Bustling Las Vegas is a city that always has something for anyone to do. From kid-friendly attractions to adult-only happy hours, there are more options than most tourists have time to see when on vacation to Sin City. Especially for anyone who’s never been to Vegas, making a plan and a budget can be tricky. But there are some sites that absolutely can’t be left off your sightseeing list when you visit. Here is my collection of what to do on your first, or next, trip to Las Vegas.
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Become Part of the Skyline: The LINQ High Roller
Take a trip up and around the LINQ High Roller during your trip to Las Vegas for a truly unique way to view the Strip. As the world’s tallest Ferris Wheel, the High Roller pods go as high as 550 feet above the ground, so you’ll not only be able to see the Strip but also the surrounding desert mountains. It’s a view second to none on a fun half-hour ride. It’s helpful to book your High Roller tickets as soon as you’ve booked your trip, as it’s an incredibly popular Vegas attraction. There’s even an option to select a bar pod so that you can enjoy your favorite beverage in the sky, which is amazing!
Catch a Cirque du Soleil Performance
Sin City is famous for its myriad incredible shows, from comedic magicians to amazing singers. Cirque du Soleil, however, is a must-see when you visit Las Vegas. It is truly a performance I will never forget! The acrobatic performers show off their extremely impressive stunts set to beautiful music and backdrops. There are various Cirque du Soleil shows offered throughout the Strip, including KÀ, The Beatles LOVE, O, and Mystère. Each show has its own distinct personality, so choose based on what speaks to you!
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Explore the Oasis: Lake Mead and Lake Las Vegas
When most people think of Las Vegas, they picture casinos on the Strip and desert scenery. But Las Vegas actually boasts two beautiful lake areas that are home to water sports, shopping, dining, hiking, and even resorts to stay in. Visit the lake in Las Vegas for a break from city life. Check out Cowabunga Bay Water Park or Ethel M Chocolates Factory & Cactus Garden on your way there or back to make the trip worthwhile! Their chocolates are not to be missed! Visiting Land Mead and Lake Las Vegas can be a side trip or a trip in itself.
Swim With Sharks: The Golden Nugget
Yes, you read that right! At The Golden Nugget, you’ll be able to swim with sharks. Many Vegas hotels boast some amazing pools, but The Golden Nugget is home to one of Vegas’ few water slides. You’ll have the chance to slide down a tube through a 200,000-gallon water tank full of sharks and other sea creatures. If you’re traveling to Las Vegas with kids, they’ll love this attraction! If this isn’t your cup of tea, have a drink at The Hideout, a 21+ pool experience separate from the main deck, instead. I found this a very relaxing way to wait for my friends while they swam with the sharks.
Go Grocery Shopping: Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart
Don’t just go grocery shopping at just any old grocery store, though; make sure you set some time aside to browse Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart. And, while you’re at it, prepare for your new career in customer service, which requires some “employee training.” Make sure to spend careful attention on the products in the store. You may end up on a scavenger hunt that leads somewhere truly otherworldly.
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Embrace Your Inner Foodie
Las Vegas knows how to eat, and after joining one of its many popular foodie tours, you will too, trust me! Options range from the more affordable to the extravagant, but either way, your taste buds will thank you. These foodie tours are also great opportunities to explore other parts of Las Vegas aside from the Strip– although the Strip has its fair share of incredible culinary tours and experiences. Consider exploring the Vegas Arts District or Downtown via a Lip Smacking Tour.
Travel the World
Maybe not literally, but you can get pretty close all within the confines of Las Vegas! First, hop on a gondola at The Venetian and explore the Shoppes. This resort is inspired by Venice, Italy, and can offer an authentic Italian experience. After, consider a visit to Paris Las Vegas and climb the Eiffel Tower. The replica Tower may only be half the size of the original, but it’s still plenty beautiful. Then, make a trip out to New York-New York and ride Las Vegas Boulevard’s roller coaster.
Learn Something New: Las Vegas Museums
Las Vegas has a plethora of fascinating museums on niche topics, so there’s truly something for everyone. For those interested in anatomy, Real Bodies at Bally’s is a must-see. You’ll have the chance to learn more about the human body from twenty cadavers and hundreds of real organs. I found this to be very informative and entertaining, too! The Mob Museum is popular among children and adults, and it is one of the most popular museums in Vegas with good reason, I discovered. History buffs will enjoy the National Atomic Testing Museum. This Smithsonian affiliate museum features actual pieces and artifacts from testing sites.
(Photo by Pixabay on Pixabay.com)
For More:
- Visit Las Vegas, official tourism site
- Travel Nevada, official tourism site
- On our site: Yes, Las Vegas is still a very popular wedding destination!
-All photos as credited. Cover photo by Prime Cinematics on Pexels.com
