2024 Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No Problem! Start Here!

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2024 Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No Problem! Start Here!

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Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No problem! We’ve got you covered!

Planning a trip to Las Vegas might seem like navigating a maze of glitzy lights and endless choices, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. That’s where having a well-crafted 5-day Las Vegas itinerary can truly be your saving grace. 

With our seasoned expertise as Las Vegas veteran visitors for over 20 years, we understand both the excitement and the potential overwhelm that comes with exploring this vibrant city. Fear not, fellow traveler, for we’ve got your back.  

Let us guide you through a meticulously designed itinerary that ensures you experience the best of Las Vegas without missing a beat. From iconic attractions to hidden gems, together we’ll uncover the city’s treasures and make your 5-day Vegas itinerary an unforgettable adventure. 

Let’s Go!

StroTip

Explore Vegas like a pro! Find top hotels, thrilling tours, unforgettable experiences, and convenient rental cars for an epic trip. Let’s make your visit extraordinary!

Click To Explore Each Option!

Hotels
Experiences and Tours
Shows
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Table of Contents
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Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days: Introduction

Las vegas vacation ahead.

While planning your Las Vegas 5-Day Itinerary, it’s important to remember that the initial excitement can lead to overexertion, especially on the first and second days.

It is tempting to embrace all the city has to offer, but pacing yourself is crucial to fully enjoy your entire trip.

Drawing from our experiences of exploring Las Vegas year after year since the late 90s, we are here to make sure that you strike the right balance between indulgence and relaxation.

Let’s craft an itinerary that allows you to make the most of your time without wearing yourself out, so you can treasure each moment of your Las Vegas adventure.

 

 

Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days: Condensed

Elvis at las vegas sign.

Because there is so much information in this article, we want to give you a condensed 5-day Las Vegas Itinerary before we go into detail. We’ve also prepared a downloadable PDF so that it is easy to follow, print, or use digitally.

This 5-day Las Vegas Itinerary is jam-packed and you might find the schedule demanding. In designing the itinerary, we tried to keep the best points of interest close to each other so to save you time and money on transportation.

Feel free to switch the days or experiences around as needed.

Day #1

Daytime
Hop On/Hop Off Bus
Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
Mob Museum
Downtown Las Vegas Arts District
Lunch

Evening
Dinner and a Show
Or
Show and Dinner

StroTip

The Hop On/ Hop Off bus has convenient boarding locations for ticket holders on the Strip, Fremont Street, and Downtown.

Save time by pre-booking your ticket and avoid long lines at the ticket booth.

 Click for Pricing and Availability:

Hop On/ Hop Off Bus

 Mob Museum

Day #2

Daytime
Seven Magic Mountains
Hoover Dam

Evening
Fremont Street Experience
Happy Hour and Dinner
Container Park
Atomic Liquors

StroTip

Experience the 7 Magic Mountains and Hoover Dam small group tour with a dash of expertise and lots of comfort.

Your guide will take you through the highlights while you sit back and enjoy the ride.

Click for pricing and availability:

7 Magic Mountains and Hoover Dam Tour

Day #3

Daytime
Explore Las Vegas Blvd The Strip
Lunch at Eataly-Park MGM
Luxury & Designer Boutiques
Happy Hour Hidden Speakeasy
Bellagio Fountains
The Linq Promenade- High Roller
Paris-Eiffel Tower
Dinner

Evening
Las Vegas Helicopter Tour
The Neon Museum Evening Tour

StroTip

Experience the Neon Sign Bone Yard come to life after dark.  This tour sells out quickly, so don’t miss your chance.

Click for pricing and availability:

Helicopter Tour and Neon Museum

 Day #4

Option #1:  Full Day Tour Grand Canyon National Park
Option #2:  Full Day Tour Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks
Option #3:  Half-day Tour Emerald Caves Kayak Tour
Option #4:  Pool Party-Day Club
Option #5:  Night Clubs

StroTip

Leave the driving to the professionals.  See the sights, skip the lines, and arrive in style.  These are a few of the highest-rated tours for exploring the daylife and the nightlife.

Click NOW for Pricing and Availability:

Grand Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park

Kayak Emerald Caves

Las Vegas Pools and Day Clubs

Las Vegas Nightlife

Day #5

Daytime
Area 15 Entertainment Complex

Evening
Celebration Fancy Dinner

Day #6

Time to go!

Travel Safe and Adventure Often!

Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days:  Detailed

Paris hotel las vegas.

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #1:  Daytime

 

Big Bus Hop On/Off

The best way to see and get an overview of the city is the Big Bus Hop On/Off.  

The sightseeing Loop takes about 2 ½ hours to complete.  The tour will take you through the Downtown Arts District, Wedding Chapel Row, Fremont Street, and of course the world-famous Las Vegas Strip.  

The bus has multiple stops along the route, allowing you a convenient boarding point close to your hotel both on the Strip and Downtown.

Since our itinerary includes Fremont Street and The Las Vegas Strip, it is not necessary to hop off at these locations, until later.

 

Stop #1: 

The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign: 1 hour

Welcome to las vegas sign

Once onboard, we suggest you stay on the bus until you reach the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Since the sign is not within reasonable walking distance, the Hop On/Off is a good alternative to a pricey Uber ride.

Scammer Alert!!!:  There will be “nice” people around the sign offering to take your picture.  They will expect a “tip” of at least $5 and sometimes more.  Take your selfie stick or ask someone in line behind you.  Remember to offer your service back to them.  

Once you’ve taken all of your pictures, board the bus and continue your tour.  

 

Stop #2: 

Mob Museum:  2 hours

We suggest staying on the bus until either the Mob Museum Stop or ReBar in The Arts District.  

The Mob Museum is one of the most fascinating tours in Las Vegas. Explore the lives and legends of notable characters like Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, John Gotti, and more.

At the end of the tour, visit the Underground Speakeasy.  Try the “Bathtub Fizz” or a “Bees Knees”.  And remember to ask a guide for the password!

 

Stop #3: 

ReBar in The Downtown Arts District: 2 Hours

Greetings from las vegas wall mural.

By now, you are probably hungry and The Downtown Arts District is a perfect place for a quiet lunch. With vintage shops, wall murals, restaurants, and breweries, you can easily spend a few hours exploring Downtown Las Vegas Arts District.

📍 Casa Don Juan
📍 Esther’s Kitchen
📍 Good Pie

When you are ready, board the bus back toward your hotel near the Strip or Fremont Street drop-off points.   

This is a good time to rest and freshen up before you head out for the night.  

 

 Las Vegas Itinerary Day #1:  Evening

 

Nighttime view of the las vegas strip

Dinner and a Show or A Show and Dinner

Catch an early dinner and a late show, or an early show and a late dinner. The choice is yours. Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. From concerts to sports teams, it is all here!

These are our suggestions:

Absinthe
Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino
Dining:
Bacchanal Buffet
Stanton Social Prime
Gordon Ramsey Pub & Grill

David Copperfield
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
Dining:
Hakkasan

Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil
New York New York Hotel & Casino
Dining:
Gallaghers
Nine Fine Irishmen

OPM
Cosmopolitan Hotel & Casino
Dining
Superfrico
Beauty and Essex
STK

 

Las Vegas Itinerary Day 2:  Daytime

 

Collage 7 magic mountains hoover dam.

Visit 7 Magic Mountains and Hoover Dam (5 hours)

7 Magic Mountains is a highly popular art installation on the outskirts of town. The colorful boulders stacked 30 feet high, make for some amazing photos. Although you don’t need a lot of time here, it is definitely worth seeing.

The Hoover Dam is a must-see when visiting Las Vegas. Just 45 minutes from the city, stands the massive structure. Visitors can walk across the dam, explore the visitor center, or take a tour down deep inside the power plant.

 

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #2:  Evening

Party at the Fremont Street Experience

Fremont street experience is a las vegas party!

The party on Fremont Street is like no other. From live concerts, DJs, and street performers, the action never stops. Every night from 6 pm-2 am, the overhead canopy lights up in a magical display of music and imagery.

Although there is little outdoor seating on Fremont Street, there are a few good spots for people-watching and relaxing with a cocktail.

For people watching:
Whisker Licker Up
Four Queens outdoor patio

For dining:
$$$$ Oscars at the Plaza Hotel: Beef, booze, and broads, a Las Vegas icon.
$$ Whiskey Licker Up BBQ, burgers, and pub food.
$$ Evel Pie: We love the pizza and Evel Knievel memorabilia on the walls. It’s a total dive, but fun.

For cocktails:
Oscars for Happy Hour
Sand Dollar Lounge Live music 7 nights a week
Downtown Cocktail
Hogs and Heifers (cash only-prepare to be insulted by bikini-clad bartenders)
The Laundry Room (a speakeasy and you must have reservations)

Shark Tank at Golden Nugget

Stop into the Shark Tank pool at the Golden Nugget. You can see them circling, and if you time your visit right, you can even slide through the tank into the pool.

 

Slotzilla Zipline and Zoom Line

Slotzilla zipline on fremont street.

Want to fly 114 feet high above the party? Check out Slotzilla. This Zoomline experience is heart-pounding. As you fly above the crowd, the music plays and lightshow above will transport you to a whole different dimension.

Container Park

Container park art installation fire breathing praying mantis.

 

Container Park is located on the far end of Fremont Street, just a few blocks past the pedestrian-only outdoor and event space.   Upon arrival, you will be greeted by an enormous fire-breathing praying mantis.

Inside Downtown Container Park there are shops, restaurants, and several cocktail bars. Throughout the week, there is often live music or events. The entire facility is made from repurposed sea containers. It is a work of art and imagination.

Oak and Ivy is our favorite stop in Container Park.

 

Atomic Liquors & Bar

The last stop is Atomic Liquors, a Las Vegas tradition. As the oldest free-standing bar in Las Vegas, Atomic Liquors has been serving libations since 1952. Back in the day, the upper echelon would attend “rooftop parties” and watch the bombs detonate in the desert.

Not much has changed in the decor, and the floor is still sticky. However, the food is good as well as the drinks. 

It is worth a stop!

 

 

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #3:  Daytime

The Fabulous Las Vegas Strip

Las vegas spelled in huge letters

Your Las Vegas adventure continues here! Excitement fills the air as you step onto the dazzling Las Vegas Strip. Your heart will race with the thrill of what’s to come. It’s like entering a world of endless fun and bright lights, and you’re ready to dive right in.

If you are like us, you are ready to get your Vegas day started early.  This will be a busy day as you explore the Fabulous Las Vegas Strip!

Sightseers like us don’t want to miss being part of the action.  We want to see everything!  Implementing a methodical approach to exploring the Strip is important.  This itinerary will help you stay organized and keep you from running in circles.

The Strip continually evolves throughout the day. It is lively and a fun place to people-watch. Unless you have reservations or show tickets, today is a leisurely day to stroll along and through the beautifully decorated casino lobbies.

There are some notable sights along the way we will point out to you. The Strip is over 4 miles long and nearly impossible to cover in one day, much less an afternoon without a plan. So, go at your own pace.

Remember, Las Vegas is a 24-hour town, so there is no need to rush your morning.  There is a lot to see and do, so don’t be worried if you miss something.  We’ve left some open time on Day #4 and #5 for you to revisit those places of interest.

StroTip

Las Vegas Blvd is over 4 miles long and although not impossible to walk, it might not be recommended.

Parking is expensive, at rates of $20+ per day at each casino/hotel. That means every time you move your car, you will pay this rate. The Wynn and Treasure Island still offer complimentary parking, but other than that parking is at a premium. There is no side street parking anywhere near the Strip.

For around $8, you can purchase a 24-hour transit pass and ride the Deuce bus to explore the Strip as well as Fremont Street. The buses run every 15 minutes making your ride hassle-free.

While you may not want to see the inside of every casino, we have outlined the “show stoppers”. The casinos are grouped in proximity to each other and have the most impressive architecture and allure.

Dress comfortably during the day. Las Vegas is a tourist town and the hospitality industry appreciates you. So unless you have an aversion to sneakers, it is okay to wear them.

Wynn Hotel and Casino

Beautifully decorated bar parasol wynn casino.

The Wynn is sophisticated and elegant. Walk through the botanical gardens and breathe in the beauty.

If you are hungry The Wynn has wonderful dining options such as:

📍 Wynn Buffet Brunch
📍 Terrace Point Cafe’
📍 Bar Parasol: Quiet and intimate, perfect for an early afternoon Bloody Mary or mimosa.

Things to do:
📍Lake of Dreams: Free Show: Every evening after dark, comes alive with a vivid imagery show.

 

The Venetian and Palazzo Casinos

Gondola ride on the canals of the venetian hotel.

Spend some time exploring Venice, Italy (Las Vegas style). As you wander through St. Marks Square, you can find plenty of shops, cafes, and gorgeous works of art.

Things to do:
📍Gondola ride through the canals
📍Madam Tussauds Wax Museum
📍LOVE art installation
📍Indoor Rock Climbing
📍Minus 5᷾°Experience

Get on the Duece and ride all the way down to Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay is a luxurious hotel in the center of the action during events at Raider’s Allegiant Stadium

Things to do:

📍Fan District:  If you are in town for a Raiders home game, this is the place to be. Eat, drink, and celebrate before or after the game.

📍1923 Prohibition Bar:  Go behind the bookcase and be transported in time to the prohibition era.  This is a great place to relax with a craft cocktail.

📍Shark Reef Aquarium
As you walk through the aquarium you will feel as though you are part of this fascinating underworld. The colorful fish delight all who enter their world. But look out! Sharks overhead, and to the side. You never know where they are lurking.

Luxor & Excalibur

If you are interested in a few great Instagramable pictures, take the FREE tram from Mandalay Bay to Luxor and Excalibur Casinos next door. There isn’t much to see inside either hotel, but the giant Pyramid and Sphinx make fantastic photo ops.

New York New York

New york new york las vegas casino skyline.

Exit the tram at the end and walk over to New York New York. The Statue of Liberty and The Brooklyn Bridge are popular photo spots along Las Vegas Boulevard. If roller coasters are your thing, then this is the best time for you to ride The Big Apple Coaster.

The Brooklyn Bridge is a fun place to listen to music on weekends. Other than that, I wouldn’t spend too much time here.

Things to do:

📍The Big Apple Coaster

Park MGM

16 foot dancing lady art installation park mgm.

Now would be a good time to take a rest, and maybe have a cocktail. You are in the Center of the Strip and have a lot of options.

Lunch suggestions:

📍  Eataly $: Every time I walk through Eataly, my mouth waters. The open-air Italian food court has everything from gelato to carbonara. There are plenty of tables or counter seating available. Take some time to relax while people watching.

📍  Primrose  $$: Park MGM: They have me at “Rose’ All Day”. Plus it is hard to resist deep-dish pancakes and eggs benedict. Primrose is a great restaurant to relax and be served.

Aria

Aria is a beautiful casino. A quick walkthrough is all you need if you desire. The restaurant and lounges are fantastic.

The Shops at Crystals

Step into the world of luxury at The Shops at Crystals, a haven of high-end fashion where you can find designer treasures from the likes of Balenciaga, Tiffany & Co, and Tom Ford. It’s a paradise for those who appreciate the finer things, offering a chance to explore and indulge in exquisite creations.

Whether you’re a fashionista or just looking to treat yourself, this upscale haven promises a shopping experience like no other.

Cosmopolitan Hotel & Casino

Largest chandelier in the world.

The Cosmopolitan is our favorite hotel in Las Vegas. Combining an eclectic vibe with swanky decor, The Cosmopolitan has a host of hidden restaurants and bars, not to mention the World’s Largest Chandelier.

Enjoy a fabulous Las Vegas sunset at the Boulevard Pool in the summer or s’mores and ice skating in the winter. Slip into one of the secret speakeasies like Ghost Donkey or the Ski Lodge. Or, simply photograph the quirky art installations throughout the hotel.

 

StroTip:

Speakeasies are small cocktail rooms or secret parlors most of the time hidden in plain sight. Sometimes there is only a clue on the entrance door.  The Cosmopolitan is creative in disguising its hidden gems.  From a working barber shop to a high-end pawn shop, you never know what’s behind the wall until you ask.

These are three of our favorites:

📍Ghost Donkey: Shhh- it’s located behind the green exit door, near Hattie B’s Nashville Chicken.  There is a white donkey decal on the door.  Just come on in!

📍Ski Lodge:  Shhh-it’s located across from the Wicked Spoon Buffet.  Look for the door with a ski lift chair, or ask the hostess at Superfrico.  There is always something weird in here.

📍Secret Pizza: Shhh- it’s located on Level 3 between Blue Ribbon and Jaleo.  Look for the hallway lined with record albums.  Seriously, the pizza is perfect!

Bellagio Hotel and Casino

Bellagio fountains 1

 

The Bellagio sits center stage on The Las Vegas Strip and for good reason.

The hotel is both elegant and enormous.  However, the most impressive event is out front in full view of all: The world-famous Bellagio Fountains.

 

Things to do:

📍The Bellagio Fountains:  Every 30 minutes the fountains erupt in a beautifully choreographed dance. This show is not to be missed. Reaching heights of 400 feet, the dancing fountains are unbelievably beautiful.

📍The Bellagio Conservatory:  Step inside the Bellagio and wander through the conservatory. The installations are colorful and carefully curated. Walking through the gardens is a special treat.

📍The World’s Largest Chocolate Fountain:  Need we say more?  Well, if that didn’t do it, how about the most unique display of macaroons?  Simply delicious!

Caesars Palace

Replica statue of david.

Caesars Palace is a Las Vegas icon. Outside, statues line the plaza. Inside, the magic comes alive.

📍David:  Find the 18-foot replica statue of Michelangelo’s David in all of his glory.  If you can’t get to Florence, there’s always Vegas Baby!

📍Atlantis Show:  Stick around for the free Water and Fire Show, on the hour.  In the Great Hall experience the battle between the elements.  With effects of sight and sound, prepare to be spellbound for a few minutes.

📍Vanderpump Cocktail Garden:  For those who are intrigued with pop culture, stop by the Vanderpump Cocktail Garden. It is a whole different world.

Linq Promenade

Pedestrian mall at linq promenade las vegas.

The Linq Promenade is a pedestrian-only mall and outdoor party. There are plenty of restaurants bars and shopping in this area. Although the promenade is not necessarily a must-see, The High Roller Ferris wheel located here is.

High Roller

The High Roller is the tallest Ferris wheel in the United States and ranks 2nd tallest in the world. Standing 550 feet, the view from the top is outstanding. With panoramic viewing from the comfortable passenger pods, the complete ride takes about 30 minutes.

By timing your trip right, you can catch the city’s magical transformation from day to night, framed by the brilliance of a Las Vegas sunset, right from this towering vantage point.

Paris Hotel and Casino

Eiffel tower las vegas.

End your day with a breathtaking view from the observation platform of the Eiffel Tower. From 46 stories high above the Strip, the views are outstanding, especially after nightfall.

 

 Dinner Suggestions

Being in the middle of the Strip, your dining options are many! Every celebrity chef has a restaurant and they are outstanding.  Reservations are recommended.

📍Bacchanal Buffet:  Caesars Palace: Hands down, the most epic buffet you can imagine.

📍Giada:  The Cromwell:  Italian comfort food with style and flair.

📍Mon Ami Gabi: Paris:   Wine and Dine outside on the outside patio.

StroTip:

For a relaxing dinner away from the crowds, we suggest the iconic Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge.

The food is amazing, priced right with great service and the parking is FREE. However, if you are not driving, consider taking an Uber or Lyft to the front door of the restaurant. Otherwise, it may be a block or 2 from where the Deuce makes its stop.

This Peppermill has been featured in movies and videos, making it a Las Vegas favorite.

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #3:  Evening

Night-time Helicopter Tour

From high above the center of the action, see Las Vegas from the sky.  Las Vegas is a colorful town and begs to be seen at night.  What better way than to see it by helicopter?

The Neon Museum

Tour the neon museum in your las vegas itinerary 5 days.

An evening tour of the Neon Museum is a special treat, many of the vintage signs are all lit up! Hearing tales of the bygone era allows a glimpse into what “Old Las Vegas” was like back in the day.

Otherwise known as the neon boneyard, this museum holds Las Vegas treasures like the Hard Rock Guitar, The Stardust, and the Ugly Duckling to name a few.

The Neon Museum is a must-see and do on your 5-day Las Vegas itinerary.

Unless you are driving, take an Uber or Lyft to the Neon Museum. We do not recommend trying to walk here, especially at night after you’ve been out all day..

StroTip

Book a combination night-time helicopter tour and Neon Museum Tour.  Seeing Las Vegas from the sky is extraordinary!  Give yourself another on your bucket list adventures.

For availability and pricing:

Helicopter Tour and Neon Museum Tour package

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #4: All-Day

Day #4 is a day filled with options. Las Vegas has so many things to do, besides gamble, it is impossible to do everything on a 5-day Las Vegas itinerary. If you have followed along, though, you have made a pretty good dent in covering the city.

There are so many day trips from Vegas, that it is hard to list them all here. Day 4 is a good time to take advantage of the beautiful National Parks or party like a rockstar!

Collage of natural landscapes mountains, emerald green cave kayak and hoodoos.

 

Option #1: Full-day Tour: Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is a few hours away and worth the trip, especially if this is your only opportunity. If you only have one day to visit, then we suggest a bus trip or helicopter flight to the Grand Canyon.

Option #2:Full-Day Tour: Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

Just a few hours north of Las Vegas are two of America’s most beautiful National Parks, Bryce Canyon and Zion. Relax in comfort as the motorcoach takes you to these extraordinary parks. Enjoy the views and many scenic overlooks throughout the parks.

Option #3:  Half-day Tour: Emerald Cove Kayak Tour

For those who are looking to connect with nature, a kayak tour might be your best option. You can relax in the morning, then take an early afternoon tour. Sunshine, beautiful scenery, and pristine water are the perfect amenities for an afternoon in this desert oasis.

Option #4: Party Like a Rock Star

 

Add a pool party or nightclub to your las vegas itinerary 5 days.

Pool Party-Day Clubs

Day clubs and pool parties are all the rage in Las Vegas. In true Las Vegas style, the parties are off the hook with tons of people. Grab your bikini, book a cabana or daybed, and dance the day away.

 

Nightclubs

This is your night to fancy yourself up and hit a nightclub. Dance the night away in any of the Las Vegas hotspots. Immerse yourself in the music and light shows. Order bottle service and enjoy the party.

There is nothing quite like a Las Vegas nightclub. If this is your scene and bucket list adventure, don’t miss your night. Call to get on the guest list now!

StroTip

Leave the driving to the professionals.  See the sights, skip the lines, and arrive in style.  These are a few of the highest-rated tours for exploring the daylife and the nightlife.

Click NOW for Pricing and Availability:

Grand Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park

Kayak Emerald Caves

Las Vegas Pools and Day Clubs

Las Vegas Nightlife

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #5: Daytime

Take some time today to rest and recover. Stay in bed for a few extra hours, order room service or book a rejuvenating spa treatment.

When you’re ready, head out to the Strip for shopping and last-minute souvenirs. This is a good time to check out the last few sights you may have missed.

Area 15

Post apocalyptic sign of welcome to las vegas

Area 15 is one of the newest hotspots in Las Vegas.  This HUGE entertainment complex combines art installations, eateries, and the most imaginative, immersive experiences.

Tour the Lost Distillery, shop in the super weird Omega Mart and experience the extraordinary at Illuminarium.

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #5:  Nighttime

 Celebrate

Four glasses of wine.

 

Let your last night in Vegas be a celebration. You have uncovered more of this fascinating city than most because you followed along in this 5-Day Las Vegas Itinerary.

Tonight should be a special time to laugh and share your best Las Vegas moments. When we travel to Las Vegas with friends, we always set aside the last night for this occasion.

 

StroTip

These are our suggestions for dinner:

📍Mayfair Supper Club
Prepare for an evening of entertainment and dinner beyond the ordinary. This is Las Vegas Baby! With the Bellagio Fountains as the backdrop, the entertainers will keep you dazzled while you enjoy a feast prepared for royalty.

This is more than dinner and a show, The Mayfair Supper Club is an experience.

📍Top of the World
For an over-the-top dining experience, The Top of The World is waiting. Enjoy a fabulous dinner with a view at 106 stories above the Las Vegas Strip at The Stratosphere. The panoramic views are outstanding as the restaurant revolves 360 degrees giving you Las Vegas in every direction.

📍Golden Steer
The Golden Steer is a Las Vegas icon. The ambiance makes us feel like we have stepped back in time and the Rat Pack might walk through the door. For over 50 years, The Golden Steer has been serving steaks, chops, and seafood.

Don’t be turned off by the outside appearance as it is located in a strip mall. The friendly staff and white linen tablecloths add to your dining experience. However, the food is the main event.

Before dinner, we enjoy having cocktails at another Las Vegas icon, The Mint right next door. Maybe you will too!

Las Vegas Itinerary Day #6 Bonus Day

Man entering an elevator with luggage.

Time to pack up and head for the airport! Remember to arrive 2 hours before departure if flying domestically. Sometimes, Harry Reid Airport can be a nightmare.

Remember to check all of the drawers, electric outlets, and behind the doors for anything you may have forgotten.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit Las Vegas?

The best time to visit Las Vegas is when you have the time and the money. Gone are the days of the $1.99 buffets and $2 cab rides. Everything costs money in Las Vegas.

Fall brings more comfortable temperatures, as well as the Raiders football and Golden Knights hockey games. Traffic can be horrendous.

Winter is chilly but dry. The few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are less busy, except of course during rodeo week.  The Holiday decorations are over the top, and definitely worth seeing.

Spring can be windy, but the temperatures are moderate. March seems to be one of the busiest months for Las Vegas tourism.

Summer is HOT. In fact, it is incredibly HOT, often reaching triple digits before 8am.

Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas?

City center las vegas.

With a vast selection of rooms in Las Vegas, the initial question arises: where to begin? The answer is clear – rely on advice from trusted sources like us.

From ultra-luxury to budget-friendly, you can find what you want.

 

 Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas: On The Strip

For newcomers and those who want to be in the center of the action, a casino hotel on the Strip will give you a full Las Vegas experience.

Keep in mind these sprawling hotels require significant walking, from check-in to your room. It is worth noting that the Strip can be on the pricier side.

📍MGM Park

 

Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas: Fremont Street

Opting for downtown Fremont might feel like a distinct departure from the Strip’s hustle and bustle.

If you’re a fan of serene mornings and lively nights, Fremont Street might be your ideal pick. Hotels here are more intimate and modest compared to their flashier counterparts on The Strip.

📍Circa

 

How To Get Around Las Vegas

Girls in a limousine.

Rental Car:
Renting a car in Las Vegas is super simple, with handy spots at Harry Reid Airport and lots of hotels. You’ve got options, from fancy sedans to rugged SUVs, and if you’re up for a special treat, you can go all out and drive something exotic like a Rolls Royce or a Lamborghini.

Ride Share:
Using ride share transportation such as Lyft and Uber can be a convenient, safe way to navigate the city. From the app, order your car and your driver shows up at the designated meeting place. Fares are determined at booking, so you don’t have to worry about inflated fees.

Elite Car Service:
Of course, there are always elite car service companies such as Limos.com and Blacklane. Order a stretch limousine and cruise the Strip in style!

Taxi:
Taxi service is still a thing in Las Vegas. Most hotels have a convenient taxi stand with cabbies lined up to take you to your next location.

The Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is a fun way to explore the Strip. The route stretches from MGM Grand all the way to Las Vegas Sahara, with plenty of stops in between.

The Duece
Riding the Duece is both convenient and cost-effective. The double-decker city bus transports passengers from points on Las Vegas Blvd, to Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street.

 

5-Day Las Vegas Itinerary Conclusion

Las vegas showgirls art installation.

For some, Las Vegas is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and destination “bucket list” adventure. For others like us, the first trip to Las Vegas will ignite a deep love affair causing us to visit as often as possible.

On a final note, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, especially if you are drinking alcohol. It is too easy to become dehydrated in the desert.

We put together this video on surviving Las Vegas, we hope it helps.

Travel Safe and Adventure Often! Viva Las Vegas!!!

 

Maureen Wright and Robb Strobridge

The Stromads

Maureen wright & robb strobridge,  the stromads.

 

Entrepreneurs, Wanderlusters, Constant travelers, and Full-time RV Nomads since 2016.  We are fueled by life, love, and the pursuit of all things good.  Thanks for joining our journey and we hope to see you down the road!

Cadillac Ranch
Art, Iron, and a Spray-Painted Revolution

Ten Cadillacs, tailfins and all, buried nose-first in a field just off I-40. From a distance, it looks like a surreal junkyard. Up close, it’s a rainbow of spray paint, rust, and road trip energy.

Back in 1974, an art group called Ant Farm proposed the idea as a critique of American consumerism. Stanley Marsh 3 loved it. He gave them the land and the funding, and Cadillac Ranch was born.

Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark. And Marsh? He loved the chaos.

Graffiti-covered Cadillacs half-buried in the ground at Cadillac Ranch, one of the most iconic things to see in Amarillo.

Floating Mesa
An Optical Illusion in the Middle of Nowhere

The top of the mesa looks like it’s levitating. Stanley Marsh 3 painted a strip of white metal sheeting around its rim to match the sky—an unfinished illusion meant to fool the eye and unsettle the mind.

On clear afternoons, it works. The mesa floats. And Marsh, in typical fashion, never explained it.

Ozymandias on the Plains – Giant Legs
and a Not-So-Subtle Jab at Lubbock

Two giant stone legs in the middle of a field. No torso, just socks. It’s a nod to Shelley’s famous poem, but also a rumored jab at rival city Lubbock—legend says the statue faces south, mooning them.

Stanley Marsh 3 funded this, too. Satire, prank, or both? Probably both.

Graffiti-covered giant pair of legs in a field—an unusual roadside attraction among things to see in Amarillo.

The Dynamite Museum
Street Signs That Ask the Wrong Questions

No dynamite. No museum. Just hundreds of bizarre street signs placed across town in the ’90s by Marsh 3 and a band of local artists.

Signs read things like “Road Does Not End” and “Hope is a Naked Dance.” Many are gone now, but some still pop up—tiny time bombs of confusion in Amarillo’s neighborhoods.

Slug Bug Ranch – A Beetle Graveyard Gets a Second Life at the Big Texan

Originally planted outside of town as a twist on Cadillac Ranch, five VW Beetles were buried nose-down and left to rot in colorful glory. The owners of the nearby convenience store had hoped this quirky installation would steer curious drivers off the highway and into their shop.

But over time, the Longhorn Trading Post saw fewer visitors and eventually shut down. The corner became a graffiti-covered ghost town and a garden of Volkswagen skeletons.

The Conway land was later sold, and Slug Bug Ranch found a new home in the parking lot of the Big Texan Steak Ranch. There aren’t any ghosts in this version (that we know of), but it’s still one of the weirder sights to stumble across in Amarillo.

 

Helium Monument
A Time Capsule with a $10 Bet on the Future

A monument to helium, featuring time capsules sealed to be opened in 1993, 2018, 2068, and one in 2968. That last one includes a bank passbook with a $10 deposit from 1968. Some say it could be worth a quadrillion dollars by the time it’s opened—assuming we still use money.

It’s nerdy, wild, and perfectly Amarillo.

Close-up of the Helium Monument's atomic model sculpture—an iconic and educational thing to see in Amarillo.

Jack Sisemore RV Museum
Chrome, Campers, and Cross-Country Dreams

A private collection of vintage RVs, including the motorhome from RV (yes, the Robin Williams movie) and the first-ever full-time RV family’s rig. Each one is set up with period furniture, maps, and decor.

More than a museum—it’s a walk through America’s road-tripping soul.

Amarillo Railroad Museum
Where Model Trains Meet Cold War Secrets

A great little museum with working model trains, but the star is outside: a Cold War-era “White Train” that once secretly transported nuclear weapons across the U.S. from the nearby Pantex Plant.

No velvet ropes. Just a piece of history standing quietly in the Panhandle sun.

Pantex Plant
The Most Dangerous Place You’ll Never Tour

Still in operation today, Pantex is the primary nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility in the U.S. It’s high-security, off-limits, and unnervingly close to cattle country.

It casts a long shadow over Amarillo, one most people don’t talk about—but it’s there.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Growing Beauty Where It Shouldn’t Exist

We probably would’ve laughed if you asked us to picture a botanical garden in Amarillo. Not because the Panhandle isn’t beautiful, but because it’s where the wind can knock over your coffee, dog, and will to live—all in the same afternoon.

And yet, just behind the medical center, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens bloom defiantly—like a full-color dream planted in the middle of the Dust Bowl.

The story starts in the 1920s, when a group of gardening enthusiasts—yes, in Amarillo—formed a club focused on landscaping and beautification. It wasn’t easy. The ground was dry, the climate harsh, and the odds were long. But after weathering the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and decades of development, that club grew into something permanent: a full-fledged public garden.

We haven’t made it inside yet, but what we’ve seen from the outside is enough to spark curiosity. Locals rave about the mix of native plants, seasonal beds, and the glowing tropical conservatory that lights up like a greenhouse spaceship at night.

But what makes it weird—in the best way—is that it shouldn’t exist here. This isn’t a garden built for Instagram. It’s a slow, determined response to a harsh climate by people who looked around at bare dirt and said, “Let’s grow something anyway.”

Even just standing near the gates, it feels like a quiet rebellion. And on our next trip through town, it’s at the top of our list.

Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park
A Monument to Peace on Route 66

Driving along Route 66, just east of Amarillo, you might spot something unexpected: a large peace sign rising from the prairie, surrounded by a circle of pedestals bearing dates and messages. This is the Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park, also known as the Stoner Patriot Peace Garden of All Faiths.

The park is a personal tribute to peace and unity created by Richard Daniel Baker, a local farmer and retired telephone repairman. Each pedestal marks a significant date in history, inviting visitors to reflect on the events that have shaped our world. The park blends symbols from various faiths and philosophies, emphasizing a message of universal harmony.

While not widely known, Peace Park offers a quiet space for contemplation amidst the vast Texas landscape. It reminds us that even in the most unassuming places, one person’s vision can create a lasting impact.

The Nat
Big Bands, Buried Pools
and a Haunted Attic That Won’t Quit

Step inside The Nat on Route 66; it feels like time forgot to move on. High ceilings. Vintage lighting. A retro stage just begging for a swing band. Today, it’s a sprawling antique mall—but behind the shelves of records and racks of rhinestone jackets is one of Amarillo’s best-kept (and strangest) secrets.

It used to be a pool.

Initially opened in 1922 as The Natatorium, it was a public indoor swimming pool—back when that was considered a glamorous, almost futuristic idea. Amarillo locals swam here in the roaring ’20s, splashing beneath stained glass windows and ornate fixtures. But by the 1930s, swimming was out, and swing was in.

Rather than tear it all down, the owners did something wonderfully weird: they drained the pool and built a dance floor right over it.

Suddenly, the Nat became one of the hottest dance halls in the Texas Panhandle. Everyone who was anyone came through—Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong. On any given weekend, you could dance the jitterbug straight across a former swimming pool, the music echoing off walls that once smelled of chlorine.

But that’s not the whole story.

In the attic—closed to the public and rarely talked about—people say something lingers. Past employees whisper about footsteps when no one’s upstairs. Cold spots. Doors that open on their own. One person swears they heard a piano playing softly, even though the building was locked and empty.

No one’s quite sure who—or what—might be haunting the place. A lost dancer? A musician who never left? Or maybe just the building itself, too full of memories to sit still.

We wandered the maze of vintage booths downstairs but couldn’t help looking up. There’s something about The Nat that hums under the surface. A little glamour. A little grit. And just enough mystery to make you glance over your shoulder.

 

Amarillo Historical Museum
One Man’s Obsession, Amarillo’s Memory Box

We love a good museum. But what we love is weird; from everything we’ve heard, the Amarillo Historical Museum checks all the boxes. Tucked into a modest building just off I-40, it’s not flashy or state-run. It’s a passion project—curated by a local historian who’s spent years collecting Amarillo’s odd, overlooked, and offbeat stories.

By the time we got there, the doors were closed for the day, but just peeking through the windows and reading about it later was enough to convince us that this place is high on our list for the next time we pass through town.

From what we’ve gathered, the rooms are packed with memorabilia: signs from long-gone businesses, Civil War relics, rotary phones, cattle brand records, and—somehow—more mannequins than you’d expect in one zip code. It’s part thrift store, part time capsule, and completely Amarillo.

The museum is run by a local storyteller known for giving off-script tours filled with local lore you won’t find on plaques. If the basement’s open, it might hold anything from a bomb shelter display to outlaw memorabilia to a forgotten fire engine.

No promises—but if it’s open when you come through, it might be the weirdest attic in the Panhandle.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Gimmicks and Giant Steaks

You can spot it from the highway: bright yellow walls, oversized cowboy signs, and a banner that dares you to eat a 72-ounce steak—plus sides—in under an hour. Welcome to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo’s most famous and ridiculous institution.

This place is more than a restaurant. It’s an experience.  And yes, the 72-ounce steak challenge is real. You sit on a raised stage in the middle of the dining room while everyone watches you attempt to conquer four and a half pounds of beef, a baked potato, shrimp cocktail, salad, and a roll. Fail, and you pay the bill. Win, and your meal is free—plus you get bragging rights and a photo on the wall of fame (or shame).

But the weird doesn’t stop at the steak.

There’s a shooting gallery in the lobby. A full ice cream parlor and brewery on-site. Taxidermy watches you eat. And if you’re staying at the Big Texan Motel, they’ll pick you up in one of their custom-painted limos with longhorns on the hood. 

And now, the restaurant is home to the relocated Slug Bug Ranch—because nothing says Texas like spray-painted Volkswagens next to a giant fiberglass steer.

We’ve been here more than once, not because we needed another steak, but because the place is like a fever dream that somehow works. It’s weird, loud, a little unhinged—and somehow, perfectly Amarillo.

 

So… Why Is Amarillo So Weird?

Some places hide their weird. Amarillo wears it like a badge.

You don’t just visit Amarillo—you try to figure it out. It’s a city that buries Cadillacs in a field, outlines mesas to float, and honors helium with a time capsule full of Spam. It’s where dance floors are built over drained pools, and old hospitals whisper secrets when the wind shifts. It’s art and science, kitsch and chaos, sometimes unsettling, often hilarious—and always layered with stories.

And if there’s one thread that runs through it all, it might be Stanley Marsh 3—the millionaire trickster who helped turn public art into public curiosity. But Amarillo’s weirdness goes far beyond him. It’s in the antique mall mannequins, the painted Beetles, the radioactive past, and the peaceful protest planted in a park.

We’ve wandered every corner of this town, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this:

Amarillo doesn’t care if you understand it. It just wants you to look twice.

So if you’re driving through and tempted to skip it, don’t. Pull over. Wander. Let the wind slap your face and the stories sink in.

Because in Amarillo, the weird isn’t just a sideshow.

It’s the main event.

Maureen Wright and Robb Strobridge

The Stromads

The Stromads at a speakeasy for date night.

Entrepreneurs, Wanderlusters, Constant travelers, and Full-time RV Nomads since 2016.  We are fueled by life, love, and the pursuit of all things good.  Thanks for joining our journey and we hope to see you down the road!

RV Couple with Renegade Verona LELTS

ROBB AND MAUREEN

THE STROMADS

RVing, traveling, and exploring should be fun.

Robb and I have compiled a list of resources that will help you save time and money.

Our suggestions will help eliminate decision fatigue and get you on the road to your next adventure.

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