Tourist traps in Las Vegas are unlike any other.

Las Vegas is a unique city because despite all of the lucrative and explicit activities that are available; the city still needs to offer events and things to do that are appealing to the whole, entire family.

And thus, the infamous Vegas tourist trap was born due to this necessity. If you’re a Vegas local, or an out-of-towner who frequents the city, then you know about the hilariously over-the-top attractions that pull locals and tourists of all kinds.

These tourist traps are never permanent fixtures — like most Vegas attractions — but they often operate long enough to become engrained memories in the minds of many.

For all of our locals, do you remember Freight Dome? Or maybe you had a birthday party or two at Wet‘n’Wild Las Vegas on The Strip?

Since Vegas relies on volume and a constant flow of people, it’s no secret that our city needs to constantly innovate and keep the world’s attention. So things move, change and reinvent themselves all of the time.

We created a list of some of the most popular tourist attractions in Las Vegas. Now, this doesn’t mean that these attractions are the best or worst in the city. We chose these attractions based on the volume of people who go to these places, the overall audience interaction these attractions receive — such as reviews, social media posts, etc. — and the overall reputation of these attractions.

There’s something quite charming about these tacky, cute and cheesy tourist activities. But, these tourist traps leave everlasting memories that have us thinking back to “that one time in Vegas.” If you’re someone who plans to visit the city, we recommend penciling one of these activities on your itinerary at least ONCE.

From stacked rocks in the desert to being flung 1,149 feet up in the sky, here are some of the biggest, coolest, and even tackiest tourist traps in the entertainment capital of the world: Las Vegas.

  • Seven Magic Moutains

    Nothing screams “tourist trap” louder than driving 40 minutes outside of The Strip, parking on the side of the road and staring at tall rocks in the middle of the desert.

    Seven Magic Mountains overtook the Vegas tourist scene by storm when Instagram photos started erupting from the scenic spot. People posted pictures of themselves posing in front of these brightly painted boulders in the desert. Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation by Ugo Rondinone. Accodring to the artist’s website, “The location is physically and symbolically mid-way between the natural and the artificial: the natural is expressed by the mountain ranges, desert, and Jean Dry Lake backdrop, and the artificial is expressed by the highway and the constant flow of traffic between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.”

    The meaning behind this art installation is beautiful. However, it doesn’t take away that it’s a pretty colorful tourist trap. Everyone should visit Seven Magic Mountains at least once or twice. But just remember that this is an art installation of tall, brightly colored, stacked rocks.  However, this activity is FREE! So, you can’t really complain. Just go, see it for yourself and enjoy the beautiful art!

  • The Adventuredome at Circus Circus Las Vegas

    Now, we’re certainly not Circus Circus haters by any means. In fact, there’s something so delightful about this hotel that we can’t help but love it. The Adventure Dome at Circus Circus is the epitome of a pure tourist trap. And many of us have had amazing memories at this mini amusement park. Along with this local tie, many tourist — who come in family packs — can use the Adventure Dome as a time to distract the kids!

  • Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

    The Conservatory at the Bellagio Las Vegas is a breathtaking installation of lush flora and fauna, wrapping around the hotel’s designated space for this attraction. Each season, the talented Horticulture and Engineering teams transform “the 14,000-square-foot Botanical Gardens into a showcase of inspiring sights, sounds, scents and colors. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter,” the hotel’s website says

  • Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

    Now, this isn’t a tourist attraction that is unique only to Las Vegas. In fact, Madame Tussauds attracts audiences in other major cities across the globe. This attraction is fun. However, upon walking within the “museum,” you slowly start to realize that you’re quite literally looking at wax figures. The pictures are fun and the initial experience is exciting. But after 20 minutes, the attraction becomes humorous. And the bar located within the museum is truly a saving grace.

  • The Rides On The STRAT Las Vegas

    This is for all of the thrill seekers. The Start is about 1,149-feet tall with a few adrenaline-pumping rides that are perfect for those who love adventure and amusement rides. The SkPod and Observation Deck are great attractions to attend. But the rides are an elevated way to experience a view of the Las Vegas Strip. The Big Shot shoots you 60-feet in the air at 45-miles-per-hour in a matter of seconds. Insanity dangles you from the side of a building at more than 900 feet high and the X-Scream teeter-totters you over the edge of the SkyPod.

  • Another Vegas Tourist Mistake: Misunderstanding Vegas' Resort Fees

     

    Las Vegas Resort Fees 2024 Guide

    A detailed and updated list of Las Vegas hotel resort fees in 2024 + a list of Vegas hotels that don't charge resort fees. Updated regularly!

    Many people book hotels in Vegas, confirm their booking’s original price online and go on their trip. Upon checking out, many people are hit with a differently priced bill at the end of their stay. These resort fees are due at the end of a visit and allow you to “access the hotel’s amenities.” Be sure to research your hotel’s resort fee. Above is a list of the resort fees across the different Las Vegas hotels and casinos.

     

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