Las Vegas is a vibrant city known for its glitz and glamor. Despite the reputation of being an expensive destination, there are plenty of free things to do in Las Vegas.
From world-renowned landmarks and attractions to live entertainment and shows, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities without spending a dime.
This article provides an overview of some of the best free activities in Las Vegas.
🗽 Iconic Landmarks and Attractions
🌲 Nature and Wildlife
🎭 Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
🛍️ Shopping and Exploration
🎈 Unique Experiences
🎶 Shows, Music, and Entertainment
Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
The iconic Welcome to Las Vegas Sign has become a quintessential symbol for the city. Its history dates back to the 1950s when artist Betty Willis was commissioned to design a sign to bring tourists to Las Vegas.
The design stands out with its bold lettering and vibrant colors, while its signature neon tubes illuminate the surroundings. Visitors are encouraged to follow the “Welcome Sign rules”, such as not standing or sitting on top of it for photographs.
It remains an enduring reminder of the city's unique atmosphere and culture.
Discover more must-see landmarks in Las Vegas here.
Fountains of Bellagio & Bellagio Fountain Show
The synchronized light and water show of the Fountains of Bellagio is one of the highlights of the Las Vegas Strip. Spanning 8 1/2 acres with 1,200 nozzles and 4,500 lights, the Bellagio Fountain's design was inspired by the Italian village of Bellagio.
The fountain is brought to life by a music and lights show that vary in duration and type. With its impressive design and dynamic fountain lighting, Las Vegas visitors can appreciate an awe-inspiring experience at the Bellagio Fountain Show.
The Volcano at the Mirage & the Mirage Volcano Show
Circus Fun Awaits You!
Why juggle plans when you can watch the pros? Discover amazing circus shows in Las Vegas Amazement guaranteed!
*Temporarily closed until December 8th, 2023.
As one of Sin City’s most beloved attractions, the Volcano at the Mirage is one of the city's must-see. The outdoor nightly shows feature live music and breathtaking views of the erupting volcano. Get there early for a good spot and enjoy the hourly firings, from 8pm to 11pm!
Visitors can also explore the nearby Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, enjoy the Bellagio Fountains or stop by Ethel M's Chocolate Factory for a sweet treat, making it an ideal area for memorable sights.
Fremont Street Experience
Just a few minutes away from The Strip is the Fremont Street Experience. Located downtown, it offers a wide range of daytime and nighttime activities as well as live street performers, multiple casinos, unconventional restaurants and intriguing art galleries.
There are also live music performances you can enjoy for free. The area is worth exploring as you can experience a sample of Las Vegas’ vibrant culture, without having to spend too much money.
Las Vegas’ skyline is made out of some of the most iconic and audacious buildings, like the covered Fremont Street, a testament to the architectural and engineering prowesses that were needed to build the city.
Nature and Wildlife
Day Trip to Hoover Dam and Hike Red Rock Canyon
A day trip to Hoover Dam or a hike through Red Rock Canyon are popular tourist activities near Las Vegas.
The Hoover Dam offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River, while the Red Rock Canyons provide an opportunity for wildlife spotting.
Afterwards, visitors can enjoy stargazing in the dark desert sky and a souvenir shopping spree in the nearby stores.
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens and the Wynn Botanical Gardens
Visitors to Las Vegas can enjoy free admission to the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens and the Wynn Botanical Gardens.
The Bellagio features stunning architecture, intricate sculptures, and a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Meanwhile, the gardens at The Wynn are known for their spectacular landscaping and innovative design.
Guests can take self-guided tours of both gardens to appreciate their beauty without breaking the bank. Plant diversity is an integral part of these botanical gardens, making them truly unique experiences in Las Vegas.
Flamingo Hotel’s Wildlife Habitat
The Wildlife Habitat is a popular destination for visitors to experience the natural beauty of exotic birds, fish, and turtles.
The habitat offers an insight into flamingos’ behavior and wildlife conservation, while also providing educational material on habitat protection and climate change.
With careful attention to nature preservation, this attraction provides an enjoyable chance to observe animals up close.
Seven Magic Mountains
Just outside Las Vegas, you can find Seven Magic Mountains. The open-air art installation consists of seven towers of stacked painted boulders. The vibrant colors and gravity-defying design make it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Conservation efforts are ongoing to preserve the environment around it, so visitors can appreciate the piece of art and learn about the environmental impacts associated with it.
Seven Magic Mountains provides a one-of-a-kind experience that can be enjoyed both day and night.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
Downtown Art Murals and the Arts Factory
Head to the city center for a visit to the Downtown Art Murals and the Arts Factory – a free art gallery experience and bigger-than-nature artwork, right on the buildings surrounding the Arts Factory. An ideal destination for those seeking creative inspiration and artistic expression, it features an array of stunning street art pieces to discover.
Visitors can enjoy the unique artwork displayed here and there while taking a stroll in the beautiful downtown Las Vegas and experience a refreshingly different form of art as they make their way around The Arts Factory.
Streetmosphere at the Grand Canal Shoppes
Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian offer a unique entertainment experience thanks to their troupe of Streetmosphere performers. Roaming street performers, celebrity impersonators, and themed window displays will delight visitors. A free attraction that provides an unforgettable experience awaits at The Venetian Las Vegas.
The architecture of the hotel is a charming sight, as are the venetian-style gondolas – now you know where the hotel’s name comes from!
Shopping and Exploration
The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace and Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian
The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace and Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian are two of the largest shopping malls in Las Vegas, offering a variety of retail stores, dining options, art installations, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Shopping enthusiasts can find bargains on luxury goods or gifts for friends and family. Dining options range from quick bites to upscale restaurants for those looking for a more complete experience.
With plenty of activities to indulge in, visitors will truly enjoy their time spent shopping around these iconic Las Vegas malls.
Downtown Container Park
Downtown Container Park is an eclectic outdoor shopping and entertainment center located in downtown Las Vegas. It offers a variety of unique attractions, shopping and dining options, as well as nightlife events and outdoor activities.
The park, made in part with upcycled shipping containers, encompasses restaurants, bars, retail stores, live music venues, art galleries, and creative play areas for visitors to explore. The park also organizes various cultural performances throughout the year, with no admission fee.
M&M's World, Hershey's Chocolate World, And Coca-Cola Store Las Vegas
Located right on The Strip, M&M's World, Hershey's Chocolate World, and Coca-Cola Store offer visitors a shopping and entertainment experience like no other. Each store features an array of unexpected flavors from each brand, themed souvenirs and personalized treats to bring back home.
Grab the opportunity to sample new and different flavors offered by M&M's, Hershey's, and Coca-Cola.
Ethel M Chocolates Factory & Cactus Garden Guided Tours
The drive to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Cactus Garden is a worthwhile one for anyone with a sweet tooth. Those interested in touring the factory, sampling chocolate, learning about Ethel M's history, or simply enjoying the prickly landscapes of the Cactus Garden, this is the place you don’t want to miss.
Visitors can get a unique insight into the world of chocolate with guided tours through the factory as well as free samples and a stroll through the beautiful garden.
Unique Experiences
Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame offers an uncommon sight for anyone unfamiliar with vintage arcades games. Pinball culture, tournament strategies, collectors corner, museum exhibits, and machine restoration are just some of the experiences visitors can partake in.
It’s an ideal destination for pinball connoisseurs looking to learn more about their passion or have a fun time playing on different machines from various eras. The museum has over 200 expertly-restored games for visitors to enjoy.
With its nostalgic atmosphere and diverse selection of classic games, it is no surprise the Pinball Hall of Fame remains one of the most popular attractions in Las Vegas.
Shelby Heritage Center
The Shelby Heritage Center is a museum with a mission of preserving the history and legacy of Carroll Shelby, an American automotive icon. It offers exhibits, guided tours, events, and more for visitors to enjoy.
The Shelby Heritage Center is home to many artifacts related to his life and work. Visitors can explore various interactive exhibits or follow a guided tour for the chance to learn about his achievements in the automotive industry. Special events are held to celebrate his accomplishments with activities open to all ages.
Gold & Silver Pawn Shop (Pawn Stars’ Shop)
The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, famously known as the setting of the reality television show “Pawn Stars”, is a Las Vegas attraction that has been in business since 1989.
It offers a unique window into pawn shop culture, with inventory ranging from antique collectibles to everyday items to jewelry – if you’re looking for a last-minute engagement ring, you should stop by! You might also bump into the famous cast of characters who work there.
Its long history includes decades of deals and rare one-of-a-kind items while maintaining strict rules and regulations for customers that made them TV-famous. For those looking to explore pawn-shop culture in Las Vegas, The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop is THE destination.
The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium
The Palazzo Waterfall Atrium is an easily accessible attraction on The Strip, featuring a stunning array of artful waterfalls and sculptures. The Atrium is the place to enjoy breathtaking views of its cascading waterfall surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere.
Shows, Music, and Entertainment
Dueling Pianos at Harrah's Casino
At Harrah's Casino, the Piano Bar is home to nightly shows featuring Dueling Pianos. The interactive entertainment encourages patrons to sing along with the performers. The show is free, but tips for the pianists are welcome.
The music selection ranges from classic rock to current pop hits and the delightful drink menu is there for those wanting to pair their musical experience to a cocktail or a nice bottle of wine.
Dueling Pianos at the Piano Bar offers an exciting and unique evening out in Las Vegas that won't break your budget.
The Mermaid Show at the Silverton Aquarium
On the lookout for fantastical creatures? Head to the Mermaid Show at the Silverton Aquarium for a unique underwater showcase. Get the chance to observe these mythical creatures' habits in an up-close and personal in the 117,000-gallon aquarium they inhabit.
Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace
If you’re headed North up The Strip, the Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace, a spectacular animated show, will be waiting for you. This free animatronics show provides visitors with a memorable and surprising experience at the heart of the hotel. .
Go Back in Time at the Golden Gate Casino
Opened to the public since 1906, the Golden Gate Casino is the oldest gambling institution in Vegas and is still as popular as ever. Not a gambler? That’s alright, you’ll be able to wander around and get some glimpses of the past. You can only imagine all that went down there in the last century. Inside the casino, you’ll be able to view a fountain that was added to the property back in 1909 and to see an original wall dating back to the first days of the hotel. If walls could talk, this one would have much to tell!
Fun fact: The first working phone in Nevada was installed in this establishment – The original phone number was simply “1.”
For more unique and lesser-known attractions in Las Vegas, explore these hidden gems.
One Last Thought
Las Vegas offers a variety of free or budget-friendly activities so your trip is as enjoyable as possible without spending too much money.
From nightlife entertainment to sightseeing tours, dining tips, and gambling alternatives, anyone can find something to do for free in this vibrant city.
The array of options guarantees visitors will have an unforgettable visit regardless of their budget. Those looking to explore the local culture or take part in night activities will find plenty to do here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Las Vegas is well known for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and entertainment. Questions often arise about the availability of free attractions in the city. Here are the most asked questions relating to free activities in Las Vegas.
Can You Visit Casinos Without Gambling?
Visitors to the Las Vegas Strip can experience the atmosphere of casinos without gambling. Gambling alternatives are available, such as free entertainment and a casino atmosphere. Responsible gaming is not only possible but also budget-friendly. By avoiding wagering money, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of a casino while still adhering to their budget.
With numerous options available for those looking for an exciting night out without risking their wallet, Las Vegas offers something for everyone regardless of spending habits.
What Are Some Family-Friendly Free Attractions in Las Vegas?
There are a lot of free Las Vegas attractions that are accessible and are family-friendly. Shopping options, free tours, cultural exploration, and nature walks can provide hours of fun for all ages.
Families can explore the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for free and enjoy free performances at The Fremont Street Experience or watch the Bellagio Fountains dance to music.
Nature lovers can observe local wildlife at the Springs Preserve or take a stroll through Downtown Container Park.
With so many free activities at hand, you can create lasting memories without spending any money.