Never been to Las Vegas? There’s so much to take in during your maiden voyage to the Entertainment Capital of the World, from iconic landmarks like the Fountains of Bellagio and Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, to exciting experiences such as a gondola ride through the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas or watching some thrilling athletic action at Allegiant Stadium.

But that’s just the beginning. Here’s our list of must-do Las Vegas activities for every first-time guest.

First up: People watching! With the cross-section of visitors and celebrities who come to Las Vegas, this is primetime entertainment. There are several terrific vantage points on the Strip, including Señor Frog’s and Gilley’s Saloon, Dance Hall & BBQ at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. Simply take a seat, order some refreshments and enjoy the view!

 

Cruising the Strip is required for any first-timer. There’s so much to experience, from the dramatic eruption of The Volcano at The Mirage to the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo Las Vegas. Don’t forget to check out the fabulous and eclectic art collection at Resorts World Las Vegas, as well as the enchanting visual spectacle at the Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas. And a selfie with the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is both essential and absolutely Instagram-worthy — put that on the list, too!

 

Have a little fun while exploring, too. Start the party at Rockhouse at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, where DJs and daiquiris meet billiards and beers. Looking for something more wild? Let out a few screams riding the roller coaster at New York-New York! Continue on and enjoy scenic views of the American West during FlyOver Las Vegas’ immersive flight ride experience, or hop on the High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ Promenade.

Experiencing some casino curiosity? The destination is dotted with some of the most state-of-the-art casinos in the world, many filled with the latest gaming innovations — right next to the classic table games, of course. If you’re new to a casino floor, many hotels offer free lessons for novices — Circus Circus and The Venetian Resort Las Vegas among them.

 

As the Entertainment Capital of the World, there is no shortage of fabulous productions in Las Vegas. There are hot tickets available every night of the week, so seeing a Vegas show should be on your itinerary! There’s Mystère by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, Tournament of Kings at Excalibur, and Absinthe at Caesars Palace Las Vegas.

 

Or catch a show from one of today’s superstar recording artists. In addition to Las Vegas’ star-studded lineup of residencies, top touring acts regularly play the destination at venues like The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and Allegiant Stadium. And don’t forget about the chart-topping DJs playing Las Vegas’ many world-class nightclubs! Catch a superstar set—at Zouk Nightclub at Resorts World Las Vegas, XS Nightclub at Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, or Tao Nightclub at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, among others—and dance the night away!

Las Vegas is also home to the world’s first experiential art and entertainment complex, AREA15. The expansive space, just a quick drive from the Strip, features massive art installations and virtual reality experiences alongside an eclectic roster of restaurants, bars, and lounges. Area 15 is also home to Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart and regularly hosts DJs and musical performances.

Don’t forget to check out the assortment of restaurants and bars that make up the Fremont East Entertainment District. While you’re there, stop by the Downtown Container Park, made entirely of shipping containers; and be sure to drop by the historic El Cortez and the all-new Circa Resort & Casino.

 

If you’re a first-time foodie, a buffet should be on your Las Vegas must-do list. Yes, you can also enjoy the culinary creations of any number of celebrity chefs, but as a first-timer, a buffet is in order.

 

Celebrated for its expansive selection of gourmet offerings, the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace will leave everyone at the table wanting more. Diners can also experience playful twists on classic buffet items at Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, or indulge in some classic favorites at Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station Casino Brewery & Hotel.

Looking for adventure? We’ve got you covered! Start with the SkyJump at the The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. At 108 stories, it’s the longest, controlled free fall of its kind. If you want even more thrills, take a ride on downtown’s SlotZilla and zip line right over the crowds on Fremont Street. There are more than enough options to get your adrenaline fix at, in Las Vegas!

With so much to do for Vegas first-timers, it’s a good idea to have a plan for what you want to do, see, taste, sip and experience. Explore more of what the destination has to offer by visiting our Things to Do page.