Things to do in Las Vegas beyond the obvious (2026)
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Fun facts, when to go, itinerary ideas, and things to do in Las Vegas beyond the obvious, day and night, on and off the Strip!
Vegas is a much more versatile destination than most people imagine. I’ve been here four times, at different stages of my life. On my first and second trips (in 2010 and 2011), when I was a “party girl,” I did the obvious: danced a lot at famous nightclubs like Tao and XS, walked along the Strip—whose official name is Las Vegas Boulevard—admiring the hotels and their décor, and of course, gambled a few bucks at the casinos. On my third trip (2012), I went to daytime parties at beach clubs and even rented a car to visit the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. But on this trip, which took place in July 2026, the focus was on putting together a Vegas beyond the obvious itinerary, and that is the purpose of this guide.
From museums and spas to immersive tours and day trips to marvel at the region’s incredible landscapes, you’ll discover things to do in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas during the day and at night, to escape the intense desert heat, on and off the Strip. At the end of the article, I’ve included suggested Las Vegas itineraries of up to 7 days to make your life easier. Ready to get started?
In this post, you’ll find:
Disclaimer: This trip was taken at the invitation of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. I would like to assure you that all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and genuinely reflect my personal experience.
A little about the city’s history
First of all, let’s learn a little about the history of Las Vegas:
- Have you ever wondered what Vegas was like before the casinos and luxury hotels? The region was home to prehistoric animals, underwent various geological changes, and was inhabited by Indigenous peoples. Today, three Indigenous tribes in southern Nevada are federally recognized: the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe, the Moapa Band of Paiutes, and the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe.
- Why is Las Vegas called Las Vegas? Well, there was a time when the area where the city is located was a green landscape with natural springs in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Because of these characteristics, Mexican explorer Rafael Rivera, who passed through the area in 1830, named it “Las Vegas,” which means “The Meadows” in English.
- Between 1855 and 1857, Mormon missionaries attempted to evangelize Native Americans in the region, which was a strategic point between Mormon settlements in Utah and California.
- Las Vegas was officially founded on May 15, 1905, driven by the arrival of the railroad connecting Los Angeles (California) to Salt Lake City (Utah).
- In addition to the railroad, another event that played an important role in the city’s urban development took place between 1930 and 1936: the construction of Hoover Dam. This hydroelectric power plant, located 37 miles (60 km) from Las Vegas, attracted thousands of workers to the region.
- Gambling arrived in Las Vegas with the legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1931
- The first casino hotels opened between 1941 and 1942, quickly transforming the city into the leading entertainment destination in the United States.
- In 1951, the first atomic bomb was detonated at the Nevada Test Site, about 65 miles (105 km) from Las Vegas. The explosions became a tourist attraction and even inspired themed parties in the city.
- The population of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Area grew from around 25 people in 1900 to approximately 2.25 million in 2025.
Fox’s Tip
- To learn more about the city’s past, it’s worth including attractions such as Springs Preserve, the Nevada State Museum, and even the Neon Museum in your Las Vegas itinerary. All of them are detailed in this article.
Fun facts about Las Vegas, Nevada
- The famous “Las Vegas Strip” does not belong exclusively to Las Vegas. Most of it is located in the communities of Paradise and Winchester, which are administered by Clark County.
- Las Vegas, Nevada, is not the only city with this name in the United States. There is another one in the state of New Mexico, founded in 1835.
- Las Vegas became the Wedding Capital of the World thanks to a combination of simple laws and plenty of marketing. Starting in the 1930s, Nevada began allowing marriage licenses to be issued quickly, without the bureaucracy common in other places. As a result, themed chapels emerged, offering ceremonies ranging from the simplest to the most extravagant.
- Why is Vegas known as “Sin City”? The nickname “Sin City” originated in the early 20th century, when the region was known for its concentration of gambling, alcohol consumption, prostitution, and other activities considered “sinful” by the standards of the time. With the legalization of casinos and the reputation that “you can do anything in Vegas,” the nickname eventually became part of the city’s tourist identity.
- The city is so brightly lit that, at night, it can be identified from space.
Photo: NASA, taken from Sky At Night Magazine
Where is Las Vegas
Las Vegas is located in the state of Nevada, in the southwestern United States, in the heart of the Mojave Desert. The city is close to the borders with California, Arizona, and Utah.
How far is Las Vegas Strip from:
See where Las Vegas is located on a customized map, with the attractions we recommend for you:
How to get to Las Vegas, NV
The easiest way to get to Las Vegas is to fly to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), which has direct flights from over 170 destinations, including international destinations such as Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, London, and Seoul.
Want to find the cheap flights to Las Vegas, NV? Skyscanner can help you with that!
How to get around Las Vegas
The best options depend on your itinerary and where you’re staying. Many people end up renting a car at the airport, but it’s important to keep in mind that many hotels charge an additional parking fee per night. If you plan to spend most of your time on the Strip, ride-hailing apps (Uber and Lyft) are very convenient. However, on show nights and during heavy traffic, prices can rise considerably due to demand. Lyft is usually more affordable, so it’s worth downloading the app.
The Monorail offers fares starting at USD 5.50* (online). Check the map above to see where this public transportation system runs.
When to visit Las Vegas
My trip took place in the summer, but the best time to visit Las Vegas is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are more pleasant. The desert climate keeps the air dry for most of the year, but temperatures vary considerably. Summers are very hot, with average highs ranging from 102.2°F (39°C) to 109.4°F (43°C). In winter, the average temperature is 59°F (15°C). Las Vegas gets little rain, with about 26 rainy days per year. Rainfall is usually brief, irregular, and light.
Important! If you visit the region during the summer and plan outdoor activities, make sure to stay well hydrated! The intense heat can pose serious risks, even during short activities.
Things to do on the Las Vegas Strip beyond the obvious
During the day, first-time visitors usually walk along the Strip to explore the themed hotels, visit attractions such as the Bellagio Conservatory and Sphere, or enjoy pools and beach clubs (open during the summer). At night, casinos and nightclubs are what made the destination famous. But today, there are many more options. Here are our tips on things to do on the Strip in Las Vegas beyond the obvious:
Awana Spa
Las Vegas is so surprising that it even has places for those who want to relax between one activity and another. Awana Spa is located at Resorts World, the hotel where we stayed, and is considered one of the most sophisticated spas in Las Vegas. The space combines massages, facial and body treatments with a hydrotherapy circuit that includes heated pools, saunas, steam rooms, and the exclusive Fountain of Youth.
“This was my first time at a luxury spa, and I can say I already want to do it again! On stressful days or tough times, this is an investment that’s worth it. The experience is all about you. No phones for filming—in fact, they’re not allowed. For two hours, I put my problems aside, meditated in the sauna, and even had fun working up the courage to get in and out of water at different temperatures. Good for the body and the soul.”
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
- Prices*: This is a luxury experience in Vegas. Prices range from USD 120 to USD 150 per person. A 60-minute massage starts at USD 150 and can cost up to USD 300.
Sustainability
- The spa’s efforts to minimize the use of single-use plastics stand out. Amenities such as shower caps, hairbrushes, and toothbrushes are made from wheat and cornstarch. Pretty cool, right?!
FlyOver
This modern “flying theater” gives you the sensation of soaring over some of the Earth’s most spectacular landscapes on the planet without leaving Las Vegas. Visitors stand on a suspended platform whose movements are synchronized with the show, in front of a gigantic spherical screen more than 52 feet (about 15 meters) tall. Wind effects, scents, and a soundtrack make the experience feel realistic, in an attraction that lasts about 30 minutes in total. We watched “Believe Chicago” and “Legendary Iceland.” I enjoyed the Chicago experience more because it tells people’s stories and incorporates music. Matthew, on the other hand, preferred the enchanting landscapes of Iceland.
Prices*: Tickets starting at USD 32.
Things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip
Find things to do in Las Vegas during the day, off the Strip, and beyond the obvious:
Springs Preserve
The approximately 73-hectare complex brings together botanical gardens, interactive museums, and areas dedicated to the flora and fauna of the Mojave Desert. My tip is to start with the film “Miracle in the Mojave” at the Origin Museum. It is fascinating and tells the story of the prehistoric animals that once lived here, the geology of the area, how the springs were formed, and how water was the reason Las Vegas was created.
“On the one hand, Springs Preserve is a great place to learn about the animals and Indigenous peoples who inhabited the region. On the other hand, I felt uncomfortable seeing some animals in captivity, with no information explaining why they are there or whether there is any intention to rehabilitate and reintroduce them into the wild. Another contradiction is an area called the Sustainability Gallery, where visitors are encouraged to bring shells and other items to exchange, with the aim of promoting curiosity about nature. However, removing items from nature is not a sustainable practice at all, as it disrupts the local ecosystem*. I hope they reconsider this initiative.”*
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
- Prices*: Children (ages 3 to 17) USD 10.95; Adults USD 18.95; 65+ years old USD 17.95.
Fox’s tip
- It’s worth familiarizing yourself with the site map and downloading the app to make the most of your time during your visit.
Nevada State Museum
The Nevada State Museum is located within the Springs Preserve complex and features exhibits on the formation of Nevada’s geology, impressive fossils of prehistoric animals that once lived in the region, the area’s Indigenous peoples, the construction of Hoover Dam, Las Vegas’s rapid growth, and much more.
“For me, this is a must-visit to learn a little about the history of Las Vegas. There is a section that talks about the racial segregation that took place in the 1950s and how the Moulin Rouge hotel-casino and Black leaders such as Dr. James McMillan played an important role in changing this situation.”
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
Prices*: Included in the Springs Preserve admission fee.
Atomic Museum
The Atomic Museum tells the story of the nuclear tests conducted in the Nevada Desert between 1951 and 1992. In total, there were 928 tests. The context of the Cold War can be seen and understood through photographs, original equipment, and historical videos. If you’re wondering what to do in Las Vegas with teenagers, this is a great option because it features interactive exhibits related to chemistry and physics, making it easier for students to understand the subjects they’re learning in school. Since nothing is perfect 😅, I felt uncomfortable by the fact that they try to convey the message that the purpose of atomic bombs is to ensure peace within their own territory. To me, bombs and peace are opposites!
- Prices*: Adults USD 29; 65+ years old USD 24; children ages 7 to 17 USD 15.
Family friendly things to do in Las Vegas
All generations can have fun here! Check out our suggestions for family friendly things to do in Las Vegas:
Grand Prix Plaza
Formula 1® and Ayrton Senna fans shouldn’t miss this place! The Grand Prix Plaza complex is located next to the official pit building of the Las Vegas Grand Prix and features interactive exhibits, state-of-the-art simulators, as well as a go-kart track. The F1® X experience features a collection of historic cars, trophies, and drivers’ memorabilia, offering an immersive look into the technology behind the world’s premier motorsport category. It’s a great tip for things to do in Las Vegas with the family.
“I simply loved this place and already want to come back with my whole family. The world of Formula 1® is fascinating, and as a Brazilian, seeing some of the cars Senna raced in was incredible!”
Prices*: F1® X Experience USD 59; go-karting USD 37; simulator USD 38. For those who want to do multiple activities, it’s worth checking out the special discounted packages on their website.
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart
Don’t know what to do in Vegas with kids? Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart combines contemporary art, technology, and interactivity inside the AREA15 complex. It starts out as a seemingly ordinary supermarket, but all it takes is opening a refrigerator door or walking down an aisle to discover a surreal universe filled with art installations, visual effects, and unusual settings.
“I think this attraction is unnecessary for adults, but I saw kids who looked like they were between 10 and 13 years old having a lot of fun.”
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
- Prices*: General admission starts at USD 45 for adults, with flexible options and VIP packages that include extra benefits. Children pay reduced rates, and children under 3 years old receive free admission.
Things to do near Las Vegas
There are several outdoor activities near Vegas, such as Grand Canyon, Zion, and Death Valley National Parks, as well as attractions like Seven Magic Mountains, Hoover Dam, Mount Charleston, and Red Rock Canyon. On this trip, we had the chance to visit Valley of Fire State Park and go kayaking on Lake Mead.
Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest state park and is located about 50 miles (80 km) from the Strip. The park features massive red sandstone formations that make you feel like you’re on another planet. It’s no wonder it has served as a filming location for movies such as Star Trek: Generations. We toured Valley of Fire with Pink Jeep Tours, which comfortably allowed us to visit attractions such as Elephant Rock and Atlatl Rock. The petroglyphs scattered throughout the park are well preserved and absolutely incredible! Our guide, Mark, was essential to our experience.
- Prices*: With Pink Jeep Tours, the tour, including transportation from Las Vegas and a snack, costs USD 184 per person. For those visiting on their own, the park charges USD 15 per vehicle.
- Attention: Due to the extreme heat, some trails are closed during the summer.
“I recommend taking the tour with a guide. This way, you can learn more about the Indigenous peoples who passed through this area, and the guide can take you to specific spots that are quite difficult to find when exploring on your own.”
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
Kayaking tour to Emerald Cave
This tour was certainly one of the highlights of our trip! The adventure takes place at Lake Mead, an artificial lake that is the largest reservoir in the United States by volume. Our tour was organized by Evolution Expedition, which provided transportation from Vegas, the guided kayaking tour, and a delicious snack. We paddled along the calm waters of the Colorado River, surrounded by the towering walls of Black Canyon, until we reached the small Emerald Cave, whose waters are crystal clear and have a beautiful emerald-green hue.
- Prices*: USD 199.99 per person, including transportation and a snack.
Sustainability
- Our guide, Calvin, emphasized the importance of using water responsibly. He told us that Lake Mead is currently at only 30% of its natural capacity and that the last time the lake was full was in 1983. Calvin also gave us a frightening prediction: if we don’t conserve water, this paradise could be dry by 2055.
Additional options
Shopping in Las Vegas
Vegas is also a great shopping destination. For those looking for discounts, it’s worth checking out Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, with more than 175 brand-name stores, and Las Vegas South Premium Outlets. Among the malls, Fashion Show is one of the largest, with more than 250 stores. For a different shopping experience, the highlights are the themed shopping centers: Grand Canal Shoppes (inside The Venetian) and Miracle Mile Shops (at Planet Hollywood). All of these places feature some of the world’s most famous brands. And as always, you can count on department stores like Ross Dress for Less and TJ Maxx.
Stadiums in Las Vegas
Las Vegas’ major stadiums and sports arenas have helped transform the city into one of the leading sports destinations in the United States. The two main venues are Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena. Allegiant, home of the Raiders, an NFL team, hosted the Super Bowl in 2024 and will host it again in 2029. You can take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium, starting at USD 72* per person. T-Mobile Arena, meanwhile, is one of the main venues for UFC events, as well as the home of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, and also hosts international concerts. The latest development on the sports scene is that Las Vegas wants to bring an NBA franchise to the city. If all goes according to plan, a new team could debut in the 2028/29 season.
Things to do in Las Vegas at night
When the sun goes down, the city reveals its most iconic side. A spectacle of lights, shows, casinos, bars, restaurants, and attractions that stay open well into the early hours. Discover what to do in Vegas at night:
The Neon Museum
I loved this place because the signs end up telling the story of Vegas. It was there that we discovered that the Stardust Hotel, where Matthew’s parents stayed in the 1970s and 1980s, once stood on the very site where we stayed, which is now Resorts World. This “neon graveyard” preserves more than three hundred signs, including those from former hotels, casinos, and stores. The oldest one still in operation is the “The Chief Hotel Court” sign, from 1940.
- Prices*: USD 35 for adults; 7 to 17 years old pay USD 17.50; 65+ years old USD 30.
Fox’s tip
- Although the museum can be visited during the day, the illuminated signs are more interesting at night. It is also an alternative for avoiding the extreme heat, especially in the summer.
Cirque du Soleil
For those who can’t go without a more classic Vegas attraction, there’s always a Cirque du Soleil show waiting for you! In 2012, I got to see “The Beatles LOVE,” which is no longer running. This time, I had the chance to see “O,” which has been running in Vegas since 1998 and is quite different from the others, as it features a pool, water, acrobatics, and fire—absolutely beautiful! They also currently have “Michael Jackson ONE” at Mandalay Bay.
Prices*: Tickets for “O” start at USD 125, depending on the seat location and date.
What I’ve done in Vegas on previous trips and would do again
- Grand Canyon: Considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world, this American national park has millions of years of history carved by nature.
- Hoover Dam: But I would do it by kayak.
- Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign: You need to go very early in the morning or late at night to avoid a huge line for photos.
The nerdy fox says! The famous Las Vegas sign was designed by a woman, Betty Willis.
What I didn’t do in Vegas but added to my list
- Fremont Street: Long before the Strip, the fun was already happening here. The nostalgia of old casinos blends with shows, bars, and even zip lines.
- MOB Museum: This museum tells the story of the origins of the American Mafia. There is also a speakeasy bar on site.
- AREA15: Although Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart is located here, I wish I had had more time to explore the other attractions.
- Arts District: This neighborhood reveals a different side of Las Vegas, with studios, street art, galleries, and creative spaces.
- Metallica show at Sphere: An immersive experience combining monumental visual effects, ultra-precise audio, and a different setlist each week. As a fan of the band, I really want to go (not sure I can afford though lol)!
- Formula 1 race: I can only imagine the excitement of watching the Las Vegas Grand Prix up close.
- Seven Magic Mountains: An art installation featuring seven towers of colorful stacked rocks.
Where to stay in Las Vegas
Choosing the right place to stay is essential to making your trip to Las Vegas wonderful. Consider the hotel’s location, how easy it is to get to the attractions included in your itinerary, and, of course, the reviews left by other guests.
Fox’s tip
- Be careful when opening the minibar and removing or moving any item from the shelf. Most hotels in Vegas have an automatic charging system. In other words, simply moving a can may result in it being charged to your room.
Conrad at Resorts World
My husband and I stayed at the Conrad at Resorts World for six nights. What makes this hotel so wonderful? A casino, a fitness center, an absolutely incredible spa, swimming pools, and top-notch restaurants! The hotel is located at the northern end of the Strip, near the Las Vegas Convention Center. The complex is made up of three towers: Conrad, Crockfords, and Hilton.
“I loved tasting Italian wines at Allē Lounge on 66 during sunset while enjoying the view of the Las Vegas Strip. But the icing on the cake here was the Awana Spa. It was everything I needed and didn’t know it.”
Elaine Villatoro – Founder of Live More, Travel More
Responsible Accommodation
- Resorts World is one of the region’s leaders when it comes to sustainability. During its construction, 80% of the waste and debris from an abandoned development was diverted from landfills, which helped it earn LEED Gold Certification. In addition to using 100% renewable energy and reducing energy and water consumption by more than 30% compared to industry standards, food waste is repurposed and turned into feed for farm animals.
Other places to stay in Vegas
Check out more hotel options in Las Vegas below:
Conscious tourism in Vegas
The importance of conserving water in the region
Water conservation is a serious matter here! To give you an idea, Lake Mead, the reservoir that supplies 90% of the city’s water, dropped to just 31% of its capacity in 2025. To minimize water consumption, even as the population continues to grow, the city has implemented a series of initiatives ranging from banning lawns and the construction of new golf courses to limiting the size of swimming pools. That’s why, as travelers, we need to be mindful of our water use when showering and prioritize accommodations with good sustainability practices.
What NOT to do in Las Vegas and the surrounding area
Las Vegas itineraries
To make your life easier, I’ve suggested daily itineraries for a trip to Las Vegas of up to seven days. You can change the order according to your preferences:
What to do in Las Vegas in 3 days?
- Day 1: Walk along the Strip; Nevada State Museum & Springs Preserve; dinner at Ai Pazzi; Neon Museum.
- Day 2: Breakfast or brunch at Giada; Grand Prix Plaza; dinner at Braseria; Bellagio Hotel Fountains; Cirque du Soleil.
- Day 3: Hoover Dam + Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam + Kayaking Tour to Emerald Cave (Lake Mead); Dinner at Diner Ross.
What to do in Las Vegas in 5 days?
In addition to the attractions mentioned above, include:
- Day 4: Valley of Fire; National Atomic Museum.
- Day 5: Breakfast or brunch at Hash House a Go Go; shopping; Arts District; The Mob Museum; Bar Boheme.
What to do in Las Vegas in 7 days?
Add the daily itineraries below:
- Day 6: Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart; Awana Spa (Resorts World); Wine tasting during sunset at Allē Lounge on 66 (Resorts World); dinner at Kusa Nori (Resorts World)
- Day 7: Seven Magic Mountains; FlyOver; Walk along Fremont Street; See the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign
Travel to Las Vegas through our Instagram
Our entire trip was documented on Instagram, come check it out!
Extra tips
FAQ
WHAT TO DO IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
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Disclaimer:
* All prices mentioned in this article were collected in September 2026 and may be subject to additional taxes and change at any time.
** All uncredited images in this article were taken by Elaine Villatoro.
