Las Vegas event weekends: what to do between sessions

The Strip, big shows and pools, with the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon within reach.

Events we cover in Las Vegas

Arriving

Harry Reid International (LAS) is 10 minutes from the Strip. Rideshare is about $25 to $35; taxis use zone fares.

Where to stay

Three hotels we would book

• Budget: The LINQ Hotel
• Mid-range: Park MGM
• Splurge: Wynn Las Vegas

Event weekends sell out early and prices rise as the date gets closer: book a cancellable room as soon as you know you are going.

Tours

Where to eat

• Lotus of Siam Northern Thai, off-Strip
• Bacchanal Buffet Caesars Palace buffet
• Raku Japanese robata in Chinatown
• In-N-Out Burger Next to the LINQ
• Eataly At Park MGM
• Esther's Kitchen Italian in the Arts District

With kids

• Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
• Adventuredome at Circus Circus.
• Springs Preserve.

Rainy-day backups

• Neon Museum.
• Mob Museum.
• AREA15 and Meow Wolf.

Free things to do

• Bellagio fountains and conservatory.
• Fremont Street light show.
• Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign.

Getting around

• The Monorail runs along the east side of the Strip; the Deuce bus runs 24 hours.
• Walking the Strip takes longer than it looks: resorts are huge.