35 Free Things to Do in Las Vegas

These free things to do in Las Vegas cover the free shows in Vegas, free entertainment, and free attractions; perfect for visiting Las Vegas on a budget.

When looking at whether Las Vegas is Expensive or not, it can be easy to say yes, of course! However, by budgeting a trip carefully, taking advantage of these free attractions in Las Vegas, and knowing what to avoid in Vegas, you can easily visit here without overspending.

If this is your first time in Vegas, make sure to prioritize these sights, as not only are they free but they also include some of the best attractions in Vegas.

Free things to do in Las Vegas

1. The Aquarium at the Silverton

With over 160 species of fish and open 24 hours a day, the Aquarium is a fantastic free attraction based in the Silverton Hotel. Holding more than 117,000 gallons, this attraction is perhaps one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas.

Don’t miss the mermaid shows; you can even have a meal during the performances!

2. Fall of Atlantis at Caesar Palace

This is an upscale shopping mall on the Las Vegas Strip and is the highest-grossing mall in the US. 

Within the Fall of Atlantis, you can find a collection of statues that come to life during a special effect and lighting show that are completely free. The show plays every hour, on the hour, starting from 11 am. Also, check out the 50,000-gallon aquarium while you are there. 

3. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat

Situated in the Flamingo Hotel, this is a surprise for many Vegas visitors and another one of the top free things to do in Las Vegas.

Beat the heat, escape the crowds of the strip, and enjoy these beautiful creatures up close. The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is an idyllic escape with a four-acre garden, waterfalls, exotic birds, turtles, fish, and streams. 

4. Bellagio Fountains

This is one of the most popular attractions in Las Vegas and for good reason. From 3 pm the fountains dance to music every 30 minutes, then every 15 minutes after 7 pm. 

Head inside the Bellagio to see the beautiful Italian theming and, for a special experience, head to Lago or Prime Steakhouse for a delicious meal with views of the famous fountains. 

While here, make sure to check out the buffet, as this hotel is home to one of the best buffets in Las Vegas.

5. Fremont Street Experience

Yes, you can spend money in the casinos, bars, and restaurants of Fremont Street but the street itself is worth visiting and experiencing with its old-style lights and ceiling light show. As another one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas, this area is fun to explore. There is live music every night from 6 pm and plenty of downtown attractions to enjoy.

The Viva Vision is the world’s largest digital display, running hourly from 6 pm to 2 am every night. It recently had a $32 million upgrade, making this experience a whole lot more mind-blowing!

6. The Park

Hidden away between New York, New York, and Monte Carlo is The Park; a walkway and park with intriguing sculptures, free wi-fi, and plenty of seating area.

As another one of the popular free things to do in Las Vegas, this is ideal for those looking for a bit of an escape from the strip. There is also a popular dance sculpture and water walls as well as occasional outdoor performances.

7. Garage Art

A lesser-known attraction is the Garage Art found in the car park of The Cosmopolitan

They have allowed their garage doors to become a canvas for artists and of course, it is completely free to enjoy.

8. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

This is a unique place and a must-visit in Las Vegas and in my opinion, one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas. It is beautifully decorated and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Opposite the front desk, the garden display changes seasonally and is worth admiring. 

Visit during the Christmas holidays or Lunar New Year for special decorations; we love the Winter Wonderland on the lead-up to Christmas (it includes a 42-foot-tall fir tree, a cozy Swiss chalet and Santa’s sleigh! 

9. Street performers

One of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas is to walk along the strip and enjoy the street performers. There is everything you could imagine and more – break dancing, singers, graffiti artists, musicians, cartoon characters, and more.

10. Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

A trip to Vegas is not complete without that iconic photo in front of the Las Vegas Sign. The landmark was founded in May 1959 and has stood at 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South ever since. This is around one mile south of Mandalay Bay. 

The easiest way to get to the sign is by driving a car but make sure to drive south on Las Vegas to be able to access the sign parking area. 

11. Bonnie and Clyde’s Death Car Exhibit

Found just off the strip, head to the Whiskey Pete’s Casino and Hotel to see the Bonnie and Clyde death car, along with some interesting facts.

The famous pair were ambushed by officers near Sailes, Bienville Parish, Louisiana on May 23rd 1934. It was one of the most spectacular manhunts that the nation had ever seen at that time.

12. The Circus

The Circus Circus hotel offers free circus performances every half hour from 11 am. Head to the upstairs level of Midway and enjoy the 40-minute performance. This is one of many free things to do in Las Vegas with kids and the mini-theme park inside Circus Circus makes for a great day out too.

13. Fountain Show at Miracle Mile Shops

Head to the mall to see a small but beautiful light show – on the hour, every hour from 12 pm to 11 pm.

The feature includes water effects and eruptions five stories high as well as color-changing fog and light bursts; all timed to a dramatic original soundtrack. 

14. ARIA Fine Art Collection

Within the Aria campus, you will uncover the Fine Art Collection; Vegas’ first permanent public art space. Aria commissioned works from 15 acclaimed painters, sculptors and visionaries to create this unique art collection in Vegas. 

The collection is free to see and open 7 days a week.

15. The World’s brightest light beam

Whilst wandering the strip at night, look over to the Luxor hotel. You will see a beam shining to the heavens; this is the world’s brightest light beam.

16. Visit the Eiffel Tower

Head over to the Paris hotel and admire the replica of the iconic landmark. The whole hotel should be explored during your visit, with fantastic theming, elegant casino, Parisian replicas and plenty of amazing restaurants and bars to enjoy. 

Exploring and admiring the Eiffel Tower is free but heading up the tower itself will cost you, with ticket prices starting at $24.50. 

17. Experience Venice

Within The Venetian hotel, you will find canal shoppes complete with Italian singers and gondolas. Visiting the hotel is a must during your visit, with the theming being some of the best in Las Vegas. 

Head through the impressive entrance before exploring the incredible interior. The hotel is also home to the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, gondola rides on the water canals, and a replica of St Mark’s Square complete with street performers. 

18. Extravagant shops

Something we spent some time doing in Vegas, was checking out the shops! Visit the giant Coca-Cola store (complete with a giant Cola bottle as an entrance) or enjoy the theming and chocolate galore in the M&M World.

19. Ethel M Chocolate Factory

Head over to this Chocolate factory and take a FREE self-guided tour. Sample some chocolate and check out the Botanical Cactus Gardens while you are here.

This is a free attraction and a great choice for foodies and families. 

20. Movie Locations

Many movies are filmed in Las Vegas so make sure you check out the locations – the lobby in Ceasars Palace was used for the Hangover movie whilst the Bellagio fountains were highlighted in Ocean’s 11.

21. The Biggest Golden Nugget

Head to the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino to see the biggest Golden Nugget in existence! Head to the casino and enjoy free drinks whilst you play then explore downtown Fremont Street for cheap drinks and cheap tables (well, cheaper than the strip prices).

22. Pawn Shops

If you are a fan of the TV program Pawn Stars, head to 713 South Las Vegas Boulevard to see the Pawnshop from the program.

23. Anderson Dairy

Head over to the Anderson Diary factory to organize a free guided tour of the dairy factory – and enjoy free ice cream too!

24. Downtown Container Park

Head down to Fremont Street and check out the container park; an open-air shopping and entertainment venue using repurposed shipping containers. This can be one of the more relaxing things to do in Las Vegas, especially in the cooler months.

25. Napoleon’s Dueling Pianos

Head to Napoleon’s Dueling Pianos in the evening to watch a spectacular performance of Dueling Pianists! Great fun and affordable drinks.

26. World’s Largest Gift Shop: Bonanza

For a quirky and fun shopping experience, head to Bonanza Gift Shop, officially known as the World’s Largest Gift Shop.

This massive retail space has been a Las Vegas staple for decades, offering an overwhelming selection of souvenirs, T-shirts, collectibles, and novelty items.

From classic Vegas-themed memorabilia to wacky trinkets, visitors can find just about anything here.

27. Mermaid Show at the Silverton Hotel and Casino

This show is on 3 times a day in the Aquarium at the Silverton Hotel. The mermaids swim around, performing tricks, and are also great with kids!

28. Music at Le Cabaret Bar inside the Paris Las Vegas Hotel

Live bands and musicians play here every night, from 6 pm onwards. We found this open-air-styled bar a romantic spot to unwind after a long day of exploring.

29. Lake of Dreams Show at Wynn

Another one of the free things to do in Las Vegas is the Lake of Dreams Show at Wynn, arguably one of the best hotels in Las Vegas. This is a mesmerizing multimedia spectacle featuring a 40-foot waterfall, dazzling lights, and animated visual projections set against a stunning man-made lake.

This free nighttime show combines music, holographic, and whimsical imagery, making it a must-see attraction for visitors to the Wynn.

Hidden behind the hotel’s lush foliage, the show offers a magical escape with its dreamlike storytelling, which includes singing frogs, floating orbs, and surreal landscapes. The best views can be enjoyed from the Parasol Down lounge or the open terrace above.

30. Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail near Lake Mead

For outdoor lovers, the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail offers a scenic hike through five large tunnels carved into the cliffs surrounding Lake Mead. This is another one of the free things to do in Las Vegas, although does require a drive to, as it is located on the outskirts of the city.

Originally used to transport materials for the construction of the Hoover Dam, this 3.7-mile (one-way) trail now serves as a historical and recreational site.

The mostly flat path provides breathtaking views of the lake, desert landscapes, and even occasional sightings of bighorn sheep. It’s a great way to explore a piece of history while enjoying a peaceful outdoor adventure.

31. Seven Magic Mountains

A striking pop of color in the Nevada desert, Seven Magic Mountains is a large-scale land art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.

Featuring seven towering stacks of neon-painted boulders, this free outdoor exhibit is located just 10 miles south of the Las Vegas Strip. The vibrant rock formations stand in stark contrast to the surrounding desert landscape, making it a popular destination for art lovers and Instagram-worthy photo seekers.

Originally planned as a temporary display, the exhibit has been extended due to its immense popularity.

32. Springs Preserve Trails

The Springs Preserve Trails offer a tranquil escape into nature, showcasing native plants, wildlife, and historical exhibits about Las Vegas’ early settlers. This is a fun day trip from Sin City and makes for interesting free things to do in Las Vegas.

The preserve features over three miles of walking trails that weave through gardens, desert landscapes, and remnants of an ancient water source that once sustained indigenous peoples.

While some parts of the Springs Preserve require an admission fee, the trails themselves are free to explore, making them a great option for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the region.

33. Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art

The Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, located on the UNLV campus, is a contemporary art museum featuring rotating exhibits of modern, indigenous, and experimental artwork. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for art enthusiasts.

The museum focuses on local and global artists, showcasing a diverse range of media including paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital installations.

The Barrick Museum also serves as a cultural hub, hosting lectures, performances, and community events that explore the intersection of art, identity, and society.

34. Pinball Hall of Fame

A paradise for arcade lovers, the Pinball Hall of Fame is a massive, 25,000-square-foot museum filled with classic pinball machines from the 1950s to the 1990s.

Visitors can admire and play hundreds of vintage games, many of which have been lovingly restored.

Unlike typical museums, the Pinball Hall of Fame is interactive—each game is fully operational and available to play for just a few cents per round. Run as a nonprofit organization, the venue donates proceeds to charity, making it a fun and meaningful stop for both nostalgia seekers and gaming enthusiasts.

35. Palazzo Waterfall Atrium

Inside the Palazzo Hotel, the Waterfall Atrium is a breathtaking indoor garden featuring lush floral arrangements, towering waterfalls, and seasonal decor.

The atrium’s design changes throughout the year, incorporating themed displays for holidays and special occasions.

This tranquil space offers a peaceful retreat from the casino floor, where visitors can admire the artistry of the floral arrangements and capture stunning photos. The elegant ambiance of the Palazzo makes this one of the most visually captivating free things to do in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas on a budget F.A.Q

Is $1000 enough for 4 days in Vegas?

This depends on what activities you want to do and where you stay. Staying in places like New York New York or Luxor, enjoying these free things to do in Las Vegas and sticking to the eateries and grocery store meals, you can definietly spend under $1000. Budget wisely because Las Vegas doesn’t have to be super expensive. 

How can I get around for free in Vegas?

Use the free Downtown Loop shuttle, which travels between various attractions and hotels. 

Can you still drink for free in Vegas?

Yes, you will get free drinks as long as you are gambling and playing at slotmachines or table games. Smaller casinos may not honor this custom but most major hotels along the strip do. 

How do I get a complimentary upgrade in Vegas?

When checking in, you can ask if there are any complimentary upgrades available; they can only say yes or no! If you collect reward points or have a credit card associated with a hotel chain, this can also be a good way to be upgraded. 

What are your favorite free things to do in Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments!

---