Las Vegas is an all-year-round destination offering more than glitz and glamor. While traditional travel guides spotlight the Strip's iconic attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and Sphere concerts, there's a world of hidden gems in Las Vegas waiting to be discovered.
From tucked-away speakeasies to serene outdoor escapes, this vibrant city offers countless surprises for those who venture beyond the well-trodden paths. Read on to uncover the best of Las Vegas off the beaten track.
Immerse in Nature
Planning a weekend in Vegas but craving some outdoor adventure? Look no further! Just outside the city, you'll find stunning natural landscapes perfect for exploring. Here are some top outdoor Vegas hidden gems to add to your itinerary.
1. Hike in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Address: 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89161
Price: Based on transportation:
- Vehicle: $20
- Motorcycle: $10
- Bicycle: $8
- Pedestrian: $5
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a stunning escape from the Strip's neon lights. As one of the best non-touristy things to do in Vegas, the park's palette of reds, browns, oranges and tans creates a breathtaking contrast to the city's glitz. Hike through its rugged landscape or simply drive the 13-mile loop road and stop to snap awesome photos from an overlook.
2. Explore the Springs Preserve
Address: 333 S Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107
Price: $5 to $20 per person
Gambling isn’t the first thing that attracts people to Las Vegas. In a place as dry as the Mojave Desert, water was the area’s first jackpot. And the Las Vegas Springs was where Native Americans, Spanish merchants and Mormon settlers came for the payout.
Today, the Springs Preserve protects these original springs and offers a glimpse into the area’s history. This oasis includes nature trails, botanical gardens, displays of area wildlife, a re-created 1905 Las Vegas streetscape, and one of the city’s fun things to do with kids: the Origen Museum.
3. See the Seven Magic Mountains
Address: S Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89054
Price: Free entrance
Seven Magic Mountains is a must-see for those seeking a unique photo op and a taste of desert art. Completed in 2016, this vibrant installation features towering, colorful boulders amidst the Mojave Desert.
Located a short 30-minute drive south of the Strip, it's the perfect escape from the city. Take a break from the neon lights, breathe in the fresh desert air and immerse yourself in this captivating open-air art piece.
4. Explore the Valley of Fire State Park
Address: Moapa Valley, NV 89040
Price: $8 to $10 per vehicle
Escape the glitz of Vegas and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Valley of Fire State Park. Located just an hour outside the city, this natural wonderland is renowned for its vibrant red rock formations, which inspired the park's name.
Discover ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock face, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the region's early inhabitants, the ancestors of today's Pueblo people. Hike through dramatic canyons, explore hidden caves or bask in the desert sun. Valley of Fire is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
5. Harvest Fresh Produce at Gilcrease Orchard
Address: 7800 N Tenaya Way, Las Vegas, NV 89131
Price: $5 per person when tickets are required
Discover a hidden oasis just a short drive from the Strip at Gilcrease Orchard. This 50-acre farm features over 6,000 apple, pear and peach trees. During the summer months, you'll also find a variety of fresh vegetables, from pumpkins to squash. Experience the joy of picking your produce at this historic farm. It's a delightful escape from the city and a perfect family outing.
Try New Flavors
Did you know Vegas has an expansive food scene? Sin City is packed with incredible bites that are perfect for indulging in during romantic getaways or fun-filled friend trips. While the Strip is brimming with options, plenty of hidden culinary gems are waiting to be discovered. Below are some top-secret eateries sure to make your trip truly unforgettable.
6. Find the Hidden Door to Ghost Donkey
Address: Boulevard Tower, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd. S Level 2, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Price: $20 to $40 per person
Nestled within one of Las Vegas' most iconic hotels, Ghost Donkey is a speakeasy perfect for a late-nightcap or a quieter prelude to a vibrant Strip evening. To find this hidden gem, venture to the second floor of the Cosmopolitan and enter the Block 16 Urban Food Hall. Look for the exit sign and a discreet door adorned with a donkey symbol at the food court's back.
Step through to discover Ghost Donkey, a lively bar offering a tantalizing blend of Mexican-inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. From towering nachos to an impressive selection of specialty drinks, there's something to satisfy every palate.
7. Find a Slice at Secret Pizza
Address: Boulevard Tower, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd. S Level 3, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Price: $10 per person
Secret Pizza is one of the best-kept secret places in Las Vegas. Just a level above Ghost Donkey, this pizza joint is the perfect spot for a late-night bite. Tucked away on the third floor of the Cosmopolitan, you'll find this hidden gem down a hallway adorned with album covers.
Enjoy delicious thin-crust pizza and soak up the vibrant atmosphere in one of Vegas' coolest restaurants. It's a must-visit for those seeking a unique dining experience away from the typical tourist spots.
8. Unwind at Frankie’s Tiki Room
Address: 1712 W Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89102-2335
Price: $10 to $25
Escape the Vegas hustle and immerse yourself in island life at Frankie’s Tiki Room. This iconic Las Vegas gem transports you to a tropical paradise with its lush decor, exotic cocktails and laid-back vibe.
Savor handcrafted tiki cocktails served in collectible mugs and indulge in delicious Polynesian-inspired bites. Whether you're seeking a lively night out with friends or a romantic escape, Frankie's Tiki Room offers the perfect escape.
9. Enjoy Some Eats at UnCommons
Address: 6880 Helen Toland St., Las Vegas, NV 89113
Price: Free entrance
Uncover a hidden culinary gem at The UnCommons. This vibrant community offers more than just food — it also has living, shopping and working spaces all in one place. Satisfy your cravings with a diverse range of cuisines, from Italian to ice cream and sandwiches.
Enjoy a casual atmosphere while indulging in delicious dishes crafted by local chefs. Whether grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, The UnCommons is a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique Las Vegas experience.
10. Dine in Style at Barry's Downtown Prime
Address: 8 Fremont St., Las Vegas, NV 89101
Price: $100 per person
Indulge in the ultimate Las Vegas experience at Circa Resort, a AAA Four Diamond hotel. Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Barry's Downtown Prime and book your stay today.
This restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with plush seating, dim lighting and stunning decor. Savor prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood and expertly crafted cocktails.
Remember to dress to impress with business or upscale casual attire. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a luxurious night out, Barry's Downtown Prime promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Uncover Local History and Culture
Beyond the dazzling lights of the Strip, Las Vegas is rich in cultural and historical treasures. The city's diverse museums offer fascinating insights into Nevada's rich heritage, where you can discover captivating stories and artifacts before diving into the city's vibrant nightlife.
11. Explore The Mob Museum
Address: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89101
Price: $35 to $55 per person
Journey back to an era of illegal alcohol, flask-sipping flappers and Tommy-gun-shooting “made men” at The Mob Museum, an attraction near downtown Fremont Street. Housed inside a restored 1933 courthouse, the museum recounts the origins of organized crime in the early 1900s, the boom years during Prohibition, the mob’s involvement in making Las Vegas a gambling destination and how law enforcement eventually brought some of the Mafia’s biggest names to justice.
While the subject matter is serious, the top-notch exhibits lighten the tone with tongue-in-cheek titles like “The Mob’s Greatest Hits.” For added cheer, there’s a speakeasy exhibit in the basement, complete with a well-stocked bar.
12. Visit the National Atomic Testing Museum
Address: 755 E Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Price: Free to $29 per person
Step into the National Atomic Testing Museum’s Ground Zero Theater to feel what it’s like to witness an above-ground nuclear test — simulated, of course. Hundreds of very real nuclear blasts were triggered at the Nevada Test Site northwest of Las Vegas from 1951 to 1992, and the museum recounts that history with exhibits of rockets, Geiger counters and photographs of mushroom clouds, among many other items.
A piece of the Berlin Wall commemorates the end of the Cold War, and display cases are filled with fun pop culture memorabilia, including comic books, atomic-themed toys and designs for backyard fallout shelters.
13. Capture Pictures at the Neon Museum
Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd. N, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Price: Free to $28 per person
Historic preservation is not much of a thing in Las Vegas, where novelty is valued above all else, and familiar buildings that have stood for decades regularly succumb to the wrecking ball, but that’s beginning to change. Consider the Neon Museum, for instance, where classic signs from casinos and hotels that were torn down years ago enjoy a second life as works of art on display.
Huge lightbulb-studded logos proclaiming yesteryear’s vacation destinations like the Stardust and the Sahara are exhibited outdoors in the Neon Boneyard. Nighttime tours are so popular that tickets can be hard to come by.
14. Step Back in Time at the Nevada State Museum
AAA Team: Stock Image of Nevada State Museum
Suggested Alt text: People touring the Nevada State Museum
Address: 309 S Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107
Price: Free to $10 per person
Looking to delve into the history of the Silver State? One of the best things to do in Las Vegas is visit the Nevada State Museum on the Springs Preserve. The museum offers a comprehensive look at everything from prehistoric fossils to the city's mobster era.
Don't miss the nearby Origen Experience, featuring 75 interactive exhibits and an indoor theater dedicated to educating visitors about Las Vegas' rich history. Together, these attractions provide a fascinating journey through Nevada’s diverse past.
Unique Experiences
Craving something extraordinary? Las Vegas offers more than just world-famous shows and endless casinos. From indulging in a chocolate lover's paradise to rocking out on a one-of-a-kind mini golf course, these hidden gems will elevate your Vegas adventure.
15. Visit Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden
Address: 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson, NV 89014
Price: Free entrance
One of the best-hidden gems outside Las Vegas is a chocolate lover's paradise. Just 20 minutes south in Henderson, the Ethel M Chocolates Factory is brimming with delicious wonders. Embark on a self-guided tour to witness the magic behind your favorite treats, from bean to bar.
Afterward, explore the serene botanical cactus garden, home to over 150 unique species, making it Nevada's largest. Indulge your senses with a chocolate tasting led by an expert chocolatier, then browse the retail store for the perfect sweet souvenirs.
16. Play at the Pinball Hall of Fame
Address: 4925 Las Vegas Blvd. S, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Price: Free entrance with $5 for gameplay
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a nostalgic treasure right on the Strip, perfect for pinball enthusiasts of all ages. This hidden gem is a paradise filled with a vast collection of vintage and modern machines, some dating back to the 1950s. Inside, you'll find rows upon rows of meticulously restored pinball machines, all open for public play.
While entering is free, bring some spare change to enjoy a few rounds and rekindle that childlike spirit. Whether you're a pinball pro or just looking for a fun diversion, this spot offers a unique and playful escape in Vegas.
17. Get Hands-On at Dig This Las Vegas
Address: 800 W Roban Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89044
Price: $27.50 to $329, depending on age group
Unleash your inner construction worker at Dig This Las Vegas. You won’t find another experience like this in Vegas, where you get to operate real heavy machinery. Climb onto a massive bulldozer or excavator and put your skills to the test as you move dirt or crush a few cars.
No prior experience? No problem—expert instructors at Dig This will guide you every step of the way. It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure that offers a thrilling and unforgettable way to play in the dirt.
18. Tee Off at Kiss Monster Mini Golf
Address: 3700 W Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103
Price: $11.95 per person
Play a round at Kiss Monster Mini Golf, a course dedicated to the legendary rock band Kiss. This glow-in-the-dark, 18-hole course is packed with decor and memorabilia that bring the rock star lifestyle to life.
Its challenging obstacles and creative layout offer an exciting game for players of all ages. Whether you're a Kiss fan or just seeking a fun group activity, this mini golf experience delivers a rock 'n' roll twist on traditional gameplay.
19. Discover Art at Meow Wolf's Omega Mart
Address: 3215 S Rancho Dr. #100, Las Vegas, NV 89102
Price: $54 per person
Immerse yourself in a world of imagination at Meow Wolf Las Vegas. The Las Vegas location features the Omega Mart, the immersive arts company's second permanent installation. This giant, surreal supermarket is stocked with delightfully wacky products that are far from your typical grocery store fare.
Beyond the supermarket, you'll step into a psychedelic visual and audio experience that redefines interactive art installations. This is a must-visit for art lovers, creatives and anyone looking to add a uniquely captivating experience to their Vegas trip.
20. Explore Downtown Container Park
Address: 707 E Fremont St., Las Vegas, NV 89101
Price: Free entrance
Located in the Fremont East District, Downtown Container Park is a unique open-air shopping and dining experience. This cheap Las Vegas attraction is built from repurposed shipping containers and offers various shops, restaurants and entertainment options. While exploring this one-of-a-kind destination, don't miss the iconic 55-foot-tall praying mantis sculpture or the whimsical 3-foot-high tree house.
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