So, What Happens in Vegas STAYS in Vegas Right?
Not really, BUT there are a few well-kept secrets Las Vegans like to keep to themselves. One of the BEST kept Las Vegas Secrets is that not only do we have the largest amount of hotel rooms per capita, but Las Vegas locals have also been able to thrive in this tourist city (and have a whole lot of fun too) by cashing in on free, yes FREE shows, events and exhibits on the Las Vegas strip. If you are planning on a fun trip to Las Vegas with your pals, or are moving here; here is a list of a few of the top 10 free things to do in Las Vegas.
1. Bellagio Light and Water Fountain Show
If you happen to be sitting out on the patio of one of Las Vegas’s finest restaurants you shouldn’t be surprised to believe yourself to be in the heart of Lake Como in Italy. The city of lights prides itself on its many manmade lakes sitting on the strip; the one at the Bellagio will surely make you forget that you are indeed standing in the middle of the hot dry Mohave Dessert. A display of lights, great sound, and spouting jets of water fly up into the heavens, casting a bouquet of delight in the air. Although exact times are not available, you will be sure to catch the show in the evenings, starting in the afternoon. Best viewing from the Paris across the street, Mon Amie Gabi offers terrace seating that gives you front-row seats to the show, or Circo restaurant at the Bellagio.
When:
Monday to Friday 3:00 p.m. to midnight
Saturday to Sunday 12:00 p.m. to midnight
Every 30 minutes until 7:00 p.m., Every 15 minutes from 7 p.m. to midnight
Shows are subject to cancellation due to high winds.
2. Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino
Past the hotel entrance and casino, you will find an assortment of birds and other animals living on an island enclosed by streams and waterfalls. Over 300 birds are included including, of course, a flock of brilliant pink flamingos. You’ll also be able to see penguins, swans, and ducks. Living in the stream are koi fish and swimming turtles.
When:
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. Conservatory and Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino
Inside the Bellagio, you will find an indoor garden with a remarkable floral display. The 50-foot high glass roof provides a striking place for great photo opportunities. The displays are changed each season and for major holidays. The setting is a wonderful, peaceful break from the bright lights of the strip and the bustle of the casino. The garden has over 13,500 square feet and 1,200 bins of exotic plants.
When:
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
4. The Volcano at the Mirage Hotel and Casino
At the Mirage, you will find an erupting man-made volcano every night right on the Las Vegas strip. Dramatic flames and smoke shoot from the very top of this 54-foot volcano, while molten lava streams down its sides. You can actually feel the heat from the flames on your face as you stand watching from the sidewalk. This volcano was actually the first free attraction on the Vegas Strip, initially opened in 1989. Although it has stood in place for nearly twenty-five years it never fails to awe onlookers every night.
When:
Every 15 minutes from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
5. Fremont Street Experience
A mega-million dollar canopy and light show enclose the original Downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street; the FREE Show is really a sight to behold. It presently starts at 8 pm with shows starting every hour on the hour finishing at midnight. The show is approximately 12 minutes long. Check with your hotel to confirm timings are current.
When:
Nightly at dusk
6. Sirens of TI at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino
The Treasure Island Hotel and Casino describes its Sirens of TI show as a “modern musical-meets-action-movie spectacular”. The show itself is about 15 minutes long, it features a group of scantily clad women fighting a band of pirates. The shows feature music, dancing, fencing, acrobatics, explosions, and even a full-size ship sinking. Replacing what used to be the Treasure Islands Pirates Battle; the Sirens of TI, it was decided, would give a sexier image to the hotel and casino.
When:
Every night at 7:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 10:00 p.m., and 11:30 p.m.
7. Rock and Roll Memorabilia at The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has collectibles from all of your favorite rock and roll stars. They exhibit many displays featuring lots for rock and roll fans from Beatles collectibles to Madonna’s underwear, motorcycles from the band Guns N Roses, Matt Sorum and Motley Crue’s Nikki Six, autographed guitars, drum sets from many bands, and leather jackets from the Ramones as well as Aerosmith.
When:
24 hours and day, seven days a week
8. Masquerade Village Show in the Sky at the Rio Hotel and Casino
This Carnival-themed show features fantastic floats that ride on tracks above the casino floor. You will find energetic dancers in exotic masks and costumes throwing beads into the crowd. The show also includes clowns and acrobats to help boost energy. There is a main stage on the casino floor with a live band providing the music for the show. Do keep in mind, however, that from Monday to Wednesday there is no Show in the Sky, instead a Latin band performing on the Masquerade Village Stage.
When:
Hourly from 7 pm to Midnight, Thursday – Sunday
9. Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino
If you would like to see lions playing, sleeping, lounging, and interacting, then you will absolutely love the Lion Exhibit at the MGM Grand. This 5,000-square-foot glass-enclosed simulated jungle habitat has everything the lions need, including a waterfall. Although the lions are not trained to perform tricks, they do like playing with bowling balls thrown to them; they are directed by voice and hand commands from the handlers (no use of cruel whips).
When:
Daily 11 a.m to 10 p.m.
10. Circus Acts at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino
Las Vegas is home to the world’s largest permanent circus. One of the oldest and most loved free shows in Las Vegas can be found at the big top in the Midway at Circus Circus, this show features aerialists, jugglers, magicians, trapeze artists, and clowns. Each show lasts about 10 minutes with about an hour of intermission in between shows. Since there are a limited number of seats available remember to make your way over to the seating area early; people typically start filling them about 15 minutes before the show (or more), don’t worry if you can’t get a seat, there is a lot of standing room around.
When:
Daily 11 a.m. to midnight, every half hour.
