Things Not to Miss in Vegas: Must Dos for Easy Trip Planning

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When planning a trip to sin city, one of the most common questions is what you should not miss in Vegas.

There is literally something for everyone in Las Vegas; it’s hard to narrow down a few main attractions and places to visit because of individual taste, interests and travel style.

That being said, there are a few attractions and experiences that everyone should take in to really soak up the essence of Vegas.

Below you’ll find my staple recommendations for everyone (no matter what type of traveler) to experience the best places to visit in and around Las Vegas for a vacation that feels like you got a taste of everything. 

If it’s your first trip to Vegas, the general rule of thumb is to not plan too much.

There’s something to see and do around every corner and you likely won’t fit it all in on your first trip.

Choose a few things from this list that interests you and then build the rest of your itinerary as you go. 

View the entire post about tips and tricks for Las Vegas first timers.

In my opinion, the perfect Vegas vacation includes time roaming through the casinos along the strip, an afternoon (or two) by the pool, some time on Fremont Street, see a show or two, do a couple of activities off the strip and visit some fun lounges and restaurants.

You won’t be able to do everything on this list in one trip, but choose what interests you and have a blast! 

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Things Not to Miss in Vegas Along the Strip

Catch all the Free Hotel Attractions

The best activity to do in Las Vegas is walk along the Strip, admiring the massive hotel resorts and experiencing how enormous these buildings are.

Strolling in and out of the hotels and casinos along the strip is super fun; this might seem obvious, but this is the most Vegas touristy thing to do and you will never be bored. Especially if it’s your first time.

Don’t forget that you get free drinks when you gamble, even playing the penny slots!

Besides each hotel and casino being uniquely themed, most of them have a free attraction.

The Bellagio Conservatory is stunningly beautiful – an indoor garden that changes with the seasons a few times per year (come here for amazing photos).

At night, the Bellagio Fountains are mesmerizing (get close enough so you can hear the music).

The exploding volcano outside of the Mirage is also fun to swing by.

Caesar’s Palace has gorgeous Roman replica fountains. 

Travel tip – avoid getting overwhelmed and book a 3 hour walking tour to explore the best spots along the Strip where your guide will ensure you don’t miss any of the hot spots that are often missed by many tourists.

I recommend booking the tour for your first day so that you have the lay of the land for the rest of your trip.

Book the highest rated tour on Viator to secure your spot. 

At the south end of the strip you will find the iconic ‘Welcome to Las Vegas sign.’

It’s definitely worth a stop for a photo, but try to get there early to avoid the lineup, or take a photo off the to side if you don’t want to wait (the crowds thin out after midnight, too).

The Linq Promenade and High Roller

The Linq Promenade is a fun little area across from Caesars Palace full of shops, restaurants, bars and fantastic photo spots.

It’s also home to the High Roller Observation Wheel, which is one of the best views in all of Las Vegas.

If you drink, I highly recommend the happy half hour where your pod comes with a bartender serving unlimited drinks!

Buy your tickets in advance to choose the best time with no waiting in line!

Inside tip – grab the frozen Baileys drink at O’Sheas in the Linq Promenade. 

See the Vegas Strip from Above

Seeing the sparkling glitter and glam of the Las Vegas strip at night from above is a must do activity. 

Grab a drink at a lounge high above the Strip – I am loving the views from the Foundation Room lounge in the Mandalay Bay. 

The Skypod Observation Deck at the Strat Hotel gives you 360 degree views of the entire city for about 20 bucks!

Helicopter ride above the Strip. 

There’s truly no better way to see the shimmering lights of Las Vegas than a nighttime helicopter flight. Book your tour online (this one includes a glass of champagne) through Viator. 

Fremont Street Experience and the Zip Line

Fremont Street is ‘old Las Vegas’ (the original Strip) and is free to walk around, check out the neon signs, watch the street performers and buskers, listen to live music and experience general debauchery (the people watching is fantastic).

All for free!

The Slotzilla zip line that soars you above the crowds and the lights of Fremont is an unforgettable experience.

Note that Fremont isn’t technically part of the Las Vegas Strip, but is considered downtown at the north end – you’ll have to take the bus/Uber/Lyft or drive by car to get there. 

Inside tip – while you’re on Fremont, grab prime rib dinner for $12.99 at Siegel’s in El Cortez.

Before your trip, I recommend reading up on the biggest scams in Las Vegas to avoid getting ripped off.

See a Top Rated Show

You can’t miss seeing a show in Vegas, but how do you choose what to see? 

Best overall (for adults only) – Absinthe Show

A spicy, vintage cabaret style show and is absolutely the highest rated. It’s raunchy and hilarious but highly immersive entertainment.

Absinthe plays at Caesars Palace.

See available dates and book your tickets online from Vegas.com. 

Best Comedy Show – Carrot Top

There’s a reason his show has high ratings. Top notch comedy and he puts a lot of effort to ensuring it’s highly entertaining. 

Check Carrot Top dates and book your tickets in advance.

Best Magic Shows 

You can’t go wrong with Penn & Teller for mind-blowing magic but with comedic value.

If you want classic mind-blowing magic, David Copperfield always delivers. 

Best Family Friendly Shows

The Blue Man Group or Tournament of Kings for a medieval dinner theatre. 

Not interested in a show?

I recommend hitting the piano bars as an alternative! The dueling pianos at New York New York is the best, the Twins at Harrah’s Piano Bar is the next solid choice. 

Things Not to Miss off the Strip

On every trip to Vegas I always recommend taking a break from the casinos and visiting some best attractions off the strip or outside of the city.

Try to make time for at least two activities below. 

Scenic Landscapes

For fresh air and scenery, hit the trails! Choose Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire (if you have more time) for gorgeous road trips, hiking and scenic view points among the painted rocks and sandstone formations.

You can also book a half-day tour to Red Rock Canyon and not have to worry about driving yourself or finding the best viewpoints within the park. 

Mt. Charleston is also only 30 miles from Las Vegas where you’ll find over 60 miles of hiking trails above the city.

You’ll need to rent a car to visit, as public transport won’t take you there. 

Museums and Quirky Attractions

The Pinball Hall of Fame has the largest collection of pinball machines including all your vintage and retro favorites.

Admission is free and all games range from a quarter to a dollar to play. 

The Neon Museum is one of the coolest Las Vegas attractions off the strip. Your tour takes you through a massive display of all the old and retired neon signs while learning about the history of Vegas at the same time.

Area 15 is one of the newest attractions and is worth the hype. It’s a giant warehouse engineered to make you feel like you’re walking into a psychedelic virtual reality world.

General admission is free to walk around, while you can pay to experience to more interactive exhibits.

I recommend Omega Mart – experience grocery shopping from within another dimension through optical illusions, portals and more.

The Mob Museum offers a fascinating history lesson and glimpse into the glory days of old Vegas.

Do not miss the speakeasy bar in the basement to round out your experience.

The cocktail presentation is worth the price alone – try an Old Fashioned served hidden in a book, or the bathtub gin. 

Inside tip – plan to visit the Mob Museum on the same day you plan to visit Fremont Street and/or Container Park. 

>> Read Next: Vegas on a Budget – Where to Eat, Stay and Play and Spend Less

Must Visit Restaurants, Bars and Lounges 

The Fireside Lounge in the Peppermill feels like you travel back in time to the 60s – enjoy the neon lights, great cocktails and large portions. 

Oak & Ivy is a must for any whiskey drinker.

The east side of Fremont Street (around El Cortez) has a lot of cool little divey bars and live music – Backstage Bar and Billiards and Atomic Liquors are noteworthy with cool vibes. 

Make reservations at Blackout for dining in the dark (yes entirely pitch black) if you’re looking for more of an experience with dinner. 

Mayfair Supper Club if you can splurge – it’s top notch dinner theatre entertainment exactly what you would expect from old Vegas and Rat Pack days with the best views of the Bellagio Fountains. 

The Golden Tiki is a themed restaurant with something always going on. The drinks are on point, the atmosphere is always fun and they even have Dole Whip. 

For a solid steakhouse, head to Hugo’s Cellar on Fremont for classic Vegas ambience. Classy, upscale with old-school Vegas vibes – a true hidden gem. 

Secret Pizza – head to the Cosmopolitan to find it. 

Mon Ami Gabi is where you want to dine for an ultra romantic meal, or even a classy experience with the girls. Reservations are a must, and try to get a seat on the outdoor Patio.

Want more Vegas? Read my ultimate list of 36 Better Thins to Do in Vegas Besides Gamble

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