With activities for every age, interest, and price point, you can still catch the sights without spending a dime. Here are our top 10 things to see and do in Vegas for free.
Fountains of Bellagio
One of the biggest icons of Las Vegas, the Fountains of Bellagio have long been a destination of their own. The famous dancing lights have been set to all music genres, from classical pieces to club tunes, and are a must-see for every Las Vegas visitor. While hours vary, the fountain shows typically occur every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes from 7 p.m. to midnight daily (shows may be canceled if the weather is poor or windy).
Fountains of Bellagio (©Nick Fewings/Unsplash)
Bellagio Conservatory
The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a destination you can repeatedly visit without having the same experience twice. With seasonal displays that change every few months, it’s a perfect spot to see every time you’re in Las Vegas. If you’re curious to know what displays to expect on your trip, check the website ahead of time! Bonus- while you’re there, stop by the front desk and look up to see the stunning Fiori di Como glass flowers by artist Dale Chihuly.
2020 Spring Display at Bellagio Conservatory (Courtesy of MGM Resorts)
Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
If you didn’t get a photo of the world-famous Welcome sign, did you really come to Las Vegas? Before the addition of its own parking lot and crosswalk, getting that perfect photo was once a risky endeavor that often required jaywalking across multiple lanes of traffic to reach the sign. Drivers on the Strip could often spot groups of tourists making that mad dash (even more interesting when made in a wedding gown). Looking for a fun souvenir? Find miniature versions of the sign in gift shops all over the city.
Welcome to Las Vegas Sign (©David Vives/Unsplash)
Neon Museum Walking Tour DTLV
If you’re hoping to multitask your visit in Downtown Las Vegas, you can enjoy some of the city’s vintage neon signs in action at the same time. Presented by the Neon Museum, these former icons of the city are scattered throughout the downtown area and provide some great photo ops both day and night. Even better- the Neon Museum has a free walking tour guide on their website that allows you to enjoy a little Vegas history while visiting the downtown district.
The Silver Slipper in DTLV (©NeONBRAND/Unsplash)
Seven Magic Mountains
Just a short drive away from the city, the Seven Magic Mountains are the perfect stop for every Instagrammer. Though they’ve been vandalized numerous times, the colorful monoliths by artist Ugo Rondinone have withstood the rigors of the desert since 2016. Venture down the I-15 towards Jean & Good Springs to find them and be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions- the wind picks up in seconds out here, so make sure you have something to protect your eyes from the sand.
Seven Magic Mountains (©Melanie Lee)
LOVE
This massive sculptural art installation located between Venetian and Palazzo Las Vegas is a year-round favorite with visitors and locals alike. By artist Laura Kimpton, Love can be found in the Waterfall Atrium. Tip- If you’re hoping to get the perfect shot, try early mornings or late evenings for a more empty photo in the atrium. You can also get another great viewpoint of the sculpture from the escalators.
Laura Kimpton’s Love Sculpture at Venetian (©Melanie Lee)
Lake of Dreams and Wynn Atrium
The newest show in Las Vegas is free at Wynn Las Vegas. The brand new Lake of Dreams show can be viewed from the Parasol Lounge and combines animatronics with music and stunning light effects. Catch the show starting at dusk each night (it runs every 30 minutes) and make sure to also take a walk through the Wynn Atrium for some gorgeous floral displays such as the rotating floral carousel or moving hot air balloon by artist Preston Bailey.
Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas (©Eric Jamison)
DTLV Murals & Sculptures
Home to the annual Life is Beautiful festival, Downtown Las Vegas has hosted stunning murals and art installations for years with often changing pieces being swapped out yearly. Most of the murals are along Fremont Street but wander towards some of the side streets as well and you’ll often find some hidden treasures. Before you leave the Downtown area, make sure to get a shot of Slotzilla as well!
Downtown Las Vegas Art (©Melanie Lee)
Ethel M Cactus Garden
In addition to being home to a chocolate factory, Ethel M’s main Vegas location also has a rather stunning cactus garden. Host to a number of seasonal holiday displays, it’s a wonderful spot for visitors of all ages. Stop inside to see the Viewing Aisle and get a real look at what goes on inside the chocolate factory before picking up some sweet souvenirs in the shop.
Ethel M Cactus Garden (©Melanie Lee)
