Free things to do in Las Vegas
Las Vegas may be known for its lavish casinos, extravagant shows, and gourmet dining, but there are plenty of free things to do that can make your trip just as memorable without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re on a budget or simply want to explore all Las Vegas offers, this list covers the top free attractions, activities, and sights in Sin City.
1. Bellagio Fountains
One of the most iconic free attractions in Las Vegas is the Bellagio Fountains.
Located in front of the Bellagio Hotel, this dazzling water show is a must-see for anyone visiting the Strip. The fountains shoot water as high as 460 feet in the air, choreographed to a range of music genres from classical to contemporary hits.
Shows run every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes in the evening, making it easy to catch multiple performances during your trip.
- Location: Bellagio Hotel & Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd
- Best Viewing Time: At night, the lights add extra magic to the show.
2. The Fremont Street Experience
Head to downtown Las Vegas for an immersive experience at Fremont Street. This pedestrian mall boasts a massive LED canopy that stretches five blocks, hosting one of the largest video screens in the world.
The canopy comes to life every hour on the hour with a free light and sound show that captivates visitors. Along the street, you’ll find street performers, live music, and plenty of people-watching opportunities.
- Location: Fremont Street, Downtown Las Vegas
- Light Shows: Nightly from dusk until midnight.
3. The Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo
Tucked away at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel is a hidden gem: a peaceful wildlife habitat filled with lush gardens, waterfalls, and exotic birds. You’ll find Chilean flamingos, koi fish, and a variety of other wildlife wandering freely in this tropical oasis. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip for a few moments of tranquility.
- Location: Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd
- Hours: Open daily, from dawn to dusk.
4. The Fall of Atlantis Show at Caesars Palace
Step into ancient Rome and watch history unfold at the Fall of Atlantis show inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. This free, animatronic show tells the story of Atlantis’s downfall, complete with fire, water, and light effects. It’s a fun, family-friendly attraction that runs every hour.
- Location: Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, 3500 S Las Vegas Blvd
- Show Times: Every hour, from 11 AM to 10 PM daily.
5. The Art at The Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is more than just a hotel—it’s also home to a stunning collection of contemporary art. Wander through the lobby and public areas to discover rotating exhibits, murals, sculptures, and digital art displays. Cosmo’s art collection is both provocative and inspiring, making it a must-see for art lovers.
- Location: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, 3708 S Las Vegas Blvd
- Tip: Look for hidden installations, such as the Art-o-mat, a vending machine that dispenses art for $5.
6. Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden
For chocolate lovers, a visit to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a sweet (and free!) treat. Take a self-guided tour of the factory to see how their chocolates are made, followed by a walk through their stunning botanical cactus garden. The cactus garden features over 300 species of cacti and desert plants, making it one of the largest in Nevada.
- Location: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson (about 15 minutes from the Strip)
- Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Chocolate samples are free!
7. Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is a vibrant art installation located about 10 miles south of Las Vegas if you’re up for a short drive outside the city. Created by artist Ugo Rondinone, this large-scale public art piece features seven towers of brightly colored, stacked boulders standing more than 30 feet high. It’s an Instagram favorite and a unique contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.
- Location: S Las Vegas Blvd, about 10 miles south of Las Vegas.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
8. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a photo at the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. Erected in 1959, this retro landmark has become a symbol of the city and a popular stop for tourists. There’s no cost to visit, and it’s open 24/7, so you can snap a photo at any time.
- Location: 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd (just south of Mandalay Bay).
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid long lines.
9. Container Park
Located in the Fremont East District, Container Park is a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub made entirely out of repurposed shipping containers. While you might be tempted to shop, it’s completely free to visit and explore the park’s quirky art installations, live music performances, and interactive playground for kids. Don’t miss the fire-breathing praying mantis sculpture at the entrance!
- Location: 707 Fremont St, Downtown Las Vegas
- Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season.
10. The Park
Nestled between the New York-New York and Park MGM hotels, The Park is a refreshing outdoor space filled with public art, shade trees, and cozy seating areas. Take a stroll through this urban oasis and admire the striking Bliss Dance statue, a 40-foot-tall sculpture of a dancing woman. The Park is a peaceful place to relax or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.
- Location: 3782 S Las Vegas Blvd (near T-Mobile Arena).
- Best Time to Visit: Evening when the area is beautifully lit up.
11. Streetmosphere at The Venetian
For a taste of Venice, visit The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, where costumed performers bring the canals to life with Italian opera, music, and living statues. The “Streetmosphere” performances are free and run throughout the day, creating a festive and culturally rich atmosphere.
- Location: The Venetian Resort, 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd
- Performance Times: Every hour from 12 PM to 6 PM.
12. The LINQ Promenade
The LINQ Promenade is a lively open-air district filled with shops, dining, and attractions. While some experiences, like the High Roller, cost money, walking the promenade is free and offers a fun atmosphere with its bright lights, street performers, and fountain show.
- Location: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd (right next to the LINQ Hotel).
- Tip: Check out the nightly LED show on the LINQ Hotel’s exterior for a free visual treat.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas offers an abundance of free attractions that let you experience the city’s vibrant culture and entertainment without spending a dime.
From iconic landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains and Fremont Street to lesser-known gems like the Ethel M Cactus Garden, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
Whether you’re taking a stroll through The Park or marveling at the Seven Magic Mountains, these free experiences ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of Las Vegas without the price tag.
Make sure to take advantage of these free attractions during your next visit to Las Vegas—you might be surprised by how much there is to see and do without spending a penny!