10 Vegas Activities People Say Are Actually Worth the Money
Las Vegas dazzles visitors with endless entertainment options and attractions competing for your attention and money. With so many choices, deciding which activities are worth your hard-earned cash and which ones you should skip can feel overwhelming.
Fear not! We’re here to help. In this guide, we’re sharing the top ten Vegas activities that get a thumbs up from recent visitors.
Ready to go? Let’s dive in!
(This article may contain affiliate links, and we could earn a commission if you use them to make a purchase.)
Where This Info Comes From
This isn’t just a single person’s opinion. We’ve researched thousands of comments on Reddit and other forums to obtain a wide range of viewpoints. The result? A guide based on what real people think.
1. Helicopter Ride Over The Strip
A helicopter tour gives you amazing views of Las Vegas that you can’t get any other way. At night, the city lights create a magical scene from above.
Maverick Helicopter tours are known for consistent quality, and are the number one choice for Strip night flights. The good news is that every seat has a great view thanks to large windows.
Tours typically last 15-45 minutes. The company will even pick you up from your hotel. Book your flight here (Viator) to save money on this unique experience.
2. Cirque du Soleil’s ‘O’ Show
You’ll be amazed by the stunning water acrobatics and artistic performances at ‘O’. Many visitors say it’s worth the $400 price tag for two people, making it one of Vegas’s must-see shows.
The best seats depend on what you want to see. Choose middle or back seats for a full view of the massive pool and diving performances. These spots let you take in all the action at once.
If you pick balcony seats, expect cooler temperatures. Bring a light jacket to stay comfortable during the show.
The show combines swimming, diving, and acrobatics in ways you’ve never seen before. You’ll see performers soar through the air and plunge into a pool that appears and disappears like magic.
Find the best prices on ‘O’ by Cirque du Soleil tickets here.
3. Dinner at é by José Andrés
You’ll find this intimate dining experience tucked away inside Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan. Your evening starts with special aperitifs at a table outside the restaurant before moving to the exclusive counter seating.
The price tag runs about $290 per person plus tax and tip, but you’re paying for more than just food. The chefs interact with you throughout the meal, answering questions and sharing stories about each creative dish.
With only 10 seats available, you must book well in advance. The knowledgeable sommelier adds to the experience, making every wine pairing special and educational.
4. Grand Canyon Day Trip
A Grand Canyon day trip from Vegas takes commitment – it’s over 4 hours each way. You’ll spend most of your time driving rather than enjoying the views.
If you want to make it worth your time and money, consider booking a tour and leaving the driving and logistics to someone else.
A driving tour (see bus tours here) will allow you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery, while a helicopter tour (book one of these amazing helicopter tours) will provide you with unmatched views and won’t take an entire day.
If you’re short on time but still want to see some of the amazing scenery near Las Vegas, try visiting Zion National Park, which is half the distance away. You can take a scenic tour (see Zion tour options and prices) and enjoy several amazing short hikes.
5. VIP Pool Party Experience
Getting a VIP experience at a Vegas pool party can transform your daytime fun into something truly special. Pool party cabanas and VIP tables give you a perfect home base to enjoy the festivities.
Your VIP status comes with perks like a dedicated server, shade from the sun, and comfortable seating. You’ll skip the long entry lines and get prime spots near the action.
Keep in mind that VIP bottle service at popular pool parties can cost around $2,500 or more for a group. This includes several bottles plus automatic gratuity and taxes.
The earlier you arrive, the more value you’ll get from your VIP experience. You can enjoy the pool before it gets crowded and take advantage of amenities like pool floaties and prime seating.
6. Gondola Ride at The Venetian
The Venetian gondola rides offer you two options – indoor or outdoor. Both give you a unique Vegas twist on this Italian tradition.
Your gondolier will serenade you while steering through the canals. It’s a perfect romantic activity for couples or a fun experience with friends.
You’ll need to book your tickets in person on the day of your ride. For the best experience, try the outdoor ride during sunset when the weather is nice.
The rides might seem pricey, but many visitors say they’re worth it. You get great photo opportunities and a memorable Vegas moment that’s different from the usual casino activities.
7. SkyJump at The STRAT
The SkyJump at The STRAT offers a controlled leap from 829 feet above the Las Vegas Strip. At night, the view is spectacular, with the lights on the strip making the experience extra magical.
You’ll get the best value by looking for package deals. Room and jump combos can save you money, especially if you’re jumping with someone else.
If you’re not staying at The Strat and want to do the jump, check out the Skyjump options and prices here.
While some find the controlled descent too mild, others love the unique thrill. If you want a more intense experience, you might prefer traditional skydiving instead (book a tandem skydive here). The choice depends on your adventure comfort level.
8. Fremont Street Zipline
The Slotzilla zipline sends you soaring above the crowds on Fremont Street. You can choose between two zipline options – a lower line or the “superhero” style where you fly face-down.
For between $45 and $65 per ride, you get a unique view of the famous Fremont Street canopy and all the action below. The experience is especially thrilling at night when the lights are bright, and the street is buzzing with energy.
While some visitors think the price is steep for a quick ride, you’ll be right in the heart of downtown Vegas afterward. This puts you in a perfect spot to explore the nearby attractions, street performers, and entertainment.
9. Luxury Spa Day at Wynn
The Wynn and Encore spas rank among the most luxurious relaxation spots in Las Vegas. You’ll find peaceful rooms with cozy fireplaces and comfortable lounges that create a truly intimate atmosphere.
Both spas offer top-tier treatments, but the Wynn spa provides a more intimate setting. Your day pass gives you access to plunge pools, steam rooms, and saunas.
While spa treatments can be expensive, the experience matches the price tag. The exceptional service and beautiful facilities make it worth splurging on during your Vegas trip.
You can spend hours moving between different relaxation areas, making it a perfect escape from the busy Strip. The peaceful environment helps you recharge before heading back to the excitement of Vegas.
10. Machine Guns Vegas Experience
Want to fire real machine guns in a safe, controlled environment? Las Vegas offers several popular machine gun ranges where you can do just that.
You’ll get expert instruction from trained professionals who ensure your safety while letting you experience the thrill of automatic weapons. Many ranges offer free pickup from your hotel, making it easy to visit.
While the experience isn’t cheap, you’re paying for high-quality firearms, ammunition, and professional instruction at specialized facilities. Most ranges let you choose from various gun packages and experiences.
For non-gamblers looking for excitement, shooting exotic firearms offers a unique Vegas adventure you can’t find in many other places.
For one of the best options, try Battlefield Las Vegas.
Bottom-Line
Las Vegas offers plenty of free entertainment worth experiencing, like the Bellagio fountains and botanical gardens. These shows run frequently and can fill an evening without spending a dime.
Live performances and shows give you the most value for your entertainment dollar. Cirque du Soleil productions stand out as must-see experiences that justify their ticket prices.
The best strategy is mixing free and paid activities. Start your day exploring hotel attractions at no cost, then treat yourself to a great meal or show in the evening.
Remember to set a budget before you arrive. The bright lights and excitement can make it easy to overspend, especially in casinos where electronic payments make spending feel less real.
Pro tip: Book shows and restaurants in advance to get better rates and ensure availability during your stay. You’ll thank yourself later!
