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LINQ Promenade
Viva Las Vegas!
When people think of Las Vegas, images of neon-lit casinos, extravagant shows, and bustling nightlife come to mind. Located in the Nevada desert, Las Vegas is a city where indulgence is encouraged. From luxurious resorts and world-class entertainment to Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale shopping, Vegas has earned its title as an entertainment capital.
But, as fun as the glitz and glam can be, it comes at a price. Between the high cost of dining, drinks, hotel stays, and gambling, it’s easy for the expenses to add up quickly. Even if you skip the tables and slot machines, there are shows, club covers, and general tourism costs that can make a trip here pricey.
Yet, not everything in Vegas requires opening your wallet. In fact, some of the city’s best experiences are completely free. Below are my five favorite free things to do in Las Vegas, and they can easily be added to your itinerary for a budget-friendly trip.
Free Thing #1: Resort-Hopping
One of my favorite ways to soak in all that Vegas has to offer is by resort-hopping. The Strip is lined with some of the most jaw-dropping resorts you’ll ever see, and many of them are just as impressive on the inside as they are from the outside. Each hotel offers a unique experience, and the best part is that walking through these resorts is completely free.
Here are a few of my favorite stops:
The Venetian
Stepping inside The Venetian is like taking a trip to Italy – no passport required. I love strolling along the indoor canals, watching gondoliers serenade passengers as they float beneath painted sky ceilings. The Venetian’s architecture is stunning, from its marble floors to the intricate details of the bridges and facades. You’ll find restaurants and shops that transport you to the heart of Venice, making this resort a must-see for any Vegas visitor.
Caesar’s Palace
Caesar’s Palace is nothing short of magnificent. As you wander through its opulent corridors, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of a desert. The Roman-inspired design, with its towering columns and elaborate statues, makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Forum Shops, located within Caesar’s, are also worth checking out, even if you’re just window shopping.
New York, New York
For those who want to get a taste of the Big Apple, New York, New York is an absolute blast. I love wandering through its side streets, where you’ll find iconic New York-style eateries and quirky little shops. The exterior of the resort, with its replica Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, makes it a fun stop for photos.
The Cosmopolitan
If you’re looking for modern luxury, The Cosmopolitan is the place to be. The sleek, upscale atmosphere is present throughout the entire resort, from its chic restaurants to its dazzling lobby adorned with crystal chandeliers. It’s a great spot to take in some contemporary art and architecture while people-watching.
The Wynn
Everywhere you look inside The Wynn, there’s something beautiful to admire. From the elaborate floral displays to the upscale shops and restaurants, The Wynn oozes elegance. The atrium, with its whimsical floral carousel, is always a highlight of my visits, making it one of my top resort stops.
Circa
Located in Downtown Vegas, Circa brings a modern twist to the Freemont Street Experience. This adults-only resort has a rooftop bar called the Legacy Club, which offers some of the best panoramic views of the Strip. It’s technically free to go up if you ask the staff at the entrance – and trust me, the views are worth it!
1-Wynn, 2-Venetian, 3-Circa, 4-Cosmopolitan
Free Thing #2: Snap Iconic Photos
Las Vegas is filled with Instagram-worthy spots, and the best part is that they don’t cost a dime to visit. Here are a couple of my favorite locations for snapping those unforgettable photos:
Seven Magic Mountains
Just outside of Las Vegas, you’ll find Seven Magic Mountains – a vibrant public art installation in the middle of the desert. The towering neon-colored boulders, stacked in different formations, create a striking contrast against the barren landscape. It’s an otherworldly sight that makes for incredible photos, especially around sunrise or sunset when the colors pop even more.
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without visiting the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign. Located at the southern end of the Strip, this iconic landmark is a must-see. Sure, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s a quintessential Vegas experience, and it’s a great way to kick off your trip with some memorable photos.
Seven Magic Mountains
Free Thing #3: Watch the Bellagio Fountain Show
One of the most iconic and breathtaking sights in Las Vegas is the Bellagio Fountains. Set against the backdrop of the luxurious Bellagio Hotel, this water show is a must-see for visitors. Every 15-30 minutes, the fountains come to life, shooting water high into the air in perfect synchronization with music and lights.
The best part? It’s completely free! Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, the Bellagio fountain show never gets old. I recommend watching the show both during the day and at night, as the lighting effects create a different atmosphere after sunset. It’s one of those magical moments that make you fall in love with Las Vegas.
Free Thing #4: Wander Pedestrian-Friendly Streets
Las Vegas is known for its walkability, especially around certain areas that offer a mix of entertainment, shopping, and dining options. Two of my favorite pedestrian-friendly streets to wander are the Freemont Street Experience and The LINQ Promenade.
Freemont Street Experience
Located in Downtown Vegas, the Freemont Street Experience is a lively, pedestrian-only zone packed with entertainment. Here, you can watch the Viva Vision light show, which takes place on a massive overhead screen stretching five blocks. The street is also filled with street performers, live music, and quirky attractions - like a zip line - that capture the spirit of old Vegas. It’s a fun, free way to spend an evening.
The LINQ Promenade
Back on the Strip, The LINQ Promenade is another great spot to take a leisurely stroll. This outdoor shopping and entertainment district is lined with trendy boutiques, restaurants, and bars. You can grab a bite or drink if you want to splurge, but just wandering through the area is fun on its own. Be sure to check out the High Roller Observation Wheel (although riding it comes at a cost) and the colorful art installations scattered throughout.
Free Thing #5: Container Park in Downtown Las Vegas
If you’re looking for something a bit more offbeat, head to Container Park in Downtown Vegas. This open-air shopping center is made entirely from repurposed shipping containers and is filled with boutique shops, quirky art, and fun outdoor spaces. At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by a giant praying mantis sculpture that shoots fire from its antennae (yes, really!).
The whole area has a cool, artsy vibe, and it’s a great place to explore for free.
Container Park also hosts various live events and performances, so you never know what kind of entertainment you might stumble upon during your visit. It’s a unique and relaxing spot to spend an afternoon or evening away from the hustle of the Strip.
Conclusion
While Las Vegas can be an expensive destination, there are plenty of incredible experiences you can enjoy for free. From resort-hopping and catching iconic photos to watching the Bellagio fountains and exploring quirky areas like Freemont Street and Container Park, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time in this city.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for new things to do on your next trip, I hope these free activities help you build an unforgettable Vegas itinerary. The best part? You’ll still have plenty of cash left over for a splurge or two!
It's HOT & SUNNY in Las Vegas!
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