How to Spend 1 Day in Las Vegas

With most of the action happening along just one street—Las Vegas Boulevard (aka the Strip)—the exciting highlights of Las Vegas can easily be tackled in one day with a little planning. Here are our top ideas for a 1-day itinerary that includes sightseeing, an interesting museum or wildlife attraction, and a night out amid the city’s bright lights.

Morning: See the Sights

Before the heat sets in for the day, head out on a hop-on hop-off tour by open-top bus to cruise down the Las Vegas Strip for views of Paris Las Vegas with its mock Eiffel Tower and New York-New York Hotel & Casino with its mini Manhattan skyline. You can hop off at any stop to check out attractions that interest you—perhaps visit Madame Tussauds Las Vegas or the Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck. Book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line.

Afternoon: Visit a Uniquely Vegas Attraction

When you’re ready for a break, visit an attraction as scandalous or wild as Las Vegas itself. History and crime buffs will want to head to the Mob Museum to see exhibits and artifacts detailing the exploits of mobsters such as Bugsy Siegel and Al Capone. Alternatively, channel your inner lumberjack and learn how to throw an axe or jump in the drivers seat and start digging big holes with an excavator!

Night: Catch a Show

Start the night 550 feet (167 meters) in the sky with drinks on the High Roller, an observation wheel at the LINQ Hotel and Casino. Back on the ground, make sure to stroll by the Bellagio Fountains, which are best enjoyed after dark, before heading to a Las Vegas show. With only one night in Vegas, a Cirque du Soleil performance should be at the top of your list—music lovers will want to check out O or Mystere. Or head downtown and see America's Got Talent performer Vinny Grosso or catch some free entertainment on Fremont Street.