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8 Best Things to Do in Las Vegas Off the Strip

Las Vegas is more than just “the Strip.” This town offers travelers and tourists cultural experiences, outdoor recreation and historical hot spots that are just minutes away from the Strip. From museums to hiking trails, you won’t regret leaving the Strip for these 8 “off the Strip” experiences.

The Fremont Street Experience Fremont Street
Credit: Fremont Street by bigstockphoto.com

The Fremont Street Experience

Fremont Street has grown in popularity, making it one of the most popular “off the strip” experiences in Vegas. Casinos and restaurants line Fremont Street, however, it’s the street itself that draws travelers here, which has stages with free music and unique street performers. This downtown Las Vegas attraction is also home to a LED-lit canopy that plays light shows above the street. Check out the zipliners flying by, enjoy a drink while walking down Fremont or pop into one of the casinos for some cheap gambling options.

Red Rock Canyon Rocky desert landscape at sunset, Red Rock Canyon National Recreation Area
Credit: Rocky desert landscape at sunset, Red Rock Canyon National Recreation Area by bigstock.com

Red Rock Canyon

Not many travelers to Las Vegas know that there are great outdoor recreation options just outside of the city. Red Rock Canyon is home to hiking trails and campsites, making it a great “off the strip” spot to embrace the surrounding scenery you would regularly only see from your hotel room window. Rock climbers, hikers, and campers regularly flock to this Las Vegas oasis that is found only 30 minutes from the Strip.

Neon Museum Neon Boneyard
Credit: Neon Boneyard by Graeme Maclean via Flickr.com

Neon Museum

Las Vegas is the city of lights, with a number of colorful signs lighting up the Strip. However businesses come and go in the city that never sleeps, therefore vintage signs head to retirement at Neon Boneyard. This unique museum features old school hotel and casino signs, making it a perfect place to visit for history buffs and Instagrammers alike. The Neon Museum and Boneyard offers daily tours.

The Pinball Hall of Fame The Pinball Hall of Fame
Credit: The Pinball Hall of Fame by Jenny Salita via flickr.com

The Pinball Hall of Fame

Who said you need to spend a lot of money to have fun in Vegas? You only need to have a couple of quarters to enjoy a game at The Pinball Hall of Fame. Perfect for pinball junkies and vintage game enthusiasts, the Pinball Hall of Fame is home to over 200 vintage pinball machines. The machines are all playable and only take 25 to 75 cents to play. And since it’s relatively close to the Strip, it’s just a short drive away.

First Friday in the Arts District Las Vegas Arts District
Credit: Las Vegas Arts District by Tracy Hunter via flickr.com

First Friday in the Arts District

Not all of Las Vegas is kitschy and cheesy. You can find culture here, especially when you visit the Arts District. This hip area is full of bars, galleries and vintage boutiques. This area of Vegas is a great escape from the Strip no matter what day of the week, however, the Arts District truly comes alive during First Friday. This event, which occurs on the first Friday of every month, features free live entertainment and local art shows.

Springs Preserve Botanical garden at Springs Preserve
Credit: Botanical garden at Springs Preserve by www.springspreserve.org

Springs Preserve

If the weather isn’t too hot, then consider visiting Springs Preserve, a botanical garden found just six miles from the Strip. This family-friendly attraction has two miles of walking trails, an outdoor concert venue, and an on-site restaurant. Plant lovers should not miss viewing the wide varieties of desert plants featured here, including the largest collection of Mojave Desert cacti.

Town Square Town Square
Credit: Town Square by Town Square

Town Square

If you have grown tired of the shops, restaurants and bars found on the Vegas Strip, then consider visiting Town Square. Found only a mile and half from Mandalay Bay, this outdoor mall is perfect for shopaholics and foodies alike. This area of Las Vegas may mimic some of the things found on the Strip, however more affordable food, drink and shopping options are found here.

The Mob Museum The Mob Museum
Credit: The Mob Museum by themobmuseum.org

The Mob Museum

Las Vegas has a colorful past of organized crime, and The Mob Museum highlights all the juicy details. Found in downtown Las Vegas, The Mob Museum brings history to life as it showcases the mob’s influence on the city and the battle between the mob and Vegas law enforcement. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy this “off the strip” museum. Stocked with historic artifacts, captivating exhibits and theater presentations, you’ll be glad you stepped off the Strip to enjoy this Vegas attraction.

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