If you think Las Vegas, Nevada, is just a hot spot for gamblers and buffet lovers, think again. Beyond its most recognized attraction, Vegas is home to a bevy of activities for families looking for entertainment, couples looking for romance, and singles on the hunt for fun including spa experiences and shopping options from around the world.
And if you’ve walked the strip one too many times, say no more, Vegas is also known to reinvent itself every two years, so every now and then a return trip is necessary. Check out a few of the top activities to do in Vegas for non-gamblers:
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Family fun
Yoga Among Dolphins at the Mirage Hotel — For a not so typical Las Vegas activity, the 60-minute yoga among dolphins class is worth every penny. The cost includes access to a full-day at the Mirage spa facilities, which features a sauna, hot and cold soaking tubs, and a steam room. You’ll also have access to lockers, fruit, coffee, water, and a smoothie afterward. When you sign in for class, you’ll walk from the hotel to the dolphin sanctuary, where you’ll gather in a small room at the bottom of the dolphin tank. The classroom is surrounded by three large windows perfectly situated for spectacular views of these amazing creatures swimming around the tank. And, if you take a moment to interact with them through the window, there’s a big chance they’ll say ‘hi!’
Michael Jackson ONE Show by Cirque du Soleil
From a musical trip down memory lane featuring the best hits from Michael Jackson to the incredible dance moves and acrobatics flying in the air, MJ One is a must-see show. Check out our detailed review of the show here.
Slotzilla Zip Line
Whether you crave heart-stopping thrill rides or you’ve been thinking about zip-lining but you’re not quite sure if you’re ready for the big leagues–Slotzilla is an amazing experience. Located in downtown Las Vegas, Slotzilla is a 12-story slot machine (literally in the middle of the street) featuring a thrilling 20-minute experience. The ride offers two options: the high line and low line. During the low line ride, you sit in a chair which takes you over half of Freemont Street. With the high line, you’re strapped into a harness in a superman-like horizontal position, then you’ll take off, flying over the old Las Vegas strip featuring classic neon signs and hotels.
The Neon Museum
If you’re looking for a quick get away from the craziness of the strip, a visit to the Neon Museum’s outdoor exhibit, also known as the Boneyard, is a great way to take a much-needed break. The Neon Museum is a nonprofit organization which takes you back in time with an incredible display of old rescued hotel and restaurant signs. And it offers some incredible insight into African American contributions to Las Vegas. For instance, according to the Neon Museum:
- Paul Revere Williams is the African American architect of the iconic La Concha Motel lobby which today serves as the museum’s visitor’s center.
- Sarann Knight-Preddy owned the Moulin Rouge casino for many years and was the first African American to receive a Nevada gaming license.
- In the days of discrimination, Foxy’s Casino at Sahara Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard was one of the few places to serve black patrons.
In February, the Neon Museum will spotlight African American History on Boneyard Tours.
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Couples or singles night out on the town
In Vegas, there’s no shortage of places to eat. But if you’re looking for an experience, check out Costa Di Mare and Estiatorio Milos.
Dinner at Costa Di Mare at WYNN -Chef Mark LoRusso and staff deliver an unforgettable combination of ambiance, service, and delicious Mediterranean seafood. Servers are very well educated in food history and preparation. Seafood is delivered from a secret location and the menu is created nightly. The waiter kicks off your experience with a table side introduction to the seafood cart featuring rare types of fish such as live langoustines. Although, the full menu includes everything from seafood to pasta and beef, the tasting menu is highly recommended. The reasons to dine at Costa Di Mare don’t stop at the food. Sure, the interior is beautifully decorated, but the outdoor dining space is the place to be. While seated outdoors, you’ll dine in one of the posh cabanas situated around a pool which features a series of tropical fish. While you know you’re technically in Vegas, the ambiance takes you to a romantic place somewhere off the coast of Italy.
Estiatorio Milos Restaurant at The Cosmopolitan — If you love
Greek food, treat yourself to Milos. They have a great lunch special, food-wine pairings and if you’re a seafood lover–the grilled octopus salad, and sea bass is a must! For dessert try the walnut cake with Kaimaki ice cream.Helicopter Night Tour of Las Vegas Strip
There’s simply no comparison between walking the strip and flying high above it. So for a one-of-a-kind amazing experience, you have to try a helicopter tour at night. Considering the helicopters have four seats in each row, the window seat is your best option. Maverick Helicopters also offers tours of the Grand Canyon–which comes highly recommended as well.
Happy Hour on a Ferris Wheel at the LINQ
If you’re looking for happy hour spots in Vegas, the choices can be overwhelming. So for a cool alternative way to spend happy hour, head to the High Roller for a 30-minute ride about 550 feet high above street level. The cabins come equipped with a fully stocked bar with alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks. And kids under 12 can ride for free. Afterward, you can take a stroll around The LINQ Promenade, an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment district.