It’s hard to resist going all out in Sin City. It’s a place known for hedonism and a plethora of entertaining activities. However, it doesn’t always have to be a spending spree. While there won’t be any luxury spas or high-end sushi restaurants on the money-saving menu, there are plenty of fun and free things to do in Las Vegas.
1. Soak up some culture at the city’s free museums
There are fantastic exhibitions to see in Sin City. But if you’re hoping to admire artworks or vintage machines on a budget, there are also plenty of free museums. The Arts Factory near Downtown Las Vegas is free of charge on the first Friday of every month. Admission is free at the Pinball Hall of Fame where you can discover the world’s largest pinball collection.
2. Get some fresh air
Sometimes Las Vegas can be overwhelming and one the best things to do for free is to wander through some of its beautiful parks and gardens . Rummage through your fridge and see if you can prepare a picnic to upgrade the plan. Call a friend to join you or enjoy a peaceful stroll alone. And from Sunset Park to The Clark County Wetlands, there is an abundance of places to choose from.
3. Free displays at the Bellagio
No matter which season you find yourself in — summer, fall, winter or spring — The Bellagio Conservatory is always waiting with an enchanting theme. The 14,000-square-foot space is an oasis of imagination and creativity. Open your mind at The Bellagio’s not so secret gem 24 hours a day, and it’s free!
đź“Ť Bellagio Hotel & Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas
4. Discover some Las Vegas street art
Not only is the historic Arts District known for its 18 blocks of amazing bars, restaurants, theaters, and galleries, but it is also known for its street art. Artists such as Doze Green and Alexis Diaz have made their mark on the area’s canvas. You’ll find a free gallery of murals and graffiti in this vibrant part of Las Vegas.
5. Head to Henderson’s Ethel M Chocolate Garden
Admittedly you might have to cover the gas expense for the trip to Ethel M Chocolate Garden in Henderson or the bus fare, but the Botanical Cactus Garden and tour are free. The 3-acre garden is home to over 300 plant species and with spectacular events, including the annual Lights of Love display and Holiday Cactus Garden, the journey to Henderson is worth it.
đź“Ť 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson
6. Immerse yourself in Fremont Street Experience
Located in Downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street Experience is an attraction covering 5 blocks of the city. You can catch one of the free, nightly Viva Vision light shows, discover antiques, rub Buddha’s belly, and more. Although you might think it would be difficult to be surrounded by so much activity and not spend a dime, the fact is there is a lot to see and do for free, and just simply absorbing it with your eyes can be part of the fun.
đź“Ť E Fremont St, Las Vegas
7. Behold Seven Magic Mountains south of Las Vegas
Ugo Rondinone’s installation is a poetic tribute blending the desert and humanity. If you feel like getting inspired by the towering Seven Magic Mountains, head a few miles south of the city. Take a fun picture with the 35 ft. high boulder totems and be captivated by the stark color contrast.
đź“Ť S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas
8. Watch the Fountains of Bellagio
A free plan that never fails to entertain, the Fountains of Bellagio is a musical fountain show at the Bellagio resort. Sit down and watch sprays of water reach up to 460 feet above the massive display. And even if you’ve already seen them, each water performance is different and equally romantic.
đź“Ť 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas
9. Do some Las Vegas window shopping
Alright, this can be a tricky one. However, there is something freeing in knowing you don’t have to spend anything and can just see what’s on offer. Go to the offbeat Container Park for some retail therapy at a distance, browse vintage shops, check out som vinyl shops, bookshops, and breathe in the luxury at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian.
10. Walk the Rubber Ducky Trail
Tie the laces on your hiking boots and tackle an easy 1.8-mile trail with a twist. As you walk along the popular the Cottonwood Valley route a smile should be brought to your face thanks to the flood of rubber ducks you’ll encounter. Although the hiking trail’s official name is Old Spanish Trail, the whimsical presence of bright-colored ducks has earned it the endearing nickname.
đź“Ť Parking at the Late Night Trailhead off of SR 160 in the direction of Pahrump