The glittering neon lights of Las Vegas beckon travellers from afar to an oasis of entertainment in the Mojave Desert, with dazzling stage shows, glamorous casinos and restaurants headed by celebrity chefs.
The neon-lit Las Vegas Stripis lined with opulent casino hotels and larger-than-life attractions. Stroll among fun-loving visitors to admire iconic sights such as the dancing jets of the Fountains of Bellagio. Shop for souvenirs and see a different live entertainment show every night of the week.
When you visit Las Vegas, natural wonders are an easy day trip away, including the Grand Canyon National Park. Whether you’re hiking, trying your luck at a casino or dancing till dawn, Las Vegas is a recreational playground that’s easy to fall in love with.
Things to do in Las Vegas
Soar high over Las Vegas Boulevard with desert landscape views on the High Roller, North America’s highest observation wheel. It’s located near the shopping and dining hub of LINQ Promenade. Take a gondola ride between shopping for luxury brands at The Venetian Resort, where bridges and canals weave around the Grand Canal ShoppesOpens in a new window. At the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, admire revolving exhibitions of photography, painting and sculpture.
In Downtown Las Vegas, explore the pedestrian-only entertainment district called Fremont Street ExperienceOpens in a new window. Ride the Slotzilla Zipline and stay after dark for the Viva Vision light show. You’ll step back in time at the Neon Museum, with a collection of vintage neon signs from the casinos of old. History continues at the Mob MuseumOpens in a new window, which features an underground speakeasy and distillery.
Outdoor activities in Las Vegas
Just outside the city limits of Las Vegas, outdoor attractions are easy to reach on tours or road trips. Hike through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and discover the red sandstone formations of Valley of Fire State Park. Get your camera ready for a guided tour of Hoover Dam. A walk across the top of the dam offers close-up views of the Colorado River.
Many tours stop at the dam and Joshua Tree forests on the way to the Grand Canyon National Park. Visit the Grand Canyon West Rim for Eagle Point and the incredible Grand Canyon Skywalk. South Rim tours include visits to the Grand Canyon Visitor Centre for IMAX theatre shows and spectacular photos at Mather Point.
Dining and nightlife in Las Vegas
Step out of elaborate hotel rooms and into all-you-can-eat buffets along Las Vegas Boulevard. From Caesars Palace to the MGM Grand and the Luxor Hotel and Casino, fine dining restaurants deliver scrumptious menus from celebrity chefs. If you’re craving a pizza or a quick snack with the kids, you’re never far from your favourite takeaway foods. Downtown Container Park, with a playground and live entertainment amid shops and restaurants, is a family-friendly dining and nightlife choice.
As for entertainment after dark, you’re spoilt for choice in one of the world’s most exciting nightlife destinations. Book tickets for a musical at the Smith Centre for the Performing Arts and see the high-flying acrobats of Cirque du Soleil at a range of hotels. Check schedules for performances by renowned bands, singers and magicians across the city.
Along with the lights and music of the Bellagio Water Show, watch The Mirage Volcano erupt and see the Paris Las Vegas light show. After a stage extravaganza at The Colosseum Caesars Palace or the MGM Grand Garden Arena, keep the party going at buzzing nightclubs with multiple levels and top DJs spinning dance tunes.
Getting around Las Vegas
Fly into Harry Reid International Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive from hotels on Las Vegas Boulevard. Airport shuttles, taxis, buses and rental cars are available at the airport. Once you arrive, walk to many attractions on foot along the pedestrian-friendly Strip from hotels that feature casinos and restaurants.
Hop on the Las Vegas Monorail to travel between casinos or join the Hop-on, Hop-off Las Vegas Big Bus Tour to see the landmarks from the open-air top deck. The Deuce and the Downtown Express are buses that connect you with attractions on the Strip and to Downtown. For something special to remember your trip by, take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon or to see the city lights by night.
