Getting Around Las Vegas with Big Bus Las Vegas

By Casey Makovich
Published: July 18, 2024
stop-sign-on-street-letters-reading

The Big Bus Las Vegas Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is one of the best ways to get around and see all the top sites in Las Vegas. Big Bus provides a means of transportation to and from various points of interest along the Strip, Downtown, and beyond and features entertaining and educational information about the sites along the way. We put together a list of all the stops along the three bus routes and included several points of interest to help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in Las Vegas. Big Bus Las Vegas runs along two routes included in the Go Las Vegas Card that cover all points of interest along the Strip and Downtown. (Please note: Big Bus Las Vegas operates a third line, the Las Vegas Night tour (Green), but it is not included in the Go Las Vegas Card.) Each stop is listed below with suggested points of interest for your itinerary. Download the bus route map here, pull it up on your phone, or print it at home to follow along as you go.

Strip Route (Red) (buses run every 20-30 minutes):

  • Big Bus Tours Welcome Center
  • Circus Circus Resort & Casino (catch a free circus show, one of the many free things to do in Las Vegas)
  • Fashion Show Mall (with over 250 shops, this is a shopper's paradise)
  • Treasure Island (get off here and take some photos with your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds and grab a bite to eat at the Planet Hollywood restaurant)
  • Caesar's Palace
  • Park MGM
  • Excalibur Hotel & Casino (be sure to check out their Tournament of Kings dinner show if you're traveling with kids)
  • Welcome to Las Vegas Sign/ Harley Davidson
  • Tropicana Hotel & Casino

Old Vegas Tour Route (Blue) (buses run every 20-30 minutes):

  • Big Bus Tours Welcome Center
  • Hawaiian Marketplace (here is also where you'll find the CityCenter Fine Art Collection -- a must visit for art lovers)
  • LINQ (explore this outdoor shopping and entertainment area and then take a 30 minute ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel)
  • SLS Hotel
  • Arts & Antiques District (featuring funky shops with great finds; many will ship your purchases so you don't have to try to find a way to bring them on the plane)
  • Las Vegas Premium Outlets (an excellent shopping destination for the die-hards)
  • Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino (hop-off here to experience Fremont Street, or, take a Fremont Street Walking Tour)
  • The Mob Museum (our regional manager's favorite attraction in Las Vegas!)
  • Gold & Silver Pawn Shop (Pawn Stars)
  • Stratosphere Hotel & Casino (head to the Stratosphere Observation Deck for amazing views of downtown and the Strip)
  • Circus Circus Hotel (be sure to check out their theme park and whimsical circus acts)
las-vegas-city-map-road-network

Get discount tickets to the Big Bus Las Vegas Hop-On Hop-Off Day Tour and save up to 55% on combined admission to your choice of lots of top museums, tours, attractions, and more with a Go City Card Las Vegas Explorer Pass®.

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

vegas' strat tower at dusk
Blog

Explore the Best Free Spots Around the STRAT Tower

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  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.  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.  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! 
people taking a photo on the fremont street tour experience
Blog

Vegas in August: Your Ultimate Summer Fun Guide

August in Las Vegas is an adventure in every sense—think shimmering neon, poolside parties, dazzling shows, and endless flavors all set against those legendary desert sunsets. The summer heat only adds to the excitement, with plenty of ways to keep cool between explorations. Whether you want to float above the Strip, indulge in world-class cuisine, or discover Vegas history, we’ve rounded up the ultimate experiences guaranteed to make your August getaway as bright and bold as the city itself.  Our top things to do in Vegas in August include:  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  minus5° “Cool Experience” at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  KA by Cirque du Soleil  Madame Tussauds  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  The Neon Museum  Pool Parties & Splashy Day Clubs  High Roller Observation Wheel  There’s no better way to see Vegas shimmer than with a ride on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel. Step into an air-conditioned pod (thank you, modern technology!) and get ready for a slow, smooth ascent above the Strip. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in 360-degree views of neon lights, mountain backdrops, and maybe even spot the Bellagio fountains mid-show.  We love the High Roller for its breezy atmosphere—grab a drink if you wish, strike up new friendships with your fellow riders, and snap photos that’ll make your followers green with envy. Daytime brings sparkling desert vistas, but the skyline truly comes alive at night. In August, when the sun dips and temperatures cool, the city glows gold and pink—so romantic you might just feel inspired to propose! If you’re traveling with kids or a group, everyone’s thrilled by the panoramic ride, and the slow pace is perfect to catch your breath before the next adventure.  Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  If you think the Vegas Strip is dazzling from the ground, wait until you see it from the sky. Climb aboard a luxury helicopter for the Papillon Night Flight and watch as the city below transforms into a glittering mosaic. You’ll soar past famous landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, the Luxor Pyramid, the volcano at the Mirage—all brilliantly lit against the desert night.  There’s an undeniable thrill as you lift off. The experience is sleek and intimate, with professional pilots narrating fascinating tidbits about the skyline stretched beneath you. Whether it’s a special night out, a birthday surprise, or just the urge to do Vegas differently, this is a sure-fire way to dial up the “wow” factor and create memories long after August ends.  minus5° “Cool Experience” at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  No need to worry about August heat waves—step inside minus5°, where everything (and we mean EVERYTHING) is sculpted from ice. From the frosty bar to the intricate ice carvings, this whimsical lounge lets you chill out in Eskimo-style parkas while sipping creative cocktails. The mood is playful and upbeat, ideal for snapping selfies with arctic backgrounds or simply enjoying the novelty of drinking from a glass made of ice.  It isn’t just a bar—it’s an immersive experience that feels like a mini polar expedition in the heart of the desert. Groove to the DJ’s soundtrack, marvel at ever-changing ice features, and embrace a frosty retreat whenever the Nevada sun feels relentless.  Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  If you’re craving vintage Vegas with a splash of modern flair, a guided stroll down Fremont Street ticks every box. Knowledgeable locals lead you past historic casinos, dazzling neon signs, and street performers who make people-watching here its own event. You’ll learn wacky anecdotes, discover tucked-away cocktail bars, and see art installations you’d never expect.  Fremont feels a world away from the Strip, delivering retro vibes and a side of Vegas that’s all color and character. The canopy light shows dazzle overhead, live music spills from every doorway, and street food smells tempt around every corner. It’s the only place in the world where you can zip-line past a million twinkling bulbs while listening to a ‘70s rock cover band.  Madame Tussauds  See yourself next to A-list celebrities, legendary musicians, and even Marvel superheroes—all under one glam Las Vegas roof. Madame Tussauds lets you strike a pose with ultra-lifelike figures: sit in the Oval Office, ride a party gondola with the Hangover crew, or challenge Shaq to a slam dunk. The attraction encourages selfies, goofiness, and unlimited celebrity encounters.  The ambiance here is energetic, with rooms flowing seamlessly from red-carpet spectacles to themed experiences straight out of pop culture. There’s no need to whisper; it’s all about fun, creativity, and a few “Wait, is that really wax?” moments. In the heat of August, this delightfully air-conditioned haven provides cool entertainment for the whole squad.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Caffeine crash or sugar craving? Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe is your answer. Tucked into the lively LINQ Promenade, this little bakery buzzes with the scent of fresh espresso and pastries. Their signature treat: the “Nutella Bomb” croissant—ultra-flaky, chocolate-stuffed and dusted with powdered sugar. If you’re leaning savory, try their breakfast tartines or a ham & cheese croissant.  The mood is lively, thanks to bright decor and plenty of patio seating. It’s perfect for a mid-morning break or pre-game snack before hitting the High Roller right next door. Don’t leave without sampling the rainbow-hued macaron selection—Instagram fans, this one’s for you.  The Neon Museum  You haven’t truly experienced Vegas until you’ve wandered through the Neon Museum’s outdoor boneyard at sunset. Dozens of vintage signs resurrect the Strip’s old-school glory, telling stories of bygone hotels, restaurants, and performers. Don’t rush! Each sign comes with unforgettable tales—some glamorous, some quirky—that reveal a side of Vegas history you never knew you needed.  Evening visits add an extra layer of magic as the museum lights up select signs to their original glow. It’s both nostalgic and wildly photogenic. If you’re a fan of history, design, or just neon in general, the museum is a treasure—and the guided tours are packed with witty insights.  Pool Parties & Splashy Day Clubs  August is pool party season, and Las Vegas delivers with next-level options. From DJ-fueled day clubs at the Strip’s luxury resorts to chill, family-friendly resort pools, you’ll find a scene to suit every mood. Picture beach balls bobbing, creative cocktails flowing, resident DJs spinning, and cabanas that make you feel like a celeb for the day.  Check out the pool at the Cosmopolitan for a lively party vibe and unbeatable views down the Strip—it’s famous for its rooftop feel and DJs who spin from noon until sunset. Over at Encore Beach Club, the energy is high, and you’ll likely find chart-topping artists at the decks. Don’t feel like going all out? Mandalay Bay’s sandy “beach” and lazy river offer a more relaxed scene, yet still bring plenty of excitement with wave pools and tropical drinks delivered right to your lounger.  Ready to plan your August Las Vegas adventure?  Vegas in August is sizzling, but it’s also the perfect time to explore the best the city has to offer—indoors, outdoors, and high above it all. Beat the heat with a frozen cocktail at minus5°, step into Vegas history at the Mob Museum, stroll through glowing neon history, or catch a nighttime helicopter view you’ll be talking about for years. From lazy pool days to thrill-seeking rides, unforgettable eats and world-class live shows, August brings it all together. So, pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and let Vegas surprise you at every turn!    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best casino hotels to call home on your Vegas adventure, and   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! 
rain on the las vegas strip
Blog

Making a Splash: Top Things to Do When It Rains in Vegas

Madame Tussauds: Snap Selfies With Superstars  Madame Tussauds Las Vegas turns a dreary day into a whirlwind of celebrity encounters. This immersive wax museum—just off the Strip—encourages you to ham it up with movie and music legends, sports heroes, and even the Vegas Rat Pack. The vibe here? Totally playful. Strike your red carpet pose next to Beyoncé, challenge Shaq at hoops, or take a selfie with Elvis (blue suede shoes optional). Kids and grownups light up at every turn—there’s something magic about getting up close and personal with supremely lifelike figures.  What sets Madame Tussauds apart is how interactive everything feels. There’s no staid museum silence: staff cheer you on, music pumps through themed rooms, and you can dress up in props for wacky photo ops. The Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience ups the ante, plunging you into blockbuster battles with wind, water, and seat-rattling effects. No need for sunshine when famous faces and special effects deliver a star-studded afternoon indoors.  Rain in Las Vegas? Sure, it’s rare, but now and then the weather surprises us. The best news: a little moisture won’t stand between you and a spectacular day in Sin City. From dazzling shows and world-class museums to quirky escape rooms and offbeat cafes, indoor Las Vegas serves up just as much sparkle as the Strip itself. So, if raindrops hit those neon lights, keep your umbrella handy and let’s dive into the city’s best and brightest indoor escapes—all promising a perfect mix of thrills, treats, laughs, and laid-back lounging.  Our favorite things to do in Las Vegas when it rains include:  Madame Tussauds  The Mob Museum  Real Bodies at Horseshoe Las Vegas  KA by Cirque du Soleil  minus5° "Cool Experience" at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  The Mob Museum  The Neon Museum  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  The Official "SAW" Escape Room  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Real Bodies at Horseshoe Las Vegas: A Fascinating Look Inside  Curious minds will be hooked by a visit to Real Bodies at Horseshoe Las Vegas. This thought-provoking exhibit delves into what makes us tick—literally. Using real human specimens, the show peels back the curtain on the inner workings of muscles, nerves, and organs. But here’s the twist: everything is presented with creative design and dramatic lighting, so even science-phobes find themselves drawn in.  It’s a must-see for trivia buffs and anyone interested in the wonders beneath our skin. Each gallery pairs fascinating anatomical details with moving stories about life and health, making the experience personal and meaningful. Ponder your humanity and resilience as you wander through rooms brimming with color, artistry, and curiosity.  KA by Cirque du Soleil: Mind-Blowing Acrobatics  If rain keeps you inside, why not let the night’s most spectacular entertainment sweep you away? KA by Cirque du Soleil, staged at the MGM Grand, is theatrical electricity—jaw-dropping stunts, an epic tale, and a custom theater tricked out with hydraulic platforms and pyrotechnics. Suspended battle scenes, flying warriors, and other-worldly spectacle create a sense of awe from the first minute.  KA is tailored for visitors seeking something extraordinary. The show blends martial arts, puppetry, martial drums, and acrobatics in a way that makes time stand still. The audience buzzes before and after, sharing favorite moments and wows. Watching it all unfold while the weather rumbles outside feels especially cozy—and unforgettable.  The Neon Museum: Classic Vegas Under Cover  Rain doesn’t mean you have to skip vintage Vegas fun. The Neon Museum offers guided tours of its glittering boneyard, where retired casino signs and neon masterpieces live on. Most of the museum is outdoors, but when the weather gets wild, the visitors’ center and special indoor exhibits become your playground.  Step inside the restored La Concha Motel lobby to admire artifacts, video displays, and interactive exhibits sharing the colorful stories behind each sign. If the weather lets up, night tours (with umbrellas provided!) let you see the outdoor yard aglow—all mood, all nostalgia, and perfect for those atmospheric, rain-slicked photos.  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art: World-Class Inspiration  Nestled inside the always-glamorous Bellagio, this petite but mighty gallery offers rotating exhibitions of masterworks—from Impressionist paintings to contemporary installations. The vibe is delightfully peaceful: soft lighting, tranquil music, and plush benches invite you to linger. Staff greet you with insight and enthusiasm, making every visitor feel like an art insider.  The Gallery of Fine Art is perfect for a mellow break between high-octane Vegas activities. You’ll leave feeling more cultured (and a lot drier), with new conversation starters for your next lounge or dinner.  The Official "SAW" Escape Room: Outwit the Storm…and Jigsaw  If thunder has you pining for thrills, The Official “SAW” Escape Room delivers a bolt of adrenaline. Based on the legendary film franchise, this escape experience plunges you into a nightmarish series of themed rooms, each chock-full of puzzles, clues, and suspense. The vibe is pure cinematic excitement, with actors, props, and special effects keeping you on your toes.  Teams work together under pressure, racing both the clock and Jigsaw’s fiendish creativity. It’s part theater, part mental gym, and fully unforgettable. Whether you escape or not, the laughs, shrieks, and cheers are pure Vegas fun—a stormy day has never gone by so fast.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Clouds and Comfort Food  When rain calls for treats, Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade answers big time. This contemporary cafe specializes in European-style pastries, creative desserts, and expertly brewed coffee. The glass-walled space is bright, cheerful, and smells like heaven—chocolate croissants, tiramisu, and “unicorn” eclairs top the highlight reel.  Grab an espresso and a signature treat (try the raspberry pistachio torte!), then sink into a cozy corner with friends or your new favorite Vegas read. The marble-topped tables, local art on the walls, and friendly staff sets an inviting mood, making even the greyest day feel golden. You’ll leave sugar-fueled and ready to take on whatever the Strip throws your way next.    From celebrity selfies and mobster tales to fine art, escape games, and sweet treats, Las Vegas shines indoors—rain or shine. Next time the sky opens up, just take things under cover: you’ll find story-worthy adventures (and dozens of cozy corners) waiting for you around every turn.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Vegas, 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! 

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.