15 Best Things to do in Vegas besides Gambling (2025)

Discover these unforgettable things to do in Vegas besides gambling; from iconic hotels & shows to the Neon Museum and nearby canyons.

Las Vegas is just incredible and offers so many things to see and do. We actually got engaged here and there are so many romantic things to do in Las Vegas! In honesty, it isn’t a place you go to ‘find yourself’ and ‘explore an interesting culture’… it is a place you can go and have fun, relax and let lose a bit. On that note, here are 15 things to do in Vegas besides gambling.

Best things to do in Vegas besides Gambling

1. Explore the hotels

Our first best things to do in Vegas besides gambling, has to be the iconic hotels here.

It may sound obvious but one of the best things to do in Vegas is to explore and enjoy the magnificently themed and over-the-top Vegas hotels. The south of the strip is home to New York, New York, Luxor (the Egyptian-themed resort), fairy tale resort Excalibur and Mandalay bay with its shark habitat; the hotels are often one of the top reasons to visit Las Vegas.

The Cosmopolitan, in the centre of the strip, is a favorite of mine; with its sweeping and impressive chandelier and crystal glittery objects everywhere. Spend some time visiting the Eiffel Tower in the Paris hotel followed by a viewing of the Bellagio fountains performance to music – just opposite the Paris hotel in the centre of the strip.

For Hangover fans, head to Caesars Palace for its elaborate theming or watch the Volcano eruption at The Mirage on the north end of the strip. Another favourite of mine is The Venetian Hotel; it’s worth spending some time in its popular shopping area or taking a Gondola along the Venice-styled waterways.

2. Fremont Street Experience

Head to Fremont Street for an evening of fun and gambling for half the price of the strip and another one of the fun things to do in Vegas besides gambling. Here you can find some of the original casinos that made Vegas so infamous; a must on your Las Vegas bucket list.

A light show plays across the canopy ceiling during the evenings and you may even choose to take a Zipline across the top of this street.

There are plenty of bars and casinos to keep you entertained including the famous Heart Attack Grill. You can get a photo with a million dollars cash in Binion’s Casino or check out the massive Shark Tank (as seen on TV) at the Golden Nugget hotel – rather impressive even if you don’t watch or have ever heard of the show.

A few blocks down you can explore the Mob Museum or for the daredevils, why not try a scorpion shot at Nacho Daddy. The street is a little further out from the strip so jump on a DEUCE bus for a cheap ride.

3. Stratosphere

Although this hotel is quite far from the central strip, the Stratosphere is worth a visit and is popular with residents and tourists alike. You can choose to take a Sky Jump from the tower’s deck or ride the Big Shot, X-Scream or Insanity ride; with all rides towering over the city of Las Vegas and rather stomach-wrenching!

For a more relaxed time at the Stratosphere, head to the Observation Deck in the early evening and watch the sunset over the desert and strip or wine and dine at the Top of the World revolving restaurant. There are lots of things to do in Las Vegas for Couples and a meal at the top of the Stratosphere is one of our favourite; making this another one of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling.

4. Head to a club

For nightlife options when looking at the things to do in Vegas besides gambling, head to the nightclubs here.

Check out a DJ at one of the hot Vegas clubs. Hakkasan is a favourite of ours, found in MGM with residence DJs including Tiesto and Hardwell. Avoid the queues by booking tickets on the club’s website beforehand.

Book your tickets for the nightclub entrance before you head out to save money and massively cut down the queue for entrance.

5. See a show

Whether it’s a Cirque De Soleil or an ageing singer, nothing beats the over-the-top glitz and glamour of a Vegas Show. Book tickets in advance for cheaper prices to enjoy one of these exciting things to do in Vegas besides gambling.

When looking at things to avoid in Vegas, we definitely encourage you to find the best deals on vegas shows but also choose which show is best for you as well.

Our top choice would be the Beatles-inspired performance entitled LOVE at The Mirage, cheap tickets can be found on BestofVegas.com and AttractionTix.

Remember Cirque De Soleil theatres are usually fairly small so there is no need to sit near the front, save money by sitting further away but still get an impressive view.

6. The Linq wheel

Located at The Linq hotel, The Ling Wheel is an exciting observation deck, giving you panoramic views of Vegas. This can be one of the more romantic things to do in Vegas besides gambling but is also ideal for families and friends.

Rising 550 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, the High Roller is one of the tallest observation wheels in the world and offers unbeatable 360-degree views of the city. Each spacious cabin provides a smooth, 30-minute rotation, giving you plenty of time to take in the glittering skyline, iconic hotels, and distant desert mountains.

The area itself is easy to access via the nearby hotels like the Flamingo and The Cromwell and there are plenty of places to eat and shop nearby. During our visit for Wrestlemania, we enjoyed cheaper meals at The Yard House, located in this area.

7. Adventure Dome

Visit Vegas’ own mini indoor theme park based in the Circus Circus hotel. Rides can be paid for individually or all-day passes are available for $31.95 for an adult pass, with the park open from 10 am to midnight.

This is one of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling especially with kids; filling a day at an indoor attraction, perfect for those warmer times of the year.

8. Neon Museum

A little hidden gem, the Neon Museum Boneyard is where all the old neon signs are stored. Hour tours can be booked via the website with day and night tours available.

Step back in time at the Neon Museum, where retired neon signs from former casinos, hotels, and businesses are preserved in an open-air “boneyard.” Here, giant, colorful signs glow softly at dusk, providing a nostalgic and artful glimpse into old Las Vegas.

Guided tours offer stories behind each sign, revealing the city’s history and how its visual identity evolved. It’s a photographer’s dream — especially when the lights come on at night, giving an otherworldly, retro feel.

9. Bryce, Grand or Red Rock Canyon

Apart from the heat, there is little else about Vegas that would remind you that you’re in the middle of a desert. Rent a car or join a tour group and head out to visit one, two or all of the nearby Canyons and national parks.

These can make for some great day trips from Las Vegas and one of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling, especially if you want to break up those days around the strip.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Valley of Fire

Just an hour northeast of Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire State Park offers one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the region, making it a perfect non-gambling escape. The park is known for its vibrant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and winding scenic roads that showcase millions of years of geological history.

You can hike short, iconic trails like Fire Wave, White Domes, or Mouse’s Tank, each offering dramatic views and photo-ready rock formations. Whether you go for a sunrise hike or spend the whole day exploring, the Valley of Fire provides peace, fresh air, and awe-inspiring desert scenery far removed from the Strip’s fast-paced energy.

11. FlyOver in Las Vegas

For a high-tech, immersive experience, FlyOver offers a “flying theater” ride unlike any other on the Strip.

You’ll be gently suspended in front of a gigantic spherical screen, simulating the sensation of gliding over some of the American West’s most iconic landscapes — from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park.

The experience is enhanced by effects like wind, mist, and even scents, making it truly lifelike. Plus, there’s a pre-show that plays on wrap-around screens to build the excitement, and after the ride, you can relax at the full-service bar.

12. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just a short drive from the Strip lies Red Rock Canyon, a natural escape from the neon lights. This vast conservation area features towering red sandstone cliffs, desert trails, and scenic overlooks.

You can hike various trails, bike along the scenic loop, or simply drive through and pull over at lookout points. For rock climbers, the sandstone formations are a draw, while those just looking to relax can catch a stunning desert sunset.

It’s a refreshing contrast to the hustle of Vegas, offering peace, wide-open space, and natural beauty.

13. Springs Preserve

If you’re looking for something more educational and nature-focused, Springs Preserve is a hidden gem in Vegas.

Situated a few miles west of downtown, this 180-acre site preserves the original Las Vegas Springs and features beautifully landscaped desert botanical gardens, interactive museum galleries, and walking trails through wetlands.

There’s also an indoor theater, photo exhibit, and sustainable architecture in the Desert Living Center. It’s a peaceful, insightful place where you can learn about the city’s environmental history, desert ecology, and how Las Vegas managed its water — a thoughtful break from the glitz of the Strip. 

14. Ride the Las Vegas Monorail

For a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to see the Strip from a different perspective, hop on the Las Vegas Monorail. The sleek, air-conditioned trains glide above traffic, offering elevated views of major resorts and landmarks as they travel from the MGM Grand to the Sahara.

It’s a practical attraction as well as a sightseeing experience — you can use it to explore different parts of the Strip without the stress of driving or long walks in the desert heat.

With frequent departures and quick travel times between stations, the monorail is a convenient and enjoyable way to experience Las Vegas beyond the casino floors and one of the more efficient and relaxing things to do in Vegas besides gambling.

15. Explore the Mob Museum

For history lovers or anyone curious about Las Vegas’ colourful past, the Mob Museum offers an immersive look into organized crime in America and the efforts taken to combat it.

Located in a restored courthouse downtown, the museum features interactive exhibits, real artifacts from mob history, and multimedia displays that unravel the city’s connection to notorious crime figures.

You can explore recreated crime scenes, learn about the rise of the mob in Las Vegas, and even step inside the Prohibition-era Speakeasy in the basement. It’s an engaging and informative attraction that adds depth and context to the city’s evolution beyond entertainment and gaming.

---

Free things to do in Las Vegas

Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling FAQ

What can you do in Vegas if you don’t gamble?
Las Vegas offers endless non-gambling activities, including visiting museums, watching world-class shows, exploring natural attractions like Red Rock Canyon, visiting trendy restaurants and bars, shopping, and enjoying unique experiences like the High Roller, FlyOver Vegas, or the Neon Museum.

Is Las Vegas still fun if you don’t like gambling?
Absolutely — many visitors never gamble at all. The city is packed with entertainment options such as concerts, Cirque du Soleil shows, immersive attractions, themed hotels, day trips to nearby parks, incredible dining, and free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and Fremont Street.

What is the best free thing to do in Vegas besides gamble?
The Bellagio Fountain show is one of the top free attractions, offering daily water displays set to music. Other great free activities include the Fremont Street light show, exploring the hotels on the Strip, and visiting the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat.

What are the best outdoor activities in Las Vegas?
For outdoor lovers, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and the Hoover Dam are all fantastic day trips. You can hike desert trails, enjoy scenic drives, go rock climbing, or take guided tours. Within the city, the LINQ Promenade and The Park offer outdoor dining and entertainment.

What are the best museums to visit in Las Vegas?
Popular museums include the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, the Titanic Artifact Exhibition, the National Atomic Testing Museum, and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. Each offers a unique look into history, culture, or science.

What can families do in Vegas besides gamble?
Families can enjoy the High Roller, Shark Reef Aquarium, FlyOver, the Adventuredome theme park, M&M’s World, the Discovery Children’s Museum, and various shows suitable for kids. Day trips to Red Rock Canyon or Springs Preserve are also great for families.

What are some romantic things to do in Vegas without gambling?
Romantic options include riding the High Roller at sunset, enjoying a gondola ride at The Venetian, booking a helicopter flight over the Strip, watching a Cirque du Soleil show, dining at a rooftop restaurant, or stargazing during a night tour outside the city.

Is Las Vegas expensive if you don’t gamble?
It depends on your activities. Many attractions, shows, and restaurants can be pricey, but there are also plenty of free and affordable things to do in Vegas besides gambling. Walking the Strip, free shows, happy hours, budget-friendly day trips, and using the monorail can help keep costs down.

What can you do at night in Vegas besides gamble?
Nighttime activities include visiting rooftop bars, exploring Fremont Street, watching the Mirage Volcano or Bellagio Fountain shows, catching concerts or comedy shows, enjoying nightlife on the Strip, or walking through immersive attractions like AREA15.

How many days do you need in Vegas if you’re not gambling?
Three to four days is ideal for most travellers. This allows time to explore the Strip, see a show, visit a few attractions, enjoy great meals, and take a day trip to places like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam.