Top 5 Totally Free Things to Do In Las Vegas

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Las Vegas is known for its shimmering lights, spirited attractions, and round-the-clock party scene that just won’t quit.  And until the last few years, it was also known as a fairly cheap destination to visit, with discount hotel rates and cheap buffets for the frugal-at-heart.  But that’s all changed over the last decade.  Unfortunately, the days of $2.99 buffets and $39 stays at the finest hotels are long gone.  Las Vegas resorts have gotten bigger and more sophisticated, and the prices have shot up right along with the magnificent skyline.  But, don’t despair.  Even if you have to pay a little more for a night’s stay, there are still plenty of free things to do and see.  Here are five totally free things to do in Las Vegas:

Bellagio Fountains and Conservatory

The Bellagio is known for a lot of things, including its world-famous buffet, beautifully decorated casino, and professional Poker Room which attracts some of the world’s best players.  However, the hotel’s most notable free attractions include an eight acre lake full of fountains that come to life to dance to music every hour on the hour.  But that’s not all.  Once the Fountains of Bellagio show is over, come on inside where you’ll find one of the most beautiful indoor conservatories in the world.   Discover millions of flowers carefully crafted into some of the most elaborate floral displays you’ve ever seen.  And the best part is, it’s totally free.

Freemont Street

If you’re looking for a place to people watch, look no further than Freemont Street in downtown Las Vegas.  Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of free things to do.  First, check out some of the older hotels and casinos in Vegas, including the Golden Gate Casino – which was the first casino to open its doors in Las Vegas in 1906.  Next, check out the overhead Viva Vision light show that takes place at the Freemont Street Experience each evening, every hour on the hour.  Trust me, it will blow your mind, and it’s totally free.

The Aquarium at Silverton

If you love the aquariums at the zoo, you’re in for a real treat at the Silverton Hotel just south of the city center.  There you’ll find an 117,000 gallon reef aquarium with over 4,000 tropical fish of all shapes, colors and sizes, and even scuba diving Mermaids for the kids!  So, pack up the kids and head to the Aquarium at Silverton for an afternoon of frugal fun and relaxation.  It’s totally free.

The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo

First open for business in 1946, the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino is one of the oldest casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.  But there’s more to the iconic casino and hotel than meets the eye, and it’s also got a hidden secret.  That’s because, nestled back beyond the hustle and bustle of the casino, you’ll find a wildlife habitat that is out of this world with all types of exotic birds and ducks, and of course, flamingos. And guess what, it’s totally free.

Ethel’s Chocolate Factory Tour

Need a break from all of the lights and sounds?  Head just south of Las Vegas for a free self-guided tour of Ethel’s Chocolate Factory.  There you’ll see firsthand how all types of chocolates, caramels, and other goodies are made, and even sample a few yourself.  After that, check out the on-site Botanical gardens featuring desert flora and fauna from all over the world.  And don’t worry about bringing your checkbook.  As long as you don’t go overboard in the chocolate and candy gift shop, both attractions are totally free.

What are your favorite free things to do in Las Vegas?