While some visitors may be content to spend an entire trip to Las Vegas on the casino floor, Sin City is full of sights and sounds that dazzle the senses. In fact, it is not uncommon for travelers to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas and do not want to miss any major landmarks, keep a basic list of must-see sights in mind to ensure that you have the quintessential Vegas experience.
One of the most iconic images in Sin City is the large Las Vegas sign that welcomes visitors. Situated at the north end of the Strip just south of Mandalay Bay, the Las Vegas sign provides a memorable photo opportunity for first-time visitors and Vegas faithful alike. The sign was originally created in 1959, according to Vegas.com, but has been moved several times to accommodate the city's expansion. For many years, access to the sign was extremely limited, with tourists having to dart across multi-lane streets and dodge traffic to snap a picture. However, a 12-car parking lot has been built at the Las Vegas sign, so visitors can safely pose in front of the landmark.
Las Vegas Sign
Las Vegas Blvd., just south of Mandalay Bay
Las Vegas, NV 89119
The Bellagio Fountains are a must-see for most visitors to Las Vegas -- even if they have seen them on previous trips. The hotel features a fountain show every half hour beginning at 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon on Saturday and Sunday and running until midnight every night. The fountains, which are situated in the enormous lake in front of the Bellagio and shoot water as high as 250 feet in the air, are choreographed to various musical selections, which range from classical pieces to Broadway show tunes, according to Destination360, a travel information website. Lights are also used to heighten the drama of the fountain show. The show is free and usually attracts large crowds, so be sure to arrive early to get a prime spot.
Fountains at the Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-693-7111
bellagio.com
At the Mirage Hotel and Casino, visitors can watch a volcano erupt right in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip. According to Vegas.com, the volcano at the Mirage has been a must-see attraction for tourists since the hotel's opening in 1989, but its renovation in 2008 increased the spectacle so crowds often become gridlocked in front of the hotel during the show. Featuring two volcano systems, fire shooters, a lagoon, waterfalls and massive fireballs that fly more than 12 feet in the air, the Mirage volcano erupts on an hourly basis from dusk to 11 p.m. The show is accompanied by an intense, original musical score and the volcano's eruptions and fireballs are choreographed to the music for added drama. The volcano's eruption may be viewed from in front of the Mirage's main entrance or on the Strip directly in front of the property. Arrive early to ensure a good view of the festivities.
The Mirage
3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-791-7111
mirage.com
