Las Vegas, Nevada which is also known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, attracts visitors worldwide with its diverse offerings. It was originally famed for gambling and nightlife but now offers a plethora of activities and attractions. With so much to do, planning a Las Vegas itinerary can be difficult, especially for first-timers. To help you, we’ve created a perfect 7-day plan to make the most of your visit.
History of Las Vegas
Las Vegas was originally named in 1821, settled in 1905, and saw a lot of urbanization in the 1930s with the construction of the Hoover Dam. The famous “Strip” began with the opening of El Rancho Vegas resort in 1941. During the 1950s and 1960s, gangsters financed many hotels, but Howard Hughes’s purchase of the Desert Inn in 1966 marked a shift to corporate ownership. The Mirage, the first mega-resort, was built in 1989, followed by a wave of themed casino hotels in the 1990s, which shaped Las Vegas into the bustling city of entertainment it is today.
When to Plan Your Visit to Las Vegas?
Las Vegas offers year-round excitement, but spring and fall stand out as the best times to visit, especially if you’re not into gambling. From March to May and September to November, you’ll find moderate weather and great travel deals. This is when you can enjoy outdoor activities and pool parties without the intense summer heat.
However, winters bring colder temperatures and higher prices due to holiday demand. Avoid visiting in summer if you can’t handle temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
5 Day Itinerary for Las Vegas: Things to Do + Day Trips
Spending 7 days in Vegas is a great thought to make a visit to this epic city, and to have a day trip to nearby attractions.
Day 1:
When arriving in Las Vegas, your first stop should undoubtedly be the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign, which is located off Sunset Rd & Las Vegas Blvd, marking the start of the famous Strip. After checking into your hotel, head to the Venetian to dine at Buddy V’s restaurant and bakery, which is owned by the renowned Celebrity Chef from Cake Boss. where you can enjoy a delicious meal before getting ready for the night ahead.
Before hitting the nightclubs, spend some time gambling at one of the hotels on the Strip, where you can enjoy complimentary drinks while playing. Research which nightclub you’d like to visit, considering popular spots like Hakkasan, Omnia, Kaos, XS, or Marquee. Remember to have a few drinks beforehand to save some money, as drinks inside can be pricey. Enjoy the music and vibrant atmosphere, making the most of your Vegas nightlife experience!
Day 2:
Day 2 of your Las Vegas adventure starts at the spa. The spas here are unlike any others in the U.S., they offer an array of amenities like pools, hot tubs, saunas, and even a snow room at places like Caesars Palace Spa. While these packages can be pricey, they’re well worth it for the ultimate relaxation experience. If spas aren’t your thing, then consider visiting the Magic Mountains art installation or the Neon Museum nearby.
In the afternoon, it’s time for pool parties at some of Vegas’s top day clubs like Wet Republic, Encore Beach Club, or Drai’s, that are perfect for day drinking and soaking up the sun.
As evening falls, you can enjoy comfort food from In-N-Out Burger (try the off-menu animal-style fries!) before heading to Hyde at the Bellagio for a stunning view of the Bellagio fountains. Additionally, you can enjoy cocktails and appetizers as you watch the beautiful fountain show, and don’t miss a walk through Bellagio’s conservatory & botanical garden.
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Day 3:
On Day 3 of your Las Vegas adventure, explore the free attractions along the Strip. Start your day at the Flamingo Hotel, where you can wander through the Flamingo Habitat and enjoy sightings of exotic birds & marine life. As you head towards the iconic Las Vegas Sign, you can watch the beautiful street art along the way, such as the Dancing Woman Statue and various murals scattered throughout the city.
At the Mirage Hotel, you can experience the impressive Mirage aquarium and lobby designed as a tropical rainforest. Don’t forget to catch the nightly Volcano show at either 8, 9, or 10 pm, for an unforgettable display of erupting flames against the Vegas skyline. Finally, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Otoro in the Mirage which is renowned for its high-quality sushi offerings at reasonable prices.
Day 4:
Red Rock Canyon is just 30 minutes outside the city. You can explore the vast Mojave Desert located on the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive, or opt for off-roading if you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The entry fee is $15, including access to the open-air museum. Later, as the sun sets, you can enjoy the charm of Old Vegas at the Neon Museum, where timed entry tickets are recommended, especially for sunset visits.
Remember, cameras aren’t allowed, but cell phone photos capture the magic. Afterward, locate to Fremont Street, which was once the heart of Vegas, and is now a family-friendly hub with casinos, attractions, and dining options like the eccentric Heart Attack Grill and the Mexican El Dorado Cantina for a tasty meal.
Day 5:
After a restful morning, you can start your last day in Las Vegas with brunch and bottomless mimosas at Hexx Kitchen. Make a reservation in advance to avoid long waits, especially on Sundays. After brunch, you can start your journey on a sightseeing adventure, fueled by those delicious mimosas. First, visit the Paris Hotel for a photo with the Eiffel Tower replica. For a better background, walk across the street to the Bellagio Valet.
Next, walk to The Flamingo Hotel to see the free flamingo habitat and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Continue along Las Vegas Blvd to the Linq Hotel and High Roller Ferris wheel. Grab a cupcake from Sprinkles and consider a ride on the High Roller for a unique view of the Strip.
Then, continue to the Venetian for a gondola ride or simply admire the waterway. Treat yourself to a lovely milkshake and take a leisurely stroll around the area. Finally, end your Las Vegas trip with a visit to downtown Fremont Street for a great experience filled with art, vintage hotels, lively bars, and unique street performers.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, this 5-day Las Vegas itinerary offers a perfect blend of iconic attractions, thrilling experiences, & culinary delights. From exploring the lively Strip to walking downtown’s beautiful streets, each day promises excitement and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary ensures you make the most of your time in this beautiful city. So grab your itinerary, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable Las Vegas adventure!
FAQs About Las Vegas Itinerary
Q Is this itinerary suitable for families with children?
A. Yes, the itinerary offers a mix of family-friendly activities and adult-oriented attractions.
Q. Can I customize the Las Vegas itinerary based on my preferences?
A. Yes! Feel free to decide your schedule based on your interests, whether it’s focusing more on entertainment, dining, or sightseeing.
Q. Are reservations necessary for the recommended restaurants and attractions?
A. It’s advisable to make reservations, especially for popular restaurants and shows, to avoid long waits or disappointment.
Q. Is transportation included in the itinerary?
A. Transportation options like taxis, rideshares, or rental cars are suggested for getting around, but the itinerary itself does not include transportation arrangements.
Q. Can one extend or shorten the itinerary based on their travel plans?
A. Yes! Feel free to adjust the itinerary’s duration to fit your schedule, you can add or subtract days as needed to make it work for you.
