Girls Trips USA

10 Things do to in Las Vegas…if you Don’t Like to Gamble

Updated on

Some people here the words ‘Las Vegas’ and they immediately get excited, dreaming about time at the slot machines and winning it big at blackjack. I’m not one of those people. I have nothing against gambling, but it’s not my preferred type of entertainment. So, when friends mention a trip to Vegas, I need to really give it some thought. The only thing more boring than gambling to me is watching other people gamble, so if friends are going to be doing that, I need to find other ways to make the most of a trip.

Turns out lady luck is on my side. What many people don’t realize is that Las Vegas has so much more to offer than the dream of striking it rich. Granted, I had plenty of time to learn this as I lived there for about ten years. Below are some of my favorite things to do when in town, whether on the strip or off. If you’re like me and want a wider variety of entertainment in Vegas, keep on reading!

Pool by Day, Out on the Town by Night

Vegas packing is a whole thing. My free custom packing checklist keeps it to one bag, no matter how many outfit changes you need. 

10. SEE A SHOW

Vegas has so many great ongoing shows at any given time. The production value, the creativity, and the performers are typically top notch. Whether you catch one of the many Cirque de Soleil shows, head to the Smith Center for Performing Arts, see what exhibits are making their way through town, or find a comedian performing while you’re there, you’re guaranteed an entertaining evening. It makes the trip even more special when it’s a show you can’t find anywhere else.

9. SOAK IN SOME LAS VEGAS CULTURE

I know what you’re thinking – Culture? In Las Vegas? Yep, it’s there! It may look a little different than other places, but Vegas roots do run deep. Hit up the Mob Museum to see how Vegas was built and how it’s evolved. At night, a visit to the Neon Museum is a very cool way to see all the old neon signs that lit up the town back in the day, along with hearing interesting tidbits of history. They are fun for the whole family and give you a different perspective on the other city that never sleeps.  

8. PAMPER YOURSELF AT THE SPA

While your SO or friends are out on the gaming floor, head over to your hotel’s spa for a day of pampering. Of course you can get a massage, facial, or body treatment. But you can also find saunas, jacuzzies, lounge areas, and the like to make this a full day of relaxed bliss.

7. BE A FOODIE FOR A WEEKEND

Another great aspect of Las Vegas is all the great restaurants. You have famous chefs from all over the world that want a restaurant (or more) in Vegas because of the sheer exposure of people coming through town. They also have high expectations, so these restaurants are some of the best in the world. Whether it’s food network stars like Bobby Flay and Giada di Laurentiis, or world-renowned chefs like Morimoto and Joel Robuchon, you will be in foodie heaven in Las Vegas. You’ll definitely need more than four days to work your way through all the delicious delights, but that will give you a good taste, along with a reason to come back.

6. TAP INTO YOUR LOVE OF MUSIC

With all of the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas comes another perk – musicians are constantly coming through town. Short-term residencies are all the rage, because they can do bigger, more impactful set productions than when on a regular tour, and it’s easier on the performer because they get to stay in one place for a bit. You can also catch people coming through on their normal tours, doing a one-night only performance, or performing at a festival. If you love music, look to see who’s playing when you’re in town. You won’t be disappointed.

5. LOUNGE BY THE POOL

After a night of singing and dancing to your favorite musician, there’s nothing like a lounge day by the pool. Vegas can heat up, but they make sure there are misters around the pools, and places to lounge in the water to keep yourself refreshed. If you want to splurge, go in on a cabana and feel like a VIP for the day. Be sure to see which pools fit your style – some will have Day Clubs bumping, while others will be more chill and relaxed. Find the one that’s right for you and you’ll have a fantastic day.

4. ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM AT A SPORTING EVENT

It used to be that the only sports you saw in Las Vegas was at the sports book. But my how times have changed. Hockey! Football! Baseball soon! That, on top of the occasional Nascar and Formula 1 races. Sporting events are a great way to see your favorite sport, get a feel for the home team’s energy, and scope out stadiums. I have a friend who checks out the stadium everywhere they go, and now, they can do that in Las Vegas too! And, because it’s Vegas, you’ll get treated to bumped-up energy and production throughout the event, including the halftime show!

3. BECOME ONE WITH NATURE

If you’ve had enough of the lights and people, and want a little escape, Vegas still has you covered. When I tell people some of my favorite hikes were in Vegas,

or that I learned to paddleboard there, they think I’m joking. I’m not! Red Rock canyon is beautiful to drive through, and even better if you get out and take one of the hikes. There are different trails for different levels, and wherever you go it’s stunning. If you want to drive a little further, Valley of Fire has more of that red rock appeal, and Mt Charleston has pine trees and will be about 20 degrees cooler than Vegas in the summer, with snow in the winter. More hiking, a few waterfalls, and a little mountain restaurant to enjoy the views will make it a fun trip. And if you’re looking for water in the desert, head to Lake Las Vegas or Lake Mead. Rent a boat, a paddleboard or a jet ski and make the most of your time outside.

2. SHOP TIL YOU DROP

Whether you like to window shop or seal the deal with an actual purchase, Vegas has plenty of options for you. If you want high-end, you’ll find just about every designer with one (or more) shops in town. Mid-range? Places Fashion Show mall, Planet Hollywood and Town Square have a lot of the solid stores you know and love. And if you want Vegas chachkas, you can’t walk a block without goods being offered on the street, whether on the strip or downtown on Fremont Street.

1. SEE THE SIGHTS

For a first timer to Vegas, the best thing you can do is just soak it all in. From the fountains at

Bellagio, the gondolas at Venetian, or the light show on Fremont Street, Vegas is a feast for the eyes. Even the décor at each casino is really something unique. Bellagio is full on swank,

with their amazing fresh gardens that change seasonally. Wynn has understated elegance, Cosmopolitan is a swanky younger sister, and the list goes on and on. Meander through the casinos, check out the vibe and the décor, and get some steps in while you’re at it. And when you’ve finally hit sensory overload, rest assured a pool and spa will be nearby.

Ready for Vegas but Don’t Want to Plan?

I lived in Vegas for ten years and am a professional travel advisor. Having me plan your vacation is a sure bet.

Let’s go to Vegas, baby

RELATED POSTS

HELPFUL LINKS

You may also like...