13 Best Things To Do on Fremont Street
There is a saying that I once heard, I can’t remember where for the life of me; “If you’ve been to Vegas, but you haven’t been to Fremont Street, then you’ve not really experienced the city.” I must say, it is a phrase that has remained with me since I heard it.
I bet you didn’t know that Fremont Street is the second most famous street in Las Vegas after the Strip! Fremont Street is the heartbeat of downtown Las Vegas. It was founded in 1905 and was actually the first road to be paved in Vegas. It was also the first street in the city to have traffic lights installed in 1931. But it’s history-making does not stop here.
It also benefited a lot when Las Vegas became the first city in Nevada to have electricity. This is because it was “invaded by lights” due to the electricity generated by Hoover Dam, hence its nickname, Glitter Gulch. If you visit today, you will understand why the name is still very accurate.
So what can you do on Fremont Street? Let's take a look.
#1: Enjoy the Fremont Street Zipline (Slotzilla)
This is arguably one of the most popular things that you can do on Fremont Street. The zipline lets you soar above the crowds down below and you get to cover five city blocks.
Prices vary according to the time that you want to go. However, the average price is $50 per person. Book in advance if you want to avoid long lines, especially if you're in Vegas during peak periods like the holidays.
#2: Have Your Picture Taken at the Symphony Park Pipe Dream
This is a colorful sculpture located at Symphony Park called Pipe Dream. Although it is not technically on Fremont Street, it is located very close to it, and it should be on your list if you want a free cultural experience. The bonus is that not many people know about it. So, you will never find it crowded, regardless of the time you visit.
#3: Enjoy Delicious Food
One of the commonly misunderstood things about Fremont Street is that the quality is lower than that of the Strip because it is cheaper. This is not true. There are many high-end restaurants located in Old Vegas with very high-quality offerings.
For example, there is Hugo’s Cellar, which has a classical romantic vibe. It's located in the basement of Four Queens Hotel and Casino.
There are also unique attractions like the Heart Attack Grill, so named because the food it offers is terrible for your health. They even give you a hospital gown as you eat. In fact, people over 350 pounds eat for free! Hey, this is Vegas. The restaurant serves chocolate milkshakes with butter and they're not as revolting as they sounds.
#4: Visit Casinos on Fremont Street
Like in most parts of Vegas, there is no shortage of casinos on Fremont. You can gamble, play games, and enjoy yourself. But don’t use all your money because there is still much to do, including drinking.
#5: Watch the Fremont Street Light Show
There is an enormous pavilion that covers the whole pedestrian walkway of Fremont Street. It is 1,375 feet long, 90 feet wide, and is also 90 feet above the ground. It has the Fremont Street Light Show that you can watch. There is an additional gigantic digital display that will take your breath away.
From 6 pm to 2 am daily, the lights go off and the gigantic display shows a music and light show. It is completely free entertainment, and very fun to watch.
#6: Go on a Fremont Street Walk Tour
Walk tours are not lame, especially if you do them in Fremont. You will be surprised how fascinating they are!
- History Walking Tour: See the very many cool and unique places in Downtown Vegas. You will learn all the secret spots and have an opportunity to pose with a million dollars because you will pass through Binion’s.
- Pop Culture Walking Tour: You will learn how Vegas got started and how it was run by the mob. You will also learn about “Mormon bankers” and how Sin City developed as an entertainment getaway.
#7: Ride Amusement Park Style Rides at the Stratosphere
If you are interested in roller coasters, modified bungee jumping, and space shots, then this is an activity for you. They are all available on top of the Strat (initially called the Stratosphere). You will experience these exhilarating attractions if you want.
#8: Hop on a Tour Bus with an Open Top
Open tour buses are very exciting and fun. They are a great way to explore both Downtown Vegas and Las Vegas Strip. Check out the Las Vegas 3-Hour Night Tour by Open-Top Bus that goes through Fremont Street.
#9: View Street Performers
Downtown Vegas is quite popular for its street performers. They have a unique quality because they are found only on specific spots. When you walk around, you will see contortionists, showgirls, celebrity impersonators, and magicians. There are also acrobats, musicians, and artists. There are even things that should never be seen on broad daylight, like overly sexy and nearly naked nuns.
#10: Attend Free Concerts and Live Band Shows on Multiple Stages
Free concerts are probably one of the best things about Fremont Street. This depends on the time of year that you visit. There are many free shows that start at 6 pm on different stages, filled with different acts. You are definitely going to get what you want. There are also consistent performers and local bands.
#11: Sidewalk Bars
Sidewalk bars are another unique perk in Fremont Street. There are many areas in which you can openly consume your drink. You can even order uncomfortably large drinks and consume them as you walk around. The prices are cheaper than what you will find on the Strip, and many bartenders double up as performers. So you get to watch them as you drink.
#12: Marvel at Antiques at Main Street
Main Street contains fascinating collectibles that you can explore for hours. No matter how many times you visit, you will always get something new. Don’t forget the Berlin Wall section in the men’s room of the casino.
#13: Check Out Las Vegas’ First Movie Theater
El Portal was the first Vegas movie theater, and it is still standing on Fremont Street. It was also the first air-conditioned building in the city. You can find it across The D Las Vegas, though it is currently a gift shop.