Things to Do in Las Vegas in Summer - Attractions, Activities & More

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a hot destination in the summer – both literally and figuratively. If you’re planning a visit and looking for things to do in Las Vegas in the summer, check out our list of the top attractions and activities going on this year, including:

  • Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
  • Hop-on Hop-off Las Vegas Tour
  • Hoover Dam Tour
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour
  • LINQ Promenade & High Roller Observation Wheel
  • Local Summer Festivals

Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in Las Vegas 4th of July Weekend. If you are in Sin City for Labor Day, here are some things to do in Las Vegas Labor Day Weekend.

Save on Summertime Activities

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Las Vegas Card. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 60% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all Las Vegas tourist passes, attractions and prices. Please note, some of these special Summer events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Las Vegas Card.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

If you're looking for a fun museum to take the kids to, or just an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon while soaking up some culture, visit Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. This iconic wax museum is filled with informative exhibits and fascinating replicas of famous individuals from many areas of public life. Some of their featured exhibits include "Viva Las Vegas," "The Hangover Experience," "Marvel Superheroes," and more. Getting In: Madame Tussauds Las Vegas tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Las Vegas Tour

bus-interior-straight-front-rear-view

If you're new to the city this summer, then you should seriously consider a ride on Big Bus Las Vegas. This informative tour will give you the ins and outs of the city's most iconic cultural sites, from famous casinos to landmarks and beyond. The flexibility of a hop-on hop-off option can't be underestimated, either -- it's perfect for those spontaneous summer afternoons when you find a restaurant or bar that strikes your fancy. Getting In: Big Bus Las Vegas tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Hoover Dam Tour

hoover-dam-close-shot-lake

Looking to get out of the city and into the gorgeous southwestern desert? Take a bus trip out to the Hoover Dam and tour this iconic architectural marvel. Take a guided tour to avoid the hassle of driving yourself, and enjoy an informative excursion to this signature attraction. You'll also enjoy mini-tours of Henderson, NV and Boulder City while en route -- a pretty great deal! Do keep in mind that summer is one of the busiest times to visit the Hoover Dam, so expect some crowds. Getting In: Hoover Dam Tour tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Grand Canyon South Rim Tour

amazing-view-grand-canyon-nevada-usa

Another absolutely must-do activity for those visiting Las Vegas with extra time on their hands is a voyage out to the inimitable Grand Canyon. Take a guided tour of the South Rim -- the most visited area of the National Park, with the most distinctive lookout points and Native American heritage sites. You'll be treated to an air-conditioned bus ride all the way out to the canyon (with an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch stop along the way), then a stop at most of the major landmarks like Mather Point, the Grand Canyon Railway, Hopi House Museum, and more. Getting In: Grand Canyon South Rim Tour tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 4-, and 5-Day Go Las Vegas Cards.

Blue Man Group Show & Other Shows

There's nothing more Las Vegas than taking in a show or three. Swing for the fences with the Blue Man Group, one of the most iconic acts in recent history. You'll enjoy their musical stylings alongside their signature makeup and costumes. If you're looking for other options, V Theater is another great venue that offers everything from a variety show to zombie burlesque to pet comedy shows. A perfect choice for families! Getting In: Blue Man Group Show tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 4-, and 5-Day Go Las Vegas Cards. Additional shows at V Theater are also included with the pass -consult our website for more details.

LINQ Promenade & High Roller Observation Wheel

high-roller-ferris-wheel-las-vegas

A fun area of the Strip to explore is the LINQ Promenade. This shopping and dining mecca is filled with plenty to explore and much to enjoy, including bars, concert venues, a bowling alley, and more. Another neat thing to do in the area is to ascend to the top of the High Roller Observation Wheel, which will provide excellent views of the Strip below and all the hectic glory of Las Vegas. Getting In: High Roller Observation Wheel tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

CSI: The Experience

If you’re a fan of the TV franchise and have an interest in criminal forensics, then CSI: The Experience is a great thing to do in Vegas in the summer (or anytime really). Learn all about the real techniques and technologies behind CSI’s depiction of a criminal investigation, and even embark on some crime-solving of your own! Getting In: CSI: The Experience tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

The Mob Museum

This delightful experience is a hit with visitors of all ages. Explore interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts. Learn about the significant role that organized crime has played in American history, and focus on the stories of some of the most famous criminals in the country. They also host a number of special events throughout the summer, ranging from community safety events to book signings and beyond. Check out their website for specifics. Getting In: Mob Museum tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Summer Stage Concert Series

Summerlin Every Wednesday (except July 4)

This delightful summer concert series on Summerlin's Lawn takes place every Wednesday evening from early June - mid July. Nightly entertainment includes a varied schedule of events beginning at 5 pm with a DJ and kid-friendly activities and concluding at 9 pm with a band performance. A tentative lineup for these events might include Rockie Brown and Jase Neron, likemelikeyou and Cameron Calloway, and several more. Getting In: Summer Stage Concert Series events are free.

Amazing Las Vegas ComicCon

Las Vegas Convention Center June

A fan of comic books and all things pop culture? Then spend some time at this multi-day convention dedicated to the “best and brightest” of contemporary and classic pop culture. Enjoy an exhibition hall, an artists’ gallery, a video game arena, costumed attendees, and much more. Some of the highlights of this year's con include Rob Liefeld (creator of DEADPOOL, CABLE, DOMINO, and X-FORCE), Charlie Cox as DAREDEVIL, Jason David Frank as Green Power Ranger, Brianna Hildebrand from DEADPOOL 2, and lots more! Getting In: Amazing Las Vegas ComicCon tickets are separately ticketed and are not included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Hamilton

The Smith Center May to June

Curious what all the Hamilton fuss is about? You're in luck if you're planning a trip to Las Vegas this summer. And, you won't be disappointed. Snag some tickets for when this Broadway smash is coming to Las Vegas and experience one of the most entertaining accounts of important American history at this Tony Award-winning musical. Getting In: Hamilton tickets in Las Vegas are separately ticketed and not included with the Go Las Vegas Card.

Las Vegas Golden Knights

T-Mobile Arena (or any sports bar) May to June

Who would have bet that the newest expansion team, the Las Vegas Golden Knights, would make it all the way to the NHL Stanley Cup Finals during their first year as an established team? If you did bet on them to go all the way, your bet would definitely have paid off! If you're not lucky enough to score tickets to the actual games, place your bet at a casino and belly up to a sports bar and cheer on the local team during the Stanley Cup Finals, the locals are sure to do some partying to celebrate their team! Getting In: NHL Stanley Cup Finals tickets are separately sold and not included on the Go Las Vegas Card.

Let's Recap

So there you have it. Our picks for some of the top things to do in Las Vegas in the summer. Please note, the summer events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Las Vegas Card. Plan to visit some of these top attractions during your trip. Whether you are traveling with your family or a couple of friends, we're sure you will have a great time.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

attractive-multiethnic-people-taking-risks
Blog

Las Vegas Bachelorette Party Ideas & Tips

Every friend group needs at least one friend to have their bachelorette party in Las Vegas. We put together some of our top tips and ideas for planning the best Las Vegas Bachelorette Party Weekend getaway with the girls, including where to stay, things to do, and where to eat. Tips for Planning Ideal length of stay: 3 days, 3 nights (this is not a hard-and-fast rule, just somewhere to start) Schedule in a little time for some R&R in your hotel room or plan a relaxing activity like a guided day trip, lounging at the pool, catching a show, or pampering at the spa. When planning for a group, let guests pick a couple of their activities (spa day vs. lounging at the pool, etc.) Skip the custom t-shirts and treat yourselves to an activity or extra special dinner instead (nobody ever wears those shirts again anyway!) Book accommodations and activities in advance to make sticking to a budget for the group easier. (Be sure to make any necessary reservations well in advance too.) Tips for saving on a hotel Shop around, look for promotions for Vegas hotels on budget travel sites, consider amenities that save money, such as airport shuttle service, pool access, a kitchenette, free parking, etc. Plan your trip first, and think about amenities you don't need. Booking a limo service to pick everyone up at the airport? Shuttle service might not be as big a draw. Going on a guided Pool Party Tour? Access to the hotel pool isn't much of a perk, etc. Budget Hotels (rooms are just for sleeping anyway, right?): some budget-friendly hotels on the strip to consider are, New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Motel 8 Las Vegas, Hilton Grand Vacations Suites at the Flamingo, The Mirage, and Treasure Island. High-Roller Hotels (you only get married once, right?): if you're looking for a little luxury on the strip, some hotels to consider are Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio Hotel & Casino, Caesars Palace, The Palazzo, Wynn Las Vegas, and Encore. Bachelorette Party Activities Give your guests an idea of the itinerary before the trip so that they know what to expect (and what to pack). Include the weather forecast when you touch base with all of the ladies right before the trip. For Relaxing Chances are, everybody will need a break from the parties and celebrations at some point during your trip to relax and restore. Schedule in some time to do something relaxing like seeing a show or hitting the spa. Sit back and relax as you glide through the picturesque streetscape on an outdoor gondola ride at The Venetian®. You'll feel like you're traveling through the canals of Venice while your guide serenades you. (Great photo opp!) Don't go to Vegas without catching a show at the famous V Theater . Or, loosen up the crowd and get the laughs going by taking the famous Stripper 101 class -- memories, guaranteed. Head to a luxurious spa for some Vegas-style pampering and professional detoxing. Schedule group massages, check out some hot tubs, or indulge in some mani/ pedis. Check out one of the top 5 picks from SheKnows.com. For Enrichment Explore the Strip. Get out and see the sunshine. It's easy to spend an entire day indoors with all the hotels and casinos have to offer. Explore the Strip on foot (be prepared, the Strip is 4 miles long) or, board a hop-on hop-off guided bus tour. Make sure you see the famous "Las Vegas, Nevada" sign and snap a pic with the whole group as a souvenir. Catch the famous fountain show at The Bellagio, walk over the "Brooklyn Bridge" at New York New York, and more. Where to Dine Otherwise known as: our favorite topic to write about, Las Vegas being no exception. For Brunching Is there such a thing as too many mimosas? Definitely not in Vegas. Head to the Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan for bubbles and brunch. Go for the bottomless mimosas, chicken and waffles, and the buffet-style amazing-ness that diners rave about (for good reason). Fans of "the Cake Boss" need to check out Buddy V's, Buddy Valastro's first restaurant. Their brunch menu features classic brunch creations served buffet-style and bottomless libations such as sangria, bloody marys, bloody caesars, and more. If you're like us, on Sundays, one of your favorite activities and checking the #bloodymary hashtag on instagram. Head to Todd English P.U.B. for break-the-internet-worthy bloody marys and some tasty bites. Find out what keeps all of the rave reviews coming at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino's Culinary Dropout, a trendy establishment with an innovative menu (pretzel fondue, anyone?), inviting atmosphere, and live music on select nights. Looking for classic American fare and a fun tourist-y dining experience? Be sure to check out the Planet Hollywood right on the strip. It's an easy place to go with a big group and the Hollywood movie-inspired atmosphere always promises a good time. The ever-popular In-N-Out Burger is always an option and might be a bucket list item for some of your guests. Located just off the strip on the other side of Interstate 15, it's a little tricky to get to, but we promise it's worth the small trek! Insider tip: be sure to get your double-double with a side of french fries "animal style", trust us, they're amazing. Have you been to a Las Vegas Bachelorette Party? Let us know if you would add any suggestions to our list in the comments below!
Casey Makovich
Young people the 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign
Blog

How to get into Las Vegas from Harry Reid International Airport

Cruise from the landing strip to the Las Vegas Strip in mere minutes.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
people celebrating in las vegas
Blog

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! 

Have a 5% discount, on us!

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