21 Exciting Experiences Beyond The Las Vegas Strip

Last Updated on June 30, 2022

Vegas is an easy and quick getaway for many. While the strip does have unquestionable appeal for the ‘trouble’ you can get into in a short weekend, fun in Las Vegas is not only on the strip.

If you’re only visiting Las Vegas for the casinos and shows on the famous Strip, you’re missing out on a lot of what the city has to offer. Just a few blocks off the Strip, you’ll find quaint neighborhoods with carefully manicured gardens and quiet parks. Take a stroll down one of the main streets and pop into some of the unique shops and boutiques. Or head to one of the many museums and art galleries. If you’re looking for excitement, there’s no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas.

From downtown Las Vegas to as far as a day trip to the Grand Canyon, there are many new things to try in Vegas that will help to keep Las Vegas a fresh and interesting destination with every visit.

Our suggestions below will give you a better understanding of the area and will be well worth your effort to venture a little further. There are always so many great main attractions to choose from in Vegas, but you’re really missing out if you never venture around Las Vegas off the strip for some of your Vegas activities.

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Here Are 21 Things To Do In Vegas Off The Strip

Fremont Street

Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With its twinkling lights and bustling atmosphere, this famous thoroughfare has become a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to its fascinating history or are looking for a taste of old-school Vegas, there’s something for everyone on Fremont Street. From souvenir shops and exciting casinos to great restaurants and lively street performers, this vibrant destination has something to offer everyone who steps foot on it. So if you’re planning a trip to Vegas, make sure to put Fremont Street at the top of your list–you won’t be disappointed!

At times, the abundance of flashy bright lights and noise can get a little overwhelming, but Fremont Street is a must-see. If you’re brave, you can zipline halfway down the Freemont Street Experience (850m), 77 feet in the air. To find all the best places along Freemont Street, take a walking tour.

Skydiving

Las Vegas is known around the world as one of the ultimate destinations for thrill-seekers. Whether you’re into high-stakes gambling or exotic nightlife, this city has something for everyone. But if there’s one must-do activity in Vegas, it’s skydiving. With jaw-dropping views of the Vegas skyline and surrounding desert landscape, this adrenaline-pumping activity lets you see the city from a whole new perspective. And thanks to the warm desert climate in Vegas, you don’t need to worry about freezing at high altitudes or dealing with icy winds on your way down. So if you’ve got an adventurous spirit, be sure to add skydiving in Vegas to your travel list. Whether you’re a first-time jumper or a seasoned pro, there’s no better place than this iconic city for putting your fears aside and taking the leap. After all, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, right? So why not live it up and make your next big memory sky-high?

Experience free falling from 12,500 feet up in the sky, at 120 + MPH as you enjoy fabulous views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the Colorado River, the Las Vegas Strip, Valley Of Fire, Red Rock Canyon, and Mt Charleston. The views are spectacular.

It was such a thrill when I went skydiving in Vegas and a memory that I still talk about to this day. I felt completely safe and in good hands as I jumped out of a perfectly good airplane for the first time. It will be one of the most incredible experiences of your life!

Skydiving… Without The sky!

If you’re looking for a truly unique and exciting experience, nothing quite compares to indoor skydiving. This amazing sport gives you the chance to experience all the thrills of a traditional skydive without having to worry about jumping out of a plane or dealing with strong winds. At indoor skydiving facilities, you’ll be fitted with a special suit and goggles, then hoisted into the air by massive fans that create column-like updrafts. Guests are able to simulate the feeling of freefall, surrounded by a mesh trampoline floor and padded walls instead of an airplane and parachute. As you float around in this virtual cloud, you’ll get an incredible adrenaline rush as you soar through the air, feeling weightless and free. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for a thrill or simply want to get your feet off the ground someplace new and exciting, booking an indoor skydiving session is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So why not discover what it’s like to fly?

You’ll go through a brief training class, get suited up in the flight gear, and take off in flight in the tunnel. There are some weight restrictions though, to ensure the tunnel is able to generate enough lift for you to fly. For men, the guidelines are between 190lbs and 245lbs, depending on height. For women, the guidelines are 170lbs to 210lbs, depending on height.

If you’re unsure about jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, you can still feel the rush of skydiving while safely indoors. It is a great way to make the dream of flight a reality in a safe and fun environment.

Natural History Museum

Few places in the world offer such a diverse and fascinating array of natural history exhibits as the Natural History Museum in Las Vegas. From ancient dinosaurs to modern mammals, the museum brings the history of life on Earth to life. In addition to its impressive dinosaur fossils, the museum houses an extensive collection of rocks, minerals, and crystals. And for those interested in human history, the museum features a wide variety of artifacts from cultures around the world. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a serious student of natural history, the Natural History Museum is sure to have something to interest you

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum contains a multi-million dollar, world-class collection that creates an interactive learning experience. Learning about everything from the desert to the ocean, from prehistoric times to the present, and from Nevada to Africa, you’ll be taken on a fascinating trip around the world.

It is also a great museum to visit to learn about the desert surrounding Las Vegas. You’re sure to see artifacts that you will not find elsewhere.

If you get a Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, you could include your visit to the Natural History Museum!

Rail Explorers USA

A short 20-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, you can have the unique experience of exploring the Nevada desert, River Mountains, and Eldorado Valley by a 4-mile downhill ride in a pedal-powered railbike. Each ticket also includes a ride in a historic train back up the hill and entry into the Nevada State Railroad Museum.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the city and get up close and personal with some of its most iconic landmarks.

And best of all, Rail Explorers is completely family-friendly, so everyone can enjoy the ride. So if you’re looking for a unique way to see Las Vegas, be sure to check out Rail Explorers!

Dig This Vegas

Dig This Vegas is the world’s first adult sandbox. That’s right – at Dig This, you can operate real excavators and bulldozers in a safe and supervised setting. Learn how to operate heavy machinery, challenge yourself with fun obstacles, and compete with friends in exciting challenges.

Enjoy the heavy equipment playground where you can drive real earth-moving machines. You can choose from a variety of experiences: Caterpillar D5K Track-Type Bulldozer, Caterpillar 3I5CL Hydraulic Excavator, Skid Steer, or Mini Excavator.

You start with an overview of what to expect and the safety procedures that must be followed. An instructor will walk you through every possible thing-a-majig you can press to control the machine. Before you know it, you will operate the machine with ease!

Warning: If you fail the breathalyzer test, your dig is non-refundable. Also ensure you arrive dressed for outdoor conditions, including hard-soled, and closed-toed shoes.

Drive An Exotic Car

If you are looking for an exhilarating experience while visiting Las Vegas, drive the car of your dreams on a Las Vegas racetrack. There’s nothing quite like roaring down the track as you enjoy the outstanding performance that these cars are known for. With a little planning and caution, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience behind the wheel of an exotic car in Las Vegas.

You can pick your favorite supercar to take for a spin, or choose a combo of multiple cars to get a feel for some of the most exclusive supercars. There are several price options, so you’ll be able to find fun within your budget.

After selecting what you would like to drive, you’ll get some coaching, and take some practice runs to ensure a safe and thrilling ride. If you have ever dreamed of racing an exotic car, the Supercar Driving Experience is truly the experience of a lifetime!

Best of all, there are no speed limits. You are able to race as fast as you like in your exotic car, within safety precautions, of course.

Race Car Drive

Ready to feel the need for speed? A ride-along in a real race car is the perfect way to get your heart racing. At Vegas Speedway, you can strap into the passenger seat of a high-powered car and hold on tight as a professional driver whizzes around the track. With speeds reaching up to 140 miles per hour, this is definitely not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking for an adrenalin-pumping experience, a ride-along at Vegas Speedway is sure to deliver. And who knows – you might just catch the racing bug yourself.

With the Richard Petty Driving Experience and NASCAR Racing Experience, you can find yourself in a NASCAR race car at the Las Vegas Speedway.  You can choose to drive a race car by yourself, or go for an exhilarating ride along with a professional driver. For the ultimate experience, the Richard Petty Driving Experience offers timed racing sessions with no lead car to follow and no instructor riding with you; putting you in full control!

We went for a ride-along with professional drivers when we were in Vegas and it was one of the highlights of our trip. It was a truly exhilarating experience and we loved the adrenaline rush as we whipped around the track.

If you get a Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, you could include your ride-along in a race car!

Neon Boneyard

When you first think of Vegas, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Neon, and lots of it.

Located just off the Strip, the museum is home to hundreds of signs that have been retired from their original locations. Many of the signs date back to the early days of Las Vegas, when the city was nothing more than a small desert town. Today, they stand as a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. The Neon Museum offers several different tours, each of which offers a unique perspective on the city’s past. Whether you’re interested in the history of gambling or the evolution of the Las Vegas skyline, the Neon Museum is sure to offer an enlightening experience.

The Neon Boneyard is an interesting visit. Learn the history of the signs and the efforts that help bring them back to their former glory.

The Neon Museum has multiple spaces: the Neon Boneyard outdoor exhibit, a visitor center inside the former La Concha Motel lobby, and the North Gallery, where you’ll find additional signs and is reservable for special events.

Book ahead for a guided walking tour of the Neon Boneyard, during the day, or while the neon is shining in the evening.

Seven Magic Mountains

Nestled in the desert just outside of Las Vegas, Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most unique and Instagram-worthy attractions in Nevada. The brainchild of Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the installation features seven up to 35-foot-tall limestone towers that are each adorned with colorful boulders. While the statues may look like they were created by magic, they are actually made from locally sourced materials. Rondinone worked with a team of rock climbers to hand-place each boulder, resulting in a work of art that is as much about the process as it is about the final product. Visitors are free to explore the site, and many choose to hike to the top of the nearby hills for a bird’s-eye view of the installation. Whether you’re a local looking for a new place to explore or a tourist searching for a taste of Nevada’s unique landscape, Seven Magic Mountains is sure to leave you amazed.

According to the artist, Ugo Rondinone, “Seven Magic Mountains elicits continuities and solidarities between human nature, artificial and natural, then and now”.

Getting to the Seven Magic Mountains is a 20-minute drive south of Las Vegas. The popular exhibit is located off Las Vegas Boulevard in Henderson, Nevada.

Take a tour of Seven Magic Mountains and the Vegas sign.

The Mob Museum

The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, also known as the Mob Museum , is a museum located in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada. The museum is dedicated to the history of organized crime and law enforcement in the United States. The museum features exhibits on famous mobsters such as Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, as well as on law enforcement agents who have fought against them. The museum also has a replica of the electric chair used to execute convicted criminals. The Mob Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Las Vegas, and it is one of the city’s most visited museums.

The Mob Museum is also included in the Go Las Vegas Pass!

Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is a beautiful natural area in Nevada that offers a wide variety of unique landscapes and interesting rock formations. The striking red sandstone cliffs and canyons, lush green valleys, and network of hiking trails make this area a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you are seeking breathtaking views, challenging hikes, or just an opportunity to get back to nature, Red Rock Canyon is the perfect place to visit.

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located less than twenty miles west of the celebrated Las Vegas strip. With 195,819 acres within the Mojave Desert, the Red Rock Canyon is a popular area for worldwide geologic interest and scenic beauty.

The Red Rock Canyon features the popular 12-mile scenic drive. During this route, visitors can explore the canyon from their car or bicycle. There are many scenic stops and trailheads along the drive. There is a minimal entrance fee of $15 per vehicle per day (yearly passes are also available at special rates), which helps to support the visitor facilities and upkeep of this popular drive. Or, take a tour to experience the beauty of Red Rock Canyon.

Red Rock Canyon is also a popular spot for climbing and biking.

The Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. It is located on the Nevada-Arizona border and was built in the 1930s. It is one of the most famous dams in the world and is a popular tourist destination. The dam is named after President Herbert Hoover, who played a key role in its construction. The Hoover Dam was built to provide irrigation water for farms in the area, as well as generate hydroelectric power. It is 726 feet tall and 1244 feet long, and it took more than 21,000 workers to build it. Today, the Hoover Dam is still an important source of water and power for the region. And its scenic location makes it a popular spot for visitors from all over the world.

The Hoover Dam was constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression and on September 30, 1935, was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Hoover Dam is famous because it protects California and Arizona from dangerous flooding, provides water to farm fields, and supplies water and power to cities in LA and those that are rapidly growing within the Southwest.

If you get a Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass, you could include a Hoover Dam Highlights tour.

Fly Above The Strip

A helicopter tour of Las Vegas is a great way to see the city in all its glory. There are many different companies that offer tours, and they vary in price and duration. Most tours take place during the day when the weather is clear and the views are spectacular. However, there are also some companies that offer nighttime tours, which can be even more impressive as you fly over the brightly lit cityscape. No matter which tour you choose, you are sure to get an unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Book your Vegas helicopter tour today.

Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon

At Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon, you’ll embark on an exhilarating adventure high above the ground. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or an experienced thrill-seeker, this zip-line course is sure to get your heart racing. Only thirty minutes from the Las Vegas strip, you can fly through the sky across 1.5 miles of zip line over the course of four separate runs. Flightlinez uses thicker cables and advanced trolleys, to give guests faster speeds and enhanced safety. Yoru experience offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert landscape, but the best part is the exhilarating rush you get as you zoom along at thrilling speeds, flying through the air with ease. Whether you want to test your limits or simply enjoy an afternoon of fun in the sun, Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon is the place for you.

You may even spot some wildlife as you zip down the lines as the canyon is home to red-tail hawks, chuckwallas, and bighorn sheep.

Wild West Ghost Town

If you’re looking to feel some chills up and down your spine, Nelson is one of the easiest to visit from Las Vegas. Just 45 miles outside of the Las Vegas strip, Nelson is one of the most photogenic ghost towns. The town was founded in the 1860s, and at its peak, it had a population of over 10,000. However, the town began to decline in the early 20th century, and by the 1950s, only a handful of people were still living there. Nelson is now a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore its abandoned buildings and learn about its history. Many of the buildings have been well preserved, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into life in a 19th-century mining town. In addition to its historic buildings, Nelson also offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a unique place to visit, Nelson is definitely worth a trip.

The town is strewn with the ruins of buildings, vehicles, and odd movie props, like the plane from the movie 3,000 Miles to Graceland. This Wild West landscape has been featured in many movies, television shows, and magazines. You may also find the occasional movie shoot happening! Nestled with Eldorado Canyon, you’ll also find the most famous gold mine in southern Nevada, Techatticup Mine. Take a mine tour to find out what all the fuss is about.

Rip Through Desert Dunes

While many visit Vegas for the nightlife and parties, it is also a great place for those who love to experience the outdoors. Explore the desert and take a dune buggy on a spin as you rip through the dunes of the Mojave Desert. Even if you do not have any experience off-roading, there are many great options that you will feel comfortable with for a first thrilling experience.

Desert dunes have long held a certain allure and mystique. These arid expanses of sand seem to go on forever, and they are constantly shifting with the wind. Although these landscapes may seem barren and harsh at first glance, they are actually full of life. Various types of cacti and other brushy plants thrive in these sandy conditions, providing important nutrients for local wildlife. Whether you’re exploring one of the vast desert dunes in Nevada or simply admiring them from afar, you’ll find beauty and wonder in this unique natural landscape.

There is a mix of providers that do rentals and guided tours; each will give you a different experience of Nevada.

Pinball Hall Of Fame

Las Vegas is known for the unusual and offbeat. It is no surprise that there is also a Pinball Hall of Fame, with its display of the world’s largest pinball collection. With a variety of old arcade games, some as old as the turn of the 20th century, it is an inexpensive and fun afternoon just 10 minutes from the Las Vegas strip.

Pinball machines have been around for over a hundred years, and they continue to be popular today. There are even competitive leagues and tournaments that players can join. For those who really love pinball, there is the Pinball Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, Nevada. The hall of fame is home to over 200 machines, making it one of the largest collections in the world. The pinball machines range from the 1950s to the 1990s, with older games from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s being most prevalent as that was the “heyday” of pinball. You will also find a few arcade novelty games, as well as newer machines from the 1990s and 2000s. There is also a museum where people can learn about the history of pinball. The Pinball Hall of Fame is a great place for pinball fans to visit, whether they are looking to play some classic games or just learn more about this iconic American pastime.

Impressively the games belong to just one club member, Tim Arnold.  The museum is non-profit, so its excess revenue supports non-denominational charities. Have some fun, and feel good about helping to give back!

Segway Or Electric Scooter Tour

When it comes to exploring a new city, there are many great options for seeing the sights. A fun way to explore a new place is on a Segway or electric scooter tour. These types of tours offer an easy and fun way to see all of the major attractions in a city, giving you an up-close and personal look at your surroundings. Whether you choose to go with one of the classic tour companies or opt for a DIY option, taking a Segway or electric scooter tour is a fun way to experience your destination in style.

Glide through Las Vegas as you pass many of the iconic sights. Choose from a variety of different tour options and once you have had your segway or E-Scooter training, you’re on your way!  From foodie tours to Downtown Las Vegas, to viewing the neon lights, or street art, there is sure to be a tour you’ll love.

See and learn about what made Las Vegas a famous destination that people flock to. Full of little-known facts and tales of the most iconic places in Vegas, you’ll be able to unravel more of the mysteries of Vegas through any tour you choose.

National Atomic Testing Museum

If the ghost towns outside of Vegas did not give you the chills, this museum surely will. The National Atomic Testing Museum is a science and history museum located just off of the Las Vegas strip. The museum is an affiliate museum of the Smithsonian Institution.

If you’re looking for a fascinating glimpse into the history of the American nuclear program,  the museum offers a wide range of exhibits on the development of nuclear weapons, as well as the testing that took place at the Nevada Test Site. You’ll also learn about the people who worked on the program and the challenges they faced.  Explore the history and pop culture surrounding the Cold War that caused panic for bomb shelters, nuclear weapons, and the Nevada test site. You will learn through interactive exhibits, photographs, videos, artifacts, and scientific reports that cover the 70 years of testing in the desert outside of Vegas. The museum is a great way to learn about an important part of American history.

Also, many of the volunteers were employees of the testing site. They have plenty of tales to tell about what working with the bombs and government was like.

Grand Canyon

Located just a few hours outside of the bustling city of Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon is an excellent day trip for anyone looking to get away from it all. With its awe-inspiring natural beauty and stunning views, the Grand Canyon never fails to impress. Whether you’re hiking along the rugged trails, or simply taking in the breathtaking vistas from one of its many scenic viewpoints, there is sure to be something for everyone at this iconic American landmark. And with so many picture-perfect photo opportunities throughout the park, it’s no surprise that so many visitors end up coming back time and time again to experience the magic of this remarkable destination. So if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Vegas for a day and see some truly spectacular sights, then be sure to make a trip out to the Grand Canyon. If you’re willing to have a long day, it is definitely worth the journey.

If you’re only doing a day trip, you may want to drive around the popular South Rim.  There are several areas to pull over at all the impressive viewpoints. To reach the South Rim, it will take you between four and five hours from Las Vegas. Make sure you get an early start to make the most of your day.

If you want a shorter drive, the Grand Canyon West Rim is two and a half hours from Las Vegas.

 

Get Off The Las Vegas Strip

If you’re visiting Las Vegas, you may be tempted to spend all your time on the Strip. And while there’s definitely plenty to see and do there, you shouldn’t miss out on all the other great things the city has to offer. Vegas may be known for its casinos and clubs, but there’s much more to explore if you take the time to look beyond the Strip.

 

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