So, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, right?
No, but there are a few well-kept secrets that Las Vegans prefer to keep to themselves. One of the best-kept Las Vegas secrets is that not only do we have the most hotel rooms per capita, but Las Vegas locals have also been able to thrive (and have a lot of fun) in this tourist city by taking advantage of free, yes free, shows, events, and exhibits on the Las Vegas strip. If you are planning a fun trip to Las Vegas with your friends or moving here, here is a list of the top 10 free things to do in Las Vegas, apart from going to some of the best shows.
The Bellagio Light and Water Fountain Show
If you’re sitting on the patio of one of Las Vegas’s finest restaurants, you shouldn’t be surprised if you think you’re in the heart of Lake Como in Italy. The city of lights takes pride in its many man-made lakes on the strip; the one at the Bellagio will undoubtedly make you forget that you are standing in the middle of the hot, dry Mohave Desert. A light show, loud music, and spouting water jets fly up into the heavens, casting a bouquet of delight in the air. Although exact times are not available, the show will most likely be seen in the evenings, beginning in the afternoon. The best views are from the Paris across the street, Mon Amie Gabi, which offers terrace seating with front-row views of the show, or Circo restaurant at the Bellagio.
When: Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Saturday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
every 30 minutes until 7:00 p.m., then every 15 minutes until midnight.
Due to high winds, the show may have to cancel performances.
The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino
Various birds and other animals live on an island surrounded by streams and waterfalls just beyond the hotel entrance and casino. There are over 300 birds in total, including a flock of brilliant pink flamingos. You’ll also see penguins, swans, ducks, Koi fish, and swimming turtles can be found in the stream.
When: Every day, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino
Inside the Bellagio is an indoor garden with a spectacular floral display. The 50-foot-high glass roof provides a striking backdrop for great photos. The displays change with the seasons and for major holidays. The setting is a lovely, peaceful respite from the strip’s bright lights and the casino’s hustle and bustle. The garden is over 13,500 square feet and contains over 1,200 exotic plant bins.
When: It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Volcano at the Mirage Hotel and Casino
Every night on the Las Vegas strip, the Mirage features an erupting man-made volcano. The top of this 54-foot volcano is filled with dramatic flames and smoke, and molten lava flows down its sides. As you stand on the sidewalk, you can feel the heat from the flames on your face. This volcano was the first free attraction on the Vegas Strip, opening in 1989. Even though it has been in place for nearly twenty-five years, it never ceases to amaze onlookers every night.
When: Every 15 minutes between 7:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m.
The Fremont Street Experience
A multi-million dollar canopy and light show surround the original Downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street; the FREE Show is truly spectacular. It currently begins at 8 p.m., with shows beginning every hour on the hour and ending at midnight. The show lasts approximately 12 minutes. Check with your hotel to ensure the times are correct.
When: Every night at dusk
Sirens of TI at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino
The Treasure Island Hotel and Casino’s Sirens of TI show is described as a “modern musical-meets-action-movie spectacular.” The show lasts about 15 minutes and features a group of scantily clad women fighting a pirate band. Music, dancing, fencing, acrobatics, explosions, and even a full-sized ship sinking are all part of the shows. The Sirens of TI, who replaced the Treasure Islands Pirates Battle, were chosen to give the hotel and casino a sexier image.
When: 7:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 10:00 p.m., and 11:30 p.m. every night.
Rock and Roll Memorabilia at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
You can find collectibles from your favourite rock and roll stars at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. They have many displays for rock and roll fans, including Beatles collectibles, Madonna’s underwear, motorcycles from Guns N’ Roses, Matt Sorum and Motley Crue’s Nikki Six, and autographed guitars, drum sets from many bands, and leather jackets from the Ramones and Aerosmith.
When: Every day, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Masquerade Village Show in the Sky at the Rio Hotel and Casino
This carnival-themed show features spectacular floats that travel on tracks above the casino floor. Dancers in exotic masks and costumes will be throwing beads into the crowd. To add to the energy, the show includes clowns and acrobats. On the casino floor is the main stage, with a live band providing music for the show. However, keep in mind that there is no Show in the Sky from Monday to Wednesday. Instead, a Latin band performs on the Masquerade Village Stage.
When: Every hour from 7 p.m. to Midnight, Thursday through Sunday.
The Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino
The Lion Exhibit at the MGM Grand is for you if you want to see lions playing, sleeping, lounging, and interacting. The lions will have everything they need in this 5,000-square-foot glass-enclosed simulated jungle habitat, including a waterfall. Although the lions are not trained to perform tricks, they enjoy playing with bowling balls thrown at them; they are guided by the handlers’ voices and hand commands.
When: Every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Circus Acts at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
You can find the world’s largest permanent circus in Las Vegas. This show, which features aerialists, jugglers, magicians, trapeze artists, and clowns, is one of the oldest and most popular free shows in Las Vegas. It can be found at the big top in the Midway at Circus Circus. Each show lasts approximately 10 minutes, with an hour of intermission. Because there are a limited number of seats available, arrive early; people typically begin filling them about 15 minutes before the show (or more); don’t worry if you can’t get a seat; there is plenty of standing room available.
When: Every half hour from 11 a.m. to midnight, every day.
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Tuah bin Razak
Tuah is an experienced writer and casino enthusiast with 12 years of industry knowledge. With a degree in Journalism, he delivers objective and comprehensive casino reviews, covering game variety, user experience, security, and customer support. From slots to blackjack, roulette to poker, Tuah's expertise guides both beginners and experienced players in making informed decisions. Expect engaging articles providing valuable insights for an enhanced online gambling experience.