12 Things to Do in Downtown Las Vegas

What to do in downtown Las Vegas? Here’s your guide!

Las Vegas, known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a vibrant city where the excitement is constant, and the energy never dies. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a food lover, an explorer, or someone curious about what it’s like to ride a roller coaster on top of a hotel, Vegas has an array of unforgettable experiences for everyone. From world-class dining to spectacular performances and vibrant casinos, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some extra sunglasses), as we explore the list of things to do in Las Vegas!

The Sphere's innovative LED exterior and futuristic design made it an immediate sensation when it was first exhibited in Las Vegas in 2023. This spherical concert and entertainment venue is 366 feet tall and captivates visitors with its 1.2 million LED lights that create realistic images. Once viewed as otherworldly and alien, it now enthralls tourists as a futuristic marvel that changes into a metallic ball, flashing eye, or swirling snow globe.

Get ready for an exhilarating experience as Formula 1 turns the city of lights into the ultimate playground for speed, glamour, and excitement. From November 21 to 23, 2024, join them in downtown Las Vegas for the Formula 1 weekend. Enjoy live performances at East Harmon Zone featuring Big Boi and Vandelux, and at The Sphere Grandstands with OneRepublic and Ludacris. While the competitors navigate the tight curves of the famous track, visitors can indulge in delicious dinners at Papi Steak Garage or Ramsay's Garage.

The Bellagio, a renowned landmark in Las Vegas, offers a lavish experience for its guests. Visitors can take advantage of amenities such as World Poker Tour tournaments and high-stakes gaming. High rollers are drawn to its luxurious casino, while non-gamblers can appreciate the sophisticated atmosphere and various attractions. The hotel's famous fountains, featured in several films, present captivating light and water displays that dance to music every 15 to 30 minutes, enchanting visitors with their beauty.

Although Vegas can be seen in three days, if you only have time for one activity, make sure to visit the Venetian Resort and ride the gondola. Your gondolier will serenade you as you sail through a replica of Venice, complete with the Rialto Bridge and a glittering Grand Canal. When you get off your boat, explore the posh Grand Canal Shoppes, enjoy street performances, or have a gelato and experience Italy Thousands of kilometers away.

Caesars Palace is a Vegas Strip icon that opened in the 60s, offering a Roman-inspired casino, a luxury shopping area at The Forum Shops with 160 branded and local stores, and vibrant nightlife at Omnia Nightclub and Vanderpump Cocktail Garden. Entertainment is on another level at the Colosseum, hosting stars like Adele and Garth Brooks. Dining options include Nobu and the popular Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen, making this place a must-visit for gamblers, shoppers, and foodies alike.

Wondering what to do in downtown Las Vegas when traveling with kids? Mandalay Bay's Shark Reef Aquarium offers the best chance for a fun family outing. Visitors can see more than 2,000 marine animals including sharks, sea turtles, and jellyfish, as they navigate through a glass tunnel. A unique shipwreck exhibit and the opportunity to schedule an early-entry guided tour to feed stingrays are highlights of this facility that give this aquatic experience a more involved feel.

For adventurers in search of excitement in Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is a must-visit destination. Situated just 17 miles west of the Strip, it features striking red rock formations and stunning vistas of the Mojave Desert. It offers a peaceful sanctuary that is not to be missed. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking, or they can take a scenic drive along the 13-mile road. The highlights of this area include roads with beautiful views, clean restrooms, and an informative visitor center. For a pleasant outdoor experience, plan your morning activities to avoid the heat, and be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

The Hoover Dam spans the Colorado River and Black Canyon and has been supplying electricity to Nevada, Arizona, and California since 1935. It welcomes more than 7 million visitors a year and has a Visitor Center with interactive displays, such as a 10-minute movie and a model of a generator. For stunning views of the dam, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River check out the observation platform on the top floor. This place is perfect for both history enthusiasts and photographers.

Zip lines, axe-throwing, virtual reality arcades, and interactive art displays are just a few of the attractions available at Area 15 in Las Vegas. This place is a 200,000-square-foot immersive entertainment zone, and its unique atmosphere makes it reminiscent of Burning Man and "Alice in Wonderland." The rum-fueled Cirque act "Lost Spirits Distillery," Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, and other highlights make it a must-visit for anybody looking for unusual, mind-bending experiences.

The thrilling Vegas Indoor Skydiving allows visitors to experience skydiving without paying for an expensive airplane ride. Visitors can fly alone (even children can attempt it as long as they weigh 40 pounds or more), or you can gather six to ten members of family or friends for a 20-minute party that includes personalized instruction and a dedicated wind tunnel session.

Jump on a ride on High Roller, the biggest observation wheel in North America, to get breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline. For thirty minutes, you will travel in one of the 28 spacious, air-conditioned cabins, which at one point soar 550 feet above the Strip. To enjoy more bring some buddies with you, along with a few cocktails, as cabins can accommodate up to 40 people. Also, keep in mind that coolers and glass are not allowed.

The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens features stunning patterns, vibrant colors, and breathtaking beauty that draw visitors from across the country. This 14,000-square-foot garden transforms with the seasons, showcasing advanced water features, live plants, and floral arrangements. In addition to the unique seasonal displays, there is a special garden dedicated to the Lunar New Year each year.