Las Vegas Bucket List: 6 Fun Things to Do in Vegas With Friends
Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Whether you’re organizing a girls’ weekend, a romantic getaway or your first visit to Sin City, there are SO many fun things to see and do! From incredible restaurants and luxury hotels to iconic attractions and breathtaking desert scenery, Vegas has a little something for everyone. When I booked my stay at the ARIA Hotel & Casino, I knew I was in for an adventure. And let me tell you, I had the BEST time! Today, I’m sharing my Las Vegas bucket list, including my favourite experiences, must-see attractions and tips for making the most of your trip.
1. Eat at Some of the Best Restaurants in Las Vegas
If there’s one thing you absolutely HAVE to do in Vegas, it’s enjoy the food! Las Vegas is known for its incredible dining scene, and whether you’re craving gourmet burgers, Asian cuisine or a fancy date-night dinner, you’ll find plenty of options. During my trip, we made it a priority to try some of the city’s popular restaurants, and it was easily one of my favourite parts of our getaway.
Try Gordon Ramsay’s Famous Burgers
One of our stops was Gordon Ramsay’s burger restaurant, formerly known as BurGR, at Planet Hollywood. If you’re a burger lover, this is definitely the kind of place you’ll want to look into! I ordered the Euro Burger with truffle fries, and let’s just say I was in foodie heaven. The combination of a delicious burger and crispy fries was exactly what I needed after a busy day exploring the Strip. The restaurant is now known as Gordon Ramsay Burger, so check its current menu and reservations before visiting.
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Enjoy Asian Cuisine at Red 8
Another restaurant we visited was Red 8, an Asian restaurant at Wynn Las Vegas. If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a sit-down meal between exploring hotels and attractions, this is another option to consider. One of my favourite things about visiting Vegas is how easy it is to turn a simple dinner into an entire evening out. Get dressed up, enjoy a delicious meal and then spend some time exploring the nearby resorts.
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My Vegas travel tip: Make reservations ahead of time for restaurants you’re especially excited about, particularly if you’re visiting over a weekend. Vegas is a popular destination, and nobody wants to spend their entire evening waiting for a table!
2. Watch the Famous Bellagio Fountain Show
You can’t visit Las Vegas without seeing the iconic Bellagio Fountains! Seriously, this is one of those classic Vegas experiences that deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. Located directly in front of the Bellagio Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, the fountains feature synchronized water, music and lights. It’s such a beautiful sight, especially after dark when the surrounding hotels are all lit up. We made time to watch the show during our trip, and it was one of those moments that made me stop and appreciate how spectacular Vegas really is. The best part? Watching from the public viewing area is completely free! If you’re looking for free things to do in Las Vegas, this should definitely be near the top of your list.
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My Vegas travel tip: Visit after sunset for an especially magical experience, and check the current show schedule before heading over. Fountain performances can be affected by weather and special events.
3. Explore the Cosmopolitan Hotel
One of the things I love most about Las Vegas is that exploring the hotels can be an activity all on its own. Seriously, some of these resorts are practically little cities! During our trip, we visited The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, one of the most recognizable luxury hotels on the Strip. Known for its stylish interiors, restaurants and lively atmosphere, The Cosmopolitan is a fun stop whether you’re staying there or simply exploring. I love getting dressed up and wandering through beautiful hotels, checking out the decor and finding cute places to take photos. It’s also a great option for a girls’ night or date night, especially if you’re planning to grab dinner or drinks afterward.
My Vegas travel tip: You don’t have to stay at every luxury resort to appreciate its atmosphere. Set aside an afternoon or evening to explore a few hotels along the Strip, but wear comfortable shoes because the distances can be surprisingly long!
4. See an Unforgettable Performance at Absinthe
If you’re looking for a unique Las Vegas experience, add Absinthe to your list! During our trip, we attended a performance of this popular live show, and it was definitely one of our more memorable evenings. Absinthe is known for combining impressive acrobatics, circus-style performances and outrageous adult comedy. It’s not your typical theatre experience, and that’s exactly what makes it such a popular Vegas attraction. If you love live entertainment and don’t mind some cheeky, adults-only humour, this is one show worth researching before your trip. Las Vegas is famous for its entertainment, and booking at least one live performance is a great way to make your vacation feel extra special.
My Vegas travel tip: Check current performance dates, ticket prices, age restrictions and seating options before booking. Popular shows can sell out, especially during busy travel periods.
5. Walk the Las Vegas Strip and Explore the Casinos
Sometimes the most fun part of Vegas is simply walking around and taking everything in. Between the bright lights, beautiful hotels, elaborate casino interiors and endless people-watching opportunities, there’s always something happening! During our trip, we spent time exploring the famous Las Vegas Strip and checking out different resorts and casinos. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, many of the hotels are worth visiting for their architecture, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. From the grandeur of Caesars Palace to the elegance of the Bellagio, each resort has its own personality. I especially love visiting at night when the Strip comes alive with colourful lights and a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to take photos, explore with your girlfriends and soak up the Vegas energy.
My Vegas travel tip: Plan your sightseeing by hotel location so you’re not constantly walking back and forth across the Strip. Bring comfortable shoes, stay hydrated and use pedestrian bridges and designated crossings.
6. Take a Day Trip to Red Rock Canyon
Want to know one of my favourite things we did during our Vegas getaway? We escaped the Strip and explored Red Rock Canyon! If you’re looking for something different from the bright lights and busy casinos, this beautiful desert destination is absolutely worth considering. Located west of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is known for its dramatic red sandstone formations, scenic drives and hiking trails. The scenery is seriously breathtaking, and it feels like an entirely different world from the excitement of the Strip. We spent time exploring the area and taking in the incredible desert views. Whether you’re into photography, nature or simply want a little fresh air, it’s a beautiful addition to your Las Vegas itinerary. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to appreciate the landscape, either. There are scenic viewpoints and trails with varying levels of difficulty.
My Vegas travel tip: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. Desert temperatures can be extreme, especially during summer. Check current entry fees, timed-entry reservation requirements and weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas: My Experience at ARIA
Choosing the right hotel can make such a difference when you’re planning a Vegas getaway. During my trip, we booked a stay at the ARIA Hotel & Casino, located on the Las Vegas Strip. I loved having a convenient home base for exploring the city, enjoying delicious restaurants and experiencing the nightlife. When choosing where to stay in Vegas, I recommend thinking about which attractions you want to visit most. Staying centrally on the Strip can make sightseeing more convenient, while hotels farther away may offer different pricing or a quieter atmosphere. Remember to compare the total cost of your stay, including resort fees, taxes and parking charges where applicable. A hotel that looks affordable at first glance may cost considerably more once additional fees are included.
How to Plan a Fun Las Vegas Girls’ Trip
If you’re planning a girls’ weekend in Vegas, my biggest recommendation is to create a loose itinerary without scheduling every single minute. There’s so much to do that it can be tempting to cram everything into one trip, but you’ll have a better time if you leave room for spontaneous adventures. Choose a few must-do activities, make reservations for special dinners and shows, and plan some downtime between outings. For a first visit, I love the idea of spending one day exploring the Strip, another enjoying restaurants and entertainment, and a third discovering attractions outside the city. And don’t forget to pack outfits for different occasions! Comfortable daytime clothes, supportive walking shoes and a few cute evening looks will cover most activities. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about travel planning, check out my tips for traveling with anxiety for practical ways to make trips feel more manageable.
Free and Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Las Vegas
Vegas has a reputation for being expensive, but you don’t need an unlimited budget to enjoy yourself! Some of the best experiences involve exploring the city rather than purchasing expensive tickets. Watching the Bellagio Fountains, walking along the Strip, taking photos of the famous hotels and browsing resort attractions can all be fun ways to spend an afternoon without paying admission. Of course, dining, shopping, transportation and entertainment can add up quickly, so it’s worth deciding which experiences matter most to you before arriving. If you’re visiting with your partner and looking for more inexpensive activities, my post on affordable date ideas under $25 has inspiration you can adapt to your getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Las Vegas
What are the best things to do in Las Vegas for first-time visitors?
Some popular experiences include exploring the Las Vegas Strip, watching the Bellagio Fountains, visiting famous resorts, trying popular restaurants, attending a live show and taking a day trip to Red Rock Canyon.
Is Las Vegas good for a girls’ trip?
Absolutely! Las Vegas offers a mix of restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing and nightlife, making it a fun destination for a girls’ weekend. You can tailor your itinerary to your group’s interests and budget.
What can you do in Las Vegas without gambling?
There are plenty of options! Enjoy live performances, explore luxury hotels, visit restaurants, watch the Bellagio Fountains, go shopping or spend time outdoors at Red Rock Canyon.
Are there free things to do on the Las Vegas Strip?
Yes! Watching the Bellagio Fountains and exploring public areas of the Strip are two popular free activities. Some resort attractions and displays may also be free, although offerings can change.
Is Red Rock Canyon worth visiting from Las Vegas?
If you enjoy nature, photography or scenic landscapes, Red Rock Canyon can be a wonderful addition to your itinerary. It offers a completely different atmosphere from the Strip and is particularly beautiful for a scenic drive or hike.
How many days should you spend in Las Vegas?
A three- or four-day trip can give you time to explore major attractions, enjoy restaurants and see a show. If you’d also like to visit nearby natural attractions or enjoy a slower pace, consider staying longer.
