Your updated guide to the best free attractions still open in Vegas this year—without falling for outdated tips.

Introduction

If this is the first Vegas article you’ve read in a while—maybe you visited years ago and want to see if things are still the same—we’re happy to help.

And if you’ve been coming to Las Vegas often and are wondering whether anything is still truly free—we’re here to help you see what’s left!

My friends, my family, and I have been visiting Vegas for years while traveling the American Southwest. From 2012 until about 2021—especially during the pandemic struggles when the city desperately needed to bring tourists back—Vegas had incredible deals.

We’d go from $100-a-night motels in L.A. or San Francisco (bed bugs included) to huge midweek rooms on the Strip for $30… and with a $20 tip at check-in, you might even get an upgrade to a suite or a Strip-view room.

(That little “trick” still works in 2025, by the way—it’s not even a trick, really. It’s pretty common for people who know how Vegas works, and the front desk staff are very used to it.)

We felt like royalty.

Now, in 2025, things have changed—a lot. But at the same time, there’s hope that the pendulum is swinging back a little in favor of the traveler. Don’t lose faith!

Most people assume Vegas is a money trap. And sure—it can be, if you don’t know where to look. But over the years, we’ve found, tested, and shared with travelers from all over the world that Vegas still has plenty of unique, memorable experiences that cost nothing.

Even in 2025.

These are the 16 free things to do in the heart of Las Vegas (on the Strip and Downtown) or within a short Uber/Lyft ride that we actually recommend to our friends and fellow Getawaykers™ who want to experience the real Vegas without draining their wallets.

A Quick Disclaimer

I still see a lot of blog posts (often AI-written) recommending the Mirage volcano show.

It’s wild to see—especially in 2025—tourists who didn’t do updated research. Many people come here “just passing through” without really preparing for Vegas, and they end up disappointed.

Just last week, I saw a couple (I think Australian) standing outside The Venetian, arguing with another couple about where the Mirage was. The Aussies were upset they couldn’t find it. The other couple pointed toward a massive guitar-shaped structure under construction, and the Australians insisted they were wrong.

It honestly breaks my heart to see visitors miss out on the best parts of this fascinating, chaotic city because of outdated or incorrect info. But it’s also why Anna and I decided to create Getawayk™.

For the record: The explosive fire-and-water show at The Mirage had been a Vegas icon since 1989, but it closed permanently on July 17, 2024. The Mirage is transforming into the Hard Rock Hotel—yes, shaped like a guitar. If anyone tells you it’s still running in 2025… don’t trust their Vegas list.

[IMAGE BELLAGIO FOUNTAINS]

1. Bellagio Fountain Show – The Gold Standard of Free Vegas Entertainment

It may feel cliché, but ask any local or frequent Vegas visitor what the best free show in the city is, and you’ll hear the same answer: The Bellagio Fountains.

These massive, choreographed water displays shoot up to 460 feet in the air, set to everything from opera to pop hits.

Each show is different. Some are dramatic and moving (think: “Time to Say Goodbye” by our fellow Italian Andrea Bocelli), others are playful and fun (“Viva Las Vegas” never fails to get the crowd smiling).

💡 Pro Tip: Skip the packed front walkway and head toward the side entrance near Bellagio’s valet—or cross the street to Paris Las Vegas—for a more centered, less crowded view.

Want to follow it up with a show? Book discounted performances through Vegas.com, often bundled with dinner.

[BANNER DINNER VEGAS.COM]

2. Bellagio Conservatory – An Indoor Garden Wonderland

This 14,000-square-foot botanical garden transforms five times a year. Seasonal themes include Lunar New Year, Spring, Summer, Harvest, and Holiday displays—each crafted entirely from fresh flowers and live plants.

It’s free, open 24/7, and located right behind Bellagio’s front desk.

If you’re not coming in through the lobby, just follow the soft sound of the grand piano being played at the Petrossian Bar—it’s right next to the Conservatory entrance.

If it’s your first time in Vegas (or you’ve forgotten how cold they keep the AC here), pack a light jacket along with your comfy walking shoes. A sore throat from over-air-conditioning can ruin a vacation faster than you think.

📦 Want our full list of packing essentials for Vegas (yes—including bed bug spray)? Download our FREE Vegas Packing Guide from the banner at the bottom of this page.

3. Lake of Dreams at Wynn

Tucked away behind the Wynn’s Lakeview Esplanade, the Lake of Dreams is one of Vegas’s most creative and underrated free shows.

The 3-acre lake becomes a glowing canvas at night, with a mix of high-tech projection mapping, animatronics, holograms, and live music that plays across the water. The visuals change regularly, featuring everything from giant singing frogs to surreal dreamscapes.

💡 Where to watch for free:

·         Grab a spot at the Parasol Up lounge inside Wynn (order a drink if you want to linger, but it’s not required to pass through).

·         Or, stand on the terrace above the lake for a short-but-perfect view of the 10–15 minute show.

Showtimes (2025 update): 

Every 30 minutes from 8:00 PM to 12:30 AM.

It’s quirky, mesmerizing, and feels like a hidden gem compared to the chaos of the Strip.

4. Discover Hidden Art at The Cosmopolitan

Inside The Cosmopolitan, you’ll find one of the city’s best—and most underrated—modern art collections.

From massive digital columns to interactive installations and unexpected pieces hidden in plain sight, this hotel feels more like a gallery.

Even the elevators are part of the art. Walk slowly through the lobby and explore each floor’s hallway—you’ll spot pieces that are clever, quirky, and perfect for Instagram.

🎯 Bonus tip: Keep your eyes open for the secret pizza joint—no sign, no name, just a hallway lined with record covers on the 3rd floor. It’s not free, but the fun of finding it is.

Travel Smart: Consider bringing a compact travel tripod or anti-theft backpack from Amazon to safely capture those perfect lobby shots without worrying about your gear.

5. Fremont Street Experience – Lights, Music & People-Watching Gold

Fremont is old-school Vegas with a modern glow-up. Viva Vision, the massive LED canopy, covers five city blocks and hosts epic sound-and-light shows every night.

Free live concerts happen almost every weekend, with everything from ‘80s tribute bands to local DJs turning the whole street into one giant party.

And here’s the truth: even we locals come here way more often than we visit the Strip.

Fremont has that unique, slightly eccentric charm where anything can happen at any moment—plus tons of quirky bars. We especially love that, in an effort to “steal” tourists from the Strip, they host frequent free concerts and themed events. It still feels like the Vegas of a few years ago, when great deals were easy to find.

⚠ Watch Out: 

Some street performers are insanely talented; others are borderline scams. Don’t feel bad about saying “no” if someone asks for money after taking a photo with you.[Read here how to interact with street performers in Vegas without awkward moments or vacation-ruining arguments.]

Want to go deeper? Book a historic Fremont walking tour on GetYourGuide and learn the real stories behind the neon lights.

6. Dueling Piano at Harra’s

If you’re strolling along the Strip in the evening, make a quick detour into Harrah’s for one of the most fun (and totally free) live music experiences in Vegas—the dueling pianos at the Piano Bar.

Two talented pianists face off, taking song requests from the crowd and playfully trying to “outdo” each other with solos, sing-alongs, and comedic banter.

🎶 When to go: Shows typically start around 9:00 PM and run until late. No ticket or reservation required—just walk in, grab a drink if you want, and enjoy.

It’s lively, it’s interactive, and it’s one of those “Vegas at its best” moments you can stumble into without planning.

7. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat – A Tropical Escape on the Strip

Hidden in plain sight at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel, this lush 4-acre wildlife habitat is home to exotic birds, fish, and yes—real Chilean flamingos. You’ll also spot pelicans, koi, turtles, and parrots among the tropical gardens and waterfalls.

It’s completely free and open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it a perfect morning stroll or midday break from the heat and casino noise.

💡 Smart Tip: Go early if you want quieter photos without the crowds. There are also scheduled pelican feedings twice a day (check the sign at the entrance), which are fun to watch—especially if you’re traveling with kids.

Why we love it:

It feels like stepping into a mini tropical resort without ever leaving the Strip, and it’s one of the few places in Vegas where you can hear running water and birdsong instead of slot machines.

8. Forum Shops & The Fall of Atlantis

Most shopping malls aren’t worth adding to your Vegas itinerary. This one is different.

The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace feature animatronic Roman statues that perform short shows—most famously, The Fall of Atlantis. This free attraction tells the story of a mythical sibling rivalry for the throne of Atlantis, complete with fire effects, water fountains, and dramatic voiceovers.

📅 Showtimes: 

Daily, every hour on the hour from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Fun fact:

The show debuted in 1997 and has been updated with 4K projections and improved effects, but it still has that delightfully retro Vegas vibe.

💡 Value Tip: 

While you’re at Caesars, it’s worth exploring the hotel itself—it’s one of the few still carrying that grand, themed Vegas feel inside and out. If you’re booking your stay, check Caesars Palace on Booking.com for free cancellation rates—you can always switch if another hotel has a better deal.

9. Grand Canal Shoppes – A Visual Feast

The Grand Canal Shoppes inside The Venetian have their own kind of magic.

As Italians, we can confirm:

No, it’s not the same as real Venice—but we can also tell you the attention to detail in the columns, frescoes, and canals is stunning.

Wander under hand-painted sky ceilings, watch indoor gondolas glide along second-floor canals, and stroll the cobblestone walkways lined with shops and restaurants.

💡 Tip: 

Even if you’re not shopping, grab a bench and people-watch (just like we do back in Italy). The mix of luxury boutiques, live opera performances, and wide-eyed tourists is peak Vegas.

If you need to withdraw cash or shop while at The Venetian, skip the casino ATMs (their fees are outrageous). Instead, use a Wise.com debit card—we use it for international travel because it gives real exchange rates and avoids most ATM fees.

10. Hotel Hopping – Travel the World in One Afternoon

Vegas hotels are built like movie sets. In a single afternoon, you can stroll through Paris, Venice, ancient Egypt, and New York—all within a few miles.

Every tourist does this, but even after living here for over 15 years, Anna and I never get tired of jumping from one themed world to another.

That’s why we know that in a few years, with more luxury-but-minimalist hotels like Fontainebleau and Resorts World popping up, we’ll miss the days of walking from an Egyptian pyramid to a medieval castle in minutes.

Best Hotel-Hopping Itinerary:

·         Start at Luxor → Excalibur → New York-New York

·         Cross to Paris Las Vegas → Bellagio → Caesars Palace

·         End at The Venetian

Booking a hotel? Use Booking.com with free cancellation so you can easily switch if your first choice doesn’t match your vibe.

11. Circus Circus – Yes, Free Circus Shows Still Exist

You don’t have to stay at Circus Circus to enjoy its nostalgic charm. Upstairs at the Midway, free daily circus performances include jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, and more.

📅 Showtimes: Posted daily upstairs—usually every hour from late morning to evening.

It’s great for kids, but also a fun throwback for adults who remember when circus acts were part of the Strip’s daily life.

💡 Pro Tip: The Midway area can get sticky—bring hand sanitizer.

Want more family-friendly fun? Browse top-rated kid experiences in Vegas on GetYourGuide —from magic shows to interactive museums.

And a bit off the Strip (but still easy to reach with Uber or Lyft)...

12. Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign – The Must-Do Shot

It’s iconic. It’s touristy. And yes—it’s still 100% worth it.

There’s a small parking lot right in front, but expect a line. Sometimes it moves quickly; other times you’ll wait up to 30 minutes for your turn.

💡 Smart Tip: 

If you visit during the day or evening, you’ll notice people offering to take your photo. They’re usually friendly—but they’re not licensed photographers, so they can’t tell you where to stand or when to take your shot. If you want to snap your picture from the side or without waiting in line, you’re completely free to do so.

For the best photos, go at sunrise (zero crowds) or after dark when the neon sign is glowing against the night sky.

Want to combine it with other photo spots? Book a small group Vegas photo tour on GetYourGuide —transportation included.

13. The Pinball Hall of Fame – Old-School Cool on a Budget

A nostalgic paradise for gamers and collectors, the Pinball Hall of Fame houses over 200 playable pinball machines, some dating back to the 1950s. You’ll find everything from Star Wars and Indiana Jones to rare vintage sports games.

🎟 Entry: 

Free—you just need quarters to play. Many machines still cost only 25–50 cents per game.

📍 Location & Hours: 

4925 Las Vegas Blvd S, open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (until 10 PM Fri–Sat).

💡 Smart Tip: 

Bring a small pouch for coins. Even if you don’t play, it’s worth a visit just to see the handwritten history cards on each machine—they’re full of quirky facts and behind-the-scenes stories.

14. Shelby Museum

If you love cars like me, this is your spot. The Shelby American Museum is free to enter and showcases everything from classic Cobras to the latest GT500s.

📅 Hours: 

Monday–Saturday, 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Guided tours are offered daily at 10:30 AM, and they’re also free.

You’ll learn about Carroll Shelby’s racing legacy, see prototypes and rare models up close, and even browse the gift shop for exclusive Shelby merchandise.

💡 Why we love it: 

It’s just far enough from the Strip to feel like a hidden gem, but close enough for a quick Uber or Lyft ride. And for gearheads, it’s pure heaven.

15. Mermaids at Silverton

One of Vegas’ most unique free shows happens inside a giant aquarium at the Silverton Casino—home to 117,000 gallons of water, thousands of tropical fish, and yes, real mermaids.

Professional swimmers in mermaid tails perform underwater routines, interacting with guests through the glass.

📅 Showtimes: 

Thursday–Sunday, 12:00 PM–8:00 PM (check the schedule on Silverton’s site for seasonal changes).

Why it’s worth it: 

It’s family-friendly, air-conditioned, and a relaxing break from the flashing slots and crowds. Plus, the Silverton has an attached Bass Pro Shop with its own indoor waterfall and wildlife displays—also free.

16. Las Vegas Community Healing Garden – A Place of Reflection

Tucked away in Downtown Vegas, the Community Healing Garden was created in just days after the tragic October 1, 2017, shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival, which claimed 58 lives.

This peaceful space features a “Tree of Life” surrounded by 58 painted hearts, one for each victim, along with pathways, flowers, and hand-painted tiles left by visitors from around the world.

It’s quiet here. People speak in soft voices, leave mementos, and take a moment to remember. Visiting reminds you that Vegas isn’t just about neon and nightlife—it’s also a community that comes together in moments of darkness.

📍 Location: 1015 S Casino Center Blvd, open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Final Thoughts – Why Free Still Matters in Vegas

Keeping track of free things to do in Las Vegas isn’t easy—this city changes constantly.

That’s why in our full, frequently updated digital guides, we make sure to highlight both the incredible paid experiences and the ones that are still free.

Because smart travelers know: traveling smart doesn’t mean traveling cheap. It means optimizing your budget so every dollar is spent where it matters most—without assuming that every memorable experience has to come with a price tag.

💌 Pro Tip: 

Subscribe to our newsletter below—we’re about to release an entire guide on the 15 most amazing free things to do just outside Las Vegas (and trust us, some are even better than what you’ll find on the Strip).

FAQs: Free Things to Do in Las Vegas (2025)

1. Are these activities really free?

Yes. You may pass by shops or food stands, but the experiences themselves require no payment.

2. Can I do all this without a car ?

Most on-Strip activities are walkable or accessible via Monorail. For things like Seven Magic Mountains, rent a car via RentalCars.com.

3. Are these places safe to visit at night?

Mostly yes—especially in tourist zones. We recommend avoiding empty walkways off Fremont after midnight.

4. Do hotels let you walk in just to see the decor?

Yes! Most encourage it. Vegas hotels are open spaces, and walking through lobbies is normal.

5. What’s the best free thing for couples?

Bellagio Fountains, The Venetian’s Grand Canal, and rooftop photo ops at sunset. Top it off with a romantic show via Vegas.com.