Las Vegas is synonymous with bright lights, all night clubbing and, of course, gambling. Unsurprisingly, millions of people flock to Sin City every year to indulge in roulette tables, slot machines, and poker games to try and win some big bucks. But there is far more to do than just gamble in this fantastic and thriving city.
Las Vegas itself offers a huge array of entertainment, and if you want to stay within the confines of the city, there are shows and comedy clubs to explore. Meanwhile, the surrounding area offers some stunning landscapes, and whether you just want to indulge in iconic sights or get a little adventurous, there is something for everyone.
1. Shows
In addition to most hotels having their own gambling establishment, many also house impressive theatres and concert venues where you can take in shows. Huge and international stars from around the world are often in residence, and past headliners have included Cher, Bette Midler and Celine Dion. And with each artist having an elaborate staging put on around their performance, Las Vegas is a great place to take in some iconic stars.
2. Comedy Shows
In addition to musical acts, Las Vegas is also famous for being home to many comedians and magic shows. Penn and Teller are just one famous comedy and magic duo who have graced the clubs of the area, and if you want to spend an evening laughing, then comedy is perfect.
3. Grand Canyon
Las Vegas is the best place to travel to the iconic Grand Canyon from, and if you’re using USA car hire to get around then you can easy drive to this location. If you want to push the boat out, then a helicopter ride over the canyon is thrilling. Alternatively take in the Grand Canyon Skywalk to hover perilously over the depths of the landscape.
4. Lake Mead
Located outside of Las Vegas, Lake Mead is the result of the Hoover Dam and covers approximately 1.5 million acres, making it the 16th largest man-made lake on the planet. There are a large range of watersports to enjoy, including boating and swimming. In addition, camping is also available, and it’s a great chance to spend a few days outside the city.
5. Horse Riding
If you’ve ever watched a Western, you’ll know of the dusty landscapes famous for cowboys. Horseback riding is a great way to see the area around Las Vegas and you can indulge yourself in day trips or overnight camping with views of the sunsets and meals included. Away from the buzz of The Strip you’ll be able to experience your own wild west, and get as close to nature as possible.
With so much to do in the city aside from gambling you’ll easily be able to fill your time experiencing Las Vegas like never before. And by combining some thrilling shows with the exciting landscape, you may find that you come away from this thriving place with memories of a lifetime without visiting even one casino.
photo credit: aigle_dore, tim pearce, justj0000lie, blizsnowstorm, o palsson
I don’t gamble or drink and I still had fun in Vegas.
It is become a credible and premier culinary destination, and we spent most of our time/money eating in some really terrific restaurants, thanks for the post, keep sharing.
I enjoy with the post very much, this is very helpful for those who want to travel the site, thanks for sharing.
Really nice shot of the Grand Canyon, both shots actually are spectacular. Didn’t initially realise that the top photo was of the canyon, assume it is?
There are a lot of thing to do in Vegas and honestly I do them with my wife. Almost all the things mentioned here were part of our trip to Vegas and I agree with Kris the food is great. However when I go with my friends we tend to just hang out and party sleeping in till noon. Going again in a few weeks basically for partying and food no excursions or shows.
Glad for the confirmation. Do you happen to recall which horse riding company you went with?
We were in Vegas earlier this year for 3 days and didn’t do much gambling. Its become a credible and premier culinary destination, and we spent most of our time/money eating in some really terrific restaurants. We didn’t take any excursions during this trip, but found plenty to do in town (including a lot of doing nothing by the pool).
Great sunsets, too. http://www.kriskoeller.com/blog/2011/04/15-las-vegas-sunset-in-22-seconds.htm
What type of food is Sin City famous for?
You name it, pretty much anything. They have quite a few Michelin-starred restaurants these days from some of the world’s premier chefs. We had dinner at Joel Robuchon and it was amazing (French).
I havn’t had quality French food in too long. Great idea.