Ready to skip the tourist traps and see Las Vegas like a local? This list highlights 35 fantastic things to do in Las Vegas!
These are things that go beyond the flashy strip. From hidden gems to beloved hangouts, discover the experiences that make Sin City a unique playground for those who call it home.
Planning a trip to Vegas and aren’t sure where to stay or which airline to fly?
Let Expedia’s package deals take all the hassle, guess-work, scams, and terrible experiences out of the way!
With Expedia, you can stay at amazing places like (my favorite) The Cosmopolitan for under $250/night!
CLICK HERE to see all the best Vegas package deals on Expedia!
35 Must-Do Experiences in Las Vegas Favored by Locals
1. Take a Stroll at Springs Preserve
Springs Preserve is a great place to unwind and enjoy nature right in the heart of Vegas. With beautiful botanical gardens and walking trails, it offers a peaceful escape from the usual hustle. Plus, you can learn about the history of Vegas while soaking in the fresh air.
2. Experience the Zip Lines at Fremont Street Experience
Fremont Street is a must-see for anyone visiting Las Vegas.
This lively area is filled with bright neon signs, street performers, and live entertainment that keeps the energy high. For an extra thrill, try the zip lines that take you soaring above the crowds under the iconic LED canopy – it’s an unforgettable rush that combines the best of Vegas excitement with spectacular views.
But with all the hustlers and buskers on the street (I’m looking at you pretend showgirls), it’s best to not break stride or make eye contact with all the people trying to get your attention (and money), lol.
Trying to save a few extra bucks for your Vegas trip?
In a recent article, I detail 25 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Las Vegas on a Budget!
CLICK HERE to read it now on my site and make sure you aren’t missing out!
3. Visit Blue Man Group at Luxor
Blue Man Group at Luxor offers an electrifying multimedia experience that combines music, comedy, and technology in ways you’ve never seen before.
This iconic show features three enigmatic blue characters who create an immersive performance filled with percussion, paint, and audience participation. It’s a quintessential Vegas experience that locals love for its creativity and innovation.
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to The Blue Man Group Performance on Expedia!
4. Relax at Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a great place to unwind away from the hustle of the Strip.
With stunning views and plenty of trails, it’s perfect for a day trip. Even if you never get out of the car, it’s an extraordinary drive on a one-way road through some truly breathtaking scenery.
Watching out for roaming tortoises (although I did not see any on my last visit).
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to the Award Winning Red Rock Canyon Tour on Expedia!
5. Experience First Friday Art Celebration
First Friday Art Celebration is a fun event in downtown Las Vegas that showcases local art and culture. You’ll find street performers, food trucks, and unique vendors lining the streets, making it a great place to hang out.
It’s a perfect way to soak in the local vibe and create memories with friends or family.
6. Visit the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a great place to see the history of Vegas through its iconic neon signs.
You’ll find everything from vintage treasures to modern art pieces, making it a fun ride for anyone interested in Sin City’s past. The outdoor display showcases the evolution of Las Vegas through its most memorable signage, offering both day and night tours for different perspectives.
Go at night for the best experience.
7. Visit the Mob Museum
The Mob Museum is a must-see for anyone curious about Las Vegas history.
This place dives into the world of organized crime with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the mob’s influence on Vegas. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, it’s a great spot to learn and have a fun time.
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to the Mob Museum on Expedia!
8. Experience Arte Museum Las Vegas
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Arte Museum Las Vegas offers an immersive digital art experience that transforms traditional museum visits into interactive adventures. This cutting-edge venue features stunning projection mapping and digital installations that respond to movement and touch.
Located on the walkway between The Cosmopolitan and The Shops at Crystals, it’s where technology meets creativity in the most Vegas way possible, creating Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.
Trying to save a few extra bucks for your Vegas trip?
In a recent article, I detail 25 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Las Vegas on a Budget!
CLICK HERE to read it now on my site and make sure you aren’t missing out!
9. Take a Gondola Ride at The Venetian
The Venetian’s gondola rides offer a romantic escape right in the heart of the Strip.
Glide through authentic-looking canals while your gondolier serenades you with Italian songs, creating a slice of Venice in the Nevada desert. Whether you choose the indoor Grand Canal Shoppes route or the outdoor experience, it’s a unique way to see Vegas from a different perspective.
10. Experience the Secret Pizza
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Secret Pizza is a hidden gem in Las Vegas that locals love on the third floor of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
This spot serves up delicious slices that are perfect after a night out or before hitting the casino floor. Don’t miss the chance to grab a slice and enjoy a laid-back vibe away from the hustle of the Strip.
Don’t look for a sign though. That’s the secret part. Just look for the line of hungry people in the hallway lined with vinyl record albums waiting to get in!
11. Catch a Show at The Smith Center
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The Smith Center is a gem in Las Vegas, offering a variety of live shows that locals love. From Broadway hits, family-friendly events, jazz performances to rock concerts, this venue creates unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy some fantastic entertainment in a beautiful setting!
12. Explore Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
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Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay offers an underwater adventure featuring over 2,000 animals including sharks, rays, sea turtles, and exotic fish.
Walk through the 1.3-million-gallon shipwreck exhibit and experience the thrill of being surrounded by predators of the deep. This immersive aquarium provides a refreshing break from the casino floor and creates lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
My 7-year-old daughter and I just did this and she was ready to go again the moment we finished it!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to the Shark Reef on Expedia!
13. Relax at Mandalay Bay Beach
Mandalay Bay Beach brings a tropical paradise to the Nevada desert with its 11-acre aquatic playground.
Featuring a lazy river, multiple pools, and a real sand beach, it’s the perfect escape from the Strip’s intensity. The wave pool and beach club atmosphere make it feel like a mini-vacation within your Vegas vacation, especially popular with locals looking for a resort experience without leaving town.
14. Visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum
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The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a hidden gem in Sin City that offers a fun ride through the history of Vegas.
With fascinating exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to organized crime, it’s a great place for first-time visitors or history buffs. Don’t miss the chance to create amazing memories while exploring this unique spot!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to the Natural History Museum on Expedia!
15. Visit the Container Park
Container Park is a cool spot in downtown Las Vegas that locals love.
You can find unique shops, tasty food, and live entertainment all in one place. Plus, it’s a great spot for first-time visitors to soak up the local vibe without spending a dime on admission!
And every business is inside of, you guessed it . . . a shipping container!
Trying to save a few extra bucks for your Vegas trip?
In a recent article, I detail 25 Free and Cheap Things to Do in Las Vegas on a Budget!
CLICK HERE to read it now on my site and make sure you aren’t missing out!
16. Explore the Las Vegas Farmers Market
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The Las Vegas Farmers Market is a great place to enjoy fresh produce and local goods.
They have 3 different locations to choose from, so click on any of these for a map link:
Stroll through the vibrant stalls and chat with friendly vendors while picking up some delicious snacks. It’s a fun way to experience the local food artisans!
17. Experience the High Roller Observation Wheel
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The High Roller at The LINQ offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Las Vegas from 550 feet above the Strip.
This giant observation wheel provides a 30-minute ride in climate-controlled cabins, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the city skyline. Whether you ride during the day or at sunset, it’s an iconic Vegas experience that gives you a bird’s eye view of all the action below.
If you’ve seen (or ridden) the London Eye Ferris Wheel, this is VERY similar, but actually over 100 feet taller than its UK counterpart!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to the High Roller Observation Wheel on Expedia!
18. Visit The Mob Museum’s Underground Speakeasy & Distillery
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The Mob Museum’s Underground speakeasy offers an authentic Prohibition-era experience beneath the museum.
This hidden gem features handcrafted cocktails made with spirits distilled on-site, creating an intimate atmosphere that transports you back to the 1920s. It’s the perfect spot for cocktail enthusiasts looking to combine history with expertly crafted drinks in a uniquely Vegas setting.
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to a tour of all the best hidden speakeasys on Expedia!
19. Experience Cirque du Soleil’s Mystรจre at Treasure Island
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Mystรจre at Treasure Island is the original must-see Cirque du Soleil production that combines high-energy acrobatics and dramatic dance set to the thunderous rhythms of the Taรฏko drums.
Featuring an international cast of 67 artists, Mystรจre provides the ultimate discovery that life itself is a mystery. This groundbreaking show has been captivating audiences for decades (since 1993) and remains a cornerstone of Vegas entertainment.
My family and I just saw this show and we were captivated from start to finish!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to see Cirque du Soleil on Expedia!
20. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Lake Mead
Lake Mead is a fantastic spot for outdoor fun just outside of Las Vegas.
Lake Mead is a reservoir created by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River and goes across both Nevada and Arizona.
You can kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax by the water while soaking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great day trip for anyone looking to escape the hustle of the Strip and enjoy some fresh air.
21. Visit the Nevada State Museum โ Las Vegas
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The Nevada State Museum โ Las Vegas is a hidden gem located inside the Springs Preserve complex.
This museum dives deep into the stateโs fascinating past, from prehistoric fossils and desert wildlife to the boom of Las Vegas and its atomic age history.
Itโs a quiet, educational escape from the Strip that locals love. With interactive exhibits and rotating displays, itโs perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone curious about Nevadaโs roots.
22. Explore the Springs Preserve’s Botanical Gardens
The Springs Preserve’s Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem in Las Vegas.
With vibrant flowers and unique plants, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy nature. Plus, the gardens offer free admission, making it one of the best free things to do in the entertainment capital of the world!
23. Visit The Laundry Room at Commonwealth
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The Laundry Room is Las Vegas’s most exclusive cocktail experience, hidden behind an unmarked door inside Commonwealth bar in downtown.
This intimate 20-seat speakeasy serves some of the most innovative cocktails in the city, with no menu and bartenders who craft drinks based on your preferences. Reservations are essential for this sophisticated hideaway that locals consider the city’s best-kept secret.
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to a tour of all the best hidden speakeasys on Expedia!
24. Take a Day Trip to Hoover Dam
A trip to Hoover Dam is a must for anyone visiting Las Vegas.
Just a short drive 40-ish minutes away, this engineering marvel offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding landscape.
It’s a great way to escape the hustle of the Strip and learn about a true engineering marvel. Drive across, walk across, or park and take a guided tour.
Bighorn sheep sightings along the drive are an added bonus!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to a Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle on Expedia!
25. Unwind at Waldorf Astoria Spa Las Vegas
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The Waldorf Astoria Spa Las Vegas offers world-class luxury treatments in an elegant setting that rivals the finest spas globally.
Located in the non-gaming CityCenter, this tranquil oasis features signature treatments, a co-ed relaxation pool, and personalized wellness experiences. After a day of pampering with their renowned massages and facials, you’ll feel completely rejuvenated and ready to tackle the Vegas nightlife.
26. Browse The Writer’s Block Bookstore
The Writer’s Block is Las Vegas’s beloved independent bookstore, offering a curated selection of books, local author events, and a cozy atmosphere that’s rare on the Strip.
This community gathering place hosts book clubs, poetry readings, and literary events that showcase the city’s intellectual side. It’s the perfect escape for book lovers seeking a quiet moment away from the casino noise.
27. Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory
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If you’re a chocolate lover, the Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a must-visit. You can take a fun FREE tour to see how their delicious treats are made, and there’s even a beautiful botanical garden to stroll through.
Enjoy free samples and savor this sweet stop just off the Strip.
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to do a chocolate tour of all of Vegas’ best chocolate shops on Expedia!
28. Skyfall Panoramic Bar & Lounge
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Rooftop bars on the Las Vegas Strip offer stunning views and a great time. And Skyfall, just might be the best of the best!
Sip cocktails under the moonlight on the 64th floor of the W Las Vegas (formerly The Delano). This sleek rooftop spot offers sweeping views of the city, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Enjoy handcrafted drinks and laid-back vibes as a DJ sets the tone with mellow beats every Friday and Saturday from 9 PM to midnight. It’s the perfect high-rise retreat from the everyday hustle.
29. Experience the Bellagio Fountains
OK so this is NOT a hidden gem that only locals know about.
But, the Bellagio Fountains are one of Las Vegas’s most iconic attractions, featuring spectacular water shows choreographed to music every 30 minutes in the afternoons and every 15 minutes at night.
So you should see it at least once!
This stunning display of water, light, and sound draws crowds day and night, offering a mesmerizing experience that perfectly captures the magic of Vegas. The best part? It’s completely free to enjoy from the sidewalk along the Strip.
30. Explore the Clark County Wetlands Park
Clark County Wetlands Park is a hidden gem in Las Vegas and spans almost 3,000 acres.
It offers beautiful trails and a chance to see local wildlife, like herons and other birds. Take a break from the casino floor and enjoy a peaceful stroll in nature.
31. Visit Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (formerly Hard Rock Hotel)
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Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, formerly the legendary Hard Rock Hotel, offers a unique boutique experience off the Strip.
This reimagined property maintains its rock ‘n’ roll spirit while providing a more intimate Vegas experience.
Meanwhile, the new Hard Rock Hotel is currently under construction, transforming the former Mirage Hotel & Casino and set to open in 2027, promising to bring the iconic brand back to the Strip with a fresh perspective.
Inside Virgin Hotel, as was the case with the old Hard Rock, you’ll find one of the best Nobu Restaurant locations in the country! And it’s the only one of the 3 locations in Vegas to be awarded a Michelin star.
Having just eaten there, I can assure you that star was well-deserved! Go at happy hour (and make sure to request happy hour seating so you get the happy hour menu). You’ll find amazing deals on some of the best sushi in the country!
32. Discover the Las Vegas Strip’s Art Installations
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The Las Vegas Strip is a canvas of vibrant art and stunning installations.
From the iconic neon signs that tell the history of Vegas to immersive experiences like Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart and the entire Area15 complex, there’s so much to see.
Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with the giant letters at the LINQ Promenade, a great spot for first-time Vegas visitors or locals!
CLICK HERE to get cheap tickets to Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart at Area15 on Expedia!
33. Discover the Las Vegas Pinball Hall of Fame
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The Las Vegas Pinball Hall of Fame is a hidden gem that every local loves. With rows and rows of vintage pinball machines, it’s a great place to relive some classic gaming moments.
While the pinball machines do require coins to play, entry is free, making it one of the best free things to do in fabulous Las Vegas!
34. Attend a Local Sports Event
Las Vegas is home to some exciting professional sports teams, making it a great place to catch a game. Whether you’re cheering on the Golden Knights at the T-Mobile Arena, or the Raiders in Allegiant Stadium, the energy is electric.
Being a former Oakland resident, I’m still shocked that the Raiders are now in Vegas.
Enjoying a local sports event is one of the best things to do, especially for first-time visitors looking to create an unforgettable memory.
35. Explore the Las Vegas Strip’s Unique Architecture
The Las Vegas Strip is a great place to take in some wild architecture.
From the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas to the towering Statue of Liberty at the New York-New York Hotel, each spot tells a story.
Don’t miss the neon signs that light up the night and capture the essence of Las Vegas history!
CLICK HERE to do a guided walking tour of the Las Vegas strip on Expedia!
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas offers so much more than just casinos and tourist traps. These 35 local favorites show the real character of Sin City beyond the flashy headlines.
From the peaceful trails at Red Rock Canyon to the underground speakeasy at The Mob Museum, you’ve discovered experiences that most visitors never find. The city’s true personality emerges when you venture off the beaten path.
Some of these spots cost nothing, like watching the Bellagio Fountains or exploring the Neon Museum. Others, like Cirque du Soleil’s Mystรจre or the Waldorf Astoria Spa, offer luxury experiences worth the splurge.
The best part about following local recommendations is avoiding the crowds that flock to obvious attractions. You’ll have more authentic experiences and often better value for your money.
Next time someone asks what makes Vegas special, you’ll have real answers. It’s not just about gambling and shows – it’s about finding hidden gems in an unexpected desert oasis.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’ve been dozens of times, these local secrets will help you see Las Vegas through completely different eyes. Welcome to the real Vegas!
Planning a trip to Vegas and aren’t sure where to stay or which airline to fly?
Let Expedia’s package deals take all the hassle, guess-work, scams, and terrible experiences out of the way!
With Expedia, you can stay at amazing places like (my favorite) The Cosmopolitan for under $250/night!
CLICK HERE to see all the best Vegas package deals on Expedia!
Photos which require attribution: Springs Preserve Las Vegas, NV by Renee Grayson is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license, The Fremont Street Experience. Las Vegas. by Bernard Spragg. NZ is licensed under Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication and modified to add a zip liner, Blue Man1 (SP) 2009 Brazil by Galeria de Lรฉo Pinheiro – Picasa is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license, Neon Museum Las Vegas walkway by APK is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license, The Mob Museum -2022 (3) by Alberto-g-rovi is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license, The Venetian Gondola rides by Hardscarf is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license, Biggest Pool In Las Vegas Mandalay Bay (125419293) by the Archive Team is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license, Downtown Container Park – Downtown – Las Vegas, NV (12427967515) by Tomรกs Del Coro is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license, Springs Preserve Botanical Garden (37906871344) by Renee Grayson is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license, Hoover Dam, 02 by author: Adam Kliczek, http://memoriesstay.com, and is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license, The Writers’ Block Bookstore in Las Vegas, Nevada 02, Bea Phi is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license, Bellagio Fountains at night by Photographersnature is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license, Lake Mead, Nevada LCCN2011630280 by Carol M. Highsmith is licensed under no known copyright restrictions and was cropped and color-adjusted, The Las Vegas Wash and the Clark County Wetlands at Sunrise by Renee Grayson is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license, Allegiant Stadium Street View on Super Bowl LVIII by U.S. Customs and Border Protection is licensed under public domain, View from the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Balcony of the Las Vegas Strip December 2021 by Loganfrick is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license
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