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Venturing Off the Strip: Cheap Things to Do in Las Vegas

Ah, the city of “Lost Wages,” …ahem, Las Vegas. It has every form of entertainment from games, to shows, to amazing eateries. But while what happens in Vegas may stay there, not everything fun to do is on the strip.

Whether you’re looking for a more family-friendly activity, or simply want to know what else Vegas has to offer, here are 5 cheap, AWESOME, things to do in Sin City.

1. Hike Red Rock

Southern Utah isn’t the only place in the west known for its unique red rocks. Just west of the strip and still within Las Vegas lies Red Rock National Conservation Area.

It’s a 20-minute drive from the strip but puts you right in nature among stunning peaks of red rocks, streams, and great biking trails.

For the legit outdoor adventurers, Red Rock should not be missed if you’re visiting Las Vegas. It’s one of the cheap things to do in Las Vegas that also makes for some of the best Insta photos…

2. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Mead

Vegas is in the middle of the desert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some serious water sports. Lake Mead is where the Colorado River meets the Hoover Dam.

Hop on a boat ride and take a tour of this historic site. Rent a jet ski or kayak and get up close and personal. Or, simply enjoy some cool refreshment from the Vegas heat.

However you choose to enjoy Lake Mead, you won’t be disappointed. While you’re there, make sure to stop in at Historic Boulder City, (“Home of the Hoover Dam”) and visit the world-famous “Coffee Cup Cafe.”

This quaint cafe was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives”.

3. Visit Hoover Dam

It’s one of the world’s greatest feats of engineering and a major historical landmark. The Hoover Dam offers tours in and around its amazing construction.

Take a peek at the monstrous generators that control the flow of water. Even hop on a boat ride to explore a bit of Lake Mead. 

This is a bucket list item you don’t want to miss while you’re in Vegas.

4. See the Neon Graveyard

Come pay your respects to some of the most iconic signs to grace the strip. Known among locals as the “Neon Boneyard,” the famous Neon Museum is home to over 200 retired signs from the early days of Las Vegas.

Guided tours run daily, 7 days a week so you can get the interesting background of each sign.

5. Visit the Grand Canyon

Book a Las Vegas hotel and take a day trip to one of the 7 natural wonders of the world: the Grandy Canyon.

With so much to see, it’s worth getting a tour guide to tell you about this breathtaking natural wonder. It’s one of the best things to do off the strip by far.

More Cheap Things to Do in Las Vegas

If you’re still looking for even more cheap things to do in Las Vegas, try getting in contact with one of the locals. You may be surprised at how many great family-friendly and outdoor activities there are to enjoy.

For more helpful vacation tips, read our post on Disneyland versus Disney World, and find out which is the better vacation for you.

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