Las Vegas is undoubtedly one of the world’s most exciting, fun-filled, and lively cities. This entertainment capital of the world is full of casinos, music halls, luxury hotels, and wedding chapels on every corner. What’s more, all of that guarantees endless fun and nights to remember, especially on the famous Las Vegas Strip.
But is there more to it? What else can you see on the Strip? Well, hold on tight because this legendary boulevard offers neverending amusement.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Vegas, we’ve got some ideas you should take into consideration. Read on to find out the top 7 places you should visit in Las Vegas strip.
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada Sign
Your first official Las Vegas destination should be none other than the well-known Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada sign. This fluorescent installation is considered the unofficial rite of passage for every tourist that comes to Vegas.
It has been lighting up the Las Vegas Strip and greeting visitors since 1959. A famous sign designer and artist, Betty Willis, designed and gifted it to the city. Unfortunately for Willis, she never trademarked it, meaning you can buy merchandise with this image all over the city.
The bright sign is one of the most popular spots in the town. It even found its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
Bellagio Fountains
If you’re a fan of Ocean’s 11, you should definitely add this place to your list. Not only are the fountains of Bellagio a well-known place on the Strip, but this is also where the movie’s characters meet at the end to celebrate the success of their heist. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, you shouldn’t miss out on soaking up the glory of these fountains.
The fountains span across the artificial lake in front of the renowned Bellagio hotel. They started operating in 1998 (the same year the hotel opened) and are a lasting legacy of an artist called Wet.
Today, this work of art includes over a thousand fountains, spraying up about 450 feet into the air.
Don’t be mistaken — the fountains of Bellagio are not open 24/7. The show is on every weekday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this period, the fountains go off every half an hour and then, from 8 p.m. to midnight, every 15 minutes. You can also catch it on the weekends.
Mirage Volcano
Another must-see attraction on this list is the so-called free eruptions show at the Mirage on the Strip. If you love catching shows when in Vegas, you’ll definitely enjoy this one, so make sure that you check it out while on an evening walk along the Strip.
This water cannon and musical attraction is set in front of the famous Mirage hotel. The former Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart and a renowned Indian drum master, Zakir Hussain, created this now-famous musical collaboration.
The volcano show first opened in 1989, along with the hotel, but it was upgraded in 2008.
The show takes place every day at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., with an additional 9 p.m. show on Fridays and Saturdays. The pyrotechnics on display are out of this world!
Flamingo Las Vegas Wildlife Habitat
Farragutful, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
You would be surprised to find a wildlife habitat in Sin City. However, the notable Flamingo hotel has one. Its courtyard is actually home to more than 60 exotic birds, 300 fish, and 20 turtles. This includes flamingos, swans, koi fish, and other animals.
The habitat opened in 1995, and it represents a beautiful oasis right on the Strip. It’s also filled with waterfalls and relaxing gardens, creating a perfect getaway spot during the summer heat.
The animals are well taken care of, so swing by to see them daily. They’re at their best at feeding times, around 8.30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Admission is free.
Venetian Canals
If traveling to Italy is out of reach for you, you’ll be glad to hear that there’s a bit of the Italian spirit on the Strip. The Venetian canals are a replica of the canals located in Venice, Italy. They are part of the Venetian resort in Las Vegas, built by the Sands Corp.
After the CEO, Sheldon G. Adelson, pitched the idea of recreating Venetian canals, the corporation spared no cost. This is a perfect getaway spot for couples or anyone interested in enjoying the popular gondola rides.
What’s more, tourists can experience both indoor and outdoor gondola rides. The canal runs along the LV Boulevard, while the indoor version passes between bridges and cafes along the 285,000-gallon Grand Canal. You can even pay extra for photo packages or tip your gondolier for a romantic serenade.
LINQ Promenade
Tomás Del Coro, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Shopping is not a groundbreaking experience in Las Vegas, but exploring the LINQ Promenade certainly is. The Promenade is an open-air attraction only available to pedestrians. Apart from shopping, it also offers numerous attractions, including wining and dining.
The LINQ Promenade opened in 2013 as part of a shopping mall, and it stretches from the Strip to the world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller.
So, you get a 3-in-1 attraction that starts on the famous Strip, leads you through the Promenade, and takes you to the 550-feet-tall wheel. It’s a great way to get a panoramic view of the city and experience it in an entirely new light.
The LINQ Promenade is a kid-friendly attraction, which is why it is perfect if you’re traveling with family. Either way, it’s a great time-killer during late-night walks.
Neon Museum
APK, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Las Vegas Neon museum is actually a non-profit dedicated to preserving and exhibiting old neon signs. The museum is located outdoors. During your visit, you can marvel at over 200 neon signs. It was founded in 1996 in an exhibition space also known as the Boneyard.
The Neon museum carries tons of unique stories with it. The one that is particularly interesting explores the role it played in creating Las Vegas as we know it today. Some of its pieces go back to the 1930s.
The place is rich in history, so it’s definitely worth a visit. We recommend getting your tickets in advance and definitely visiting at nightfall to get the full experience.
Final Thoughts
The Las Vegas Strip is a compelling must-see attraction in Sin City. Whether it’s your first time there or you consider yourself a regular, you should definitely spend some time on the Strip. The place has a lot of history, and it hosts some of the city’s biggest attractions.
We listed only some of the places you should visit when in Vegas, so make sure you add them to your list the next time you’re in town.