Welcome to the exciting world of Las Vegas – where there’s more than just gambling to keep you entertained! Often dubbed as ‘Sin City,’ most people associate Vegas solely with casinos and gambling, however, Las Vegas has so much more to offer.
You will be surprised to learn at the sheer number of things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble. From visiting iconic landmarks and natural wonders, enjoying exquisite culinary experiences and attending world-class shows – Las Vegas caters to everyone’s tastes, even for those who aren’t fond of placing bets.
Join us as we uncover some of the best things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble that will make your trip truly unforgettable. Trust me… This city has a lot to offer and few people head beyond the casinos.
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Table of Contents
Top Attractions, Activities & Things To Do In Las Vegas Besides Gamble
Las Vegas offers a wide range of activities beyond gambling, including visiting iconic landmarks like the Hoover Dam and exploring unique attractions like the Neon Museum. Experience the thrill of flying through the air on the Slotzilla Zip Line or take in stunning views from the High Roller Observation Wheel.
As you can see, there are a variety of things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble and some of them can really get the adrenaline pumping.
1. Visit The Hoover Dam
Visiting Hoover Dam is by far one of the top things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble.
⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (2,952 Reviews) Price: $69.99 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pick up from your hotel Details: Read more on Viator!
One of the must-visit attractions in Las Vegas that has nothing to do with gambling is the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam. This engineering marvel, constructed during the Great Depression, stands as a testament to human perseverance and ingenuity.
To get up close and personal with Hoover Dam’s rich history, join one of their guided tours like the Powerplant Tour or grab a combination ticket which includes a leisurely cruise on Lake Mead.
“Our tour operator Pam, was very informative, and gave us a first hand account of what it was like growing up in Boulder City. Her grandfather actually was a jack hammer operator who was one of the 6,000 workers hired for the Hoover Dam project.
She had many personal anecdotes, and spoke at a level even our 10 and 13 year old children could follow. Thank you!”
Nilay (read more reviews now!)
There’s also an informative museum onsite that provides visitors with valuable insights into how this colossal project shaped modern-day Las Vegas.
If you are driving to the dam, you can make a day of it as there are plenty of things to do around Hoover Dam, grab some lunch at nearby Boulder City, stop by Lake Mead or hang out with the Bighorn Sheep at Hemenway Park.
If you don’t want to drive there on your own, you can also book one of the small group tours to Hover Dam. That way you don’t have to worry about anything other than kicking back and enjoy the sights!
2. Explore The Neon Museum
One of the most unique and captivating things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble is exploring the Neon Museum. This remarkable nonprofit institution, founded in 1996, has dedicated itself to collecting, preserving, studying, and showcasing neon signs and their intriguing history.
As you wander through the pathways lined with vibrant neon signs from Las Vegas’ past, you’ll have ample opportunities to snap stunning photos while learning about the stories behind these iconic pieces of art.
Located in Downtown Vegas – which is home to several other fascinating museums as well – the Neon Museum provides not only a break from gambling but also immerses you in a world of rich history and artistic expression that can only be found here in Sin City.
3. Take A Ride On The Slotzilla Zip Line
The Slotzilla Zip Line is one of the unique things in Las Vegas besides gamble that gets heart racing!
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FLY LINQ Zipline Las Vegas Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you’re searching for an adrenaline-pumping experience in Las Vegas without stepping foot into a casino, look no further than the SlotZilla Zip Line!
Located in the heart of Downtown’s bustling Fremont Street, this exhilarating attraction is shaped like a gigantic slot machine and offers both adventure and amazing views.
“Everything was well organized, you could even take your personal belongings with you and the zipline ride was relatively short but it was fun.”
Davor (read more reviews now!)
As you zoom through the air on this wild ride, don’t forget to savor the unique sights below – talented street performers entertaining passersby, dazzling lights flashing all around, and tourists exploring Sin City’s iconic Fremont Street.
The SlotZilla Zip Line allows you to truly immerse yourself in one of Las Vegas’ most energetic districts while enjoying an unforgettable thrill-seeking experience.
4. Experience The High Roller Observation Wheel
If you love the circular motion of Ferris wheels, then one of best things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble is the High Roller Observation Wheel.
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (997 Reviews) Price: $26.25 per person Duration: Valid for 3 days 📍Meeting Point: Head to the High Roller box office, located in the LINQ Hotel. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
One of the must-visit attractions in Las Vegas is the High Roller Observation Wheel, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
At 550 ft tall, it’s considered as the world’s tallest observation wheel with 28 cabins offering a smooth and comfortable ride.
“Yes. the view of Las Vegas in neon flasks was it. a beautiful picture of the night city up to the horizon.”
Konrad (read more reviews now!)
The High Roller is an excellent experience for visitors who are looking for fun non-gambling activities in Vegas. It’s wheelchair accessible and located at The LINQ Hotel + Experience, making it easily accessible to tourists staying on or off the strip.
5. Enjoy The Bellagio Fountains
Everyone who has been to the city knows that the Bellagio fountain show is one of the top things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble!
Seeing the Bellagio Fountains show is a must-do activity when visiting Las Vegas. These fountains are among the most romantic and spectacular sights in the city, and they feature over 1,200 individual fountains choreographed to music and colorful lighting.
The best part is that it’s completely free! You can catch one of the shows every half hour between 3 pm and 8 pm, then every 15 minutes from 8 pm until midnight on weekdays and until midnight on weekends.
Not only can you enjoy the Bellagio Fountain show, but there’s also another attraction here that will take your breath away for free – The Bellagio Conservatory, which changes seasonally throughout the year.
Outdoor, Cultural Activities And Things To In Las Vegas Besides Gamble
If you think casinos are all that there are to see in the city think again. There are loads of things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble that involve the great outdoors.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Valley of Fire State Park, or take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride over the desert.
6. Hike The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon is one of the things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble that you should not miss!
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I highly recommend that you hike the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on your non-gambling trip to Las Vegas. It’s only 17 miles west of the Strip, and trust me, it’s worth the short drive.
The hiking trails here are simply breathtaking with stunning views of the red sandstone formations that make up this area.
“Knowledgeable guide and beautiful place to hike. The guide did a good job making the hike interesting for the more experienced hikers while assisting the less experienced ones.
We did get back to the drop off point an hour later than was listed, but that wasn’t a big deal for us.”
Kendra (read more reviews now!)
One popular trail is the Calico Tanks Trail which offers panoramic views of Las Vegas Valley and beyond. The trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete roundtrip and will take you past unique rock formations, seasonal waterfalls, desert vegetation like Joshua Trees and Yucca plants as well as wildlife such as bighorn sheep and lizards.
7. Visit The Valley Of Fire State Park
Looking for things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble? I recommend the Valley Of Fire State Park.
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One of my favorite places to visit in Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park. Just a short drive from the city, this park offers amazing outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.
The park gets its name from the stunning red rock formations, which were formed over millions of years by erosion and geological processes.
“Great time on Valley of Fire tour. Max was a great guide. very entertaining and knowledgeable about the area. Park views were awesome! Highly recommend”
Marianne (read more reviews now!)
Visitors can hike popular trails such as Fire Wave Trail or Atlatl Rock Trail, where they can see ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock faces.
Other activities at this beautiful park include ziplining and camping under the stars.
8. Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride
Nothing beats a hot air balloon ride when it comes to things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble!
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If you’re looking for a unique and breathtaking experience in Las Vegas, try taking a hot air balloon ride! This activity offers an incredible bird’s-eye view of the desert and mountain scenery in the Pahrump valley.
You’ll get to see stunning views of the sunrise or sunset while floating peacefully above the ground. The ride typically takes around 3 hours and is operated by a professional pilot.
“It was an amazing experience, the crew that that took us out was very friendly. They provided champagne & water for us.
He gave us a little history background of what was what once we were up there which I liked as well. Amazing first experience, would definitely do it again. The view was phenomenal.”
Ashley (read more reviews now!)
One popular option is to take a sunrise hot air balloon ride, which is a great way to start your day off right before exploring all that Las Vegas has to offer.
9. Attend A Concert Or Music Festival
Another great thing to do in Las Vegas besides gamble is to go for a music festival!
Las Vegas is a city of glitz, glamor, and entertainment. Known for its vibrant nightlife and world-renowned casinos, this destination also offers an amazing range of concerts and music festivals throughout the year.
The Life Is Beautiful Festival is one such event that features top-notch musicians like Chance the Rapper, Billie Eilish, and Post Malone.
Apart from the Life Is Beautiful festival there are other diverse musical experiences to explore in Las Vegas as well. There’s Electric Daisy Carnival which attracts electronic dance music fans with big-name DJs playing sets at giant stages for three days straight every May or June.
In addition to those dance-focused fests there’s the Downtown Rocks Free Concert Series under the lights of Fremont Street showcasing rock & roll icons like Gin Blossoms, Young the Giant and Smash Mouth for free!
10. Tour The Mob Museum
If you’re looking for a non-gambling attraction in Las Vegas that offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the city’s history, then the Mob Museum is a must-visit.
This downtown museum tells the story of organized crime in America, with particular focus on its impact on Las Vegas. The exhibits are interactive and informative, featuring artifacts like weapons used by famous gangsters such as Al Capone and Lucky Luciano.
One highlight is an exhibit called “The Underground,” which recreates a speakeasy from Prohibition-era America and includes secret rooms where illegal activity took place.
11. Visit The Grand Canyon
Visiting the Grand Canyon is one the epic things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble.
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If you’re looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, a visit to the Grand Canyon is an excellent option.
The natural wonder is one of the most accessible outdoor activities from Las Vegas, making it an ideal day trip destination.
“Pick up and drop off at hotel. Breakfast provided. Perfect amount of time to explore The Grand Canyon and Hover Dam. Guide was engaging and genuinely seemed to enjoy the gig. Would do it again!”
Erika (read more reviews now!)
Grand Canyon West features several viewpoints, a restaurant and adrenaline-boosting activities such as helicopter flights that will give you breathtaking views of the canyon below.
It’s not just about sightseeing either; cultural activities like Native American dance performances and crafts demonstrations are also available to make your experience richer.
If you are still on edge about visiting, read some Grand Canyon quotes. They are bound to give you wanderlust.
Fine Dining, Shopping, And Nightlife Experiences In Vegas
Visitors looking for fine dining, shopping, and nightlife experiences can indulge in gourmet cuisine at world-class restaurants, shop at high-end boutiques, and enjoy vibrant shows and concerts – Las Vegas offers plenty of exciting options for non-gamblers.
12. Try Out Fine Dining Options
As a self-proclaimed foodie, I can confidently say that Las Vegas has some of the best dining options in the world. From celebrity chef restaurants to traditional mom-and-pop diners, there’s no shortage of places to indulge your taste buds.
If you have a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, consider making reservations at one of the city’s high-end eateries such as Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand or Twist by Pierre Gagnaire at Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas.
But don’t let the fancy atmosphere scare you away! You can also find mouthwatering dishes in more casual settings like Gordon Ramsay Burger or Yardbird Southern Table & Bar.
13. Explore Trendy Shops And Boutiques
Las Vegas is known for its luxurious shopping experiences, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts. If you’re not in the mood for gambling, exploring trendy shops and boutiques could be an excellent alternative.
One notable place to check out is The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. It features over 160 upscale retailers under one roof offering everything from jewelry to clothing and home decor items.
Another famous spot for luxury shopping on the Strip is The Shoppes at The Palazzo which boasts more than 60 designer stores selling everything from couture dresses to men’s formal wear.
14. Attend A Cirque Du Soleil Show
If you want to be wowed then one of those amazing things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble is to enjoy a Cirque du Soleil.
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If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Las Vegas, attending a Cirque du Soleil show should be at the top of your list.
“Very good, great acrobatics, interesting stage technology.”
Martina (read more reviews now!)
There are 12 different shows to choose from, each offering its own brand of breathtaking acrobatics, stunning costumes, and mesmerizing music.
Attending a Cirque du Soleil show also offers an opportunity to combine it with other fine dining, shopping, and nightlife experiences on offer in Vegas.
15. Take A Food Tour
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One of the most exciting activities to do in Las Vegas besides gambling is taking a food tour.
With so many amazing dining options, a guided tour allows you to experience some of the tastiest and unique dishes that Vegas has to offer.
Whether you want to explore trendy areas like Downtown Las Vegas or sample cuisine from around the world on The Strip, a food tour will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.
“Samantha was fabulous. She showed us facilities we would never have thought of looking into. We loved how each restaurant had its own story. All the food was totally amazing. We enjoyed every moment.
We also enjoyed her livelihood and how she presented herself as well as the company. We appreciated her knowledge of the city and the happenings within the city. It was a fabulous experience.”
Vicki (read more reviews now!)
Plus, many tours also include other non-gambling activities such as visiting cultural landmarks or shopping at boutique stores.
16. Enjoy The City’s Nightlife
For those looking to enjoy the city’s nightlife scene, Las Vegas has plenty of options beyond just clubs and bars. There are a number of sophisticated experiences available, such as enjoying exquisite cocktails at upscale lounges like The Dorsey or Skyfall Lounge.
If you’re in the mood for something truly unique, check out The Laundry Room, a hidden speakeasy that serves up creative cocktails inspired by different eras and themes.
And if live music is more your thing, make sure to catch some of the top performers at venues like the House of Blues or Brooklyn Bowl.
Tips For Planning Your Non-gambling Trip To Las Vegas
If you are just planning on doing all the things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble, make sure that you plan your itinerary ahead of time to ensure you make the most of your trip to Las Vegas – read on for more tips and tricks.
Choose The Right Time Of Year To Visit
If you’re planning a non-gambling trip to Las Vegas, it’s important to consider the time of year you visit. The city is known for its hot summers and mild winters, so here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best time for your trip:
- Avoid the summer months: From June to August, temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, and you may want to spend more time indoors with air conditioning.
- Spring and Fall are ideal: March through May and September through November offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds than during peak summer season. This is a great time to explore national parks, take outdoor tours or enjoy the city’s attractions.
- Winter months can be unpredictable: While winters are generally mild in Vegas, there may be occasional snow or rain storms. However, this is still a good time for indoor activities or day trips outside of the city.
Remember that events like conventions or major holidays may also affect hotel prices and availability. Consider booking well in advance if you plan on visiting during a busy time of year.
Plan Your Itinerary Ahead Of Time
I highly recommend planning your itinerary ahead of time. There are so many non-gambling activities, attractions and things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble. To see it all can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan in place.
Research the top things to do and see, and decide which ones interest you the most.
For example, if you’re interested in visiting the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam, book your tours or tickets well in advance. If fine dining is on your list, research restaurants ahead of time and make reservations where necessary.
Basically sort out what really appeals to you among the numerous things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble so that you don’t miss out on anything you really enjoy.
Budget For Your Activities
One of the most crucial aspects of planning a trip to Las Vegas is budgeting for your activities. While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and glamor of the city, overspending on entertainment can quickly drain your wallet.
As someone who loves exploring non-gambling attractions in Las Vegas, I’ve found that setting aside a reasonable amount for activities is essential.
Based on my experiences, I recommend allocating around $400 for entertainment during your visit to Las Vegas. This budget includes shows and attractions such as museums, hot air balloon rides, and zip-lining adventures at Fremont Street Experience.
Consider Staying Off The Strip
Staying off the Strip in Las Vegas can save you a lot of money and still give you an amazing experience. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and attractions away from the main tourist area that offer better deals than those on the Strip.
Not only will staying off the Strip save you money, but it also allows you to explore more of what Las Vegas has to offer beyond just gambling and nightlife. Yes! That’s what we have been talking about all along. There are loads of amazing things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble and you want to make all those locations as easy to access as possible.
The Natural History Museum and Red Rock Canyon are two great options for non-gambling activities that are enjoyable for all ages. Additionally, there are many off-Strip attractions and activities for couples such as visiting local wineries or going on hot air balloon rides.
Take Advantage Of Deals And Discounts
As someone who loves to travel, I am always on the lookout for ways to save money while still having a great experience. Las Vegas is no exception, and there are many deals and discounts available that can help you stretch your budget further.
Some hotels offer special rates on rooms or packages that include meals or shows.
Another way to save money in Vegas is by signing up for loyalty programs at hotels, casinos, and restaurants. These programs often provide members with exclusive promotions, freebies, and other perks that can add up over time.
Finally, check out sites like Groupon or LivingSocial for discounted activities and experiences around the city. It helps because some of the things to do in Las Vegas besides gamble can get pricey. Not that gambling is cheap tbh!
In conclusion, Las Vegas offers an incredible experience for non-gamblers. From exploring natural wonders to indulging in fine dining and fantastic shows, the city provides endless entertainment options that are not gambling related.
The key is to plan your itinerary ahead of time and budget for the activities you want to enjoy. Don’t be afraid to explore off-the-strip attractions or take advantage of deals and discounts available at various hotels.
About The Author
Shannon is an adventure enthusiast, nature lover, and art dabbler who lives in Las Vegas, Nevada. She’s a huge fan of discovering new places to visit and the outdoor lifestyle.