Nothing in life is free. Yeah, tell that to people who get to enjoy all of the free — yes, free — attractions in Vegas.
Sure, you’re probably plunking your hard-earned dollars into the slots or throwing dolla’ dolla’ bills on the tables, but come on, once you’ve folded, it’s nice to know you can still get something (for nothing) out of Sin City.
Bellagio Fountains
The famed fountains outside of Bellagio cannot be missed. Just ask the throngs of people who line-up against the fence each day to witness the spectacular water show unfold in the 8-acre lake. These dancing fountains are timed to music ranging from classical to Broadway and more. To check out the free beauty, head to the front of the hotel after 3 p.m. during the week, or noon on weekends. Shows run until midnight and operate every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes at night. Take note — if it is windy, the show won’t go on.
Fremont Street Experience
Downtown Las Vegas is not to be skipped for the freebies. Sure, you can get a thrill simply people-watching here, but the Fremont Street Experience is the real attraction for out-of-towners. Simply look up at the canopy packed with millions of LED lights to create different displays set to music. Plus, there are heaps of free concerts to enjoy between the light shows.
Bellagio Conservatory
Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Once you’ve enjoyed the free fountains, step inside Bellagio to explore the conservatory and botanical gardens. The whimsical botanical gardens are updated seasonally and have been known to feature everything from a working water mill to cranberry-filled ponds. There are more than 100 horticulturists who maintain the gardens, arranging floral works of art around gazebos and winding pathways.
The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
You’ve probably seen the infamous sign in posters, on T-shirts … well, just about everywhere when Vegas is mentioned. This iconic sign can also be in your own photos. Located at both the North and South ends of The Strip (the popular one is just south of Mandalay Bay), the sign is open 24 hours a day. You can glimpse newlyweds smooching, bachelorettes getting that final Facebook photo before heading out to the clubs and even Big Bird. Just say “cheese.”
The Wildlife Habitat
Housed at The Flamingo, The Wildlife Habitat is a popular free attraction for families. Inside the habitat, animal-lovers can find a flock of Chilean Flamingos, plus plenty of other feathered friends. The newest addition to the exhibit are brown pelicans rescued from California in 2012. Set next to the Flamingo pool area, it’s a chance to view entirely different animals.
Lake of Dreams Show
Get ready to be dazzled by the Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas! This nightly show transforms a three-acre lake into a magical wonderland with vivid puppetry, cool music, and mind-blowing light effects. Picture a 90-foot waterfall and 1,500 pine trees setting the stage for a spectacle you won’t forget. The best part? It’s free and runs every half hour from dusk. Grab a drink at Bar Parasol or dine at Lakeside for the perfect view.
Circus Acts at Circus Circus
If you don’t want to spend time at AdventureDome, the huge indoor amusement park at the children-friendly resort, then head over and visit the circus midway. The kiddies will love the free circus shows they can enjoy, complete with jugglers, acrobats, trapeze artists and other performers. Yes, there are clowns. Bragging rights: it’s the world’s largest permanent circus. The fun starts every day at 11 a.m.
CityCenter Fine Art Collection
CityCenter offers free art for your culture fix. Artists like Maya Lin, Henry Moore and others are packed into the property for your viewing pleasure. It may be packed into the high-end shopping area, but the art here is truly stunning and worth turning a blind eye to Prada for.
Cosmopolitan Art
Speaking of art, The Cosmopolitan resort is packed with art. From the cool Art-O-Matic machines where you can snatch up original art for a few bucks, to the world’s biggest chandelier to the huge high-heeled shoe you can take a photo with, art abounds thanks to Cosmopolitan’s embracing artists like Yoko Ono and other big names.
First Friday
Spread over Downtown, First Friday is the merging of art and culture. And locals. Here, you can stroll through the many galleries packed into the Arts District, sip wine (OK, that’s not free), and check out the local art scene. There’s live music, performances and more. It runs the first Friday of every month (hence the name) and is a perfect way to get a glimpse of real(!), live(!) people living in Vegas.
DO you have a favorite free attraction in Las Vegas? Join in the discussion below and let us know about your favorite Vegas freebie!
