Throw a rock on the Strip after dark, and it’s sure to land on at least one lava-hot Vegas experience worth documenting on TikTok or Instagram.
Odds are, though, that the journey may leave you as cash-poor as it does, full of memories.
Not everyone rolls into Vegas with suitcases of Benjamins and Washingtons. You’ll need to know exactly where to head if you’re deadset on adventuring on the Strip without an adventurous cash flow.
Hence this helpful cheat sheet on the Strip’s hidden gems that won’t hit you up too hard – 50 bucks, tops. In fact, several of these only-in-Vegas experiences won’t cost you a dime…
1. Stop your heartbeat (or almost) on the Big Apple Coaster
New York-New York dares your pulse to accelerate at nearly 70 miles an hour on a ride that must be the most heart-pounding thrill on the Strip. The Big Apple Coaster’s 180-degree “heartline” twist has attracted nearly 1.5 million riders – will you be next? Just be sure to get there at least 30 minutes before they close (11 pm Mon-Thurs, midnight on weekends).
COST: $19 per person and up.
2. Spend the evening partying at Harrah’s Carnaval Court
This, the best-known open-air street party in all of Vegas, helps you feel good that you dodged all those wallet-emptying clubs for the evening. Thrilling live music, acrobatic mixologists, the can’t-miss Money Maker cocktail, and a super-late last call (4 am!), earmark the Court as the answer to your budget nightlife prayers.
COST: Free! (Minus any drinks and food you might splurge on.)
3. Get to the Party Bus Crawl Tour on time
If you were made of money, you could just pay your way into your Vegas spot of choice. Partygoers lighting up the Strip on a budget, however, are first in line for this 3-hour-and-30-minute roving fiesta that doubles as an in-demand club on wheels (with cocktails!). Better yet, Crawl Tour status offers skip-the-line VIP entry to the Strip’s hottest clubs.
PRICE: $35 per person and up.
4. Take a Strip-style selfie with a Vegas showgirl
More often than not, you can find gorgeous showgirls prettying up the atmosphere on the Strip. Ask politely, and they might just agree to pose with you for a sweet addition to your Instagram story.
COST: Up to you! Common courtesy means you should tip these lovely professionals for their generosity.
5. Maximize your wallet with an Attraction Pass
The Big Bus Night Tour, the VooDoo Ziplines, Madame Tussauds: just a handful of must-see experiences on offer to you through a well-priced tourist pass. Nab yourself a Vegas Bite Card, for example, to enjoy steep discounts on key sightseeing destinations and some truly tempting nighttime freebies.
COST: $30 per person and up.
6. Heighten your pleasure at the STRAT Observation Deck
Take-your-breath-away panoramic Vegas views lofted 1,150 feet high attract the Strip’s most experienced attraction experts to the observation deck of the Skypod at the STRAT. When you’re ready for a libation, head to the Air Bar – the highest bar in Las Vegas – for a refreshing cocktail (on your own tab).
COST: $24 per person and up
7. Find your way to the Fremont Street Experience
Downtown Vegas nights get a jolt of dynamite whenever this famed street offers a free concert. While you await a potentially major headliner to rock your world on the house, expand your eyes with the Viva Vision light shows, illuminating the ceiling every night. Got a little extra cash to spare? You’re in luck, as Fremont Street holds the entrance to a solid handful of casinos.
