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PLACES TO SEE
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AUTO COLLECTIONS View the world’s largest gathering of classic automobiles in a gallery-like setting at the Imperial Palace. More than just a museum, many of these vehicles are actually for sale. Admission $8.95 adults, $5 children and seniors. Open daily, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. 702-731-3311 |
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BELLAGIO’S CONSERVATORY & BOTANICAL
GARDENS Brilliance abounds inside the breathtaking gardens. Let your imagination wander as you assume a leisurely stroll amongst rare natural finds, selected distinctively for Bellagio from all over the world. Displays change seasonally. Open daily, 24/7. Free and open to the public. |
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BODIES THE EXHIBITION Showcasing more than 260 organs, whole and partial body specimens. All have been meticulously dissected, preserved through an innovative process and respectfully presented. Admission, $31 adults, $29 seniors, $23 children. Luxor Hotel, open daily, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 702-262-4400 |
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BONNIE SPRINGS RANCH Visit ‘Old Nevada,’ with a western town theme, featuring a gunfighter show and horseback riding amidst a replica of an 1880’s mining town. 1 Gunfighter Lane, Blue Diamond. Admission fee is $20 per car (up to 6 persons) or $3 per person (via bus). Open daily, 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.. 702-875-4191 |
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EIFFEL TOWER REPLICA A pair of phenomenal landmarks are the Paris Hotel’s 50-story Eiffel Tower and its two-thirds-size Arc de Triomphe, both reproductions of the Parisian originals. Admission $10 adults, $7 children and seniors. Open daily, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 a.m.; prices increase from 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. 702-946-7000 |
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ETHEL M FACTORY AND CACTUS GARDENS Something uniquely delicious is a trip to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and accompanying two-acre Botanical Cactus Gardens, located just a few miles east of the Strip, at Mountain Vista and Sunset Way. Free tours are presented daily, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. 702-458-8864 |
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FOUNTAINS OF BELLAGIO This spot is a must-stop for anyone walking the Strip. Admission is free. Bellagio Hotel, show times are Mon.-Fri., 3-8 p.m., every 30 mins.; 8 p.m. -12 a.m., every 15 mins.; Sat.-Sun., 12-8 p.m., every 30 mins.; 8 p.m.-12 a.m., every 15 minutes. Schedule may vary. 702-693-7111 |
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FREMONT ST. EXPERIENCE DOWNTOWN A seven-block, open-air pedestrian mall with live entertainment, concerts, and Viva Vision, the largest screen on the planet, is a must-stop for visitors and locals alike. Graphic light shows nightly at the top of the hour, starting at 6 p.m. and ending at midnight. 702-678-5777 |
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GAMEWORKS Offering state-of-the-art video games and attractions with one-of-a-kind, quality dining and bar experiences. Showcase Mall, 3785 Las Vegas Blvd. South. Open daily, 10 a.m.-midnight, Sun.-Thurs.; til 1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. Admission is free. 18 and over after 9 p.m. |
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HOOVER DAM AND LAKE MEAD Hoover Dam, 27 miles southeast of Las Vegas, is considered one of the world’s great engineering wonders; and Lake Mead, among the world’s largest man-made lakes; both are perhaps Nevada’s most famous attractions. Tours into the dam are available, allowing you to view the wondrous inner workings. 702-471-7155 |
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LAS VEGAS SPRINGS PRESERVE Features museums, galleries, an amphitheater, trails, botanical garden and children’s playground. 333 South Valley View Blvd. Admission to the Gardens and Trails is free. Admission, $6.95–$18.95. Open daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Trails close at dusk or 6 p.m. 702-822-7700 |
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LION HABITAT The MGM Grand’s 5,345 square feet facility has an enormous viewing area that allows humans to be surrounded by the stately kings and queens of the jungle as they go about their lionly business. No admission charge. Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 702-891-1111 |
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MADAME TUSSAUDS LAS VEGAS Over 100 life-like wax figures providing guests with an opportunity to make contact with famous figures. Interactive displays include ‘Marry Clooney’ or ‘Sing on American Idol.’ Admission $25 adults, $17 students, $14 children. Venetian Hotel, open daily, from 10 a.m. 702-862-7800 |
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MIRACLE MILE FOUNTAIN
This multi-million dollar water fountain at the Planet Hollywood Resort shoots water 50 feet high and features lighted water effects and color-changing fog choreographed to an original soundtrack. Operates daily at the top of the hour, 10 a.m.- 11 p.m. Free admission. |
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MIRAGE VOLCANO Known the world over as an iconic Strip feature. First launched in 1989, the redesigned volcano and hotel’s signature attraction, features more fireworks and a state-of-the-art sound system. Erupting nightly. Show times are every hour, on the hour, from dusk to 11 p.m. Free admission. |
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MOUNT CHARLESTON ALL-SEASON FUN
Only about an hour’s drive away are Mount Charleston and Toiyabe National Forest. In summer, it’s a cool retreat to mountainous slopes and stately pines. In winter, it’s a snow-covered escape with a ski resort. Best of all, it’s free and open all year-round. |
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MYSTIC FALLS PARK This laser and light show fills the picturesque indoor park at Sam’s Town Hotel. Entitled Sunset Stampede, it’s a unique journey of the Western pioneer experience choreographed to a symphonic score. It plays daily at the waterfall area, 2, 6, 8 and 10 p.m. 702-456-7777 |
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NASCAR CYBER SPEEDWAY This virtual reality facility gives people of all ages the thrill of being an Indy race car driver. A 40,000 sq. ft. cyber speedway provides interactive simulators in 24 service bays. Races are $10, re-races $6. Sahara Hotel, open Sun.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-midnight; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-1 a.m. 702-734-7223 |
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PINBALL HALL OF FAME MUSEUM Featuring the world’s largest collection of pinball and amusement games. The machines (over 100!) are completely refurbished and you can play them if you choose – for a nominal fee. Free admission. 1610 E. Tropicana. Open daily, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 702-434-9746 |
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SECRET GARDEN & DOLPHIN HABITAT A wondrous habitat at the Mirage Hotel, it features some of the world’s rarest and most exotic animals. Admission $15 adults, $10 children (ages 4-12), and includes entry to the adjacent Live Dolphin Display. Hours of operation vary on weekdays, weekends, and holidays. 702-791-7188 |
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SHARK REEF AQUARIUM Come face-to-face with some of the earth’s most fascinating creatures – over 2,000 animals – sharks, sea turtles and piranhas – in 1.6 million gallons of seawater. Tickets are $16.95 adults, $10.95 children. Mandalay Bay, open daily, 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. 702-632-4555 |
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SHOW IN THE SKY The best free show in Las Vegas is back and better than ever – with all new costumes, sets and choreography – featuring stunning dancers performing all new routines to edgy music. Playing at the Rio All-Suite Hotel. Show times are hourly from 7 p.m. until midnight, Thurs.-Sun. Free admission. |
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SIRENS OF TI Sexy sirens battle a band of renegade male pirates in Siren’s Cove at Treasure Island. Created by award-winning director Kenny Ortega, guests experience music, energy, dance, temptation, danger, sensuality and seduction. Show times are 5:30, 7, 8:30 and 10 p.m., nightly. Free admission. |
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STRATOSPHERE TOWER/THRILL
RIDES Visible from any part of town, this is America’s tallest tower, housing three of the world’s highest, most exhilarating thrill rides, Big Shot, X Scream, and Insanity – The Ride. Admission is $10.95. Rides are $9. Open Sun.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 a.m.; Fri.-Sat., til 2 a.m. 702-380-7777 |
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STREET PERFORMERS AT THE VENETIAN Located in St. Mark’s square, this is home to a wide range of performing artists – life size puppets, dazzling magicians, stratospheric stilt walkers, talented performers and living statues all vying for your attention. Daily performances at 12, 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. 702-733-5000 |
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TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBIT Marvel at over 300 authentic Titanic artifacts, discovered 12,500 feet beneath the sea. The exhibit includes a fully constructed replica of the Titanic’s famed grand staircase and promenade deck. Admission, $27, adults; $25 seniors, $20 children. Luxor Hotel, open daily, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. . 702-262-4000 |
MUSEUMS
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ATOMIC TESTING MUSEUM Visitors begin a storied journey with visuals of world events leading up to the establishment of the famed Nevada Test Site. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; 1-5 p.m., Sun. Admission, $12; ages 7-17/Seniors/Military with ID, $9. 755 E. Flamingo, west of Swenson. 702-794-5161 |
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BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART "Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form" features figurative works by such artists as Renoir, Picasso, Giacometti, Hockney and more. Exhibit through January 9, 2011. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun.-Tues. and Thurs.; till 7 p.m., Wed., Fri.-Sat. Admission, $15; Residents/Seniors (65+), $12; Students/Military, $10. 702-693-7871 |
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CLARK COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM A place where you can explore the rich history of Southern Nevada. Highlights include Heritage Street which is a collection of historic homes; a ghost town and nature trail. Open daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission, $1.50; Seniors/Children, $1. 1830 S. Boulder Highway. 702-455-7955 |
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EROTIC HERITAGE MUSEUM Featuring perspectives depicting our erotic heritage, with over 24,000 sq. ft. of permanent and featured exhibits. Open 3 p.m.-12 a.m., Wed.-Fri.; 12 p.m.-12 a.m., Sat.-Sun. Admission, $20; Seniors/Residents, $15; free for retired military. 3275 Industrial Rd. 702-455-7955 |
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LAS VEGAS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Hear the roar of the most ferocious beast of all time – Tyrannosaurus Rex! Children experience fun activities in the Hands-On Room. Plus a 2,500 sq. ft. exhibit entitled Summer of Sharks. Open daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults, $8, children, $4. 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North. 702-384-3466 |
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LIED DISCOVERY CHILDREN’S
MUSEUM A fascinating 22,000 sq. ft. facility for people of all ages, with more than 100 hands-on exhibits. Open daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues.-Fri.; 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sat.; noon-5:30 p.m., Sun. Admission, $8; Children 1-17, $7. 833 Las Vegas Blvd. No. 702-382-3445 |
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MARJORIE BARRICK MUSEUM OF NATIONAL
HISTORY Learn about the native cultures of the southwest through items like Navajo weaving, jewelry and basketry; plus an extensive collection of Mexican masks. Open 8 a.m.-4.45 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. Admission is free. UNLV, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway. 702-895-3381 |
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NEON MUSEUM 11 refurbished signs can be seen 24/7 in outdoor ‘galleries’ downtown, with the first located at the front of Neonopolis. Visit www.neonmuseum.org for more information on a self-guided walking tour. Other signs may be viewed at The Boneyard, by appointment only. 702-387-6366 |
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NEVADA STATE MUSEUM Its mission is to inspire and educate a diverse public about the history and natural history of Nevada. Permanent exhibits include the Earth Sciences Gallery. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed.-Sat. Admission, $4; Seniors, $3; Children 17 and under, free. Lorenzi Park, 700 Twin Lakes Drive. 702-486-5205 |
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NEVADA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM Ride the train on the historic Boulder Branch Line, in coaches dating back to 1911. Departs from the Boulder City Depot at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. Fares are $8; Seniors (65+), $7; Children (11 and under), $4. 702-486-5933. 702-486-5933 |
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OLD LAS VEGAS MORMON FORT This state historic park, built by missionaries in 1855, is considered to be the birthplace of Las Vegas. Offering a truly nostalgic experience for the entire family. Open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tues.-Sat. Admission, $1; Children (12 and under), free. 500 E. Washington Ave. 702-486-3511 |