High-Flying Thrills & Downtown Gems Near The STRAT

Published: March 18, 2026
girl enjoying vegas in the summer sun

Planning a trip to Las Vegas with The Tower at the STRAT on your hit list? We totally get it—the views from the top are unforgettable, and the thrill rides aren’t for the faint of heart. But the neighborhood around The STRAT offers so much more than vertigo-inducing vistas! This part of Vegas serves up a fresh mix of old-school glitz and surprise gems, from gravity-defying roller coasters and retro neon museums to trendy cafés, immersive shows, and local secrets you won’t find on the standard Strip itinerary. Whether you’re craving non-stop action, a taste of downtown character, or a night you’ll never forget, we’ve got you. Here are our favorite picks for things to do near The STRAT Tower! 

Our top picks near The Tower at the STRAT include: 

The Neon Museum 

The Mob Museum 

Fremont Street Experience 

Madame Tussauds 

Fly LINQ Zipline 

Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade 

High Roller Observation Wheel 

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour 

The Neon Museum: Vegas History Brightly Lit 

Love retro vibes? The Neon Museum is a time machine of preserved neon signage, each piece with its own wild story from Vegas’s golden ages. The boneyard stretches across a sandy lot just a short drive from The STRAT—and wandering through it feels like stepping into a living postcard. From towering old casino signs to quirky motel logos, the colors and shapes will keep your camera and Instagram busy. What really makes this place shine are the guided tours—full of jaw-dropping tales about the characters who made Vegas flicker and sparkle. 

Twinkle even brighter by visiting at dusk for the museum’s special night tours. Some of the signs flicker to life after dark, bathing you in the coolest light show off the main Strip. It’s all a bit nostalgic, totally unique, and gives you a new appreciation for Las Vegas’s larger-than-life persona. 

The Mob Museum: Las Vegas’ Notorious Side

Just a few minutes downtown from The STRAT, you’ll find The Mob Museum, officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. Las Vegas owes a fair bit of its personality to its colorful gangland past, and this museum plunges you into that history—with all the suspense of a classic crime thriller. 

Spread across four immersive floors, you’ll see everything from bullet-riddled wall panels to vintage wiretaps. Interactive exhibits let you solve crimes or test a police siren; there’s even a speakeasy-style basement bar where you can sample Prohibition-era cocktails. Our favorite feature? The atmosphere—it’s cool, a little mysterious, and packed with stories that make Vegas what it is today. Whether you’re a history buff or just want a taste of something different, The Mob Museum is a can’t-miss close to The STRAT. 

Fremont Street Experience: Classic Vegas (with Extras) 

If you’re all about glitz, live music, and a dash of classic casino energy, head over to the Fremont Street Experience. Located a quick ride from The STRAT, this open-air promenade packs old-school Vegas character alongside stunning light shows and live entertainment. The real standout is the Viva Vision canopy—an enormous LED screen overhead that bursts into life every hour with whirling lights, music, and animations. 

We love Fremont for its street performers, zippy zipline, and the endless array of bars and eateries with open patios. There’s a constant buzz, whether you’re indulging in late-night snacks or dancing to a cover band while neon flashes overhead. Pro tip: check out the vintage casinos for that timeless Rat Pack aesthetic, or strike a selfie beneath the neon cowgirl, Vegas Vic. It’s an all-senses celebration of everything Vegas does best. 

Madame Tussauds: Snap Selfies with A-List Stars 

Ever dreamed of posing alongside Lady Gaga, Elvis, or Shaq? Madame Tussauds, located at The Venetian near The STRAT, is the next best thing to a backstage Vegas pass. The wax figures are impressively lifelike, arranged in immersive sets perfect for your next album cover-worthy shot. 

Get up close with music icons, legendary athletes, and superhero favorites—all ready for your freshest poses. They’re not roped off behind velvet cords, so you can get that all-important ‘BFFs in Vegas’ brag photo. The Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience and themed rooms like Club Tussauds ensure something fun for everyone, whether you’re traveling with family or ready for girls’ night out. With its blend of star power and playful ambiance, Madame Tussauds is an irresistible pit stop just minutes from The STRAT. 

Fly LINQ Zipline: Thrill Above The Strip 

Ready for an adrenaline shot? Head to Fly LINQ, the only zipline on the Las Vegas Strip, located a quick drive from The STRAT Tower. Here, you’ll gear up and soar Superman-style over the LINQ Promenade, buzzing above shoppers, restaurants, and live acts. 

The zipline launches over 10 stories up, offering a 1,121-foot ride with wild views of the city’s brightest attractions. Whether you go solo or race your friends down parallel lanes, the wind-in-your-hair, city-lights-below moment is pure Vegas fun. In our book, it’s the ultimate way to see the Strip—and it pairs perfectly with a sweet treat or street show at the bottom. 

Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Treat Yourself 

Switch things up from neon-lit dazzle to sweet indulgence at Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade. This spot channels cheerful Parisian energy, serving up decadent crepes, rich gelato, and coffee drinks you’ll want to linger over. 

Signature offerings like the Tiramisu Crepe and classic Croque Monsieur sandwich land on tables with a playful sigh of powdered sugar. The vibe is bright, modern, and undeniably friendly, with outdoor seating for prime people-watching on the bustling promenade. It’s an excellent spot to refuel after conquering the zipline or before a night on the Strip. 

High Roller Observation Wheel: Sky-High Chill Time 

Want unbeatable views without quite so much heart-stopping action? The High Roller Observation Wheel, just a short trip from The STRAT, lifts you 550 feet above the Las Vegas Strip in spacious, glass-enclosed pods. Picture this: your group steps in, the doors glide shut, and you float up for a 30-minute revolution with scenery that just keeps on giving. 

We love the High Roller for its leisurely pace and unbeatable photo ops. Every pod offers panoramic vistas—look out over dazzling hotels, the desert mountains, and the sprawl of downtown, all with the twinkle of Strip lights below. Daytime brings crisp blue skies and a sense of just how far Vegas stretches, but after dark? The city really puts on a show. 

Want to kick it up a notch? Book a pod with an open bar for a “happy half-hour” spin—yes, you can toast your Vegas experience 500 feet above the action! Friendly staff, groovy playlists, and a relaxed vibe make it a stand-out whether you’re celebrating or just chilling out. Unforgettable group selfies are practically guaranteed. 

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour: Your Vegas “Best-Of” Sampler

If you want to see more of Las Vegas without racking up those step counts or figuring out the monorail, the Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour is a smooth solution. This open-top, double-decker bus cruises all the Strip essentials and best downtown stops—including, conveniently, The STRAT Tower itself. 

Hop on at any stop and ride as long as you like: snap great photos of legendary hotels, get tips from live guides, and jump off when something tempts you. We especially recommend using the bus to survey all the must-sees, then circling back to favorite neighborhoods for a proper explore. 

There’s a breezy, vacation-ready feel on the upper deck, and the playlist of stories about Las Vegas history and hot spots is spot-on. Perfect for newcomers wanting a little bit of everything—or for anyone who loves their sightseeing old-school style with bonus sunshine. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses! 

Wrap-Up 

Ready to put The Tower at the STRAT at the center of your Las Vegas adventure? The thrills at the top are just the start! Down at street level, you’ll find glowing history, quirky museums, outdoor fun, sweet treats, and unmissable classic Vegas energy—often just a few blocks away. So grab those tickets, bring your curiosity, and get ready to stack your trip with unforgettable stories and sky-high selfies. Vegas is waiting! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to an unforgettable birthday in the Strip, and our picks of Vegas’ best casinos! 

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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Legendary Las Vegas Sundays: Fun from Sunrise to Sunset

Sundays in Las Vegas are nothing short of legendary. The city hums with energy—brunch spots fill up, pool parties pump out summer vibes, and both thrill rides and relaxed strolls are just steps away. Whether you woke up early or are rolling in after a late Saturday, there’s no wrong way to dive into a Vegas Sunday. Get ready to fill your day with food, adventure, art, and those over-the-top moments you’ll never forget. Let’s unlock the best that Sin City serves up at the end of the week!  Here’s our hit list of what to do for the ultimate Sunday in Las Vegas:  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Las Vegas Downtown - Fremont St. Walking Tour  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Fly LINQ Zipline  The Neon Museum  The Tower at the STRAT  Wow – The Vegas Spectacular  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour  Explore Downtown Arts District  High Roller Observation Wheel: See Vegas from New Heights  There’s no better way to start (or finish) your Vegas Sunday than with a spin on the High Roller, the tallest observation wheel in North America. As your glass pod slowly ascends to 550 feet, you’ll soak up dazzling 360-degree views of the Strip, desert mountains, and, if you’re lucky, a sky painted pink by the Nevada sunset. Sunday mornings offer a peaceful vibe—perfect for snapping photos without the night crowd, while evenings bring a touch of sparkle as the whole city glows below you.  The pods are spacious and air-conditioned, so you’ll stay comfortable as you rotate above Vegas. For those after a little extra excitement, some cabins even feature open bars with a dedicated bartender (hello, Sunday Funday with a view!). Kids and adults alike can’t resist pointing out landmarks and watching the fountains at the Bellagio dance in the distance. It’s an experience that lets you see the city from a fresh angle—literally! Whether you’re planning a romantic Sunday treat or capping off a family adventure, the High Roller delivers that “wow” in a mellow, memorable way.  The Mob Museum: Dive into Sin City’s Juicy Past  Ever wondered about the real stories behind the glitz of Vegas? Head to The Mob Museum in Downtown Las Vegas for an immersive, interactive look into the underworld that helped shape the city. Set inside a beautifully restored 1930s courthouse, this museum packs each floor with secrets—think speakeasy vibes, daring heists, and the suitcases stuffed with cash.  The exhibits are nothing like your old school history class. You’ll explore hands-on displays, try your hand at cracking safe codes, and see genuine artifacts that belonged to infamous mobsters. Don’t miss the distillery in the basement, where you can sample house-made moonshine and cocktails (Sunday, sorted!). The Mob Museum makes Las Vegas history truly exciting, mixing fact, scandal, and intrigue. It’s a reminder that every roll of the dice here has a story attached. Plus, the museum’s location puts you within strolling distance of legendary Fremont Street, so your adventure can continue as soon as you step outside.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Gourmet Sundays Done Right  When Sunday brunch is calling, Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe delivers the goods. This cozy, French-inspired spot hits the sweet spot with colorful pastries, decadent cakes, and some of the most photogenic breakfast spreads in Vegas. Walk up to the counter and you’ll be instantly tempted—think dreamy cruffins, airy croissants, and chic eclairs alongside freshly brewed coffee and creamy lattes.  The café’s vibe is modern and relaxed, with plenty of sunlight and friendly staff who are happy to help you choose between their signature tiramisu mille-feuille and pistachio Paris-Brest (pro tip: don’t skip either). Take your treats outside to the LINQ Promenade’s patio, where you can people-watch beneath the shadow of the High Roller. Sweet Sin makes for an ideal late breakfast, mid-afternoon treat, or sugar-fueled pit stop between adventures.  Fly LINQ Zipline: Soar above The Strip  If a shot of adrenaline is your go-to wake-up call, the Fly LINQ Zipline is ready. Strap in, launch feet-first from 12 stories up, and see Vegas like a superhero as you zip over the crowds right along the bustling promenade. The ride only lasts a minute, but it’s one you’ll remember for the rest of your trip—wind in your hair, heart pounding, and that unbeatable feeling of soaring high above it all.  This is the perfect activity for friends or families, and there’s no need to wait for the weekend to catch a thrill. Vegas is all about seeing and being seen, and up here, you’ll get the best view in town (plus plenty of cheering from people below). The launch deck is alive with anticipation, and the ride delivers a pure hit of Sunday excitement. Bonus: when you land, you’re just steps from food and shopping at the LINQ or a quick ride on the High Roller.  The Neon Museum: Where Vintage Vegas Glows  Nothing captures the spirit of Las Vegas quite like its neon. The Neon Museum is where old Vegas lives on—one glowing, flickering, artfully restored sign at a time. Wander the funky “Neon Boneyard,” where nearly 200 signs from classic casinos and motels sit side by side, and you’ll quickly see why this is one of the most photographed spots in the city.  Guided tours share all the quirky stories behind these electric relics, and the museum’s laidback outdoor setting is perfect for a Sunday stroll. From stardust to Stardust, each sign is a work of art and a little slice of Vegas history. Visit during the day to see the details up close, or come just before sunset for that golden hour glow—it’s a photographer’s dream. The Neon Museum is conveniently close to downtown, and pairing it with the Mob Museum or a Fremont Street trip will give you the best of old and new-school Vegas all in one Sunday.  The Tower at the STRAT: Thrills with a View  Ready for a panoramic adventure? The observation deck at The STRAT is the tallest in Vegas, and the views go on for miles. It’s the starting point of epic selfies, sweeping cityscapes, and a sky-high Sunday experience that’s as relaxing or daring as you want to make it.  If you’re feeling brave, test your nerves on the rides at the very top: Insanity spins you out over the edge, X-Scream teeters on the sky, and Big Shot catapults you into the clouds. Feel like keeping both feet firmly on the ground? Grab a drink from the 108 Drinks lounge, settle into a window-front seat, and watch the sky change colors as the sun drops behind Red Rock Canyon. There’s something magical about seeing the Strip light up from above—and The STRAT is the place to witness it.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour: See It All Without the Hassle  Craving a relaxed, flexible way to discover the Strip and beyond? The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour is your ticket to stress-free sightseeing. Take a seat on the open-top deck, pop on your headphones for the guided commentary, and cruise from one landmark to the next at your own pace. The Sunday vibe is unhurried—enjoy the breeze as you pass classic hotels, record-breaking roller coasters, grand fountains, and street performers galore.  The beauty here is freedom: jump off to visit Caesars Palace, take a selfie with the Venetian’s canals, or grab lunch at one of the Strip’s glittering buffets. Snap photos along the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign or wander into themed casinos for a little roulette or window shopping. Buses run frequently, so there’s never a rush, and you’ll see loads of Vegas’s most famous sights without breaking a sweat or losing your place in line. It’s the easiest way to give your feet (and your wallet) a little break while still getting the most out of the city.  Explore the Downtown Arts District: Local Flavor & Creativity  If you’re looking for a more offbeat Sunday experience, stroll through the Las Vegas Arts District between Charleston and Wyoming Avenue. This creative neighborhood serves up indie shops, vibrant street murals, quirky art galleries, and some of the friendliest brunch spots in the city. The vibe is relaxed and refreshing—a real local favorite.  Start by grabbing a nitro cold brew at Makers & Finders, a Latin coffee bar with a buzzing patio and hearty breakfast options like arepas or the ever-popular lomo saltado hash. Then hit the side streets to admire colorful murals (perfect for snapping next-level selfies), browse Mid Mod vintage furniture stores, or drop into Arts Factory for ever-changing exhibitions from local artists. You might stumble upon a pop-up craft market, live painting sessions, or acoustic performances out in the sun.  Ready to Own Your Las Vegas Sunday?  From sky-high spins to gourmet treats, dazzling shows, and hidden neighborhoods, Las Vegas knows exactly how to turn Sunday into something unforgettable. Pick a few favorites from our list, mix big thrills with leisurely strolls, and treat yourself to the Sunday you deserve in the world’s most entertaining city.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to Vegas at night, and the best ways to get to the Strip from the airport.  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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What to Do in Las Vegas This January – Ultimate Guide

Think Las Vegas is just for summer? January proves the city’s magic shines year-round. Cooler weather invites you to wander without breaking a sweat, hotel deals are plentiful, and the city’s famous shows, quirky museums, vibrant nightlife and jaw-dropping experiences are all on the menu. Whether you’re a foodie, a thrill-seeker, an art lover or a casino novice, January in Vegas means fewer crowds and more freedom to explore. Get ready—these top picks will help you plan your best winter getaway ever.  Our top things to do in Las Vegas this January include:  The Mob Museum  High Roller Observation Wheel  KA by Cirque du Soleil  The Neon Museum  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  The Big Apple Roller Coaster  Madame Tussauds Las Vegas  Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  minus5° "Cool Experience" at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art  The Mob Museum: Dive Into Sin City’s Wild Past  History in Las Vegas doesn’t stay behind velvet ropes—and at The Mob Museum, you step right into the action. Located inside a former courthouse downtown, this place dishes up real stories about organized crime and law enforcement with a big side of drama. Picture this: you’re holding a tommy gun (don’t worry, it’s just a simulation), solving Prohibition-era mysteries, or peering at a real bullet-riddled wall from the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.  What makes The Mob Museum a must in January? You can explore comfortably inside, escaping chilly winds, and dive into everything from interactive exhibits to sneaky speakeasy cocktails in the basement bar. The vibe is immersive—think moody lighting, suspenseful stories, and plenty of “did you know?” trivia to take home. We always leave feeling like we’ve unearthed Vegas’ coolest secrets.  High Roller Observation Wheel: Sky-High Views Without the Frostbite  January days are brisk, but the best place to see Vegas is still above it all. Enter the High Roller, the largest observation wheel in North America. Each climate-controlled pod whisks you 550 feet skyward for 30 minutes of panoramic views across the Strip, downtown, and (on clear days) the distant mountains dusted with snow.  You’ll love the champagne-fueled Happy Half-Hour cabins or the mellow vibe of a daytime ride—there’s no bad seat or bad moment here. As the sun sets early in winter, the city’s neon pops against the dusk, making those vacation photos next-level. Whether your travel crew is all about Instagram or just wants a romantic pause above the buzz, the High Roller delivers.  The Neon Museum: Where Vegas Legends Keep Glowing  Ever wonder where the Strip’s old signs go to retire? The Neon Museum collects, conserves, and celebrates those iconic Vegas lights in its fabulous ‘Neon Boneyard.’ Wandering the outdoor space in January means pleasant strolling weather, shimmering sunsets, and a chance to see dozens of restored signs flicker to life in the twilight.  Guided tours turn the experience into a living history lesson—your guide will share stories about long-gone casinos and local legends, giving extra sparkle to every bulb. After dark, special illuminated tours let you see the signs in action. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the art, grit, and glitz that make Vegas, well, Vegas.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade: Warm Treats, Sweet Vibes  There’s no winter chill that a freshly baked treat can’t fix. Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe is a favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth—or anyone who just wants to recharge between adventures. Tucked along the bustling LINQ Promenade, this spot specializes in authentic Italian pastries, decadent cookies, and inventive cupcakes.  We especially love their tiramisu cups and Nutella-filled bomboloni (a kind of Italian doughnut that’s pure happiness). Their cozy, retro-chic décor and the aroma of coffee make it impossible to resist popping in. Grab a table by the window for people-watching, or swing by in the morning for a pastry and strong espresso before exploring nearby attractions like the High Roller.  Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Make Winter Memories with Celebrities  Madame Tussauds is where “star-studded” gets literal. Home to lifelike wax figures of the world’s most famous faces—from Elvis to Zendaya, Marvel heroes to classic Vegas legends—this is your chance to pose, snap, and laugh with friends (and maybe trick your Instagram followers).  It’s all indoors, which means perfect weather every time you visit. What makes it special is the interactivity: whether you want to DJ with Steve Aoki, sit behind the president’s desk, or belt out a tune with RuPaul, you’re encouraged to bring your A-game. The sets are immersive, colorful, and designed for fun, so don’t be shy about getting goofy with your favorites.  Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour: See Where It All Began  While the Strip sparkles with newness, Fremont Street holds Vegas’ vintage soul. A guided walking tour here delivers wild stories about early casinos, neon art, and mobster run-ins. Guides provide insider tales as you stroll past historic sites, dazzling light shows, hidden speakeasies, and quirky artwork.  January brings cooler weather—perfect for walking—and the chance to explore under the legendary Viva Vision canopy without dodging the summer crowds. You’ll get insider tips on the best drinks, food, and secret photo ops. Every corner promises a story, a surprise, or just a laugh you’ll remember long after you leave.  minus5° "Cool Experience" at the Venetian Canal Shoppes: Chill Out…Literally!  Vegas in January might be cool, but minus5° takes things down another notch—right to subzero. Don a (provided!) parka, step into a shimmering ice lounge where even the glasses are carved from ice, and channel your inner Yukon explorer. The entire bar is a frosty work of art, perfect for photo ops and stories to tell back home.  Ambient lighting, pumping music, and chilly cocktails make this more than just a novelty. It’s a genuinely fun way to escape the ordinary—and maybe even the Strip’s occasional winter drizzle. The friendly staff keep spirits (and libations) high, while themed rooms offer surprises around every icy corner.  Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art: Warm Up With World-Class Culture  Last but never least, step into the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art for a dose of sophistication and warmth. Rotating exhibitions showcase masterpieces from renowned museums and private collections, so there’s always something new—a Picasso one month, Warhol or Monet the next.  The gallery’s tranquil setting is a contrast to the casino’s energy just outside. Art buffs love the clear, beautifully curated displays, while casual visitors find plenty to enjoy thanks to insightful wall texts and staff happy to answer questions. It’s a refreshing escape from the clamor of the Strip and a reminder that Vegas has an artistic side well worth exploring. Winter is an ideal time to visit: crowds are lighter, so you can linger in front of your favorite pieces, soak up inspiration, and even catch thought-provoking gallery talks or events if your timing is right. The whole experience feels calming and a little bit glamorous—especially if you pair it with a stroll through the Bellagio’s lush Conservatory next door, dressed up in dazzling winter blooms.  Plan Your Best January in Vegas  January in Las Vegas just hits differently—think comfortable jackets and cozy cafes, world-class entertainment, and a buzz that never sleeps. While the pool scene takes a pause, fresh adventures step into the spotlight: indoor thrills, creative dining, and opportunities to explore the city's luminous history and vibrant present.  Whether you’re marveling at twinkling neon, floating above the skyline, or tasting your way through a bakery showcase, Vegas in January proves there’s no such thing as an “off season” here—just a new way to experience the city’s endless energy. Ready for a winter getaway you’ll talk about all year? Let Vegas surprise you.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the Strip at night, and how to celebrate a birthday in 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! 
Spectators watching the Bellagio Fountains by night.
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Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions Comparison

Caesars Palace and the Bellagio are two of the titans of the Las Vegas Strip, each with close to 4,000 rooms and oodles of high-end bars, restaurants, shops, pools, spas and more. That, fact fans, puts both comfortably inside the top 10 most supersized hotels in town (and inside the top 20 on the entire planet). But which is better? There’s only one way to find out! We pitted these two Sin City heavyweights against each other to find out how their many and varied attractions measure up. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: The Must-Sees In terms of the kind of must-see attractions that will leave your Insta followers green with envy, it’s fair to say the Bellagio is your best bet. Sure, Caesars has a certain allure, thanks to its flamboyant Greco-Roman style architecture, Corinthian columns, winged statues, fountains and 20-foot likeness of Augustus Caesar. Strip first-timers are sure to adore its old-school glitz, while movie mavens will enjoy re-enacting scenes from the likes of Dream Girls and The Hangover, both of which were filmed here. But does it have its own fine art museum and botanical garden? It does not. And that’s before we even get started on the Bellagio’s world-renowned fountain show... Surely the biggest and best free show in town, this watery extravaganza sees skyscraping jets of balletic water swaying in time with classical music belters and modern pop bangers, and runs at regular intervals from 3PM to midnight daily. Head inside to take a peek at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, with ever-changing exhibitions that have included works by some of the biggest names in 20th-century art, among them Picasso, Warhol and Lichtenstein. There are yet more blooming wonderful works of art on display in the Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. These colorful and hopelessly flamboyant horticultural displays change with the seasons and culminate in a hugely camp and over-the-top festive spectacular at year’s end. Meanwhile, Dale Chihuly’s vibrant glass Fiori di Como sculpture (pictured above) is in bloom year round, and dominates the Bellagio’s main lobby area. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: Entertainment and Nightlife Make no mistake: Caesars Palace is an absolute titan of the Las Vegas entertainment scene. It’s legendary Colosseum theater has hosted performances and residences from some near-mythical music makers over the years. We’re talking Frank Sinatra, Madonna, Elton John, Celine Dion and the mighty Liberace. Add to this the epic Omnia nightclub, 75,000 square feet of multi-level dancefloors with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and an awesome 11-ton kinetic chandelier centerpiece, and you have the beginnings of quite the evening out. They love a bit of water-based entertainment over at the Bellagio so, in addition to those dancing fountains, Cirque du Soleil’s resident show takes place over a 1.5-million-gallon pool. O – pronounced ‘eau’ not ‘oh’, darling – has been wowing audiences with synchronized swimming, daredevil diving and various other acrobatics since the hotel opened in 1998. It’s good, but it’s not quite Sinatra, so the smart money’s on Caesars in this round. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: Having a Flutter Opened way back in 1966, Caesars Palace is the place to catch some genuine old-school vibes, with 1,324 slot machines (at last count) on which to try your luck, as well as 185 table games that keep it real with classics like roulette, blackjack and Texas hold ‘em poker. High rollers hit up the Bellagio for up-to-the-minute slot games. There are more than 2,300 reel, video reel and video poker games on the casino’s slot floor as well as, of course, the usual glut of table games, many of which can be played in the exclusive high-limit lounge. Sports fans are in for a treat at both hotels. The Caesars sportsbook is an absolute corker with a whopping 143-foor HD screen while the Bellagio’s mammoth venue has multiple (not-quite-as-big) screens and around 100 individual racing monitors. We’re talking two of the very best betting facilities in the West here, so you’re not really taking much of a gamble by choosing one over the other. Let’s call it evens. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: Bars & Restaurants Neither hotel is short of a celebrity chef. Nor indeed a cocktail lounge or six. Whether you’re in the market for a prime steak filet, gourmet Italian food, a flamboyant floral cocktail or, you know, just a decent cup of joe, Caesars and the Bellagio have you more than well covered, with something like 50 bars and restaurants between them. The Bellagio just edges it in terms of sheer number and variety of eateries but – in-keeping with its overarching bacchanalian theme – Caesars has more (and better) bars. Caesars highlights include celebrity hotspots like Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen with its decadent signature beef wellington, and the foliage-festooned Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, where you can sip – if you’re feeling brave enough – on imaginatively named drinks including Checkmate Bitch, Cold Blooded and Puff the Magic Dragon. Smokin’! Meanwhile at the Bellagio it’s all about late-night liquor in the lavish Lily Lounge overlooking the casino floor. Take a break for steak at PRIME or dine in style at Wolfgang Puck’s flagship Spago restaurant, directly overlooking the Strip and dancing Bellagio fountains. Odds are that, again, you’ll have a good time in either hotel. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: Shopping It should perhaps go without saying that a city that effectively exists for big spenders and high rollers is going to have some of the best shopping on the planet. But prices are often not for the faint-hearted. That’s perhaps especially true along elegant Via Bellagio, where luxury designer brand after luxury designer brand will have your bank manager coming out in a cold sweat in no time at all. We’re talking – deep breath – Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Prada and Valentino, to name just a few. Perfect, in other words, if you’ve recently won big on the craps tables. The shopping at Caesars Palace is an altogether more extravagant affair, with around 200 chic boutiques and speciality stores. Here, amid soaring marble columns, Romanesque courtyards, burbling fountains and statues including a life-sized replica of Michelangelo’s David, you’ll find more of the world’s biggest fashion brands, as well as high-end chocolates, glittering jewelry and unique Vegas souvenirs. For those reasons, we’re betting on Caesars for the win in this round. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions: R’n’R An afternoon spent sipping margaritas and people-watching by the pool should be considered all but essential on any Vegas vacation. Set around Mediterranean-style courtyards strewn with luxurious cabanas and daybeds, the Bellagio’s five pools are ideal for just such an activity. Caesars ups the ante in its modestly monikered Garden of the Gods, where epic Romanesque columns, statues and fountains surround seven pools. Have a flutter at the Fortuna pool’s five swim-up blackjack tables, take the kids for a splash at Jupiter pool or join the all-day bacchanalia at Neptune. If you prefer to spend your day mostly horizontal, you can even have a massage in your poolside cabana courtesy of the hotel’s sprawling Qua Spa. Our verdict? Caesars seizes the crown in the R’n’R stakes. Caesars Palace vs Bellagio Hotel Attractions Comparison: Conclusion So, while the Bellagio is where it’s at in terms of sheer visual spectacle and must-see attractions including the Bellagio fountains, Museum of Fine Art and Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Caesars Palace more than holds its own in many of the other categories, notably entertainment, nightlife and the kind of extravagant pool scene that would make Caligula himself blush. Save on attractions in Las Vegas Save on admission to Las Vegas attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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