Want unique experiences in Las Vegas?
Here are some hidden gems in Las Vegas you need to check out!
I’ve done several trips to Las Vegas, and I quickly became bored with all of the typical tourist spots that blogs and websites mention. For the longest time, I never really went anywhere outside of the Strip.
When we travel to popular destinations, it’s easy to miss the unique and special things they offer. Typically this is because when a specific place becomes well known, that’s all you really hear people talk about and showcase and it becomes the first thing we see when we research, and so we plan entire trips around these things. Over the last 10+ years I’ve made a practice of searching for unique places, the ones that haven’t blown up on TikTok and IG, and through this I experience more of what a destination has to offer, and have had some pretty incredible trips.
Whether you’re looking for a great cup of coffee, or want to do something outdoorsy, I’ve got some great options for you to consider that you likely won’t see influencers talking about…
1st up for the best things to do in Las Vegas…
Explore East Fremont Street
Now I’m sure you’ve heard of the Fremont Street Experience (it’s lit up ceiling is worth seeing if you never have) - this is on the same street, but further away from the touristy casinos and shops. You’ll find more locals unique spots here! This is a fun area with some great food, drink and shopping options, and I loved walking around here and taking photos. Some notable things to see are the Big Rig Jig sculpture, the 11th Street Records store, Peyote restaurant and the Golden Goose statue - all truly unique experiences in Las Vegas!
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures near Las Vegas…
Check out Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
This was one of my favorite places to explore, and it’s located right on the edge of the city! You can simply drive this loop and admire the view, or you can pull off and do some hiking! The terrain changes radically on this 13 mile scenic drive, and it is quite magical! I highly recommend going in the afternoon to hike, or at least driving it during golden hour so you can see the colors of the sky and landscape change color.
3rd - For best things to do in Las Vegas…
Here’s where to get the best coffee in Las Vegas:
If you’re like me, finding a quality cup of coffee wherever you travel to is ESSENTIAL. I recommend two places - Mothership Coffee on East Fremont, or Gäbi Coffee & Bakery. Both serve delicious coffee options, however, Mothership has more of a modern and cool vibe, whereas Gäbi is kind of quirky (and also has DIVINE macaroons!)
Top restaurants in Las Vegas:
I was happily surprised to realize how large of a community there is in Las Vegas from all around Asia! There were so many restaurants and shops along Spring Mountain Road! My friends took me to my first sushi train restaurant called Sapporo Revolving Sushi, and it was such a delicious and fun experience! If you’re wanting to get away from the crazy busy and expensive restaurants on the Strip, and truly have a unique dining experience, you need to explore this part of town!
“Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign shot on Cinestill 800t pushed to 1600
And finally - the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign!
This is one of the few more “touristy” things I am willing to recommend, but it’s an iconic sign that most people think of when they think of Las Vegas, and it’s a piece of history! This 25 foot tall sign has been around since 1959, and is an icon worth seeing and taking photos at! They have an easy pull off parking area so you can easily walk up to it, despite this sign being along a busy road. It’s epic at night, but it’s also worth visiting during the day.