Las Vegas Itinerary – 3 Days in Vegas for First Timers

Our guide to spending three days in Vegas.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Las Vegas Skyline

Spending a few days in Las Vegas? See the best of this delightful city and experience all the highlights with our 3 days in Las Vegas itinerary. Jam-packed with classic Vegas sights and attractions, this popular 3-day itinerary encompasses a wide variety of things to do to showcase the best the city has to offer in a limited amount of time.

This 3-day itinerary includes:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Sightseeing Tour
  • Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens (free!)
  • Fountains at Bellagio (free!)
  • Show at the V Theater
  • Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
  • High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ
  • Eiffel Tower Experience
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour

Day 1, Stop #1: Big Bus Las Vegas

If you really want to see what Las Vegas is all about, then you have to take a Hop-On Hop-Off tour with Big Bus. They offer the most informative sightseeing tours around, with insider tips and historical trivia for all to enjoy. Best of all, as it's a hop-on hop-off tour, if you find something you just have to explore during your travels, you can disembark and spend some time checking it out.

The Classic Tour takes 2.5 hours if you stay on the bus for the entire time, so it packs in a lot to see! Be sure to check out our helpful Hop-On Hop-Off guide for top tips to make the most of your visit.

Getting In: Big Bus Las Vegas Sightseeing Tour tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas pass.

Big bus

Stop #2: Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Check out the seasonal displays at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, prepared by a team of 140 horticulturalists. Bring your camera for memorable photo opportunities, displays that include incredible flower formations, and water features that are nothing short of mesmerizing.

Getting in: Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are free to enter.

Bellagio Conservatory

Stop #3: Fountains at Bellagio

Next, stroll over to the Fountains of Bellagio for a beautiful musical water show. This stunning water show features choreographed fountains timed to famous musical numbers, from concert opera and classical to Broadway tunes, for an always entertaining show. The fountains are a quirky, classic Las Vegas attraction and an unmissable stop on your itinerary.

Getting in: Fountains at Bellagio are free to watch.

Bellagio fountains

Stop #4: Catch a show at the V Theater

Don’t leave Las Vegas, the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” without seeing one of the shows that uphold the city’s title. Head to the V Theater to catch one of their award-winning performances. Owned by the famed Las Vegas producer David Saxe, the V Theater is home to some of the most entertaining shows, including VEGAS! The Show; V - The Ultimate Variety Show; The Mentalist; Zombie Burlesque; and several more!

There are plenty of kid-friendly options, too like pet-based shows and comedy shows. Each show creatively pays tribute to the spectacle that is Las Vegas’ unique entertainment culture.

V Theater

Day 2 Stop #1: Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Be sure to work some celebrity sightings into your Las Vegas itinerary. Head to Madame Tussauds for an interactive and entertaining experience with all your favorite movie stars, athletes, celebrities, and more. Pose for the paparazzi with Lady Gaga, relive a crazy Vegas night with Bradley Cooper, sing on stage for Simon Cowell, and fight crime alongside Nick Fury.

Taking pictures with the wax statues is highly encouraged, and props are provided that visitors can use for unforgettable (and highly believable) photos. Cameras at the ready - be prepared to fool your Instagram followers!

Getting In: Madame Tussauds Las Vegas tickets are included on all Las Vegas passes.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Stop #2: High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ

Take an afternoon spin on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel – 550ft above the ground! Your 30-minute ride will feel like it ends too soon, as you soak up amazing panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip and the scenery below. Don't forget to keep your phone or camera charged for this attraction!

Ready to get the party started? Grab a drink from the High Roller’s wheelhouse bar before boarding. Afterwards, there are plenty of options to explore in the LINQ area, whether you're after food and beverages or shopping. For our High Roller top tips, read our helpful guide.

Getting in: High Roller tickets are included on all Las Vegas passes.

High Roller

Stop #3: Eiffel Tower Experience

Visit Paris without the transatlantic flight! Head to the Paris Las Vegas Hotel - their Eiffel Tower Experience is just like setting foot into a recreated Parisian cityscape. Ascend to the top of their Eiffel Tower (46 storeys above ground level), and then stroll through replicas of the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and more.

It's a great way to experience the grandeur and opulence of Las Vegas casino culture, and makes for some awesome photos to fool your friends that you're in Paris too. Here's our guide to the Eiffel Tower Experience before your trip. It's full of top tips and ideas to help you make the most of your visit.

Getting In: Eiffel Tower Experience tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas pass.

Las Vegas Eiffel

Day 3 Stop #1: Grand Canyon South Rim Tour

You simply can't visit Las Vegas without taking the time to see the natural wonders nearby. Take a guided bus tour out to the Grand Canyon, where you'll see many of the South Rim's signature spots. Visit the historic (but still operational) Grand Canyon Railway, Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and many sites in Grand Canyon Village, where you can pick up souvenirs.

You'll pass by the Hoover Dam on the way, a nice included extra where you can get great photos, and pass over the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, located adjacent to the Dam itself.

This tour will take the entire day (from approximately 5am to 7.30pm), so sit back and relax on your ride out to the Canyon aboard a luxury motorcoach. You have three hours to explore the National Park itself, so make the most of your chance to see this natural wonder. The Bright Angel Trail is a good choice for active folks, and provides excellent photo opportunities.

Getting In: Grand Canyon South Rim Tour tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3, 4, and 5 day Las Vegas All-Inclusive passes.

 

Grand Canyon South Rim

Let’s Recap

This 3 days in Las Vegas itinerary features a variety of activities and attractions that cover all the best Las Vegas highlights. The itinerary is jam-packed with fun but features a schedule that’s easy to do in three days. 

🗓️ Spending less time in Las Vegas? We’ve also put together a sample 1 day itinerary and a weekend in Vegas itinerary.

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Discover our full line-up of Las Vegas attractions from Bellagio Fountains to the High Roller Observation Wheel.

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Wild for Winter: The Best December Experiences in Las Vegas

Las Vegas in December dials up the sparkle. Whether you’re visiting for world-class shows, twinkling light displays, or just hoping to trade snow boots for something a little more fabulous, there’s an energy here that’s electric—even when the desert temperatures cool down. Love a bit of holiday magic? Craving vibrant nightlife or family-friendly adventures? Sin City’s got you covered every day this month. So, grab a scarf (but leave the gloves at home), and get ready for some of our favorite Las Vegas December experiences that make this city unforgettable.  Our favorite Las Vegas December experiences include:  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  The Neon Museum  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  KA by Cirque du Soleil  minus5° "Cool Experience" at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  High Roller Observation Wheel: See the Holidays from New Heights  The holidays look extra special when you’re 550 feet above the neon-lit Strip, and nowhere serves up that view like the High Roller Observation Wheel. Step into your cozy glass pod—heated for those chillier December nights—and watch as Las Vegas unwraps its festive side right beneath you. Each rotation gives you a full panorama: bright casino marquees, glittering decorations, and, sometimes, a glimpse of distant snow-capped mountains. We especially love riding at sunset when the city glows gold, or later in the evening as everything lights up like a giant holiday village.  December is the perfect time for this view: cooler air equals crisp, clear vistas, making photos pop and the city feel extra magical. Want to amp up the celebration? Book a Happy Half Hour cabin and toast the season with drinks as you spin. Whether you’re traveling with friends, making it a date night, or exploring with family, the High Roller offers a fresh perspective—literally—on all things Vegas in December.  The Mob Museum: Unearth Sin City’s Wild Side  Love a bit of intrigue with your history? The Mob Museum in downtown Las Vegas is both fascinating and utterly fun—especially when you want a break from the busy strip. Set in a gorgeous 1930s courthouse, this immersive attraction lets you step into the world of speakeasies, bootleggers, and notorious gangsters. Interactive exhibits pack in real stories (and some juicy gossip), while hands-on experiences like the Crime Lab and the Underground Speakeasy give you a taste of the action.  In December, the Mob Museum gets into the spirit with themed cocktails and seasonal events—perfect for those looking to sip a little holiday cheer in a place unlike any other. It’s equal parts educational and thrilling; you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Las Vegas’ storied past and maybe a few conversation starters for your next holiday party.  The Neon Museum: Vintage Vegas, Lit Up for the Holidays  Nothing says Vegas nostalgia like the Neon Museum: a boneyard of rescued neon signs, all shimmering in their retro glory. December brings a whimsical touch to this already dreamy spot: the chill in the air, the glow of vintage bulbs, and often some holiday-themed tours or family-friendly events. The museum’s outdoor yard displays dazzling signs from casinos and motels gone by—all set against a crisp winter sky.  Guided tours share quirky stories behind each sign, from celebrities to scandals, so you’ll leave as both an expert and an admirer. Our favorite time to visit? After dark, when hundreds of bulbs flicker to life, the atmosphere is festive, and the city’s history feels almost alive. Bonus: If you’re visiting with kids, the museum often adds a few merry surprises around the holidays.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour: Easy December Exploring  December in Las Vegas strikes the perfect balance: comfortable cool weather and fewer crowds. What better way to explore than letting someone else do the driving? The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour is your ticket to all the sights—from the Strip’s most famous attractions to quirky downtown gems. Warm up on the upper deck, camera in hand, as your guide shares zippy tales and local secrets. You can hop off at spots like the Bellagio, Fremont Street, or the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign, then catch the next bus when you’re ready to roll.  It’s the best way to cover ground without worrying about parking (or chilly winds). In December, you get holiday lights, festive window displays, and maybe even some snow-dusted rooftops in the distance. Wrap up, pick a comfy seat, and see Las Vegas at your own pace.  KA by Cirque du Soleil: An Epic Adventure Indoors  If you’re looking to balance outdoor adventures with something spectacular inside, head to KA by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand. This isn’t just a show—it’s an all-out sensory spectacular, combining gravity-defying acrobatics, spellbinding stagecraft, and a heart-thumping story. The massive moving stage has to be seen to be believed, and even seasoned Vegas visitors find themselves wide-eyed as the drama unfolds.  Why do we love it for December? KA’s immersive world is the perfect place to escape a cool desert evening, and it never fails to put you in a festive mood. From epic battles to tender moments, every act feels like a gift—no wrapping required.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Festive Treats & Cozy Vibes  No December adventure in Vegas is complete without happy taste buds, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe always delivers. This tempting spot at the LINQ Promenade serves up delicious desserts, cheerful lattes, and Instagram-worthy pastries. Their cannoli are legendary and the seasonal treats—think peppermint mocha cupcakes or gingerbread macarons—make for perfect holiday indulgences.  The ambiance strikes a balance between modern cool and sweetly cozy, with bistro seating and lots of natural light. It’s the perfect place to regroup after riding the High Roller or meandering through the promenade’s festive light displays. One bite, and you’ll see why Sweet Sin is a crowd favorite—especially in December.    One of the best things? The Conservatory is completely free to visit, and the atmosphere feels magical (and a bit less hectic) in the mornings or late    Enjoyed this? Check out how to celebrate a birthday on the Strip, and discover how to make Pride in Vegas a memorable one.  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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April in Las Vegas: 10 Experiences for Every Kind of Visitor

Las Vegas in April? You’ve picked a winner. The city shakes off the last dustings of winter, temperatures warm up, and every sidewalk buzzes with energy. Pool parties heat up, shows ramp up, and every corner offers something new—without the sweltering summer crowds. Whether you’re here to ride, hike, eat, party or just soak up the crazy-cool atmosphere, we’ve rounded up the experiences that make April one of the best times to visit. So slip into your shades, charge that phone, and let’s make your Vegas spring adventure legendary.  Our top things to do in Las Vegas in April include:  The High Roller Observation Wheel  Fly LINQ Zipline  The Mob Museum  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes  Pool party season  Neon Museum  Fremont Street Downtown Walking Tour  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Big Apple Roller Coaster  KA by Cirque du Soleil  The High Roller Observation Wheel: See Springtime Vegas from Above  Let’s kick things off 550 feet in the air! The High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel, is where you’ll score unbeatable 360-degree views of the Strip, the mountains, and the glimmering desert—especially delightful in April’s warm, clear weather. Step into a roomy glass pod (no squishing needed, plenty of space to take those panoramic selfies) and enjoy a 30-minute slow rotation as Vegas sprawls below you.  Every time we ride, it feels festive—there’s music, a sense of giddy anticipation, and on select pods, an open bar for happy hour with a twist. At sunset, the sky turns brilliant pink and gold, and at night, the Strip lights up like a mega neon playground. Families love spotting landmarks while friends toast to springtime adventures. It’s the ultimate way to kick-start a day or cap off a night out, and the sheer size of the views will have you grinning from ear to ear.  The Mob Museum: Uncover Sin City’s Wild Past  Vegas might be built for fun, but its history is even wilder than its party scene. At The Mob Museum, right in the heart of downtown, you’ll get the inside scoop on the city’s notorious past—think Prohibition bootleggers, casino intrigue, secret tunnels and even a real courtroom where mobsters once faced justice.  Every exhibit is sleek, highly entertaining, and fully immersive. Stand inside a recreated speakeasy, test your skills at cracking safes, and pore over artifacts that could star in a gangster flick. The museum’s storytelling is clever, interactive, and always draws you in with tales stranger than fiction. If true crime, Vegas lore, or larger-than-life personalities are your thing, this place delivers suspense, laughs, and plenty of “I never knew that!” moments. Grab a creative cocktail at their basement speakeasy and you’ll practically feel the history come alive.  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes: Explore the Wild Side  April is prime time for exploring the natural beauty surrounding Las Vegas. Ready to swap neon lights for red rock vistas? Love Hikes lets you escape the city in style—without worrying about getting lost or missing the prettiest trails. Their guided adventures take you through spots like Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon, with all sorts of routes for every energy level.  Expect knowledgeable, friendly guides who know the desert’s coolest secrets: petroglyphs, hidden caves, and photo spots that will thrill your Instagram followers. The April sun is gentle and wildflowers start popping up—so you get the best of the desert without summer’s sizzle. Whether you’re a fitness buff or prefer a more leisurely stroll, you’re almost guaranteed that ahhh moment—just you, the rocks, and the endless blue sky.  Pool Party Season: The Ultimate Spring Splash  Let’s be honest—April is when Vegas’s legendary pool party scene truly splashes back to life. Think world-class DJs, palm trees rustling in the breeze, and vibrant crowds ready to soak up those first rays of real spring sunshine. Dayclubs like Encore Beach Club and Wet Republic turn their pools into open-air festivals, complete with cool cocktails, floaties and all-out summer vibes (minus the July mega-heat).  Why is April the sweet spot? You skip the sweaty midsummer rush but still get plenty of sunshine and energy. Make new friends in the shallow end, dance under the cabanas, and sip something fruity while the Strip glitters just beyond the fence. At these parties, the dress code is all about fun—don’t be surprised if you spot inflatable unicorns or dance battles near the DJ booth. You’ll float out sun-kissed, refreshed and full of spring-in-Vegas stories.  Downtown Fremont Street Walking Tour: The Heartbeat of Old Vegas  Want to understand what makes old-school Vegas tick? Join a walking tour around downtown and Fremont Street, where the city’s storied past and electrifying present collide. Local guides crack jokes, share juicy tidbits, and lead you from neon-lit casinos and street performers to quirky art corners and hidden cocktail bars.  It’s one part sightseeing, one part interactive storytelling, and twice as much fun when the weather’s as inviting as it is in April. You’ll see the legendary Viva Vision light show overhead, catch the zipliners whizzing above the crowds, and—if you’re feeling brave—snap a pic with a showgirl or a sci-fi Elvis. Fremont Street’s energy is contagious and no two tours are ever quite alike; you’ll come away feeling like a true Vegas insider.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at LINQ Promenade: Sugar Rush, Vegas Style  Need a midday pick-me-up? April is absolute perfection for patio dining, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe is one of the tastiest stops on LINQ Promenade. This spot is famous for its European-inspired sweets and inventive indulgences—think rainbow-hued macarons, decadent tiramisu, and doughnuts with a Vegas twist.  We love the bright, playful interiors dotted with whimsical decor, but when the sun’s shining, the real draw is the outdoor tables, perfect for people-watching. Don’t miss their silky-smooth Italian gelato, or signature cocktails like the ultra-refreshing Prosecco Spritz. Whether you’re refueling after a shopping spree or snagging treats en route to your next adventure, Sweet Sin makes your break feel like a celebration.  Big Apple Roller Coaster: Scream Through a New York Minute  Craving an adrenaline rush with a sky-high view? The Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York-New York sends you racing past a miniature Manhattan at 67 mph, swooping and swirling above the Strip. This is classic Vegas excitement: big drops, upside-down loops and unique corkscrews that let you shriek to your heart’s content. You’ll spot the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building replicas just before the big drop launches you over the faux skyline—plus, the desert sun and April breeze feel amazing as you zip through the open air.  What makes this coaster extra special is its playful New York theme: yellow taxi-inspired cars, killer photo ops, and a soundtrack of laughter echoing down the Strip. If you’re traveling with friends or family, you’ll have a blast arguing over who had the funniest mid-ride expression. It’s wild, it’s cheerful, and it’s only-in-Vegas fun—ideal for releasing your inner kid or kicking off an adventurous night out.  KA by Cirque du Soleil: Epic Spectacle, Vegas-Style  Las Vegas does live shows like nowhere else, and ‘KA’ at MGM Grand is pure entertainment on the grandest scale. This isn’t just acrobatics—expect a mind-blowing fusion of martial arts, aerial stunts, puppetry and jaw-dropping stage wizardry. The audience surrounds an epic ever-evolving stage, with battle scenes and balletic feats playing out overhead, sideways, and even in midair.  What keeps us coming back to KA? It’s the sense of wonder—you never quite know where to look next as warriors duel on a vertical stage or dive into a sea of swirling smoke. Costumes shimmer, the music pulses, and by the time the gigantic fireballs shoot up, you know you’re seeing something unforgettable. ‘KA’ brings you into its spellbinding story from the first moment, making it a great night out for circus fans, theater lovers, or anyone eager for a break from the dance floor. Book ahead if you can; April seats often fill fast.    April in Las Vegas feels like one giant celebration: the weather is gorgeous, everything’s open, and every day grooves with special energy. Whether you’re soaring above the crowds, dancing by the pool, or exploring fascinating history, this city never stops surprising you. Here’s to your best Vegas trip yet—see you on the Strip!    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to Vegas at night, and how to get from the airport to the Strip hassle-free.   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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The best things to do in Las Vegas in October

Sky-high Vegas views, hockey season, spooky Halloween goings-on and more.
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