The Top Attractions in Las Vegas for Locals or Tourists

Las Vegas is much more than casinos and neon signs—it’s a city layered with culture, entertainment, and outdoor beauty. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve lived here for years, the top attractions in Las Vegas offer something unforgettable for everyone. From world-renowned shows to scenic escapes just minutes from the Strip, here’s what truly makes Las Vegas a destination worth exploring.

Let’s start with the obvious—the Las Vegas Strip. This iconic stretch is home to some of the most recognized hotels and entertainment venues in the world. Whether you’re seeing the Bellagio fountains light up the night sky or catching a Cirque du Soleil performance at The Mirage or MGM Grand, the Strip is where high-energy fun and global-scale production converge.

Locals may not visit the Strip every weekend, but they still appreciate the world-class restaurants, headliner concerts, and rotating art exhibits found inside these hotels. Plus, new venues like The Sphere have redefined live entertainment in Las Vegas, offering immersive performances in a futuristic setting that’s unlike anything else on the planet.

For those who want to escape the city lights, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a local favorite. Located just 20 minutes from Downtown Las Vegas, Red Rock offers scenic drives, hiking trails, rock climbing, and incredible desert landscapes. It’s a go-to spot for both early morning sunrise hikes and sunset photography.

Red Rock is a reminder that attractions in Las Vegas don’t stop at the Strip. For many residents, the proximity to natural beauty is part of what makes living in the valley so appealing. Weekend adventures can include everything from a quick trail loop to an all-day climb, all without leaving the metro area.

Head to Downtown Las Vegas for a completely different vibe. The Fremont Street Experience blends vintage Vegas charm with modern entertainment. Its massive LED canopy lights up with music and animated shows, while street performers, zip-liners, and live bands keep the energy alive at ground level.

Fremont is also home to classic casinos like the Golden Nugget and historic hotels like the El Cortez, but it’s not just about nostalgia. The area has seen a renaissance in recent years, with bars, eateries, and galleries popping up all around the Fremont East District. It’s one of the top attractions in Las Vegas for locals who want nightlife.

A truly unique stop, the Neon Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past through its collection of retired neon signs from old hotels, casinos, and landmarks. Located just north of Downtown, this open-air museum is both nostalgic and artistic.

Guided tours—especially the nighttime version when signs are illuminated—bring the history of Las Vegas to life. For locals and architecture buffs, it’s a must-see that celebrates the city's ever-evolving identity.

Often overlooked by tourists, the Las Vegas Arts District is a thriving neighborhood full of creativity, cuisine, and local flair. Centered around Main Street and Charleston Boulevard, the district is home to art galleries, vintage shops, breweries, and some of the best locally owned restaurants in the valley.

The monthly First Friday festival draws thousands of residents to enjoy live music, food trucks, pop-up galleries, and community connection. It’s one of the few places in Las Vegas where you can mingle with artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs in a setting that feels more SoHo than Strip.

One of the newest and most talked-about attractions in Las Vegas, The Sphere is a high-tech entertainment venue located just off the Strip. It's a fully immersive experience that includes a 360-degree wraparound LED screen, next-level acoustics, and haptic seating designed to engage all the senses.

Whether you're attending a residency show, digital art performance, or future-forward concert, The Sphere is redefining what live entertainment means. It’s a perfect example of how Las Vegas continues to innovate and stay at the forefront of global entertainment.

Located in the heart of Downtown, the Mob Museum offers a captivating look into the history of organized crime and law enforcement in America, with a special focus on Las Vegas. Through immersive exhibits and interactive displays, visitors can learn about real-life gangsters, historic FBI stings, and the city’s notorious past.

For both locals and tourists, it’s an educational and entertaining way to understand how the city grew from a desert outpost into an international entertainment hub. For a fun twist on history, add a visit to the underground speakeasy or distillery.

Less than an hour from the city, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area offer impressive views and engineering marvels. Whether you're taking a guided tour of the dam or kayaking along the lake’s peaceful inlets, this day trip offers a refreshing change of pace from city life.

For locals, it’s a great way to explore the natural and man-made beauty surrounding the Las Vegas Valley. For tourists, it’s a bucket-list item that pairs history with unforgettable scenery.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering a move to the valley, discovering the best attractions in Las Vegas can deepen your appreciation for what makes this city so unique. From unforgettable shows to serene desert escapes, Las Vegas offers something for every lifestyle. When you're ready to find a home near the action—or away from it—The Clemens Team is here to help. Contact them today for expert guidance on living your best life in Las Vegas.