Las Vegas in February: Fun Escapes to Beat the Winter Blues

Published: March 25, 2026
cirque du soleil performer

Winter might put half the world into hibernation mode, but not Las Vegas. February here always buzzes with action, offering sunlit adventures, dazzling shows, outdoor thrills and unique ways to celebrate Valentine’s—or Mardi Gras—Vegas-style. Get ready to swap snow boots for sneakers and discover a side of Sin City beyond the casinos. We’ve rounded up the best February experiences to help you fill your days (and nights) with excitement, romance and a little extra Vegas sparkle. 

Our favorite things to do in Las Vegas in February include: 

The High Roller Observation Wheel 

Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes 

The Mob Museum 

The Big Apple Roller Coaster 

Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter 

Madame Tussauds 

minus5˚ Ice Experience at Venetian Canal Shoppes 

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour 

Catching a Cirque du Soleil show 

Dining at Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade 

The High Roller Observation Wheel: Sky-High Views with a Valentine’s Vibe 

Come February, Vegas skies are clear and temperatures are just right for soaring high above the Strip. Step into one of the High Roller’s spacious pods and prepare for a slow, smooth rotation that gifts you 360-degree views of neon lights, desert mountains and city landmarks. By day, you’ll spot the Red Rock cliffs and see the Strip in all its sun-drenched glory; come nightfall, Vegas sparkles below like a planet of its own. 

The energy inside these glass capsules is always fun—especially if you time your visit for sunset cocktails, or in the mood for romance around Valentine’s Day. Some pods even feature bartenders, so you can toast to love or adventure as the city twinkles beneath you. It’s the perfect place to kick off an evening, snap bucket-list photos, or simply take in the wildness that is Vegas. 

Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes: Winter Sun and Red Rock Views

Think outdoor adventure and Vegas in the same sentence? Absolutely! February’s mild temps make it the perfect month to join a guided hiking tour in Red Rock Canyon or the surrounding desert. Love Hikes leads small groups out onto the wild trails, offering experiences for every fitness level—from gentle strolls through colorful sandstone to longer treks where the landscape stretches for miles. 

Why add hiking to your Vegas plans? You’ll trade flashing slots for stunning natural silence, with guides who love sharing stories about the area’s geology, history and hidden gems. Expect crisp air, brilliant blue skies, and plenty of photo ops—without the scorching heat of summer. Plus, it’s just enough exercise to justify any extra dessert later. 

The Mob Museum: Secrets, Scandals and Speakeasies 

On cool February days, step inside the Mob Museum for a blast of Las Vegas history with a twist. Housed in a former courthouse downtown, this interactive museum plunges you into the world of organized crime and law enforcement. The exhibits cover everything from infamous gangsters and dramatic FBI busts to vintage artifacts and real-life stories. 

If you love a little theatrical flair to your museum experience, you’re in luck. Explore re-creations of old-time speakeasies (don’t miss the basement bar), check out crime scene evidence, and even test your skills in a police training simulator. The mood is immersive but playful—think Prohibition cocktails, surprising trivia and a sense that you’ve stepped behind the velvet curtain of Vegas’ wildest years. 

The Big Apple Roller Coaster: Thrills Over the Strip 

Who needs summertime to chase an adrenaline rush? The Big Apple Roller Coaster at New York-New York Hotel zips and dips along the outside of a mini Manhattan skyline, delivering heart-pounding excitement whatever the weather. February’s cool breezes only add to the sensation as you twist through loops, drops and over-the-Strip stretches at more than 60mph. 

This isn’t just any roller coaster—it’s a classic Vegas experience. The street-level station puts you in the middle of all the action, and moments later you’re hundreds of feet above, shrieking (nicely) as the lights of Las Vegas blur beneath you. Grab a photo as proof: the view—and your triumphant grin—will be memorable. 

Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter: The Ultimate Vegas Wow 

For those best-in-show, shout-it-from-the-rooftops Vegas vibes, nothing beats a helicopter ride over the Strip. Papillon’s night flights lift off at sunset, swoop around dazzling landmarks and offer a perspective most only dream about. In February, the nighttime air feels fresh and invigorating, and you’ll catch all the glitz with minimal crowds. 

Inside the chopper, it’s surprisingly cozy, the mood cinematic as you glide above Bellagio fountains, the glowing Eiffel Tower and neon-drenched casinos. Don’t forget your camera—this is the kind of experience you’ll want to relive. Whether you’re in town for romance, a celebration, or pure adventure, this is the experience that says: “We did Vegas right.” 

Madame Tussauds: Selfies with the Stars 

If your February plans include rubbing elbows with celebrities (the wax kind!), Madame Tussauds at the Venetian is your go-to. The mood inside is part party, part pop-culture playground; you’ll wander from the Marvel Superheroes to classic Rat Pack legends, striking armor-clad poses with sports heroes or pretending to croon with Elvis. 

The real charm? You’re encouraged to touch, pose and fully ham it up in themed sets—be it the Viva Las Vegas wedding chapel, a Marvel Avengers headquarters, or the hottest TikTok backdrop. Friendly staff are always ready to offer photo tips and fun props, making sure your celebrity moments are Instagram-ready. 

minus5˚ Ice Experience at Venetian Canal Shoppes: Chill Out Vegas-Style

While Vegas boasts near-perfect February weather, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a deep-freeze adventure. Step inside minus5˚ Ice Experience and find yourself in a winter wonderland sculpted entirely from ice—bars, benches, glasses, and even the walls. The team provides you with a cozy parka and gloves, so you’re snug as you sip a frosty cocktail surrounded by sparkling sculptures. 

What sets minus5˚ apart is the way it mixes chill with cheer—the music’s always upbeat and each ice room is crafted with wild themes, from undersea kingdoms to fantasy castles. If you’re traveling with friends or want to escape the bustle, this frosty hangout is a guaranteed conversation starter. 

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour: See it All—Your Way 

Sometimes you want the sights without the sprint. Hop onto the Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour and let the double-decker coach do all the work while you’re treated to fun commentary about must-see spots and Vegas stories. February keeps the weather sunny and the open-air top deck breezy and comfortable. 

With stops at famous hotels, Fremont Street, artsy districts and more, you set the pace—hop off for a closer look, then catch the next bus when you’re ready. It’s the easiest way to discover hidden gems, try spontaneous snacks, or just let yourself be amazed by Vegas’ larger-than-life atmosphere without missing a beat. 

Catch a Cirque du Soleil Show: Mind-Bending Spectacle 

February nights demand something extraordinary, and Cirque du Soleil’s Vegas shows deliver high drama, laughs and visual wonder in equal measure. Whether you grab tickets for KA, where martial arts and pyrotechnics light up the stage, or Mad Apple at New York-New York, which blends acrobatics with a tribute to New York nightlife, you’ll leave energized. 

These productions unfold in grand theaters with custom-built sets, live music and stunts that seem to defy gravity. The crowd’s energy is contagious and there’s no such thing as a bad seat—a true Vegas experience that makes any winter night unforgettable. 

Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: A February Treat 

No adventure is complete without a snack stop, and Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe serves irresistible pastries and drinks with a side of sunny terrace seating. Set in the lively LINQ Promenade, it’s the perfect pause between attractions. The cafe’s signature dessert—the Rainbow Crepe Cake—layers delicate crepes with silky cream, while the house croissants and creative coffee drinks keep the vibe fun and indulgent. 

The interior bubbles with color, playful décor and a welcome escape from the hustle outside. February mornings are blissful here, with quietly buzzing crowds and plenty of time to plot your next move with friends. For a little pick-me-up before more exploring, try the matcha latte or a caramel macchiato—made all the better paired with a pistachio eclair or the decadent chocolate mousse domes. Whether you’re after a sweet start to your day or an afternoon treat, Sweet Sin offers a cozy spot to soak up Vegas’ energy while taking a breather. 

See Downtown on a Fremont Street Walking Tour 

If you want to dive deep into Las Vegas history and get a taste of local life, take a walking tour around Fremont Street. February’s mild temperatures mean you can wander comfortably among dazzling neon lights, retro casinos, and street performers galore. Guides are big on storytelling—you’ll hear wild tales from the city’s early days and discover secret murals and iconic locations that most tourists miss. 

The downtown vibe is electric: zipliners soar above, music pours from open-air stages, and vintage lights blink in every direction. Along the way, you might pop into classic haunts like the Golden Nugget or grab a souvenir at a quirky local shop. Feeling peckish? Downtown’s food scene has exploded, from gourmet tacos to craft breweries—ask your guide for recs. This tour is part time machine, part people-watching adventure, and all-around fun. 

Try a GoCar Tour of the Las Vegas Strip 

Ready to zip around town without worrying about traffic or navigation? Hop into a GoCar—a pint-sized, GPS-guided yellow ride that narrates Vegas’ sights as you go. These little vehicles are a blast and super simple to drive. In February, the cooler weather means you’ll feel the breeze as you cruise past mega-resorts, art installations, and cheeky roadside attractions. 

The GoCar’s GPS provides a real-time audio tour, so you can learn about everything from Mafia history to behind-the-scenes Vegas trivia. Pause whenever something catches your eye—your ride waits for you. It’s a combination of adventure and sightseeing that makes you feel a bit like a celebrity, with plenty of opportunities for quirky photo ops along the way. 

Celebrate Festivals and Special Events 

February brings plenty of festivities to the Strip and beyond. If you’re in town for Valentine’s Day, expect themed restaurant menus, special performances, and creative ways to say “I love you”—Vegas style. For sports fans, Super Bowl Sunday always turns local bars, lounges, and sportsbooks into lively destinations filled with big screens, bonus deals, and game-day snacks. 

Some years, Chinese New Year also falls in February, bringing elaborate dragon parades and lavish floral displays to hotels like The Venetian and Bellagio. Don’t miss the chance to snap pictures of massive lanterns, swirling dancers, and indoor “good luck” gardens that change each year. 

Ready for Your Las Vegas February Adventure? 

Swap winter chills for sun, stories, and serious fun. Whether you want to soar above the Strip, try something delicious, catch a world-class show, or explore natural wonders, Las Vegas in February delivers unforgettable moments at every turn. And hey, if you spot Elvis in a parka—just go with it. That’s #VegasLife for you! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best casino hotels to call home on your Vegas adventure, and discover which tourist traps to miss. 

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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. 

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Las Vegas helicopter going past the Eiffel Tower
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Adventurous things to do in Las Vegas

There’s no place quite like Las Vegas for satisfying the senses – the flashing signs, bright costumes, music, traffic and the sound of chips being counted are enough to overwhelm even the hardiest of visitors. It’s not a place for the faint hearted! And of course, a place like Vegas is bound to attract thrill-seekers and risk-takers, looking for a novel and exciting experience. Fortunately, there’s much more to Vegas than gambling your fortunes on the spin of a wheel or the chance to get married on a whim – there’s plenty more for the courageous spirit here! Our picks for the best Vegas adventures include: Vegas Strip helicopter tour SkyJump from the STRAT The Fly LINQ Zipline The Big Apple Roller Coaster The Blair Witch escape room Hiking to hot springs The Vegas Strip helicopter tour Feel your adrenaline pumping as you launch upward in the ‘limousine of the sky’. Hear the roar of the propellers as you soar along the famous strip, and see the Luxor Pyramid, Bellagio Fountains and the streets of Downtown Vegas from a whole new, colorful perspective. This Vegas Strip helicopter tour takes you from Las Vegas Boulevard to Fremont Street and back again, over neon signs, searching spotlights and crowds of people all looking tiny from your high vantage point. The ECO-Star helicopter is spacious and comfortable, and you can take as many photos as you like – but don’t forget to pause and take it all in, because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! SkyJump from the STRAT Head up to the top of the STRAT, where you can enjoy 360-degree views from 108 floors above the Strip. Then hop into a jumpsuit, strap yourself to the descender machine and jump! You’ll feel like superman leaping tall buildings in a single bound as you hurtle down the only Sky Jump in North America at speeds up to 40 miles per hour. Feel the wind whipping your face and roaring in your ears – if that doesn’t get the adrenaline pumping, nothing will! As you reach the ground the landing will be carefully controlled, and you’ll have a chance to look at photos of your descent while you get your land legs back again. Then you can head to one of the lip-smackingly good restaurants of the STRAT, since all that jumping is bound to have worked up an appetite. Ride the Fly LINQ Zipline If jumping from a 108-storey building is just a little too much for you, how about a 1,121-foot zipline? When you ride the Fly LINQ, you’re strapped into a harness and ride in a seated position, and while you can still reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, you’re only launching from 122 feet up, so you travel at a slightly less alarming angle. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the views, which include the open-air LINQ shopping center, the Brooklyn Bowl and the broad, twinkling streets and promenades of Vegas. Then you’ll finish at the High Roller Observation Wheel, which is the tallest observation wheel in the Americas and makes a wonderful backdrop for your souvenir photo! Ride the Big Apple Roller Coaster If there’s anything cooler than a roller coaster in the middle of a city, it’s a roller coaster with a New York Subway-inspired platform and cars designed to look like NYC taxi cabs. And sure, the Big Apple Coaster makes a very impressive skyline, but the best way to experience it is to ride it. It’ll take you slowly up to around 80 feet, where you’ll get a brief glimpse over the city before being whisked down again through a series of loops, spirals and inversions at a heart-pumping speed. You’ll believe you’re in New York as replicas of the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building whizz by. And if you find it all happened a bit too fast – perhaps you’ll have to go and ride it again! Escape the Blair Witch Project experience Escape rooms come in many shapes, sizes and difficulty levels, and themes to suit all tastes and interests. In the Vegas Number One Escape Room, for example, you can choose to escape from a creepy cabin in the woods, Red Riding Hood’s grandmother’s house, foil a jewelry heist or follow up a bigfoot sighting. But the most daring will want to try the Blair Witch Escape Room, based on the terrifying movie franchise. Begin at the Burkittsville Ranger’s Station in the Black Hills Forest and follow the clues to find out exactly what happened to some missing students. Featuring creaky doors, dark, dank rooms and actual props from the movies, fans and thrill-seekers alike will be drawn into this heart-pounding experience. The question is, will you be able to get out again... Go hiking to hot springs If you’re looking for a little adventure out of the city, just downstream from Hoover Dam in the Black Canyon is the Gold Strike Canyon, where you’ll find the Gold Strike and Nevada Hot Springs. To get there, it’s an hour or so’s hike from the highway over rocks and other obstacles, some of which require hauling yourself up fixed-place ropes. Anyone of reasonable fitness should be able to manage it, but take note that the hike is not recommended in summer because of the potential presence of rattlesnakes. Once you get there you can have a relaxing soak in the hot springs, enjoying the quiet and isolation of the hills and rocks. Note there are risks associated with the springs as well, so be sure to check for any health warnings before you jump in. Have more adventures with Go City With Go City, you can save on dozens of attractions in and around Las Vegas. Whether you’re trying to be a bit braver, or a full adrenaline junkie, bring out your adventurous side with a Las Vegas Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass whenever you find yourself sightseeing in Sin City!
Karleen Stevens
the route to vegas covered in snow
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Snow in Vegas? Here’s Your Coolest Las Vegas To-Do List

You’ve landed in Vegas hoping for sunshine and non-stop fun—so waking up to snow is a surprise you didn’t see coming. But trust us: when a rare flurry dusts the city, Las Vegas flips the script in all kinds of magical ways. It’s your chance to see the Strip from a whole new angle, try out over-the-top indoor attractions, and sip something warm at a hidden café while neon lights glow against a frosty sky. Whether you’re up for snowy excitement in the surrounding mountains, craving a snug show-night, or simply looking to lean into this wintery twist, Las Vegas doesn’t miss a beat. Here’s how to turn your snowy Vegas day into legendary memories—no sunglasses required.  Our favorite things to do in Las Vegas when it snows include:  minus5° Ice Experience at the Venetian  Madame Tussauds  The Mob Museum  The High Roller Observation Wheel  Las Vegas Hiking Adventures by Love Hikes  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  KA by Cirque du Soleil  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  The Neon Museum  Madame Tussauds  When chilly weather keeps you from wandering the Strip, Madame Tussauds offers a blockbuster afternoon indoors. Here, lifelike wax figures of everyone from Elvis to Beyoncé invite you to strike a pose, strut your stuff, and let out your inner superstar. The mood is pure fun: imagine belting out a duet with Adele or hopping on the throne alongside the Marvel superheroes.  The themed rooms are loaded with photo ops, and the interactive style means your group can go from rock star to sports legend in one visit. The Las Vegas room is especially fun for local flair—try your luck at a virtual craps table or get snapped with the Rat Pack under vintage neon. What stands out most is the easygoing atmosphere: no queues, no velvet ropes, just a playful space where you can be a pop icon, game-show host, or heartbreaker for the day. When the snow keeps you inside, this spot keeps the energy high.  The Mob Museum  Snowy days are the perfect excuse to do a bit of underworld time-travel at The Mob Museum. Housed in an elegant old courthouse downtown, this museum is packed with stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits chronicling organized crime’s wild history in Vegas and beyond. The atmospheric galleries whisk you from Prohibition speakeasies to the glitzy (and gritty) days of Sinatra-era Las Vegas.  The exhibits are anything but stuffy; you can try your hand at cracking a safe, step into a “wiretap” booth, or get chills in the basement-level Prohibition bar, where vintage cocktails are a specialty (we recommend the house Old Fashioned for that extra-cozy winter vibe). The storytelling here balances drama with a sense of humor, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve gotten the real—and wildly entertaining—backstory on Vegas’ early days. Indoor, intriguing, and always surprising, it’s a snowy-day winner.  High Roller Observation Wheel  Just because the weather’s taken a frosty turn doesn’t mean you have to miss those jaw-dropping Strip views. Step into a cozy glass pod on the High Roller and ascend 550 feet above the city for a panorama that rivals any sunset stroll. The best part? The pods are climate-controlled, so you’re toasty-warm even as snow falls outside.  Every rotation delivers sweeping views of the Strip, Downtown, and—if you’re lucky—a magical dusting of snow on the mountains surrounding Vegas. It’s a perfect backdrop for vacation photos, proposals, or simply soaking up the contrast between city lights and winter skies. If you’re feeling festive, grab a spot in a pod with an open bar and toast your snowy adventure while the city spins beneath you—only in Las Vegas!  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  Art lovers: when the Strip’s bustling sidewalks turn slippery, duck into the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art for peace, quiet, and world-class exhibitions. The gallery’s lineup rotates, but expect eye-catching shows ranging from Impressionist paintings to pop-culture icons, all displayed in an intimate, softly-lit space.  It’s an inspiring break from the neon flash, and the atmosphere is beautifully calm—ideal for enjoying creative contemplation as the snow drifts by outside. Take a moment to indulge at the Bellagio’s renowned Patisserie afterward, where flaky pastries and warm drinks complete the escape. If galleries are your happy place, this one offers a mindful, memorable escape on a chilly day.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Snow day or not, Vegas has a way of making dessert the main event. Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade takes that to heart, and their velvet-lined cases of macarons, cupcakes, and pastries are a sight for sore eyes (and freezing fingers).  What’s the vibe? Modern, playful, and full of tempting treats—grab a seat by the window to watch snow fall on the Promenade’s twinkling lights. The pistachio eclairs and rainbow pastel macarons are favorites, but don’t miss their gooey cinnamon rolls if you’re craving something comforting with your cappuccino. With a laid-back crowd and plenty of people-watching, it’s the coziest place to thaw out and indulge your sweet tooth Vegas-style.  KA by Cirque du Soleil  A snowy night in Vegas calls for extravagant entertainment, and Cirque du Soleil’s KA is about as big as it gets. The theater alone is a wow—imposing and state-of-the-art, designed to immerse you the moment you walk in. As the lights dim, you’re transported to a world of epic battles, high-flying acrobatics, and gravity-defying stunts.  The show balances jaw-dropping spectacle with dreamy, cinematic storytelling, and the costumes and sets are a riot of color and movement. Every seat is a good seat thanks to clever stagecraft, and the energy in the air is contagious—by the explosive finish, the whole crowd is buzzing. If you want to celebrate winter in Vegas in true showbiz style, wrap up your snowy day with KA for a memory that feels straight out of a Vegas legend.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  Worried you’ll miss the Strip’s best scenery because of the cold? Hop on the Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour and see the city in comfort. The open-top buses offer a perfect way to take in the sights—snow on the palm trees, anyone?—without exposing yourself to the elements for more than a few seconds. Downstairs stays cozily heated, and even up top, you can bundle in provided blankets while snapping photos.  The full route ticks off all the legendary locations: the glittering Strip, old-school Fremont Street, resort landmarks, and quirky museums. The narrated audio guide shares Vegas stories and local tidbits you might miss on foot—like where to spot the neon signs that glow brightest in the snow. Since you can hop off when you want, it’s easy to jump out for a coffee, catch a quick show, or warm up at a souvenir shop before climbing back aboard. It’s the stress-free, comfy way to check off your Vegas bucket list, even when temperatures drop.  The Neon Museum  There’s something magical about vintage neon signs glowing against a snowy backdrop—and The Neon Museum delivers that dream. This sprawling “boneyard” has rescued legendary signs from old casinos, motels, and roadside haunts, giving them a second life as sculptural art. An expert guide leads you among these luminous relics, sharing Vegas tales that are equal parts glitzy and gritty.  The outdoor yard is atmospheric in any weather, but dusted with snow, it feels even more surreal—bright colors shimmering in the frosty air, retro lights flickering as dusk falls. The smaller indoor gallery offers respite if the cold gets biting, and exhibitions change regularly (you might see a classic Flamingo sign up close or rare artifacts from Vegas’s wild past). The Neon Museum fuses nostalgia, art, and storytelling, making it a one-of-a-kind stop that’s even cooler when the weather gets wintry.    Ready to swap snow boots for showbiz? Whether you’re swooping through the desert canyons, raising a glass in a swanky ice bar, or cozying up amid a swirl of pastries and art, Vegas proves that a snowy day can be just as dazzling as any sun-soaked trip. All you need is a sense of adventure—and maybe a scarf.    Enjoyed this? Check out the best casino hotels on the Strip, and how to get from your flight to your hotel in comfort.   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! 
The Las Vegas Strip at sunset
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Las Vegas in January

Party season may be over but, while Sin City nurses its massive holiday hangover, there are still stacks of fun things to see and do here in the city that quite literally never sleeps. Bonus: it’s less busy than usual, making the Strip and its many attractions much easier to explore. Dive in to our expert guide to discover why you should visit Las Vegas in January. Visiting Las Vegas in January Average Temperature: 48°F • Average Rainfall: 6 days/mth • Average Sunshine: 8 hours/day Being one of the hottest cities in the States doesn’t mean Las Vegas can’t also get chilly, particularly at night when desert temperatures have been known to plummet as dramatically as Celine Dion hitting an unexpected bass note on stage at Caesars Palace. Daytime highs at this time of year are around 57°F which, to be fair, is pretty darn pleasant for January especially when compared to, say, New York. But you might still be left wondering if the locals you see wandering around in shirt sleeves and shorts have been hitting the sauce a little too hard over the holiday season. We recommend layering as a safe bet to cover all bases. Think jeans, top and light jacket during the day with maybe an extra jumper or even a scarf on the chillier evenings, especially if this is when you plan to stroll the Strip to see the Bellagio fountains in action, or the erupting volcano outside the Mirage which, spectacular though it is, is unlikely to warm you up much. It’s a great time to visit Vegas, for many reasons. Such as the January sales: you could easily spend days losing yourself in the supersize malls here (though your bank manager might not thank you for it). Then there are the casinos, restaurants and shows. As Las Vegas is way less busy this time of year, you’ll likely find it much easier to get that reservation at Robuchon, or the best seats in the house for Cirque du Soleil. Flights into Vegas are also traditionally cheaper at this time of year, with most hotels lowering prices too, though note that you should expect a significant hike during the massive Consumer Electronics Show near the start of the month. Things to do in January The holiday party season may be over, and pool season proper won’t start until March, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still find yourself a daybed and chill with cocktails by the pool someplace. Many of the major hotels here have heated pools that remain open throughout winter. These include the main pool at the MGM Grand, the palm-fringed pool deck at ARIA, and Resorts World with its enormous pool deck and infinity pool overlooking the Strip. However, to access others including Mandalay Bay and the Cosmopolitan you’ll need to be a guest, as day passes are unavailable. From relaxing poolside to screaming your head off on some of the planet’s scariest thrill rides, there’s a January activity here to suit all tastes. Take a ride on Insanity, 900 feet above the Strip atop the Strat’s SkyPod observation tower. Soar through the skies on the Fly LINQ Zipline. Loop the loop on the Big Apple Roller Coaster. Or try the relatively sedate (but no less terrifying) High Roller Observation Wheel – at 550 feet, it’s the second highest on the planet. After a couple of days spent enjoying Vegas’s non-stop assault of high-octane rides, high stakes casinos, high-priced steaks and endlessly mesmerizing neon lights, you may find yourself hankering for something a bit more... down to earth. Answer the call of the wild with a hiking trip to Red Rock Canyon, just south of the city. This sprawling conservation area is filled with towering sandstone peaks, waterfalls and Native American petroglyphs, and guided tours of its paths are available. Or steel yourself for a ramble up Mount Charleston, Clark County’s highest. The strenuous 16-hour round-trip to the mountain’s (probably snow-capped) summit is rewarded with unbeatable panoramic views of Death Valley, the Sierra Nevada, and Las Vegas itself. A journey almost as lengthy (but considerably more comfortable) is a coach trip out east of the city to some of the Nevada-Arizona state line’s finest natural and manmade wonders. You can pause at the Hoover Dam for spectacular views of the Colorado River from hundreds of feet up, or drive through the Joshua Tree National Park to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim where further awe-inspiring views await. Heck, why not just combine all three for the ultimate day trip out of Vegas? What’s on in January? One of the surprise treats that awaits visitors to Vegas in January is the proliferation of festive attractions that remain open. Soothe your holiday hangover with a trip to the Glittering Lights extravaganza at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Here, a whopping five million lights (give or take) create a dazzling drive-through show packed with Christmas scenes and Vegas icons. There’s even an accompanying festive radio station to tune into in your car. Meanwhile over at the Bellagio, you still have time (for the first week of January, at least) to view the displays at the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Expect holiday decorations made from flowers and plants, giant polar bears and trees festooned with tinsel and baubles. Head to the Cosmopolitan rooftop for firepits, s’mores and a massive ice-skating rink complete with regular snow flurries. There’s plenty of Christmas spirit left up here and the views of the Paris resort’s neon-lit Eiffel Tower are second to none. Also worth looking out for in January is the parade in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. The biggest in the state, it draws tens of thousands of participants annually, all eager to see its colorful floats and live performances. Hot enough to melt the snow that blankets Mount Charleston’s highest peaks, the AVN Adult Entertainment expo also rolls into town at this time of the year, raising temperatures and offering fan meet and greets with some of the industry’s hottest stars. And if there’s an event more ‘Sin City’ than a porn convention, we’ve yet to hear of it... Save on attractions in Las Vegas Save on admission to Las Vegas attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook for the latest top tips and attraction info.
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Stuart Bak

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