Things to do in Vegas w/o breaking the bank

[I_Bleed_B&G]

Going to Vegas from 12/21 to 12/27. This will be my first time there with the wife. We plan to check out all the hotels since we heard they are nice to see. We also plan to go check out the hoover dam and catch one of the cirque du soleli shows. For those that have been there, what can you recommend to do that won't break the bank. We don't really gamble so we are trying to figure some things out to do. Any suggestions would be appreciated

[Reic]

Sleeping :)

[TorresA]

As you mentioned take a look at all the hotels, that should keep you busy for a while. Hoover Damn is pretty close, if you can extended it you can stayor night or 2 at the Grand Canyon. Most hotels have a nice pools, depending on which hotel you stay at.

[DButz65]

Treasure Island has a free show(s) every night, from like 7pm until 9pm, every hour or so, right out front just look for the pirate ships, the sirens are hot :)

Check out the Bellagio as well, they have free exhibits inside, your wife should really like that. And of course check out the famous water fountain out front.

The Paris's Eiffel Tower is cool to go up on, great view of the whole city from up there, just dont look straight down LOL I think it costs like $15 per person to go up there.

You could always go stop by the palms and hang out out front, you MIGHT catch a celebrity there :) Its not on the strip though.


If you all like animals, MGM grand had some cool stuff inside.

My brain is getting slow, but almost every casino has something to do or see for free. Bellagio has the best buffet we have had there, i saw Mike Sellers at Ceasars one year and yelled "WALLA WALLA!" he turned and gave me a smile and thunbs up heh

We saw "O" the last time we were there, i usually hate those kinds of shows, but it was simply awesome.

[WVUforREDSKINS]

I want to get out to Vegas this year. I think I am trying to work something out for around April.

You all thrill seekers?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqeyGKPfjF8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIFEBwWyEAU&feature=related

[Burgold]

If you are adventurous. There is also white water rafting down and about the various canyons. Spending a day just strolling the strip and taking in the decadence can be fun too. Just looking at the Casinos and how they designed them can be goofy fun.

Have to know what you mean by not break the bank. Cirque is reasonably expensive as shows go.

[Redskins Diehard]

You could always win.

[SnyderShrugged]

If u want to get off strip there is a ton to do.

Red Rocks Canyon

Valley of Fire

Bryce Canyon (a bit of a drive)

Dont forget the legal hookers in Parumph! lol

[hail2skins]

One cool thing is that Steve Wynn's new hotel, Encore, will be opening during your time there (it opens on the 22nd). It is supposed to be beautiful so that will be worth checking out.

As for shows, Gordie Brown is supposedly pretty good and I think is back at the Golden Nugget in downtown Vegas. He does impersonations and I think tickets are reasonably priced as far as Vegas shows are nowadays. If you want to spend to see a good show, I'd recommend "Jersey Boys" at Palazzo (based on Frankie Valli music, excellent!) or, if you want to see a Cirque du Soleil show, I'd recommend "Ka" at MGM (the stage is amazing). Again, these will cost more, but there might be discounts to be had, given how much Vegas is hurting due to the economy. A show you apparently should stay away from is the new Cirque show at Luxor, "Believe" with Criss Angel. Apparently the reviews have universally been horrible.

I'll try and think of other things today. Just checking out the Strip casinos, esp the ones from Mandalay Bay to Encore is fun. Also, if you have a car, there are also some nice locals casinos worth checking out, like Red Rock Station and Aliante Station. Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, and the Valley of Fire are also solid non-casino attractions. Also, going to the top of the Stratosphere Tower affords a great view, and there are also some cool thrill rides up there.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

Thanks everyone for your input. We are staying at the Luxor and I looked at the Cirque, Chris Angel show and it didn't look to good. We have decided to see Cirque -"O" as we have heard good things about that. We plan on doing some nice "expensive" things maybe 2-3 times max as I can't afford spending more then $100x2 each time for these shows. So I just wanted to get some ideas of things to do that are relatively cheap or free that we would enjoy. Any input on the Luxor hotel itself since we will be staying there?

[Burgold]

Luxor is very nice. It's one of the pricier casino hotels (I think. It's been a few years since I was in LV). My strategy had been to go to a more modest hotel and then spend the day wherever. The hotels are close enough to walk, tram, or drive to and why spend 200 a night when you can spend 50 a night for about the same bed and then enjoy all the ammenities of the 200 buck place anyway.

I do think Luxor is somewhat more removed from the main strip.

[hail2skins]

Luxor is very nice. It's one of the pricier casino hotels (I think. It's been a few years since I was in LV). My strategy had been to go to a more modest hotel and then spend the day wherever. The hotels are close enough to walk, tram, or drive to and why spend 200 a night when you can spend 50 a night for about the same bed and then enjoy all the ammenities of the 200 buck place anyway.

I do think Luxor is somewhat more removed from the main strip.

By today's standards, price-wise Luxor isn't too bad.....especially when compared to some of the places which opened after it, like Bellagio and Venetian. Plus factor in its what's normally a slow time in Vegas plus the good deals being offered due to the economy and he's probably getting a good rate. They've really de-themed Luxor from the Egyptian motif......there are several clubs/bars down on the casino level now.

Location wise, Luxor is on the south end of the Strip.....it is connected to Mandalay Bay, which is one of the nicer places in Vegas. And MGM and NYNY are a short walk and aren't too bad either.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

By today's standards, price-wise Luxor isn't too bad.....especially when compared to some of the places which opened after it, like Bellagio and Venetian. Plus factor in its what's normally a slow time in Vegas plus the good deals being offered due to the economy and he's probably getting a good rate. They've really de-themed Luxor from the Egyptian motif......there are several clubs/bars down on the casino level now.

Location wise, Luxor is on the south end of the Strip.....it is connected to Mandalay Bay, which is one of the nicer places in Vegas. And MGM and NYNY are a short walk and aren't too bad either.

I think I got a pretty good deal. Paid $450\pp inlcluding all taxes and fees for round trip flight including 6 nights at Luxor. I think thats reasonable. Hope the Luxor will be a good stay. Either way I think we will have fun. Keep the ideas coming :applause:

[CandaceM23]

Thanks everyone for your input. We are staying at the Luxor and I looked at the Cirque, Chris Angel show and it didn't look to good. We have decided to see Cirque -"O" as we have heard good things about that.

O is a GREAT show. Absolutely fantastic. You will not be disappointed. Not at all ....

[IONTOP]

Prop you feet on the ac unit and let the air blow on your junk...

[DCSaints_fan]

Well when I gamble which is almost never, I simply set an amount of money I am going to spend and simply consider it gone, and simply write it off as an entertainment expense. I never expect to win money or try to make up losses. Thats what gets you in trouble.

[skinstzar]

My intention is not to rain on your parade but I think it must be said that cash is king in Vegas. You got a really good deal on the airfare and hotel I see. Food can get expensive. If you eat at the hotels it could get away from you. I've been to Vegas many times and have had a wide variety of budgets. I'm assuming you won't be into hookers, strip clubs or gambling. These are the three most expensive things in Vegas. Here are some of my recommendations for going around town without breaking the bank


Dinner- Check out Dan Marino's restaurant in the Hooters Hotel and Casino. Sounds like it would suck but it is actually their upscale restaurant. It's no Bobby Flay's but you will get a good meal, good service and you can usually escape for two people under 75 bucks.

Attractions- If you can tour the hotels without getting sucked into the gaming then that is going to be your most time consuming even which is good. Don't let your guard down though. If your wife is like mine these hotels are bear traps. They have glamorous malls and the shopping bug can bite in a hurry.

Shows- stick to one. Someone else mentioned free shows. These free shows are short and won't consume too much time so try to see a couple in a night. Check out RIO. They have an acrobat show in their slot casino at night on the hour.

Bars- Vegas is home to my favorite bar. The Piano Bar in NY NY. It is downstairs across from the pizzeria, almost at the back of the Casino. Scope it out, find out what time it opens and get there a half an hour early. This can be the cheapest show you see all week. It's dueling pianos and they fly in some amazing talent. It turns into a great scene in that place almost every night.

Driving- If you get a rental car take some time and drive North towards the mountains. The city of Vegas itself is unique in it's design. It is one of the most well planned out cities in the world. Some of the bars out in the town can be fun as well.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

My intention is not to rain on your parade but I think it must be said that cash is king in Vegas. You got a really good deal on the airfare and hotel I see. Food can get expensive. If you eat at the hotels it could get away from you. I've been to Vegas many times and have had a wide variety of budgets. I'm assuming you won't be into hookers, strip clubs or gambling. These are the three most expensive things in Vegas. Here are some of my recommendations for going around town without breaking the bank


Dinner- Check out Dan Marino's restaurant in the Hooters Hotel and Casino. Sounds like it would suck but it is actually their upscale restaurant. It's no Bobby Flay's but you will get a good meal, good service and you can usually escape for two people under 75 bucks.

Attractions- If you can tour the hotels without getting sucked into the gaming then that is going to be your most time consuming even which is good. Don't let your guard down though. If your wife is like mine these hotels are bear traps. They have glamorous malls and the shopping bug can bite in a hurry.

Shows- stick to one. Someone else mentioned free shows. These free shows are short and won't consume too much time so try to see a couple in a night. Check out RIO. They have an acrobat show in their slot casino at night on the hour.

Bars- Vegas is home to my favorite bar. The Piano Bar in NY NY. It is downstairs across from the pizzeria, almost at the back of the Casino. Scope it out, find out what time it opens and get there a half an hour early. This can be the cheapest show you see all week. It's dueling pianos and they fly in some amazing talent. It turns into a great scene in that place almost every night.

Driving- If you get a rental car take some time and drive North towards the mountains. The city of Vegas itself is unique in it's design. It is one of the most well planned out cities in the world. Some of the bars out in the town can be fun as well.

Thanks Skinstzar. We don't mind spending money, we just want to know where we can get the best for our money as long as its reasonable. We will probably rent a car when we get there for like 2 days or so that way we can check out the hoover dam and whatever else we could drive to. I'm sure the wife will want to shop her brains out :doh:. I'd like to take her out one night to a really nice dinner. Can anyone recommend a good one. The wife doesn't like seafood so thats out of the question. I'm really excited and can't wait

[skinstzar]

Thanks Skinstzar. We don't mind spending money, we just want to know where we can get the best for our money as long as its reasonable. We will probably rent a car when we get there for like 2 days or so that way we can check out the hoover dam and whatever else we could drive to. I'm sure the wife will want to shop her brains out :doh:. I'd like to take her out one night to a really nice dinner. Can anyone recommend a good one. The wife doesn't like seafood so thats out of the question. I'm really excited and can't wait

There are soooooo many places. Here are my recomendations based of where I have eaten. Mesa Grill in Cesar's is Bobby Flay's restaurant and everything there is top notch. The Morton's in Vegas is also great. Morton's is more of a chain though. The Palm is good.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

There are soooooo many places. Here are my recomendations based of where I have eaten. Mesa Grill in Cesar's is Bobby Flay's restaurant and everything there is top notch. The Morton's in Vegas is also great. Morton's is more of a chain though. The Palm is good.

Thanks! Mesa Grill looks so good. yuuummm Lamb chops. That might be a good spot.

[Kosher Ham]

Lots of outdoor suggestions. It's really not that warm in Vegas this time of year.

Plan all of your days, dinners, and shows in advance. It will keep you busy and save you money if you are not a big gambler. You can go to the slots and still enjoy the free drinks as long as you are tipping, they will come back to see you at some point. Be aware though, casinos make 90% of their income from the slots.

You may or may not need a car. If you are staying at the Luxor, you can walk a large portion of the strip in about an hour. The Secret Garden at the Mirage sucks now, There is the Silverton aquarium, Lions at MGM, and Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo, I believe all 3 of those are free. The Bellagio has a botanical garden.

Last time I was there I got the helicopter tour at night which was great. I had never been in a helicopter and flying through at night was awesome to see. I think you can book it on the internet for around 70 bucks per person.

Just some of my own experiences. If you are going to gamble plan when. Where doesn't really matter because everything is pretty close. Be aware the old strip is a little further down the road so if you plan on going to Binions or one of those places a cab ride will still work.

[I_Bleed_B&G]

Lots of outdoor suggestions. It's really not that warm in Vegas this time of year.

Plan all of your days, dinners, and shows in advance. It will keep you busy and save you money if you are not a big gambler. You can go to the slots and still enjoy the free drinks as long as you are tipping, they will come back to see you at some point. Be aware though, casinos make 90% of their income from the slots.

You may or may not need a car. If you are staying at the Luxor, you can walk a large portion of the strip in about an hour. The Secret Garden at the Mirage sucks now, There is the Silverton aquarium, Lions at MGM, and Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo, I believe all 3 of those are free. The Bellagio has a botanical garden.

Last time I was there I got the helicopter tour at night which was great. I had never been in a helicopter and flying through at night was awesome to see. I think you can book it on the internet for around 70 bucks per person.

Just some of my own experiences. If you are going to gamble plan when. Where doesn't really matter because everything is pretty close. Be aware the old strip is a little further down the road so if you plan on going to Binions or one of those places a cab ride will still work.

Are the cabs in vegas metered or is it by zone?

[Kosher Ham]

Are the cabs in vegas metered or is it by zone?

Metered, last time I was there.

It was only about 10 bucks for the 4 of us to go from Bally's to Binions.

[hail2skins]

What would be nice for dinner is if you can sit outside on one of the patios. Looks like the highs in Vegas for at least the first part of your trip will be upper 50s, so if that's not too cold for you.......the one night you're seeing "O", I'd recommend Olives at the Bellagio. Another good place where you can sit outside and has a nice atmosphere is SW Steakhouse at Wynn. Other places which have indoor seating and are good: Rao's (Italian) at Caesars and Craftsteak at MGM.

[Predicto]

Liberace Museum. You will never laugh so hard in your life.

[CandaceM23]

Vegas is home to my favorite restaurants.

Andre's in Monte Carlo is amazing.
Prime in Bellagio has the best steak that I've ever had.

[PokerPacker]

how much does a Penn & Teller show cost?

[G.A.C.O.L.B.]

Motel 8 and hookers. Win.

[TorresA]

Are the cabs in vegas metered or is it by zone?


Also few of the casinos are connected by either walkways, trams, or there is a monorail that is on one side of the strip.

[roger waters]

Use the Deuce, it is a double decker bus that runs up and down the strip. I think it is 5 bucks a person for 24 hours. It stops at nearly every casino and you will see the pickup stops all around the strip. We were so sick of walking, the Deuce was a life saver.

[Sebowski]

Always check here before booking anything
http://casinotripreports.com/vegas/

there area couple other bogs with great deals too. Saved a ton last time I sent and stayed in an MGM Grand suite instead of the Imperial Palace ols

search vegas deals blog.

[eagleskins]

Mandalay Bay is the best hotel I've ever stayed at. Lots to do, and the clubs are crazy.

[SnyderShrugged]

As a former resident of Sin City, I found the very best way to get deals is to simply ask. And I mean ask EVERYBODY. From the maintinance workers all the way up to the top dog managerial staffs at each and every Casino/Hotel. Start with your Cab driver from the airport and then move onto the front desk.

The golden rule, you get nothing that isnt asked for.

Whenever we wanted freebies, I would go to the Green Valley Ranch Casino (accross the street from my house) and start telling jokes to the guys who work on the machines. 100% of the time we yirlded at least 4 free meals.

trust me on this.... ASK!

[HogNose]

My wife and I stayed at the Luxor back in '04. Besides gambling we went up the Stratosphere, enjoyed the Fremont Street Experience (http://www.vegas.com/attractions/off_the_strip/fremontstreet.html), Hoover Dam, and just basically take it all in. Just walking through the Venetian is a good time, along with the Bellagio Fountains at night, etc. Many of the casino's have free shows....I think it was Tropicana or MGM that had a good free show. We also were handed free show tickets at the New York New York without having to take the crappy timeshare tour.

We also headed to the Grand Canyon for two days which broke up our trip and of course was a great getaway.

Here is a good "free" ideas list:

http://vegas4locals.com/free.html

[Shilsu]

I'll be in Vegas for Christmas vacation also!

My first time there as a legal adult, and hoping to have a good time. Me and my girl are staying at the Wynn... Found an offer online for one night free plus $100 in dining credit. Also, I keep reading about some $20 trick on FatWallet where if you hand the guy at the hotel desk $20 and he'll give you a wink-wink upgrade to a better room...

[redwoody86]

some cheaper things...

go to the coca cola store and do a tasting from around the world. check out the m&m store right next to it.

for a cheap meal, you have to go to in-n-out at least once.

1/2 price show tix.... there are stands around town where you but tickets the day of the show for a reduced price. it has a lot of the best shows, but you have to be flexible.

[Skinsfan1311]

Ellis Island $7.99 steak dinner...includes salad, rolls, vegetables and a pint of craft brewed beer or root beer. Believe it or not, it's actually a damn good meal.

[dchogs]

i'd love to be able to recommend the prince impersonnator at the boardwalk, but they tore the damn thing down. those cats put on a great show.