10 Fun Things to Do in Las Vegas that Aren't Gambling — Image by Pixabay via Pexels

What Happens in Vegas

Las Vegas is most famous for its many-storied casinos and gambling. There’s the Mirage, the Bellagio, the MGM Grand, Caesars Palace. Most of these casinos are so famous that they’ve even been featured in movies! The top activity in Vegas is, of course, gambling. But, since gambling isn’t for everyone, what is there to do in Las Vegas that doesn’t involve casinos and gambling? There are many wonderful stage shows and restaurants Las Vegas has to be proud of and many tourist attractions and activities that you can try out. Let’s look at the top ten things to do in Las Vegas that aren’t gambling.

The Strat Sky Pod

While this activity technically takes place in a hotel that is also home to a casino, it definitely doesn’t involve gambling! The observation tower stands 1.149 feet off of the ground, making it the tallest observation tower in the United States and the second tallest one in the Western Hemisphere. For those who are less adventurous, you can take a ride up to the Sky Pod and just drink in the incredible scenery to be seen for miles around. If you like a little more adrenaline, you can try out the thrill rides like the Big Shot, on which you shoot up 160 feet into the air at 45 miles per hour. If dangling from the edge of a building sounds like it’s up your alley, try the Insanity: an arm that extends over the side of the building and spins at speeds of up to 3G’s.

Colorado River

The Colorado River’s majesty is something you should not miss out on if you’re spending time in Las Vegas. It meanders for 1,447 miles and is framed on both sides by rich, red rocks and canyons all the way up to the Hoover Dam. It is one of the most significant water sources for both Nevada and California. You can take a kayak trip through Emerald Cave, a helicopter flight or float trip, a full-day excursion, or something shorter. Being out in nature when you’re in Las Vegas reminds you that the natural world holds as much beauty as the lights of the Strip.

The Las Vegas Strip

The Strip is known all across the world for its bright lights and the colorful characters that can be found along its length, day and night. Of course, the Strip is a path to all of the major casinos in the city, but it’s something beautiful in and of itself and can be appreciated, especially at night, for its artificial, glittering glory. If you take a walk along the Strip at sunset, you’ll see the sky compete with the lights and meet a lot of interesting Vegas locals.

The Neon Museum

This Las Vegas staple was founded in 1996 and is an NPO that is entirely dedicated to exhibitions and close-up studying of the most iconic Las Vegas neon signs. The museum includes an outdoor exhibition space which is known as the Neon Barnyard and is well known as the backdrop for many incredible photoshoots and even a wedding or two. It’s something truly unique and an unmissable sight if you’re in Las Vegas.

The Bellagio Fountains

Watching the glittering water shoot across the sky at the Bellagio fountains is something that every Vegas visitor should do! It’s incredibly over the top, but that’s the way with all of SIn City’s spectacles. The water is synchronized to a different playlist and light show every day, so unless you live in Vegas and see the fountain every day, you’ll never see the same show twice.

Helicopter Tours

There is no better way to take in the sights of Las Vegas than from the air! There are many different tours held at different times of the day, but we recommend a sunset or evening tour to see the Las Vegas lights in all their glory.

Springs Preserve

There are more natural attractions around Vegas than you might think! The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre institution that focuses on providing a sustainable future while still commemorating the past. The Preserve hosts concerts, features museums and galleries, and is home to a botanical garden and many hiking trails.

Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum

This institution first opened its doors over 200 years ago and has been attracting visitors from all over the world at its varied locations ever since. Many of your favorite stars are recreated at Madame Tussaud’s in wax, and at the Las Vegas branch, you can go on a wonderful journey through all of their lives and achievements too.

Mojave ATV Tour

Step out of your comfort zone and get down and dirty on a day trip to the Mojave Desert. You’ll take a 1.5 hour, adrenaline-fueled ride through the desert and hear a lot of interesting facts about the desert and Las Vegas itself.

The High Roller Wheel

Another way to see the sights in Vegas is to take a ride on the High Roller. This wheel is 520 feet in diameter and knocks both the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer out of the park. Each pod can hold up to forty people, and it takes half an hour to complete a full revolution.