Oh Vegas! Party mecca and adult playground. If you’re not into taking risks with your money, there’s an abundance of things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling!
While the famous piece of the Las Vegas Boulevard is the city’s biggest attraction, you don’t need to gamble, go to shows or even drink your face off to have a good time (although you definitely can if you want).
Affectionately known as Sin City, drinking and gambling used to be the reason for visiting this desert city.
While there’s no shortage of opportunities for partying like a rockstar, there are enough things to do for any type of traveler!
Including some unique things like visiting natural hot springs and a lion habitat (make sure you scroll to the end)!
Yes, Vegas is fun even if you don’t gamble! In fact, the first two times I went to Las Vegas, I didn’t gamble once and still had a blast.
From shopping, to the free shows, all the lights, grandiose hotels and fun buskers on Fremont Street, Las Vegas is a visual feast for anyone!
Vegas seems to be one of those destinations that if you have never been you can’t quite grasp the appeal.
But once you go, you can’t wait to get back there again.
I think it’s even the perfect destination for a honeymoon or anniversary trip (see my ideas for romantic things to do here).
If you’re traveling to Las Vegas with zero interest in gambling, below is a list of all things to do that I put together after several trips to Vegas over the years.
I think the itinerary we followed has a great mix of something for everyone.
Planning to head to Vegas for a bachelorette party? Tons of ideas below will help fill your itinerary.
After you check out the itinerary below, check out my guide about how to do Las Vegas on the cheap!
This post contains some affiliate links, meaning I may make a small commission if you make a purchase, at absolutely no extra cost to you.
You can also watch my video showcasing all my favorite things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble.
What To Do in Las Vegas If You Don’t Gamble
1. Pool Parties and Day Clubs
Cool down and get your splash on!
Pool party season in Las Vegas usually opens at the end of March.
In my opinion, late April is a great time to go. It’s hot, but not too hot and not quite as busy.
Pool parties are generally open from Thursday to Sunday.
If you don’t have a spot reserved, I recommend getting to the pool party by 10:30am.
My top picks for Las Vegas pool parties are:
Flamingo GO Pool at the Flamingo.
This pool is not only aesthetic with pink and palm trees everywhere, it’s the perfect choice for a bachelorette party or ladies trip.
Encore Beach Club at the Wynn.
This is more of a premier experience. It’s a little more expensive, but they get great DJs to play here. Plus they also have night swims!
Wet Republic at MGM.
One of the most popular pool parties in Vegas!
Drai’s Beach Club on the rooftop of the Cromwell Hotel.
Circa Resort and Casino is the newest hotel to open (opened in December 2020) and has one of the coolest pools in Las Vegas.
They call it a ‘stadium swim’ – the pool setup is similar to an amphitheater with a massive screen to catch the big game.
Oh, and the Circa Hotel is adults only!
But remember most pools in Las Vegas are only open from March to October.
If you’re visiting outside of these months, you still have a few hotels to choose from that keep their pools open.
Here is the full list of pools in Las Vegas that are open year round.
Travel tip – a cute fanny pack is the perfect bag for visiting the pool in Vegas.
I love this one from Amazon. It carries all your essentials without being too bulky, and is easy to hideaway under your chair.
2. Spend the Day On a Boat at Lake Mead
If the idea of a pool party doesn’t interest you, you can still make your own fun on the water.
Lake Mead is a 40 minute drive from the strip where you can rent a pontoon boat for the day, cruise the open water and make your own fun.
Or go on a kayak tour that is suitable for all skill levels.
>> Don’t Miss: 7 Las Vegas Scams to Avoid (and how to not get ripped-off)
3. Have Bottomless Brunch
Head to Overlook Grill at the Cosmopolitan for bottomless bubbles, mimosas, rosé and of course brunch!
Or if you prefer something a little more upscale casual, check out Alexxa’s Kitchen & Bar at the Paris hotel.
You can’t beat the bottomless mimosas.
Snag a table on the patio outside.
It makes for some great people watching or a perfect backdrop for a cute Instagram pic!
P.S. – Don’t miss my tips for scoring free and cheap drinks on your Vegas trip.
Then, it’s time to hit the Strip! During the day the sights and sounds are a little muted compared to the evening.
Vegas can be tiring. Lots of sun and heat, and lots of walking.
So if you want to stay up into the wee hours of the morning, definitely pace yourself!
Read Next: the 10 Most Overrated Things in Las Vegas – do you agree?
4. Get an Adrenaline Rush on Thrill Rides
For the thrill seekers, take a ride on the roller coaster at New York New York.
Or head to the top of the iconic STRAT Hotel for their thrill rides.
You can:
- check out the crazy G force on the Big Shot;
- spin 800 feet in the air over the edge of the tower on the Insanity ride; or
- get catapulted over the edge of the tower on the X-Scream ride.
Money saving tips:
- buy the unlimited 3 ride pass, and ride all 3 as many times as you want in one day.
- Buy the Go City Las Vegas pass, which gives you access to these attractions and 35 others, saving you money and giving you additional perks.
5. Whack Some Balls at TopGolf
Spend a couple hours at TopGolf.
It’s kinda like bowling but in a golf driving range setting! You save money and beat the crowds if you book an afternoon tee time.
This location is located in the MGM Grand Hotel.
>> Don’t have time to read the whole post? Check out my quick list of must-dos and things not to miss in Vegas for easy trip planning
6. The Strip Walking Tour + Photo Hot Spots
Book a tour on Viator with a local guide who will show you around all the iconic photo spots on the strip and be your own personal photographer along the way.
This is the perfect tour to get you acquainted with all the hot spots on the strip as well as get some nice photos of you and your travel partner so that they’re not always selfies!
If you don’t feel like walking, book this photo tour cruise, where you will be driven around to places around the Strip that are harder to walk to.
For added fun (especially if you’re on a girls’ trip or bachelorette party) use a fun Polaroid-style instant camera to capture your adventures along the way.
The Vegas Strip makes a great backdrop for these instant hard copy photos, and everyone gets to take home a memory (that isn’t buried in your 500+ selfies on your phone).
7. Kayak to Sauna Caves and Hot Springs
On this full day tour, you will start at the base of Hoover Dam and kayak down the Colorado River.
Over the course of your adventure you’ll visit sauna caves and hidden hot springs among the canyon walls.
8. Pretend You’re in Venice, Italy
Take a romantic ride on a gondola through the canals of the Venetian hotel.
If you’re visiting Las Vegas as a couple on a romantic getaway, this is the perfect way to spend a few moments together.
Don’t forget to kiss under each bridge for good luck!
Tip – book a gondola ride and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum package to save money and beat the heat for a little while.
And even if you’re traveling with your friends, it’s a nice relaxing break from walking the busy Strip.
Plus, the guide will take you indoors through the Grand Canal Shoppes where you can do some window shopping from the boat!
This is such an underrated thing to do in Las Vegas!
Not sire if it’s worth it? Read more reviews on Tripadvisor.
9. Pamper Yourself
Then pamper yourselves at the spa for a couple hours. Blowouts and mimosas anyone?
The Dry Bar Las Vegas is a great spot, and there’s even a mini photo studio and selfie spot to show off you and your girls’ new dos.
Is it Your First Time Going to Vegas? Check out 19 Las Vegas Tips for First Timers
10. Stroll the Strip at Night
Now that the casinos are all lit up, you might be thinking, besides gambling what else is there for me to do in Vegas? The answer is lots!
As the sun fades and the lights come out, it’s time to see what Vegas is all about.
For first timers (and repeat visitors) it’s fun to walk around and do some hotel and casino hopping.
Grab your favorite beverage from anywhere (corner stores are the cheapest) and stroll around and enjoy the sites and sounds.
11. Go Wine Tasting
Stop for some wine tasting at the Wine Cellar & Tasting Room at the Rio.
Better yet, treat yourselves to a Yoga Uncorked experience!
Yep – enjoy a yoga class in a beautiful outdoor courtyard setting and your choice of red or white (in a souvenir sippy cup for no spill)!
Check out for more options of wine tours below.
Wine Tours in Las Vegas. Top Picks
- 🍷 Enjoy scenic desert rides, wine tasting, and historic museums during this Desert Wine, Distillery Tastings, Route 66, Lunch Small Grp Tour (with pickup points from las Vegas)
- 🍷 Combine a wine tasting tour and a visit to Death Valley National Park: VIP Wine Tasting with Death Valley Sightseeing and Stargazing Photography Tour
- 🍷 Travel to an award-winning winery on this Sanders Family Pahrump Winery Tour from Las Vegas by SUV Cadillac Escalade
12. View the Lights from the High Roller
Taking a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel is an experience you should not miss in Las Vegas.
I recommend doing this on your first night to really appreciate the beautiful nighttime scenery.
It’s only 30 minutes but the view at night is spectacular.
If you pay extra for the happy hour, it’s a great way to enjoy a drink or two and marvel at the lights.
The bartenders are super fast and pour them strong!
Also, if you’re afraid of heights, it’s really not that bad.
Heights aren’t my best friend, but it goes slow and is super smooth. Trust me, you can handle it!
Buy your tickets in advance so you can walk right up and have minimal wait times for you and your group. Vegas.com always has the cheapest prices and you can even book your time slot for minimal wait times!
13. Horseback Riding and a Cowboy Breakfast in the Desert
Horseback riding near Valley of Fire state park was one of the most memorable Las Vegas experiences I’ve had off the Strip.
You can choose either sunrise or sunset rides, each include a hearty meal.
We enjoyed a peaceful morning ride through a canyon where the red rocks and desert collide for the most breathtaking scenery.
After the ride we devoured fresh cooked eggs, pancakes, hashbrowns, bacon and coffee.
Then we hung out with the horses and even learned how to lasso!
Watch my video documenting this incredible experience!
Book your tour with Wild West Horseback Adventures through Viator.
14. Swanky Cocktails With a View
Get some at Skyfall Lounge Delano up on the 64th floor or at the Foundation Room at the Mandalay Bay.
My guide to the best places to drink on the Strip has all the details and more recommendations.
15. Experience a Show
Now, I know I said you don’t need to see a show in Las Vegas to have fun, but there are some good one that are wildly entertaining.
There are hundreds of shows to choose from.
Absinthe is my favorite Las Vegas show.
I wanted to book tickets to see it again after the first time I saw it. This is a show that many people go and see every time they’re in Vegas.
If you’re in Vegas for a bachelorette party, try the Magic Mike show at the Hard Rock Hotel or the Naked Magicians, a new one that started in 2019!
Shows like these ones and any of the Cirque de Soleil shows typically get close to selling out on the day of, so best top buy your tickets in advance.
You can also search Vegas.com for great prices on shows and last minute deals.
16. Catch the Best Free Shows in Las Vegas
There are some amazing free shows offered on the Strip every night.
The Bellagio Fountain Show is a must-see.
After 8pm the fountains come on every 15 minutes and treat Strip-goers to a magical choreographed display of water, lights and music.
And other great free show is the exploding volcano at the Mirage (full video of it).
This one runs nightly on the hour starting at 7pm.
17. Cruise the Strip in a Pink Jeep
If you’re on a girls trip, another fun thing to do is to hop on a tour that takes you around to some iconic sites in an open air pink jeep wrangler!
On this 3-hour tour your guide will take your group to the famous ‘welcome to Las Vegas sign’, wedding chapel row and Fremont Street.
18. Learn How to Be a Stripper!
Here’s another perfect idea if you’re on a ladies-only trip: take a Stripper 101 class!
This 75-minute class is offered at Planet Hollywood, and teaches you the roles about how to pole dance and conquer some sexy choreography.
At the end, you receive a certified Stripper 101 License, a perfect Sin City souvenir.
19. Have Breakfast or Brunch Hash House a Go Go
Hash House a Go Go is a must do if you’re in Vegas. They put a fun twist on farm fresh ingredients and serve massive portions.
You’ve been warned, even the biggest eaters of my group couldn’t finish their plates!
If you’re staying on the Strip, you can find a location at the LINQ promenade, and it’s open 24 hours.
If you’re renting a house or condo off the strip, there are several other locations to choose from that won’t be as busy!
Flying to Las Vegas? Read my full and honest review of Swoop Airlines before you go!
P.S. Watch my Las Vegas Hidden Gems video!
Then it’s time to hit the Strip again and check out some of the great day time activities.
20. See the Famous Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
Start at the south end of the Strip and pay a visit to the infamous Las Vegas Sign.
Expect a wait unless you go early.
Folks may be there offering to take pics with your phone for you, just be sure to tip them a couple dollars as they’ll be expecting it.
OR, you could stand off to the side of the sign if you’re picture taker has skills and can angle it so you don’t get others in the background.
Bonus tip, if you can’t make it down to Las Vegas sign, there’s a smaller one at the LINQ promenade.
21. Watch the Aquarium and Mermaid Show
While you’re on the very south end of the Strip, if you go a little further you’ll find the Silverton Hotel for the free Aquarium and mermaid show!
Not only can you enjoy over 4000 exotic fish, you can watch mermaids swim and dance among them in the 100,000 gallon aquarium!
Back on the Strip there are even more free things to enjoy while you wait for the sun to set and the lights and sparkle to come out.
22. Admire the Flamingos
Grab a cold brew coffee and stroll through the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel.
It’s a nice quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle on the strip and who doesn’t love a few minutes with flamingos!
There’s also waterfall features and lush gardens.
Read more tips and tricks for staying at the Flamingo Las Vegas here.
23. Roam the Linq Promenade
Next, head to the nearby LINQ promenade.
Roam around the outdoor plaza and do some shopping or stop for a bite to eat or patio beverage!
This is also where In-N-Out burger is located!
You can also do the zipline from here, and there’s even an ice bar where it’s so cold you have to wear a parka (heavy winter jacket) to enjoy your drink.
24. Caesar’s Palace and the Free Show
Across the street is the iconic Caesar’s Palace.
Wandering around this property is quite the activity itself, but if you’re looking for another free show, check out the Fall of Atlantis.
This fountain and light show brings history to life.
The show is starting to show its age as it’s remained the same for over 20 years. But, it’s still free and worth a look if you happen to be nearby!
The shows run everyday from 11am every hour on the hour.
25. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Next door is the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Take a relaxing stroll through the amazing indoor gardens that are transformed four times a year with the change of the seasons.
26. Try Fun Snacks and Drinks!
When it’s hot out, look for the frozen Bailey’s drink on the Linq promenade.
Or try a cotton candy or gummy bear martini at the I Love Sugar martini bar.
Are you more of a chocolate lover like me? Head over to the Chocolate Bar at the New York New York for a selection of chocolate martinis.
Personally, I loved the peanut butter cup chocolate martini!
If you prefer a snack of the alcoholic variety, Vanderpump Cocktail Garden (Caesars) or Vanderpump à Paris is the latest spot for a sip to hit Vegas.
27. Experience Old Las Vegas on Fremont Street
Now it’s time to hit Fremont Street to take in the Fremont Street Experience. This is the original Las Vegas people!
This is a pedestrian only area where you can check out the old school casinos, watch some live music and people watch!
You can zipline over the whole area or just enjoy the energy!
28. People Watch
People watch from a seat at Mickie Finnz Fish House & Bar.
Grab a table closer to the street and watch people weigh themselves before entering the Heart Attack Grill.
The place where your meal is free if you’re over 350 pounds!
If you’re new to gambling or not much of a gambler at all, Fremont is a great place to try it out.
The old school casinos still provide a glimpse of Vegas of the past and are a nice change from the extravagance found on the Strip.
They’re generally a little less busy and a little cheaper.
You can even find lessons from blackjack dealers (usually in the mornings) to teach you how to play the game.
Vegas Pro Tip: Order yourself a copy of the American Casino Guide which is the most extensive and trusted resource about all things gambling in Vegas. Even if you have no interest in gambling, there’s over 150 coupons and basically pays for itself after you use one or two (there’s all kinds of food and buffet coupons, and coupons for shows and attractions).
29. Eat at the Most Iconic Las Vegas Restaurant
If you’re stopping for dinner before you head to Fremont, check out the Peppermill.
This place has been around since the rat pack and mob days of Vegas, and still holds its vintage charm with its velvet lined booths.
30. Visit the Oldest Bar in Las Vegas
Have a nightcap at the oldest bar in Las Vegas: Atomic Liquors.
If you’ve still got some time in this city, here’s a few more things you can do in Las Vegas besides gambling:
If you’re up for a day trip, there are some incredible places to see within a couple of hours from the city.
31. Day Trip to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon
This day tour brings you to world-famous Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, one of the most famous canyons on earth.
After a few busy days in the concrete jungle of Las Vegas, it’s nice to get out of the city and experience some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the US. (Oh and the bus has WiFi!)
32. Add Some Color to Your Trip
Closer to the city, you could visit the Seven Magic Mountains and add some serious color to your Instagram feed.
Book a 2 hour tour, where your guide will first bring you to this unique and beautiful piece of art in the desert and then bring you to the Welcome to Las Vegas sign!
And trust me, if you can get private transportation to the sign, this is the best way to get there.
It’s a long walk from the Strip, and it gets busy with taxis and rideshares.
33. Enjoy High Tea, Literally
Sip some early grey and eat dainty sandwiches on the 23rd floor of the Waldorf Astoria.
34. Be a Pinball Wizard
Relive the 80s and 90s and play any pinball game you want at the Pinball Hall of Fame.
35. Visit the Neon Museum
Experience Las Vegas history with a walk through the outdoor neon sign museum (originally called the neon sign boneyard!
36. Go For a Drive or a Hike in the Breathtaking Landscapes
Go for a chill hike or scenic drive at Red Rock Canyon, only 25 miles from Las Vegas.
For an unforgettable way to spend a few hours off the Las Vegas strip, experience sunrise on an e-bike! Watch the fiery colors reflect off the rock for an incredible start to your day.
Or try a more challenging hike that takes you above the city on the Las Vegas overlook trail.
37. Area 15
Area 15 is one of the newer attractions in Las Vegas that you don’t want to miss.
It’s free to walk around this alternate world warehouse, or you can purchase separate tickets for exhibits.
Omega Mart is a must-do – walk through a psychedelic labyrinth made to feel like a grocery store from another dimension.
Don’t forget to hit up the hidden bar here too, Datamosh, for the most unusual cocktails.
Watch my full video tour of Omega Mart here!
38. Lion Habitat Ranch
There’s a lion sanctuary only 15 minutes south of the Strip! This used to be the home of the lions that were used for the shows at the MGM Grand.
When the shows stopped in 2012, this non-profit sanctuary opened to the public.
Now, there are rescued animals from other zoos and surrendered pets.
In addition to the 36 lions, there’s also a giraffe who paints pictures!
39. Discover Las Vegas Hidden Gems
Las Vegas is full of hidden gem attractions, experiences and restaurants off the strip.
Don’t miss a few of my favorites: a speakeasy café, a medieval themed restaurant and ghost towns!
Read about these hidden gems and unique things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip here.
BONUS ACTIVITY – Hike to Natural Hot Springs
Visiting the Arizona hot springs is one of the most unique experiences in Las Vegas away from the flashy Strip.
With a local guide, you will do an evening hike through the canyon walls formed by the Colorado River with the grand finale of soaking in natural hot springs pools and then lunch on the beach.
So if you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and aren’t interested in gambling, as you can see there’s no shortage of things to do!
Some Tips About Where to Stay in Vegas for Non-Gamblers
Rent a House for Cheap! Las Vegas Accommodation Options Off the Strip
If you’re looking for recommendations about where to stay in Vegas if you don’t gamble, I suggest either staying off the Strip or finding a hotel on the Strip that has lots of other attractions within it.
Not everyone is a fan of having to walk through the casino to grab your morning coffee, so staying in a residential neighborhood would be a good option.
Catch some morning sun by the pool, enjoy some mimosas or caesars (or bloody marys) and cook an epic brunch with your friends.
Or, if you’re traveling with a group, consider renting a house off the Strip.
We had a group of 10 friends and this was the best idea! We had our own pool, our own hot tub and our own kitchen.
Having our own place made things super easy to organize. We woke up whenever we wanted and didn’t have to worry about getting down to the pool early to grab chairs.
We played our own music, and the drinks were much cheaper than a hotel pool on the strip.
You can hang out in your unicorn pool floatie with a beverage in hand.
Can’t do that in a hotel pool on the strip!
If you’re planning to rent a house, you can have groceries and booze delivered!
With services like Instacart, you can order groceries the day before you arrive and have them delivered to the house you’re renting.
This makes it so easy these days, and way cheaper than staying on the strip.
For instance, my friends and I rented a house for 4 nights. It worked out to be $30 USD per person.
We bought enough booze for all 4 days and food for 2 brunches and 2 dinners. This totaled only another $50 USD. This is a great option for a Las Vegas on a budget!
We found this great house to rent in Las Vegas on VRBO. It had everything we needed. Lots of bedrooms and bathrooms, a big kitchen and a huge backyard with our own pool and hot tub.
Read more about tips for choosing the best vacation rental here.
You Might Also Like: Unique Ideas for a Bachelorette Party
Here are My Favorite Las Vegas Accommodation Options On the Strip
If you want to be in the middle of the action, I love staying at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.
For people looking for a hotel in Vegas for non-gamblers, the pool here is awesome, with lots of palm trees for shade.
It’s perfectly central on the Strip and is still an affordable option. Plus, it’s mostly pink!
Read my detailed overview of everything you need to know about staying at the Flamingo Hotel here.
The Paris Las Vegas Hotel is also nice and central and great for a romantic option if you’re on a couples getaway.
Hotel WiFi in Las Vegas is included in the daily resort fee, which includes things like pool and fitness center access.
Most fees only cover connecting up to 2 devices and is spotty at best.
More Las Vegas (and related) Posts:
- 14 Important Considerations Before you Travel with Friends (so that you don’t ruin your friendship)!
- How to Tackle Your Pre-Travel Anxiety (and get rid of those travel jitters)
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