Prior to my USA trip, I was trudging through pages of research trying to find the best things to do in Las Vegas. I got sick of seeing ‘Coca Cola store’ and ‘Ceasars Eiffel Tower’. These were great to look at, but took a whole 6 seconds. When I am planning my trips, I want to be kept busy, I want things to actually do or shows to watch, things that excite me or are new! Or at the very least keep more occupied for a little longer. This blog is all about just that and as a bonus they are completely free. 

Casino’s

Casinos…The ultimate destination for Las Vegas voyagers. Now of course you can gamble in these eye dazzling establishments, but that costs money, so it’s not going on this list. However, Casinos in Las Vegas have a unique gravitational pull, often with free shows or exhibits.  

1. Flamingo- True to its name, with a fabulous flamingo pink theme throughout the casino, it is home to a flamingo habitat. You can stroll through the gardens which have fountains, statues and of course, the birds themselves. Simply walk through the casino and out the back doors. 
2. Mirage- At night, a volcano display erupts with lights, sounds and fire. Always popular but worth the tussle through the crowds to get the prime spot. 
3. Venetian- Sometimes known as ‘Little Italy’, can make you forget your in the deserts of Nevada. With architecture, rivers, boats and bridges to mimic Venice, it is a great area for pictures. You can also peruse at the grand canal shops. 
4. Golden nugget– Challenge yourself to navigate through this casino to find the Golden hand of faith without asking for direction. The treasure you will find is the largest piece of gold ever uncovered. 
5. Bellagio- Grand, intricate and almost royal, this casino will have you feeling exclusive. Home to the conservatory and botanical gardens. Large flower displays bursting with life and colour. Renovated for different seasons and was under a change during my visit, but the snippets I could catch a glimpse of were eye catching. 
6. Circus Circus– Free shows almost every hour performing multitudes of acts such as trapeze, acrobats, clowns and more! I got to gaze at the amazing acrobats soaring through the sky and attempt to beat the record for flips. Near the stage there is a daily schedule where you can see what free acts will be shown. 

7. Las Vegas sign

Have you really been to Las Vegas if you don’t have a picture with the sign? I would recommend visiting at night as you can see the sandwiched sign between the palms without the crowds. Easily access it via the Deuce bus or you can really get your steps in and walk to the very end of the strip. 

8. Fremont street

Fremont street is a whole experience that can be had without paying a penny. You stride down the street with neon lights to either side, fellow visitors fly overhead on ziplines, eager buskers catch your eye as they execute fascinating acts. Las Vegas ladies posing for pics, performers captivating crowds on various stages and all other attendees laughing, dancing and drinking. The vibe is immaculate. Choose to just experience (free) or you can join in on the drinking and/ eating.

Chocolate

9. On the bus route you can visit the M&M store. Plenty of photo opportunities and M&M’s in colours you hadn’t even imagined.

10. Ethel m chocolates and cactus garden is a little off the strip but allows you to give yourself a free tour of the factory to see how it’s all made.

Ones still on my list

11. Free Line dancing lessons 
12. Container park
13. Magic Mountains (a little out of the way)
14. Pinball hall of fame
15. Lake of dreams

Shanni’s Tips

-Majority of your Las Vegas Venture will be down the strip (very long strip). Deuce Bus will cover the whole route with stops at all tourist attractions.  $8 for 24hrs

-Resort fees are prevalent all across the city and you will be expected to pay them even at hostels. So you might as well make sure you are paying for a good resort. Check what is included and what each casino offers before you book e.g. Free shows, Discounts, waterslides through shark tanks (Golden nugget). 

-With the supersized buildings and bright lights, it is easy to forget you are in the middle of a desert. Remember to drink water, especially in summer months.  

I hope this has added some activities to your plan for Las Vegas. You can make it’s slow or fast itinerary. As I used Las Vegas as a place to ground my boots for national park tours– I did activates 1-9 in 2 days, with no real relaxation but lots of fun. If constantly occupied isn’t your style, add in some pool time or just pick a few!

P.s Apologies for photo quality. I lost my phone in NYC and could not recover my pictures.