Las Vegas may be world-famous for its casinos, but there’s so much more to see and do. From unique museums and culinary experiences to adventure and stunning city views, Las Vegas offers a diverse range of activities, many of which are under $50. Here’s a list of fantastic attractions and experiences to enjoy in Las Vegas that don’t involve gambling!
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Museums and Unique Exhibits
Though Las Vegas isn’t usually recognized for its museums, it actually has several fascinating ones that give visitors a glimpse into history and culture. Here are some that might pique your interest:
The first museum that must be mentioned is The Mob Museum. How can you not talk about the mob when speaking of Las Vegas? Not only can you walk around the museum to learn all about the mob, but there are also interactive experiences for you to enjoy. Don’t miss the Underground Speakeasy and Distillery to catch a glimpse of the past. Hours for the museum are 9 – 9 daily, but some holiday have special hours so be sure to check before you go. General admission tickets are $34.95. There is limited parking with a cost of $8, but you can always get there by rideshare. If you are staying at a hotel on Fremont St., it’s easier to walk here. It’s only a couple blocks.
While you’re in the area, take a stroll through the Arts District to see some of the great artists in Las Vegas. There are art galleries, shops, restaurants and great nightlife! If you enjoy art and art galleries this is a great place to go and help out the local artists and take in it’s creative side.
Downtown Container Park is also an interesting place in downtown Las Vegas. It is an area made of freight containers that now serve home to shops and restaurants. There is also a playground here for children to enjoy. I found this to be really interesting, just because of the uniqueness of using recycled containers.
Next up is the Neon Museum. Pretty appropriate for Las Vegas don’t you think? This has all the iconic, retired neon signs from Las Vegas past. It’s a great representation of vintage Las Vegas.Tickets start at $25 for day tours and $35 for night tours there are additional packages available. Check website for hours since they may change due to weather and holidays.
If you’re looking for some real fun, go play pinball at the Pinball Hall of Fame. The pinball machines are available to play, and some are from as far back as the 1950’s all the way up to the 1990’s. Who doesn’t like to play pinball? The hours here are Sun. – Thurs. 10 am – 9 pm, Fri. and Sat. 10 am -10 pm.
Next up on the list- The Atomic Museum. Off course with all the atomic testing done in Nevada there has to be a museum! You can learn more about this history here and more!
Adventure and Entertainment
Slotzilla is one of the best ziplines around. Enhanced by the light show as you zip over Fremont Street is such a thrill. While you’re here, take a stroll through Fremont St. and make sure you stop in the casinos and take in some history of Las Vegas. For information, read our blog for 15 fun things to do on Fremont Street.
If ziplines are your thing, you can also head to the strip and ride the Linq zipline. While you are there, take a stroll through the promenade. There are plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment to keep you busy for a while.
While you’re exploring Fremont St., try your hand at axe throwing at Axehole, located in Neonopolis right off Fremont St. You can also race cars at the Gene Woods racing experience. For more fun things to do in Neonopolis, check their website.
If you have a partner or group of 6 or less, you can hit some golf balls at Top Golf for an hour for less than $50 each. There is also a restaurant, two pools and concert venue here among other things.
For more golf action, visit Atomic Golf at the Strat. For $80 you and 7 other friends can hit golf balls for an hour. Check for hours before you go as they do change during the week. There are also golf packages available for singles and groups.
Scenic views and Unique Experiences
Skypod at the Strat You will get the greatest views of the Las Vegas Strip on the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States. It is a 1,149-foot-tall Observation Deck and is your stop for great views, restaurants and some extreme adventures. Open Daily 10am-1am. Admission for the tower is $30. If you’re feeling brave, check out some of the tower’s thrilling rides.
The Eiffel Tower at the Paris offers a great view not only of the Las Vegas strip, but a full-on view of the Bellagio Fountains. If you plan your trip to the top correctly you can catch the fountain show which is really beautiful at night. I recommend doing this at night to see the beauty of Las Vegas lit up, but we have done both and during the day there are some great views of not only the strip but the beautiful mountains surrounding the city. Tickets for this are $25.
High Roller– this giant Ferris Wheel at the Linq offers a 360-degree view of the amazing Las Vegas in spacious cabins. At 550 feet, you’ll enjoy a relaxed 30-minute ride with unbeatable city views.
Take a ride on a Gondola through the canal shoppes at the Venetian. You can take a ride inside through the canal or outside and see the beautiful views of the strip. We did the inside ride and since it’s the closest I’ll probably ever get to Venice; I truly enjoyed it. Prices start at $39. While you’re there be sure to walk through the Canal Shops and make your way over to the Palazzo where you will find more shops and restaurants.
One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas is go see the flower show at the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio. These flower displays are amazing. They change this for every season and Lunar New Year. This for me is a must do while in Las Vegas.
See the sharks at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. There are over 2000 animals swimming in the tank so you will be mesmerized by all of them. It is open daily 10 am – 8pm and tickets are $29.
Visit the Flamingos at the 4-acre Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. Not only are there flamingos, but ducks, birds and koi fish. The pathway through the habitat is very serene and a great place for a stroll. I always enjoy walking through here.
Take in the Fall of the Atlantis show at Caesars Palace it’s free and takes you through the Forum shops so you can do a little shopping too!
If you like board games check out Play Playground at the Luxor. They have games for adults here so you can let your inner child out and play all you want! Tickets start at $49
Get your picture taken at the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign! Just keep in mind there is very limited parking, and it can get really busy. Late afternoon is probably the best time to go.
Something a little different
Not only can you shop at one of the biggest Bass Pro Shop, but you can see a wonderful Mermaid show at the Silverton casino. They also offer Mermaid school for both children and adults. We haven’t done the mermaid school but the aquarium alone is worth visiting.
Area 15 and Omega Mart by Meow Wolf are known for its otherworldly experiences and immersive art. Area 15 offers a wide range of attractions that will blow your mind. Omega Mart is an interactive grocery store with hidden passages and mysteries to solve.
Lion Habitat Ranch is a great place to visit. It not only has lions, but many other animals. Prices start at $8. Times vary, so check website for more information.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas without spending a lot of money. I didn’t mention the many places you can stroll around and window shop or buy yourself some souvenirs. There is something for everyone in Las Vegas, no matter your budget. Be sure to check casino websites before you go, as many offer discounted rates for guests and club members. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
We share information and tips that we’ve learned with you to help you plan your trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures and make memories that will last. Even if you do a trip close to home for the day you never know what you may find that you never knew was there. Go out and have fun!
Whenever you are ready to go on your adventure, don’t forget to let people know where you will be just in case of an emergency. Also, we recommend get traveling insurance if for no other reason than to protect your property. We think Faye Insurance offers good rates. Also make sure you have a list of emergency contacts with you.