Wondering what to do in Vegas for an epic trip? Sin City is a place that every adult needs in their life, just to let loose and have some fun.
Full of luxurious casinos, resort-style pools, and extravagant nightlife, there are plenty of things that you can add to your Las Vegas Bucket List. What was once just a desert has become a replication of cities around the world, from the gondolas at the Venetian, to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. Loud and vibrant, this place can be super overwhelming, but extremely exciting at the same time.
In this guide we're going to share what to do in Vegas for your most epically fun trip, as well as some other info for visiting. Here's all you need to know!
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Where is Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is located in the south west of the US, in the state of Nevada. Situated in the south corner of the state, it is also right by the borders of California and Arizona.
Las Vegas is located in Nevada, in the south west of the US.
How to Get to Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a small airport, but it does serve both domestic and international flights. McCarran Airport serves both small and large cities across the US, including Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.
As far as international flights, the cities that fly direct to Vegas include Ontario, Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Amsterdam, Belgrade, Zurich, Seoul, Frankfurt, London, and Panama City.
Flight Tip: Using Skyscanner you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for flying to Las Vegas.
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Las Vegas Airport to Las Vegas City
In order to get from the airport to the city, the only way is by private transportation. You can order an Uber, grab a taxi, or the safest way for an affordable ride is to book in advance.
Entry Requirements for the USA
Before traveling a trip anywhere, it's important to know the requirements for entering. Here is what you should keep in mind before booking your trip to Las Vegas.
Visa Requirements for USA
If you are from the US, you can go ahead and skip this part. But if you are from a country outside the US, it is important to know whether you need a visa or not. The US unfortunately isn't the most warm and welcoming when It comes to foreigners, so getting your visa (if you need one) is a must.
If you want more information about how to get a visa to visit the US, make sure to take a look beforehand.
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Local Adjustments for Visiting Las Vegas
When traveling somewhere new, there are things that may be different from where you are coming from. That's why we're here to help. Here are a few of the local adjustments to keep in mind while traveling to Las Vegas.
What Language is Spoken in Las Vegas?
The official language in the US is English. However, Vegas is a huge melting pot, so you can really find a wide variety of languages spoken!
Exchanging Money in Las Vegas
The currency used in the US is the USD. This may seem like a waste to write, but we include this on all of our guides, as we hope to have viewers from both near and far! Credit card is accepted nearly everywhere, and even local vendors may have Venmo, so you really won't need much cash when it comes to hotels, food, or shopping.
However, it's important to note that if you want to gamble you'll need cash. If you need to withdraw more money make sure not to do it inside the hotels with casinos. These ATMS don't charge a flat fee, but are usually a percentage, which will end up being much more expensive.
What Adapter Do I Need for Vegas?
The US uses three types of plugs. One has two rectangular prongs, one has two rectangular prongs with a third round pin, and one has two rectangular prongs, one being slightly larger than the other. The supply voltage in the US is 120V and 60Hz.
It is important to know that if you are coming from Europe, you won't only need to get an adapter, but an energy converter. This way your electronics will work properly.
Is it OK to Drink Las Vegas Tap Water?
As a local, I am so used to drinking water from the tap, that I seem to forget this as I travel. In addition, it is custom for restaurants to automatically bring water from the tap, or from a machine free of charge. Don't bother wasting your money on bottled water, as it's truly not necessary.
We suggest bringing a refillable water bottle to bring with you around the city, especially because it ca get super hot in Vegas!
Do You Need to Tip in Las Vegas?
The tipping culture in the US is very controversial, but very important for people to understand. Tipping is never something that is forced, although many restaurants will add a gratuity. It is super important to tip in the US, because if you don't tip your server, they are actually losing money. It may sound crazy, but servers rely 100% on tips for their salaries.
Servers also have to tip out the bus boys, bartenders, and the kitchen on a percentage of their sales. So if the bill is $100, and you leave nothing, the server will actually be losing around $5. We're not saying it's fair, but it is how it is unfortunately. The up side to this is you'll generally get outstanding service.
While people tend to tip a bit differently throughout the country, an average tip is 20% for good service, and 15 if it isn't so great. Tips can be added to a credit card payment, but are also more appreciated in cash.
Tipping in the Casinos of Las Vegas
Finally, it's important to tip your servers and dealers while in the casinos. While drinks are free, the only money that cocktail waitresses make are off of the tips that customers give them. Tip at least a dollar or two for each drink that you receive, and more if the server happens to be extra attentive.
What to Do in Vegas For an Epic Trip
Now that you're ready for your trip, it's time to share what to do in Vegas. Here are some of our favorite activities in Sin City.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #1: Go to a Pool Party
There's nothing quite like a pool party in Vegas. Each day there are different resorts that host parties, and they often are complete with big DJs, fancy lounge areas, and tons of people in their best swimwear.
Many pool parties you need to pay for entry, but some you can get in free with a guest list. Walk the strip and make sure to talk to the different promoters on the street to see if you can get on one of the guest lists.
Pool parties are one of the main things to do in Las Vegas.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #2: Gamble in a Large Casino
You cannot go to Vegas and not gamble! Even if it's not your thing, you can always just try on the penny machines for the thrill of having gambled a little bit.
The great part about gambling, is that drinks are free! (just don't forget to tip your server). If its your first time try roulette or the slot machines, and if your looking for something more try poker or craps.
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Another perk of gambling is that you can sign up for a loyalty program, which is at no cost to you, and you can rack up points while playing. The more you gamble, the more points you get, and the more perks you receive! If you only plan on coming to Vegas once, this may not apply to you, but if you plan on coming again you may even get a free stay for your next trip!
Make sure you take out plenty of cash before you go to a casino. The rates for ATM fees run on percentage rather than a fixed fee, and cost a lot!
Did you know that a lot of casinos that are found in Vegas are also found in Atlantic City, New Jersey? That means that you can use your points in either place! Just another reason to add gambling to your list of what to do in Vegas for an epic trip.
Gambling is something you must try while in Vegas!
What to Do in Vegas Activity #3: Enjoy the Nightlife
They don't call Vegas Sin City for nothing! This city never sleeps, and the clubs are open all night long. A lot of the clubs feature big DJs, so make sure you check out who will be there before you go.
If you end up in Vegas and want to go out but don't know where to go, just head to the strip and you will find plenty of promoters that will be looking to get people to come on their guest list, and this will be your ticket in for free!
So now you can can experience what to do in Vegas without having to pay the high price tag!
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What to Do in Vegas Activity #4: See a Show
This city is known for its amazing shows, so if you have time, its definitely something to add to your Las Vegas bucket list. Some of the best performers come to Vegas, and there's a reason!
Check out spectacles like Cirque de Solei, have a relaxed night at a comedy club, be amazed by a magic show, or head to the Wynn for its aquatic entertainment.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #5: Take a Gondola Ride at the Venetian
Now this may not exactly be the same as a real Italian rowing you down the Grand Canal in Venice, but it is definitely still a fun second option, and is a lot cheaper as well!
There are actually different canals in the Venetian, so you can choose to be outside in front of the casino and sailing under a bridge, or you can sail in the comfort of the air conditioning, by the Italian style shops and restaurants inside.
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The Venetian has gondola rides that are both inside and outside of the property.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #6: Watch the Fountain Show at the Bellagio
The fountain show at the Bellagio is definitely one for your Las Vegas Bucket List, and is totally free of charge! Watch the gigantic fountains soaring dramatically, all while synchronized with lights and music.
The Fountains of Bellagio is a daily show which is every 30 minutes from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, and every 15 minutes from 8:00 pm until midnight. On Weekends and holidays the shows start at noon every 30 minutes and change to every 15 minutes from 8:00 pm until midnight.
The Bellagio Fountain show is a must for your Vegas bucket list.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #7: View the Volcano Show
Another great spectacle that happens every night is right over at the Mirage. Head to the front around 8 pm and you'll get to witness the volcano erupting! There is a full show with lights and music, and is completely free of charge to check out whether you are a guest or not.
Every night the volcano erupts in front of the the Mirage.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #8: Sit at the Top of the Eiffel Tower
Did you know that there is also a mini version of the Eiffel Tower in Vegas? Now of course it can not top the original, but it is definitely still worth checking out. Inside there is a casino and hotel, and up at the top there is a large lounge area with bar, and sometimes live music and dancing.
Visiting the Eifeel Tower is definitely one for the Vegas bucket list.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #9: Take a Picture in Front of the Las Vegas Sign
As soon as you land at the airport, you are welcomed with a giant "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign. It is without a doubt one of the most photographed spots, but there is actually also a second one that is located right on the strip.
If you're looking for what to do in Vegas that's iconic, then you have to visit the sign "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas".
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The "Welcome to Las Vegas Sign" has become even more popular now with Instagram, and is definitely worth stopping for a photo. It's important to note that the line can get pretty long here to take a photo, so make sure to bring some water and a fan to keep cool while waiting.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #10: Marvel at the 7 Magic Mountains
This is personally one of our favorites for what to do in Vegas' outskirts, as it has only recently become more popular. Located just 15 minutes outside the city, there are 7 displays of colorfully stacked boulders that are just off the side of the highway.
The bizarre art project was made by the renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. Hurry though! This colorful large-scale, public artwork is only scheduled to be around for a couple of years!
The 7 Magic Mountains are a colorful installation just outside the city of Vegas.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #11: Check Out the Flower Displays at the Bellagio
Another great thing to check out when at the Bellagio is its conservatory and botanical gardens, featuring a sky-lit atrium that hosts an array of beautiful floral displays.
The themes change 5 times a year, so even if you've already been, it is always worth checking out to witness the different atmospheres and designs created.
Why is this place also great? It's another one that is free of charge to be checked off on your Las Vegas Bucket List.
The Bellagio has the most beautiful displays to check out.
What to Do in Vegas Activity #12: Watch a Male Strip Show
Now we know we already mentioned watching shows, but this is something we can't help but recommend. Sure, strip clubs can be found anywhere, but a 'Chippendales' or 'male revue' show is one of the most fun things you can do (unless maybe you are a straight male).
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Unlike regular strips clubs, male strips clubs are completely harmless, and more of a show than a sleezy joint to watch people get naked. If you are going for a bachelorette or birthday party than this is definitely something to add to our Las Vegas Bucket List.
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My personal favorite is the "Thunder From Down Under Show" which exclusively features Australian dancers. This isn't a place for you to take out your dollar bills though. It is a professionally choreographed show, and perfect for any size group.
At the end of the show the dancers all come out and take a picture with the guest sign the crowds, and then all sign the card that it comes with. It's definitely a great way to finish off a super fun show!
What to Do in Vegas Activity #13: Cure Your Hangover
It's no secret that when in Vegas, the liquor tends to keep flowing. The older you get, the more real hangovers get. No one wants to miss out on the fun, especially on a short trip! Well now there's a cure.
Head to the Cosmopolitan for a truly unique experience: Hangover Therapy. Okay, fine, the technical term is actually "Vitamin Injections & IV Therapy", but that doesn't sound quite as fun.
You can cure your hangover with the 'recovery IV hangover drip', as well as get plenty of other health and wellness treatments such as anti-aging and energy-boosting treatments.
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What to Do in Vegas For Food & Drinks
I'm not going to lie- this city is definitely not my ideal place when it comes to dining. Everything is super overpriced, and it is full of chain restaurants. That's not to say that there aren't any good options though! The good thing is that Vegas has a huge variety of cuisines, and you can find great places if you're willing to splurge a bit.
For budget options that aren't terrible fast food chains, you can go to Inn 'n Out, which is a popular burger chain on the west coast. I also really enjoyed Jaburrito's, which has sushi burritos and is located right on the promenade.
For delicious Spanish food I also went with a friend to Julian Serrano. This trendy tapas spot is really great, and as far as Vegas pricing, it is pretty decent.
Jaburritos has amazing sushi burritos on the promenade.
Moving Around Las Vegas
If you're wondering what to do in Vegas for transportation, then not to worry. Renting a car is normally what we recommend when exploring new places, but Vegas is definitely not one of them. Almost everything in Las Vegas is located along the strip, which you can easily walk up and down to offer all that the city has to offer.
It can take quite a long time though to actually get from one end to the other. The good thing is that there are public buses that go up and down the strip, and are much more affordable than taking a taxi or Uber.
Another thing to note is that Vegas is pretty unique in its pedestrian setup. With its super wide highways and large hotels, crossing the street isn't quite as simple as having a crosswalk. Rather, the large hotels connect by having long bridges and escalators.
Vegas has large highways that are connected by bridges and large escalators.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
When staying in Vegas you'll definitely want to stay along the Strip. The outskirts of Vegas are actually quite sketchy, so getting an AirBnB outside the center isn't really recommended. This is the one time where we really recommend staying in one of the bigger hotels.
*Something important to note is that most hotels have resort fees. Please double check the fees so that you know the true total price that you'll end up paying!
Here are some of the top hotels that we recommend:
Take a look at the map below to explore other great hotels along the strip:
Is Las Vegas Safe?
Las Vegas is an interesting place, because one minute you can feel super safe walking around tipsy at night, and the next you could be walking around in broad daylight and find the sketchiest people. This city is made up of all kinds, so it's always good to be a bit cautious since you never know what kind of people you'll come by.
Street Gambling in Vegas
Make sure not to fall for the street gambling! It can seem super fun, and people are easily lured in (I can admit I was one of them once).
The reality is that the people orchestrating these games actually have other people involved who will "win" and make others interested in playing. That's when the dealers really trick tourists and end up taking all of their money. Don't let that be you!
Who to Trust and Who Not to Trust in Vegas
You'll also probably get plenty of people offering you drugs. We highly suggest staying away from this, as you never know what people are actually carrying.
On the other hand, you'll also have plenty of people coming up trying to get you on their guest list for clubs. While this may seem odd, it is actually completely normal and this city, and is a great way to get free into big clubs and special events.
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Other Things to Know About Visiting Las Vegas
Now you know what to do in Vegas, and how to make the most of your time. But we have a few more things to share! Here are a few other things to keep in mind when visiting La Vegas, Nevada.
The Best Time to Visit Las Vegas
Vegas is one of those places that is seriously always busy. It's definitely not a place to relax, nor is a place to escape the crowds. That being said, I personally love Vegas in the spring and fall. The weather is a bit more mild, and the crowds seem a little less trashy in my opinion.
Weather & Packing For a Trip to Las Vegas
If you're wondering what to do in Vegas for packing, then we're here to share exactly that.
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The most important thing to know is that Vegas is in a desert, so it gets extremely hot, and is very dry. Make sure to have plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing. We also suggest bringing some lotion to keep your skin hydrated with the super dry and hot air.
Swimwear is a must, and this is one of those places where you'll find that clothing varies quite a bit. People bring their most provocative clothing to Vegas, and anything really goes. So bring your highest heels, and your most risky outfits, because if it's one place you can get away with it without people staring, then this is it.
Packing List for Las Vegas:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- License/ID
- Cash
- Reusable Water Bottle (we use this water bottle from Cafago because it holds the temperature)
- Nice sandals
- Heels
- Bathing Suits
- Cover ups
- Clubbing Clothes/ Nice Dresses
- Flip flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
- Travel Adapter if you come from outside the US (we use Tessan travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)
Feel free to dress however you'd like in Vegas- whether it's a tiny swimsuit, or a long fancy dress- anything goes here!
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Vegas is such a great place to get away and just let out some energy. We have been multiple times and still haven't done everything on this list! I mean, it's hard when you find yourself partying from dusk til dawn, each and every day.
Most people go for a weekend, and that is plenty, as it is a very energy-draining environment. If you are planning on taking it down a notch with the drinks, or are intense like our once 21 year old-selves, you can spend even up to a week! (although we wouldn't really recommend it for most).
Traveling through the US and wanting to see some other great cities to check out? Take a look at the rest of our US Travel Guides.
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