I love Las Vegas. I’m pretty sure that’s not a surprise. There’s just something about the city that draws me in and makes me want to stay. I’ve been there a handful of times, and usually, I’m by myself.
There are so many things you can do while traveling solo in Las Vegas. And you don’t have to stick around in the city all day every day to have fun! Some of my favorite things to do are just outside the city.
1. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Did you know you can see the Hoover Dam from space?
The incredible feat of engineering took five years to build during the Great Depression. Take a tour of the dam in order to learn all about it and its history. The Mini Hoover Dam Tour is about 3 hours and will satisfy your curiosity while still allowing time to explore around the lake. If you want something a little longer, the Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour lasts about six hours.
After touring the dam, drive through Lake Mead National Recreation Area. There are plenty of small dirt roads to take you away from the main areas where people are likely to cluster. Follow one out to a secluded beach near the lake or find a hiking trail. Don’t forget to bring your annual park pass and save a little bit of money since the land is operated by the National Park Service.
2. Hike the Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is to the north of Lake Mead National Recreation area one of the most beautiful state parks I’ve ever been to. Something about the red color of the rock and being in the desert always has me coming back for more and more and more. Every time I’m there, I always have to drive through at the very least.
The state park has plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to make anyone happy. Pack some lunch and plenty of water and head out into the desert for a few hours.
Read More: The Valley of Fire
3. Free concerts and a zipline on Fremont Street
If you choose to stick around Fremont Street during the day, which you really should book your hotel for Fremont Street, take a historical walking tour of downtown. But the real fun on Fremont Street starts after dark.
Before all the late-night fun and partying starts, book a time to do the zipline at the start of the street. You can either go the half distance or the whole way. I was way too much of a chicken to do it (I’m terrified of heights), but my sister did the full length on a previous trip and enjoyed it.
Three stages are set up on the streets between the hotels where local bands cover classic songs. Grab a frozen daiquiri from one of the many bars on the street and enjoy the music.
4. Watch the fountain show at the Bellagio
As much as I always say Fremont Street is better than the strip, there are a few things you need to venture to the Strip for. Like the fountain show in front of the Bellagio. You can’t go to Las Vegas and not see it.
Shows run every 30 minutes 3 pm to 8 pm daily. The show is much better after dark and I do recommend seeing it when everything is lit up. The best spot to watch the show is on the street side as close to the middle as you can get.
5. People watch
Las Vegas wouldn’t be Vegas without the people.
You have to go and experience the city for yourself.
Pin this to your travel inspiration board!
Have you been to Las Vegas solo? What did you enjoy doing while you were there? Share in the comments below!
Photo Credits
#1 – Photo by Elisabeth Lindsay
#2 – Photo by Bob Bowie
#3 – Photo by Holden Baxter
#4 – Photo by Brian Kraus
#5 – Photo by Nick Fewings
