10 Best Tours in Las Vegas

Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best tours in Las Vegas this year. Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, offering an array of experiences that go far beyond the glitz and glamour of its famed casinos.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Vegas veteran, taking a tour can unveil a side of the city you may have never seen before. From the neon lights of the Strip to breathtaking natural wonders just a short drive away, the tours in Las Vegas are as diverse as the visitors who flock to this entertainment capital.

Best Tours in Las Vegas

Ok, so let’s see what we can get up to in Vegas aways from the tables:

1. Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a trip out to view the spectacle that is the Grand Canyon. Noe of course in Vegas, there seems to be a tout on every corner that can sell you a ticket to see this natural wonder. And of course there are tours by bus and private vehicle as well, but one of the most spectacular ways to do it is via helicopter.

One popular option here is Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, which is recognized as the largest and most experienced Grand Canyon helicopter tour operator in the world. They have been offering daily tours since 1965 and boast exclusive landing sites within the canyon. Here’s a brief overview of what they offer:

About Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours:

• Certification: Papillon is certified to fly the entire Grand Canyon, with exclusive landing rights on Hualapai and Navajo Nation lands.
• Fleet: Their helicopters are specially designed for sightseeing, featuring oversized windows and comfort upgrades developed by their team.
• Departures: They offer tours from both the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas, ensuring maximum flight time to fully explore the southwest’s wilderness and scenic attractions.

Tour Highlights:

• North Canyon Tour: A flight over the deepest and widest parts of the Canyon, following the Colorado River from the South Rim to the North Rim.
• Imperial with EcoStar: This tour explores the North & East Rim, offering views from the EcoStar helicopter, which provides 180-degree viewing and stadium-style seating.
• Grand Celebration Tour: Departing from Las Vegas, this tour descends below the Rim to land on the Canyon floor, includes a champagne toast, and offers stunning views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Grand Wash Cliffs. If you can afford this then trust me, it is well worth the effort.
• Grand Canyon Glass Walk – Some include trips to walk out over the glass walkway as well.

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours offers a variety of experiences to suit different interests and time frames, from quick overviews of the Canyon’s highlights to immersive experiences that include landing on the Canyon floor.

Note: Speaking from experience here, I would highly recommended checking the weather reports before booking as most helicopters are grounded when winds are up.

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2. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is an architectural marvel that diverts water from the Colorado River to various parts of the southwestern United States. A National Historic Landmark, this is a popular day trip destination from Las Vegas with many options available. It’s Here are some of the best Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas:

1. Comedy on Deck Tours – Hoover Dam Ultimate VIP Tour

• Price: Adults from $90; kids from $80
• Duration: 7 hours
• Highlights: Guides double as stand-up comedians, includes a 45-minute walk across the dam, interior generator views and a sit-down lunch. Stops at the Las Vegas welcome sign and drives through historic Boulder City.

2. Gray Line Las Vegas – Half Day Hoover Dam from Las Vegas Tour

• Price: From $72
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Highlights: Round-trip transportation from the Strip, museum and visitor center access, guided power plant tour and a photo-op at the Las Vegas welcome sign.

3. Vegas Trike Adventures – VIP Deluxe Hoover Dam Trike/Slingshot Tour

• Price: From $300
• Duration: 4 hours
• Highlights: Drive a Rewaco trike or Slingshot to explore Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, Boulder City and more. No motorcycle license needed.

4. Pink Adventure Tours – Hoover Dam Tour

• Price: Adults from $114; kids from $104
• Duration: 3 hours
• Highlights: Small group tour with views of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam and the Colorado River. Includes hotel pickup in “Tour Trekker” vehicles and guided tours of the Power Plant and inspection tunnels.

5. MaxTour – Hoover Dam Walk On Top Tour with Seven Magic Mountains

• Price: From $80
• Duration: 5 hours
• Highlights: Includes stops at the Las Vegas welcome sign, Seven Magic Mountains art installation, a walking tour of the Hoover Dam and bonus stops at hidden gems.

6. Mr. Las Vegas – Hoover Dam Mini Tour

• Price: Adults from $70; kids from $65
• Duration: 3 hours
• Highlights: A shorter tour that includes panoramic views and photo-ops at the Hoover Dam, a drive through Boulder City and stops at Lake Mead and Hemenway Park.

These tours offer a variety of experiences, from quick half-day tours to full-day adventures, ensuring there’s something for everyone interested in exploring the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas.

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3. The Lake Mead Cruise Experience

The Lake Mead Cruise Experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam from the water. Aboard the Desert Princess, an authentic, three-level, Mississippi-style paddlewheeler, you can enjoy a relaxing tour just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip.

The Desert Princess is specially designed for cruising the clean, blue waters of Lake Mead, providing an unrivaled sightseeing experience.

Cruise Options Include:

• Dinner Cruise: Perfect for experiencing the serene beauty of Lake Mead under the evening sky.
• Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise: A focused tour that offers spectacular views of the Hoover Dam from the unique vantage point of the water.
• Champagne Brunch Cruise: Combines the pleasure of cruising with the enjoyment of a delicious brunch, complemented by champagne.

Highlights of the Experience:

• Scenic Views: The cruise offers breathtaking views of Lake Mead, the surrounding desert landscape and the Hoover Dam, providing ample photo opportunities.
• Comfort and Style: Whether you prefer to feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face or enjoy the climate-controlled comfort of the enclosed decks, the Desert Princess caters to all preferences.
• Versatile Tour Options: Whether you’re looking for a leisurely mid-day tour, a brunch filled with delights or a romantic evening dinner cruise, there’s an option to suit your schedule and taste.

Lake Mead Cruises is managed by Aramark and is an authorized concessioner of the National Park Service, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, ensuring a high-quality and eco-friendly tour experience. This unique adventure offers a memorable way to experience one of America’s most iconic natural landmarks and man-made wonders.

Book your trip to Las Vegas here!

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4. The Fremont Street Walking Tour

The Fremont Street Walking Tour offered by Las Vegas Walking Tours is a fun, affordable, and informative way to explore the historic heart of Las Vegas. This guided walking tour takes you through Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street, showcasing the area’s evolution from its early days to the present.

Tour Highlights:

• Union Station Site: The starting point of the tour, where Las Vegas began.
• Fremont Street Canopy: Walk through time under the world’s largest video screen, learning colorful facts and stories.
• Famous Attractions: See the Shark Tank pool and the world’s largest golden nugget on display.
• Fremont East: Explore this newly revitalized district, known as Las Vegas’ Greenwich Village, featuring restaurants, clubs and shopping.
• Downtown Container Park: A family-friendly shopping and dining plaza made partially from recycled shipping containers, serving as the hub of Fremont East.
• Off Fremont Casinos, Mob Museum Locale, Neon Museum Artifacts: Discover more about Las Vegas’ history and culture beyond the main street.
• Gold & Silver Pawn (Pawn Stars), Historic Wedding Chapels & City Buildings: Available with a ‘Pawn Stop’ add-on.

Tour Details:

• Price: $35 per person
• Walking Distance: .7 Mile (1.4 miles with ‘Pawn Stop’ Add-On)
• Features: Wireless audio headset and an English-speaking guide to ensure a personal and immersive experience.

Las Vegas Walking Tours has received accolades such as the TripAdvisor ‘Travelers’ Choice’ Award and the ‘Certificate of Excellence’ for five consecutive years, highlighting their commitment to providing an exceptional touring experience. The tour is designed to accommodate families, couples and solo travelers alike, offering a unique opportunity to meet other travelers from around the world.

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5. Vegas Balloon Rides

Vegas Balloon Rides offers an unforgettable hot air balloon experience over the Mojave Desert, providing a unique perspective of the stunning landscape near Las Vegas. Recognized as the #1 top-rated hot air balloon ride company in Nevada, they ensure an experience of a lifetime with breathtaking views at sunrise.

Key Highlights of the Experience:

• Sunrise Launch: The adventure begins at sunrise, allowing passengers to witness the beautiful changing colors of the Mojave Desert from the sky.
• Champagne Toast: Celebrate the flight with a traditional French Champagne toast, adding a touch of elegance to the experience.
• Complimentary Transportation: Includes complimentary transportation from Las Vegas to the flying area, which is located about an hour west of the Strip, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Flight Options: Vegas Balloon Rides offers both shared and private flights, catering to different preferences and occasions.

Additional Information:

• Location: The flights take off near Las Vegas, offering stunning views of the desert landscape.
• Booking: Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on this popular experience.
• Contact: For more information or to book a flight, interested individuals can call Vegas Balloon Rides at (702) 553-3039.

This hot air balloon ride is not just a tour but an experience that combines adventure, romance and celebration. Whether you’re commemorating a special occasion or simply looking to explore Las Vegas from a different vantage point, Vegas Balloon Rides promises an unforgettable journey above the Mojave Desert.

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6. Las Vegas ATV Tours

For the more adventurous, ATV tours in the Nevada Desert offer an exhilarating way to explore the rugged landscapes and scenic beauty of the area around Las Vegas. These tours provide a unique adventure through the sandy terrains of the Mojave Desert, featuring picturesque mountain views and an opportunity to experience the desert’s vastness up close. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from ATV tours in the Nevada Desert:

Key Features of ATV Tours:

• Duration: Tours typically last for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including orientation and photo opportunities.
• Variety of Tours: Options range from Mojave Desert Adventure Tours to specific tours that include sights like the Hoover Dam, Colorado River and Lake Mead National Park.
• Experience Levels: Tours cater to all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders, with certified guides helping to select an ATV based on your experience and size. Options include 450cc ATVs or more powerful 700cc ATVs.
• Inclusions: Tours often include shuttle pickup/drop-off, safety gear and water, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure.
• Pricing: Prices start at around $100 + tax for basic tours, with more comprehensive tours including additional sights and experiences, starting at $230 + tax.

Popular ATV Tours:

• Mojave Desert Adventure ATV Tour: Focuses on the scenic beauty and rugged terrain of the Mojave Desert.
• Hoover Dam, Colorado River, Lake Mead National Park ATV Tour: Combines the thrill of ATV riding with visits to iconic landmarks.
• Las Vegas ATV Off-Road Tours: Offers a budget-friendly option with prices starting at $99.00 for desert riding experiences.

ATV tours in the Nevada Desert are an exciting way to add adventure to your Las Vegas trip, allowing you to explore the natural beauty and geological wonders of the region. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a unique way to experience the desert landscape, ATV tours offer a memorable adventure that combines speed, scenery and the spirit of exploration.

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7. The Big Bus Las Vegas Night Tour

The Big Bus Las Vegas Night Tour offers a spectacular way to see the bright lights and unique sights of Las Vegas after dark. This panoramic tour is designed to showcase the dazzling illuminations of the city’s famous landmarks, providing a memorable experience for visitors.

Key Features of the Night Tour:

• Duration: The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a comprehensive view of the city at night.
• Departure Point: Tours depart at 7:00 PM from Stop #2 (High Roller / LINQ Promenade), centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip.
• Route: The tour heads south past iconic hotels and the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, then travels north to Downtown and Old Vegas. Highlights include Fremont Street, the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, and the chance to catch Viva Vision on the world’s largest single digital display.
• Commentary: Enjoy pre-recorded commentary available in English, providing entertaining and informative insights into Las Vegas’s history, landmarks and famous figures.
• Free Mobile App: The Big Bus Tours app includes live bus arrival times, detailed maps and route information, stop images, walking directions and facts about famous landmarks and attractions.

Special Night Tour Options:

• Adults-Only Night Tour: For those looking for a night tour with a side of Vegas nightlife, this option includes live guide commentary with a cheeky twist and a welcome drink at Hard Rock Cafe.
• Late Night Tour: Includes a 30-minute stop at the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign for photo opportunities, along with live guides providing insights during the tour.

Highlights:

• Experience Las Vegas’s famous sights by night, including extravagant fountains, luxurious hotels like the Bellagio, MGM Grand and Caesars Palace, and the neon lights of Downtown.
• The tour offers spectacular views and photo opportunities, making it an ideal way to see the city’s major landmarks illuminated against the night sky.

This night tour by Big Bus Las Vegas is an excellent option for visitors wanting to experience the vibrant energy and dazzling lights of Las Vegas in a unique and comfortable way. Whether you’re interested in the city’s history, architecture, or simply want to enjoy the view, the Big Bus Night Tour provides an unforgettable evening adventure.

Book your trip to Las Vegas here!

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8. Las Vegas by Helicopter

Taking a helicopter tour in Las Vegas offers an unparalleled experience of Sin City, providing breathtaking aerial views of the city’s iconic landmarks and the surrounding desert landscapes. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from a Vegas views helicopter tour, including some of the best options available:

Popular Helicopter Tours in Las Vegas:

1. Night Flight: This is an affordable option for those looking to experience the Las Vegas Strip from above. It offers nighttime aerial views of the Strip and Downtown Las Vegas, highlighting iconic attractions and resorts like the Bellagio and the LINQ Promenade.
   • Price: From $119
   • Duration: 10-15 minutes
2. Golden Eagle: An amazing helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, flying over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead before reaching the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. This tour provides stunning views of the Colorado River, Eagle Point and Guano Point.
   • Price: From $429 (Upgrade available for $519 to include the Las Vegas Strip)
   • Duration: 3.5-4 hours
3. Grand Celebration: This tour offers a flight over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead en route to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, including a private landing 3,200 feet below the rim for champagne and breathtaking views.
   • Price: From $619
   • Duration: 3.5-4 hours
4. Grand Voyager: A full-day tour that includes an airplane flight over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, followed by a helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon’s floor and a pontoon boat ride on the Colorado River.
   • Price: From $579
   • Duration: 7 hours
5. Helicopter Food Tour: Combines a Las Vegas helicopter ride with a guided walking tour through Downtown Las Vegas, offering food tastings and stories about the city’s history, gastronomy, and culture.
   • Price: From $199
   • Duration: 1.5 hours
6. South Rim Helicopter Tour: The only tour that takes you to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, offering unparalleled views over the North and South Rims and including a Hummer ride to popular viewpoints.
   • Price: From $849
   • Duration: 9.5-10 hours

Booking Tips:

• Advance Booking: It’s recommended to book your helicopter tour in advance to secure your spot, especially for popular tours.
• Sunset Flights: If available, consider booking a sunset flight for even more spectacular views of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding desert.
• Safety and Experience: Choose reputable companies with experienced pilots and a strong safety record to ensure a memorable and safe experience.

Helicopter tours in Las Vegas offer a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding natural wonders, making them a must-do activity for visitors seeking adventure and unparalleled views. Whether you’re interested in a quick flight over the Strip or a full-day excursion to the Grand Canyon, there’s a helicopter tour that fits your interests and budget.

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9. Las Vegas Segway Foodie Tour

The Las Vegas Segway Foodie Tour combines the excitement of exploring the city on a Segway with the pleasure of tasting delicious foods from unique Las Vegas eateries. This tour is perfect for anyone who loves both food and adventure, offering a unique way to experience the culinary gems and sights of Las Vegas.

Key Details of the Segway Foodie Tour:

• Duration: The tour lasts over 3 hours, providing ample time to enjoy various food tastings and Segway riding.
• Availability: The tour is available from Monday to Saturday at 1 p.m., making it a convenient afternoon activity.
• Pricing: Adults (Ages 18+) can join the tour for a sale price of $129 (regularly $179), and children’s tickets are available for $149.

Tour Highlights:

• Unique Eateries: Guests will visit multiple unique Las Vegas eateries, mostly off the beaten path, to expose them to the hidden culinary gems the city has to offer.
• Sample Diverse Dishes: The tour allows you to indulge in various beverages and sample different dishes in a fun, collaborative way, ensuring everyone gets to taste a bit of everything.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Fun and knowledgeable guides provide entertaining facts and stories about the individual restaurants and Las Vegas history in general.
• Rotating Restaurant Partners: With restaurant partners rotating every few months, the tour offers a fresh experience every time you visit Las Vegas.

Whether you’re indoors enjoying cool air conditioning or sitting outside to enjoy the weather, the Las Vegas food tour on a Segway is a fantastic way to enjoy a perfect day in the city. It’s a must for any true foodie looking for a unique and deliciously fun Vegas experience.

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10. Vegas Offroad Experience Tour

The Vegas Offroad Experience (VOE) offers adventure seekers the chance to explore the rugged terrains and scenic landscapes surrounding Las Vegas, far from the neon lights and casino noise. These tours are designed to provide an adrenaline-pumping experience as participants navigate through desert trails, rocky paths and sometimes even sandy dunes.

Key Features of Offroad Tours

• Vehicles: Tours utilize high-performance offroad vehicles such as ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles or Side by Sides) and sometimes even dirt bikes. These vehicles are chosen for their ability to handle the challenging desert terrain.
• Duration: The length of the tours can vary, ranging from short excursions of a couple of hours to half-day or even full-day adventures.
• Guided Tours: All offroad experiences are guided by experienced professionals who know the terrain well and can lead participants to the most scenic and exhilarating parts of the desert.
• Training and Safety: Safety is a top priority, and participants are usually given a safety briefing and basic training on how to operate the offroad vehicles. Helmets and safety gear are provided to ensure a safe experience.
• Scenic Stops: While the main thrill comes from the offroad driving experience, these tours also offer the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Nevada desert, with stops at scenic viewpoints for photo opportunities.

Booking a Tour

When looking to book a Vegas Offroad Experience Tour, consider the following:

• Participant Requirements: Check for any age, height, or driver’s license requirements.
• Group Size: Some tours offer private experiences for small groups, while others may accommodate larger groups.
• Physical Requirements: Ensure you’re comfortable with the physical demands of offroad driving.
• Weather Conditions: Be prepared for the desert’s weather, which can be hot during the day and cool off rapidly after sunset.

Whether you’re looking to experience the thrill of driving a Baja Race Truck or explore the scenic beauty of the Nevada desert on an ATV or SSV, the Vegas Off-Road Experience offers something for every adventure seeker.

Booking Tips and Tricks

When you’re planning to tour Las Vegas, knowing when to book, the cancellation policies and how to score group discounts can save you both time and money.

Best Time to Book

The ideal time to book your Las Vegas tour is generally about 4-6 weeks in advance. Booking during this window can help ensure you have a broader selection of tours and times. While last-minute bookings are possible, they often come with limited options and higher prices.

Cancellation Policies

Before securing your reservation, it’s crucial to understand the cancellation policy. Many tours offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before the tour start. Always however confirm the specifics as some providers may have stricter ‘non-refundable’ policies or could include a cancellation fee.

Group Discounts

If you’re traveling with a group, inquire about group discounts. Some tour operators provide reduced rates for larger parties, so make sure to ask when you book. Such discounts are not usually advertised online, so a direct conversation with the company can lead to significant savings.

FAQs

Conclusion

And there they are, my 10 best tours in Las Vegas to fully explore the city and surrounds with this year. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything else that I should be adding.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul