Las Vegas is widely recognized for its vibrant entertainment scene, upscale dining, and luxurious resorts. However, beyond the ticketed shows and high-stakes gaming, the city offers a variety of complimentary attractions and activities. These free options allow visitors to experience the unique atmosphere of the Strip and surrounding areas without incurring additional costs. From spectacular fountain displays and aquariums to circus acts and art installations, many of the city's most memorable experiences are available to the public at no charge.
The availability of these free activities provides a valuable way for travelers to supplement their itineraries. While resort fees and ticket prices for major productions can add up, engaging with the city's free entertainment allows for a fuller experience of Las Vegas's diverse offerings. This guide details the specific locations, schedules, and descriptions of these no-cost attractions based on current information.
Iconic Strip Attractions and Shows
Many of the most famous free attractions in Las Vegas are located directly on the Strip, often serving as centerpieces for the resorts that host them.
The Fountains at the Bellagio The Bellagio fountains are perhaps the most iconic free show in Las Vegas. This display features a choreographed performance of dancing fountains set to a range of music, from classical to contemporary pieces. The shows are scheduled at regular intervals throughout the day and evening. According to the schedule, performances occur every 30 minutes from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday. From 8:00 pm to midnight, the frequency increases to every 15 minutes. On Sundays, the show begins at 11:00 am, running every 30 minutes until 7:00 pm, after which it transitions to every 15 minutes until midnight. On Saturdays and holidays, shows start at noon, running every 30 minutes, and switch to every 15 minutes from 8:00 pm to midnight. Crowds typically gather just before a show is due to start.
The Fall of Atlantis Show Located at Caesars Palace within the Forum Shops, next to The Cheesecake Factory, the Fall of Atlantis Show is a long-standing free attraction. This performance utilizes lasers, water, and light effects, combined with animatronic figures. The show's platform functions as a salt-water aquarium. In addition to the main show, divers feed the fish daily at 1:15 pm and 5:15 pm. Staff members are present during these feedings to answer questions about the show and the facility. A tour of the facility is also offered daily at 3:15 pm. At the west end of the mall, visitors can see the Festival Fountain show, which features an animatronic discussion between the gods Bacchus, Venus, Apollo, and Pluto, accompanied by a laser light show.
Circus Acts at Circus Circus Circus Circus hosts what is described as the largest permanent circus, offering free performances daily on the Carnival Midway stage. The acts include acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers, roller skaters, and clowns. These performances are particularly popular with families and children. Shows typically begin at 11:30 am, though it is recommended to check the specific schedule on the Circus Circus website for exact timing and any changes.
Big Elvis at Harrah’s A fixture on the Strip, Pete "Big Elvis" performs daily for free in Harrah’s Piano Bar. He performs the greatest hits of Elvis Presley and has been a regular performer for years. The show is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The performer is known to take requests from the audience.
Nature and Aquariums
For visitors seeking a break from the neon lights, several resorts offer complimentary access to nature exhibits and aquariums.
Flamingo Gardens The Flamingo Hotel features a lush tropical garden and wildlife habitat that is free to the public. The habitat is home to Chilean flamingos, exotic birds, koi, goldfish, and turtles. The gardens provide a natural oasis within the city. They are open daily starting at 8:00 am. Specific feeding times for the flamingos are scheduled for 8:30 am and 2:00 pm daily.
Silverton Casino Aquarium The Silverton Casino, located four miles south of the Strip, houses what is described as the best free aquarium in Las Vegas. While specific details on the aquarium's contents are not provided in the source material, the attraction is noted as a significant free activity. The proximity to the Las Vegas South Premium Outlets makes it a convenient stop for those combining entertainment with shopping. The source also mentions the availability of Mermaid School for children and adults, though it does not specify if this is a free service or if it is directly associated with the aquarium.
Mermaid Experience at the Silverton Casino The Silverton Casino is also noted for its mermaid show, which is a popular free attraction. While the provided text does not detail the show's schedule, it is listed among the top free things to do in Las Vegas.
Shopping Malls and Art Installations
Several shopping centers on and near the Strip offer free entertainment, ranging from fashion shows to art exhibits.
Fashion Show Mall The Fashion Show Mall hosts free fashion shows on a large runway located in the center of the mall. These shows are broadcast on big screens and may occasionally be presented as "virtual" events depending on current requirements. In addition to the fashion shows, the mall features free art installations that serve as popular backdrops for photographs.
The Cosmopolitan The Cosmopolitan Hotel offers free art installations for visitors to view. In the parking garage, murals created by artists such as Kenny Scharf and Shepary Fairey, known as Wallworks, are on display. Additionally, the hotel lobby features eight illuminated columns that display video art. One noted installation is described as having a "creepy" aesthetic, depicting what appears to be a person trapped inside a column.
Area15 Located just minutes from the Strip, Area15 offers free admission to walk around and view various artistic displays. While other experiences and rides within Area15 cost money, the general admission to explore the artistic environment is complimentary.
Unique and Off-Strip Freebies
Beyond the major resorts and malls, there are several unique free activities located both on and off the Strip.
People Watching and Landmarks People watching is cited as a free activity of "next level" entertainment in Las Vegas, particularly on Fremont Street and the Strip. Specific locations mentioned for viewing the crowd include seating areas at Whiskey Licker Up at Binion’s, the 4 Queens Patio Bar, or the Plaza’s Carousel Bar. While observing the crowd, visitors can also see remnants of The Mint's original petrified wood exterior wall and signage at Binion’s. On the second floor of The D casino, visitors can find and rub a stone from the Blarney Castle in Ireland for good luck, following a modified version of the traditional kissing ritual.
Free Comedy at South Point The South Point Hotel hosts a free R-rated comedy show titled "The Dirty at 12:30." This show takes place in the South Point showroom every Friday night at 12:30 am.
Equestrian Events at South Point In addition to comedy, the South Point Hotel frequently hosts equestrian events in its arena. These events are often free and open to the public, providing a unique entertainment option away from the typical casino environment.
Cambridge Community Center For a more local experience, the Cambridge Community Center offers a free movie with popcorn every Saturday at 1:00 pm. The movie selection changes weekly. A specific rule for this event is that children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Important Considerations Regarding Free Offers
It is important for visitors to be aware that the landscape of free attractions in Las Vegas is subject to change. Several previously popular free activities are no longer available. For example, the Lucky Cat at the Cosmopolitan Hotel, which used to dispense free fortunes, has been retired. The VOM FASS Las Vegas Free Whiskey Experience is no longer offered, and the shop is listed as permanently closed. The Banger Brewery Tour, which was previously free, now charges a fee of $6.50 per person. The Polaroid Fotobar and Museum at the Linq Hotel has closed permanently. Additionally, the La Fontaine des Mers replica at the Paris Hotel was removed during renovations. Visitors should verify the current status of any specific attraction before planning their visit.
While some rewards programs allow visitors to earn points for discounts and free activities, the specific details of these programs are not detailed in the provided source material. However, it is noted that these programs are available at various locations on the Strip and can be redeemed for snacks and desserts.
Conclusion
Las Vegas offers a wide array of free activities and attractions that allow visitors to experience the city's energy and spectacle without significant additional expense. From the world-renowned fountain shows at the Bellagio and the animatronic displays at Caesars Palace to the natural habitats at the Flamingo and the unique art at the Cosmopolitan, there is something for every type of traveler. While some popular free attractions have been retired or converted to paid experiences, new opportunities continue to emerge. By utilizing the information provided and verifying current schedules, visitors can effectively supplement their Las Vegas itinerary with memorable, complimentary entertainment.