Things to Do in Las Vegas (2025)
The Neon Museum Las Vegas
Museum · Cultural Corridor
This nonprofit boneyard of classic Vegas signage pairs nighttime tours with Brilliant!—a luminous projection show. Frequently recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and covered by Travel + Leisure, it’s an essential dive into the city’s visual history.
The Mob Museum
Museum · Downtown North District
In a 1933 courthouse, this nonprofit explores organized crime and law enforcement, plus a working distillery and speakeasy. Called a must for travelers by The New York Times and spotlighted by National Geographic and Las Vegas Weekly.
Springs Preserve
Nature preserve · Palomino
A 180‑acre cultural campus with botanical gardens, trails, Boomtown 1905, and family programs. Recommended by Condé Nast Traveler and praised by U.S. News Travel, it tells the story of Las Vegas at its birthplace.
The Beverly Theater
Movie theater · Las Vegas Boulevard Overlay District
Downtown’s indie cinema hosts first‑run arthouse films, revivals, author talks, and intimate concerts. Voted Best Movie Theater by Las Vegas Weekly, it anchors the city’s growing literary and film scene.
Esther's Kitchen
Italian restaurant · Downtown South
Chef James Trees’ Arts District flagship moved into a larger 2024 space; house‑made pasta and breads remain the draw. Consistently highlighted by Eater and Food & Wine, and closely covered by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal.
Lotus of Siam - Flamingo Road
Thai restaurant · Paradise North
Saipin Chutima’s Northern Thai institution still shines with khao soi, larb, and a deep Riesling‑leaning wine list. Frequently cited by Eater and Condé Nast Traveler and covered by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal.
Velveteen Rabbit
Bar · Downtown South
Sisters Pamela and Christina Dylag’s artsy cocktail den rotates seasonal menus and hosts creative programming. Regularly featured by Eater and praised by local critics for shaping the Arts District’s bar culture.
Garagiste Wine Room I Merchant
Wine bar · Downtown South
Sommelier‑run and focused on small‑production bottles, flights, and friendly guidance. Lauded by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal and frequently recommended by local editors for deepening the city’s wine culture.
Pinball Hall of Fame
Museum · Paradise
A nonprofit arcade filled with hundreds of working machines—play by the quarter and support upkeep. Verified open daily; a perennial locals’ pick and an off‑Strip classic for all ages.
The Writer's Block
Book store · Las Vegas Boulevard Overlay District
Las Vegas’s pioneering indie bookstore runs author events and free youth writing workshops. Celebrated by Publishers Weekly and named Best Bookstore by Las Vegas Weekly, it’s a literary hub downtown.
The Arts Factory
Temporarily Closed
This warehouse‑turned‑arts hub houses galleries, studios, and events at the heart of 18b. Covered by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal and beloved by locals, it’s ideal during First Friday or any afternoon stroll.
The Punk Rock Museum
Museum · Scotch 80's
An only‑in‑Vegas museum with artifacts, jam rooms, and guided tours led by punk luminaries. Actively programming in 2025 and widely covered by national and local media for its community‑driven mission.
