Neon lights, world-famous attractions, 24/7 casinos, breathtaking entertainment, it can only be Las Vegas! One of the world’s most exciting and memorable destinations, Vegas quickly pulls you in and doesn’t let go until you board your plane home again! There’s a lot to see and do here, and those who fondly describe Vegas as an “assault on the senses” aren’t wrong! But beyond the casinos, Vegas is bursting with must-see landmarks that are part of its character and its colorful history, so it makes perfect sense to weave in some time visiting and exploring these landmarks as part of your trip to the Entertainment Capital of the World!
But which ones should you see? And which landmarks should first-time visitors have right at the top of their lists? In this post, we’ll take a much closer look at all the iconic spots in Vegas that no one should miss.
Hotels and Accommodation
Before you start planning which landmarks to go out and visit, you need to make sure you have the right accommodation sorted. It makes sense to look for the latest and best Vegas hotel deals before you travel so that your stay is comfortable, affordable, and has everything you need to make your trip extra special. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.
Location: Staying on the main Strip will always mean being close to the action, and Vegas is larger than people think, so if you don’t want to walk too much in the heat between attractions, then consider a stay at one of the many resorts or hotels on the main strip. If getting around the city is part of the charm of your break to Vegas, then Downtown might be preferable; it’s usually cheaper and offers a more historic and affordable experience.
Family Vs Adults Only: If you’re visiting with your family, then you’ll have plenty of family-friendly resorts, with family-focused dining, fun, suites, and pools to keep everyone happy. But if you prefer your trip to be adults only, then Vegas can certainly accommodate, with hundreds of options catering to adults only, you can expect style, great amenities, nightlife, and entertainment.
Always Book in Advance: Booking in advance is a must in Vegas, particularly if you want to keep the cost of your trip down as much as possible. Don’t wait, start comparing and looking for the best Vegas hotel deals now, and strike while the iron is hot!
Things to See on the Strip
The beating heart of Las Vegas and home to many of its most iconic landmarks, the Strip is a great place to start. The Bellagio Fountains are an amazing (and free) spectacle that showcases music, lights, and carefully choreographed water that makes for a perfect photo op. While the Paris Las Vegas and its replica Eiffel Tower offer a panoramic view of the Strip itself. If you want to be transported to Venice, then head to the Venetian and take a gondola ride through the winding canals and carefully themed hotel – it’s a great experience you won’t want to miss.
Downtown Vegas and Fremont Street
Want to know where Vegas began? Head away from the glitz and glamour of the Strip and head Downtown. This part of the city is full of history, character, and a different kind of energy that makes it a must-visit. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.
Fremont Street Experience: A huge LED canopy that stretches across five blocks, this breathtaking landmark is a must-see, with visitors gathering to watch the Viva Vision Light Show, where music and millions of lights create a dazzling spectacle overhead. Here you’ll also find an abundance of street performers, musicians, and artists who all add to the atmosphere. You might even want to try SlotZilla, a zipline that flies right under the canopy!
Historic Casinos: Do you want to know more about the history of Las Vegas? Here you can explore old casinos like the Golden Nugget and El Cortez, which will give you a taste of what Vegas used to be like before the big resorts. The Golden Nugget is known for its giant shark tank (yes, you can swim in a pool right next to it), while El Cortez, one of the city’s oldest continuously running casinos, retains its vintage charm. It’s incredibly relaxed here, and you might find the authenticity of it all quite refreshing!
Quirky & Offbeat Spots
While its glamorous casinos and famous landmarks get all the attention, Las Vegas is also home to some unique and offbeat landmarks! Visiting any of these spots will certainly add some extra fun and character to your visit.
AREA15: Often described as an “experimental art and amusement wonderland,” AREA15 is a cutting-edge immersive entertainment and art complex just minutes from The Strip. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, virtual reality experiences, themed bars, live performances, and art installations, including Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, a 360° observation deck. Entry is free, but you’ll need to reserve a pass as capacity is limited.
Pinball Hall of Fame: If you love arcade games, then this iconic destination is a must-see. This unique museum houses hundreds of vintage pinball machines from the 1950s to the 1990s. They’re all playable too; visitors just need to bring along some quarters. It’s affordable, fun for everyone, and a great opportunity to escape the heat and the commotion of the main Strip. Not only that, but as the collection is run by volunteers, and proceeds go to charity, it adds a feel-good factor to your visit!
Final Thoughts
So, as you can see, Vegas is so much more than just casinos and bright lights. It’s a city packed with unique attractions and landmarks you won’t forget in a hurry. When planning your visit, remember to combine some big iconic moments with a generous helping of quirky and offbeat finds for a truly memorable trip! And remember, no matter how many times you visit Vegas, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
