Two days in Las Vegas – a weekend itinerary

Spending the weekend in Las Vegas? See the best of Sin City and experience all the highlights with our two-day sightseeing itinerary.

Published: July 18, 2024
Las Vegas Skyline

Spending a weekend in Las Vegas? See the best of Sin City and experience all the highlights with our two-day itinerary. Jam-packed with classic Vegas sights and attractions, this plan delivers a different slice of Vegas each day: you'll spend the first day exploring the old-school charm of Downtown and the second day focusing on the glitz and glamor of the Strip.

Your weekend itinerary includes:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus sightseeing tour
  • The 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign
  • The Mob Museum
  • Fremont Street
  • Stratosphere Observation Deck
  • Madame Tussauds
  • High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ
  • Helicopter night-ride over the Strip

📅 We’ve also got 4-day and 7-day Las Vegas itineraries, in case you happen to have a little more time on your hands.

Day 1: Downtown Las Vegas

Fremont Street casino in Las Vegas

  

Big Bus Las Vegas sightseeing tour

This Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is hands-down the best way to see all the top sights in Las Vegas in one comprehensive tour, particularly if you're a Sin City newbie. The bus's two routes travel to various points of interest along the Strip, Downtown and beyond. Along the way, you'll be regaled with entertaining and educational anecdotes about Las Vegas history, culture and landmarks.

Some highlights along the bus routes include the 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada' sign, the Golden Nugget casino and Fremont Street. Plus, you'll get to spot legendary hotels and super-casinos, Miracle Mile, the malls, museums, monuments and more along the way.

You can use the bus tour to get to the next stops on this itinerary, although be aware you'll be dealing with the same traffic as you would if driving yourself, so be sure you leave plenty of time to get from A to B.

The 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign

Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign

Use your pass on the Big Bus tour and ride out to the iconic 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada' sign.This historic sign serves as a relic of Las Vegas' neon sign history and was designed in 1959 by Betty Willis of the Western Neon Company. Photo ops and selfies here are gratis, but be aware you may have to jockey for position with other tourists who had the same idea as you.

Alternatively, leave the selfie stick at the hotel and book a pro photographer for snaps that are guaranteed to make your Insta pop. It's a great way to take your holiday pics up a level, and you'll find it included (along with the Big Bus tour and many other Las Vegas attractions in this guide) with a Las Vegas pass from Go City.

The Mob Museum

Mob Museum

Hop on and continue your ride to the last stop where you can switch routes and join the Downtown route. Pay attention to the layout of the Strip as you ride along the first section, you'll be exploring some of the sights you've spotted along this eye-popping boulevard tomorrow!

Once you're on the Downtown route, The Mob Museum stop drops you off right at the main entrance. Head inside for an interactive and entertaining account of Sin Citys's origin story: the Mob that built the city.

You'll learn about the notorious battle between the Mob and the law enforcement that sought to put a stop to their activities. Hear both sides of the story brought to life with multi-sensory, immersive exhibits and exclusive insights from some of the key players. Oh, and there's a secret speakeasy serving up Prohibition-era cocktails here too. Bottoms up!

Fremont Street walking Tour

Couple sightseeing in Downtown Las Vegas

Stroll over to Fremont Street, a five-block entertainment destination in historic Downtown Las Vegas that's lined with shops, famous hotels, old-school casinos and more. Join the Fremont Street walking tour to discover the storied background to this cool corner of the city. Look up to the ceiling to experience the Fremont Street Experience's Viva Vision, the world's largest video screen featuring free light shows and more.

If you're looking to eat dinner while you're here, downtown Las Vegas, particularly Fremont East, has become a bit of a foodie destination in the past few years, so there are plenty of options for just about any appetite.

Day 2: The Strip

The Stratosphere Observation Deck

The Tower at the STRAT

Head up the iconic Tower at the STRAT – the tallest freestanding observation deck in the United States – for 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip, the Valley and beyond – be sure to wave to the passing helicopters! You'll have access to both indoor and outdoor decks and the Stratosphere's viewfinders will help you identify landmarks across the city and beyond.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Don't skip the opportunity to work a few celebrity sightings into your Las Vegas itinerary, albeit these are very much of the wax varierty. Mosey over to Madame Tussauds for an entertaining interactive experience with celebrity selfie opportunities galore. Pose with Miley and her wrecking ball and schmooze with Gaga, Styles, the Hulk and more in this incredible rogues' gallery.

You can also relive a crazy Vegas night with Bradley Cooper, sing on stage for Simon Cowell, and fight crime alongside Nick Fury. Touching and interacting with the wax statues is encouraged, plus there are props that visitors can use for unforgettable (and really rather believable) photos.

High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ

High Roller Observation Wheel in Las Vegas

Go for an early afternoon spin on the High Roller, America's tallest observation wheel, at 550 feet above ground. The 30-minute ride promises stunning, 360-degree views of iconic sights along the Las Vegas Strip and beyond.

If you want to toast your trip to Vegas, grab a drink from the High Roller’s wheelhouse bar before boarding your observation pod, then head to the right-hand side of the observation cabin for the best views. When you're done with your ride, be sure to spend a little time exploring the LINQ shopping and entertainment district. It's a great place for souvenirs or lunch and Las Vegas pass holders get credit to spend at Favorite Bistro and Sweet Sin, as well as a chance to ride the Fly LINQ Zipline (ideally before rather than after you've scoffed all those wonderfully Wonka-esque Sweet Sin desserts).

Helicopter night ride over the Strip

Night view of the Las Vegas Strip

What better way to round out your Las Vegas weekend adventure than with a thrilling after-dark helicopter ride over the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip. The 15-minute experience, which also takes in parts of Downtown, is hands-down the best way to see the Bellagio Fountains, Eiffel Tower and Venetian waterways in all their glory.

Prefer to stick to terra firma? Your Las Vegas pass also includes entry to several of Sin City's biggest shows, from comedy and magic spectaculars to musical tributes and the death-defying acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil.

Want more tips on making the best of a trip to Las Vegas? Course you do! Find out which of the All-Inclusive and Explorer Las Vegas passes is right for you. And check out our favorite ways to spend a morning in Sin City.

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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people enjoying a rollercoaster
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Laugh, Stroll, and Snap: Free Things Near the Big Apple Coaster

Las Vegas isn’t just about dazzling lights and daredevil rides—it’s also a playground for those who love finding fun without flashing cash. The towering Big Apple Rollercoaster at New York-New York Hotel may set your heart racing, but the surrounding neighborhood overflows with experiences that don’t cost a penny. Whether you want to soak in famous sights, snap perfect photos, or simply take in the city’s quirky energy, this part of the Strip has you covered. Stick with us as we share the best free things to do near the Big Apple Rollercoaster—perfect for rounding out an unforgettable Vegas adventure, no matter your budget.  Our favorite free things to do near the Big Apple Rollercoaster include:  Snap NYC-style photos at the Brooklyn Bridge Replica  See the Bellagio Fountain Show  Discover the Park and Bliss Dance Sculpture  Enjoy the Streetmosphere at The Park MGM Plaza  Marvel at the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat  Explore the ARIA Resort Art Tour  Window Shop at The Grand Bazaar Shops  Wander through the M&M’s World and Coca-Cola Store  Watch Performers on the Strip  Stroll the LINQ Promenade and see the Selfie Walls  Snap NYC-style Photos at the Brooklyn Bridge Replica  Just steps from the Big Apple Rollercoaster, you’ll find yourself transported to New York’s legendary Brooklyn Bridge—well, almost. The half-scale Brooklyn Bridge replica outside the New York-New York Hotel isn’t just an architectural nod to the East Coast; it’s a gathering spot with loads of energy. We love wandering here early in the morning before the crowds, when the backdrop is perfect for snap-happy tourists. The bridge looks especially stunning at dusk, all lit up with Vegas sparkle and the glow of passing traffic. Play “spot the differences” with your favorite New York scenes, snap selfies worthy of your socials, or take group shots with Lady Liberty peeking in the background. Musicians and street performers sometimes add even more flavor, turning the walk into a lively, free show.  Discover The Park and Bliss Dance Sculpture  Venturing toward Park MGM, you’ll stumble upon The Park—a lush, airy pedestrian plaza filled with shade, public art, and cooling misters. The real star is Bliss Dance, a magnificent 40-foot-tall sculpture of a dancing woman that captures Vegas’ energy and spirit. By day, she’s metallic and stately; by night, she glows with color-changing lights. The Park is all about chilling out under artful trees, admiring modern design, and people-watching. Follow the winding walkways, snap photos with Bliss Dance, and listen for pop-up performances. It’s a taste of open-air Las Vegas that feels worlds away from the casino crowds.  Enjoy the Streetmosphere at The Park MGM Plaza  Vegas excels at live spectacles, and many don’t require a ticket. The Park MGM Plaza, right between New York-New York and Park MGM, bursts to life with vibrant Streetmosphere—think strolling musicians, costumed entertainers, or even impromptu magicians. You never really know what you’ll stumble upon, which is half the fun. The constant activity gives the area a friendly, anything-can-happen vibe, perfect for families, friends, and solo wanderers alike. We recommend chilling here with a to-go iced coffee while you take in surprise performances—great for people-watching and creating spontaneous Vegas memories, absolutely free.  Explore the ARIA Resort Art Tour  Right across the street, ARIA Resort & Casino houses one of Las Vegas’ most unique—and totally free—art tours. Their diverse collection features dramatic sculptures, abstract murals, and installations by world-famous artists, scattered through the property’s lobby and public spaces. Grab a free map at the concierge, or simply wander and create your own gallery walk. We love how the contemporary pieces mix with ARIA’s sleek decor, transforming a simple walk into an art adventure. Standout works include Maya Lin’s elegant silver river and Henry Moore’s monumental bronze. Even if you’re not an art buff, the sheer creativity and scale promise a memorable (and air-conditioned) escape from the Strip heat.  Window Shop at The Grand Bazaar Shops  If you want to soak up all the color and excitement of a Vegas street market, but keep your wallet tucked away, The Grand Bazaar Shops in front of Bally’s are the place to be. Bursting with neon signs, open-air stalls, and quirky vitrines, this spot feels like an urban bazaar meets 24-hour carnival. Stroll the maze of stalls filled with playful souvenirs, dazzling crystals, and dazzling LED displays. Window shopping here is an adventure in itself—plus, there’s people-watching galore. Often you’ll catch live music, pop-up performances, or just an infectious buzz that feels unique to the city. Sometimes, there’s even a free sample handed out by shop owners eager to chat.  Wander Through the M&M’s World and Coca-Cola Store  A short walk will bring you to two of the Strip’s most photogenic pit stops: M&M’s World and the Coca-Cola Store. Four floors of colorful, oversized candy installations invite you to tour, pose, and giggle (no purchase required). Watch the mini-movie in the M&M theater, create your own M&M’s character pose, and gawk at retro candy memorabilia throughout the store. Next door, the Coca-Cola Store offers quirky photo spots with the Coca-Cola Bear and a sweeping overlook from its upstairs balcony. If you’re lucky, you may catch a mascot meet-and-greet. Kids and adults alike leave with big smiles (and no pressure to buy).  Watch Performers on the Strip  Las Vegas Boulevard is famous for its impromptu sidewalk shows—where else can you see Elvis impersonators, acrobats, break-dancers, and living statues all while simply walking? Grab a patch of sidewalk near New York-New York, and let the Strip’s most magnetic characters come to you. Some days, you’ll spot dazzling costumes and over-the-top characters; other evenings, musicians fill the air with the sounds of jazz, pop, or mariachi. It’s a sideshow only Vegas can deliver, brimming with energy and photo ops for the whole crew. Best of all? You can enjoy as many acts as you like, for free.  Stroll the LINQ Promenade and See the Selfie Walls  A short stroll north lands you at the LINQ Promenade—an open-air entertainment district packed with quirky art installations and “selfie walls.” Vibrant murals, funky sculptures, and rainbow-colored wings provide the perfect backdrops for Instagram-worthy travel snaps. Strolling the promenade is fun at any hour, with regular street artists, window displays, and glimpses of the High Roller Ferris wheel spinning overhead. We find the LINQ’s easygoing, playful vibe infectious, and the scenery inspires creativity. Even on the busiest days, it’s easy to find a quiet corner for a group photo or a quick dance break—without spending a penny.    You don’t need to splurge to enjoy thrills, people-watching, and those unforgettable only-in-Vegas vibes just steps from the Big Apple Rollercoaster. From snapping iconic photos by faux bridges to wandering lush wildlife habitats, the Strip rewards anyone with a sense of curiosity and a healthy respect for fun on a budget.     Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best casino hotels to call home on your Vegas adventure, and browse our guide to 4 amazing days on the Strip.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
easter eggs
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Hop into Spring: The Best Las Vegas Easter Activities

So you’re thinking of spending Easter in Las Vegas? Excellent choice! Spring in the desert means gorgeous weather, lively crowds, and a festive buzz in the air. But the real Las Vegas magic comes from the way the city transforms every holiday into a spectacular escape. Here you’ll find chocolatey treats, lively brunches, wild rides, and family activities, all sprinkled with Vegas flair. Whether you’d rather soak up poolside vibes, catch a dazzling performance, or embark on some chocolate-fueled sightseeing, Las Vegas knows how to serve up a memorable holiday. Ready to put a whole new spin on your Easter celebration? Let’s get into it.  Our fave ways to celebrate Easter in Las Vegas include:  High Roller Observation Wheel  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  The Big Apple Roller Coaster  Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix  WOW – The Vegas Spectacular  Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens (free)  The Mob Museum  Easter brunch at Mon Ami Gabi  The Neon Museum  High Roller Observation Wheel  What could be better than greeting Easter morning with panoramic views of the city? Step inside one of the High Roller’s comfy, spacious cabins and ascend 550 feet above the Strip. The mood is festive—music playing, sunlight glinting off the city’s landmarks, and a gentle rotation that gives you a full look at Las Vegas dressed in its spring finest. On clear days, you can see all the way to the mountains, and the Easter crowds below look like tiny partygoers.  It’s perfect for couples, friends, and families alike—every cabin is private, so you can share the moment in your own style (snacks and drinks are allowed, and some packages offer an open bar). If you’re in the mood, time your visit for sunset for an extra dash of romance and some of the best city photos you’ll ever take. Riding the High Roller at Easter isn’t just about sky-high thrills; it’s about getting a fresh perspective and sharing the kind of memory that makes a holiday feel special.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  Spring’s the perfect time to explore Las Vegas on wheels, and the open-top Big Bus makes sightseeing a breeze. Hop on at any stop and you’ll discover a relaxed way to see the glitz, buzz, and hidden corners of the city—no parking stress, just sunshine and fresh air as you cruise the world-famous Strip and beyond.  If you’re planning an Easter adventure for all ages, this is a winner. Live guides share snappy stories and fun Vegas trivia, and you can choose your own itinerary: snap photos by the Bellagio Fountains, hop off to browse the Forum Shops, or discover downtown’s street art and museums. The freedom to jump on and off keeps things spontaneous, and with the sun shining and spring flowers blooming, you’ll get a true taste of the city’s energy.  The Big Apple Roller Coaster  Why settle for an Easter egg hunt when you could be zipping through the New York skyline? That’s what awaits on the Big Apple Roller Coaster, a classic Vegas thrill ride perched atop the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. The red track snakes its way around replicas of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building before plunging into loop-the-loops and sharp turns.  The vibe is pure excitement—screams, laughter, and the wind racing past as you barrel around this high-speed track. It’s perfect for those looking to add a little adrenaline to their holiday, and with the city twinkling below, you’re literally on top of the world. Grab your ride photo, show off your courage, and make this an Easter you’ll be talking about for years.  WOW – The Vegas Spectacular  Easter is all about wonder, and WOW brings it in spades. This fast-paced stage spectacular at the Rio blends acrobatics, water stunts, elaborate costumes, and a sense of magic that fits the holiday mood perfectly. The show whisks you through 3D projections, dazzling dance numbers, and jaw-dropping performances—all timed to upbeat music and clever lighting.  From families with tweens to couples craving something jaw-dropping after brunch, WOW is the kind of show you’ll rave about long after the curtain falls. The performance is all smiles and applause—a perfect way to add a little sparkle to your Easter evening. And since you’re so close to the Strip’s nightlife afterward, it’s easy to continue the celebration wherever you please.  Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens  For a free dose of Easter beauty, make tracks to the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Every spring, the team outdoes themselves with spectacular themed displays. Expect lavish flower arrangements, whimsical statues, and—just for the season—giant pastel eggs, rabbits, and butterflies crafted entirely from blooms.  The scent as you walk in is glorious, the colors are vibrant, and camera phones stay at the ready—this is a spot meant for photos. The staff team constantly refreshes the display so every visit feels unique, and the tranquil soundtrack of bubbling fountains and chirping birds makes you forget you’re in the middle of a bustling resort. Wander, snap, and soak up a rare moment of calm and color that puts even the prettiest garden back home to shame.  The Mob Museum  If you crave a little history (or just a cool, quirky vibe), the Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas adds a twist to your Easter weekend. Housed in a former courthouse, every floor tells intriguing stories of America’s and Vegas’s most notorious gangsters and the cops who dogged them.  Interactive exhibits, vintage artifacts, and immersive displays let you explore everything from Prohibition-era speakeasies to high-stakes courtroom drama. Don’t miss the underground Distillery where you’ll learn about the art of making moonshine—with a tasting menu for the grownups. Visiting here is the perfect palate-cleanser between pool time and brunch. You’ll leave with epic stories and maybe even a few conversation starters for the dinner table.  Easter brunch at Mon Ami Gabi  No Vegas Easter is complete without brunch, and Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas captures the spirit better than most. This pretty French bistro overlooks the Strip, with a sidewalk patio THAT puts you right at the heart of the city’s energy (ideal for people-watching, too). Inside, you’ll find classic mosaic floors, cozy banquettes, and a warm Parisian buzz—especially lovely in the morning sunshine.  The menu is a treat: fluffy French toast drizzled in syrup, pillowy quiche Lorraine, buttery croissants, and, for those with solid appetites, a decadent eggs Benedict with truffle hollandaise. Adult sippers should try the signature Bloody Mary or a Mimosa—both are perfect for toasting to a laid-back Vegas morning. Mon Ami Gabi’s attention to detail goes beyond food; the service is always top-notch, and the ambiance strikes just the right balance between elegance and fun. Whether you opt for a patio table with front-row views of the Bellagio fountains or the inviting, plant-filled interior, brunch here sets you up for an indulgent, delicious Easter. And if you’re looking for a sweet finish, don’t skip their classic crème brûlée—a crackly-topped treat that’s genuinely special.  The Neon Museum  Step into Vegas history with a colorful stroll through The Neon Museum—home to the city’s most dazzling retired signs. The outdoor Neon Boneyard feels like a time portal: you’re surrounded by dozens of enormous neon signs, from showgirls and casinos to retro motels, all glowing with nostalgia and dusty glamour.  Easter is a wonderful time for a daytime or evening tour, as the weather is just right for exploring outdoors and snapping vibrant photos among the sparkling signage. Each sign has its own story, and the knowledgeable guides share plenty of entertaining tidbits about Vegas’s golden days (and the wild nights that made them famous).  In the evenings, the restored signs light up, transforming the space into a twinkling wonderland. The vibe is relaxed, a little quirky, and fully authentic—a counterpoint to all the brand-new dazzle on the Strip. Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, or a group of friends, The Neon Museum offers a unique slice of Vegas that you’ll talk about long after the chocolate eggs are gone.    So there you have it—Vegas is hopping with Easter fun for every kind of traveler. Whether you soar above the skyline, fill up on tasty treats, cruise the Strip, or dive into quirky local history, the city turns spring into a holiday to remember. All that’s left to do? Gather your crew, make a brunch reservation, and start planning the most entertaining Easter escape you’ve ever had.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to top nights on the Strip, and which tourist traps you should avoid.   Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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