free things to do in Vegas

52 of the best free things to do in Vegas, Nevada

Free things to do in Vegas aren’t too hard to find when you know where to look. And, to be honest, though Vegas can be expensive it doesn’t have to be. It’s totally possible to find plenty of things to do in Las Vegas on a budget.

When we were traveling around America for 3 months in our campervan we were definitely on a budget. We did pretty well, not spending any money on accommodation for 5 months (besides 2 nights in hotels), and most of our days were spent hiking in America’s National Parks or wandering around cities.

However, as we got closer to Vegas, we knew we wouldn’t be able to pass up the opportunity to visit this town and we’d likely be spending a bit of money.

Once you’ve passed the overpriced teas at Starbucks (normally $2.25, Vegas price $4.55, and that was in 2017!) and the opportunity to gamble every second of the day, there are lots of inexpensive things to do in Vegas and I’ve picked out the best ones for you in this post! 

We were 100% on the lookout for cheap things to do in Las Vegas. And it surprised me.

Did you know there are tonnes of things to do in Las Vegas for free? You can watch free pilots of TV shows, see $1 million cash, see water shows for free in Vegas, and more.

If you’re looking for what to do in Vegas on a budget, this is for you.

You’ll still feel like you’ve experienced Las Vegas after seeing these top free Las Vegas attractions and you won’t come away with regret or a depressing bank statement.

Best fun free things to do in Las Vegas

With more than just the top things to do in Las Vegas, this list is full of cheap stuff to do in Vegas. So, look no further for ideas of fun free things to do in Vegas! 

I’ve included a map below so that you can use it to plan your trip to Las Vegas. It has all the best things to do in Las Vegas for free that I mention in this blog.

free things to do in vegas nv

1. Travel the world for free in Vegas

You’ve traveled all the way to Las Vegas but why stop there?

Once you’re in Vegas all you need to do is take a walk down the strip and you’ll find plenty of things to see in Las Vegas.

There’s a replica Eiffel Tower, the canals of Venice, the Statue of Liberty, and even a replica of Italy’s Lake Como!

You don’t need to spend any money on these free attractions in Las Vegas either.

The fact that you can see all these in one city is awesome and it’s definitely one of the answers to the question “What to do in Las Vegas?” These mini-countries in Las Vegas are just some of the best places to visit in Las Vegas.

2. Feel like you’re in the movies

One of the weird things about Vegas is that you’ll feel like you’ve been there a hundred times before even when it’s your first visit.

If you’re up for some Las Vegas sightseeing go and see where some of your favorite films were made; it’s pretty much a must-do in Las Vegas and one of the best things to do on the Vegas Strip.

There are the Bellagio Fountains from Ocean’s 11, the poolside at Garden of the Gods from The Big Short, and, of course, the Caesars lobby from The Hangover.

If you want to learn more as you wander around Las Vegas, check out this cheap Vegas walking tour.

3. Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas

For a unique and mesmerizing experience, visit the Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas. The free show in Vegas takes place every night and is a huge show with impressive lights, sounds, and visuals.

The lake’s vast 20,000-square-foot surface, combined with a dramatic 40-foot waterfall, forms a unique stage for the show.

During the show, huge puppets and robots emerge from the water, and the show-stopping moment is when a gigantic 23-foot head appears from the depths!

  • Shows are complimentary and run nightly every 30 minutes beginning at dusk.
AKHOB by James Turrell

4. AKHOB by James Turrell

AKHOB, located inside Crystals on Louis Vuitton’s fourth floor, is a well-kept secret of Vegas.

This two-chamber space offers a peaceful experience from the gambling and shows of Vegas and immerses you in an enchanting display of slow-changing, bleeding light.

The colors ebb and flow, creating a super cool light show.

As it’s an attraction in Las Vegas for free, it’s very popular, and recent reviews (2023) show that the number is hard to get through for making reservations.

  • Akhob phone number: +1 7027303150
vegas eiffel tower

5. Eiffel Tower at Paris Casino

No trip to Vegas is complete without witnessing the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower replica at the Paris casino.

Standing 541 feet tall, this massive structure offers more than just one of the best free attractions in Vegas to look at.

If you head there from dusk until midnight, you can see a cool free light show that takes place every 30 minutes.

It’s perfectly timed with the Bellagio fountain shows across the street so you can watch both as they light up.

The Silverton Hotel aquarium vegas

6. Free Aquariums in Vegas

For nature and marine life enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of free aquariums to explore in Vegas.

The Silverton Hotel, for example, houses a massive 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. There is a fiverse array of marine life, and also amazing mermaid shows.

Other ideas for a free aquarium in Vegas include the 40,000-gallon tank at Bass Pro Shops with a beautiful waterfall and a trout stream.

The Forum Shops at Caesars also have a 50,000-gallon tank. You’ll find it near the Cheesecake Factory and Nike.

Lastly, the Mirage Hotel has a smaller 20,000-gallon tank, beautifully integrated into the hotel lobby’s decor.

top golf pool vegas

7. Cool down in the hotel pool

It’s so hot in Vegas.

We left our exploring of the city until the late afternoon when it was a little bit cooler and spent the rest of the time either by the pool or in air-conditioned casinos.

If you’re staying in the center of Las Vegas then I highly recommend booking a hotel with a pool. Most of them have one and being able to chill out by one is one of the top things to do in Las Vegas strip.

If you do fancy spending a little bit of money then try out these cool pools.

  • Mandalay Bay’s outdoor playground, features a lazy river, a wave pool, and a sandy beach.
  • The Boulevard Pool at the Cosmopolitan overlooks the Strip from four stories and at the Golden Nugget Downtown, you can take a waterslide and see a tank full of sharks.
studio 71 vegas

8. Studio 71

*Permanently closed*

Disco and neon collide at Studio 71 at Plaza Las Vegas in Downtown Las Vegas. This place is a dream for those seeking to spice up their Instagram with vivid, vintage-themed photos.

Studio 71 pays homage to the Plaza’s early years with vibrant LED backdrops and a ’70s-inspired vibe. It promises a blast from the past and it’s the perfect spot to capture some memorable photos of your trip to Las Vegas.

mermaid show vegas

9. The Mermaid Show at Silverton Aquarium

The Silverton Aquarium isn’t just a free aquarium in Vegas, it’s also home to the free mermaid show!

Yes, you read that right! You can watch real-life mermaids swim among the marine life at certain times on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

If you or your kids are fascinated by these mythical creatures, there’s even a Mermaid School with separate classes for kids, teens, and adults.

Vegas Mermaid show times:

  • Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 12 PM – 1:15 PM, 2 PM – 3:15 PM and 5 PM – 8:15 PM
  • Sunday: 10:30 AM -12:45 PM, 2 PM – 3:15 PM and 5 PM – 6:45 PM
free things to do in Vegas

10. See the vintage signs on Fremont Street

Away from The Strip, East Fremont Street is fast becoming a hip, cool neighborhood.

The area used to be a fairly dangerous place to be, but now it’s full of trendy bars (with more of a rock scene than the trance music of The Strip), shops, restaurants, and bookstores.

Since its revival, it has become one of the best Las Vegas tourist attractions, and it’s proof that there’s more free stuff to do in Vegas than just gambling.

It was probably my favorite area in Vegas (apart from the hotel) and I’d say it’s a must-do in Vegas. I loved the vintage signs and the rock atmosphere discovering this Las Vegas attraction for free is well worth it.

bonnie and clyde car vegas

11. Bonnie and Clyde’s Car at Whiskey Pete’s

At Whiskey Pete’s in Primm, just outside of Las Vegas, you’ll find a piece of American criminal history on display – the actual car in which the infamous duo Bonnie and Clyde met their end!

This bullet-riddled 1934 Ford Deluxe, also known as the “Bonnie and Clyde’s Car,” is a fascinating free place to visit near Vegas.

Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall

12. Sunset Stampede at Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall

Looking for off-Strip entertainment? Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall hosts the Sunset Stampede five times a day.

Inside the hotel, you’ll find a 10-story atrium where Mystic Falls Park is situated. The park has a waterfall and lush plants and is the stage for the Sunset Stampede show where water, laers, lights, sounds, and animatronics animals combine.

13. Pioneer Trail

For a taste of Las Vegas history, head out on the Pioneer Trail.

This self-guided driving or biking tour takes you to 16 historic sites in the northwest of the Strip.

The trail begins at the Springs Preserve and ends at Biltmore Village and along the way, you’ll get an insight into the often-overlooked history of Black culture in Las Vegas.

Key points of interest include the Harrison Boarding House, which once provided accommodation to entertainers of color during segregation, and the site of the Moulin Rouge, which was the first integrated casino in 1955.

Fashion Show Mall

14. Fashion Runway Show at Fashion Show Mall

If you love fashion, be sure to check out the free fashion shows at Fashion Show Mall.

The mall has a massive runway right in the center where fashion shows take place, displaying the latest trends and designs.

The shows can also be watched on large screens around the mall or as “virtual” events.

Be sure to take some time to explore the free art installations at the mall as well – they make for great photo opportunities!

The Piano Bar at Harrah’s Casino

15. The Piano Bar at Harrah’s Casino

For a lively and entertaining night, head over to The Piano Bar at Harrah’s Casino.

Here, you can enjoy a fantastic dueling piano show that’s free to attend.

The talented pianists are also great singers and love to get the crowd involved, often taking song requests from the audience.

Though drinks and tips aren’t required, they are encouraged if you want to show your appreciation for the performers.

  • Every night from 9 pm
vegas volcano

16. Watch a volcano erupt in Vegas

The Mirage hotel puts on a show every night for free and it’s just one of the super fun things to do in Vegas.

Believe it or not, you can see a Volcano erupt right along the strip. Fortunately for you, this volcano erupts like clockwork (and isn’t dangerous).

This is one of several free shows in Las Vegas and you can check it out at the following times:

  • Sunday – Thursday: 8:00 PM & 9:00 PM
  • Friday – Saturday: 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM, 10:00 PM
free things to do in Vegas

17. The Fremont Street Experience

Besides cool vintage signs, Fremont Street has its own free experience that’s now a major tourist attraction and one of the top things to do in Vegas during the day and night!

The Fremont Street Experience is a canopy that covers a pedestrian walkway full of casinos, cheap eats, and a really weird restaurant where you dress up in hospital clothes and prepare to eat yourself to a heart attack.

The key highlight is the Viva Vision light show, illuminating the night with dazzling colors under a massive canopy.

The show is free and is accompanied by a series of talented street musicians who some nice tunes to your walk down the street.

18. Laugh Out Loud at The Dirty 12:30 Free Comedy Show

The South Point Casino hosts The Dirty 12:30, a free stand-up comedy show for fans of irreverent humor.

The R-rated content will keep you giggling throughout the night, and there’s no catch of mandatory drink purchases.

Just be sure to arrive early as the seats fill up fast.

fall of atlantis show vegas

19. Witness The Fall of Atlantis

The Fall of Atlantis show at Caesars Palace’s Forum Shop is a top-rated free show in Las Vegas.

Featuring animated statues, light effects, and a dramatic soundtrack, the show reenacts the epic story of the legendary city.

For the best experience, arrive early and secure a good viewing spot around the fountain.

  •  Thursday – Monday every hour on the hour, starting at noon and ending at 8 p.m. 
hersheys chocolate world chocolate statue of liberty

20. Indulge in Hershey’s Chocolate World

Hershey’s Chocolate World in Las Vegas is a sweet haven for all chocolate lovers.

This free attraction in Vegas offers a unique experience, including an 800 lb Statue of Liberty made entirely of milk chocolate.

You can also explore a bakery and a myriad of candy merchandise if you’re willing to spend a few bucks.

21. Enjoy a Free Tram Ride on the Strip

When walking down the Las Vegas Strip becomes tiring, hop onto one of the free pedestrian trams.

With routes connecting Mandalay Bay and Excalibur, Bellagio and Aria, and Treasure Island and the Mirage, these trams offer a relaxing and free journey across the city.

Don’t confuse these with the Las Vegas Monorail, which charges a fee!

las vegas flamingos

22. See the Las Vegas Flamingos

I haven’t lost it, I promise you really can see flamingos in the middle of the Las Vegas strip, AND it’s free!

Just a few minutes walk away from the bustling Strip is a secluded area full of flamingos at the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat.

You’ll find flamingos, swans, ducks, koi, turtles, and even a couple of pelicans! This may be one of the stranger things to do around Las Vegas but it’s a good example of Las Vegas fun.

linq promenade vegas

23. Stroll the Linq Promenade

The Linq Promenade is a vibrant shopping and entertainment area in the heart of the Strip.

With loads of restaurants, including everyone’s favorite In n Out Burger, shops, and the huge High Roller observation wheel, this area offers a fun, free experience.

While the High Roller ride does require tickets, you can enjoy the sight of it and capture some fantastic photographs free of charge.

bellagio conservatory and botanical gardens

24. Marvel at the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanic Gardens

The Bellagio Gardens are a must-visit free attraction in Las Vegas.

These enormous gardens transform with the seasons, showcasing everything from gigantic Christmas trees to exotic flowers.

Open 24/7, the gardens provide a peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle and bustle.

Seven Magic Mountains

25. Photograph the Seven Magic Mountains

South of Vegas off Interstate 15, Seven Magic Mountains is an interesting 25-foot-tall art installation consisting of stacked, rainbow-colored rocks.

This surreal desert art display is a must see if you’re visiting Vegas and looking for a day trip from the city.

venetian vegas

26. Experience Venetian Life

The Venetian Casino lets you experience the grandeur of Venice right in Las Vegas.

You can stroll along the Grand Canal, relax in St. Mark’s Square, and enjoy street performances, all for free.

The performers, also known as “Streetmosphere”, entertain visitors with singing, dancing, and living statues, creating an atmosphere like what you’d find in Covent Garden in London.

27. Watch a Golden Knights Practice

While tickets to see a Golden Knights game at the T-Mobile Arena might be pricey, you can watch the team practice for free at the City National Arena in Summerlin.

The practice timings vary but typically fall between 9 am and 11 am.

Check the Golden Knights Twitter account for practice announcements.

It’s a fantastic free experience for hockey fans and a great way to catch a glimpse of professional athletes in action.

bellagio fountains las vegas

28. Bellagio Fountains

The dancing waters of the Fountains of Bellagio have become one of the best Las Vegas activities for free and are a must on your list of places to see in Las Vegas. They sure are impressive!

Jets of water shoot hundreds of feet into the air and sway gracefully to the music. It’s one of the best things to do in Vegas and seeing it only once won’t be enough! 

Every evening, a water and music show plays again and again in the spectacular fountains filling the quarter-mile-long lake in front of the Bellagio.

Make sure you don’t miss this, one of the best free activities in Las Vegas.

  • Weekdays: 3 pm to 7 pm every 30 minutes and every 15 minutes from 7 pm to midnight
  • Saturdays and Holidays: from 12 pm
  • Sundays: from 2.30 pm.

29. See Dale Chihuly’s “Fiori di Como”

The impressive glass floral artwork by Dale Chihuly, called “Fiori di Como,” is a free thing to see in Vegas that you shouldn’t miss.

Displayed at the Bellagio hotel lobby ceiling, this 2,100-square-foot masterpiece features 2,000 backlit glass blossoms.  

free things to do in Vegas

30. Get a snap with the welcome sign

Maybe one of the most cliched free stuff in Vegas to do is to get a snap with the “Welcome to Vegas” sign.

Designed back in 1959, the famous neon sign welcomes millions of visitors to Las Vegas each year.

For many years, the sign was on the outskirts of town and stood in the median to greet drivers, but now it’s surrounded by hotels and has become popular enough that a parking lot was built just for it.

coca cola store vegas

31. Check out the coca cola store

The Coca-Cola Store, a two-story attraction perfect for family outings, is filled with exciting cola-themed exhibits. Snap memorable photos with the massive glass Coke bottle outside or the Coca-Cola Bear inside. It’s a place full of fun and entertainment that won’t cost you a dime.

32. Learn to Play Casino Card Games for Free

If, like me, you know nothing about casino games other than roulette or slot machines, you can get lessons in Vegas.

Numerous casinos in Las Vegas offer free card game lessons.

Ranging from poker to blackjack, the lessons are held at various times in different casinos. Venues such as Circus Circus, Excalibur, and Luxor, to name a few, offer these lessons, but they’re popular, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

  • Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel & Casino: Monday – Friday lessons in Blackjack 10:30 am, Roulette 11:30 am, Craps 11:30 am
  • Excalibur Hotel & Casino: Monday – Friday lessons for roulette 11:00 am, blackjack 11:30 am, Craps 12:00 pm
  • Gold Coast Hotel & Casino: Friday – Sunday lessons in Craps at 11:30 am
  • Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino: Three Card Poker, Crazy 4 Poker, Let it Ride, Pai Gow Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold’Em, and Mississippi Stud Poker all daily at 10:00 am. Craps: Monday-Wednesday at 10:00 am; Thursday-Sunday at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm, blackjack daily at 11:00 am, and roulette daily at 11:30 am.
  • Luxor Hotel & Casino: Daily at the pit
  • Mohegan Sun Casino at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas: Learn to play craps and roulette like a pro! Free lessons are offered every Saturday at 12:00 pm.
  • Palms Hotel & Casino: Monday – Friday, poker lessons at 12:00 pm
  • Rampart Casino at The Resort at Summerlin: A lesson covering table games is given every Saturday at 10:00 am.
  • Sahara Hotel & Casino: Free Craps Lessons daily at 12:30 pm in the Table Game area in front of the CASBAR Lounge.
  • Strat Hotel & Casino: Craps 10:30 am, Roulette 11:30 am
  • Tropicana Hotel & Casino: Wednesday – Saturday, Craps 10:00 am, Roulette 11:00 am, Blackjack 11:30 am
  • Venetian Resort & Casino: Craps Lessons are offered Monday-Friday at 11 am.
red rock canyon las vegas

33. Hike in Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is just outside Las Vegas and well worth the trip.

Head out of the city and explore the stunning Red Rock Canyon State Park where you can go hiking, find ancient petroglyphs, and enjoy a more wholesome free activity in Las Vegas.

vegas wedding

34. Watch a Vegas wedding 

Looking for fun things to do in Las Vegas? Here’s one way to have some Vegas fun and another great option for free things in Las Vegas.

I really wanted to see someone come out of the classic Vegas wedding chapels during our stay. It didn’t happen (maybe I should’ve stood there at about 3 am rather than 3 pm?).

There are so many wedding chapels, especially as you head out of the strip towards Fremont Street.

35. Take a Boring ride through a tunnel

Elon Musk’s Boring Company is revolutionizing public transport with an innovative network of underground tunnels for Tesla rides beneath Las Vegas.

The Vegas Loop is a free and efficient way to travel, particularly during trade show events so if that’s the reason you’re in Vegas, be sure to check it out.

downtown container park fremont vegas

36. Visit the Downtown Container Park

The Downtown Container Park is just like Shoreditch’s Box Park or Brixton’s Pop Brixton.

It’s a mix of retail, dining and play made entirely of shipping containers which automatically makes it one of the cool things to do in vegas.

The difference is that there’s a huge 55ft tall, fire breathing praying mantis outside!

There is also free entertainment on most days.

pinball hall of fame

37. Browse the Pinball Hall of Fame

The Pinball Hall of Fame is one of the free museums in Las Vegas that make it wonderfully weird.

Take a trip back in time at the Pinball Hall of Fame, which houses a vast collection of vintage pinball machines and arcade games from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s.

It’s fun and free to look at, and any money you do spend goes to charity.

free things to do in Vegas

38. Look at Other People’s Money

Of all the crazy things you can see, one of the more unique things to do in Las Vegas is to see a stack of money. 

Yes, really. So if you’re still wondering what to see in Las Vegas, here’s an answer. Getting hold of this stack of dollars is even better than finding Las Vegas freebies.

The Gold Tower hotel is home to a Golden Nugget which was found in Australia in 1980. It was then sold for more than a million dollars!

You can also get your picture taken with a million dollars at Binion’s Gambling Hall home of this free attraction in Las Vegas.

39. Park MGM Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll through the leafy Park MGM Promenade, a relaxing outdoor space connecting various attractions, including the Aria, New York New York hotel, and T-Mobile Arena.

Don’t forget to take a selfie with the neon-lit 40-foot Bliss Dance statue!

41. Get money for watching new TV pilots

Unfortunately, this one is just for American citizens who live outside of Vegas so I couldn’t take part.  But if you are American then you can get free money just for watching some TV pilots!

Now that’s got to be on a list of top 10 things to do on the Las Vegas strip.

To do so just sign up at the CBS Television City area in MGM Grand. Simply give your feedback and walk away with some money.

They were paying $30 when we were there so it’s more than just a cheap thing to do in Vegas! It’s free entertainment in Las Vegas.

42. Visit the Pawn Stars shop

Fans of the popular TV show “Pawn Stars” shouldn’t miss a visit to the iconic Harrison family’s pawn shop in Downtown Las Vegas.

As you explore the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, you’ll see an array of interesting items on sale.

Even though the show’s stars Rick, Corey, and Chumlee may not be physically present, life-sized cutouts of them add an element of fun to your visit.

Soak up the atmosphere and pretend you’re starring in an episode of the show as you browse.

43. See live music

If you’re a music lover, Las Vegas won’t disappoint. The city offers numerous venues with free live music performances.

Some popular places include the Sand Dollar Lounge, known for its late-night blues, Carnaval Court, which offers live music and flair bartenders, and the Count Room, a speakeasy with live jazz on weekends.

For the most lively atmosphere, head to the Fremont Street Experience, where you’ll find stages featuring local acts all year long and famous headliners during the spring and fall Downtown Rocks concert series.

cathedral gorge state park

44. Visit Nevada’s State Parks

Las Vegas may be famous for its casinos and nightlife, but nature lovers can find solace in the beautiful state parks of Nevada.

Through the Nevada State Parks Library Park Pass program, you can borrow a free day-use entry permit from the local library, which grants access to any of the 27 state parks in NV.

This includes gems such as Valley of Fire, Spring Mountain Ranch, Cathedral Gorge, and Big Bend of the Colorado.

This program, which started in 2023, offers a cheap way to explore Nevada’s diverse natural beauty.

45. Study booze like a professional

If you’re keen to know more about drinks, the Las Vegas Beverage Academy is the place to go for free stuff in Las Vegas to do.

The academy offers free classes and seminars to the public during the first half of the year.

Though primarily aimed at working professionals in the food and beverage industry, the academy also welcomes enthusiasts with a serious interest in all things drink.

circus circus free show vegas

46. See a free circus show

Another of the best free things to do in Vegas is to go see a circus show.

There are loads of free shows in Vegas but did you know about this one?

Circus Circus has circus performers that take to the Carnival Midway stage twice an hour throughout the day.

They include trapeze artists, aerial acrobats, and clowns.

  • Circus Circus showtimes: 1:30 pm. Monday – Thursday and 11:30 am. Friday – Sunday

47. Free arts in Downtown on First Friday

First Friday is a celebration of arts and culture that takes place on the first Friday of every month in Downtown Las Vegas.

It’s full of color, creativity, and community spirit and it once started as an art exhibition, before growing into a party with food trucks and music.

You can stroll through various art exhibits, indulge in delicious street food, and join the festive atmosphere as the night progresses all for free!

las vegas murals

48. Downtown Art Murals 

Las Vegas has more than 30 spectacular murals downtown that are super cool to go and find.

These large-scale artworks, known as the Downtown Art Murals, are the masterpieces of internationally acclaimed artists.

The murals, first featured at the Life Is Beautiful festival give a dash of color and vibrancy to the city’s landscape.

One must-see is the first ever 100% solar-powered art mural on Seventh Street. It not only illuminates the installation but also contributes energy to the city!

vegas grand canal shoppes

49. Window Shop the Grand Canal Shoppes

The Grand Canal Shoppes in Las Vegas, connected to The Venetian and The Palazzo, is a luxury shopping mall inspired by Venice in Italy.

There are over 160 high-end and popular retail stores as well as places to get food.

The mall is well-known for its indoor gondola rides and cobblestone walkways which really make you feel like you’re in Venice (a bit anyway).

As you walk, you’ll also come across live performances, the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the incredibly cool ‘sky ceiling’.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden

50. Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden

A trip to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden is a feast for both the taste buds and the eyes.

You can watch the process of chocolate-making, and even create your own box of goodies. Strangely, the factory is home to a botanical gardens that you can walk around.

During the holiday season, the garden has a display of twinkling lights added to it and the best part is, it’s all free!

top golf pool vegas

51. Go swimming at Topgolf

If your hotel doesn’t have a pool you can visit the pool at Topgolf in Vegas for free.

This pool is open to those aged 21 and over and is called the Hideaway Pool. Spending an afternoon chilling out here is a great idea for cheap things to do in Vegas for couples.

It’s quite a well-kept secret and is usually not too crowded, especially on weekdays.

mystic falls vegas

52. Discover Mystic Falls

Mystic Falls is a favorite amongst Vegas locals ad is an indoor park, in the Sam’s Town Casino.

This park will make you feel like you’re in a Wild West-themed mountain landscape. And, as you wander among the trees, you’ll hear the sounds of chirping birds, howling wolves, and a roaring waterfall; it’s pretty cool.

Free parking in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has plenty of free parking options.

Self-parking is available without any charges at various hotels and casinos including the Venetian, Sahara, Treasure Island, Palazzo, Circus Circus, Wynn/Encore, Stratosphere, Tropicana, Shoppes at Crystals, and the Fashion Show Mall.

Plus, all MGM properties offer an hour of free parking.

Several hotels also provide complimentary parking for their guests, with some even offering valet services at no extra cost.

  • Note: Free parking doesn’t mean free campervan parking or free overnight camping.

Where to stay in Vegas

One of the best things about Las Vegas is that the hotels are surprisingly affordable for what you get. One thing you do need to bear in mind is that there’s often a sneaky resort fee added to the price per night.

This is often shown in the additional details on Booking.com and can vary hugely.

Overall the hotels aren’t usually too pricey, but make sure you check that so you’re not shocked at checkout when paying the bill!

Here are some of my picks of the best hotels in Vegas:

  • Hyatt Place Las Vegas at Silverton Village: A modern hotel located 6.7 km from Mandalay Bay Convention Center, featuring a fitness center, free WiFi, outdoor swimming pool, and complimentary breakfast, with all rooms equipped with a variety of amenities including a fridge and a flat-screen TV.
  • The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas: A luxurious 5-star resort on the Las Vegas Strip offering spacious suites, over 40 international restaurants, a state-of-the-art casino, and a 1.2-acre pool deck, with the on-site Grand Canal Shoppes and access to the Canyon Ranch Spa + Fitness gym.
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Club Flamingo Las Vegas: Situated on the grounds of the Flamingo Las Vegas, this hotel offers comfortable studios and suites with fully-equipped kitchens and deep soaking tubs, also providing access to the Flamingo Hotel & Casino “GO Pool” and select restaurants and amenities at the Flamingo Resort.
  • The ENGLiSH Hotel, Las Vegas, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: Ideally located, offering air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and a terrace, with guests having the ability to enjoy American or Asian breakfast and receive assistance from a multilingual 24-hour front desk.
  • M Resort Spa & Casino: Located off Interstate 15, offering non-stop entertainment, various dining options, and a full-service spa, with upscale rooms featuring a 42-inch flat-screen HDTV, an in-room refreshment center, and marble-floored bathrooms with TVs.

FAQs about the best free things to do Las Vegas

Where is the best free view in Las Vegas?

For the best free view, head to the Bellagio Fountains. Their water shows, set against the backdrop of the city’s twinkling lights, offer a unique and beautiful view.

How can I enjoy Vegas without gambling?

There’s a lot more to Vegas than gambling. You can visit the city’s many attractions in Las Vegas for free like the Bellagio Fountains, the Volcano at the Mirage, and the Fremont Street Experience. You can also explore the city’s art scene, indulge in its culinary offerings, shop, catch free live music performances, or relax at one of the many free-entry pools around the city.

How can I have fun in Vegas without spending money?

You can have a fantastic time in Vegas without spending a dime. Attend free live music performances, visit the iconic “Pawn Stars” shop, or explore state parks with a free pass from the local library. You can also take a tour of the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, watch a circus show at Circus Circus, or immerse yourself in the free arts scene with First Friday and Downtown Art Murals.

What to do in Vegas for free?

You can find many free activities Las Vegas offers in this post. E.g. you can enjoy art and culture at the First Friday event downtown, explore Downtown Art Murals, visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden, swim at Topgolf’s Hideaway Pool, and watch the free circus show at Circus Circus. Additionally, you can enjoy free live music at various venues and explore Nevada’s state parks.

Final thoughts on free things to do in Vegas during the day

Las Vegas isn’t just about extravagant shows and high-stakes gambling; there’s an abundance of fun cheap things to do in Vegas too.

Whether you’re captivated by the stunning street performances, mesmerized by the iconic fountains, or enraptured by the fascinating free exhibitions, Las Vegas truly caters to all budgets.

These experiences highlight that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the vibrant energy of Sin City.

If you’re spending longer exploring Western America, be sure to check out some of the fun things to do near Vegas such as Death Valley National Park and visiting the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

Last Updated on July 19, 2023 by Hannah

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