Things to See in Las Vegas, NV

The Mirage's erupting volcano

Tourists stroll the Strip to encounter the major, theme-based hotels. Visit the Bellagio Hotel for a free, family-friendly light, sound and 1,000-fountain show that takes place every 15 minutes during peak times. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the sizzling volcano eruption that occurs at the Mirage Hotel. This landmark was completely redesigned in 2009, remains free for visitors to experience and is centrally located on the Strip. For another bonus, pop inside to encounter a captivating rainforest with abundant plants, a waterfall and lagoons. Continue through the entrance to encounter the wild tiger exhibit. Other free hotel experiences not to be missed include the elegant Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas, Italian gondola rides at the Venetian, pirate battles and pyrotechnics at Treasure Island, exquisite Roman statues at Caesar's Palace, the best of New York landmark imitations at the self-named hotel, Fremont Street Experience light show extravaganzas and legendary lion encounters at the MGM Grand. Be sure to head inside each hotel to see first-hand the casinos that are now world-famous.

Car-lovers will appreciate the collections at the Imperial Palace.

Las Vegas is home to many first-rate museums. Visit the Gallery of Fine Art--located in the Bellagio Hotel--to view works on loan from museums and private art collectors. See fthe largest gold nugget in the world (weighing 61 lbs.) at The Golden Nugget Las Vegas Casino. Automobile aficionados will appreciate the collections at the Imperial Palace. Antique, classic and famous vehicles are available for viewing. Travelers with young children will appreciate the hands-on activity at the Lied Discovery Children's Museum, where they can learn about electricity, nocturnal animals, technology and more. Pop culture junkies should pop into the Magic & Movie Hall of Fame for family-friendly exhibits, demonstrations and game halls. Other popular points of interest that are a worth a visit include The Liberace Museum, Elvis-A-Rama Museum, Las Vegas Art Museum and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum.

The area around Las Vegas offers breathtaking scenery.

Nature lovers also have a place in the Las Vegas, Nevada area. A brief, 30-minute drive from the glamorous, vibrant city is Hoover Dam. This structure of engineering ingenuity offers beautiful views. You can take a guided tour to learn about its unique history. Other outdoor excursions in the Las Vegas area include bungee jumping at A.J. Hackett's, car racing at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and carving down a ski slope at the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard resort. Travelers hoping to cultivate a unique Las Vegas experience can hitch an Old West wagon and see natural riverscapes and plentiful desert wildlife with Pioneer Territory Wagon Tours. Other outdoor options? Discover fragrant Aspen trees and natural, desert canyons on a guided horseback ride or soar in a plane ride over the Las Vegas skyline to encounter the city in an entirely new way.