Las Vegas is a city well-known for its nightlife, gambling, neon lights, and over-the-top entertainment. What many visitors don’t realize is that there are plenty of Las Vegas attractions off the Strip too. Whether you’re on a budget, looking for family-friendly attractions, or just want to experience something new, taking the path less traveled can be a great way to get more out of your trip to Sin City.
What Are the Best Attractions in Las Vegas?
Here are some of our favorite undiscovered gems that Las Vegas has to offer.
Downtown Container Park
If you’ve been wondering what are some attractions in Vegas that are worth seeing with family, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for a family-friendly offbeat shopping and dining experience, Downtown Container Park is the place. This unique multi-use complex features 40 shipping containers that have been converted into independent boutique shops and dining establishments. Downtown Container Park is one of the best Las Vegas attractions off the Strip that really has something for everyone, from fine dining for the adults to an interactive playground for the kids. The main stage even shows free concerts and movies, so be sure to check the calendar when you plan your visit.
Las Vegas Springs Preserve
Located just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, the Springs Preserve is the perfect spot for a quick getaway when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Springs Preserve features a wide variety of attractions, including desert scenery, 100 acres of native plants and trees, a winding path for a leisurely stroll, botanical gardens, and so much more. This is one of the best Las Vegas attractions off the strip for kids to explore, and it’s the perfect spot for adults to relax and recover after a long night of partying.
Visit the Pawn Stars Pawn Shop
Whether you’re a fan of the hit History Channel TV series, interested in shopping, or just looking for unique Las Vegas attractions, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop is worth a visit. This large pawn shop is stocked floor to ceiling with art, antique arms and armor, coins and currency, jewelry, and much, much more. If you’ve ever seen the TV show, you know that you’re bound to see some one-of-a-kind items that you may even decide to take home with you. If you’re lucky, you may even get to meet the Harrisons, Chumlee, and the rest of the Pawn Stars gang.
Akhob Art Installation
Tucked away in a discrete space on the fourth floor of the Louis Vuitton City Center boutique is an interactive, immersive art installation by world-renowned artist James Turrell. The piece consists of massive chambers filled with rotating light, creating an otherworldly effect. Turrell is famous for these installations, calling them “light fields.” The effect is magical, treating your eyes to a slowly changing wash of brilliant colors that change almost imperceptibly over a cycle of 24 minutes.
If you want to take in some art culture while you’re in town, this permanent installation is one of the best Las Vegas attractions off the strip. The best part is that admittance is completely free – just make sure you call ahead and make an appointment. When you arrive at the store, let an employee know that you’re there for the Akhob installation, and you’ll be guided to a hidden location.
Zombie Apocalypse Store
If you’re a fan of zombie movies and shows, the Zombie Apocalypse Store is a must-see attraction. Located in an unassuming storefront in Las Vegas’ Chinatown, this is the place to go if you want to stock up on survival and self-defense items. However, the store’s interactivity is what really make this one of the more exciting Las Vegas attractions off the strip.
While you’re at the store, why not blast some zombies with paintball guns? Led through a Hollywood-quality set by actual special ops agents, you’re going to need to muster some serious guts if you want to escape from the realistic zombies in one piece. After you’re done shooting the undead, why not learn how to throw knives in the new knife throwing area? If you think you have what it takes, make sure you check the schedule and book your appointment in advance.
Wayne Newton’s Las Vegas Estate
A man synonymous with Vegas decadence and luxury, Wayne Newton has earned the nickname “Mr. Las Vegas.” What was once a highly exclusive estate, Casa de Shenandoah is now open to the public, giving guests the unique opportunity to take a glimpse into the lifestyle of one of Vegas’ most beloved performers. Newton purchased the land that eventually became his sprawling estate in 1966, and today it boasts eight homes, horse stables, ponds, lakes, arenas, and even exotic wildlife like peacocks, monkeys, and penguins.
Newton’s homes aren’t your typical houses by any means. As you tour the grounds, you’ll be treated to a variety of classic memorabilia, vintage cars, and even a custom passenger airplane built into a wall. Getting to see beyond the estate’s iconic gold gates was a pipe dream for most people, until now. Whether you’re a Wayne Newton fan or you just want to get a taste of true Las Vegas excess, this is one of the Las Vegas attractions off the strip that will really give you a behind-the-scenes look at Vegas showbiz and one of the city’s most famous and treasured performers.
The World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel
If you’re an adrenaline junky who loves great scenic views, this Las Vegas attraction is perfect for you. The High Roller is the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, towering at 550 feet tall and 520 feet in diameter. Far from your typical Ferris wheel, the High Roller has 28 pods that can accommodate more than a thousand total passengers (up to 40 people in each cabin).
Each circular, glass-enclosed cabin sits on its own axis for a smooth, upright ride at all times, and one full revolution takes 30 minutes to complete. The cabins have benches on each side, and plenty of standing room so you can gaze out the windows. With flashing neon lights and breathtaking views of the city, a spin on this observation wheel is sure to be a larger-than-life experience to remember.
Pinball Hall of Fame
This unassuming building is heaven for pinball enthusiasts. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, this warehouse boasts over 200 classic pinball games, and most are available for 25 cent plays, although some of the newer games cost 50 cents. The Pinball Hall of Fame is one of the most easily accessible Las Vegas attractions off the Strip, located just 12 blocks away straight down Tropicana. Take a $10 cab, or enjoy a scenic stroll there and back.
Dig This
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to operate tractors and other heavy machinery? Now, thanks to Dig This, one of the more unique Las Vegas attractions out there, you can get the full adult sandbox experience. After completing a 30-minute training and orientation session, guests can command a variety of large machinery, including bulldozers, excavators, and much more. With five acres of land to work with, you’re sure to have a blast digging trenches, building dirt piles, moving large objects, and even performing skill tests that involve moving small objects like basketballs. So, put on your hard hat and get to work!
The Neon Boneyard
Las Vegas has certainly earned its status as the United States’ “City of Lights.” Many of Vegas’ most iconic signs were made by Young Electric Sign Company, or YESCO. Over the years, many of the most iconic signs have been replaced, and now the old ones rest in the company’s Las Vegas storage Yard. If you’re fascinated by the golden age of the Entertainment Capital of the World, this is one of the Las Vegas attractions off the Strip that you absolutely must visit.
There are over 200 signs on the two-acre campus. Some of the most famous massive signs you’ll see on the guided tour include Aladdin’s Lamp from the early Aladdin Casino, as well as signs for the Golden Nugget, Silver Slipper, Caesar’s Palace, Stardust, and Binion’s Horseshoe. This iconic location is the perfect spot for a truly one-of-a-kind photo, and it really makes you appreciate the size of Vegas’ majestic lights.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the go-to destination for rock climbers and hikers in the Las Vegas area, but it’s also just a great place to unwind and enjoy some nature. The red sandstone rock formations reach 3,000 feet in the air on average – high enough that they’re actually visible from the Strip – and the highest point sits at a staggering 8,000 feet. There are plenty of hiking trails to enjoy, many that are littered with Native American artifacts, as well as a wide variety of plants and animals.
The Shark Tank Pool at the Golden Nugget Hotel
The Golden Nugget is a luxury hotel located on the Fremont Street Experience. The hotel has plenty to offer to tourists seeking unique Las Vegas attractions off the Strip, and The Tank is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates aquatic life. The breathtaking $30-million complex includes a 200,000-gallon shark tank that lets guests swim safely with sharks and a variety of exotic fish. If that wasn’t enough, there’s a three-story “Shark Chute” water slide that takes you through the tank into the main deck pool.
If you’d like a behind the scenes tour of the shark tank with the hotel’s resident marine biologist, visit the hotel on a Wednesday. The hotel also offers multiple restaurants with stunning views of the tank. If you’re traveling with a group, you may want to rent out one or more of the 15 luxury cabanas that include flat-screen televisions, private mini-fridges, VIP service, and more.
Sky Combat Ace
Have you ever wanted to fly a fighter plane? It’s a common bucket list dream, and now you can make it a reality. This is one of those extreme Las Vegas attractions off the Strip that’s not for the faint of heart, so make sure you’re prepared for a high-octane aviation experience. While you will have control of the plane, there will also be a licensed fighter pilot flying with you who has the ability to take over the controls at any moment. If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a fix, Sky Combat Ace will not disappoint.
Lake Mead
Las Vegas is a desert city, and that means it gets hot. If you want to beat the heat and have some fun at the same time, Lake Mead is the destination for you. Enjoy aquatic activities like water skiing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Or reel in dinner with some of the best sportfishing in the country. There are plenty of places to swim or scuba dive if you want to explore the lake’s deep waters. With its picturesque mountain scenery perfect for camping, biking, horseback riding, hunting, and more, Lake is Mead a haven for visitors who love the great outdoors.
Hoover Dam
You’ll need (want?) a van to get to Hoover Dam, as it’s roughly an hour drive from the Strip, but that won’t be a problem with one of our affordable rental vans. Towering more than 700 feet high and spanning 1,200 feet long, Hoover Dam is truly a sight to behold. Take in this manmade marvel from the sky in an airplane or helicopter tour. You can also relax on the observation deck, or learn about the dam’s fascinating history with audio and film exhibits.
The Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience is one of those Las Vegas attractions off the strip that you must visit at least once. In fact, to many guests and residents, Fremont Street is quintessential Vegas. While there’s plenty to do and see, the main attraction is a four-block canopy that hangs overhead. The canopy has regular neon light shows, providing an unforgettable visually dazzling experience for those fortunate enough to be underneath. While you’re there, make sure you try the SlotZilla zip line attraction.
Rent a Van at State Van Rental
If you’re vacationing in Las Vegas, renting a van is an absolute must. With so much to see and do, having your own personal van allows you to see everything with ease and comfort.
Whether you need a 12-passenger van in Las Vegas or a 15-passenger van rental at LAX, State Van has the right option for you and your group.
Our luxury van rentals are affordable and we offer the best customer support in the industry. Reserve your van online now, or feel free to give us a call at 424-404-5391 if you have any questions. As you can see, there’s a whole lot to do and see in the City of Lights, and some of the best memories are made visiting Las Vegas attractions off the strip. Secure your van rental today.
