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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mobster in shadow
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Beyond Wiseguys: What to Do Near the Mob Museum

Chances are your Las Vegas to-do list already stars the Mob Museum—it packs a punch of underworld history, notorious true-crime tales, and vintage Vegas intrigue. But stick around downtown and you’ll discover it’s not just mobsters making headlines here. Within a quick stroll you’ll find glowing neon, wild performances, offbeat museums, and enough eats to make any wiseguy jealous. Whether you want to chase high-rise thrills, meet wax legends, or sample the town’s best pastries, downtown Las Vegas delivers non-stop fun around every corner. Ready to see what keeps the energy buzzing long after you’ve said ‘fuggedaboutit’ to the Mob Museum? Let’s dive in!  Our favorite things to do near the Mob Museum include:  The Neon Museum  Las Vegas Downtown - Fremont St. Walking Tour by Las Vegas Walking Tours  Container Park  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  The Punk Rock Museum  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  Las Vegas Natural History Museum  The Official "SAW" Escape Room  The Neon Museum: Vintage Vegas in Glowing Color  If you have a soft spot for Sin City’s sights and stories, The Neon Museum is an absolute must. Just a short walk from the Mob Museum, this sprawling “neon boneyard” hosts a dazzling collection of historic signs rescued from old casinos, hotels, and classic Vegas businesses. The moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted by massive, artfully arranged letters and light displays—each one packed with quirky backstories and a healthy dose of Vegas lore.  What makes this place so special? It’s the way you can time-travel across decades as you wander through the glowing maze. Guided tours fill you in on everything from Rat Pack hangouts to notorious mob-run establishments; come after dark and the signs light up in a kaleidoscope of color, giving you prime photo ops (and major retro vibes). There’s a reverent hush mixed with giddy excitement as visitors realize they’re standing among pieces that once defined the world’s brightest city. Whether you’re a photography buff, history lover, or pop culture obsessive, The Neon Museum lights up every curiosity you bring with you.  Las Vegas Downtown - Fremont St. Walking Tour by Las Vegas Walking Tours  Want to unravel downtown Vegas beyond the blinking lights and take in its colorful backstories? The expert-led Fremont St. Walking Tour is your best bet. These lively guides don’t just know their mob lore—they’ll clue you in on Prohibition secrets, hidden speakeasies, legendary casino rivalries, and a cast of characters stranger than fiction.  Stroll through Art Deco hotels, see public art that will challenge your Vegas stereotypes, and get pointed toward some of the city’s most delicious food and drink stops. The tour’s small size means you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, snap photos, and discover details you’d never find solo—from rooftop murals to secret tunnels. Leave feeling like you’re in on the real story of downtown—and hungry for even more.  Container Park: Where Shopping, Snacking, and Giant Mantises Meet  Just a few minutes’ stroll from the Mob Museum sits Downtown Container Park, Las Vegas’s favorite outdoor hangout built entirely from repurposed shipping containers. The moment you spot the 40-foot, flame-breathing praying mantis at the entrance, you know this is not your average shopping spot.  Inside, indie boutiques, imaginative art spaces, and local food stands form a quirky, family-friendly playground. Kids can let loose in the treehouse playground, while adults browse funky jewelry, vinyl, and hand-crafted homeware, or chill with a craft cocktail on an upper-level patio. There’s usually live music, pop-up programming, and plenty of shaded seating for a needed break. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or looking to people-watch in a hip, laid-back space, Container Park is a crowd-pleaser.  The Punk Rock Museum: Grit, Guitars, and Outrageous Stories  Ready to swap mob legends for power chords? The Punk Rock Museum, a quick ride from the Mob Museum, is the only place in Vegas where you can see Sid Vicious’s bass guitar, wall-to-wall band flyers, and graffiti signed by the titans of punk. What sets this space apart is its cheeky, inclusive vibe—staffed by musicians and superfans who make every guest feel welcome, regardless of music pedigree.  Check out the hands-on “jam room” where you can actually strum a rock star’s guitar, or don your best punk attire for a gallery selfie. Engaging displays blend wild punk history with a celebration of DIY culture. There are rotating exhibitions dedicated to everything from zines to underground club scenes, and the museum bar slings a mean PBR or two. Whether you grew up on The Ramones or just love a rebellious spirit, you’ll leave with a smile—and maybe some new music on your playlist.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour: Vegas at Your Own Pace  Sometimes you want to take in the action with a comfy seat and a cool breeze—enter the Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour. You can board nearby and loop all around downtown and the Strip, hitting highlights like The Strat, Bellagio, and the LINQ at your leisure.  What do we love? You get terrific city views from the upper deck and live commentary packed with quirky local facts and stories. It’s ideal for getting the lay of the land without the hassle of parking, and you can jump off wherever a new adventure catches your eye. With stops close to major restaurants, shows, and Instagrammable sights, this is the stress-free way to cover a lot of Vegas ground (and maybe get a tan while you do it).  Las Vegas Natural History Museum: From Dinos to Desert Life  A quick walk or short rideshare hop from the Mob Museum lands you at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum—a crowd-pleaser for anyone curious about the world beyond slot machines and showgirls. Here, you’ll wander through exhibits bursting with everything from animatronic dinosaurs and Egyptian mummies to dazzling gem collections and interactive marine life displays.  The museum does a fantastic job mixing fun and education. Kids get hands-on with fossils and life-size dino skeletons while adults geek out over comprehensive wildlife dioramas. Don’t miss the “Treasures of Egypt” gallery—think golden sarcophagi, ancient artifacts, and enough intrigue to ignite any budding Indiana Jones. The live shark tank is another highlight, giving you a glimpse of fierce Vegas residents that don’t carry out heists. It’s cool, approachable, and ideal for travelers looking to change the pace (or weather!) for a few hours.    Whether your Las Vegas trip revolves around mobsters or you’re just here for downtown’s offbeat energy, there’s a whole world of fun, flavors, and surprises steps away from the Mob Museum. From neon nostalgia and wild art to sweet stops, speakeasy cocktails, and beyond, downtown proves again and again that in Vegas, history and hijinks go hand in hand.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to 4 amazing days in Vegas, and the best sites to see at night.   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! 
sign welcoming visitors to henderson in nevada
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Henderson & Green Valley: The Ultimate Las Vegas Day Trip Guide

Think Las Vegas is all neon and casino buzz? Not quite! For a fresh take on Vegas living, set your sights on Henderson and Green Valley—vibrant neighborhoods just a short drive from the Strip. Here, desert landscapes blend with lush parks, family-friendly attractions, indie dining gems, and a real taste of local life. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle, get outdoors, or discover a new favorite cocktail, these communities deliver the goods. We’re rounding up our favorite spots and can’t-miss experiences. Ready to level up your Vegas trip?  Our top things to do in Henderson & Green Valley include:  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes  Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve  Cowabunga Bay Water Park  The District at Green Valley Ranch  Sunset Station Casino  Ethel M Chocolates & Cactus Garden  Lake Las Vegas  Lion Habitat Ranch  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Clark County Museum  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes  If your perfect Vegas day means lacing up your sneakers and getting outdoors, this one’s for you. Love Hikes lets you experience the epic wild side of the Mojave Desert without any stress over maps or trails. Passionate guides know every secret spot, so you can focus on the scenery—from fiery red rocks to distant mountain vistas—instead of double-checking your GPS.  Hikes range from easy nature strolls (ideal for families or anyone new to desert hiking) to challenging treks for those chasing a little adrenaline. The guides share stories about local wildlife, native plants, and geological quirks you’d never notice on your own. You’ll leave sweating, smiling, and carrying enough fun facts to impress your friends back home. Bring water, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you won’t want the trail to end. Hiking with locals always delivers a fresh perspective on this spectacular slice of Nevada.  Cowabunga Bay Water Park  When the desert heat hits, Henderson’s Cowabunga Bay is the answer. This retro-themed water park dishes out summer fun for all ages—wave pools, towering slides, lazy rivers, and a splash zone just for littles. Plunge down the Surfin’ USA slide, float with your friends in the Cowabunga River, or tackle the Wild Surf, where the park’s biggest raft sweeps you up and spits you out with a grin.  Cabanas dot the shaded areas if you want to keep your feet dry and your drinks cold. From music pumping on the PA to staff that genuinely seem to love their job, the atmosphere is all-out playful. What we love? The park’s size keeps things manageable, so it’s easy to keep track of kids, meet up with your crew, and get from one ride to the next without epic lines. Bring your sunscreen and a serious appetite for funnel cake—the snack stands here rival the Strip.  The District at Green Valley Ranch  Think of this spot as your one-stop lifestyle playground. The District at Green Valley Ranch is Henderson’s favorite for shopping, eating and people-watching. Tree-lined walkways are dotted with sculptures and fountains, while boutiques range from trendy fashion outposts to specialty foodie stores packed with local treats.  Foodies, take note: from coffee shops serving house-roasted brews to wine bars with patio views, there’s no shortage of tempting stops. If you’re bringing kids, the outdoor play spaces and popular splash pad make it easy to let them burn off some energy. As the sun goes down, twinkling lights and live music (weekends especially) give the whole place a cozy, community vibe. It’s the sort of spot that makes you want to linger, whether you’re hunting for a new outfit or just stretching out your evening with a scoop of gelato.  Sunset Station Casino  For those craving casino excitement without the chaos of the Strip, Sunset Station is your go-to. Locals love its laid-back energy and wallet-friendly tables—not to mention the roomy slot floors, cavernous bingo hall, and an all-ages bowling alley perfect for group outings. The interiors balance flash and comfort, so you can chase the jackpot in style.  Dining options deserve a callout, too: Sonoma Cellar Steakhouse brings classic Vegas sizzle, while the Feast Buffet piles your plate with global flavors. Want to keep the night going? Head to Club Madrid for live band sets or catch a flick at the on-site movie theater. Parking is easy, lines are rare, and the staff are famously friendly. For a taste of Vegas gaming, locals-style, this spot truly delivers.  Ethel M Chocolates & Cactus Garden  Chocoholics, this is your pilgrimage. Ethel M Chocolates calls Henderson home with a tour and tasting experience locals rave about. Watch chocolatiers craft gourmet truffles and nutty brittles by hand, then—best of all—sample your way through silky signature bites at the tasting counter.  Don’t skip the attached Botanical Cactus Garden, one of the largest in the Southwest. Pathways wind through hundreds of species: towering saguaros, prickly pear, and even plants that flower at night. The garden puts on a magical holiday light display in winter, but it’s photogenic all year round. And for a classic souvenir? Their chocolate-covered toffee is legendary—grab a box for your next adventure, or enjoy it on a shaded bench amidst the cacti.  Lion Habitat Ranch  Animal lovers will flip for Lion Habitat Ranch, a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to giving retired show lions a plush, peaceful home. Meet resident big cats up close—often napping, sunning, or playfully interacting with their keepers. The guides here are always happy to share the personalities and backstories of each lion, plus fun facts that make every encounter unique.  The energy is warm and educational, with photo ops that’ll fill your camera roll. Want to get wild beyond lions? Check out Ozzie the painting giraffe, whose whimsical works are available in the gift shop. Children adore the behind-the-scenes feeding demos and up-close views—no binoculars needed. It’s an experience that delivers on animal awe with a big helping of heart.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Take a happy little detour to the LINQ Promenade for Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe, a spot that makes any morning (or afternoon) shine. Their pastries are dazzling—think flaky almond croissants, rich Nutella-filled donuts, and picture-perfect fruit tarts. The baristas whip up lattes with serious skill, and there’s plenty of seating for a leisurely brunch or coffee catch-up.  Decorated with pastel tiles and airy light fixtures, it’s a place that feels equal parts modern and inviting. Vegan options mean everyone can dig in, and the display case tempts with classic baklava next to red velvet cupcakes. Want something you can only get here? Go for the pistachio cannoli—it’s the talk of the café and the perfect sweet bite to pair with your espresso. With friendly staff and a steady stream of both locals and travelers, it’s a lovely, low-key way to recharge before heading out for more exploring in and around Henderson and Green Valley.  Clark County Museum  Ready for a dash of quirky local history? The Clark County Museum sits on a sprawling, sun-soaked campus where Nevada’s past comes alive. Walk through Heritage Street, a recreated block lined with historical homes and businesses—you’ll step right into a retro diner, a functioning railroad depot, and even a print shop just as it looked decades ago. Each house is staged with period décor, creating the vibe of a living time capsule.  Inside the main museum building, dive into everything that shaped Southern Nevada, from ancient fossils and mining tools to glitzy slot machines and vintage neon signs. The staff love sharing hidden stories about the items on display, and kid-friendly scavenger hunts are a fun touch. The desert garden outside bursts with native flowers and interesting plants, making it perfect for a stroll or picnic if you need a breather. No trip here feels the same twice, and a visit is a real treat—for history-buffs, nostalgia hunters, and anyone who loves to dig a little deeper.    Warm up your Vegas itinerary with these local favorites, and you’ll see why Henderson and Green Valley are so cherished by those in the know. From sunrises on the trail to chocolate garden strolls, wild animal encounters to hidden sweet spots, there’s plenty to savor just a short ride from the Strip. Ready to discover a new side of Las Vegas? These neighborhoods are waiting to welcome you!    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of which tourist traps to avoid, and make the most of your neon-soaked nights 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! 

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