15 of the Top Things To Do in Las Vegas Per Viator Travelers
Las Vegas is a city where the over-the-top meets the unexpected, offering no shortage of things to do and see. But finding experiences that’ll stay with you long after the neon lights of the Strip fade is key to making the most of your visit. Luckily, Vegas delivers—and there’s something for every traveler: You can soar over the city in a helicopter, explore the Hoover Dam, or hike through Red Rock Canyon.
Check out 15 of the best things to do in Las Vegas—all tried and tested by fellow travelers—to make the most of your time in this electrifying city where the excitement never stops.
1. Soar over the Las Vegas Strip on a night flight
What?: Lined with Sin City’s top hotels and casinos, the Strip is the ultimate adult playground—and seeing it from above is one of the best Las Vegas activities. A helicopter night flight takes you over the city’s most famous landmarks, from the Fountains of Bellagio to the neon glow of the Fremont Street Experience, all while your pilot shares insider stories and fun facts.
When?: The Strip shines brightest after sunset. Weekends fill up fast, so book ahead for a front-row seat to the neon magic.
What one reviewer said: “Best time of our lives! View was worth every penny. Would recommend everyone try this at least once.” Stephen_O, February 2025
2. Marvel at the Hoover Dam
What?: The Hoover Dam is a testament to engineering innovation: The famous structure tamed the Colorado River and powered the growth of the Southwest, so it’s no wonder it’s a staple of Las Vegas travel guides. On a guided VIP tour, you’ll go deep inside to see its massive generators, walk across the top and take in its panoramic views, and stop by the bypass bridge to snap photos.
When?: The Hoover Dam is open daily from morning to late afternoon. It’s a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, and tours tend to leave early so you can make the most of your time.
What one reviewer said: “Tour guide was excellent, funny, and made the whole experience a fun family-style trip. He was very informative about all aspects of the dam and the surrounding areas.” Daniel_S, March 2025
3. Discover the Fremont Street Experience
What?: The Fremont Street Experience is a massive outdoor mall and the heart of vintage Vegas. On this walking tour, dive into the district’s legendary past—from mob ties to the creation of the world’s largest video screen canopy. Plus, Pawn Stars fans can add on a visit to the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop featured in the show.
When?: Fremont Street is buzzing all day, but by evening it’s lit up in neon with the light show overhead.
What one reviewer said: “This is a very interesting tour. You could tell that our tour guide, Kelly, knew his stuff and was very interested in the history of Vegas. It was very neat to see all of old Vegas and learn about it.” Ashley_L, March 2025
4. Explore the Mojave Desert on an ATV
What?: Home to Death Valley National Park, the Mojave Desert is a vast, rugged landscape located just outside of Las Vegas. Hop on an ATV for a guided tour across the stunning desert terrain for an exhilarating ride across the dunes, canyons, and dry lake beds. It's a must for thrillseekers.
When?: For the best experience, ride in the cooler months—fall through spring—and opt for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the most intense heat of the day.
What one reviewer said: “Had an amazing time! The drive was not bad at all. Our guide made sure he went over all rules to make sure we all safe. I would definitely go on this and I highly recommend it too!” Gracie_L, March 2025
5. Experience the Downtown Las Vegas food scene
What?: While the Vegas Strip is packed with Michelin-star chefs, downtown Las Vegas is where you’ll find the real taste of the city. Join a food tour to experience a more authentic side of the city as you sample a mix of local favorites, hidden gems, and innovative street food.
When?: Downtown is always lively and most restaurants stay open late. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday afternoon.
What one reviewer said: “Great food. Fun history. Perfect afternoon in downtown Las Vegas. Jim our tour guide was a wealth of knowledge.” Greg_L, January 2025
6. Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon Skywalk
What?: The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass-bottomed, horseshoe-shaped bridge that extends 70 feet (20 meters) above one of the US’ most famous landscapes—perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. On this full-day tour, you’ll explore the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, walk the Skywalk for unbeatable views, and visit the Hoover Dam.
When?: The Grand Canyon Skywalk is typically open daily from morning to early evening, although hours can change with the season. Peak season is June through August, so plan accordingly to avoid the crowds.
What one reviewer said: “Great experience, beautiful views, and great tour guide. Eban was very personable, he was knowledgeable and enjoyed his work. Would highly recommend this tour.” David_R, March 2025
7. Explore the Mob Museum
What?: Dive into the gritty history of organized crime at The Mob Museum, which tells the story of mobsters, law enforcement, and their infamous battles. Check out exhibits on figures such as Al Capone to discover how the mob shaped Vegas. Skip the lines by booking your admission ticket ahead.
When?: The museum is open daily from morning to late evening, with extended hours on weekends. It's best to go early in the day for a quieter experience.
What one reviewer said: “It was a great overall experience. Frank's talk about how someone "escaped" the mob was so interesting. The interactive experiences were great as well. Would highly recommend, but make sure you have enough time to take it all in.” Michele_N, March 2025
8. Check out a show at Planet Hollywood
What?: Las Vegas is known for its top-tier live performances and The Mentalist at Planet Hollywood is no exception. Watch as the world-class mentalist Gerry McCambridge blends mind-bending tricks and sharp wit for a show full of surprises. Planet Hollywood is in the heart of the Strip, so it’s easy to combine a trip here with some Las Vegas sightseeing.
When?: As a rule, The Mentalist performs nightly except for Wednesdays, with shows typically starting at 7pm.
What one reviewer said: “Engaged the entire audience. Small enough venue where all seats are good seats. Very entertaining show, worth seeing.” Don_M, January 2025
9. Get behind the wheel at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway
What?: Thrillseekers and motorsport fans will love Las Vegas Motor Speedway, home to major events including the Pennzoil 400. But why just watch when you can get behind the wheel? Trade the grandstands for the driver’s seat with a car driving experience—one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Vegas.
When?: Las Vegas Motor Speedway car driving experiences are available daily at a variety of times, starting from early morning through to mid-afternoon. Experiences vary by car type, which you can choose.
What one reviewer said: “From the time I walked in the door, the staff (Deven) was friendly and helpful; Taylor (my instructor) was totally professional in his job and a nice guy, made the whole day a pleasure. Driving the Corvette was a scream.” Victor_C, October 2024
10. Discover Downtown Container Park
What?: The funky alternative to the luxury malls on the Strip, Downtown Container Park is an outdoor shopping mall built from old shipping containers. With unique boutiques, eateries, and a stage for live events, it’s a must-see place in Las Vegas. Hop on a Segway tour for a fun way to explore the area.
When?: Downtown Container Park is open daily from morning to late evening, with slightly later opening hours on Fridays and Saturdays. It has plenty of eateries on-site, so plan your trip with time for a meal or drinks.
What one reviewer said: “Thomas was a brilliant guide and showed us parts of downtown we would never have seen. He was really informative, friendly, and knew the area like the back of his hand.” Helen_L, December 2024
11. Enjoy panoramic views of Las Vegas
What?: The STRAT Tower is the tallest observation deck in the US, offering unbeatable panoramic views of top Las Vegas landmarks. Grab a drink at the Air Bar or simply take in the sights from 1,149 feet (350 meters) up. Book your ticket in advance for whenever works best with your plans.
When?: The Strat Tower is open daily from morning to late night. You can enjoy the best views at sunset, when the Strip lights up.
What one reviewer said: “Amazing [top-of-the-world] views of Las Vegas. Best thing about this ticket is you can go during the day and the night. It is for the entire day.” Pam_C, February 2025
12. Hike Red Rock Canyon
What?: Just 17 miles (27 kilometers) west of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers almost 200,000 acres (80,937 hectares) of stunning desert landscape, with narrow canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and vibrant red cliffs. Join a hiking tour through stunning trails to burn off that Vegas indulgence, all while your local guide shares insight about the area.
When?: The canyon is open year-round with hours varying by season. If you're visiting in the summer, come early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday scorching heat.
What one reviewer said: “So fun! Our guide was super helpful and recommended one out of three hiking trail options. We were so happy with the suggestion and are glad we took the opportunity to get out of the city for some fresh air and views!” Emma_H, March 2025
13. Take a ride on the High Roller Observatory Wheel
What?: In true Vegas fashion, the High Roller Observation Wheel is far from your average carnival ride; the 550-foot (167-meter) rotating wheel at the LINQ Promenade is a great addition to any Las Vegas itinerary. Book your tickets in advance to hop in one of the glass-enclosed pods for a 30-minute ride accompanied by music, video displays, LED lights, and fantastic city views from above.
When?: The High Roller Observation Wheel is open daily from late morning to late night. Ride at sunset or after dark to see the Strip fully illuminated.
What one reviewer said: “Great view with some fun historical facts about Las Vegas playing on a video monitor inside of the capsule. We went during the day, but we’ll probably go back to see the city at night.” Patricia_H, March 2025
14. Take in the Bellagio Fountains
What?: The Fountains of Bellagio are a must-see Vegas spectacle, where water, music, and lights come together in a dazzling display. In front of the Bellagio Hotel, the fountains dance to an ever-changing playlist, so no two shows are the same. For a unique experience, cruise by in an open-top cart as you check off many other Las Vegas tourist spots.
When?: The fountain shows run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes at night.
What one reviewer said: “Something different to experience. Love the vibe of the ride. Great scenery, cool music, and the best driver. Loved everything.” Stanley_K, March 2025
15. Catch a live Cirque du Soleil performance in Las Vegas
What?: Las Vegas isn’t just about casinos and nightlife—it’s also a top destination for world-class entertainment, thanks in part to Cirque du Soleil. With multiple resident shows, Cirque brings acrobatics, stunning visuals, and immersive storytelling to Vegas stages. There’s a Cirque show for every visitor, whether it’s the aquatic wonder of O or the high-energy stunts of Mad Apple.
When?: The O shows run evening performances from Wednesday to Sunday at the Bellagio; book ahead as weekends sell out fast. If you’re hoping to attend other Cirque du Soleil Vegas shows, check each schedule for times.
What one reviewer said: “The best show we’ve seen. Enthralling spectacular. Absolutely breathtaking. Will recommend to anyone going to Vegas.” Andrea_t, February 2025
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