Las Vegas in summer: best things to do and see

If endless fun is what you want, Las Vegas in summer will surely deliver it. The summer heat brings out the excitement in Sin City, creating the right vibe for trip-making summer activities that range from food tours to romantic dates.

Don’t let the heat put you off — Vegas is surrounded by fabulous natural landmarks and packed with indoor venues where you can catch a breeze and cool down. And some of the most fun things to do in Las Vegas are definitely best done in summer.

Here are 10 summertime experiences to add your Vegas to-do list.

Best outdoor activities

1. Get a bird’s eye view of the famous Strip

Experience the dazzling lights of Las Vegas from the best perspective — on a helicopter flight over the Strip. Soar above the city’s most iconic landmarks and while capturing breathtaking views of the other city that never sleeps.

Highlights:

Customize your helicopter tour by adding a gourmet experience at some of Las Vegas’ top restaurants or book an additional landing at Red Rock Canyon, just in time to catch the sunset.

2. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert

Las Vegas is surrounded by desert, so don't miss the chance to embark on an epic adventure. The Mojave Desert landscapes are awe-inspiring. Discover Joshua Tree forests and marvel at ancient rock formations that have stood the test of time.

Highlights:

Discover a completely different world and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day with a Las Vegas Desert ATV tour. Sunset tours are available and are perfect to escape the summer heat.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States. Tour times vary.

3. Journey back in time to vintage Las Vegas

The glamorous world of Las Vegas' mobster era is alive and kicking in the city’s speakeasies and cocktail bars. Explore the city's notorious past as you visit iconic establishments and secret hideaways that were once frequented by mobsters and bootleggers. Evening activities are a great way to keep exploring the city when the daytime temperatures get too much. The Mobsters, Casinos, and Speakeasies Bar Crawl kicks off at 4:00 PM, but the end time is up to you if you decide to keep going when the tour ends.

Highlights:

The tour opens the door to the captivating stories and legends of Las Vegas' underground scene while you enjoy a drink at each stop. More than just a bar crawl, this is a different history lesson that uncovers the secrets of Las Vegas.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 1 S Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, USA. Tour times vary.

4. Glide through the streets of Las Vegas on a Segway adventure

Don’t sweat it, there is a different way to discover the real Las Vegas, and it doesn’t require working up a sweat on foot. Zip past the city’s top landmarks as you effortlessly maneuver your Segway and enjoy the cool breeze.

Highlights:

The Las Vegas 2-hour Segway tour is suitable for beginners, as it includes free training by an expert who will show you all the tricks. Cruise along the Strip, Container Park, and Fremont Street while you listen to fascinating stories from your local guide.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 707 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, USA. Tour times vary.

5. Indulge your taste buds with a gourmet tour of Las Vegas

If the summer heat whets your appetite, you won’t want to miss a Las Vegas Secret Food Tour. Discover the vibrant food scene of Sin City as you stroll through famous eateries and learn about the culinary history of this destination.

Highlights:

Satisfy your cravings with a variety of mouthwatering tastings, from savory bites to sweet treats, all carefully curated to showcase the best international flavors of Las Vegas.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States. Tour times vary.

Best water activities

6. Go on a thrilling kayak tour of Emerald Cave

If the summer temperatures are sizzling, it is time to cool down and explore the raw beauty of Emerald Cave and the Black Canyon. The Emerald Cave clear kayak tour combines scenic views of the Black Canyon with a chance to discover the local wildlife, thanks to the clear view-bottom kayak.

Highlights:

Bring your swimsuit and a waterproof camera so you are ready to go for a dip in the Colorado River.

Address and opening hours:

25804 N Willow Beach, Willow Beach, AZ 86445, USA. Tour times vary.

7. Feel the thrill at Lake Las Vegas

Soar above the water with a flyboard adrenaline-pumping adventure on Lake Las Vegas. Strap on a jetpack and fly away while you enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Highlights:

This Lake Las Vegas Flyboard experience combines safety and fun from the hands of experienced instructors, who will show you how to master flyboarding. With the equipment provided, you can even go underwater with your gear.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 20 Costa Di Lago, Henderson, NV 89011, USA. Tour times vary.

8. Cruise to the Hoover Dam

Learn about the fascinating history and construction of this remarkable structure with a Hoover Dam raft tour. Climb aboard a raft that will take you on a memorable trip along the Colorado River with its towering canyon walls. Once you reach the Hoover Dam, you’ll have time to rest and take in the awesome view.

Highlights:

Get comfortable on the raft and let the knowledgeable guides take you on a journey through time. In this tour, you will learn the secrets of an engineering marvel that, for some time, was the world’s tallest dam.

Address and opening hours:

Meet 20 minutes before the departure time at 3300 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States. Tour times vary.

9. Embark on the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure

Some people fly over the Grand Canyon, others hike its trails, and adventure-seekers experience it from the inside with a Grand Canyon whitewater rafting trip from Las Vegas. The rapids await.

Highlights:

Part of this tour is led by Native American guides, who will share stories about the importance of this place to the history of the Hualapai Nation. This offers a unique chance to experience the power of nature and the significance of Native American heritage.

10. Life’s a beach in Las Vegas Bay

Sin City may be built on a desert, but did you know there are stunning beaches within a short drive? On a Willow Beach kayaking tour, you get to paddle through crystal-clear waters, marvel at the breathtaking desert landscape, and soak up the summer sun.

Highlights:

Paddle along one of the best Colorado River beaches, known for its calm waters and picture-perfect views. This guided kayak tour also takes you to historical sites and local fish hatcheries.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 3961 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA. Tour times vary.

FAQs

Where can I go swimming or relax by the water in Las Vegas?

Many of the city’s hotels have luxurious pool areas where you can soak up the sun and relax. If you’re looking for a different swimming experience, you cannot go wrong by booking a tour to Emerald Cave or exploring Lake Las Vegas.

Are there any great summer festivals in Las Vegas?

Of course. Las Vegas Restaurant Week is a must-visit for foodies, while music festival lovers will be at home at the Electric Daisy Carnival. If you don’t want to choose between music and food, that’s fine too: San Gennaro Feast combines both.

What are the must-visit outdoor attractions in Las Vegas?

Outdoorsy visitors are well catered to in Las Vegas with outdoor attractions like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The beaches along Las Vegas Bay make for a fabulous outdoor experience, too.

What are some great day trips to take from Las Vegas in the summer?

For cooler temperatures and great views, head to Mount Charleston, located 40 miles west of Vegas. Alternatively, take a day trip along the world-famous Colorado River. Lake Mojave is also a good option, where you will find picturesque coves and relaxing picnic spots.

What are some fun activities with kids in Las Vegas in summer?

Visit the Adventuredome, an indoor theme park that offers five acres of family fun. For an air-conditioned break, drop by the Discovery Children's Museum. And if the heat is relentless, beat it at the fun slides of Cowabunga Canyon Waterpark.