Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling

This list of things to do in Las Vegas will give you activities to do besides gambling. A Las Vegas vacation can be for anyone looking to take a break in the desert. Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas shows are constantly evolving. This list is not about the endless amount of shows you could see.

As you walk the Las Vegas strip and choose your own adventure, consider these activities. While this list is centered on the strip, know that there is so much more to Las Vegas. Instead of throwing money at the casino to see what sticks, consider educating yourself at museums or playing Vegas by driving a supercar. Here is a list of things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling:

Pinball Hall of Fame

Get your quarters ready for something besides gambling: pinball. Located near the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign,” this low-key building showcases the largest pinball collection to the public. With everything from Atarti to Game of Thrones or Ms. Pacman, you are bound to find a pinball game for you. While this is “on the strip,” this building is not your typical Las Vegas facility designed so you never leave. You will not find food or alcohol here, just vending machines, so plan accordingly.

National Atomic Testing Museum

Nevada was a testing ground for atomic weapons, impacting the world as we know it. The National Atomic Testing Museum is a way to educate yourself on Las Vegas history instead of gambling. This museum shares the history and development of a nuclear bomb, propaganda from the era, and shares a simulated blast in the Ground Zero theater. While learning about nuclear history and downwinders can be a heavier subject, a trip to Nevada is not complete without first understanding how we got here.

The Adventuredome

Located inside Circus Circus, you will find an indoor theme park filled with double-loop roller coasters, bumper cars, and theater rides. Less adrenaline pumping rides are available as well, including carousels, skee-ball and other games you would typically find at your local state fair (minus the sunburn). Be aware that this entire building is circus themed, so you may want to stay away if you have not conquered your aversion to clowns.

Tournament of Kings

Have a Las Vegas dinner and show all in one at the Tournament of Kings. This is loosely based on the tale of King Arthur, where knights fight as you eat dinner with your hands. This is a theater-in-the-round style show that you should experience at least once in your life. Dinner is typically a roasted Cornish game hen with potatoes and corn on the cob.  Be sure to request any dietary needs when booking your tickets. If you really do not want to eat there, you can purchase tickets to the dinnerless show.

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The Big Apple Coaster

Located inside the New York-New York Hotel, the Big Apple Coaster is an exciting way to spend time in Las Vegas. Purchase an all-day ride pass if you want to ride the coaster more than once. This ride goes upside down and has a 203ft drop, so this is better for people who like roller coasters. Place your belongings in a locker before you stand in line as purses or other loose items are not allowed. Lockers can be rented by the hour right at the coaster entrance. After your ride, play skee-ball or air hockey at the Big Apple Arcade.

Madame Tussauds

If you have never been to the infamous Madame Tussauds, this will be a must on your Las Vegas vacation. Located at the Venetian hotel, this wax museum is full of your favorite lifelike celebrities. Take a selfie with your favorite celebrity, shoot hoops with Shaq, or pose with Britney. Finish your time with a drink at the Hangover Experience Bar, where you can find Mike Tyson and a tiger in the bathroom.

Monster Mini Golf

Located near the Rio Las Vegas, this is an indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf course in Las Vegas. Dedicated to the band KISS, you will all find a live DJ and KISS museum here. In addition to mini golf, you can find arcade games and even a wedding chapel. If you do not like KISS music, this is not the place to be. If you enjoy KISS, request your favorite song while playing the 18 hole course.

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Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

In true Las Vegas fashion, stop at the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck for a half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower. Located inside Paris Las Vegas, this is one of the best ways to get a fantastic view of the Las Vegas strip. You will travel up a glass elevator to the top for a 360 view of the city. On a clear day, you will be able to see into the dessert, while evening tickets will give you a view of all the city lights. Plan your timing just right and you will be able to see the Bellagio fountain show from 46 stories above. You can even put a lock on the bridge on your way out.

Drive a Super Car

Elevate your Las Vegas experience by driving a supercar on a racetrack. Instead of gambling, sign up for a driving lesson you will remember. Instructors will show you how to drive these machines safely before accompanying you to the race track. After your laps, sign up for a drifting ride-along with Exotics Racing Las Vegas professional drivers. This can easily be a highlight of your Las Vegas vacation.

Dig This

While planning things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, consider using your money to push dirt. Located 20 min south of the Strip, Dig This is a 5-acre heavy equipment playground. First, you must pass their simple training and breathalyzer test (this is heavy equipment, remember!). At this park, you can operate an excavator, bulldozer or skid steer to move around dirt.  This is arguably your best chance to operate heavy equipment in Las Vegas.

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