Ready to make the most of your Las Vegas getaway? From iconic attractions to unexpected surprises, this trip-planning guide is filled with activities to make it an unforgettable adventure. The Entertainment Capital of the World never stops evolving — so whether it’s your first visit or your 10th, there’s always something new to explore.
From Iconic Headliners to One-of-a-Kind Festivals
Sphere continues its run of jaw-dropping live performances while also drawing crowds with its popular immersive film experience, The Wizard of Oz, which debuted in 2025 and has sold 1.5 million tickets in total so far, remains a must-see for 2026 visitors looking for something truly Vegas.
On the live music front, this year’s lineup is stacked: No Doubt brings a major limited engagement running May 6–June 13. Global regional Mexican star Carín León makes history as the venue’s first Latino headliner, with a seven-night run in September.
Elsewhere on the Strip, legendary residencies are in full force. Through March, Jennifer Lopez plays her hits and shares her life on stage at Jennifer Lopez: Up All Night Live at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, while Kelly Clarkson brings her powerhouse vocals to the same stage July 17–Aug. 15.
And that’s just the beginning. This year is defined by a packed slate of superstar stays and limited engagements from names like Dolly Parton, Backstreet Boys and Zayn.
High-energy festival weekends are also taking over the Strip and beyond. Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas returns May 15–17 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, transforming the desert into an immersive nightlife universe of superstar DJs, elaborate stages and carnival rides. Music fans can also plan around the iHeartRadio Music Festival, an annual, multi-genre event staged at T-Mobile Arena each fall.
Grab your cat-eye sunglasses or leather jacket, because Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend returns April 9–12, blending vintage fashion, live music, classic cars and old-school Vegas glamour into one incredible weekend.
From The Big Game Watch Parties to Front-Row Seats
Throughout 2026, the destination transforms into the sports capital with stadium-scale spectacles, packed with viewing marathons and fan atmospheres you can feel everywhere, from the Strip to Fremont Street. At the end of the football season, sportsbooks and bars host massive Big Game watch parties, and each March, they turn into 24/7 college basketball hubs.
Allegiant Stadium brings the action with Las Vegas Raiders home games, Strip-side venues and beyond, followed by WrestleMania 42 in April.
Race fans get two major NASCAR weekends at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. First, Pennzoil 400 on March 15, followed by South Point 400 in October. Then, FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN LAS VEGAS GRAND PRIX 2026 returns to the Las Vegas Strip Circuit, running Nov.19–21.
For an iconic sports experience, the 2026 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo runs Dec. 3–12 at Thomas & Mack Center.
From Celebrity Chef Kitchens to Late-Night Bites
With so many iconic spots and hidden gems, you’ll have no trouble finding where to eat in Las Vegas and enjoying every bite along the way. Indulge in the irresistible French charm and authentic flavors from award-winning spot LPM Restaurant & Bar at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, open for dinner and cocktail hour Wednesday through Sunday, as well as weekend brunch.
If you’re looking to taste flavors from south of the border, then try Mijo Modern Mexican Restaurant with catadores (or tequila experts) on staff to guide your drink selection before moving onto its diverse menu of coastal Mexican cuisine, only at Durango Casino & Resort.
For flavors just as captivating, visit “Top Chef” winner Jeremy Ford’s Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed at Resorts World Las Vegas. Expect a seasonal, produce-driven menu served in a bright, artful setting with happy hour in the bar and lounge, followed by evening service in the main dining room and patio.
Chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas reinvents the traditional American steakhouse with a contemporary twist, serving elevated classics infused with international flavors. Savor a salt-baked and hay-smoked, dry-aged tomahawk steak or a pastrami-spiced wagyu short rib. The experience is rounded out by a standout beverage program that highlights an impressive array of wines and spirits to complement the menu.
For a bold twist to luxury dining, Caspian's at Caesars Palace offers an upscale speakeasy experience featuring the finest caviar and fresh seafood. Tucked away in an intimate setting, its refined menu includes an innovative cocktail program — all set to the electrifying backdrop of live music. Or savor a steak grilled to perfection at COTE inside The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, a celebratory spot that blends the elegance of a classic American chophouse with the vibrant energy of a Korean barbecue. Complement your meal with a glass from its award-winning wine list.
Rolling deep with a big crew? Canteen Food Hall at Rio Las Vegas might be exactly what your group is looking for! With a selection of food from different culinary hot spots, from Tokyo to New York and Philadelphia, this modern food hall is sure to delight everyone’s taste buds! Dig into a Sonoran-style burrito and guacamole at Southland Burrito Co. and wash it down with a root beer float on tap from Attaboy Burger.
From Unique Museums to Futuristic Experiences
Activities in Las Vegas cater to every kind of traveler, offering a mix of thrill, creativity and unexpected surprises at every turn.
Right now, AREA15 is one of the best places to experience that energy in full. The latest must-do? Interstellar Arc, a 26th-century deep-space mission that drops you into a cinematic, choose-your-own-adventure journey across the cosmos. Step aboard the custom-built, 20,000-square-foot spaceport and prepare for an immersive ride that feels part attraction, part living story.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. AREA15’s continued expansion keeps adding even more reasons to stay awhile. Imagine otherworldly art installations, music-driven experiences, and new food-and-drink concepts throughout the whole complex. It’s a one-stop spot the whole crew will enjoy.
Round up your team for Great Big Game Show Las Vegas inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, a 60-minute interactive adventure that blends live theater with a rotating mix of trivia, strategy and high-energy physical challenges, hosted by an emcee in a studio-style setting. Every round is a new mini game, keeping the excitement fresh with pop culture questions, puzzles and speed tests.
The newly opened The FRIENDS Experience: The One in Vegas is a must-see for fans of the iconic TV show. This interactive attraction brings favorite moments to life with re-created sets like Monica’s apartment, as well as Ross and Rachel’s hilariously unexpected Vegas wedding. Dance by the legendary fountain, explore the show’s history and relive classic scenes through fun activations. Afterward, check out the retail store for exclusive merchandise or grab a themed snack.
Get an incredible history lesson with a visit to The Atomic Museum, where you can uncover the fascinating era of the Atomic Age. Featuring rotating exhibits and artifacts, the museum provides a captivating look at the technology developed during this pivotal time, including insights inspired by the 2023 hit film, Oppenheimer.
Another must-see venue is The Punk Rock Museum, positioning itself as the world’s most comprehensive attraction dedicated to “rock ’n’ roll’s rebellious offspring.” This institution in Downtown Las Vegas offers hours of exploration. Check out the unique memorabilia and artifacts, stop by the bar for a drink or head to “The Shop” for an impromptu tattoo!
While you’re downtown, venture over to Fremont East Entertainment District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with popular bars, restaurants, music venues and fantastic street art. Drop by In The Game, a bold, new arcade inside the historic El Portal Theatre featuring group-challenge games, top-tier arcade prizes, and food and drinks late into the night.
From New Rooms & Pools to New Year’s Eve
If you’re planning a Las Vegas trip this year, there’s even more to look forward to beyond shows and major events. MGM Grand Hotel and Casino’s sleek room upgrades mean many guest rooms will be updated with a modern look and improved in-room tech. Much anticipated, The Vanderpump Hotel is expected to open in spring 2026.
Pool season is around the corner, as most Strip resorts reopen pools by March, kicking off sunny days of cabana lounging and pool-party energy that typically runs through October. Flamingo’s iconic GO Pool has reopened after a major makeover, adding even more reasons to build in daytime fun.
Major holiday weekends are peak time for the pool scene, with Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend especially known for bringing headline DJs, packed dayclubs and full-scale pool parties. Expect iconic venues like Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, TAO Beach Dayclub at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, and LIV Beach at Fontainebleau Las Vegas to fill the party calendar with big names and unforgettable experiences.
Las Vegas rings in another chapter with its legendary New Year’s Eve celebration, America’s Party, featuring destination-wide energy and rooftop fireworks launched from multiple resort properties.
Now that you have the ultimate guide to Las Vegas trip planning, what are you waiting for? It’s time to book that resort and find deals for your next stay!