Top 10 Free Attractions
This is a list that is in no particular order, but I feel like these are 10 attractions that every Vegas newbie should see. Even if you aren’t a Vegas first timer, you should still see these attractions. It’s just a good starting place for first timers. I’ve included links more detailed information. I’ve also included some of my own personal pictures.
1. Bellagio Fountains
Although I said this list is in no particular order, this deserves the number one spot. Every Las Vegas visitor should visit the Bellagio Fountains at least once. Whether it is during the day or at night, it is a spectacular sight. The dancing fountains will be a part of your Vegas experience that you will never forget. I’ve seen the fountains probably 100 times and I never get tired of them.
2. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
Ahhhh the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. This is the sign that marks the beginning of the famous Las Vegas Strip. It is also a great place to take pictures. The location of the sign is south of Mandalay Bay. The exact address is 5100 Las Vegas Blvd S. There is now a parking area so you can park, get out, take your pictures and then continue your vacation. Or you could do what I did and take a cab and have it wait for you.
3. Mirage Volcano
The volcano has been revamped and is better than ever! The music is exhilarating and the sights are exciting. You will not be bored by this erupting volcano. It certainly keeps you on your toes.
4. The Sirens of TI
Ok, this is not my favorite attraction in Las Vegas but, I do feel like it deserves a place on the list. For the record, I liked the old show better. It has now been recreated with a sexier vibe. I think it is more silly than sexy. It is no longer the kid friendly show it used to be, but it’s not exactly raunchy either. Anyway, it’s worth seeing once just so you can say you saw it. It’s located in the water outside Treasure Island (now known as TI).
5. Show in the Sky
This is a masquerade show that takes place at the Rio, off the strip. This is another attraction that has been redone. I have to be honest, I have not seen it since it has been redone. I saw this show in 1998 and it is definitely not the same show. This is another example of a show that has been made sexier. I cannot say whether it was a good decision or not since I’ve only seen the original. I still think it’s worth putting on my list of attractions. Keep in mind you can pay a small price to actually be a part of the show.
6. The Fall of Atlantis
This is a show of moving statues and is located in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. It’s very exciting, but mostly for children. Still, it’s worth seeing. I don’t usually make a point of going out of my way to see it anymore but I definitely stop to watch if I’m passing by. Keep in mind it is located at the far end of the shopping center, directly outside of the Cheesecake Factory. There is also a Fat Tuesday across from the attraction, which serves some great alcohol filled slushy drinks.
7. The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand
What a beautiful experience this is! The lions are majestic and powerful and you can’t take your eyes off of them. Thank goodness they are behind huge glass walls because they are quite large and intimidating, yet gorgeous. The lions also live a better life than most people. They live on an 8.5 acre ranch 12 miles from the MGM Grand. Their schedules are rotated so the lions are not overworked. Animals are beautiful creatures and you should take advantage of seeing these beautiful animals in an uncommon setting.
The Lion Habitat at MGM Grand
8. Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
This is one of the most spectacular gardens you will ever see. It changes with the seasons and each season is more breath taking than the last. It is located in a far corner of the Bellagio, but luckily there is a great patisserie nearby. This is an absolute must for any Vegas visitor.
9. Wildlife Habitat
The Wildlife Habitat in the pool area of the Flamingo is not to be missed. I saw it for the first time 13 years ago and saw it again about a year ago. It was even better than I had remembered. The animals are so stunning and so is the lush landscape. There is even a special “hidden” monument to Bugsy Siegel. See if you can find it!
10. Streetmosphere in St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square at the Venetian is an attraction in itself. You feel like you are in Venice. The atmosphere is just wonderful. There are several restaurants and places to just sit and people watch but at certain times of the day you can catch the street performers. They sing, they juggle, they just plain entertain and they are all dressed in character. You can’t help but smile when you see the Streetmosphere performers. Keep in mind that St. Mark’s Square is located in the Grand Canal Shoppes part of the Venetian hotel.
Bonus
The Fremont Street Experience
I am going to be honest with all of you. In the 13 years that I have been going to Las Vegas, I have never been to Fremont Street. Tha's why I did not include this in my Top 10 list. From what I have heard, the Fremont Street Experience is not to be missed. Downtown Las Vegas, in general, is very different from The Strip, so it definitely a worth while trip.
Like most of Las Vegas, Fremont St is more visually pleasing in the evening time. During the day I must admit we were not too impressed, it was just like another shopping mall, but come night time then it takes on a different persona.
ReplyDeleteThe roof show is just amazing, and when we were there there were bands and street artists that really made the place come alive. We travelled down on the Deuce, which is the cheapest but not always the most comfortable way to get there.
Well worth an evening of your time to take in the atmosphere, you may even see Elvis around the place. :)