Las Vegas Memorial Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in May

There are endless fun things do in Las Vegas in May, both in the city and the wider Nevada area. Whether you want to party, tick off the big sights or relax at a pool, Las Vegas is a great place to spend Memorial Day weekend.

Published: July 18, 2024
Las Vegas

Looking to get away this Memorial Day Weekend? Consider a trip to sunny Las Vegas. The weather is warm, there's plenty to see and a ton of the popular summer attractions will be up and running, ready for you to enjoy.

So, if you’re looking for Las Vegas Memorial Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities including...

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Tour
  • Hop-on Hop-off Las Vegas Bus Tour
  • Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
  • High Roller Observation Wheel
  • Hoover Dam Tour
  • Eiffel Tower Experience
  • And more!

Save on admission to popular attractions

Regular admission to a number of these attractions is included on Go City® Las Vegas passes. Choose as you go from dozens of Las Vegas attractions & activities and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. 

Please note: Some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed.

Grand Canyon South Rim Tour

grand-canyon-las-vegas

What better way to enjoy the start of summer than with a trip out to one of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders? The Grand Canyon is a marvel to see any time of year, but in the spring and summer months, the greenery is a sight to behold.

Take a bus tour of the South Rim, which boasts many lookout points, museums, Native American artwork, sculptures, and more. Plus, the bus conveniently escorts you directly from Vegas so you don’t need to worry about the hassle of parking (a big relief in the Grand Canyon). 

Getting In: Grand Canyon South Rim Tour tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the Go City® Las Vegas passes.

Hop-on Hop-off Las Vegas Bus Tour

 

If you’re new to the city or haven’t previously seen much beyond the Strip, then a bus tour of Las Vegas is in order. You’ll see many of the top sites throughout the city, from the big hotels on the Strip to the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign, and trendy areas downtown. A hop-on hop-off option is a smart choice, too, because it gives you the flexibility to choose where to stop and explore.

There are two routes to choose from – the Strip Route, and the Downtown Route. Both have buses that run approximately every 20-30 minutes giving you plenty of time to hop off wherever you fancy. 

Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Las Vegas tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas pass.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

welcome-las-vegas-sign-girl-casino

Pay a visit to Las Vegas’ own little slice of Hollywood. A visit to Madame Tussauds is a great option for those who love the glam life and can’t get enough of celebrities and pop culture. Explore several themed areas, from Viva Las Vegas to Music Icons. In addition, several areas focus on majorly popular franchises, like The Hangover films and Marvel Superheroes. 

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

High Roller Observation Wheel

high-roller-night-las-vegasusa

Getting a view from above is always a great idea when you’re talking about a city with a skyline as impressive as Las Vegas. Just picture all the lights, signs, larger-than-life designs, and more –all from the perfect vantage point. Take a ride to the top of the High Roller Observation Wheel for some of the best views in the city.

Enjoy a 30-minute ride up to 550 feet above the ground and snap those perfect Instagram shots. When you're done, explore the LINQ area with its shops, restaurants, and other fun activities. 

Getting In: Las Vegas High Roller Observation Wheel tickets are included with all Go City® Las Vegas passes.

Hoover Dam Tour

looking-atop-hoover-dam

Another great option for getting out of the city and into the beautiful Nevada wilderness is with a trip to the magnificent Hoover Dam. This marvel of modern engineering is a sight to behold and is a can’t-miss attraction for fans of architecture or history. It’s actually a National Historic Landmark and showcases an important time in the history of the American Southwest. 

Insider Tip: walk along the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for the best views and photo ops of the Hoover Dam and Colorado River. 

Getting In: Hoover Dam Tour tickets are included with the Go Las Vegas pass.

Eiffel Tower Experience

las-vegas-architecture-marvels-sky

Enjoy a walk through the most scenic areas in Paris without the hassle or expense of a trans-Atlantic flight. Stroll past magnificent buildings like L’Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and of course, the Eiffel Tower itself. Afterward, ride in an amazing glass elevator to another exhilarating observation deck, where you’ll get panoramic views of everything from the Parisian scene below to the farthest reaches of the Strip. 

Getting In: Eiffel Tower Experience tickets are included on all Go City® Las Vegas passes.

Rockstar Pool Party Tour

Channel your inner rock star with a day spent on the Rockstar Pool Party Tour. It’s the start of summer and the timing couldn’t be better in terms of the weather. Make the most of the Vegas heat and get into some of the coolest pool party clubs on this adults-only excursion. There are tons of pool parties in Vegas, so whatever your vibe, there will be something for you.

Whether you just want to kick back with a cocktail, relax, and work on that tan, or you’re interested in playing some fun watersports with your group - you’ll have the opportunity on this tour. Please note that you must be 21 or older to join this tour. 

Getting In: Las Vegas Rockstar Pool Party Tour tickets are included on all Go City® Las Vegas passes.

Fremont Street Walking Tour

mature-couple-sightseeing-downtown-las-vegas

Another delightful way to explore unique areas of the city is with a walking tour. This Downtown-Fremont Street Walking Tour is a top option because it showcases areas of the city many casual visitors don’t get to see. Enjoy a guided two-hour stroll past top landmarks and attractions like vintage Las Vegas sites, Downtown Container Park, and many shops and restaurants. 

Getting In: Fremont Street Las Vegas Walking Tour tickets are included with the Go City® Las Vegas pass.

Best Dam Barbecue Challenge

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly event – and especially one with great food! – stop by the Annual Best Dam Barbecue Challenge. In addition to an amazing professional team BBQ competition, you’ll also find plenty of food to chow down on - we’re talking everything from shaved ice to pulled pork.

There will also be a wide selection of marketplace vendors offering everything from temporary glitter tattoos to barbecue equipment and more. This event runs around Memorial Day and is held in Boulder City's Bicentennial Park. 

Getting In: Admission to the Best Dam Barbecue Challenge is free.

Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival

Here’s one for your music lovers. Head to the Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival to enjoy their distinctive take on a summer kick-off concert and events. Enjoy multiple bands per day – including massive faves like Madness, Cock Sparrer, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and more – plus bowling, movies, and poker games. It’s probably best for adults.

The festival runs in May and takes place at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center. 

Getting In: The Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival is separately ticketed.

Go Clubbing

Club in Vegas

Of course, Vegas is a great place to have a night out, but even more so during Memorial Day Weekend. All of the clubs have top DJs from around the world bringing the party. There is no shortage of clubs - we're sure you'll have fun!

Getting In: Nightclubs are separately ticketed and are not included with Go City® Las Vegas passes

Save up to 50% on Las Vegas attractions  

Discover our full line-up of Las Vegas attractions, including Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour, Madame Tussauds, VEGAS! The Show, and tons more.

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

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

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Welcome to Las Vegas sign in the sunshine
Blog

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 ā€˜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 ā€˜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
Blog

Top 5 Buffets in Las Vegas

Food, food, and more food. If you didn’t know it already, that’s what Las Vegas is all about (I mean, in addition to the other obvious appeals). I’m talking about the buffets—no Las Vegas vacation is complete without one. Vegas is home to some of the best buffets in the country. People flock from all over to sample the cuisine served up in these celebrated restaurants, which are often located in hotels. At many places, you can try food from all over the world in one meal! And although most buffets have American classics like pizza and ribs, you’ll also find gourmet menus. So whether you’re an adventurous foodie or the burger and fries type, there’s something you’ll love. Choosing the top 5 buffets in Las Vegas is tough, but these 5 represent a variety of styles and are constantly ranked highest among patrons. Just remember, don’t fill up one thing—you’ll want to try small samples of everything...and still save room for dessert! If you're looking to explore Las Vegas a little more in addition to sampling their fine (and not so fine) cuisine, pick up a Los Angeles Explorer PassĀ® to save up to 55% on gate admission prices. Or, choose two or more attractions and save 20%. The Buffet at Bellagio Who could resist that? Possibly the most well-known buffet in Vegas, The Buffet at the Bellagio Resort & Casino serves top-of-the-line cuisine. Bellagio is best known for its gourmet fare and seafood, but they have other stuff, too. The array of foods ranges from choices like Chinese dim sum to foie gras to crab legs to pizza fresh out of the wood-fired oven. The atmosphere is classy, with opulent chandeliers and elegant artwork adorning the dining area. Of course, Bellagio serves dessert, too, but it’s certainly not the highlight of the buffet (most people agree they look better than they taste). But chances are you’ll be pretty full from dinner. Carnival World Buffet How can you choose just one? The Carnival World Buffet at Rio Las Vegas is especially known for 2 things: a kid-friendly menu and absolutely fabulous desserts. The Carnival is probably the best choice if you’re with children because kids will find all their favorites like mac and cheese, hamburgers, hot dogs, and make-your-own milkshakes. However, adults won’t be disappointed, either! The international selection is endless—you can choose from Thai, Chinese, Brazilian, Mexican, Italian, or Vietnamese dishes, and many of them are cooked up right in front of you. The real treat comes last: the dessert course. The Carnival World Buffet has more than 70 varieties of pies and pastries, cakes, and cookies, and a gelato bar! Le Village Buffet/Paris With such a charming setting, how can you go wrong? For a unique dining experience, head to this little slice of Paris. Instead of international cuisine, Le Village Buffet serves up only French fare, with a Vegas twist. The cooking stations are themed to the regions of France, and the dining room is styled like a French village. You’ll enjoy quaint cobblestone walkways, old-fashioned lamp posts, and soft lighting—a rarity in the buffet world—all under a ceiling painted to resemble a blue sky. The menu features options like fruit-filled crepes, seafood or sausage kabobs, prepared duck, quiche, and of course a huge array of cheeses. The dessert station is fantastic, too. The Bananas Foster is a favorite among patrons, as well as the crĆØme brulee and flan. Spice Market Buffet You'll find a dazzling array of choices at this buffet! This worldly buffet is found inside Planet Hollywood and features a huge selection of high-quality international options. They have an especially notable Mexican station, as well as delicious Middle Eastern specialties (a rarity in Buffetland). Other stations include Asian, Italian and Seafood. Spice Market has a straightforward layout that is easy to navigate through—great for hungry buffet-goers trying to maneuver their way to their favorite stations. You’ll also find large plasma TV’s on the walls for viewing sports games or watching music videos. Another plus is the delicious dessert section. They have apples, strawberries, bananas foster, crepes, ice cream, and even cotton candy! Go to Spice Market for a traditional, yet delicious buffet experience. Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station Such a grand atmosphere! The Garden Court Buffet is the definite choice for those on a budget, offering a dinner price nearly half the cost of most other Vegas buffets. It’s popular among locals, making for a comfortable environment in a spacious dining room decked out in Victorian dĆ©cor. Favorites served every day include Mexican, Southwestern, and Asian cuisine, along with pizza and rotisserie chicken. The Garden Court also has specialty days, including T-Bone Tuesday, Seafood Fridays, and a champagne brunch on the weekends. The consensus among patrons is that this place is definitely worth the value—good food, good price, no lines. Remember, if you want to enjoy a few Las Vegas attractions in between delicious meals, the Las Vegas Explorer PassĀ® can save you up to 55%!
Katie Sagal
zipline
Blog

Fly LINQ and Beyond: 10 Free Spots to Explore Nearby

You’ve just soared above Sin City on the Fly LINQ Zipline—and the buzz hasn’t worn off yet. Now what? Well, good news: you’re smack in the center of all the Las Vegas action, surrounded by a surprising amount of free entertainment, quirkiness, and classic Vegas flair. Whether you’re hoping to stretch your legs, soak up some neon, or snap those envy-inducing photos, you don’t need to keep reaching for your wallet. Let us lead the way to the best zero-cost attractions within strolling distance of Fly LINQ—so you can keep your Vegas adventure rolling, and your budget intact.  Our favorite free things to do near Fly LINQ include:  LINQ Promenade Stroll & Photo Ops  Flamingo Wildlife Habitat  Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens  Bellagio Fountains Show  Caesars Palace Forum Shops  Street Performers on the Strip  The Mirage Volcano  The Cosmopolitan Art Program  Welcome to Las Vegas Sign  The Park Las Vegas  LINQ Promenade Stroll & Photo Ops  Start your post-zipline adventure right on the LINQ Promenade. This lively pedestrian mall offers a fun, immersive Vegas experience—no ticket required. It’s packed with public art, fabulous light installations, and people-watching opportunities galore. Pose for a snap under the vibrant High Roller observation wheel, or dig into the interactive mural featuring Vegas icons. At night, festival-style string lights and LED displays bring a party vibe that’s pure Strip magic.  The Promenade pulses with street performers, live music, and (if your timing’s lucky) spontaneous dance-offs or magic tricks. Local shops and pop-ups line the walkway, primed for browsing—or simply window-shopping. With energetic crowds, top-notch selfie spots, and the thrill of being in the very thick of Vegas, you’ll savor the buzz without spending a dime.  Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens  Step into a wonderland of themed blooms, whimsical topiary, and intricate floral displays in the Bellagio’s Conservatory, just a quick stroll down the Strip. This sunny glass atrium transforms with the seasons—think Chinese New Year dragons, cherry blossom trees, or autumn harvest festivals—each display more jaw-dropping than the last.  What’s the vibe? Think fairytale meets art installation, with creative arrangements that beg for photos. Crowds mingle in awe, craning necks to spot hidden details—a fairy here, a surprise waterfall there. Green-thumbed staff work tirelessly to dream up new creations, so you can visit every few months and always catch something new. The price for all this fragrant, floral joy? Zero.  Bellagio Fountains Show  Stay outside after touring the Conservatory, because the Bellagio Fountains are one of Vegas’ most mesmerizing freebies. Every half-hour (or more often in the evenings), jets of water leap, sway, and twirl in a perfectly choreographed ‘dance’ to music—from Sinatra classics to Broadway showstoppers.  There’s a reason crowds always gather along the lakeside railings, phones held high: the spectacle is hypnotic. The atmosphere is joyful—every show, from afternoon sunlight to nighttime luminosity, offers something a little different. The gentle mist, thunderous crescendos, and sparkling lights make it a mood-lifter and memory-maker. Even if you’ve seen it before, you’ll want to stay for one more song.  Caesars Palace Forum Shops  You don’t need a credit card to explore the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Highlights inside this “shopping mall meets Roman fantasyland” include free animatronic shows at the Fall of Atlantis (expect fire effects, talking statues, and mythological drama) and photo ops galore—think grand fountains, marble columns, and painted blue skies above.  The ambiance is grand and slightly surreal; you’ll find yourself wandering winding avenues flanked by marble gods and goddesses. Window-shopping here feels like touring a palatial film set. Keep an eye out for pop-up art installations and free samples from gourmet vendors.  Street Performers on the Strip  Looking for unpredictable antics, music, and laughs? The Strip between Flamingo Road and Caesars Palace bursts alive with street performers. Catch everything from dazzling magicians to costumed superheroes ready for photos, all for the price of a smile (tips appreciated, but never required to watch).  Each night, new acts shuffle in, keeping the entertainment fresh—sometimes you’ll spot dance troupes with boom boxes, other times you’ll find living statues or circus-style stilt walkers. The vibe is playful and wacky, true to the anything-can-happen ethos of Vegas.  The Mirage Volcano  When the sun sets, make your way to The Mirage front entrance for the free volcano show. Plumes of real fire, rumbling bass, and brightly-lit fountains combine for a thrilling mini-spectacle, with eruptions happening several times nightly.  Watching the faux-lava rage against the backdrop of glamorous hotels is uniquely Vegas. Crowds gather early for the best views, and the show’s special effects produce both warmth and a rush few free attractions can match.  The Cosmopolitan Art Program  For a dose of high-concept creativity, pop into The Cosmopolitan’s lobby and public spaces to experience their rotating art exhibitions. Larger-than-life digital installations, interactive sculptures, and modern design pieces fill the halls—and all are free to explore.  What sets this apart? You’ll stumble upon unexpected artistic gems: digital columns that shift and change, giant installations by world-class creatives, even quirky touches in the parking garage (keep your eyes peeled for the famous Art-o-mat vending machine). It’s an artsy escape from the rush outside and proves Vegas is just as creative as it is glittery.  The Park Las Vegas  Last but not least, take a scenic stroll down The Park, a landscaped promenade stretching between New York-New York and Park MGM. Desert-inspired gardens, art installations, and shaded swings make for a chill hangout, while interactive water features add a splash of fun (quite literally, if you venture close).  Live music events fill the schedule, especially in the evenings—check local listings or just see who’s strumming on the next corner. Grab a spot under the trees, enjoy a free light show when the sun dips, and revel in the fact that some of the best moments in Vegas come without a price tag.    Strapped for cash but rich in curiosity? The area around Fly LINQ proves no city does free fun quite like Las Vegas. From fiery spectacles and tranquil gardens to world-class art and classic street scenes, your Strip adventure starts here—no wallet required.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to beating the Vegas heat, and what to do when the sun goes down.  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.