How To Enjoy Las Vegas Without Gambling
Are you looking for things to do in Vegas besides gambling? If you’re not a fan of the tables, don’t worry! This guide is the perfect one-stop-shop for travel planning; it’ll provide you with a list of Las Vegas recommendations that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
From visiting the Grand Canyon to spending a day in the Valley of Fire State Park, there are plenty of unique activities, attractions and interesting things to do in Vegas that take you beyond gambling. Read on to find out some of the fun things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling at the casinos. This list comprises a selection of day trips, adventurous, luxurious, romantic, and family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy.
Fun Things to do in Vegas Besides Gambling
No matter the activity you’re looking for, you’re bound to find plenty of things to do in Vegas besides gambling. For starters, you could check out some of the amazing outdoor parks just a short drive from Las Vegas.
Discover the Great Outdoors Around Las Vegas
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the area surrounding Las Vegas is home to many unique locations as well as incredible desert landscapes and canyons. However, none can compare to the beauty of the Valley of Fire State Park.
Located an hour away from Vegas, this fantastic destination offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing and mountain biking that are accessible to all levels of experience and fitness.
The park is also home to a selection of ancient petroglyphs, which are definitely worth exploring. You can easily fill an entire day or spend a half-day there and combine this with other activities such as a tour of Hoover Dam or an ATV adventure.
Alternatively, you can take a guided tour with a small group, which includes round-trip transportation from Las Vegas and park admission.
Some must-see trails include The White Domes Trail, Mouse’s Tank Road and Elephant Rock. Be sure to check out my in-depth guide to the Valley of Fire and find out some of the best photo spots during your visit.
For those who enjoy hiking, a visit to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must. The stunning outdoor area features a variety of plants and animals, making it perfect for hikers and sightseers alike.
If you’re looking for a challenge, hike to the summit of the Las Vegas Overlook trail. The view offers breathtaking sights of the city below and Nevada’s desert landscape.
If hiking is not your thing, enjoy the magnificent views on a drive around the 13 mile scenic drive. Stop at one of the many pull-offs or picnic areas and explore one of the coolest places in Nevada.
Find Shopping, Dining and Entertainment
If exploring outdoors isn’t really your thing, consider brewery hopping and art mural sightings in the Arts District. Here, you’ll find plenty of unique boutiques, beautiful art murals, modern eateries and all kinds of breweries. On the weekends, they often have live music and food trucks, too.
Spend some time here and enjoy the laid-back vibes of this creative neighborhood.
Las Vegas is also a dream for shopaholics. From designer stores to boutiques and outlet malls, there’s no shortage of places to shop.
Head over to the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood for exclusive designer stores like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. If you’re on a tighter budget, head over to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets.
From Cirque Du Soleil to musical concerts, Las Vegas is home to some of the best shows and entertainment in the world. Whether you’re looking to laugh, be dazzled by over-the-top magic performances, or listen to some great music, you can find something that suits your taste.
If you’re looking for a show that will take your breath away and leave you mesmerized, look no further than Cirque du Soleil. This one-of-a-kind production will captivate you with its stunning visuals and awe-inspiring performances that combine elements of dance, acrobatics, theatre, and music.
Relax at Luxury Resort Pools
Las Vegas might be known for its nightlife, there are still ways to cool off during your visit. Hang out poolside and listen to music, swim in the refreshing waters and watch the sun set behind the mountains. Be sure to book in advance to get the best parties and DJs.
Check out one of many swimming pools around the city, such as the Mandalay Bay Beach for its the wave pool, lazy river and lagoon, the Boulevard Pool at Cosmopolitan for its views of the strip, and Wet Republic at MGM Grand for the ultimate pool party. Enjoy a refreshing dip, sunbathe on a lounge chair, or hit up any of the poolside bars for a delicious cocktail.
Take in the Arts & Culture Scene
To get a real sense of Vegas culture, you might want to visit the Neon Museum. Located in Downtown Las Vegas, the museum is home to many vintage neon signs from some of the most iconic Vegas hotels. You’ll be glad you made the trip!
It’s incredibly photogenic and makes for some truly amazing pictures. Just remember to check opening times before you go.
If you’re a fan of retro gaming, the Pinball Hall of Fame is a must-see. Stocked with vintage pinball games and other relics from the past, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon. Kids will love the classic arcade games and adults will appreciate the nostalgia.
In the mood for something a little different? Get a glimpse into the city’s seedy past at the Mob Museum. Here you can learn about the infamous mafia families who shaped the culture and history of Las Vegas.
The interactive exhibits provide a unique insight and make for an educational and entertaining day out.
If the weather is nice, head over to Springs Preserve to get a glimpse of the Mojave Desert. This 180-acre oasis offers plenty of fascinating activities, including guided tours and educational programs. Learn about Nevada’s unique history and soak in the amazing views of the desert flora and fauna.
Experience an Unforgettable Tour
There are plenty of things to experience on the ground around Las Vegas but nothing compares to taking to the air and admiring the city from the sky. A night-time helicopter flight provides some of the most stunning views of the strip, so book your seat in advance.
For those who seek a more sedate activity, a trip to the Hoover Dam is the perfect way to round out a great Vegas stay. The dam itself is an impressive feat of engineering and the tour through its interior is perfect for history buffs.
The dam is one of the country’s engineering marvels and only a short ride away from Las Vegas.
Experience the beauty of The Grand Canyon on one of the many exclusive tours. Travel in style on a luxurious bus to the South Rim, or enjoy a helicopter, air, and land package to get the full experience.
Finally, experience floating high above the city on a Vegas Sunset Balloon Ride and take in the beautiful sights of the strip and Red Rock Canyon from a bird’s eye view. Get an up-close look at the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Bellagio fountains, the High Roller Observation Wheel, and the Stratosphere Tower.
If interested in the many tours available check out this full list of tours with reviews and pricing.
Final Thoughts
It’s no surprise that Las Vegas is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world — and with good reason. From jaw-dropping performances to unforgettable experiences and adventures, its easy to enjoy Las Vegas without gambling.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer to take things easy, Las Vegas has so many great things to do beyond just gambling. With so many incredible experiences just waiting to be had, the only question is, where to start?
