While gambling is by far the most common reason people go to Las Vegas, be sure that there are plenty of other things to see and do. We’ve been to Vegas over a dozen times, with a variety of family members, and never tire of showing everyone the sights. Here are some of our favorites.
A nighttime walking trip, down the strip, is a must. When "hiking" along the strip, keep in mind that objects (such as buildings and signs) are huge, making them seem MUCH closer than they really are. While you are enjoying the lights, stop by a few of the FREE attractions shown below.
The Bellagio conservatorium is open 24 hours a day. While you are in the casino, be sure to check out the lobby area, for scenes made almost completely from flowers (including people). The Bellagio also has a wonderful outdoor fountain show, which operates every 30 minutes during the afternoon (Mon-Fri beginning at 3pm; Sat/Sun beginning at noon) and every 15 minutes at night (8-midnight). The fountains are best seen at night, when colorful lights add to an already spectacular show.
Ceasar’s Palace has two fountain shows, inside the Forum Shop area. The Festival Fountain show is okay, but the Fall of Atlantis show (known in our family as the Fire and Ice Show) is a must see. Both shows run hourly (Sun-Thu 10am – 11pm; Fri-Sat 10am – midnight). Get there early so you can get close to the action. There are huge fish tanks and an ever changing "sky" to amuse you while you are waiting for the show to start.
For the animal lovers, you can visit the MGM Grand, which has a Lion Habitat (open 11am to 10pm daily) or the Mirage, which has a White Tiger Habitat (open 9am – 2:30pm daily). Most days visitors are luckier that they are at the poker table and the animals are up and moving.
Treasure Island presents the Sirens of TI, an outdoor pirate ship battle, 4 times nightly (5:30, 7, 8:30 and 10pm). Be sure to get there early, spaces fill up early. I wouldn’t suggest going on a windy day, because there is nothing worse than waiting an hour for the show and then it’s canceled due to high winds!
The volcano at the Mirage "erupts" every 30 minutes, between 6pm and midnight. Again, get there early and avoid windy days.
The Rio Hotel and Casino has "Masquerade in the Sky" shows that takes place at 3, 4, 5, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30pm daily. We normally catch this show while waiting in line for the seafood buffet. By the way, watch out for flying beads!
The Fremont Street Experience lights up the night every hour, on the hour, between 7pm and midnight. This attraction is downtown and there is plenty of space, so you do not need to arrive early.