Las Vegas Itinerary: 2, 4, 5 and 7-Day Itineraries to Help you Vacation Like a Pro
Las Vegas Itinerary: 2, 4, 5 and 7-Day Itineraries to Help you Vacation Like a Pro
After countless trips to Las Vegas over the years, I've developed a deep appreciation for this desert oasis beyond the neon lights and casino floors. The legendary Las Vegas nightlife offers something for everyone, from world-class Las Vegas shows to hidden speakeasies.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation, I've crafted a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Vegas.
From budget-friendly options perfect for first-timers to things to do for experienced travelers, consider this your comprehensive guide to experiencing Sin City like a local. My daily breakdowns can easily be mixed and matched throughout your stay, giving you more flexibility.
In addition, my itinerary also includes lesser-known venues where locals actually hang out and insider tips to help you maximize your time. Plus, you'll discover charming neighborhoods and outdoor adventures in the surrounding desert landscape that showcase the rich history of this fascinating city.
Las Vegas Itinerary: Your Guide to Vacationing Like a Local
It’s important to note that everyone does Las Vegas differently. Some people want to party hard, while others want to explore Sin City at a slower pace. Depending on the time you have, the people you’re with and your own personal preferences, you’ll know the speed you want to go.
I always recommend at least a day or two of complete relaxation, or not having anything really planned, so you can recharge, do something that you missed or stumble upon something new you didn’t plan on. Plus, you can always pick up some last-minute souvenirs before heading home.
So, whether you're seeking a foodies’ paradise, a lively nightlife scene, outdoor adventures or family-friendly activities, I’ve got you covered! Let’s get started.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino has become my absolute favorite spot whenever I visit Vegas. From the moment I stepped in, the lively energy mixed with that classic Vegas charm instantly drew me in.
Relaxing poolside in my own private cabana was a highlight, and dining at Edge Steakhouse—honestly one of the best steaks I've ever had—were highlights of my trip.
The casino floor was always buzzing with excitement, filled with friendly dealers and plenty of games to keep me entertained. I also loved Serenity Spa. I had an amazing facial once that I swear was life-changing. Between amazing food, endless entertainment and genuinely warm hospitality, Westgate Las Vegas checks all the boxes for me. I'd recommend it to anyone heading to Vegas!
Did You Know? Elvis Presley made entertainment history at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, performing over 600 consecutive sold-out shows from 1969 to 1976. His residency at the then-International Hotel not only showcased his immense talent but also solidified Las Vegas as a premier destination for live performances.
If you’re looking for another hotel that’s giving more neighborhood vibes and that home-away-from-home feeling, you should definitely check out Westgate Flamingo Bay Resort. It has rooms with washers and dryers, full kitchens and comfortable beds.
Every time I stay there, I always feel so comfortable. It’s only a short drive away from the Strip, and it has a free shuttle to popular areas around town. Oh, and it’s so quiet! No loud partiers to disturb your precious slumber. Check it out!
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Two Days in Las Vegas: A Weekend of Glitz and Glamour
So, you've only got 48 hours in Vegas? No problem! Let's make every minute count. There are tons of things to do in Las Vegas for a weekend. Let me show you!
Day 1: The Las Vegas Strip Essentials
Day one should be all about the iconic Las Vegas Strip. It’s what Vegas is known for, so it’s best to experience it first. From casino-hopping to eating at the best buffet (they all claim they’re the best) and looking at the opulent and over-the-top decor, explore the Strip like a pro with my helpful suggestions.
Of course, you can’t do everything on the Strip in one day or even one trip, so it’s best to tackle what you can’t miss first, then fit in a few more things on the last day or two of your vacation. The middle part of my itinerary will involve sightseeing away from Las Vegas’ city center, so stay tuned for that!
No trip to the Las Vegas Strip is complete without walking it and exploring all the different hotels along it. Some of my personal favorites include the Aria, Cosmopolitan, Caesars Palace, Park MGM, Resorts World, The Fontainebleau and the Bellagio.
I love walking through these hotels and getting lost in them. It’s not hard to lose track of time because you likely won’t find a clock inside any of them. And that’s the way they like it!
From the decor to the bright lights of the slot machines, Las Vegas casinos are definitely a sight to be seen. The downside is the smoke. Sadly, it’s just something you’ll have to put up with, as most casinos do allow smoking.
Pro Tip: If you hate the smoke like me, visit Park MGM. It’s a smoke-free casino!
Other interesting and fun-to-look-at hotels include New York-New York, The Venetian, The Palazzo, Luxor and Paris.
Now, let’s get to the fun part, which is all the activities, dining and entertainment to experience on the Las Vegas Strip!
Affordable & Free Things to Do on the Las Vegas Strip
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The Fountains of Bellagio (Free): A water show synchronized to music that runs throughout the day and evening.
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Visit the Bellagio Conservatory (Free): A stunning seasonal floral exhibit with elaborate displays and artistic installations that change five times yearly. Located past the hotel lobby and open 24/7.
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Take a spin on the High Roller at The LINQ: The world's tallest observation wheel offers spectacular views of the Strip in climate-controlled cabins.
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Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay: Features over 2,000 marine animals including sharks, sea turtles and a touch pool.
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Ride on a gondola at The Venetian: Indoor and outdoor canal rides with singing gondoliers through Grand Canal Shoppes or hotel exterior. It’s a 15-minute experience with private or shared options.
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Shop at the Forum Shops at Caesars (Free): An upscale mall with animatronic Atlantis show, spiral escalators, large aquarium and Roman-themed architecture with blue-sky ceilings.
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Visit the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel (Free): A garden habitat with flamingos, swans, ducks, koi fish and turtles. Open daily from dawn until dusk.
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Visit the Las Vegas sign (Free): Iconic photo spot at the south end of the Strip with a small parking lot. Especially impressive when lit up at night.
The Best Buffets on the Las Vegas Strip
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The Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace: Often considered the gold standard of Vegas buffets with over 500 dishes, including prime rib, king crab legs, made-to-order desserts and international cuisine stations.
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Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan: Known for individually plated portions rather than traditional buffet trays, featuring unique items like bone marrow and creative desserts.
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The Buffet at Wynn: Elegant atmosphere with high-quality offerings, including a seafood station with lobster and crab options.
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The Buffet at Bellagio: Features five cooking stations and exceptional seafood options in a sophisticated setting.
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A.Y.C.E. Buffet at Palms: Though slightly off-Strip, it's worth mentioning for its seven food stations organized by cooking method.
Check out even more amazingly delicious buffets in Las Vegas that locals love!
Top Las Vegas Strip Restaurants
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Catch (Aria): A stylish seafood destination blending Asian-inspired dishes, fresh sushi and Instagram-worthy desserts within an energetic scene.
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Momofuku (The Cosmopolitan): David Chang’s celebrated restaurant offers bold Asian-American fusion dishes, from steamed buns to ramen bowls, all served with his signature flair.
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Nobu Restaurant (Caesars Palace): World-famous Japanese fusion cuisine featuring signature dishes, like black cod miso and yellowtail sashimi, in an elegant setting.
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Beauty & Essex (The Cosmopolitan): Behind a quirky pawnshop entrance lies a stylish restaurant offering innovative shared plates and unique cocktails—perfect for a memorable night out. This one makes for a good date night in Las Vegas!
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Carbone (Aria): Classic Italian-American dining at its best, featuring favorites like spicy rigatoni vodka and veal parmesan, served in a lively, upscale environment.
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Hell’s Kitchen (Caesars Palace): Gordon Ramsay's iconic spot serving up his famous Beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding. The lively, energetic atmosphere makes you feel like you're right in the show.
Of course, places like Eataly, inside Park MGM, and hotel food courts are also top-notch. Don’t knock them until you try them. Check out more affordable Las Vegas restaurants that won’t break the bank!
Live Shows on the Las Vegas Strip You Don’t Want to Miss
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"O" by Cirque du Soleil (Bellagio): An awe-inspiring aquatic performance combining acrobatics, synchronized swimming and dazzling visuals—truly unforgettable.
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Absinthe (Caesars Palace): A wildly entertaining variety show mixing daring acrobatics, hilarious comedy and edgy adult humor. One of my personal favorites!
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Michael Jackson ONE (Mandalay Bay): A thrilling Cirque du Soleil production celebrating the King of Pop, featuring incredible dance routines and iconic music.
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Shin Lim: LIMITLESS (The Venetian Resort): World-famous card magician Shin Lim captivates with sleight-of-hand illusions and visually stunning tricks—perfect for magic enthusiasts.
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Penn & Teller (Rio): A witty, clever magic show filled with mind-blowing tricks, hilarious banter and engaging audience interaction.
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David Copperfield (MGM Grand): Witness legendary magician David Copperfield perform astounding illusions up-close. Truly one of Vegas's must-see acts.
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Mad Apple (New York-New York): This unique Cirque du Soleil show blends acrobatics, music, dance and comedy, capturing the essence of New York City's nightlife.
Best Family Activities on the Las Vegas Strip
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Pinball Hall of Fame: Relive childhood nostalgia and create new memories at the Pinball Hall of Fame, where you’ll find classic pinball games and vintage arcade fun for everyone.
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The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York: Buckle up and take a thrilling ride through the iconic Manhattan skyline on The Big Apple Coaster—it's the ultimate Vegas adrenaline rush!
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The rides at The Strat hotel: Dare to test your limits on The Strat’s thrilling rides, where sky-high adventures meet breathtaking city views that you'll remember forever. Read more about Vegas thrill rides!
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Visit the Coca-Cola Store: Stop by the Coca-Cola Store on the Strip to sample global flavors, snap a photo with the iconic polar bear and browse unique Coke memorabilia.
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Hershey’s Chocolate World: Indulge your sweet tooth at Hershey’s Chocolate World, filled with chocolate-themed treats, giant candy bars and interactive fun for the whole family.
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Atomic Golf: Swing into a neon-lit good time at Atomic Golf, Vegas’s coolest new hangout blending high-tech golfing, tasty bites and a fun retro vibe.
Las Vegas is actually full of fun things to do for families. You might not think it, but it’s true. From escape rooms to arcades, kids and teens under 21 can party just as hard as their parents, sort of.
Days 2 & 3: Exploring Las Vegas – Off the Strip
If you only go to Las Vegas and see the Strip, you’re missing out. There’s a lot more real estate to check out in town. It’s worth noting that I recommend renting a car when visiting. I know a lot of it can be walked, or you can take Uber or Lyft, but I like the freedom of being able to come and go as I please.
Pro Tip: I would consider waiting to rent a car if you plan to explore the Strip first because a lot of the resorts do charge for parking. Plus, you’ll save some money by not having the car as long. Having a rental car will also come in handy later on in this itinerary. You’ll just have to wait and see.
Also, I know we were starting off with a two-day itinerary, but if you’re staying for an extra long weekend, I added on day three. So, here we go!
Best Things to Do in Downtown Las Vegas
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Fremont Street Experience: A neon-lit party zone with live music, street performers and epic light shows on the world’s largest LED canopy. It’s even more impressive at night!
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SlotZilla Zipline: Soar above Fremont Street on a giant slot machine-inspired zipline. Choose seated or superhero-style for max thrills.
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Downtown Container Park: A funky outdoor hangout with boutique shops, cool bars, local eats and a fire-breathing praying mantis at the entrance.
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Historic Casinos: Step back into vintage Vegas at spots like the Golden Nugget and El Cortez. These classic casinos offer gaming, old-school charm and tons of Vegas history.
Best Restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas
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Carson Kitchen: Creative comfort food with a gourmet twist, served in a stylish, urban setting. Don’t miss the bacon jam!
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Oscar’s Steakhouse: A must-visit! Classic Vegas vibes inside the Plaza Hotel dome, with perfectly cooked steaks and views of Fremont Street.
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Barry’s Downtown Prime: A swanky, old-school steakhouse with modern flair. Think prime cuts, seafood towers and tableside service.
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Le Thai: Laid-back Thai favorite known for spicy curries, short rib fried rice and the iconic three-color curry.
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Park on Fremont: Whimsical garden patio, strong cocktails and comfort food like truffle fries and wild mushroom burgers.
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Triple George Grill: Upscale but unpretentious spot for steaks, seafood and classic cocktails. It’s perfect for a power lunch or dinner.
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Pizza Rock: Award-winning pizzeria by Tony Gemignani, offering every style from Neapolitan to Detroit-style pies.
Unique Things to Do in Las Vegas
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Area 15: A mind-bending art and entertainment complex with immersive experiences, wild visuals and the famous Omega Mart by Meow Wolf.
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Seven Magic Mountains: Snap a photo at this desert art installation, featuring giant, neon-colored rock stacks just outside the city. It’s definitely for the ‘gram (Instagram).
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Ethel M’s Botanical Cactus Garden: Wander through Nevada’s largest cactus garden, then grab some gourmet chocolate at the Ethel M factory right next door.
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Swingers Las Vegas: A cheeky, adults-only mini golf experience packed with bold decor, cocktails and hilarious hole designs. It’s the perfect place for a fun group! Love mini golf? Check out more mini golf places in Las Vegas.
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The Sphere: This massive LED globe hosts concerts and immersive shows with jaw-dropping visuals inside and out.
Best Bars to Visit in Las Vegas
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The Golden Tiki: A wild, over-the-top tiki bar with tropical drinks, animatronic parrots and a ceiling full of shrunken heads. It’s pure Vegas kitsch in the best way. Also, did I mention frozen Dole Whip?! Yes, you heard that right. Disney fans will love this place. Keep an eye out for a Walt Disney shrunken head.
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The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery: Hidden beneath The Mob Museum, this Prohibition-style bar serves house-distilled spirits and moonshine cocktails with vintage vibes.
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Frankie’s Tiki Room: A dark, divey tiki bar where strong rum drinks meet punk rock energy. Frankie’s is open 24/7!
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Velvet Bar (Inside Westgate Las Vegas): Chic, intimate and stylish, Velvet Bar is perfect for a pre-show cocktail or a nightcap with lounge vibes and great people-watching.
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Banger Brewing: Grab a locally brewed pint right on Fremont Street. This microbrewery offers tours, flights and laid-back vibes.
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Herbs and Rye: This off-Strip gem serves up perfectly aged steaks and classic cocktails in a moody, speakeasy-style setting. Go during happy hour for unbeatable deals.
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Oak & Ivy: A cozy craft whiskey bar in Downtown Container Park known for its small-batch spirits, barrel-aged cocktails and rooftop patio vibes.
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Vegas Vickie’s Cocktail Lounge: Sip on artful cocktails beneath the iconic neon cowgirl at this stylish lounge inside Circa. It’s equal parts retro and chic.
Best Museums to Visit in Las Vegas
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Neon Museum (Neon Boneyard): Wander through a glowing graveyard of vintage Vegas signs. The boneyard is especially stunning at night with the Brilliant! light show.
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The Mob Museum: Step into the gritty world of organized crime with interactive exhibits, a crime lab and a hidden speakeasy in the basement.
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The Atomic Museum: Explore the explosive history of nuclear testing in Nevada with immersive exhibits and a simulated atomic blast theater.
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Las Vegas Natural History Museum (Just off Fremont): A great low-key stop with exhibits on dinosaurs, marine life and ancient Egypt. It’s not just for kids!
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Four-Day & Five-Day Las Vegas Itineraries: Entertainment and Exploration
So, if you’re looking for four-day or five-day itineraries, I would repeat everything I mentioned above and encourage you to keep reading for more Vegas fun!
Days 4, 5 & 6: Drive into the Desert for an Oasis of Fun
This is the part of the trip where you venture out under the hot, desert sun. These are some of my favorite days because despite how awesome the Strip and surrounding areas are, the desert is where it’s at.
There is so much outdoor fun to be had, but be careful, the desert heat is punishing. Always remember to wear sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and long-sleeve shirts/pants). The heat and sun rays will always find you, even when you’re sitting in the passenger side of your rental car.
Speaking of rental cars, now is the time for that baby to be put to good use. That’s why I mentioned you might want to wait to rent it.
In this section, I included day six, partly because there’s so much to do outside the city, but also because you may want to spend a half-day exploring and then head back to relax by the pool. It’s really up to you.
If you’re asking what I would do, I would definitely be back in Las Vegas by mid-afternoon and spend at least the last day and a half of my trip relaxing, shopping and taking it easy. Like I said earlier, you should always plan some relaxation days to break up the trip. In this case, I saved them for the end, but we’ll talk about that a little later.
For this section, I wanted to do it a little differently because these are my favorite places to visit when I want to get out of the city. Plus, they’re all day trips, meaning you can still return to Vegas each day. Anyway, let’s get to adventuring!
| The Valley of Fire | Just under an hour from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park feels like another planet—and I mean that in the best way possible. It’s about 50 miles northeast of the Strip, and the drive alone is worth it. It cost $15 for non-Nevada vehicles to enter the park.
The second I saw those blazing red rock formations rise out of the desert, I understood where the park gets its name. It’s like walking through Mars... if Mars had petroglyphs and killer hiking trails. I packed snacks, wore sturdy shoes (the rocks get hot!) and lost count of how many times photos I took.
If you visit, don’t miss the Fire Wave Trail. It’s a short, scenic hike to a jaw-dropping swirl of red, white and pink sandstone that looks like nature’s version of gelato.
Also, swing by Mouse’s Tank Road. It’s one of the most Instagrammable drives in Nevada. I also loved spotting ancient petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and crawling around slot canyons like a desert explorer.
Pro Tip: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the heat and catch the light when it really makes the rocks glow! Also, always check for seasonal trail closures due to weather and/or excessive heat.
| The Grand Canyon | I bet you didn’t think you could visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas? Well, you can! The West Rim is about 130 miles away from Las Vegas and should take you about two and a half hours.
The South Rim is roughly 280 miles away, resulting in a four-and-a-half-hour drive, which seems like a stretch to commute back and forth to Vegas.
However, there are helicopter tours and bus tours that make the trip. For the purposes of this article, I’ll be talking about the West Rim and using a rental car.
Unlike the South Rim, the West Rim isn’t part of the National Park Service. It’s managed by the Hualapai Tribe, and general admission starts around $46.65 per person.
One of the biggest highlights? The Skywalk. It’s a glass bridge that extends 70 feet out over the canyon. You’re literally walking above a 4,000-foot drop, so it’s not for those with a severe fear of heights.
I also stopped at Eagle Point and Guano Point, which offer sweeping panoramic views and plenty of great photo ops
Just a Heads Up: No personal cameras are allowed on the Skywalk, itself, but you can get professional photos taken and buy them afterward.
Would I recommend visiting the West Rim of the Grand Canyon? I’m not sure. You can’t move about as freely with the strict rules. And I don’t like that you can’t bring your own camera on the Skywalk, but it is the Grand Canyon, so it might be worth the one-time experience of seeing this side of it.
Pro Tip: For all of these destinations, make sure to screenshot the directions. It’s the desert, so you never know when you might lose signal. You don’t want to get lost, do you?
| Lake Mead National Recreation Area | Just a quick 30-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle.
The journey is straightforward, and before you know it, you're surrounded by water and rugged desert landscapes. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, granting access for seven consecutive days, a reasonable price for a week of adventure.
I was amazed by the variety of activities available. Boating and jet skiing are very popular. Rentals are available at marinas like Las Vegas Boat Harbor and Callville Bay.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider a leisurely kayak trip to explore hidden coves and beaches accessible only by small watercraft. For those who enjoy hiking, the Historic Railroad Trail offers easy terrain with panoramic views of the lake and glimpses into the area's history.
Pro Tip: I can’t say it enough! Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! The desert sun is no joke.
| The Hoover Dam | Just a quick 30-mile drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is a marvel of engineering that's both impressive and accessible. I decided to escape the neon lights for a day and found myself standing atop this massive structure in less than an hour.
The best part? Walking across the dam is free, offering panoramic views of the Colorado River and the surrounding desert landscape.
For a deeper dive into its history and inner workings, I opted for the Guided Dam Tour, priced at $30 per person. This hour-long tour took me through the original construction tunnels and even into the inspection tunnels at the center of the dam.
Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is a smart move. Parking was straightforward, with a $10 fee for the garage adjacent to the Visitor Center.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider walking the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge nearby for a unique vantage point of the dam.
| Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area | Just a 30-minute drive west of the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a stunning natural escape from the city's neon lights. The contrast between the bustling Strip and the serene desert landscape is striking.
The area features a 13-mile scenic drive that provides access to numerous trailheads, overlooks and picnic areas. This is great for disabled individuals or those who have trouble walking. You don’t even need to leave your car to experience the beauty of the red rocks!
The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, granting access to the scenic drive and facilities. The Visitor Center is a great starting point, offering exhibits and information about the area's geology, flora and fauna.
For hiking enthusiasts, Calico Tanks Trail is a popular choice, leading to a hidden water pocket with panoramic views of Las Vegas. The trail is moderately challenging but well worth the effort. Another favorite is the Calico Hills Trail, showcasing vibrant sandstone formations that are perfect for photos.
| Mount Charleston | Just a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, Mount Charleston offers a refreshing escape from the city's hustle. Rising to 11,916 feet, it's the highest peak in the Spring Mountains and provides a cool retreat, often 20-30 degrees cooler than the valley below, which is absolutely lovely!
One of my favorite hikes is the Cathedral Rock Trail. It's a moderate 2.7-mile round trip that rewards you with panoramic views at the summit. If you're up for a challenge, the Charleston Peak via South Loop Trail is a strenuous 16-mile trek with over 4,000 feet of elevation gain, but the vistas from the top are unparalleled.
During winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding at the Lee Canyon Resort.
| Emerald Cave | Just an hour's drive from Las Vegas, nestled in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, lies the enchanting Emerald Cave. This hidden gem is renowned for its mesmerizing green waters, which seem to glow under the midday sun.
The journey to the cave is an adventure in itself, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and a chance to immerse oneself in nature's tranquility.
I opted for a guided kayak tour, which made the experience both accessible and informative. Paddling along the calm waters of the Colorado River, surrounded by towering canyon walls, was nothing short of magical.
The highlight, of course, was reaching Emerald Cave. As sunlight filtered into the cave, the water illuminated in vibrant shades of green.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, visiting Emerald Cave offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty.
Pro Tip: Midday tours are ideal to witness the cave's emerald glow at its peak. And make sure you bring sunscreen and a waterproof casing for your phone or camera.
BONUS: Ghost Towns to Visit Near Las Vegas
Ghost towns are always fun to visit if you’re into that sort of thing, so I thought I’d mention a few of my favorites.
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Nelson Ghost Town (El Dorado Canyon): About 45 minutes from Vegas, this semi-preserved ghost town is filled with old mining equipment, rusted cars and wild photo ops. You can even tour the old Techatticup Mine and hear stories of gold, greed and gunfights.
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Goodsprings: Roughly 35 minutes southwest of Vegas, Goodsprings is home to the legendary Pioneer Saloon, still in operation since 1913. The town has a Wild West vibe, and some say the saloon is haunted. It’s perfect for grabbing a drink and soaking up ghost stories. Check out more haunted places in Las Vegas!
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Rhyolite: Just under two hours away, near the edge of Death Valley, this abandoned boomtown is filled with photogenic ruins, including a crumbling bank, a train depot and the famous ghost sculptures at the Goldwell Open Air Museum.
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Sandy Valley: About one hour from Las Vegas, this quiet desert town has a few scattered remnants of its past, plus it’s a great jumping-off point for horseback rides and scenic drives through the Mojave.
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Cal-Nev-Ari: Technically still populated but very quirky. This tiny town (around 1.5 hours away) was once an aviation community with ghost town vibes and a nearly abandoned casino. It’s worth a quick drive-by if you’re into offbeat desert towns.
BONUS: Hot Springs to Check Out Around Las Vegas
This one might confuse a few people, but it does get cold in Las Vegas during the winter months, so a warm hot spring definitely feels good.
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Gold Strike Hot Springs (Boulder City): About 45 minutes from Las Vegas, this spot is for adventure seekers. You'll need to hike a moderate-to-difficult six-mile round-trip trail through a scenic canyon with ropes and boulders, but the payoff is a series of natural hot pools right along the Colorado River. Note: Closed in summer due to extreme heat.
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Arizona Hot Springs (Ringbolt Hot Springs): Roughly an hour from Vegas, this hidden gem is just past the Hoover Dam. After a three-mile hike, you’ll reach a ladder leading to a tucked-away canyon with steamy pools to soak in. Combine it with a kayak trip for bonus vibes. Note: Also closed in summer months.
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Duckwater Hot Springs: A bit of a stretch at just under two hours, but worth mentioning for its off-the-beaten-path feel. This one’s located in a more remote part of the desert and is best accessed with a high-clearance vehicle. It's quiet, peaceful and has a truly local feel.
7-Day Las Vegas Itinerary: Viva Las Vegas!
If you’ve made it this far, you’re staying for a long time in Sin City. Most people usually visit between three to five days. That’s why it’s so important to get out of the city and explore the beauty of the desert. It’s also important to take the last two days or day and a half to relax, recuperate and wind your trip down.
On day six and definitely on day seven, I always like to shop at the Fashion Show Mall, eat a quiet lunch at Jeannie’s inside the Nordstrom and do anything I missed or wanted to do again on day one or two.
It’s also a good time to sleep in, grab coffee, eat some yummy dessert and shop for souvenirs and treasures at the many antique stores in Las Vegas. By day seven, you’re definitely a little tired and “may be ready” to go home. The keywords here being “may be ready.” Who really wants vacation to end? Am I right?
Tips You Need to Know When Visiting Las Vegas
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Skip the weekend if you want to save: Hotel rates are much cheaper Sunday through Thursday compared to Friday and Saturday nights.
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Bring comfortable walking shoes: The Strip is longer than it looks, and you'll easily hit 20,000+ steps in a day.
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Use rideshare pickup zones: Uber and Lyft have designated spots at hotels and casinos. Don’t expect curbside pickups on the Strip.
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Plan your casino walks: Cutting through resorts is faster and air-conditioned, but some hotels are massive. It’s best to give yourself time.
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Book shows in advance: Popular shows like Cirque du Soleil and magic acts often sell out, especially on weekends.
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Use the Deuce or Monorail: These public transit options are cheap, convenient and help you avoid Strip traffic.
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Tipping matters: Tip $1–$2 per drink at casinos for continuous service. It’s also important to tip hotel staff and valet attendants too.
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Stay hydrated: Vegas is dry year-round, and alcohol + heat = dehydration fast. Carry a reusable water bottle.
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Don’t rely on cell signal indoors: Casinos can be signal dead zones. Save maps, tickets and addresses offline when possible.
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Happy hours are your best friend: Tons of restaurants and bars offer amazing deals between 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
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Use casino player cards: They can score you discounts on food, hotel stays and shows. Plus, you don’t have to gamble or spend a lot to get one. It’s usually free to sign up.
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Parking isn’t always free: Many resorts now charge for self-parking and valet, especially on the Strip. Check before arriving.
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Dress codes exist: Upscale restaurants, clubs and lounges may require proper attire. Bring at least one dressy outfit.
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Avoid ATM fees: Casino ATMs charge outrageous fees ($8+). Withdraw cash before you arrive or use a bank branch off the Strip.
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Fremont Street is not the Strip: It's in Downtown Las Vegas and offers a totally different vibe. However, it’s definitely worth visiting for the lights, music and old-school Vegas feel. See my suggestions above!
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Finding Your Vegas: The Perfect Itinerary for Every Kind of Explorer
After trying out these different Vegas activities, experiences and eateries, I’ve realized just how versatile this city really is. One day I was enjoying quiet desert views at Red Rock Canyon, and the next I was wandering the Neon Museum, completely captivated by the vintage signs.
Whether you’re into food, nature, history or simply exploring at your own pace, there’s a version of Las Vegas that fits your style. And yes, I still recommend sunscreen and comfy shoes. This city is best explored on foot!
What I love most is how easy it is to personalize your trip. You can spend your morning kayaking near the Hoover Dam, grab lunch at a tucked-away Thai spot downtown and spend the evening watching the Bellagio fountains light up the Strip.
Vegas might be famous for its flash, but it’s the unexpected, in-between moments that really stick with you.
For more tips and guides to exploring Las Vegas, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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