Whether it’s your first time in Las Vegas or you make a trip out to Nevada every year, many people will agree that 48 hours is a good amount of time to spend in Sin City. Unless you’re planning to get away from the bright lights to go for rugged outdoor adventures nearby, you can see and do a lot here in just two days. In fact, this very walkable destination is perfect for a quick weekend trip to indulge, party, and live it up for a break from routine. Here are nine of the best ways to spend your Vegas trip if you’re only in town for 48 hours.
Casino Hop Down the Strip
One of the best reasons to plan a Vegas weekend getaway is that you really don’t have to plan anything at all to have a great time. The easiest way to experience the city is to simply take a long walk down the Strip and casino hop from one lavish venue to the next. Of course, these are prime places to play a game of poker or try your luck at a slot machine. But there are also lots of other things to do inside Vegas casinos, such as watch free shows throughout the day, grab a cocktail that you can walk around with on the street, or grab a bite to eat one of the many restaurants inside. It’s also fun to pop into the glamorous shops inside the casinos, admire the architecture that distinguishes one casino from the next, and to simply watch all of the fascinating characters go by.
Eat at a Delicious Buffet
Vegas is also an ideal weekend trip for foodies, and to get the most bang for your buck on a 48-hour trip, make sure to check out a buffet. Vegas buffets are offered every day at Vegas casinos and range considerably in price and food offerings. Check out various casino buffet’s websites to learn whether the specials for the day are steak, seafood, sushi, or something else delicious. There are often long lines at popular buffets, so consider arriving during non-peak hours or at least bringing a cocktail to sip while you wait in line.
Watch a Live Performance
Vegas is one of the best places in the world to watch live performances any day of the week, and there are so many different options to choose from. Here you can buy tickets to see your favorite bands and singers, impressive acrobatic performances that defy gravity, puzzling magician shows, and creative performing arts exhibits that are out of this world. Here you can also find family-friendly performances, as well as R-rated ones to suit your interests and make the most of a night out in Vegas.
Experience a Vegas Hotel Pool
No Vegas trip is complete without spending some time by the pool and soaking up some sunshine. Every Vegas pool is a bit different, so you have a lot of options to choose from before taking a dip. Some resort pools are huge party scenes with DJs, bottle service, VIP sections, and beautiful dancers. Meanwhile, other pools are designed for rest and relaxation to help you save some energy for a second night out on the town. Pool party season often runs from March through October, and one popular option is the Rehab Beach Club at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.
Enjoy Fremont Street Attractions
It’s also fun to head over to Fremont Street to check out all of the exciting attractions and entertainment options here. Here you can watch and listen to free live music, take a thrilling ride on a zip line, and even take advantage of a free slot pull at Fremont Street Casinos like Four Queens an Binion’s. Free concerts typically take place between May and October. Other things to see and do in the area include the Neon Museum, the Happy Buddha at the California Hotel & Casino (rub his belly for good luck!), the shark tank at the Golden Nugget, and local craft beer at Banger Brewing.
Shop for Souvenirs
Vegas has more than its fair share of souvenir shops, so it’s fun to browse a few to pick up some items to remember your trip or give someone else as a gift. In fact, the world’s largest gift shop, called the Bonanza Gift Shop, is in town and offers a bit of everything in a space of over 40,000 square feet. Whether you’re looking for something kitschy, classy, or iconic, or unique, you’ll be sure to find it here. It’s also worth stopping by the Gamblers General Store and Souvenir Super Mart if you’re in the mood to shop or browse.
Walk Around Container Park
One unique area of Vegas that deserves mention is Downtown Container Park, a collection of businesses set up in old shipping containers. This part of town offers a more local, authentic, and community-driven scene that you don’t necessarily find elsewhere around town. The bars, breweries, and shops here cater to locals’ wants and needs, but even as a tourist, it’s fun to browse the offerings and grab lunch or a beer here.
Dance the Night Away
Going to a dance club is another quintessential Las Vegas experience that is a bucket list item for many first-time travelers here. The clubs here vary greatly in terms of exclusivity, admission price, dress code, and the clientele you’ll find inside. Some of the most talked-about clubs in town are XS at the Wynn, Hakkasan at the MGM Grand, 10AK at the Mirage, and Tao at the Venetian. Check the clubs’ websites to see which DJs will be on stage, if there are any special themes and if drink specials are offered.
Snap Photos of the Famous Las Vegas Sign
Before your 48 hours in Vegas wrap up and you head to the airport for your journey back home, make sure to snap a few photos by the famous Las Vegas sign. The “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign is located at 5200 South Las Vegas Boulevard and has been a local landmark for decades. It stands 25 feet tall and has a small parking lot where you can safely pull over to take a picture.
