Most visitors to Las Vegas like to budget as much cash as possible for gambling. It helps if you can save money on other expenses, such as finding low-cost buffet deals or restaurant specials. When it comes to entertainment, taking advantage of free events is definitely the way to go. Many Las Vegas hotels and resorts feature free daily attractions that entertain children and adults alike.
The Mirage Hotel and Casino is the only resort in the world with a "volcano" on its front lawn. Located directly on the Las Vegas Strip, the man-made volcano erupts hourly from dusk until 11 p.m. Built in 1989 when the Mirage first opened, the volcano attraction underwent a redesign in 2008. It has two volcano systems and fire shooters that operate on demand. Observers can enjoy fireballs that shoot as far as 12 feet above their heads, and surrounding waterfalls and lagoons with smoke and fire effects. The eruption also features an exclusive musical soundtrack arranged by a team of composers including legendary Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart.
The Mirage Hotel and Casino
3400 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89109
800-963-9643
mirage.com
Located at the center of the Strip, the Bellagio Hotel features an enormous 8.5-acre lake, according to Vegas.com. More impressive than a lake in the desert are the lake's dancing fountains featured in free shows throughout each afternoon and evening. The Bellagio's fountains rise and fall in routines choreographed to music that changes regularly. The show is every half hour until 8 p.m., and every quarter hour after that until midnight. High winds can cause cancellation.
Bellagio Hotel and Casino
3600 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89109
888- 488-7111
bellagio.com
At Treasure Island's Sirens of the TI show, visitors can watch an 18-minute battle between dashing pirates and a band of sultry sirens determined to lure them to their destruction. The show is outdoors, directly in front of Treasure Island on the Strip, based loosely on the sirens from Greek mythology. Performers wow crowds with daring high dives into the cove surrounding the ships featured in the show. The action includes sword fights, seductive dance moves and an original musical soundtrack. Geared more toward young adults than children, the show features fire effects throughout the action and fireworks at the finale. There are four showings of Sirens of TI nightly, though the exact times vary by season. All performances are weather permitting as well. The free show attracts a crowd, so plan to arrive early.
Treasure Island
3300 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89109
800-944-7444
treasureisland.com
Inside the Caesars Palace Forum Shops, the Fall of Atlantis Fountain Show features animatronics figures that tell the story of the lost city of Atlantis. The figures in the fountain depict King Atlas and his children as he struggles to decide which of his offspring should rule the kingdom. In addition to the figures of gods, a 20-foot winged creature makes an appearance as flames and raging water engulf Atlantis. The fountain area becomes very crowded at show time, so arrive early. The free show is hourly beginning at 10 a.m. daily.
Caesars Palace
3570 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-731-7110
www.caesarspalace.com
