Experiences
Las Vegas shows and experiences beyond the casinos
The fountains dance to music, the neon flickers and the desert waits just outside town. How to make the most of Las Vegas, even if you never gamble.
It is warm even at eleven at night. In front of the Bellagio the fountains shoot up in time with the music, people stop mid-pavement to film, and all around you the Strip flashes in every colour. Las Vegas is over the top on purpose, and that is exactly why it is so much fun.
Many people think Las Vegas is all about casinos, but the city has some of the biggest shows in the world, excellent restaurants and desert and national parks just outside. It is also a natural starting point for the Grand Canyon, Zion and Death Valley.
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How to do it
Distances on the Strip are longer than they look. Walk in the evening, and take a taxi or the monorail by day.
Book shows in advance, especially at weekends.
Stay mid-Strip for shows and restaurants, or downtown by Fremont Street for something cheaper and more retro.
Check resort fees. Many hotels add a daily charge on top of the room rate.
The best shows and experiences
Cirque du Soleil: several resident shows at different hotels, with acrobatics, water and music.
Sphere: the giant globe east of the Strip with screens inside and out, used for concerts and immersive films.
The Bellagio fountains: a free show in the afternoon and evening.
Fremont Street Experience: old Las Vegas downtown, with a canopy of lights, street music and a zip line.
The Neon Museum: signs from the city's old casinos, best on an evening tour.
High Roller: an observation wheel with views over the Strip.
Welcome to Las Vegas
The famous sign at the south end of the Strip. Photo: David Vives / Unsplash
Beyond the city
Around half an hour west of town is Red Rock Canyon, with red cliffs and great hikes. Valley of Fire has flame-coloured sandstone and petroglyphs. The Hoover Dam is a popular half-day trip, and Death Valley is around two hours away.
Book experiences: See shows, tours and experiences in Las Vegas
Where to stay in Las Vegas
The big casino resorts on the Strip are an experience in themselves. Downtown by Fremont Street, the mood is more retro and prices are often lower.
Conrad Las Vegas
Views over the Strip from Resorts World. Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World: new and big
Conrad is in Resorts World at the north end of the Strip, one of the newest complexes in the city, with plenty of pools and restaurants. Fashion Show Mall is nearby.
Book your stay: See rooms at Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World
The Reserve at Park MGM: in the thick of it
The Reserve is in Park MGM in the middle of the Strip, a short walk from Dolby Live and the Bellagio fountains. Handy for shows and restaurants.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Reserve at Park MGM
Mandalay Bay: a pool holiday on the south Strip
Mandalay Bay is known for its huge pool area with a sandy beach and wave pool. A good choice for families and anyone combining sun and shows.
Book your stay: See rooms at Mandalay Bay Resort And Casino
Circa Resort & Casino
Retro downtown with pools on the roof. Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Circa: an adults-only hotel on Fremont Street
Circa is downtown by the Fremont Street Experience and is adults only. It has several pools and a distinct retro style that suits old Las Vegas.
Book your stay: See rooms at Circa Resort & Casino
When is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
March to May and October to November bring comfortable temperatures. Summer is extremely hot, so much of life happens indoors or by the pool. Winter is mild by day but cold at night. Avoid big conventions and events if you want lower prices.
When should you book?
Hotels at weekends and during big events: several weeks ahead.
Shows: a few weeks ahead for the most popular.
Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam tours: a few days ahead.
Frequently asked questions about Las Vegas
Where should I stay in Las Vegas?
Stay mid-Strip, for example at The Reserve at Park MGM, for shows and restaurants. Conrad at Resorts World is new and big, Mandalay Bay suits a pool holiday, and Circa on Fremont Street offers retro downtown atmosphere.
What can you do in Las Vegas without gambling?
See shows such as Cirque du Soleil, the Bellagio fountains, Fremont Street and the Neon Museum, and take day trips to Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon.
How far is the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?
Grand Canyon West with the Skywalk is around two to three hours away. The South Rim in the national park is roughly four to five hours by car.
What is a resort fee in Las Vegas?
Many hotels add a daily charge on top of the room rate. Check the total price before you book.
When is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures. Summer is extremely hot, and winter evenings can be chilly.