Here are five things you really should do on a Las Vegas trip. Did you know that in the city of gambling and glitter, there is far more to do than wander the casinos?
1. Take a Grand Canyon trip from Las Vegas
If you are planning a Las Vegas trip, do not stop at the city itself — make time for the Grand Canyon. The canyon is divided into four main areas: the West Rim, South Rim, East Rim, and North Rim. The West Rim sits about two hours from Las Vegas by car, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
The West Rim is the only section of the Grand Canyon with a helicopter terminal, so you can tour it by air as well as by vehicle, which makes the visit far more varied and colorful. There you can also try the Skywalk, a bridge with a floor of solid glass, and visit Native American dwellings, traditional dance performances, and jewelry shops. For travelers on a short itinerary, it is an excellent one-day outing.
The South Rim is the section Las Vegas travelers visit most, about four to five hours away by car. It is one of the most famous destinations not just in the United States but in the world — the deepest, largest, most beautiful canyon there is — and it always ranks among the places people say you must see in your lifetime. Popular activities include hiking, mule rides, and camping. It is a long drive, but if you have come as far as Las Vegas, it is not to be missed.
Whether you choose the West Rim or the South Rim, the beauty and mystery of that landscape defy description. If you travel to Las Vegas, do not skip the Grand Canyon.
2. See a world-famous show
Las Vegas is lined with some of the most famous shows on earth, and catching one is an essential part of any visit.
Among the many options, the classic recommendation is O by Cirque du Soleil — one of the three great Las Vegas shows and the most famous of them all. Created and produced by the world-renowned Canadian circus company, O plays at the O Theatre inside the Bellagio and is built around striking performances on the water. The show runs 90 minutes, with superb sound and lighting and spectacular underwater acrobatics, and it remains one of the most-watched shows among Las Vegas visitors.
Alongside O, the other signature production is KA, also created and produced by Cirque du Soleil. KA plays at the MGM Grand and makes bold use of visual spectacle: a stage that rotates 360 degrees, high-wire acrobatics, and fire effects. Blending traditional Eastern imagery such as samurai with Western elements, it tells an epic story through music and dance that captivates audiences of every age — children especially love it.
Beyond these, there are magic shows, performance acts of every kind, and adults-only revues, so make a point of seeing at least one show while you are in town.
3. Stroll the Las Vegas Strip
The Strip is the signature sight of Las Vegas. Casinos, hotels, restaurants, and theaters crowd together here, famous for their dazzling lights and architecture, and most visitors stay at a hotel right on it.
As you walk the Strip, you can browse the most famous and extravagant casinos and hotels in the city and enjoy the services and facilities they offer. The Strip is also packed with world-famous chain restaurants and Michelin-starred dining, serving cuisine from all over the globe.
Strip hotels host famous shows and events 365 days a year, and with large shopping centers and luxury boutiques in every property, there is never a dull moment. At night the Strip glows even brighter, and you can take in what may be the most spectacular city nightscape in the world. It is fair to say you have not really been to Las Vegas until you have seen the Strip.
4. Explore Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas, about six kilometers north of the Strip, is the city's old town. Its history began with one of the oldest hotel buildings in Las Vegas, and the area is home to historic buildings, the courthouse, city hall, and wedding chapels. Downtown is especially famous as the place where the city's first casinos were built.
Downtown lost a little of its former glory once the Strip appeared, but it is rich in culture: art galleries, museums, and live music venues, including a library that has won international architecture awards, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, and the Arts District. Events and festivals fill the area every year, along with hip artwork and performances. You can also see Fremont Street, Container Park, and the old casinos, and soak up a modest, retro atmosphere completely different from the Strip.
For travelers who want to feel old Las Vegas and enjoy its cultural side, Downtown is a stop you should not skip.
5. Experience the nightclub scene
Las Vegas has a nightclub culture famous around the world. The city is full of entertainment that runs 24 hours a day, and the casinos of the big Strip hotels each run nightclubs with their own concepts, headlined by world-famous DJs night after night. Plenty of travelers come to Las Vegas just to tour the clubs.
Among the many options, the best-known names are Hakkasan at the MGM Grand, Omnia at Caesars Palace, XS at Encore, and the newer Zouk at Resorts World. Every club differs in size, concept, and atmosphere, so choose the one that fits your style. Keep in mind that Las Vegas clubs have dress codes and age limits, so check before you go.
If you are the energetic type who loves music and dancing, make sure a Las Vegas nightclub is on your itinerary.
This article is general information, not legal advice about your specific situation.