Top Las Vegas Shows & Performances

Las Vegas is famous for its entertainment, and there’s no shortage of shows you can see while you’re in the city. Some of the Las Vegas shows with the best ratings from previous travelers are:

• MJ Live at the Sahara Hotel and Casino
• Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino
• Hypnosis Unleashed Starring Kevin Lepine
• Donny Osmond at Harrahs Hotel and Casino Las Vegas
• All Motown starring The Duchesses of Motown in Las Vegas

Magic, illusion, and sleight-of-hand shows are prevalent in Las Vegas, with dozens to choose from. Some of the best-rated by previous travelers are:

• The Mentalist at Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino
• Paranormal – The Mindreading Magic Show at Horseshoe Las Vegas
• Mike Hammer Comedy Magic Show
• Masters of Magic Show at Las Vegas Magic Theater
• Mat Franco Magic Reinvented Nightly at the LINQ Hotel and Casino

Ticket prices for Las Vegas shows vary considerably. You can go to a 1-hour comedy and magic show for less than US$20, experience a Cirque du Soleil production for around US$150, or book a private magic show for just your group for US$1,300 and up. There’s a show for every budget in Vegas.

Yes, Las Vegas has plenty of kid-friendly and family-friendly shows, including the spectacular Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group shows. You can also bring the kids to a medieval tournament dinner show, a pet theater comedy show, a condensed production of all seven Harry Potter books, and dozens of magic shows.

There is always an assortment of Las Vegas residencies to choose from, with music acts like Adele, Christina Aguilera, Rod Stewart, Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Kelly Clarkson, Celine Dion, Scorpions, Mariah Carey, Donny Osmond, Elton John, Ringo Starr, and Barry Manilow having graced the city’s stages for extended runs. There are also celebrity magic shows (David Blaine) and celebrity burlesque (Dita Von Teese). Residencies sometimes last for a month and sometimes for years, so the list is constantly changing—but no matter when you visit, you’ll have a variety of celebrity shows to choose from.

Yes, you can wear jeans to any Las Vegas shows—there is no official dress code. This is especially true for daytime shows when people dress very casually. Many people like to dress up for evening shows, but it’s not a requirement.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Las Vegas aside from attending shows and performances. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Adults-Only Shows

• Wedding Packages

• Helicopter Tours

• Comedy Shows

• Bus Tours

Prices vary depending on duration and inclusions for Las Vegas shows and performances. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• High Roller Wheel Admission Ticket at The LINQ

• Nathan Burton Comedy Magic

• Farrell Dillon Comedy Magic at Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club

• Popovich Comedy Pet Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino

• Potted Potter at Horseshoe Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas

There are many shows in Las Vegas, ranging from Cirque du Soleil and magic acts to comedy, concerts, and tribute performances. Check age restrictions before booking; some performances are family-friendly, while others are adults-only. Seating and venue sizes vary, while some tickets include add-ons, such as VIP access or dinner. Popular shows sell out quickly, so book in advance for the best seats.

Tips for your Las Vegas show include arriving early to allow time for parking and venue check-in, especially at larger theaters. Dress codes are generally casual, but some resorts and casinos have dressier attire. Bring a printed or digital ticket and double-check the venue location. Most importantly, come ready to be entertained—Vegas shows are all about big talent and unforgettable moments.

Las Vegas shows run year-round, but the best times to book your trip are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the city is lively without the extremes of summer heat or holiday crowds. You’ll often find discounted show tickets for midweek performances and during slower travel periods, such as late summer or early January. Book early for the best seats and prices, especially if visiting over a weekend or during major events.