38 Insanely Cheap Things To Do In Las Vegas: Free Attractions and Shows

Cheap things to do in Las Vegas that don’t require any money at all: free shows in Vegas, free activities, and stuff for all ages.

With shimmering lights, funky-themed hotels, and fun activities for all interests, for good reason, Las Vegas is one of the most popular cities in the US. Well known for being the location to gamble, Vegas is where visitors typically spend a pretty penny on attractions, dining, concerts, shopping, and live performances. 

Whether you stumbled on this article because you’re running out of cash or you’re frugal and want to spend wisely, read this Las Vegas travel guide for plenty of cheap things to do in Las Vegas that do not require spending a dime. Discover the best free things to do in Vegas, the classics, and lesser-known activities you may not know about.

Free Stuff To Do in Vegas (Without Dishing Out Fists Full of Cash)

1. Welcome to Las Vegas Sign 

The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign is a famous Las Vegas landmark and a must-stop photo opportunity whether you are leaving or arriving, so get your best smile and pose ready! 

Built in 1959, the welcome sign is open 24 hours a day and right on Las Vegas Boulevard. During the day, expect a long line. 

Location: 5200 Las Vegas Blvd S Las Vegas, NV 89104

2. Linq Promenade

Linq Promenade is high on our list of free stuff in Vegas. If you enjoy people-watching, scoping out restaurants and bars, or being in the center of all the action, you’ll enjoy a casual stroll down the promenade. 

With a bigger budget, check out the High Roller, the biggest observation wheel in North America or the LINQ fountains’ free light show.

3. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden 

Featuring beautiful plants, sculptures, flowers, and trees that represent each season’s bright and colorful essence, visit the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden.

Note the conservatory changes five times a year for Chinese New Year, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Between each seasonal change, the conservatory is under construction, so check their website to double-check the conservatory will be open during your visit. 

Unfortunately, during our recent trip to Vegas, the conservatory was closed. 

When you walk into the Bellagio lobby you’ll be greeted by this prolific art piece.

4. Bellagio Chocolate Fountain 

This one is for chocolate connoisseurs. The Bellagio Chocolate Fountain, created by Montreal artist Michel Mailhot, is the largest chocolate fountain ever built. 

5. Bellagio Water Fountain Show

Worth all the hype, as a Las Vegas iconic attraction, the Bellagio Water Fountain Show is spectacular and runs multiple times daily.

If you come around the holidays, there are special holiday-themed performances. 

6. Flamingo Habitat & Conservatory 

One of our favorite free Vegas attractions, immerse yourself in the lush space that is located behind the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino.

The garden is home to a herd of Chilean flamingos as well as streams, waterfalls, exotic birds, turtles, fish, and ducks.

This attraction is completely free, peaceful to explore, and an excellent time for the whole family.

Consider taking your kids to this famous site as a family outing; they will be delighted.

7. The Volcano at the Mirage

Here’s another free attraction on Las Vegas Boulevard that has been thrilling visitors for more than 30 years.

Families will appreciate visiting the Mirage Volcano with children taking joy in watching the volcano erupt to lights, fire, and music!

The volcano fires every hour, starting at 8 pm and ends at 11 pm.

The Mirage Atrium has an unforgettable rich, colorful indoor rainforest, which is surrounded by lagoons with lush tropical plants like orchids and birds of paradise. There’s also palm trees rising 60 feet over the waterfall.

8. Seven Magic Mountains

For those who appreciate visual art, Seven Magic Mountains by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone’s is a must-see near Las Vegas. Towering over 30 feet above the Nevada desert, admire seven enormous brightly painted boulders. This makes for an excellent photo spot.

9. Fremont Street Experience

Everyone can enjoy Fremont Street. Here you can catch free performances by bands and DJs.

On Viva Vision, one of the biggest video screens in the world, watch a fantastic light show which runs all night long. A canopy lit up above the Fremont Experience features nightly light shows.

10. The Aquarium at Silverton Casino

Did you know there’s a free aquarium in Vegas?

If you want to see mermaids, go to the Silverton Casino Hotel.

The charming and skilled mermaids take you to a magical and fantastical aquatic realm.

The aquarium also features 160 different species and 4,000 fish. 

11. The Arts Factory 

Featuring a wide variety of art, this hub is home to over 30 artists and art galleries from a collection of painters, architects, photographers, and graphic designers.

12. Downtown Art Murals 

Do you want to take in more Las Vegas art? If so, enjoy art murals right on the city streets. 

Find over 30 colorful murals produced by local and well-known international painters.

13. Ethel M Chocolates and Cactus Garden

Do you enjoy gardens and chocolate? If so, Ethel M Chocolates offers free, self-guided factory tours so anyone can observe chocolate-making in action.

Also housing Nevada’s biggest botanical cactus garden, there are over 300 different desert plant species here — it’s one of the biggest collections of its kind. 

Also, during the Christmas season, don’t miss the garden beautifully decorated with over 1 million bright glittering holiday lights.

14. Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas

Wynn’s famous water show combines gigantic puppets, immersive music, and cutting-edge sound and lighting design to create a spectacular experience.

As you explore the resort’s free viewing platform, get ready to be amazed by the incredible backdrop and visuals created by a top-notch team that includes Emmy-winning directors, producers, and lighting designers.

Grab a seat on the upstairs balcony and enjoy the show, which runs every 30 minutes. The seating area is right next to the registration desk.

15. Mystic Falls Park 

For cheap things to do in Las Vegas Valley, visit Mystic Falls Park, a 10-story atrium inside Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall which houses a waterfall and lush surroundings that serve as the backdrop for Sunset Stampede. This performance combines water, lasers, lights, music, and robotic animals.

16. Backyard Playground At Gold Spike

Locals often get together here — Backyard Playground at Gold Spike features a backyard with large lawn games and fire pits, and admission is free! 

With so many things to do, you can enjoy yourself without spending money if you’d like.

Games include Giant Beer Pong, Octopong, Four Square, Cornhole, Giant Jenga, and many more. 

17. First Fridays

Join First Friday to support 100 participating artists. Every month on the first Friday, there is a free art fair in the heart of Las Vegas. This is a terrific way to meet locals and get a feel for local life. 

18. Gold Strike Hot Springs 

Are you looking for some outdoor action when visiting Las Vegas? If so, head to Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs. This hot springs adventure provides fantastic wildlife viewing, historical exploration, and plenty of relaxation.

Beware, the breathtaking view requires a challenging climb.

19. Circus Acts at CIRCUS CIRCUS

Here there are plenty of thrilling circus acts to keep you entertained, from jugglers, clowns, freestyle BMX, and more!

20. M&MS WORLD

With photo opportunities around every turn, take pictures with life-size M&M’s characters at M&M’s World. You may even get a chance to watch their no-cost 3-D film. 

Other stores to check out for similar experiences include the Hershey Store and Ethel M Chocolate Factory.

21. Fall Of Atlantis Show at the Caesar Forum Shop

Join the retelling of the famous tale from Greek mythology about the destruction of the city of Atlantis.

The free performance amuses viewers with special effects and animated characters. There is a 20-foot winged dragon as well as costumes and props that were even made by the same crew that worked on Thor and Pirates of the Caribbean. 

Starts daily at 12 pm and goes until 8 pm every hour. 

 22. Big Elvis at Harrah’s Piano Bar

Join Big Elvis at Harrah’s Piano Bar if you’re an Elvis fan or want an authentic Vegas experience. 

Big Elvis is a well-liked performance you absolutely must see, all for free!

23. The Grand Canal Shoppes

Take a themed trip to Italy at the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian.

The beautiful cobblestone streets, painted ceilings, and a canal with gondolas will transport you to Venice. 

Also, stop by St. Mark’s Square to watch the free show, Streetmosphere, which features classically trained musicians and performers.

Open daily, expect different Italian-inspired live performances from classic to modern tunes from 1 pm to 5 pm. 

24. Line Dancing at Gilley’s

Go to Gilley’s for free line dancing lessons. This is a fantastic way to interact with locals and discover a different side of Las Vegas.

 25. Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan Resort features a variety of striking and engaging artwork, including digital art pieces and photography, that may be viewed on your own or as part of a guided tour. 

26. The Light Show at Eiffel Tower Paris

Visit the Eiffel Tower Replica to get a free taste of Paris. 

The Paris Hotel and Casino’s replica of the Eiffel Tower features a captivating, glitzy, and vibrant light show that takes place every hour and a half from sunset to midnight.

The display from the Strip contains more than 300 colored lights and 800 strobe lights.

27. Las Vegas Walk of Stars

Las Vegas Walk of Stars was created to recognize those who contributed to Vegas’s renowned fame. Numerous featured celebrities include Wayne Newton, Frank Marino, and Elvis Presley.

28. Free Pulls on Vegas Slot Machines

Want to go to the casino without having to pay anything? Did you know Vegas actually offers free gambling attractions? 

Nearly all the casinos on the Strip and downtown area have these. Some machines are labeled throughout casinos as free play, while others require you to sign up for a free rewards program to participate.

The El Cortez Hotel and Fremont Strip also provide free drinks and have a boarding pass offer where you get a free slot play by presenting your boarding pass.

29. The Hand Of Faith

For the largest gold nugget discovered using a metal detector, The Hand Of Faith, is displayed at the famous Golden Nugget Casino.

30. The Container Park 

Children will enjoy playing at this unique playground with a 33-foot-tall slide in a tree house, a NEOS play system, and large foam building blocks.

Unwind while enjoying free performances, films, or visit the outdoor shopping complex overflowing with boutiques and restaurants.

31. Window Shopping at The Forum Shops

Stroll through this upscale indoor and outdoor shopping center, featuring an ancient Roman theme.

Because of its stunning surroundings and architecture, even if you don’t want to spend any money, window shopping is well worth it. 

32. Hideaway Pool

Whether you want to play golf or need a place to go swimming, join TopGolf and cool down poolside for no charge. The pool is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is only for individuals who are 21 and older.

 33. Free Gambling Lessons at Hotels

Similar to #28 on this cheap things to do in Las Vegas guide, any Las Vegas casinos provide free table game lessons that educate beginners on the main rules, tactics, and techniques specific to each game.

Blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, and many other games are available for free lessons.

Hotels like the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, Gold Coast Hotel & Casino, and Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel & Casino are just a few examples.

34. The Hoover Dam 

Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the Hoover Dam is located 45 minutes from Las Vegas.

Visitors can freely stroll up the top of this man-made wonder with no entrance fee or parking fee.

Generators, spillways, and intake towers can be seen throughout the path. Be on the lookout for displays and engravings that provide information about the dam’s history and construction. 

35. Art Gallery at Cirque du Soleil by Richard MacDonald 

Inside the Bellagio’s “O” Theatre lobby, browse artwork by Richard MacDonald exploring the limitless beauty of the human body.

Fun Fact: To recreate the movements of the live models for these sculptures, MacDonald used acrobats, dancers, and contortionists, making sure to include the muscle mass. 

Although you can go ahead to purchase tickets to a Cirque du Soleil show, you are not required to do so in order to browse the gallery.

36. Aria Art Walk

ARIA Campus is home to an array of captivating artwork from painters, sculptors, and installation artists. Explore on a free self-guided tour. To get the full experience, download the CityCenter Fine Art Collection app.

37. Free Parking

Despite being one of the biggest cities in the country, there is free parking in Las Vegas. Woohoo!

You can find free parking at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas or Treasure Island.

Circus Circus includes a hotel, a casino, and a theme park, with free parking.

The Wynn Encore offers free parking in addition to a gorgeously decorated hotel with lovely artwork and a flower-covered carousel.

SAHARA Las Vegas is another resort that offers free parking.

And one of the largest shopping centers in Las Vegas, the Fashion Show offers free parking.

Doing this will save you $10+ on parking.

38. Aria Tram Express 

The Bellagio, Vdara, Park MGM, The Shops at Crystals, and ARIA are all connected by an elevated track called the ARIA Express Tram. The trip from the Bellagio to the Park MGM via the Crystals Shopping Center takes two minutes and thirty seconds one way.

At the Las Vegas Strip’s southernmost point is a Mandalay Bay to Luxor to Excalibur Tram.

Another free tram is the Treasure Island to Mirage Tram. With no stops in between, the tram travels the short distance between the hotels in under five minutes. The Mirage-Treasure Island Tram’s biggest feature is that there is very little walking involved because the stops are so close to the entrances of both hotels’ casinos.

Overall, with so many free Las Vegas things to do, there’s enough to fill your itinerary for a day or an entire week. Whether you’re on a tight budget or want to save your coins for something one of a kind, Vegas is a treasure trove full of free activities, from light shows to artwork, aquariums, and more. 

A summary for free art: 

• Seven Magic Mountains: Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone’s exhibition, features seven painted boulders in the Nevada desert, perfect for visual art enthusiasts.
• The Arts Factor: This hub hosts 30+ artists, galleries, and diverse art from various mediums.
• Downtown Art Murals: Explore Las Vegas’ free art scene with over 30 vibrant murals by local and international artists.
• First Fridays: First Friday in Las Vegas hosts an art fair featuring 100 participating artists, allowing locals to meet and experience local life. 
• Cosmopolitan: Cosmopolitan Resort showcases captivating artwork, digital and photography, accessible for viewing or guided tours.
• Art Gallery at Cirque du Soleil: Richard MacDonald showcases bronze circus statues at Bellagio’s “O” Theatre lobby, showcasing the limitless beauty of the human body. Replicating live models’ movements, MacDonald uses acrobats, dancers, and contortionists to capture muscle mass.
• Aria Art Walk: Explore the ARIA Campus’s captivating artwork featuring renowned painters, sculptors, and installation artists. Enjoy the resort’s stunning architecture and starry scenery through the CityCenter Fine Art Collection app.

A summary of free shows in Vegas: 

• Linq Promenade: Stroll the promenade and enjoy LINQ fountains’ free light show!
• Bellagio Water Fountain Show: Bellagio Water Fountain, a Las Vegas attraction, offers daily free shows and holiday-themed performances.
• Fremont Street Experience: Fremont Street offers free performances, Viva Vision, and nightly light shows on its largest video screens, including a canopy.
• Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas: Wynn’s water show features puppets, music, and sound design, creating a spectacular experience. Emmy-winning directors, producers, and lighting designers create the stunning backdrop. Seats are available on the resort’s balcony for 30-minute shows.
• Mystic Falls Park: Mystic Falls Park, a 10-story atrium in Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall, hosts Sunset Stampede, a captivating performance featuring water, lasers, lights, music, and robotic animals.
• Circus Acts at CIRCUS CIRCUS: Circus Circus offers thrilling acts, kid-friendly shows, and exciting experiences.
• Fall Of Atlantis Show at the Caesar Forum Shop: Experience a free performance of Greek mythology’s Atlantis legend, featuring special effects, animated characters, and costumes by the same crew that worked on Thor and Pirates of the Caribbean!
• The Grand Canal Shoppes: St. Mark’s Square hosts a free Streetmosphere, featuring classical musicians and Italian-inspired performances daily from 1 pm to 5 pm.
• The Light Show at Eiffel Tower Paris: Experience the Eiffel Tower Replica at Paris Hotel and Casino, featuring a vibrant light show with over 300 colored and 800 strobe lights every hour and a half from sunset to midnight.

Planning Your Trip To Las Vegas

Flights: Find cheap flights to Las Vegas with Thrifty Traveler Premium. This is my favorite tool for staying in the know about flight deals and award fare sales. Use the promo code ‘TC10’ for $10 off your first year.

Lodging: Find centrally located hotels right on the Las Vegas Strip. Click on this link to go to Booking.com, a website that will let you find hotels, apartments, resorts, and villas.

Activities: Save up to 50% on Las Vegas attractions with the Go City attraction pass. Get one pass for one price. See all the sights saving you more than buying individual tickets.

What are your favorite fun free things to do in Las Vegas?

What other Las Vegas attractions should we add to our list? 

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