Welcome to Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour of the Strip meet the beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. While the city is known for its extravagant shows and vibrant nightlife, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy!
From art and nature to quirky attractions and cultural experiences, Las Vegas offers something for everyone. Even those on a tight budget! Get ready to explore the best of Sin City without breaking the bank with my list of 21 free things to do in Las Vegas!
The Barrick Museum of Art
Dive into the art scene of Las Vegas at The Barrick Museum of Art, located on the campus of the University of Nevada. This contemporary art museum showcases a diverse range of exhibitions. It includes works by local artists as well as pieces from around the world. From paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations, there’s always something new and exciting to discover at this hidden gem.
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Step into a world of natural beauty at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and whimsical sculptures. Each season brings a new themed display, from colorful spring blooms to festive holiday arrangements, making it a must-visit destination year-round.
Wynn Botanical Gardens
Experience the tranquility of nature at the Wynn Botanical Gardens, a hidden oasis located within the luxurious Wynn Las Vegas resort. Wander through winding pathways lined with exotic plants, cascading waterfalls, and serene ponds, all meticulously curated to create a sense of serenity amidst the bustling energy of the Strip.
Seven Magic Mountains
Venture beyond the city limits to discover the Seven Magic Mountains, a striking art installation located in the desert south of Las Vegas. Created by renowned artist Ugo Rondinone, these towering stacks of brightly coloured boulders offer a surreal and mesmerising contrast to the surrounding landscape. They’re a favourite spot for photographers and art enthusiasts alike.
The Aquarium at Silverton Casino Hotel:
Immerse yourself in an underwater wonderland at The Aquarium at Silverton Casino Hotel. Watch over 4,000 tropical fish, stingrays, and sharks. Watch as colourful marine life gracefully glides through the water, or stop by during feeding times to see the animals up close and learn more about their habitats and behaviours.
Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
Escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip and find peace and tranquility at the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat. Located at the Flamingo Las Vegas hotel, this lush oasis is home to a variety of exotic birds, including flamingos, swans, and ducks. There’s also vibrant fish and lush vegetation. Take a stroll around the habitat’s winding pathways.
Hand of Faith at the Golden Nugget
Marvel at one of the world’s largest gold nuggets at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Known as the “Hand of Faith,” this massive 61-pound nugget was discovered in Australia in 1980. It is now proudly displayed in the hotel’s lobby for visitors to admire free of charge.
World’s Largest Chocolate Fountain at Bellagio
The Bellagio’s renowned chocolate fountain is certified by the Guinness World Records as the largest chocolate fountain in the world. Standing at an impressive 27 feet tall, this cascading fountain delights visitors with a mesmerizing display of flowing chocolate.
Pinball Hall of Fame
Step back in time at the Pinball Hall of Fame, a nostalgic tribute to the classic arcade game beloved by generations. Located just off the Strip, this nonprofit museum houses over 200 vintage pinball machines and arcade games, all meticulously restored and available for play. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a novice player, a visit to this retro arcade is sure to be a fun and memorable experience.
Fine Art Collection at Aria
Discover an impressive collection of contemporary art at the Aria Resort & Casino, where you’ll find works by acclaimed artists such as Maya Lin, Jenny Holzer, and Claes Oldenburg. From large-scale sculptures to immersive installations, the Aria’s fine art collection adds a touch of sophistication and culture.
Centennial Murals
Take a stroll through downtown Las Vegas and admire the vibrant Centennial Murals, a series of large-scale artworks celebrating the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Created by local artists and community members, these colorful murals depict scenes from Las Vegas’ past and present. They offer a unique glimpse into the city’s evolution over the years.
Ethel M Chocolates Factory Tour
Treat your taste buds to a behind-the-scenes tour of the Ethel M Chocolates Factory, where you can watch master chocolatiers at work and learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. Sample delicious handcrafted chocolates along the way, and don’t forget to explore the adjacent botanical cactus garden, home to over 300 species of desert plants.
Area 15
Immerse yourself in a surreal world of art, technology, and interactive experiences at Area 15. Area 15 is an innovative entertainment complex located just minutes from the Strip. From immersive art installations and virtual reality experiences to cutting-edge dining and nightlife venues, Area 15 offers something for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination for curious minds and adventurous spirits alike.
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
No trip to Las Vegas would be complete without a visit to the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. Located at the southern end of the Strip, this iconic landmark has been welcoming visitors to the city since 1959. It remains a beloved symbol of Las Vegas’ vibrant spirit and enduring allure. Snap a selfie against the backdrop of this iconic sign, and take home a memento of your unforgettable Vegas adventure.
Bellagio Fountains
No visit to Las Vegas is complete without experiencing the mesmerising choreography of the Bellagio Fountains. Situated in front of the iconic Bellagio Hotel & Casino, these fountains come alive with a symphony of water, music, and light. They’re truly captivating with their graceful movements and breathtaking displays. Whether you catch a daytime performance set to classic tunes or witness the fountains shimmering under the night sky, the Bellagio Fountains never fail to delight.
Fall of Atlantis Fountain Show at Caesars Palace
Step into the mythical world of ancient Atlantis at the Fall of Atlantis Fountain Show. This captivating spectacle unfolds before your eyes as animatronic figures, special effects, and a 50,000-gallon aquarium bring the legendary tale of Atlantis to life. Watch as gods and goddesses battle for control of the mythical city, accompanied by dramatic music and stunning visual effects.
Lake of Dreams at the Wynn
Prepare to be enchanted by the the Lake of Dreams, nestled within the lush landscape of the Wynn. As night falls, this tranquil oasis comes alive with a mesmerizing multimedia show featuring music, lights, and puppetry, all set against the backdrop of a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery. The Lake of Dreams offers a truly unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave you spellbound.
Concerts at the Fremont Street Experience
Get ready to rock out under the dazzling lights of the Fremont Street Experience, where free concerts and live performances take center stage every night. From tribute bands paying homage to music legends to up-and-coming artists showcasing their talents, there’s always something exciting happening on the stages scattered throughout this iconic pedestrian mall. So grab a drink, find a spot among the crowds, and get ready to dance the night away to the electrifying sounds of live music in the heart of downtown Las Vegas.
The Dirty 12:30 Comedy Show at the South Point Hotel
For a night of laughter and entertainment, look no further than The Dirty 12:30 Comedy Show at the South Point Hotel. This late-night comedy extravaganza features a rotating lineup of hilarious stand-up comedians. With performances starting at—you guessed it—12:30 a.m., this adults-only show promises plenty of laughs and a good time long after the rest of the city has gone to bed.
Circus show at Circus Circus
Step right up and witness the magic of the circus come to life at Circus Circus, home to one of the last remaining free circus shows in Las Vegas. From acrobats and jugglers to clowns and aerialists, this family-friendly spectacle offers non-stop entertainment for audiences of all ages. So grab a seat under the big top and prepare to be amazed as performers defy gravity and dazzle with their feats of strength, agility, and skill in this timeless celebration of the circus arts.
Shelby Heritage Centre
Rev up your engines and take a journey through automotive history at the Shelby Heritage Centre. It’s located just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. This interactive museum pays homage to the legendary Carroll Shelby and his iconic Shelby Cobra sports car. There’s a stunning collection of vintage automobiles, memorabilia, and artefacts that tell the story of Shelby’s contributions to motorsports. A visit to the Shelby Heritage Centre is sure to ignite your passion for all things automotive.
From world-class art and breathtaking natural beauty to quirky attractions and cultural landmarks, Las Vegas offers a wealth of free activities that are sure to delight and inspire visitors of all ages. So whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or simply looking to explore the city beyond the bright lights of the Strip, be sure to add these must-visit destinations to your Las Vegas itinerary for an unforgettable experience that won’t cost you a dime.
