101 Free Things To Do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, known for its vibrant nightlife and casinos, also offers a plethora of free activities for those who wish to explore the city without spending a fortune.

Free Things To Do in Las Vegas

Here’s a comprehensive list of 100 free things you can enjoy in this dazzling city.

1. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Take a memorable photo at the iconic Las Vegas sign (shown above). This classic landmark, located at the south end of the Strip, has been welcoming visitors since 1959 and is a great spot for a souvenir picture.

2. Fremont Street Experience

Enjoy live music, a Viva Vision light show, and street performers at Fremont Street. This five-block entertainment district in downtown Las Vegas is known for its LED canopy and free nightly shows.

3. The Bellagio Fountains

Experience the stunning water show at the Bellagio, where fountains dance to the rhythm of various tunes. This mesmerizing display, synchronized with music and lights, runs every 15 to 30 minutes in the evenings and is a must-see on the Strip near the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas.

4. Mirage Volcano

Watch the spectacular volcano eruption show outside the Mirage. This free outdoor attraction features fireballs and explosions, choreographed to a powerful soundtrack.

5. Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo

Discover a variety of birds, fish, and turtles in this serene habitat. Located at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel, this peaceful garden is a delightful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

6. Art Installations at CityCenter

Admire the impressive public art installations in CityCenter. This urban area features works by world-renowned artists, making it a great spot for art enthusiasts.

7. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Explore the beautifully themed gardens at the Bellagio. This magnificent conservatory changes with the seasons and holidays, offering breathtaking floral displays.

8. Fall of Atlantis Show at Caesars

Witness an animatronic show depicting the fall of Atlantis. Located inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, this entertaining show combines special effects with a compelling storyline.

9. Streetmosphere at the Venetian

Enjoy live performances in the Grand Canal Shoppes. This unique experience features classically trained singers, actors, and musicians showcasing their talents amidst the Venetian’s canals and plazas.

10. Hershey’s Chocolate World

Indulge in free chocolate samples at Hershey’s Chocolate World. This two-story chocolate haven offers interactive experiences and a chance to customize your own chocolate bars.

11. M&M’s World

Visit the four-story M&M’s World and enjoy colorful displays. This vibrant store offers a range of M&M’s merchandise and a chance to see the chocolate-making process.

12. Circus Acts at Circus Circus

Watch free circus acts at the world’s largest permanent circus. Located at the Circus Circus Hotel, this family-friendly show features acrobats, jugglers, and clowns performing daily.

13. TV Show Tapings

Attend a free taping of popular TV shows filmed in Vegas. This is a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of television production and possibly be a part of a live audience.

14. Hiking at Red Rock Canyon

Explore the scenic hiking trails at Red Rock Canyon. Just a short drive from the city, this natural conservation area offers stunning desert landscapes and a variety of trails for all skill levels.

15. The LINQ Promenade

Stroll through this open-air shopping and dining area. The LINQ Promenade is a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, and is home to the High Roller observation wheel.

16. Gold and Silver Pawn Shop

Visit the famous pawn shop from the TV show “Pawn Stars.” This Las Vegas staple offers a chance to see unique historical items and possibly meet some of the stars of the show.

17. Downtown Container Park

Discover unique shops and live entertainment. This open-air shopping center, made from shipping containers, features boutique shops, restaurants, and a play area for children.

18. Lake of Dreams at Wynn

Watch the multimedia show at the Lake of Dreams. This enchanting performance at the Wynn Las Vegas combines music, light, and puppetry, and is visible from several locations around the lake.

19. Art Galleries in The Arts District

Explore numerous art galleries in the Arts District. This vibrant area, also known as 18b, hosts First Friday art walks and showcases works from local and international artists.

20. Sunset Stampede at Sam’s Town

Enjoy a laser light and water show at Sam’s Town. The Sunset Stampede, set in a nine-story atrium, is a dazzling display of water and light choreographed to music.

21. Akhob by James Turrell at Louis Vuitton

Experience a unique light installation at Louis Vuitton (reservation needed). “Akhob,” created by artist James Turrell, is an immersive light experience inside the Louis Vuitton store in CityCenter.

22. First Friday Art Celebration

Join the monthly art celebration in the Arts District. First Friday is a community event that features art, music, food, and more, celebrating the culture and creativity of Las Vegas.

23. Ethel M Chocolate Factory Tour

Take a free tour and enjoy chocolate samples. The Ethel M Chocolate Factory in Henderson offers a glimpse into the chocolate-making process and a chance to taste their gourmet chocolates.

24. 3D Street Art at the Linq

Marvel at the incredible 3D street art. The Linq Promenade is home to several stunning 3D murals that create mind-bending optical illusions, perfect for fun photos.

25. Aquarium at Silverton

Observe thousands of tropical fish at Silverton’s aquarium. This 117,000-gallon reef aquarium is home to a variety of exotic fish and includes interactive fish feeding shows.

26. Amazon Warehouse Tour

Discover the inner workings of an Amazon fulfillment center through a free tour. Witness how this e-commerce giant utilizes cutting-edge technology to process, package, and ship orders efficiently. This educational tour offers a unique insight into the world of online retail.

Ted and I did this tour back in 2020. Since we are Amazon FBA sellers, it was interesting to learn what happens when we send in shipments of inventory. 

Did you know that Amazon offers 17 ways to make money online? 

27. Zappos Tour

Experience the company culture of Zappos with a free tour of their headquarters. This tour provides a glimpse into the innovative and employee-focused environment of this successful online shoe and clothing retailer. Visitors often rave about the fun and engaging nature of this tour.

I personally took this tour back in 2009 with a bunch of my affiliate marketing friends (seen above), and it was super fun. This was before Zappos was bought out by Amazon, and I cannot vouch if they still pick up offer pickup services from your hotel. 

28. Seven Magic Mountains

Visit the colorful rock art installation outside Vegas. This vibrant and large-scale desert artwork by Ugo Rondinone consists of seven towers of brightly colored stacked boulders.

29. Window Shopping at Crystals

Window shop at the high-end shopping complex, Crystals. Located in the CityCenter complex, it’s a great place to browse luxury brands and admire the striking architecture and art installations.

If you can’t afford

30. Calico Basin

Enjoy the natural beauty and hiking trails at Calico Basin. Nestled within the Red Rock Canyon area, it offers picturesque landscapes and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle.

31. Sunrise/Sunset Watching

Catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the desert. Las Vegas offers several vantage points for spectacular views, especially around the Red Rock Canyon and Henderson areas.

32. Cactus Garden at Ethel M

Walk through the extensive cactus garden. This three-acre botanical cactus garden at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory showcases over 300 species of desert plants.

33. Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort

Learn about Las Vegas’ history at this state park. The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort is the site of the first permanent non-native settlement in the area, offering historical insights into early Las Vegas.

34. The Park Vegas

Relax and people-watch in this vibrant park area. Situated near the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll, with art installations and water features.

35. Street Art in Downtown

Explore the colorful street art in downtown Vegas. The city’s burgeoning art scene is evident in the vibrant murals that adorn the walls of many downtown buildings.

36. Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge

Walk across the bridge for a spectacular view of Hoover Dam. The Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge offers breathtaking views of both the dam and the Colorado River.

37. The Neon Museum

Visit the outdoor Neon Boneyard (daytime only). This unique museum features a collection of classic Las Vegas neon signs that tell the history of the city.

If you receive SNAP benefits, you can get free museum tickets with EBT for the guided tour and evening admission. 

38. Clark County Wetlands Park

Discover the natural side of Vegas at the wetlands park. This park provides a habitat for wildlife and a serene environment for nature walks and bird watching.

39. Historic Walking Tours

Join free walking tours and learn about Vegas’ history. These tours often cover significant historical sites and provide insights into the city’s past.

40. Boulder City Historic District

Explore the charming historic district of Boulder City. Known for its quaint streets and rich history, Boulder City offers a stark contrast to the glitz of Las Vegas.

41. UNLV Campus Art Walk

Take a self-guided art walk around UNLV’s campus. The University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus features various art installations and sculptures, showcasing the creativity of students and artists.

42. Railroad Tunnels Trail

Hike the historic railroad tunnels near Hoover Dam. This trail offers a unique hiking experience with views of Lake Mead and the surrounding area.

43. Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Visit the museum on free admission days. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is an educational and fun destination, featuring exhibits on wildlife, dinosaurs, and ancient cultures.

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum also offers discounted admission for military members. 

44. Arts Factory

Browse through local art and craft at the Arts Factory. Located in the heart of the Arts District, it’s a hub for artists’ studios, galleries, and boutiques.

45. Springs Preserve

Explore the Springs Preserve, a cultural and historical attraction that offers nature walks and exhibits on Las Vegas’s history and sustainability. While some areas require a ticket, many outdoor spaces and gardens are free to visit.

46. Antique Alley

Stroll through Antique Alley, a collection of antique shops and vintage boutiques located in the Arts District. It’s a great place to browse unique items and enjoy the retro vibe.

47. Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

Experience the charm of Paris in Las Vegas with a view from the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. The viewing deck is free for children and offers panoramic views of the city.

48. Miracle Mile Shops Fountain Show

Watch the rainstorm and fountain show inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood. This indoor attraction features thunder, lightning, and rain, creating a unique shopping experience.

49. The Smith Center for the Performing Arts

Visit The Smith Center for the Performing Arts to enjoy its beautiful art deco design and free outdoor performances. The center often hosts open-air concerts and events in Symphony Park.

50. Las Vegas Motor Speedway

Check out the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for free events and open practices. Car enthusiasts will love the opportunity to see racing vehicles and maybe even meet some drivers.

51. Desert Demonstration Garden

Learn about desert landscaping and sustainable gardening at the Desert Demonstration Garden. This educational resource offers a look at how to garden in a desert environment.

52. Pinball Hall of Fame

Play classic pinball machines at the Pinball Hall of Fame. Admission is free, and games are available at a nominal cost, making it a fun and affordable outing.

53. Fashion Show Mall Runway Shows

Catch a live fashion show at the Fashion Show Mall. These events showcase the latest trends and are held on select weekends throughout the year.

54. Las Vegas China Town Plaza

Explore the Las Vegas China Town Plaza, a cultural hotspot featuring Asian-themed shops, restaurants, and architecture. It’s a great place to experience diverse cultures and cuisines.

55. T-Mobile Arena Outdoor Events

Attend free outdoor events and concerts at the T-Mobile Arena. The plaza outside the arena often hosts live music, sports-related activities, and more.

56. The District at Green Valley Ranch

Visit The District at Green Valley Ranch for shopping, dining, and free outdoor events. This upscale, open-air mall often hosts free concerts, movie nights, and other community events.

57. Clark County Library Events

Check out the events at Clark County Library, which often include free concerts, lectures, and workshops. The library system offers a variety of educational and cultural programs.

58. Las Vegas Farmers Markets

Browse local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. These markets are held in various locations around the city and are a great way to support local vendors.

59. Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Visit the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, a prehistoric site with fossils dating back thousands of years. It’s a fascinating place for those interested in paleontology and natural history.

60. Red Rock Scenic Drive

Take a scenic drive through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. While the scenic drive has an entrance fee, there are numerous free pullouts and viewpoints along the way for breathtaking views.

61. Valley of Fire State Park

Explore the Valley of Fire State Park, known for its stunning red sandstone formations. The park offers numerous hiking trails and photo opportunities, and while there’s an entrance fee, the park hosts occasional free entry days.

62. Old Town Las Vegas Museums

Discover the history of Las Vegas by visiting museums in Old Town. Many small museums and historical sites in this area offer free admission.

63. Sunset Park Pond

Relax by the Sunset Park Pond, a peaceful spot perfect for picnics, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors. The park also has sports facilities and walking trails.

64. Las Vegas Arts and Culture Walks

Join arts and culture walks in various neighborhoods. These walks showcase local art, music, and food, highlighting the diverse cultural scene of Las Vegas.

65. Historic Railroad Trail

Hike the Historic Railroad Trail, which offers views of Lake Mead and passes through several old railroad tunnels. It’s a unique trail with both natural beauty and historical significance.

66. Mount Charleston Scenic Byway

Drive up the Mount Charleston Scenic Byway for cooler temperatures and beautiful mountain scenery. The area has several hiking trails and picnic spots, ideal for a day trip.

67. Boulder Beach at Lake Mead

Spend a day at Boulder Beach on Lake Mead. While there’s an entrance fee for the national recreation area, Boulder Beach itself offers a free and relaxing spot to swim, sunbathe, and picnic.

68. Clark County Museum

Visit the Clark County Museum to learn about the region’s history. The museum has indoor exhibits and a collection of restored historic buildings in its outdoor Heritage Street.

69. UNLV Botanical Garden

Explore the UNLV Botanical Garden, a living collection of desert flora and other arid-land plants. The garden is a quiet and educational retreat in the heart of the university campus.

70. Downtown Arts District “18b”

Discover the Downtown Arts District, also known as “18b.” This area is full of galleries, studios, and unique shops, and it’s the center of the local art scene in Las Vegas.

71. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Visit Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, nestled in the Red Rock Canyon area. The park offers picturesque views, hiking trails, and historic buildings. There’s an entrance fee, but the park occasionally offers free admission days.

72. Lion Habitat Ranch

See lions at the Lion Habitat Ranch. While there is typically an admission fee, the ranch hosts special events and free admission days throughout the year.

73. Las Vegas Natural Areas

Explore the numerous natural areas around Las Vegas. These spots, like Floyd Lamb Park, Wetlands Park, and Desert Breeze Park, offer a break from the city with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and serene landscapes.

74. Celestial Nights at the Planetarium

Enjoy stargazing at the Planetarium at the College of Southern Nevada. They offer free telescope viewing on certain nights, allowing visitors to gaze at stars, planets, and other celestial bodies.

75. Las Vegas Cultural Festivals

Participate in cultural festivals held throughout the year. These events celebrate the diverse communities in Las Vegas with food, music, dance, and art, and many are free to attend.

76. Lake Las Vegas

Visit Lake Las Vegas, a picturesque area with a Mediterranean vibe. While some activities are paid, strolling around the lake and enjoying the scenery is free.

77. Historical Markers and Landmarks

Discover Las Vegas’s historical markers and landmarks. The city has several sites that tell the story of its development and history, many of which can be explored without any fee.

78. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Hike in the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, known for its petroglyphs and natural beauty. This area offers a chance to see ancient rock art and enjoy the desert landscape.

79. Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

Visit the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, home to thousands of migratory waterfowl and resident desert birds. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

80. Lost City Museum

Explore the Lost City Museum in Overton, which showcases artifacts from the Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the Moapa Valley. While there’s a small fee, the museum occasionally offers free entry.

81. Bonnie Springs Ranch

Visit the remnants of Bonnie Springs Ranch, near Red Rock Canyon. While the main attractions are now closed, the area around the ranch offers beautiful scenery and a glimpse into Nevada’s ranching history.

82. Nostalgia Street Rods Museum

View classic cars and memorabilia at the Nostalgia Street Rods Museum. They offer free tours on special occasions, showcasing an impressive collection of vintage automobiles and antiques.

83. Las Vegas Community Events

Attend community events in parks and public spaces. Las Vegas hosts various free events, including movie nights, concerts, and holiday celebrations, fostering a sense of community.

84. St. Thomas Ghost Town

Explore the St. Thomas Ghost Town, a once-submerged town in the Lake Mead area. The town’s remains became visible after the water level dropped, and it’s now an intriguing site for hikers and history enthusiasts.

85. Public Art Displays

Discover public art displays throughout the city. Las Vegas is home to numerous sculptures, murals, and installations that add vibrancy to the urban landscape.

86. Gardens at the Wynn

Wander through the lush gardens at the Wynn Las Vegas. These beautifully landscaped areas offer a peaceful retreat with water features, flowering plants, and carefully maintained greenery.

87. Old Las Vegas Light Show

Experience the old Las Vegas light show in Downtown. This classic display is reminiscent of the city’s early days and is a nostalgic trip back in time.

88. Hemenway Park

Relax at Hemenway Park in Boulder City, where you might spot bighorn sheep grazing. The park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and

89. Stroll through the ARIA Fine Art Collection

Admire the ARIA Fine Art Collection, a public exhibition of major works by internationally acclaimed artists, located throughout the ARIA campus.

90. Town Square Children’s Park

Bring kids to the children’s park at Town Square, featuring a tree house, hedge maze, and play structures. It’s a great family-friendly activity away from the Strip.

91. Visit the Historic Fifth Street School

See the Historic Fifth Street School, an example of Mission Revival-style architecture and a center for cultural events.

92. Explore Downtown Summerlin

Visit Downtown Summerlin for its outdoor shopping and dining. It’s a lovely area to walk around, with occasional free events and entertainment.

For savvy shoppers seeking affordable treasures in Las Vegas, exploring liquidation stores, bin stores, and Goodwill outlets is a must-do. These hidden gems offer a treasure trove of discounted items, from electronics and home goods to unique fashion finds.

Liquidation stores provide a chance to snag high-end products at significantly reduced prices due to overstock or minor packaging damage. Bin stores take bargain hunting to the next level with their pay-by-the-bin approach, often housing an eclectic mix of items at surprisingly low prices.

Goodwill stores, meanwhile, are the perfect places to find gently used clothing, accessories, and home décor, all while contributing to a good cause. So, for an affordable shopping experience that’s as thrilling as it is budget-friendly, Las Vegas’ array of discount stores is your ideal destination.

93. Watch Planes at McCarran International Airport

Plane-spot at McCarran International Airport. There are various spots around the airport where you can watch airplanes take off and land.

94. Guardian Angel Cathedral

Visit the Guardian Angel Cathedral, an A-frame structure with stunning stained glass, located on the Strip.

95. Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum

Explore the Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum inside McCarran International Airport, showcasing the aviation history of Southern Nevada.

96. Stroll Around Tivoli Village

Walk through Tivoli Village, an outdoor shopping center with a European vibe. It’s a great spot for window shopping and enjoying the architecture.

97. Visit the Public Parks

Las Vegas has several public parks, like Sunset Park and Floyd Lamb Park, where you can have picnics, play sports, or simply relax.

98. Old Spanish Trail Park

Visit the Old Spanish Trail Park, a historical park that was part of the Old Spanish Trail trade route.

99. Eldorado Canyon

Drive to Eldorado Canyon for stunning desert landscapes. This area is rich in mining history and natural beauty.

100. Visit the Las Vegas Farm

Experience farm life at the Las Vegas Farm, a rural oasis in the city. It’s a great educational experience, especially for kids.

101. West Wind Drive-in Theater

Catch a free movie at the West Wind Las Vegas Drive-in on family fun nights. It’s a nostalgic way to enjoy a movie under the stars.

And if that’s not enough things to do while visiting Sin City, you can always road trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon as it’s a beautiful drive!

Bonus: Extra Freebies in Las Vegas with FoundersCard

If you have a FoundersCard, you’re in for some cool free stuff in Las Vegas. This card isn’t free, but once you have it, you can get into some fancy clubs without paying a cover charge. You’ll also get special deals at high-end hotels, like lower room rates or maybe a free upgrade.

Read about Ted’s and my adventure in Las Vegas using our FoundersCard.

The fun doesn’t stop there; FoundersCard can get you onto golf courses or into relaxing spas without paying extra. It’s a great way to add a bit of luxury to your Vegas trip, especially if you’re already planning to visit often. With FoundersCard, Las Vegas isn’t just about saving money, but also about enjoying some of the fancier things the city has to offer.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Las Vegas offers an astonishing variety of free activities that cater to all ages and interests. From dazzling light shows and iconic landmarks to natural wonders and cultural experiences, there’s something in this vibrant city for everyone.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking to explore beyond the casinos and shows, these 70 activities demonstrate that Las Vegas is more than just its famous Strip; it’s a city rich with history, art, and adventure.

Each of these activities not only provides a chance to save money but also offers unique experiences that can make your time in Las Vegas truly unforgettable. So the next time you find yourself in this neon-lit city, remember that some of the best experiences don’t have to cost a dime.

Featured Image Credit: Deposit Photos