilities Mondays through Fridays at 3:15 pm.
Rub the five lucky rubbing spots at Caesars Palace
The five lucky rubbing spots at Caesars Palace are located near the entrance to the casino. They are brass statues embedded in the floor, featuring various designs such as a horseshoe, a four-leaf clover, a dice, a money symbol, and a ladybug. Visitors can rub these spots for good luck and a chance at fortune!
Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain replica is located outside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. While this replica is approximately half the size of the original Trevi Fountain in Rome, it is still an impressive sight to behold, featuring intricate sculptures, flowing water, and a stunning backdrop that adds to the ambiance of the surrounding shopping area.
See Wynn’s Lake of Dreams Show
The Wynn's Lake of Dreams Show is a mesmerizing multimedia show that features colorful puppetry, an immersive soundtrack, over 5,000 LED lights, a 90-foot performance waterfall, and more to create an unforgettable experience! The show is free to watch and runs nightly every half hour beginning at dusk.
Explore The Wynn's Floral Atrium
The Wynn Floral Atrium is a breathtaking display of natural beauty located inside the Wynn Resort. With its lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and intricate floral arrangements, it creates a serene and captivating environment. Similar to the Bellagio Conservatory, The Wynn Atrium showcases new floral designs and installations every season.
Explore The Park Las Vegas
The Park Las Vegas is an outdoor dining and entertainment district located on Las Vegas Boulevard. It offers a vibrant and open-air atmosphere with beautifully landscaped pathways, trees, and seating areas. The Park provides stunning views of iconic landmarks like New York-New York Hotel, MGM, and the T-Mobile Arena, making it an ideal spot to relax, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy live performances.
Visit M&M World
M&M World is a colorful and interactive retail store located on The Strip. It offers multiple levels of merchandise, displays, and activities related to the popular candy brand. Visitors can explore various themed sections, create personalized M&M candies, and browse through an extensive selection of M&M merchandise. M&M World is a fun and vibrant destination that brings out the inner child in everyone, making it a must-visit attraction for candy lovers and families!
Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World
Another free Las Vegas sweet spot is Hershey's Chocolate World! The store features a wide variety of Hershey's chocolates, candies, and merchandise, interactive experiences like creating personalized chocolate bars and exploring the Chocolate Tasting Adventure. With its inviting aroma, giant chocolate sculptures, and a wide range of confectionery delights, Hershey's Chocolate World Las Vegas is a must-visit paradise for chocolate lovers!
Visit the Coca-Cola Store
The Las Vegas Coca-Cola Store is a delightful destination for Coca-Cola enthusiasts and soda lovers! Located on The Strip (aka Las Vegas Blvd), visitors can explore the two-story store filled with a wide range of Coca-Cola merchandise, sample 16 of Coca-Cola's international offerings at their around the world at the rooftop bar, and even take a memorable photo with the famous Coca-Cola Polar Bear!
See The Statue of Liberty at New York New York Hotel
The Statue of Liberty at New York New York Hotel is a prominent and iconic symbol of the resort. Standing at approximately 150 feet tall (less than half the height of the original), the Lady Liberty of Las Vegas serves as a visual landmark and a reminder of the connection between Las Vegas and the vibrant spirit of New York City.
Credit: @_christianlambert
Walk the LINQ promenade
The LINQ Promenade is a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment district situated between The LINQ Hotel & Casino and The Flamingo Las Vegas. It features a lively atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy live entertainment, grab a free sample from the Ghirardelli shop, watch people zipline above, and admire the High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel!
See the Lobby Digital Experience at The Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan Lobby's digital art installation combines architecture, contemporary art, and technology to create an unexpected and dynamic experience. Eight 15-foot digital columns and a panel spanning the length of the front desk continuously display a curated library of digital art that transforms the space into an immersive living experience.
Take The Cosmopolitan Art Tour
The Cosmopolitan Art Tour is a captivating experience that allows visitors to explore the impressive art collection within The Cosmopolitan Hotel. Journey through various art installations and diverse exhibits, from thought-provoking sculptures to vibrant murals. You can choose to explore yourself or take a free art tour led by the famous Cosmopolitan Chatbot, Rose by texting "HIROSE” to 447673.
See the massive chandelier at the Cosmopolitan
The chandelier at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas is a massive and awe-inspiring installation that spans three stories. The chandelier serves as a centerpiece in the hotel's main lobby that adds a touch of glamour and luxury to the overall atmosphere of the casino. It's 7 million crystals and grand scale size create a dazzling and immersive experience you must see!
Watch the Miracle Mile Shops Rainstorm
The Miracle Mile Shops Rainstorm is a captivating and free immersive experience that takes place inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. The Rainstorm show features a simulated thunderstorm with cascading water, lightning effects, and synchronized music, creating a dramatic and refreshing atmosphere.
See the Aria City Center Fine Arts Collection
As Vegas' first permanent public space art collection, The ARIA Fine Art Collection features a wide collection of fine artworks, unique sculptures, and large-scale installations that you can visit and tour for free.
Visit Carnaval Court at Harrah’s
Carnaval Court at Harrah's is a vibrant open-air street party located on The Strip. With live bands, DJs, and energetic bartenders, it offers a lively atmosphere and a place to dance and enjoy music. The venue features interactive games, including beer pong and blackjack, making it a popular spot for entertainment and socializing.
See a Big Elvis Show at Harrah's Piano Bar
Big Elvis is one of the best free Las Vegas shows on the Strip where you can watch an Elvis impersonator perform over 900 songs, including an abundance of Elvis music, well-known hits, and more!
Get a free gambling lesson
Many casinos in Las Vegas offer free gambling lessons to their patrons for games like blackjack, craps, and roulette. Here are a few places to check out for a free lesson: The Venetian, Excalibur, The Plaza Hotel, Casino Royale, and The Stratosphere. It is important to note that these offerings can vary so it's always recommended to check with the specific casinos for their current schedules and availability of free gambling lessons.
See the pirate ship at Treasure Island
Treasure Island's pirate ship is a large-scale replica that stands about 100 feet tall. It is an impressive structure with intricate details and design elements resembling a classic pirate ship. It's a fun sight to see for both pirate enthusiasts and families!
Take free line dancing lessons
Gilley's at Treasure Island offers free line dancing lessons every Monday and Friday at 7 pm. Guests can learn the steps and techniques of line dancing from experienced instructors in a fun and lively environment. Whether you're a beginner or have some dance experience, the free line dancing lessons at Gilley's provide a great opportunity to enjoy the country-themed atmosphere while learning new moves.
See Egyptian-inspired replicas at the Luxor
Rising 350 feet into the sky, The Luxor Pyramid is a unique architectural marvel designed to resemble the ancient Egyptian pyramids, with a Las Vegas twist featuring a black glass exterior. Just in front of the Pyramid, lies The Luxor Sphinx, a grand and imposing statue inspired by the iconic Sphinx of Egypt, it stands tall at 101 feet and guards the entrance to the hotel. These unique pieces of architecture are fun to admire and take photos of!
See the world’s largest atrium at the Luxor
Aside from its grand pyramid structure, the Luxor's interior is considered to be the largest atrium in the world at an impressive 29 million cubic feet! Step inside and don't forget to look up to appreciate its grandeur!
Visit the Skyfall rooftop lounge for a view of The Strip
The Skyfall Lounge, located in the Delano at Mandalay Bay, offers breathtaking panoramic views of The Strip. Situated on the 64th floor, this sophisticated rooftop bar provides a chic and upscale atmosphere where you can socialize, enjoy the views, sip on handcrafted cocktails, and snack on delicious small bites. The bar opens at 5pm and admission is free!
Explore the Las Vegas Walk of Stars
The Las Vegas Walk of Stars is a tribute to some of the most influential and celebrated personalities in the entertainment industry modeled after the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Located at several locations along Las Vegas Boulevard, it features a series of stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring renowned entertainers, musicians, actors, and other notable individuals. Find the full list of stars and where they're located here.
Visit the Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame is home to the world's largest known collection of pinball machines. It's located on Las Vegas Blvd, just across the street from the iconic Las Vegas sign! It's free to enter and roam their extensive collection of vintage arcade games. And if you have a few coins on hand, you can easily play a few games on the cheap. They also have free parking too!
See free Circus Acts at Circus Circus
Circus Circus offers a daily free circus show to audiences of all ages. The shows take place in the Carnival Midway area inside the casino and offer entertaining and lively performances featuring a variety of circus acts, including acrobats, jugglers, aerialists, and more!
See the Las Vegas Gateway Arches
The south end of the Las Vegas Strip has the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, but the north end also has its own iconic attraction! The Las Vegas Gateway Arches stand at 80 feet tall and crisscross over Las Vegas Blvd featuring the Las Vegas script logo. In typical Vegas fashion, it's illuminated nightly thanks to over 13,000 glowing LED lights.
See the City of Las Vegas Showgirl Sign
Less than half a mile away from the Gateway Arches at the corner of South Las Vegas Blvd and Main Street lies another photogenic attraction, The Las Vegas Showgirl Sign. The sign features 50-foot showgirls dressed in old-school Vegas fashion, complete with iconic feather-topped headdresses, standing above the Las Vegas script logo. And of course, they illuminate at night!
Visit the CBS Television City at MGM Grand
CBS Television City at MGM Grand is a unique attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to be a part of the television production process. It is a state-of-the-art studio where guests can participate in free audience tapings of popular CBS shows and provide feedback on new TV show pilots. Visitors can watch the tapings, experience the behind-the-scenes action, and even have the chance to be a part of the show's live studio audience. It's a chance to get a glimpse into the world of television production and potentially be a part of the excitement of a television show being filmed.
See the Glow Show at Resorts World
Resorts World comes to life every hour with its Glow Show, a multimedia experience that displays simultaneously on the property's 100,000-square-foot exterior screens and the 50-foot interior globe. The free show features a variety of themes, from beautiful natural landscapes to funky space trips, and more!
Explore Fashion Show Mall
Fashion Show Mall is a premier shopping destination located on the Las Vegas Strip. With over 250 stores, it offers a wide range of high-end fashion brands, luxury retailers, and popular department stores. On weekends from noon to 5pm the mall features a free catwalk show called "The Runway", where models showcase the latest fashion trends on the world's only 80-foot retractable runway. Fashion Show Mall also provides various dining options, seasonal interactive art installments, entertainment experiences, and more, making it a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts and shoppers alike!
Visit the Grand Bazaar Shops
Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s features a unique hexagonal LED rooftop canopy that comes alive with a spectacular light and music show. The free show runs every 15 minutes nightly and illuminates the entire outdoor area of the shopping complex, creating a vibrant and captivating energetic experience for visitors.
Visit the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop
The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas is a famous landmark thanks to the popular reality TV show "Pawn Stars." Located on the far south end of The Strip, the pawn shop is known for its eclectic collection of unique items and antiques. Visitors can browse through a wide variety of merchandise, including jewelry, collectibles, artwork, and historical artifacts.
Enjoy the free pool at Top Golf
The Hideaway Pool is a free pool located on the 2nd level of Top Golf. It is open to anyone 21 or over and has no entry fee, so you can lounge and swim all day for free, plus enjoy their lovely swim-up bar!
Visit popular movie set locations
Las Vegas has been a popular filming location for many movies over the years. Here are some notable movie set locations in Las Vegas that you can visit for free:
The Bellagio: The Bellagio: The Bellagio Hotel and Casino is a frequent filming location in Las Vegas. It has been featured in movies such as "Ocean's Eleven" and its sequels, "The Hangover," and "21."
Caesars Palace: Caesars Palace is another iconic Las Vegas hotel that has appeared in several films, including "Rain Man," "The Hangover," and "Iron Man."
The Mirage: The Mirage Hotel and Casino is known for its volcano attraction, which has been featured in movies such as "Vegas Vacation" and "Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous."
Fremont Street: The historic downtown area of Las Vegas, particularly Fremont Street, has been featured in numerous films, including "Casino," "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas," and "The Hangover."
Las Vegas Strip: The famous Las Vegas Strip itself has been a backdrop for many movies, showcasing its iconic hotels, casinos, and neon lights. Films like "Diamonds Are Forever," "Swingers," and "Last Vegas" have utilized various locations along the Strip.
Free things to do and see in Downtown Las Vegas
Here are free things to do and see in Downtown Las Vegas!
Credit: @sonderquest
Walk the Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience is located on Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. There are lots of things to do here, from people-watching to free entertainment, and more...
See Fremont Street's Viva Vision light show
Watch a free nightly light show from 6pm to 2am on the Viva Vision: the world’s largest LED screen that lines the ceiling and runs the length of the Fremont Street Experience!
Watch street performers on Fremont Street
The Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas is renowned for its lively street performers. Talented artists and entertainers fill the pedestrian mall, showcasing their skills and captivating audiences with their performances. From musicians and dancers to magicians and living statues, the street performers at Fremont Street create a vibrant, fun, and engaging atmosphere!
Enjoy free live music on Fremont Street
Every night starting at 6pm you can enjoy free live music on any of the three stages. They also host a free concert series with a wide range of popular bands and artists like Flo Rida, Good Charlotte, All-American Rejects, Hoobastank, and more! See the Fremont Street Experience calendar of events here.
Visit the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District
The Downtown Arts District in Las Vegas is a vibrant and creative neighborhood that showcases the city's artistic spirit. Immerse yourself in the local art scene by exploring their numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural spaces.
See the Downtown Las Vegas murals
The Downtown Las Vegas area is adorned with captivating and vibrant murals that add a splash of color and artistic expression to the cityscape. These murals, created by local and international artists, showcase a wide range of styles and themes, from abstract designs to realistic portraits. Walking through the streets of Downtown, visitors can discover these impressive works of art sprinkled throughout the district.
Visit Antique Alley in Downtown Las Vegas
Antique Alley is the largest antique mall located in the heart of the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District. The 12,000+ square foot mall is open 7 days a week and features an eclectic mix of antique shops, vintage vendors, and more!
Credit: @neonbrand
Explore Downtown Container Park
Container Park is an open-air shopping and entertainment venue featuring 38 unique retail shops, restaurants, and bars located in Downtown Las Vegas. It's free to enter and explore the many businesses, plus the courtyard features life-sized games like chess and checkers on the turf, live entertainment, a playground for kids, and more. Also, don't forget to watch the praying mantis sculpture fire show out front!
Get a free slot play
Both Binion's and Four Queens are known to offer one free slot play per person at their giant slot machines as part of their promotional offers!
Enjoy the artworks at the Smith Center
The Smith Center is a renowned performing arts center in Downtown Las Vegas, offering a variety of world-class performances, including music, theater, and dance. Visitors are free to explore their 5-acre campus to admire their eye-catching outdoor art exhibits.
Attend the First Friday market
First Friday is a monthly arts and culture festival that takes place in the downtown area of Las Vegas. It features a vibrant market showcasing local artists, crafters, and vendors, offering a wide range of unique and handmade products. Visitors can explore art exhibits, enjoy live performances, indulge in food and drinks from local vendors, and immerse themselves in the creative atmosphere.
See the largest gold nugget in existence: The Hand Of Faith
The Hand of Faith is not only the biggest golden nugget in existence, but the second-biggest ever discovered, and the biggest ever found with a metal detector! You can view this natural splendor for free at the Golden Nugget Casino.
Kiss (or rub) a piece of the Blarney Stone
You can find a piece of Ireland's famous Blarney Stone on the second floor of The D Hotel and Casino to kiss or rub for good luck!
Take a photo with 1 Million dollars
Originally located at Binion's, visitors can see and take photos with a horseshoe-shaped display case filled with (100% real) 1 Million dollars.
See the world's largest Sportsbook at Circa
The Sportsbook at Circa is an expansive three-story facility covering over 3,000 square feet of space. It features a massive video wall measuring 78 million pixels and offers seating for up to 1,000 guests, making it the largest Sportsbook in the world!
See Vegas Vickie
Vegas Vickie is a famous neon sign cowgirl character in Las Vegas that was a prominent figure and iconic symbol of the city, often referred to as the "Queen of Fremont Street". Previously located on Fremont Street, you can now find her inside Circa Las Vegas.
See the Gold Bars display at the Legacy Club
The Gold Bars display at the Legacy Club in Circa Resort is a visually striking installation that showcases a collection of actual gold bars. See and take your picture with the real 500 pure gold bars on display!
Visit the oldest casino in Las Vegas
The Golden Gate Casino is a historic casino located on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas. It is the first hotel and the oldest operating casino in Las Vegas. The Golden Gate Casino is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the classic Vegas atmosphere and enjoy some gambling in a historic setting.
See a piece of the Berlin Wall
Located in the men’s bathroom at the Main Street Station Casino, lies a 10-foot wide, six-foot tall piece of the Berlin wall encased in glass. Although it is inside the men's restroom, ladies can view it as well by asking a security officer for an escort.
Free things to do and see off The Las Vegas Strip
While these free things to do and see may not be on The Strip or in Downtown, they are still just as fun, if not more so! (my ultimate faves are on this list) Here are some free things to do and see off The Las Vegas Strip!
Note: Some of these may require a bit of driving, so if you're just not a local you may want to get a rental car.
See the aquarium and a live mermaid show at the Silverton
The Silverton Hotel and Casino feature a stunning 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that houses thousands of exotic fish species and a variety of marine life, including stingrays and real-live mermaid performers! They even put on a mesmerizing Mermaid Show that's free for spectators to enjoy.
See the Seven Magic Mountains
One of my favorite free attractions in Las Vegas is the Seven Magic Mountains! The magic mountains are a free art installation just a 20-minute drive from the Las Vegas sign and feature 7 towers of colorfully painted stacked rocks displayed in the middle of the desert. It’s a great place to enjoy some beautiful desert art or for a fun photoshoot!
See the Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is a 726-foot iconic engineering marvel located on the border of Nevada and Arizona that spans the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, creating the vast Lake Mead reservoir. To visit the Hoover Dam for free, you can explore the outside areas, including the surrounding viewpoints and parking areas. You can take in the breathtaking views of the impressive concrete arch-gravity dam, marvel at its massive size, and capture memorable photos from various vantage points.
Walk the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
For a cool birds-eye view of the Hoover Dam, head over to the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge and walk along the pedestrian walkway. The bridge spans the Colorado River and connects both Nevada and Arizona state lines.
Visit Red Rock Canyon
Just 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip lies the beautiful Red Rock Canyon. While Red Rock Canyon does require an entrance fee to tour the Scenic Loop Drive, you can enter for free if you have a National Park pass, or you can choose to visit entry-free areas like Calico Basin and Red Rock Canyon Overlook instead.
Explore Area 15
AREA15 is the world's first purpose-built immersive entertainment and events complex located just minutes away from The Strip that offers live entertainment, immersive experiences, bars, retail shops, and more! Admission is free, however, most of the experiences inside have a fee, but it's still a fun space to explore regardless!
Take the Las Vegas Pioneer Trail
The Las Vegas Pioneer Trail is a self-guided historical tour that leads visitors through the area where the development of early Las Vegas truly began. It's like a fun, free little scavenger hunt for history buffs! See the Pioneer Trail brochure here, complete with a map and historical facts for each location.
Visit the Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum
The Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum is located inside the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport. It is a small, free museum dedicated to the history and development of aviation in Nevada and the surrounding region. The museum showcases various aircraft models, artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that highlight the rich aviation heritage of the area.
Visit the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art
The Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art is a free museum located on the main campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. It features a diverse collection of artwork from local, national, and international artists and showcases exhibitions that explore various themes and artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and new media.
See vintage cars at the Shelby Museum & Showroom
The Shelby Museum & Showroom is a must-visit destination for automotive enthusiasts! Located at the Shelby American headquarters, the free museum showcases a remarkable collection of vintage and modern Shelby cars. Visitors can admire legendary vehicles like the Shelby Cobra, Shelby Mustangs, and more while getting a glimpse into the legacy of Carroll Shelby and his contributions to the automotive industry.
Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a popular (and my favorite) local attraction in Henderson, just 18 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. The factory offers free self-guided tours where visitors receive a free chocolate sample and can observe the chocolate-making process while learning about the history of Ethel M Chocolates. Additionally, the factory is surrounded by a stunning botanical cactus garden, which you can walk through for free as you admire over 300 beautiful species of desert plants.
Visit the Acacia Demonstration Gardens
The Acacia Demonstration Gardens is a unique botanical garden located in Las Vegas. It showcases a variety of desert-adapted plants, particularly acacia trees, and serves as an educational resource for visitors to learn about sustainable landscaping and water conservation in the desert environment. The free gardens feature different themed areas, including a cactus garden, a native plant garden, and a demonstration area showcasing various irrigation techniques.
Visit the Las Vegas Springs Preserve
The Las Vegas Springs Preserve is a 180-acre free Las Vegas attraction that features botanical gardens, museums, events, exhibits, trails, and more! Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits, learn about desert wildlife and ecosystems, enjoy scenic landscapes, and even take part in educational programs and workshops.
Visit Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston is a stunning mountain located about 1 hour outside of Las Vegas. With an elevation of over 11,900 feet, it provides breathtaking panoramic views and a cooler climate, which can be a refreshing escape from the desert heat. The mountain is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, and even skiing in the winter months. There is no entry fee and it is free to park at all the trailheads in the area and to visit the Spring Mountains Visitor Center.
Take a free tour of Count’s Kustoms
Count's Kustoms is a showroom & workshop filled with customized sports cars, vintage hot rods, RVs & chopper bikes, made popular by the reality TV show Counting Cars. Visitors can take a free tour or explore the museum at Count’s Kustoms.
See Sunset Stampede at Sam’s Town
Sunset Stampede at Sam's Town is a captivating and free laser light show featuring animatronic animals and a beautiful waterfall display. Visitors can witness the stunning visual effects and enjoy synchronized music and storytelling. It's a popular attraction that takes place in Mystic Falls Park within Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall.
Play free games in the Backyard at Gold Spike
Gold Spike in Downtown Las Vegas is a vibrant entertainment venue known for its unique blend of gaming, nightlife, live music performances, and socializing. With its bars, outdoor space (aka the Backyard), and games like giant Jenga and cornhole, it's a popular destination for locals and tourists looking for a fun and casual experience in the heart of downtown. It is free to enter for anyone 21 and over, however, during nightlife operations on Fridays and Saturdays, there is a cover charge.
See Bonnie & Clyde’s Death Car Exhibit at Primm Valley Resort
The Bonnie & Clyde's Death Car Exhibit at Primm Valley Resort (located just 20 minutes from Seven Magic Mountains) is a fascinating display that showcases the infamous car in which the notorious outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow met their demise. The free 24-hour exhibit provides a glimpse into the history and notoriety of these legendary criminals, featuring the actual bullet-riddled car as a centerpiece.
Visit the City Hall Art Galleries
The art galleries in Las Vegas City Hall offer a diverse range of artistic expressions that are free for the public to visit. These galleries showcase works from local and regional artists, providing a platform for creative exploration and community engagement. Visitors can admire a variety of art mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed-media installations.
See the largest cannabis dispensary in the world
Planet 13 is a cannabis dispensary and entertainment complex in Las Vegas. It is one of the largest cannabis dispensaries in the world and offers the best selection of cannabis products and an immersive entertainment complex that houses a variety of interactive exhibits, a 3D projection mapping display, a cannabis-themed café, a customer lounge, and more! It's free to enter and guests must be 21 or older.
Visit the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, one of the greatest records of Ice Age fossils in the entire world, is a 22,650-acre of protected land located in the Las Vegas Valley. It preserves a significant paleontological site and is known for its fossils of ancient plants, animals, and invertebrates dating back from the Ice Age. Visitors can enter for free to see the fossils, hike the trails, enjoy the scenery, and check out the site of the "Big Dig".
Explore Wetlands Park
Wetlands Park is a 2,900-acre protected nature preserve in Las Vegas. It offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can explore a diverse range of wetland habitats, hike the trails, go bird watching, wildlife spotting, and enjoy educational exhibits and programs.
Visit Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas is a stunning 320-acre man-made lake located just 30 minutes from The Strip. The lake offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city where you can explore the quaint, Italian-style village that offers a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can do some window shopping, walk the waterfront area, enjoy live musical entertainment, attend a farmer's market, and more.
Go bird watching at Henderson Bird Preserve
The Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve is a popular destination for birdwatchers. It is located about 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. The preserve offers a peaceful and natural environment where visitors can observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Check out The Wheel of Misfortune art installation
Just 5 minutes from Lake Las Vegas lies a hidden piece of artwork located just off Lake Mead Parkway called The Wheel of Misfortune, which features a massive, 250 feet wide Wheel of Fortune-inspired wheel with slots reading unfortunate prizes like Bank Owned, Lose a Home, Lose a Job, Lose All Hope, and 000. As mentioned earlier, it is hidden but you can search for "Three Kids Mine" on Google maps to find it. Also, just a warning, the area is littered with trash so make sure you wear appropriate shoes before exploring.
Hike an overlook trail for a cool view of the Las Vegas Strip
Exploration Peak Trail, Lone Mountain Loop Trail, Armagosa Trail A, Gass Peak Trail, Frenchman Mountain Trail, and Black Mountain Trail all offer some amazing views of the Las Vegas Valley below!
Visit the Nellis Sand Dunes
The Nellis Sand Dunes, also known as the Las Vegas Dunes, is a vast expanse of sand dunes located northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada. They are a popular destination for outdoor and off-road enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as sandboarding, sand dune hiking, ATVing, and off-road vehicle riding.
Hike the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail
The Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail, also known as the Hoover Dam Railroad Trail, is a scenic hiking trail located near the Hoover Dam in Boulder City. The trail follows the path of the historic railroad that was used during the construction of the dam in the 1930s and offers stunning views of Lake Mead, the surrounding mountains, and the iconic Hoover Dam.
Drive the Extraterrestrial Highway and see Area 51
The Extraterrestrial Highway (aka Nevada State Route 375) is a road that stretches through the Nevada desert and is famous for its association with Area 51, a top-secret, restricted military facility. The highway has become a site for UFO enthusiasts and those intrigued by the mysteries of extraterrestrial life. Along the route, you can find alien-themed attractions, including the Alien Research Center and the Little A'Le'Inn, as well as various viewpoints for observing the vast desert landscape.
Note: Tikaboo Peak is the closest you can legally get to Area 51
Take a dip in a hot spring
There are several hot springs located near Las Vegas that offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. One popular option is the Goldstrike Hot Springs, located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This natural hot spring features cascading hot pools and requires a challenging hike to access. Another option is the Arizona Hot Springs, located across the state border in the Lake Mead area. These hot springs can be reached by hiking through a beautiful slot canyon. Both of these hot springs provide a unique opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of natural hot water in a picturesque desert setting.
Warning: Due to the extreme desert heat and water temperatures, do NOT visit in the summer!
Drive the Joshua Tree Highway
Las Vegas has its own version of Joshua Tree California! Just 45 minutes from Seven Magic Mountains and 1 hour from The Strip lies a stretch of highway filled with Joshua Trees! It’s a fun drive to make if you have the time and want to experience the open desert road.
Who knew there were so many free things to do in Las Vegas? Not only can you go to Vegas without gambling, but you don't need to have money to have fun in Sin City. I hope this list of free things to do in Vegas helped you plan your budget-friendly Las Vegas trip! Now put that wallet away and go make some priceless memories!
