Explore the Best Free Spots Around the STRAT Tower

Published: April 7, 2026
vegas' strat tower at dusk

Las Vegas might be famous for its dazzling casinos and jaw-dropping shows, but you don’t have to blow your budget to have an epic adventure—especially if you’re hanging out near the Tower at the STRAT. This iconic structure crowns the north end of the Strip, surrounded by quirky museums, local hangouts, and unexpected photo ops just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re mapping out a full day of fun, looking for unique places to unwind, or in search of local gems you won’t find in any guidebook, we’ve hunted down the best free things to do steps from the Tower. Stash your wallet, grab your phone (because these spots are seriously Instagram-worthy), and get ready to experience Vegas like a savvy local. 

Our favorite free things to do near the Tower at the STRAT include: 

The Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas Sign 

Street Art Along the Las Vegas Arts District 

Fremont Street Experience Light Shows 

The Little Vegas Chapel's Neon Sign Garden 

Antique Alley Mall (Browsing Only!) 

The Las Vegas Festival Grounds Murals 

Bonanza Gift Shop: The World’s Largest (Window) Shopping 

Vintage Vegas Photo Spots on The Strip North 

The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop Lineup 

Lucky Cat Art Trail at the Gateway Arches 

The Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas Sign

If you love that classic Vegas photo moment but don’t want to trek all the way to the southern edge of the Strip, hit up the Welcome to Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas sign just a few blocks from the STRAT. This retro-inspired sign nails that vintage Sin City vibe, with bright bulbs and a flawless backdrop for your crew’s next great selfie. You’ll find fewer crowds here, so there’s no awkward waiting in line—just pure photo fun, night or day. 

The sign’s plaza is perfect for people-watching or plotting your next adventure. It’s also illuminated after dark, so if you stroll by in the evening, you’ll catch that neon magic that just feels so perfectly Vegas. Whether you’re a first-timer marking your spot on the map or a frequent flyer scouting new memories, snapping a shot here guarantees vacation bragging rights. 

Street Art Along the Las Vegas Arts District 

Ready to swap casino lights for creative delights? Head south from the STRAT to the 18b Las Vegas Arts District, where blocks of ever-changing street art await. Murals cover warehouses, restaurant walls, and even electrical boxes—each one splashed with colors, pop culture icons, Vegas legends, or wild desert landscapes. 

Wandering these streets feels like stepping inside a living, breathing gallery. You never know what you’ll stumble upon next—think giant dancing skeletons, Vegas showgirls, or trippy alien owls. The vibe here is laid-back, as locals and visitors alike come here to snap photos, sip coffee from indie cafés, and simply soak up the atmosphere. If you catch First Friday (the city’s monthly art block party), you’re in for bonus performances, art demos, and high-energy fun. 

Fremont Street Experience Light Shows 

Vegas wouldn’t be Vegas without an over-the-top light show, and Fremont Street delivers with its free, swirling ceiling of LED awesomeness—just a quick trip from the STRAT (walk or hop the Deuce bus). Every night, this covered pedestrian mall explodes into color as the Viva Vision canopy kicks off an hourly digital spectacular, complete with synchronized music and wow-worthy visuals. 

These light shows are a feast for the senses, blending classic rock anthems, dazzling animation, and a contagious street party buzz. The energy is electric, with street performers, costumed characters, and fellow wide-eyed visitors adding to the fun. It’s quintessential Vegas: larger-than-life, glittery, and totally unforgettable—all for zero dollars. 

The Little Vegas Chapel’s Neon Sign Garden 

Looking for a quirky, offbeat photo spot? The Little Vegas Chapel is more than just a wedding venue—it houses a sweet outdoor Neon Sign Garden, designed for photo ops and a stroll down memory lane. From wild hearts to twinkling arrows, these rescued retro signs represent Vegas style at its finest. 

You don’t need to tie the knot to enjoy the view. Most days, the garden is open for quick photos or a breezy wander. Snap a pic beside a glowing heart, read placards hinting at decades of love stories, and soak up that Vegas kitsch you won’t find in any casino lobby. If you chat with the friendly staff, chances are you’ll walk away with a fun story or two as well. 

Antique Alley Mall (Browsing Only!) 

Channel your inner treasure hunter at Antique Alley Mall, an easy walk southwest from the STRAT. More than 60 booths are packed with oddities, retro finds, vintage slot machines, concert posters, and more—a window shopper’s paradise. Entry is totally free, so you can browse to your heart’s content, marveling at the weird and wonderful history that makes Vegas tick. 

There’s always something new to see: a wall of old-school Vegas enamel pins, glittering glassware from the Rat Pack days, or that Chuck Norris novelty mug you never knew you needed. Shop owners are happy to chat, sharing tidbits about the city or the wild origins of their oddest collectibles. Whether you’re a design lover, a nostalgia fan, or just looking for a fun way to kill an hour, this place never disappoints. 

The Las Vegas Festival Grounds Murals 

You don’t need to buy a festival ticket to appreciate the bold murals encircling the Las Vegas Festival Grounds near Sahara Avenue. These huge, eye-popping works line the fence, turning a simple walk into a free outdoor gallery experience. 

Expect dynamic designs, tributes to music legends, and plenty of snap-worthy visuals to light up your socials. Kids love the cartoonish animals and space-age shapes; adults dig the pop-art references and hidden details you spot the closer you look. Snap some photos, compare favorites, and enjoy the extra splash of creativity right smack in the heart of Las Vegas. 

Bonanza Gift Shop: The World’s Largest (Window) Shopping

Bragging rights start at Bonanza Gift Shop, claimed as the “World’s Largest Gift Shop”—and you don’t need to break your souvenir budget to enjoy it. Step inside, and you’ll find a maze of neon magnets, wild t-shirts, feathered showgirl tiaras, and kitschy Vegas knickknacks as far as the eye can see. Stroll the aisles, snap a few (discreet) pics of your favorite novelty items, and challenge your travel buddies to find the wackiest trinket. 

Even if you’re just peeking, this spot gives you pure unfiltered Vegas flavor. The staff bring local flair and always seem happy to point out their weirdest finds or secret deals. If you’re looking for that “only in Vegas” energy—without spending a cent—this stop’s a must. 

Vintage Vegas Photo Spots on The Strip North 

Just a short stroll from the STRAT, the north end of the Strip is packed with hidden photo gems—old-school hotel signs, themed statues, and funky pieces of public art. The Sahara’s neon accents, the blinking lights atop nearby motels, and the playful Atomic Liquors sign deliver serious mid-century mood. 

Whether you’re recreating vintage vacation snapshots or just compiling your own album of Vegas oddities, these streets offer endless backdrops, especially as the neon kicks in after sunset. Snap solo shots, group selfies, or moody street scenes—the possibilities are as wild as your imagination. 

The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop Lineup 

Fans of reality TV will know Gold and Silver Pawn Shop from “Pawn Stars.” Even if you’re not in the mood to splurge on treasures, there’s plenty of free fun to be had outside: quirky lines of fans, bold murals, old-fashioned shop displays, and the buzz of people hoping to spot a star. 

Peer through the windows, marvel at the eclectic mix of memorabilia, and enjoy the lively, all-hours ambiance. If you time your visit right, you might even catch a camera crew filming or a classic car rolling past for an episode. It’s a unique taste of Vegas pop culture you’ll want to share with friends back home. 

Lucky Cat Art Trail at the Gateway Arches 

Just north of the STRAT, the Gateway Arches mark the “official” entrance to fabulous downtown Las Vegas, and a short walk beyond you’ll find an adorable mini art trail of Lucky Cat sculptures. Painted by local artists, these colorful cats pop up in the planter boxes and sidewalks leading into the downtown gateway. Each sculpture has its own quirky personality—some decked out in desert hues, others rocking classic casino motifs or even tributes to Vegas legends. 

Taking a stroll along the Lucky Cat Art Trail is the perfect way to enjoy a little fresh air with a dash of surprise and whimsy. Kids love spotting the variations, and adults get a kick out of the creative interpretations. Passersby often smile and snap quick selfies, so you’ll be in good company. This area is especially fun during the day when the details shine, but if you swing by at dusk, the nearby arches light up in all their neon glory for bonus ambiance. 

 

Las Vegas isn’t just about what you can spend—it’s also about what you can discover for free. Exploring around the Tower at the STRAT, you’ll find colorful murals, stylish retro signs, buzzing street scenes, and relaxing urban oases. You get all the flash and flair of Sin City while keeping your wallet as happy as your playlist. So lace up those walking shoes, keep your phone charged, and let the free side of Vegas take your trip to the next level! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to perfect Vegas mornings, and what to do outside the Strip. 

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Thrills in Vegas: The Ultimate Big Apple Coaster Vs Fly LINQ Showdown

Las Vegas Thrills: Which Is Right for You, The Big Apple Coaster or Fly LINQ Zipline?  Vegas is the playground of the West—where you can find world-class food, headline acts, and extreme thrill rides all in one neon-soaked evening. But here’s the real jackpot: when you want an instant adrenaline boost, should you strap into a legendary looping roller coaster or go soaring Superman-style above The Strip? The Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York-New York Hotel promises heart-pounding drops and classic coaster mayhem, while Fly LINQ Zipline lifts you skyward for a breezy ride over bubbling fountains, bustling foot traffic and those eye-popping Las Vegas views. Let’s break down the pros, thrills and swoon-worthy moments for each, so you can plan your perfect Vegas day (or night!)—plus tips on eating, snapping the best pics, and everything in between.  The Lowdown  The Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Classic steel coaster running through a replica New York skyline.  Top speed: 67 mph, drop: 144 feet.  Loops, twists, and stunning Strip views.  Located at New York-New York Hotel & Casino.  Must be 54 inches tall.  Fly LINQ Zipline:  The first and only zipline on The Strip.  Riders soar 12 stories above LINQ Promenade.  1,121 feet—fly seated or superhero-style.  Panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip and High Roller wheel.  Minimum weight: 60 pounds, max 300 pounds.  Sounds Good, Tell Me More...  Okay, So Which One is Most Impressive?  We’re comparing adrenaline with altitude here, and both score seriously high. The Big Apple Roller Coaster claims that rare Vegas combo: authentic white-knuckle coaster meets dazzling city lights. Those screaming loops right above The Strip? Hard to top.  Fly LINQ brings altitude magic—floating over parties and fountains, snagging unbeatable selfies mid-flight, and delivering that swoopy, hero-feeling almost anyone can love. Both give you a ‘wow, only in Vegas!’ story, and both are major head-turners for onlookers, too.  Which One is More Fun?  Ask any group, and you’ll get different answers—mostly loud ones! Love big drops, wind-whipped hair, and whooping your way through extreme twists with friends? The Big Apple is your jam. The layout keeps excitement buzzing from start to finish, and even seasoned coaster fans leave with a silly grin.  If you prefer smooth speed, sky-high flights, and showing off for your social media followers, then Fly LINQ is all about giddy fun with less of the stomach-twisting suspense. It’s a brilliant group experience—watch as riders line up next to each other, egging each other on for that superhero pose.  Honestly? You can’t lose—both rides crank up the fun meter and guarantee giggles, cheers and new legends for your group chat.  Which is More Beautiful?  Let’s talk #views. The Big Apple Coaster surrounds you with photo-worthy movie set details: skyscraper replicas, glittery neon lights, and that all-American Statue of Liberty. At night, The Strip pulses around you for a front-row seat to Vegas sparkle.  Fly LINQ delivers those rare, open-air vistas: a straight shot down the best of Vegas, with street performers, palm trees and happy crowds as your backdrop. Sunset flights are pure magic as lights flicker on, while nighttime rides give you the full, electric Strip experience in one breezy swoop.  Pick the coaster for immersive, themed detail; pick the zipline for panoramic, can’t-get-this-anywhere-else city scenery.  Which Has the Better View?  Fly LINQ steals this category (by about twelve stories). That open-air, eagle’s eye sweep of The Strip is a view most people only get in Instagram dreams. Be sure to look up as you soar—High Roller’s massive circle looms above, and you’ll spot rooftop pools and new perspectives on Vegas icons you just can’t see from the ground.  The Big Apple Roller Coaster offers fun perspectives too—swooping past New York City landmarks and giving you a strobe-lit look at The Strip. For high drama heights, though, soaring wins every time.  How Do I Get There?  The Big Apple Roller Coaster:  New York-New York Hotel & Casino, 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd.  Walkable from anywhere central on The Strip.  Uber/Lyft and taxis drop off at the front drive.  For public transport, take The Deuce bus along The Strip—get off at Tropicana stop, cross the street, and you’re there!  Monorail users: closest stop is MGM Grand, then a quick walk.  Fly LINQ Zipline:  LINQ Promenade, 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd.  Heart of The Strip, between Flamingo and LINQ hotels.  Easily walkable from most hotels.  The Deuce also stops right outside on Las Vegas Blvd; look for the LINQ stop.  Monorail: hop off at Flamingo/Caesars Palace, then stroll down the outdoor LINQ Promenade straight to the base.  Either way, these rides are dead center in Vegas fun, so you’ll waste no time getting there.  Best Choice for Families, Couples or Friends  Families:  If your group includes thrill-seeking tweens and teens (and everyone meets height/weight requirements), both attractions will win raves. The roller coaster brings a carnival spirit; the zipline offers “look, Ma, no hands!” excitement. Some younger kids may feel more confident on the zipline since the ride is smooth and quick and less ‘wild’ than a coaster.  Couples:  Fly LINQ sets up perfect date-night vibes—fly side by side and then stroll to dinner, all in the heart of The Strip. But there’s real romance in screaming together through a loop-de-loop, especially with neon lights twinkling at dusk on the coaster.  Friends:  Both are gold mines for group selfies, wild stories and double-dare trash talk. Love a little competition? Challenge your crew to ride both—or race down Fly LINQ in superhero formation. For larger groups, Fly LINQ lets up to 10 zip at once —so everyone gets in on the action together. On the other hand, the Big Apple Roller Coaster’s tandem seating is prime for a shared laugh, shriek, or even a perfectly timed group photo mid-loop. Both deliver that “did we just do that?” moment to bond over long after the ride ends.  I’ve Got Fidgety Kids to Entertain – Which Has More ‘Hands On’ Activities?  The Big Apple Roller Coaster will make young thrill-seekers’ day—and the adventure extends beyond the track itself. Right next door, the Big Apple Arcade is packed with games, claw machines, and win-a-prize fun, making it an easy spot to let off steam, compete for high scores, or simply keep fidgety hands busy while grownups enjoy some gaming or a quick coffee. The carnival atmosphere means families can enjoy a combo of arcade classics and modern games—easily filling an afternoon.  Fly LINQ’s focus is the main event, but the LINQ Promenade is a treasure trove for wandering families. Before or after your flight, hop into the quirky shops, check out the cupcake vending machine at Sprinkles, or try life-size games at Brooklyn Bowl. Street performers and kids’ pop-up activities are often on hand, so there’s always something unexpected to keep little ones amused.  What’s the Accessibility Like?  Both attractions do a great job welcoming all guests, though each has its quirks. The Big Apple Roller Coaster features elevators for step-free access to the station and attentive staff ready to help guests with mobility concerns. Wheelchair users can reach the load platform, but riders do need to transfer from a wheelchair to the coaster seat (staff can assist). Service animals aren’t allowed on the ride—plan accordingly.  Fly LINQ Zipline boasts elevator access to both launch and landing towers. Team members are pros at helping all guests feel safe and secure, and the open design makes accessing the seating harness straightforward. Riders need to stand briefly to be harnessed in, and there are weight/height restrictions to keep things safe. As with the coaster, service animals must sit this one out.  Both offer detailed accessibility info online and staff happy to answer questions so every visitor can plan ahead with peace of mind.  Best Lunch Spots Nearby?  Ready for some tasty refueling? Both locations are right smack in foodie heaven. Here’s a shortlist for every taste and budget:  New York-New York Area:  Tom’s Urban: American classics with a Vegas twist, outdoor Strip-facing seating, and crazy good “Big Fat Bacon” BLTs.  Shake Shack: Beloved for burgers and frozen custard milkshakes—grab a spot in the sun and people-watch.  Chin Chin: Laid-back, family-friendly spot for Chinese staples and dim sum. Their orange chicken is a fan favorite.  America: Open 24/7, this casual diner does it all—try the chicken fried steak or stack of blueberry pancakes if you’re riding early.  Directly on LINQ Promenade:  Flour & Barley: Brick-oven pizzas with bold toppings (hello, truffle mushroom!) and a lovely outdoor patio.  Yard House: Over 100 beers on tap, lively crowd, and a menu built for sharing—grab the chicken nachos or pepper-crusted burger.  Tilted Kilt: Sports bar vibe, heaping plates of wings and pub food. Extra points for live music on weekends.  Maxie’s: Breakfast all day, dazzling milkshakes, and giant cinnamon buns—dreams do come true.  If you’re on a budget, hit up In-N-Out Burger right across from NY-NY for a classic West Coast bite, or snag pizza by the slice at Haute Doggery on the Promenade.  Looking for a quick grab-and-go? Head to the Sprinkles cupcake ATM for a sweet treat or Linq’s Hash House a Go Go for their famous oversized pancakes and farm-to-table eats.  Where Are the Best Photo Opportunities?  Bring your camera—these rides are Insta-gold.  The Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Snap a pre-ride selfie with the hotel’s replica Statue of Liberty—the scale and setting will fool your friends back home.  Station staff sometimes catch and sell mid-air action shots, so bring your wildest faces for a souvenir!  Sunset offers the ultimate golden glow on the coaster as the Strip lights begin to sizzle.  Fly LINQ Zipline:  Have a friend snap your flight from below as you zoom overhead—the action shot possibilities (cape optional) are endless.  Get a selfie with the High Roller in the background at the launch platform.  Late afternoon and dusk are unbeatable, as the Strip glows and the Promenade’s neon comes to life—perfect lighting, guaranteed likes.  Pro tip: For both spots, polarized sunglasses help manage the bright Vegas sun—and don’t forget a wrist strap or lanyard if you plan to take GoPro video during your adventure.  We’re Finished and Thirsty – Is There a Decent Bar in the Area?  Absolutely! Vegas doesn’t leave you dry.  Near The Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Nine Fine Irishmen: Cozy Victorian pub with live bands and some of the finest pints and whiskey flights around. Try the Black & Tan, or splash out with a proper Irish Coffee.  The Chocolate Bar (inside NY-NY): Glitzy but welcoming, famed for their chocolate martinis—sweet, decadent, and a Vegas must-try.  Right on the LINQ Promenade:  O’Sheas: An affordable favorite, this lively spot offers beer pong, great craic, and crowd-pleasing Irish stouts. Don’t skip the frozen Irish coffee here.  Chayo Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar: Go for the signature margaritas or a spicy jalapeno cucumber cocktail—plus killer Strip balcony views.  High rollers, check out the VISTA Cocktail Lounge for creative mixology with LED skyline views, or grab a sky-high tipple aboard the High Roller observation wheel itself, where in-cabin open bars are a thing!  We’re Finished and Thirsty – Is There a Decent Bar in the Area?  Absolutely! Vegas doesn’t leave you dry.  Near The Big Apple Roller Coaster:  Nine Fine Irishmen: Cozy Victorian pub with live bands and some of the finest pints and whiskey flights around. Try the Black & Tan, or splash out with a proper Irish Coffee.  The Chocolate Bar (inside NY-NY): Glitzy but welcoming, famed for their chocolate martinis—sweet, decadent, and a Vegas must-try.  Right on the LINQ Promenade:  O’Sheas: An affordable favorite, this lively spot offers beer pong, great craic, and crowd-pleasing Irish stouts. Don’t skip the frozen Irish coffee here.  Chayo Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar: Go for the signature margaritas or a spicy jalapeno cucumber cocktail—plus killer Strip balcony views.  High rollers, check out the VISTA Cocktail Lounge for creative mixology with LED skyline views, or grab a sky-high tipple aboard the High Roller observation wheel itself, where in-cabin open bars are a thing!  Any Other Good Stuff Nearby?  Big Apple Roller Coaster vicinity:  Hershey’s Chocolate World: Indulge your sweet tooth with custom treats, a massive statue of the Statue of Liberty made from chocolate, and endless Hershey’s merch.  The Park: Open-air promenade blending lush gardens, public art, and terrific people-watching, leading to T-Mobile Arena—spot free concerts, pop-up art and shaded benches just steps from NY-NY.  MGM Grand Lion Habitat: A free stroll through the MGM Grand’s former lion habitat tunnel (no cats now, but classic Vegas photo-ops).  Fly LINQ neighborhood:  High Roller Observation Wheel: One of the world’s tallest, offering sweeping Strip panoramas and a happy hour cabin.  Brooklyn Bowl: Concerts, retro bowling lanes and southern-inspired eats—it’s one of the funkiest venues in town.  The LINQ Promenade Fountains: Synced music shows run frequently—grab a gelato and watch the water dance.  Flamingo Habitat: Visit the free wildlife exhibit at the Flamingo hotel, where pink flamingos, koi, and turtles play in lush pools.  Pro tips:  Locals love grabbing a frozen cocktail (or $2 beer) from the promenade stands for a ‘walktail’ between attractions.  Early evening visits to both areas offer shorter lines, gentler sun, and prime people-watching.  Round-Up: So, Which Adventure Wins?  Here’s the scoop: Whether your perfect Vegas thrill involves sky-high swoops above the LINQ or looping and diving high above a mini Manhattan, both The Big Apple Roller Coaster and Fly LINQ deliver only-in-Vegas memories. Choose the coaster if you crave action-packed loops; go for the zipline if you’re after sky-high vistas and the stories that come with soaring over Las Vegas.  And the best part? With Go City®, you don’t need to choose! Bundle both into your sightseeing and SAVE—time, money, and a whole lot of hassle. You get more adventure for less, and can tick off the city’s best attractions, all with one easy pass.  So, get ready: grab your Go City® pass, pick your crew, and prepare for a Vegas thrill ride—or flight—like no other!    Enjoyed this? Check out the best birthday bashes on the Strip, and discover how to the make the most of Pride in the city. 
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Thanksgiving in Las Vegas: Feast, Fun, and Fabulous Memories

So you’re planning Thanksgiving in Las Vegas—let us assure you, this city knows how to throw a party, holiday or not! Whether you crave endless turkey, dazzling shows, or a new twist on family traditions, there’s something for every flavor of festive spirit in the Entertainment Capital of the World. We’re here to guide you from jaw-dropping Strip experiences to decadent dinners and quirky events that blend Vegas glamour with cozy holiday nostalgia. Ready to make this Thanksgiving one to remember? Let’s break down where to go, what to see, and where to loosen your belt for dessert.  Thanksgiving wins in Las Vegas:  The High Roller Observation Wheel  KA by Cirque du Soleil  The Mob Museum  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Madame Tussauds  Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  Feast at Buddy V’s Ristorante  Take a scenic hike with Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes  Minus5 Ice Bar at the Venetian  Festive lights and fountain shows at Bellagio  High Roller Observation Wheel: Turkey with a View  Let’s start at the top—nearly 550 feet above the Strip, to be exact. Nothing beats watching the sun set over Las Vegas on Thanksgiving from the High Roller Observation Wheel. Friends, families, and couples fill the roomy pods, each one buzzy with laughter and anticipation. The slow, gentle rotation gives you panoramic views of city lights, the distant desert, and all the glimmer Vegas is famous for.  The vibe is fun, social, and festive. As the city sparkles and bursts of color dance across the skyline, you’ll feel both swept away and right at home. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your year and start a new Thanksgiving tradition—selfies highly encouraged! Plus, if you time it right, you could raise a toast at golden hour for that one-of-a-kind Vegas photo op.  The Mob Museum: A Quirky Slice of History  If your holiday crew loves stories, why not spice up Thanksgiving with the gripping tales at The Mob Museum? This downtown destination has atmosphere in spades, set in a neoclassical courthouse loaded with real-life drama. Interactive exhibits pull you right into the rise and fall of mobsters, their speakeasy hideouts, and the lawmen who changed the game.  It’s fun for curious adults and older kids alike—everyone ends up with a new favorite piece of trivia to share over pumpkin pie. Be sure to check out the museum’s basement speakeasy bar, where you can sip a Prohibition-inspired cocktail and toast to having a Thanksgiving that’s wild, weird, and totally memorable.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Treat Yourself  Thanksgiving isn’t just about the main event—it’s about savoring every moment, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe delivers in droves. Just a skip from the High Roller, this colorful, airy cafe will get you in the holiday spirit with its creative desserts and robust coffee. Their standout? Cannoli that snaps and crunches with every bite, with smooth, sweet fillings—perfect for your post-feast sugar fix.  Sweet Sin’s playful decor, friendly baristas, and people-watching patio make it a destination in itself. If you’re dining on the go, grab a box of treats before a show or as a sweet picnic on the LINQ Promenade’s lively walkways.  Madame Tussauds: Stars, Silliness, and Selfies  Instead of sitting around the living room, why not “invite” pop stars and superheroes to your Thanksgiving celebration? Madame Tussauds lets you get up close (and a little goofy) with eerily lifelike wax figures. Pose with Elvis, swoon with Beyoncé, or snap a “family photo” with Marvel’s Spider-Man.  It’s a total mood-lifter and great for multi-generational groups—everyone can find a celebrity to fangirl/boy over. The attention to detail, themed sets, and ever-changing backdrops keep the energy high, and you’ll leave with a phone full of conversation-starting snaps for your next group text home.  Feast at Buddy V’s Ristorante: Italian Thanksgiving Done Right  Skip the kitchen clean-up and head to Buddy V’s Ristorante at the Venetian for a family-style Thanksgiving feast. The menu has all the hits—roasted turkey paired with Italian classics like sausage stuffing, roasted squash, and pillowy-soft focaccia. Their signature desserts (we’re partial to the classic cannoli and luscious tiramisu) hit the nostalgic comfort-food sweet spot.  The décor is festive and homey, with a touch of old-country glam. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over the gondolas below—a quirky Vegas touch. Whether you’re a party of two or ten, Buddy V’s balances warmth, flair, and flavor better than most home tables.  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes: Turkey Burn in the Desert  Trade the couch for the canyons! Las Vegas sits at the doorstep of Nevada’s most beautiful desert landscapes, and a guided hike with Love Hikes delivers fresh air, unforgettable views, and a sense of adventure. Their small-group treks range from gentle strolls to heart-pumping climbs, so everyone can find their perfect pace.  You’ll discover surprising natural beauty just outside the city: red rock vistas, blooming desert plants, and expansive vistas that make city worries seem miles away. Guides share stories about the history and ecology of the area, making each stop on the trail a mini adventure. You’ll return to town happily hungry for that next big meal.  Minus5 Ice Bar at the Venetian: Toast the Season—Ice Cold  Why not shake things up with a sub-zero Thanksgiving happy hour? At Minus5 Ice Bar, everything—walls, seats, glasses, and sculptures—is made of ice, kept at a bracing five degrees below freezing. Fluffy parkas and gloves keep you cozy as you sip creative cocktails under glowing neon.  It’s one of the most unique lounges in town, instantly festive and perfect for that “something different” holiday moment (plus you can finally wear that winter scarf in the desert). The photo ops are endless, laughter is constant, and the drinks are, unsurprisingly, perfectly chilled.  Festive Lights and Fountain Shows at Bellagio: Classic Holiday Magic  No Vegas trip is complete without taking in the Bellagio Fountains—but during Thanksgiving week, they get even more festive. The Bellagio’s outdoor displays sparkle with seasonal blooms, while the iconic water shows add orchestral classics and holiday motifs into the mix.  For an extra-lush treat, duck inside to view the Bellagio Conservatory’s autumn garden, bursting with towering pumpkins, golden leaves, and whimsical sculptures—it’s pure Instagram fodder and holiday spirit rolled into one. You’ll leave humming along to the music, feeling a little more thankful for time spent together, and for the sparkle that only Vegas brings.    No matter how you define the perfect Thanksgiving, Las Vegas welcomes you with open arms, delicious feasts, bucket-list adventures, and just the right mix of glitz and gratitude. Here’s to making new memories—Vegas-style!    Enjoyed this? Check out our Strip v Fremont Street head-to-head, and our picks of the best casino hotels around.  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! 
Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower
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Visiting the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck in Las Vegas – Tickets, Tips & More

The Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck is one of the most memorable and romantic things to do in Las Vegas - can you fool your friends into thinking you're in Paris?
Casey Makovich

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