5 Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling: Unique Guide
Most people think about Las Vegas and the first thing that comes to their mind is the poker and casino machines. But what they don’t know is that there are so many things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling. I have visited Las Vegas several times and never played in the casino (not even to test my luck!)
This post is all about stuff to do in Vegas that involves zero betting. Whether you are looking for fun things to do in Las Vegas for the first time or you’re a seasoned visitor, I’ve included recommendations on how to get there, where to stay, and the unique things to do in Las Vegas.
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How to get to Las Vegas?
- By Flight: The easiest way to get to Las Vegas is by flying into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).
- By Car: Some people visiting Los Angeles rent a car to travel here. However, I don’t recommend this unless you absolutely love road trips because it takes at least 4 hours. If you are interested in the drive, from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, this blog from California through my lens has a great post that includes several recommended stops, which adds more time to your 4-hour trip.
How to get to the Las Vegas Strip from the airport?
To get to the Las Vegas Strip from the airport, the best way is to use a ride share. Las Vegas is one of the busiest cities in the USA, so be prepared to wait for your ride. They have an excellent system to organize the pickup logistics, but you need to know which terminal you are in:
- Terminal 1 (Primary for Domestic): The ride share is on Level 2 of the parking garage. Please note there is a very long walk to get here from the gate, so comfortable shoes and luggage with rollers are highly recommended.
- Terminal 3 (Primary for International): The ride share pickup is located in the Valet area of the Parking garage.
Note: You can find the official airport ride share directions here.
Map of what is there to do in Vegas?
Here’s a map with all the places mentioned in this post, which I prepared for you to have handy for your upcoming visit to Las Vegas.
How to navigate this map: Click the menu icon in the top-left corner to view all pinned locations. To see a full-screen version, click the icon in the top-right corner, or select the Share button to send this map directly to your email for easy access during your trip.
Things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling: my top recommendations
1. F1 Go-Karts in Las Vegas (F1 DRIVE)
Even if you are not a Formula 1 fan, you need to go to the F1 go-kart circuit experience. The circuit is indoor/outdoor and located in the actual F1 Pit Building. They have only one circuit, and we did only one race, but they offer several packages for multiple races.
The karts go up to 30mph, and you don’t need any prior experience to ride the kart. They give you a balaclava (a cloth head-cover) to use underneath the helmet, and you can keep it as a souvenir. Before getting into the kart, they give you a safety briefing and instructions on how to use the wheel buttons.
During the briefing, I was so focused on watching the previous group that drove the karts before us that I missed some of the technical details. Since you can’t exactly chat while everyone is driving fast during the race, my husband (who is a huge F1 fan) had to explain the “Overtake Mode” and “Energy Recovery System (ERS)” boost buttons to me right after the briefing ended, so I was ready to go.
The loops are for timing, and there is a podium where you can take a photo. At the end of the race, you can see the winners’ results on a big screen.
Things to Know Before Visiting F1 Go-Karts
- Check the Calendar: Don’t visit during the Las Vegas Grand Prix (usually in November), as the F1 go-kart experience is closed for the actual race.
- Footwear is Key: Don’t visit with sandals or open shoes. I made this mistake, and they provided me with closed shoes that were massive and so uncomfortable (they actually had to stuff them with socks just to make them stay on my feet).
- Custom Fit: When you sit in the kart, they adjust the pedals for you. If you’re short like me, don’t worry—they provide a seat booster so you can reach everything.
- Storage: There are lockers available to store your belongings, as you aren’t allowed to bring anything onto the track with you.
2. Las Vegas adult pool
Some hotels in Las Vegas allow non-guests to enjoy the facility for a fee. If you visit in the summer, you will definitely need to hit a pool to get refreshed due to the high temperatures.
While Strip pools can get crowded, we found that others are not enjoyable for a quiet time. If you are looking for the best pool in Las Vegas for adults to decompress, visit the Virgin Hotel adult pool (21+), Kassi Beach Club.
It has a fee starting at a $150 food and beverage minimum. You can visit the official Kassi Beach Club at the Virgin Hotel Las Vegas for cabana and seating options.
3. Las Vegas Sphere concert (BSB Residency)
The Sphere opened in 2023 as a venue for concerts and shows. It is the first sphere structure in the world (with a second planned for Abu Dhabi). It is built with thousands of LEDs with an impressive 16k resolution. We visited for the Backstreet Boys residency.
Even if you aren’t a fan of my favorite boy band, the venue itself is mind-blowing. The way they use the massive screens inside and outside as part of the show is an experience that is totally worth it.
4. Visit the best hotel lobby in Las Vegas
One of the most fun things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada, for free is “lobby hopping.” It costs nothing, and you will see everything from creative to luxury designs. Some hotels, like Circus Circus Hotel and Casino, even host free circus acts throughout the day.
The best part is that most hotels are connected, so you can walk from one to another without ever going outside—a lifesaver in the 100°F summer heat (though it’s also great in the winter when it’s too cold).
While there are dozens to explore, you can’t leave Las Vegas without visiting these two:
Luxor Hotel & Casino
The Luxor Hotel exterior resembles the Great Pyramids, but the interior engineering is even more impressive. It features the largest atrium in the world by volume.
When you stand in the middle of the lobby and look up into that huge open space, you can see the room hallways wrapping around the entire perimeter of the pyramid’s inner walls. Looking up at the open scale of the hollow interior is a perspective you won’t find anywhere else.
Venetian Resort Las Vegas
At the Venetian Resort, you feel instantly transported to Italy. The lobby features an indoor river system and bridges designed to look exactly like the Venetian canals. Taking a gondolier ride is a must if you want to feel that romantic vibe of riding in a traditional Venetian boat right in the middle of the Las Vegas desert.
Gondola Ride Options:
- The indoor gondola ride on Level 2 within the Grand Canal Shoppes is the most popular.
Pro Tip: If you book the indoor ride, try to time it for when the gondoliers sing in unison (this happens twice a day during the month of March).
- The outdoor gondola ride on Level 1 near the Venetian Hotel entrance.
5. Visit Las Vegas best shows
There are numerous shows for any taste. From musical tributes like the Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil (which is actually my mom’s favorite), to legendary magic with the David Copperfield show, or even a more adult vibe like the famous Chippendales show (a total classic for bachelorette parties).
If you have limited time, I definitely recommend “O” by Cirque du Soleil. We were so impressed with this show. The stage features a massive pool that the acrobats use to create a surreal aquatic world.
The performers are so perfectly synchronized, and the show itself is so mind-blowing that it’s worth every penny of your ticket. There is so much happening behind the curtains that I can’t fully describe it, but this article from CNET explains all the underwater magic and hidden tech behind it.
Since these are the most popular experiences in the city, I’ve linked where you can find the best availability and secure your spots in advance:
Where to stay in Las Vegas?
1. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Flamingo Las Vegas
The Hilton Grand Vacations Club Flamingo Las Vegas is my top choice because it gives you quick access to the Strip while still feeling tucked away from the heaviest crowds.
Note: One thing to note is that the entrance is actually located behind the main Flamingo Las Vegas hotel, which adds to that quieter, more exclusive feel.
When we stayed here with family, we specifically wanted a kitchen to prepare our vegan breakfast (subscribe below to know when my full guide on where to find the best vegan food in Las Vegas is posted).
We booked a unique setup with two separate rooms: one was a studio and the second had a separate bedroom, a full kitchen, and a living room. Both shared a main entrance foyer, which was perfect for staying together while having our own space.
2. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton
It is the official hotel partner of the East Harmon Zone, meaning you are within easy walking distance of the F1 Pit Building, the starting line, and all the main stage action.
3. The Venetian Las Vegas
While it’s located right on the Strip, I specifically recommend The Venetian if you’re attending a show at the Sphere. The hotel has direct bridge access to the venue, which is a total lifesaver.
You will thank me later—trying to navigate the crowds or even find a rideshare after a show ends can be a nightmare, and this bridge saves you a massive headache.
How many days should you spend in Las Vegas?
It depends on what you want to see. You can fit a lot into one day, but I recommend at least two days to enjoy both the day and nightlife, which are totally different vibes. If you want to do a day trip to the Hoover Dam, add another full day.
Overall, things to do in Vegas other than gamble
There is so much to see and do in Las Vegas besides gambling, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re diving into the “hollow” engineering of the Luxor Hotel, catching a world-class show like “O” by Cirque du Soleil, or relaxing at a boutique pool, the city offers a high-end experience that goes far beyond the casino floor.
I actually visited Las Vegas this last time right after exploring the luxury spas and boutique hotels in Portland, Oregon (you can check out my one- day guide to Portland here). If you are planning a larger West Coast adventure, I’ve also written a comprehensive itinerary for San Diego, California, to help you plan the perfect trip.
Safe travels, and I can’t wait to hear which Las Vegas show becomes your new favorite!
