One Day in Las Vegas Itinerary - Experience Vegas in a Day for Under $100

By Casey Makovich
Published: July 18, 2024

Heading to Las Vegas with limited time to explore and wondering what to do? You’re in luck, because we have some great advice for where to go and what to see if you have only one day in Las Vegas. We put together a sample one day itinerary designed to showcase a few of the best Las Vegas highlights with limited time. This one day itinerary includes:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Las Vegas Sightseeing Tour
  • High Roller Observation Deck at the LINQ
  • Fountains at Bellagio (free!)
  • Show at V Theater

Spending more time in Sin City? Then take a peek at one of our weekend in Las Vegas or popular 3 day itineraries.

Save on Attraction Admission

With a 3-Choice Las Vegas Explorer Pass you can visit these great attractions all while saving on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Remember, this one day itinerary is just one of many ways to experience Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Explorer Pass gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from dozens of top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests.

Stop #1: Big Bus Las Vegas Sightseeing Tour

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This Hop-On Hop-Off bus is the perfect introduction to Las Vegas. More than a city bus tour, it will take you up and down the Strip past all the most iconic landmarks and provides a convenient way to get around and see lots of places along the Strip quickly. Your guide will provide fun facts about the city's history and culture and give you some insider insights and suggested points of interest along the way. Tip: Check out our guide for getting around Las Vegas with Big Bus before your visit. Bus tour highlights include the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada” sign, the Golden Nugget, and Fremont Street. Passengers will see lots of legendary hotels and casinos, Miracle Mile, the malls, museum, monuments, and more along the Strip. Getting In: Big Bus Las Vegas Hop-On Hop-Off Day Tour tickets are available as an option on the Las Vegas Explorer Pass.

Stop #2: High Roller Observation Deck

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One of the other top ways to see the fabulous Las Vegas is from a great height. Get stunning aerial views from the High Roller Observation Deck at the LINQ. This is actually the world's tallest observation wheel -- standing at 550 feet above ground level. Enjoy a 30-minute ride with phenomenal, 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip and beyond. The LINQ itself is an exciting outdoor shopping and dining destination, so you'll have plenty to explore after your 30 minute ride. Grab a drink, some snacks, or indulge in some shopping afterwards and enjoy a delightful afternoon! Getting In: High Roller Observation Deck tickets are available as an option on the Las Vegas Explorer Pass.

Stop #3: Fountains at Bellagio (free!)

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After lunch, take a short stroll over to the Fountains of Bellagio, one of the most popular things to do in Las Vegas, for a mesmerizing musical water show. The stunning fountains are choreographed in time to famous musical numbers. Shows feature a variety of recognizable music, from concert opera and classical to Broadway tunes, for an always entertaining (and always free) show.

Stop #4: Show at V Theater

Take advantage of being in the “Entertainment Capital of the World” and catch one of the amusing and engaging shows Las Vegas is famous for. Choose from the huge variety of shows at the V Theater, located right on the Strip. Owned by the famed Las Vegas producer David Saxe, the V Theater is home to some of the most entertaining, award-winning performances on the Strip. Shows you can choose from include:

  • V - The Ultimate Variety Show: A little bit of everything Vegas packed into one, award-winning show featuring some of the best talent for a fun and memorable experience.
  • VEGAS! THE SHOW: Experience all of the glitz, glamour, and extravagant costumes that make Vegas the 'Entertainment Capital of the World' - a must-see show for all ages.
  • The Mentalist: This show features mind-blowing magic, mind-reading, and comedy from the TV show phenomenon, Gerry McCambridge.
  • and more!

Each show creatively pays tribute to the spectacle that is Las Vegas’ unique entertainment culture. No reservations required. A Go Las Vegas Explorer Pass grants you general admission seating only. Located inside Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Getting In: Vegas Shows at the V Theater are available as an option on the Las Vegas Explorer Pass.

Let’s Recap

This One Day in Las Vegas Itinerary features the perfect selection of activities and attractions to experience some of the best Las Vegas has to offer in a limited amount of time. Saving on things to do in one day in Las Vegas is easy. If you visit the stops mentioned in this Las Vegas itinerary you can save up to 55% off combined admission prices with a 3-Choice Go Las Vegas Explorer Pass. The pass offers flexibility to pick attractions you want to visit from over 10 choices, making it the perfect way to explore Las Vegas for any length of stay.

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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teenage girls taking a selfie in Las Vegas
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Las Vegas with Teens: A Fun-Loving Guide to Epic Adventure

Planning a Las Vegas trip with teens? Good news: the city’s packed with non-stop energy, daring adventures, and plenty of sugar-fueled delights waiting to be Instagrammed. Whether your teens are adrenaline junkies, pop culture mavens, or budding foodies, Las Vegas brings way more to the table than a neon-lit playground for grown-ups. You’ll find wild rides, epic shows, immersive museums, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and quirky local treats that’ll have everyone wide-eyed. Ready to dive into a family itinerary that’ll make the group chat jealous? Here’s our ultimate list of do-not-miss things for teens in Las Vegas.  Our favorite things to do in Las Vegas with teens include:  The Big Apple Roller Coaster  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Fly LINQ Zipline  Madame Tussauds  The Neon Museum  Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix  Fountains of Bellagio  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe  Fremont Street Experience  High Roller Observation Wheel: Snap the Strip from Above   Teens and jaw-dropping selfies go hand-in-hand, so you can’t miss the High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ. Soaring 550 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, this is the world’s tallest observation wheel—and the best place to catch the dazzle of a Vegas sunset or nighttime neon, all from a climate-controlled pod.  Each rotation lasts about 30 minutes, and there’s plenty of room to snap photos, play games, or just take in the sights. Teens especially love seeing famous landmarks way below, plus the thrill of spotting roller coasters, replicas of the Eiffel Tower, and fountains in one sweeping view. The vibe is surprisingly chill (even if you’re a little nervous about heights), and the experience feels less like a carnival ride and more like a floating lounge. For groups, make the most of the photo ops—you’ll leave with memories and a digital album packed with future profile pics.  The Mob Museum: Solve Mysteries, Break the Code   Ready to step into the world of daring heists, ’20s gangsters, and high-stakes mystery? The Mob Museum (officially the National Museum of Organized Crime & Law Enforcement) is where real history gets interactive. Teens love it for the speakeasy vibe, immersive exhibits, and quirky crime lab experiences.  Explore the fascinating stories of infamous mobsters, peek at their actual weapons and money-laundering tools, and even try simulated police training and forensic fingerprinting. The Underground—an authentic Prohibition-era speakeasy (for the grown-ups)—sits right below, giving the whole place a sense of adventure. For true-crime buffs or would-be detectives, the Mob Museum is a must. You’ll leave with crazy stories to share, and probably a newfound respect for fingerprint powder.  Fly LINQ Zipline: Soar Over the Strip   Forget walking—teens will never forget flying down the Strip’s only zipline experience! Fly LINQ starts 12 stories up then launches you across The LINQ Promenade, right toward the giant High Roller. There’s nothing like the rush of zooming 1,121 feet, city lights whirring beneath you, and crowds cheering below.  You can race your friends side-by-side on parallel lines, striking superhero poses all the way down. The launch tower gives you shaking knees and laughs in equal measure, while the open-air ride gets hearts pumping. Once you touch down, you’re just steps from great eats and shops at LINQ Promenade, so cool off with a bubble tea or browse quirky Las Vegas souvenirs. For thrill-seeking teens, this is a highlight that delivers excitement and a fresh view of the city.  Madame Tussauds: Meet Your Fave Celebs—Sort Of   Dive into the selfie capital of Las Vegas! Madame Tussauds is the wax museum packed with hyper-realistic celebrity figures—and it’s one of those rare museums where you’re supposed to touch the exhibits. Teens will make a beeline for the Marvel superheroes, the “Hangover” bar, or a group pic with the Kardashians.  Each exhibit is interactive, from riding Miley Cyrus’s party wrecking ball to stepping onto a set with musical legends. There’s even a virtual reality room where you can bust out a few dance moves or star in your own scene with famous friends. The atmosphere is pure fun, and teens will love filling their camera rolls with pose after pose. With different themed rooms and seasonal exhibits, it’s an ever-changing hotspot that’s way cooler than you may remember.  Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix: Go-Karts, Arcade Mania, and Pizza Perfection   Sometimes you just need a break from the Strip—and Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix is the answer for high-energy teens. Imagine a mini amusement park packed with thrilling go-kart tracks for every skill level, classic amusement rides, and a rowdy arcade. Race your siblings on the fastest karts or team up for bumper cars and carnival games.  The food court serves crowd-favorite pizza and wings—ideal for that post-race refuel. The outdoor patio overlooks all the action, while party rooms play host to birthday groups and high-score competitions. The vibe is playful and totally teen-approved. Bonus: you can easily brag about beating Mom or Dad in a real race (we suggest demanding a rematch).  Fountains of Bellagio: Vegas’ Best Free Show   Craving a wow moment that won’t break the bank? Head straight to the Fountains of Bellagio, where music, lights, and choreographed water jets combine in a mesmerizing dance every 15-30 minutes. The lakefront is buzzing with crowds, yet there’s room for everyone to snag a view.  Standing beneath the neon skyline, the soundtrack pumps familiar hits—think Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, or Sinatra—and each show is a little different. Teens will love the drama and energy, perfect for TikTok or Snapchat. Whether you swing by during the day or catch a dazzling nighttime performance, it’s classic Vegas magic you’ll want to rewind again and again.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Satisfy Every Sweet Tooth   Sugar cravings strike hard in the desert, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe delivers with colorful, over-the-top desserts begging to be shared. If your teen is on the hunt for the best treat in Vegas, try their signature loaded waffles, chocolate-drizzled croissants, or the “Famous Rainbow Cake”—each vibrant layer stacked with fluffy icing.  The interior is cozy and Instagrammable—think neon donut wall and pastel tile floors. Outdoor seating on the promenade lets you people-watch and soak up the buzz. Beyond their jaw-dropping cakes and pastries, Sweet Sin serves refreshing bubble teas and decadent milkshakes—perfect for cooling off after a stroll or big day of thrills. Teens will love sampling something new and grabbing some #foodie shots for their feeds. Whether it’s a pit stop for quick sugar rush or a leisurely afternoon treat, Sweet Sin sets the mood for fun, flavor-packed downtime right in the heart of The LINQ Promenade.  Fremont Street Experience: Light Shows and Street Performers Galore  Fremont Street Experience is one of those places that captures the wild spirit of Las Vegas like nowhere else. Tucked in downtown’s historic core, it’s a five-block entertainment district covered by a giant LED canopy—the largest video screen of its kind in the world. Walk beneath it as 16 million brilliant colors flash overhead during one of the scheduled light shows set to pulsing music, and you’ll understand why teens love this spot for sensory overload.  But Fremont Street is more than just dazzling pixels. On any given night, you might see live bands, gravity-defying street performers, magicians, or artists painting incredible murals right in front of you. It has an electric, festival-like energy that makes you feel instantly part of Vegas’ living history. Teens will love the zooming SlotZilla Zipline overhead (for even more adrenaline), quirky street art photo ops, and hopping between quirky souvenir shops and sweet treat stands. There’s even a bit of people-watching theater—Fremont is prime real estate for spotting Vegas eccentrics in their element!    There you have it: Las Vegas isn’t just for grown-ups—it’s a teen-friendly wonderland packed with wild rides, fascinating stories, world-famous light shows, and a rainbow of sweet treats. Mix up your adventure with a blend of thrill-a-minute attractions, interactive museums, and plenty of time for those “had-to-be-there” moments, and you’ll discover a whole new side of Vegas your family will never forget.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the biggest tourist traps you should avoid, and how to the make the most of your evenings in Las Vegas.  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! 
Vegas skyline with fireworks
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Las Vegas in July

Who’s feeling hot, hot, hot? If you find yourself heading to this den of decadence this month, expect to be spending most of your time indoors, because Vegas in July is a scorcher. You’ll also be competing with the crowds and paying premium rates, especially if you’re here on a weekend – but that’s no reason to stay away, as the pool parties are still rocking and one of the biggest holidays of the year happens this month. So grab a portable fan and some no-melt flip flops, because it’s time for summer in Sin City. Turn up the heat with Go City With so many unmissable Las Vegas attractions to check out this summer, see them all with a Las Vegas Pass. 
Karleen Stevens
Welcome to Las Vegas sign in the sunshine
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Las Vegas in May

Tucked away in the Nevada desert, surrounded on all sides by sand, rocks and an occasional cactus, is a bright pocket of color, sound and neon lights. It never sleeps, and it’s never stopped, since some plucky miners and their railroad brought wealth to the region more than a hundred years ago. The city, of course, is Las Vegas. Today, no matter the time of day or year, weary travelers and adventure-seekers alike still seek their fortune here – though one of the best times to come, for weather, crowds and partying till the small hours, is the charming spring month of May. All you need to know includes: Weather in May What's on Day trip ideas Pool parties Las Vegas in May Average temperature: 89oF • Average rainfall: 1 day/mth • Average sunshine: 13 hours Things begin to heat up in Vegas in May, as the days get longer and the clouds dissipate, leaving clear blue skies as far as the eye can see. There’s almost no rain – average rainfall for the whole month is 0.12 inches – but it’s not unheard of for an isolated thunderstorm to roll in, so check the forecast before you head out. It gets warmer as the month goes on, with temperatures regularly reaching the mid-90s and potentially ticking over 100 degrees, so be prepared for heat – particularly in the middle of the day. It’s still quite cool in the evenings, averaging a brisk 66oF overnight, so a light jacket or coat is recommended if you’re heading out and about after dark. Keep in mind, also, that many of the hotels and casinos have dress codes and don’t allow shorts – though fortunately they’re all air-conditioned, so you’ll be fine once you get there. What’s on in May There’s no shortage of fun to be had in Vegas in May, though if you’re here on a festival weekend you can expect to pay premium rates for hotels. On the other hand, if you miss them, your chances of getting a great deal are pretty good. Around the middle of the month is the annual Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, when the city fills up with rockstars and people who want to get a glimpse of them. Recent performers and recipients have included Ed Sheeran, Kanye West, Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande, to name a few. If that’s not your thing, escape the hoards by whisking yourself up to the Eiffel Tower observation deck, or seek sanctuary on the High Roller Observation Wheel in a soundproofed, climate-controlled pod. The last Monday of the month is Memorial Day and in Vegas this marks the unofficial start of the summer season. Most of the hotels get their festival vibes on with pool parties lasting all weekend; clubs, bars and restaurants will also have special events and offers. Or if you’re looking for a family-friendly event you could attend The Best Dam Barbeque Challenge, a two-day annual event in which teams compete to produce the best ribs, pork, brisket, and chicken. For spectators, as well as the obvious chance to taste a lot of grilled meat, there’s music, a car show and barbequing lessons for the kids. Or if you’re into Punk Rock and bowling, go for the obscure but fun Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival, which is pretty much exactly what it says it is. Day trips from Vegas May is a great time to explore the regions around the city, as the days are getting longer but the heat hasn’t yet become extreme. If it’s your first time in the area make sure you visit the Grand Canyon and tick a natural wonder of the world off your bucket list. The trip begins and ends with a smooth ride in an air-conditioned coach, and in between you’ll enjoy a rejuvenating stop at Lake Mead, cross the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge into Arizona and spend three hours exploring the Canyon’s stunning South Rim on a guided tour. If you prefer wonders of engineering, you could visit Hoover Dam, where you can peer from the dam itself into the depths of the Black Canyon and spend some time exploring Boulder City. Or if you prefer a more elementary escape, why not try a combined trip to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon? Here you can enjoy a scenic drive over mountain passes and red cliffs, see unique rock formations at Chequerboard Mesa and walk the rim of a canyon with stunning natural vistas. Wherever you choose to go, be sure to have your camera fully charged! Vegas Pools When you’ve been out in the desert all day, or hitting the shops of the Vegas Strip, there’s only one way to cool off – in a luxury Vegas hotel pool. This is nothing like your local swim center – these are mind-blowingly lavish and often magnificent bathing resorts, each attempting to outdo the others in theme, extravagance and sheer ingenuity. Choices include 11 acres of beach, tropical island and wave pools at Mandalay Bay, the Mount Olympus-themed Garden of the Gods at Caesar’s Palace, or actual sharks in the titanic-sized tank at the Golden Nugget. Pool season lasts from March to October and most of them stay open from 7am to 7pm. Many of them host pool parties – although you’ll hear them referred to as ‘day clubs’ - because they’re basically an all-day party with music, drinks and crowds of young people letting their hair down. Before you head to your chosen oasis, be aware that many of the hotels have strict rules about who’s allowed in, and in what manner, so make you check before you bathe. One or two – like the LINQ Influence Pool and Planet Hollywood – are free at certain times, but most have to be booked and paid for unless you’re staying at that hotel, and pool parties are strictly adults-only. If you’re not sure which one to pick – or want to try more than one – jump on a Rock Star Pool Party Tour which will take you to two of the best ones on a limo with complimentary drinks. When the pools close, follow it up (if you’ve got the stamina) with a Rockstar Club Tour, which gets you into four of the most exclusive clubs in town. Yes, you ‘May’ have it all! May is the perfect month to visit Sin City. Save money with a Go City Las Vegas Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass, and make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Karleen Stevens

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