The Best Things to do in Las Vegas That Isn’t Gambling

Las Vegas is always a treat and I find myself going back for more adventure and fun. I always have a great time but there are a few things I have learned along the way. Las Vegas is very pricey, it is worth it to pay extra for a nicer hotel to stay in, there is so much more to do than gamble or party, don’t miss out on the experiences off the strip, get/find a promoter if you want to party, and it gets uncomfortably hot in the summer. Take my lessons learned and have the best trip ever! Plus I’ve outlined some epic experiences that aren’t gambling and mostly don’t involve partying.

Area 15

This place is epic and actually deserves one night of your time. It is located off the strip so definitely an Uber ride but it’s a quick and usually cheap one. There is so much to do and see in this one little building. You’ve got ax throwing, restaurants, breweries, glow n dark golf, and my favorite part the Omega Mart. Definitely spend extra for the omega mart it is an interactive experience and is actually a lot of fun! You can find ticket and event information if you check here.

Seven Magic Mountains

For a while, it was expected that the seven magic mountains would be gone after 2021. But looks like they’ve extended the lease and it’s here for you to see! It’s honestly such a cool artistic rock formation with stunning views of the Nevada-style “mountains”. You should know that it will get crowded. I would suggest getting there about 30-40 minutes before the sunrises.. nobody usually wakes up that early in VEGAS! It’s probably your best bet to get there without a crowd because ugh, crowds just ruin it! Also, we just ubered there and then called an Uber back, super easy.

Valley of Fire

I have yet to visit here but definitely will be top on the list for the next time I go to Vegas, I’ve only heard amazing things. You can rent a car to get there and it takes about 1 hour. The parking pass also is about $10. I would go in the morning because it gets HOT quickly. You can find hikes, scenic drives, and viewpoints.

Visit the Arts District

I actually stumbled upon the art district with a few of my gal pals by accident. We ended up going to Esther’s Kitchen for lunch (which is absolutely so good and has such a vibe) but then realized how cool the area was. There are a lot of breweries you can check out here too. Plus the prices aren’t as crazy as the strip. One time, we walked to the arts district from the strip! About a 3-mile walk and I definitely wouldn’t suggest doing it in the summer or without a group of people. However, along the way we were able to walk through the hotels and it was a fun little experience!

Pasta at Esthers Kitchen

Ride a Gondola at the Venetian

I haven’t ridden a gondola at the Venetian either but I’ve definitely been to where they do it and have watched. Obviously, the real thing (which I’ve done) is way more epic, but they do a pretty good job at making it feel like the real deal. Plus it’s pretty cool how they transform the inside of a hotel into Venice. Even if you aren’t interested in riding the gondola, it’s still a cool picturesque spot to visit. The gondola costs $34 per person during the week and Friday – Sunday it’s $39 per person. You can find all the information if you check here.

Walkthrough the Bellagio Conservatory or Watch the Fountain Show at Night

I actually am obsessed with the conservatory and could spend an hour just looking at the beautiful flower formations. Definitely a great spot for some cute pictures. Also, the fountain show at night is such a staple you can’t miss it!

Go to the Speakeasy Màs Por Favor Taqueria y Tequila

I never thought to go to a speakeasy in Las Vegas until we were recommended to go to it by a local. And locals know best. The speakeasy is so cool and one of the best speakeasies I’ve seen! Highly suggest it but make sure to make a reservation because it does get busy. It’s definitely an Uber ride too but like everything else in Las Vegas, it’s a quick Uber!

Have Brunch at cafe lola

Who doesn’t love a trendy cafe for cute pics and good food!? Definitely visit this cafe as it has the cutest decor and the menu is stacked with delicious treats and good coffee! This is another place off the strip which is honestly refreshing sometimes! It’s about a 20-minute drive from the Venetian.

Shop Until You Drop

One great thing about Vegas too is the shopping! I prefer actually going to places in the hotel like the boutique stores. All the hotels have great spots and it’s fun stumbling on them. Some of the most popular hotels for shopping though are The Venetian, The Shoppes at The Palazzo, and The Forum Shops at Caesars.

Go Partying at a Day or Night Club

I personally am a big fan of day drinking and LOVE the pool vibes that Vegas has. You can experience a low-key pool party or an epic pool club! Plus both the day clubs and night ones have some of the best DJs playing (side note: day clubs usually go from spring-fall)

Some of my favorites

Day clubs:

Encore
Marquee
Wet Republic

Night clubs:

Omnia: a must for at least one night
XS
Hakkasan

Honestly, though, you can look at each club’s schedule and I usually follow the DJ or performer that I want to see because all the clubs are usually a vibe! If you are going with your girls, make friends with promoters and they will hook you up. You can also find tickets online and get on a free guest list.