Las Vegas, the dazzling jewel of the Mojave Desert, isn’t just for high rollers and luxury seekers. Believe it or not, this neon-lit paradise offers a treasure trove of free experiences that’ll make your wallet breathe a sigh of relief.
Whether you’re strolling down the iconic Strip, exploring the vintage vibes of Fremont Street, or venturing beyond the city limits, there’s a world of cost-free adventures waiting for you.
So, let’s dive into the ultimate list of 45 fabulous free things to do in Las Vegas that’ll prove you don’t need deep pockets to have a blast in Sin City!
Free Attractions on The Las Vegas Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is the beating heart of the city, a 4.2-mile stretch of larger-than-life hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues.
But did you know that some of its most memorable experiences won’t cost you a dime? Let’s explore the freebies that await on this world-famous boulevard.
Iconic Hotel Experiences
Flamingo Wildlife Habitat:
Step into a lush oasis at the Flamingo Hotel, where you can observe flamingos (of course!), exotic birds, and fish in a serene garden setting. It’s a refreshing break from the desert heat and the perfect spot for nature lovers.
The habitat is home to over 60 exotic birds, including Chilean flamingos, sacred ibis, and pelicans. Don’t miss the daily pelican feedings for an extra treat!
Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens:
Prepare to be wowed by the ever-changing floral displays at the Bellagio. This 14,000-square-foot conservatory is transformed seasonally, showcasing intricate designs crafted from thousands of flowers and plants.
It’s a feast for the eyes and a photographer’s dream. Each display takes a team of 120 horticulturists and designers to create, with themes ranging from Chinese New Year to harvest season.
Venetian’s Grand Canal:
Transport yourself to Italy without leaving Nevada! Stroll through the Venetian’s replica of Venice, complete with gondolas and singing gondoliers. While the rides aren’t free, watching the spectacle and soaking in the atmosphere costs nothing.
The ceiling is painted to mimic a perfect blue sky, creating an illusion of outdoor space that’s particularly enchanting.
New York-New York’s miniature cityscape:
Take a walk around the exterior of New York-New York Hotel & Casino to see scaled-down versions of iconic Big Apple landmarks. From the Statue of Liberty to the Brooklyn Bridge, it’s a fun photo op and a clever way to “visit” NYC.
The facade includes replicas of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and even steam-emitting manhole covers for added authenticity.
Paris Las Vegas’ Eiffel Tower experience:
While ascending the tower comes with a fee, admiring it from the ground is completely free. The half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower is particularly stunning at night when it’s illuminated against the desert sky.
Did you know? The Las Vegas version is actually more durable than the original, built to withstand the harsh desert conditions.
Dazzling Shows and Performances
Bellagio Fountains:
No trip to Vegas is complete without witnessing the mesmerizing Fountains of Bellagio. This aquatic ballet set to music performs every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings, and every 15 minutes from 8 pm to midnight.
Each show is unique, combining water, music, and light in a spectacular display. The fountains shoot water up to 460 feet in the air, using a complex system of over 1,200 jets.
Mirage Volcano eruption:
Watch as the Mirage’s iconic volcano erupts in a thrilling display of fire, smoke, and “lava.” The show runs nightly and is choreographed to an exciting soundtrack composed by Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead and Indian tabla sensation Zakir Hussain.
The volcano uses a blend of fire, water, and audio effects to create a multi-sensory experience.
Circus acts at Circus Circus:
Step right up to see amazing acrobats, jugglers, and trapeze artists perform death-defying stunts at the Carnival Midway in Circus Circus.
Shows run throughout the day and are suitable for all ages. The hotel features the world’s largest permanent circus, with over 3.5 million visitors annually.
Fall of Atlantis show at Caesars Palace:
Witness the myth of Atlantis come to life through animatronics, special effects, and fire at the Fall of Atlantis show in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.
It’s a bit kitschy, but hey, it’s free entertainment! The show features nine-foot-tall talking statues and a 20-foot winged dragon that breathes fire.
Streetmosphere at The Venetian:
Enjoy impromptu performances by classically trained singers, actors, and musicians throughout The Venetian.
From opera singers to living statues, these performers add a touch of whimsy to your stroll. Keep an eye out for the “Gondolier March,” where the hotel’s gondoliers parade through the casino singing in unison.
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Unique Sights and Photo Ops
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign:
No Vegas trip is complete without a selfie at this iconic sign. Located at the south end of the Strip, it’s been welcoming visitors since 1959.
Fun fact: The sign was designed by Betty Willis, who never trademarked her design, considering it her gift to the city.
Huge dice and showgirls at the northern Strip:
At the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Sahara Avenue, you’ll find oversized dice and showgirl statues that make for a fun photo op. These statues stand 26 feet tall and light up at night, creating a dazzling display.
Coca-Cola Store’s giant Coke bottle:
Outside the Coca-Cola Store at the Showcase Mall, you’ll find a massive Coca-Cola bottle that’s four stories tall. It’s illuminated at night for an extra special view. The bottle contains 8,000 LED lights that can create various visual effects.
M&M’s World chocolate waterfall:
Inside the four-story M&M’s World, you can see a 22-foot chocolate waterfall. While the candies aren’t free, watching the “waterfall” doesn’t cost a thing. The waterfall circulates 200 pounds of milk chocolate, creating a mesmerizing display.
The Park between New York-New York and Park MGM:
This outdoor dining and entertainment district features eye-catching art installations, including 40-foot-tall steel shade structures designed to look like native desert flora. The shade structures are equipped with LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere after dark.
Free Things to Do on Fremont Street
Fremont Street, the original heart of Las Vegas, offers a different vibe from the glitzy Strip. Here, you’ll find a mix of old-school charm and modern attractions, many of which are completely free.
Fremont Street Experience
Viva Vision light show:
Look up to see the world’s largest video screen! The Viva Vision canopy stretches for five blocks and lights up nightly with incredible themed shows set to music.
The canopy is made up of 49.3 million LED lights and can display images so clear you can see them a quarter-mile away.
Live music performances:
Fremont Street features three stages with free concerts nightly. From rock to country to pop, there’s something for every musical taste. These stages host over 1,500 live music events annually, featuring both up-and-coming local talent and established acts.
Street performers and artists:
As you walk down Fremont Street, you’ll encounter an eclectic mix of buskers, from spray paint artists to acrobats to celebrity impersonators. Keep in mind that while watching is free, tipping is appreciated if you enjoy a performance.
Classic Vegas Vibes
Golden Nugget’s Hand of Faith gold nugget:
Inside the Golden Nugget casino, you can see the world’s largest gold nugget on display. Weighing 61 pounds, it’s a sight to behold!
This nugget was discovered in Australia in 1980 using a metal detector and was purchased by the casino for over a million dollars.
Vegas Vic neon cowboy sign:
This 40-foot neon cowboy has been waving to visitors since 1951. While he no longer speaks, he’s still an iconic symbol of old Las Vegas. Vegas Vic originally had a recording that would say “Howdy, partner” every 15 minutes!
Container Park’s fire-breathing praying mantis:
At the entrance to Container Park, a 55-foot metal praying mantis sculpture occasionally shoots flames from its antennae.
It’s particularly impressive at night. This sculpture was originally created for the Burning Man festival before finding its home in downtown Las Vegas.
Fremont East District’s neon gallery:
Take a stroll through the Fremont East District to see a collection of restored vintage neon signs, illuminating the area with a nostalgic glow.
This outdoor museum showcases signs from old casinos and motels, preserving a piece of Las Vegas history.
Off-Strip Free Attractions
Venture beyond the neon lights of the Strip and Fremont Street to discover a different side of Las Vegas. From natural wonders to cultural experiences, these off-strip attractions offer a refreshing change of pace.
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
Red Rock Canyon scenic drive:
While there’s typically a fee to enter Red Rock Canyon, the scenic drive leading up to it offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape at no cost. The 13-mile scenic drive takes you through a landscape of red rock formations and desert flora.
Springs Preserve walking trails:
This 180-acre cultural institution offers free access to its outdoor trails, where you can learn about desert plants and wildlife. The preserve features over 3 miles of trails, showcasing the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert.
Clark County Wetlands Park:
Explore 210 acres of water, vegetation, and wildlife in this urban oasis. The Nature Center and walking trails are free to access. The park is home to over 212 species of birds and numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area views:
While entering the recreation area requires a fee, you can get stunning views of Lake Mead from several free viewpoints along the road.
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States by volume when full, created by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River.
Sunset Park:
This sprawling 323-acre park features a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great spot for a free day out in nature. The park also includes a disc golf course, tennis courts, and a dog park, offering something for everyone.
Art and Culture
First Friday art walk in the Arts District:
On the first Friday of each month, the Arts District comes alive with gallery openings, street performances, and food vendors. This event attracts thousands of visitors and showcases the work of local artists across various mediums.
Graffiti art in the Arts District:
Take a self-guided tour of the vibrant street art that adorns many buildings in the Arts District. The area has become a canvas for both local and international street artists, with new murals appearing regularly.
UNLV Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art:
This university museum offers free admission and features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The museum also houses a collection of pre-Columbian and ethnographic art, offering a diverse cultural experience.
City of Las Vegas Art Galleries:
The city operates several free art galleries, including the Charleston Heights Arts Center and the West Las Vegas Arts Center. These galleries showcase work by local artists and host regular exhibitions and events.
Seven Magic Mountains art installation:
Located just outside Las Vegas, this large-scale public art installation features seven towers of colorful, stacked boulders standing more than 30 feet high. Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, this vibrant installation provides a stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.
Free Museums and Educational Experiences
Las Vegas isn’t just about entertainment; it’s also a place where you can learn and explore without spending a dime.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory tour:
Take a self-guided tour of this working chocolate factory and see how gourmet chocolates are made. While the tour is free, you might be tempted to buy some sweet souvenirs! The factory also features a three-acre cactus garden with over 300 species of plants.
Silverton Casino’s giant aquarium:
Home to over 4,000 tropical fish, this 117,000-gallon reef aquarium is free to visit and even features mermaid shows on select days. The aquarium is maintained by a team of marine biologists and requires over 5,000 pounds of food annually to feed its inhabitants.
Pinball Hall of Fame:
While playing the machines costs money, browsing this massive collection of pinball machines from every era is free. The museum houses over 200 pinball machines, some dating back to the 1950s.
National Atomic Testing Museum:
Nevada residents can visit this museum for free with valid ID. It offers a fascinating look at Nevada’s nuclear testing history. The museum features over 12,000 artifacts related to nuclear testing, including a replica of the Ground Zero Theater experience.
Las Vegas Natural History Museum:
This museum occasionally offers free admission days, typically coinciding with national holidays. It features exhibits on dinosaurs, marine life, and the wildlife of Nevada and Africa.
Seasonal and Special Events
Las Vegas hosts numerous free events throughout the year. Here are a few to keep an eye out for:
Great Santa Run:
Held in December, this charity run/walk sees thousands of Santas take to the streets of downtown Las Vegas. The event raises funds for Opportunity Village, a local organization serving adults with intellectual disabilities.
Chinese New Year celebrations:
Many casinos and hotels host free performances and displays to celebrate the Lunar New Year. These often include traditional lion dances, cultural performances, and specially themed decorations throughout the properties.
Summerlin Festival of Arts:
This annual fall event showcases the works of fine artists and craftspeople, with free admission for all. The festival typically features over 100 artists and includes live entertainment and children’s activities.
Rock in Rio music festival:
While the main event is ticketed, the festival often includes free areas with entertainment and activities. These areas typically feature local bands, food vendors, and interactive experiences.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
These last few items might not be entirely free, but they offer great value or are free for certain groups:
High Roller happy half hour:
While not free, this deal offers unlimited drinks during your 30-minute ride on the world’s tallest observation wheel. It’s a unique way to see the Las Vegas skyline while enjoying a beverage or two.
Fremont Street zip line viewing:
While riding the zip line costs money, watching the riders zoom by overhead is free entertainment. The SlotZilla zip line sends riders flying 77 feet above Fremont Street at speeds up to 35 mph.
Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art:
Nevada residents can enjoy free admission to this world-class art gallery with valid ID. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions featuring works from some of the world’s most renowned artists and collections.
Downtown Container Park playground and live music:
This unique shopping center built from shipping containers features a free playground for kids and often hosts free live music events. The centerpiece of the playground is a 33-foot-tall treehouse slide, perfect for kids (and kids at heart).
FAQ’s About Free Things To Do in Las Vegas
Are these attractions really completely free?
Most of the attractions listed are entirely free. Some, like certain museums, may offer free admission only on specific days or for certain groups (like Nevada residents). Always check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm current policies.
What’s the best time to visit Las Vegas for free activities?
Las Vegas offers free activities year-round, but you might find more outdoor events in spring and fall when the weather is milder. Summer can be extremely hot, which may limit your enjoyment of outdoor attractions.
Winter, while cooler, can be a great time to enjoy indoor attractions and holiday-themed events. Always check event calendars for seasonal activities.
How can I get around Las Vegas for free?
While not entirely free, the Deuce bus offers affordable transportation along the Strip and downtown. Some hotels also offer free shuttles between properties.
Walking is always free, and many attractions on the Strip are within walking distance of each other. Just remember to stay hydrated, especially in the warmer months!
Are there any free things to do in Las Vegas for families?
Yes! Many of the attractions listed, like the Bellagio Conservatory, wildlife habitats, and outdoor parks, are family-friendly and free.
The Fremont Street Experience, while lively, can be enjoyed by families earlier in the evening. Always check age restrictions for specific events or venues.
Can I get free drinks in Las Vegas casinos?
Casinos typically offer complimentary drinks to players actively gambling. However, please gamble responsibly and be aware that you’re expected to tip the servers.
Remember, the “free” drinks are an incentive for you to keep gambling, so always set a budget and stick to it.
Las Vegas truly is a city of endless possibilities, even for those on a tight budget.
