10 Unforgettable Things To Do Near Las Vegas, Nevada

10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Las Vegas, Nevada (Beyond Just Gambling)

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, chances are you’re thinking about casinos, neon lights, and late nights on the Strip. And yes, that’s part of the magic. But there’s so much more to do in and around Las Vegas, especially if you want a mix of nightlife, food, and desert adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, these 10 things to do near Las Vegas in Clark County will help you plan a trip you’ll actually remember… even after the cocktails.

1. Stroll the Las Vegas Strip at Night

You can’t talk about Las Vegas without starting with the Las Vegas Strip. Even if you never place a single bet, just walking this 4-mile stretch is an experience. You’ll see:
  • Huge themed hotels like The Venetian, Paris, and New York-New York
  • Free street performers and live music
  • Endless neon lights and giant digital billboards
If you can, walk the Strip right after sunset. The lights come on, the air cools down (a little), and the whole place feels like a giant open-air show. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. The Strip looks smaller on the map than it feels under your feet.

2. Watch the Bellagio Fountains Dance

One of the best free things to do in Las Vegas is right in front of the Bellagio Hotel. The Bellagio Fountains put on a water show every 15–30 minutes, depending on the day and time. The fountains “dance” to music with powerful water jets shooting up to around 460 feet in the air. It’s simple, but it’s surprisingly moving. For a more romantic or chill vibe:
  • Catch a show after dark when the lights really pop
  • Stand near the middle rail for the best view
  • Grab a coffee or dessert and treat it like your own free front-row show
I still remember the first time I watched them — I planned to stay for one song and ended up watching three. It’s that easy to get hooked.

3. Explore the Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas

Looking for a different side of Vegas? Head to Downtown Las Vegas and check out the Fremont Street Experience. This pedestrian zone is covered by a massive LED canopy. At night, it turns into a full-blown light show with music playing overhead. You’ll also find:
  • Classic casinos with an old-school Vegas feel
  • Live bands on outdoor stages
  • Street artists, performers, and endless people-watching
If you like a little thrill, try the SlotZilla zip line and fly under the light show. It’s a great way to see the crowds from above and get your heart racing without leaving the city.

4. Take a Day Trip to the Grand Canyon (West Rim)

Yes, you can see the Grand Canyon on a Las Vegas trip. The West Rim of the Grand Canyon is about a 2–2.5 hour drive from Las Vegas, depending on traffic. Many tour companies pick you up from your hotel and handle all the driving, which is nice if you’re not used to desert roads. Highlights at the West Rim:
  • Skywalk Glass Bridge – a horseshoe-shaped glass platform hanging 4,000 feet above the canyon floor
  • Multiple viewpoints for sweeping photo ops
  • Optional helicopter or river tours (if you want to splurge)
If you’ve only seen photos of the Grand Canyon online, standing there in person feels almost unreal. It’s one of those “bucket list” experiences that fits easily into a Las Vegas itinerary.

5. Hike Through Red Rock Canyon

If you’re craving nature after a night out, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must. It’s only about 30 minutes west of the Strip, but it feels like another planet. You’ll find:
  • A 13-mile scenic loop drive with lookout points
  • Easy walks and more serious hiking trails
  • Reddish rock formations that glow at sunrise and sunset
Some trails are short and beginner-friendly, so you don’t need to be a hardcore hiker. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen — even in cooler months, the desert sun can sneak up on you. Tip: If you’re visiting in the busy season, check if reservations are required for the scenic drive. It’s a popular local escape, not just a tourist stop.

6. Visit the Neon Museum (Where Old Vegas Signs Go to Retire)

Ever wonder what happens to old Vegas signs when the hotels remodel or close? Many of them end up at the Neon Museum. This outdoor museum, sometimes called the “Neon Boneyard,” is filled with historic Las Vegas signs, some restored and some left in their faded glory. Walking through it feels like a stroll through Vegas history. Why it’s worth your time:
  • Awesome photo spots – especially around sunset
  • Guided tours that share fun stories about old casinos and hotels
  • A quick visit – you can see a lot in about an hour
If you’re into photography, this place is a dream. Even if you’re not, it’s a fun and different way to experience the city’s past.

7. See the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Just about 35–45 minutes from Las Vegas, on the Nevada–Arizona border, you’ll find the impressive Hoover Dam and the huge blue waters of Lake Mead. The Hoover Dam is one of the great engineering landmarks in the U.S., and standing on top of it gives you a real sense of how massive it is. What you can do:
  • Walk across the top of the dam and take in the views
  • Join a tour to see inside and learn how it was built
  • Stop at the nearby Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for an incredible overlook
You can also spend time around Lake Mead boating, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. It’s a nice contrast to the heat and noise of the Strip.

8. Eat Your Way Through Vegas: Buffets, Street Eats, and Celebrity Chefs

Las Vegas has quietly become one of the best food cities in the USA. You can keep it simple or go all-out. Some fun options:
  • All-you-can-eat buffets with everything from sushi to prime rib
  • Celebrity chef restaurants by Gordon Ramsay, Giada De Laurentiis, Bobby Flay, and more
  • Casual food halls with tacos, burgers, noodles, and dessert spots
One of the most “Vegas” things you can do is plan your day around meals:
  • Late breakfast buffet
  • Snack on the go while exploring the Strip
  • Dinner with a view, maybe at a rooftop or Strip-facing restaurant
If you’re trying to keep costs down, look for lunch specials or off-Strip spots. Locals know there’s great food in regular neighborhoods too, not just in the resorts.

9. Catch a Las Vegas Show or Live Performance

When it comes to things to do at night in Las Vegas, shows are right up there with casinos. Options include:
  • Cirque du Soleil shows with acrobatics, music, and huge sets
  • Comedy shows featuring big-name stand-up comics and rising stars
  • Magic shows that range from family-friendly to edgy
  • Concerts and residencies by major artists
Seeing a live show can be the highlight of your trip, especially if you’re not into gambling. Tickets can sell out fast for popular performers, so it’s smart to book ahead when you can.

10. Escape to Valley of Fire State Park

If you’re willing to drive about an hour northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most stunning spots in Nevada. The park is known for:
  • Bright red rock formations that look like they’re on fire at sunset
  • Short hiking trails to natural arches and viewpoints
  • Ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock
The scenery here feels wild and remote, but the trails are pretty approachable. Even a few quick stops along the main road will give you incredible photos and memories. Tip: Bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest part of the day in summer. The desert heat can be intense, even for short walks.

Final Thoughts: Las Vegas Is More Than Just Casinos

Las Vegas is one of those places that can be whatever you want it to be:
  • A nightlife and casino playground
  • A home base for day trips to the desert and canyons
  • A foodie escape with endless restaurants and bars
  • A mix of all of the above
From Red Rock Canyon and the Grand Canyon West Rim to Fremont Street and the Neon Museum, there are plenty of things to do in and around Las Vegas beyond the gaming tables.

Share Your Vegas Plans (or Secrets!)

Have you been to Las Vegas before?
  • Which spot was your favorite?
  • Are you more into the Strip, downtown, or the outdoor adventures?
Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a Vegas trip — it might just help them discover a whole new side of the city.

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