Las Vegas Itinerary: A First-Timers Guide to 3 Days in Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada reigns as the Entertainment Capital of the World, wooing an incredible number of visitors from every corner of the planet.

The city was built on gambling and bawdy nightlife, but today it spoils guests with a wide range of activities. In fact, there are so many things to do, creating a Las Vegas Itinerary can be quite the conundrum.

To help fellow travelers – especially Vegas First-Timers – we have created a perfect plan for spending three days in Las Vegas!

 

About Our 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary

A 3-Day trip to Vegas allows just enough time to get a taste of what the city has to offer – and trust us, it is a lot!

You can see the flashing neon lights, eat at celebrity chef restaurants, gamble at flashy casinos and visit top attractions. And that’s just day one!

Our trip plan is ideal for a long weekend in Vegas – but it works just as well for weekdays, too!

 

First Time Las Vegas: Must-Do Activities

My first time to Vegas was a birthday trip to celebrate with friends. Beyond getting ourselves there, we had done little in the way of research.

While the weekend was a memorable one, our very loose plans resulted in missed opportunities. On a return trip, I was eager to make up for what I skipped.

I designed an itinerary for Las Vegas that featured things to do beyond the casinos and pool parties – and it was fascinating!

As I planned subsequent weekend getaways (while living in Phoenix for 10 years, there were countless Vegas trips), I challenged myself to see more. On each visit, I realized just how much I missed!

Therefore, we created our Las Vegas 3-Day Itinerary with first-time visitors in mind. That said, those who had an initial experience similar to mine will certainly find our Vegas Itinerary useful as well.

Ultimately, how to plan a trip to Las Vegas will depend on your interests, budget and overall time-frame for your visit.

While we highlight what we feel is the best plan for things to do for first-time visitors, our outline can also be used for a romantic retreat or even a Las Vegas party itinerary!

Travel Planning Tip: Get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Vegas with our Travel Planning Printables!

---

 

Best Las Vegas Itinerary

Our 3-Day Itinerary in Las Vegas for First-Timers also includes advice for how to get around, where to stay and what to pack. Alright, let’s get to it!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our 3-Day Vegas Itinerary to plan your Sin City vacation!

 

DAY 1 of Your 3-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

We certainly hope you are well-rested. Let’s kick off your trip with a few iconic Vegas experiences!

 

Swing by the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Located at the south end of The Strip next to the airport, this is one of the most famous signs in the world.

It was designed in 1959 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. If you are arriving by plane and taking Lyft or Uber to your hotel schedule a stop here on your way!

 

Check into Your Vegas Hotel on The Strip

With just three days in Las Vegas, staying on The Strip is absolutely essential. There are so many properties to choose from – and we go into more details on where to stay later in the article.

Whichever one you choose, drop your bags off and hit the ground running!

 

Hit the Las Vegas Casinos

These grand rooms are filled with gambling tables, slot machines and a cacophony of ringing bells and falling coins.

The dimly lit, maze-like spaces can be bewildering, but during your 3 day trip to Vegas, the flashing lights and noisy slots will fade into the background.

 

Best Casino in Vegas for First Timers

Gambling here can be intimidating – but it is a Vegas must-do for first-timers! Choosing the ‘best casino’ is less important that picking the right time and the right games.

The slots are a good place to start. Some places still have penny slot machines, which can literally provide hours of low-risk entertainment.

All casinos have table games – like Blackjack, Poker, Roulette and Craps. These are fun, but can get expensive, especially if you don’t know the rules.

The ideal time to learn how to play is during the day, when the tables are less busy and the minimum bets are lowest.

Vegas Budget Tip: One of the fun things about casinos is that, as long as you are playing, drinks are free! Just remember to tip. 

 

See the Sights on The Strip

Now that you’ve tried your luck at gambling, it’s time to step out onto The Strip – officially known as Las Vegas Boulevard.

The extravagant casino complexes that line the world-famous street are a spectacular sight. This is especially so as the sun starts to set and the neon lights begin to glow.

While the scene in its entirety is astounding, we recommend spending the late afternoon and early evening at these Vegas sights in the center of The Strip.

 

Bellagio Fountain and Conservatory

Without question, the Bellagio Fountain is a must-see on your Las Vegas 3 Day Itinerary.

Bellagio Fountain Shows take place throughout the day. You can find the most current schedule on the official website. 

Next, pop inside to visit the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. As you walk through the lobby, look up to admire the opulent glass ceiling.

 

Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

Visiting the imitation Eiffel Tower that stands across the street from the Bellagio is another one of the top things to do in Vegas for first timers.

Whether you just stand at the base or go up to the Vegas Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck is up to you. If you have time in your 3 Day Vegas Itinerary, take a walk through the French-inspired lobby and casino, too!

 

High Roller Ferris Wheel and Promenade at LINQ

The LINQ Promenade, a shopping, dining and entertainment district, is packed with attractions. 

You can go for a spin on the High Roller – one of the world’s tallest observation wheels – or fly 1,000 feet above the Promenade via zipline.

Alternatively, keep your feet on the ground and simply enjoy the lightshow after dark, which is free!

 

Flamingo Wildlife Habitat 

One of our favorite free things to do on a 3 day trip to Las Vegas is visiting the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel.

It is home not only to a flock of flamingos, but other feathered friends, too…and it is completely free! 

 

Dine Like a Celebrity

With thousands of restaurants, Vegas has gained a reputation as a foodie city in recent years.

In fact, there are more than 50 celebrity chef restaurants in Las Vegas – from Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen to Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen to Giada and Nobu.

The choices are overwhelming, especially if it’s your first trip to Las Vegas. Ultimately, where you decide to dine depends on your tastes and budget – or favorite famous chef.

 

Catch a Las Vegas Show

Shows in Sin City gained popularity in the 1950s…and they have only gotten bigger and better since then.

We feel attending a show is a must on a Las Vegas first trip! Ticket prices vary by performance, but you can usually find several deals online.

Some of my best weekend trips to Vegas were highlighted by a show. Garth Brooks at The Wynn is, hands down, one of the greatest concerts I have ever attended in my life.

An exciting line up has graced the stage at the new love-it-or-hate-it Sphere – but we haven’t made it to one…yet!

Some of the other top Vegas performances to consider are Cirque du Soleil (including Love, One, Ka, O and Mystere), La Reve, Blue Man Group, The Mentalist and David Copperfield.

Impersonator shows – which range from MJ Live to iconic Elvis tributes – are classic entertainment, as well.

Fun Travel Tip: If you are planning a Girls Weekend in Vegas Itinerary, you might want to get tickets to the Thunder Down Under. For guys planning a Vegas Bachelor Party, check out X Burlesque.

---

 

DAY 2 of Your 3-Day Itinerary Las Vegas

Start off with some self-care and then feast, let loose and have some more fun in Sin City!

 

Rejuvenate with a Vegas Spa Treatment

Going to the spa is a fun activity to include on a Vegas Bachelorette Itinerary or even a Las Vegas Couples Getaway!

Treatments range from traditional packages – like massages, facials and pedicures – to unique procedures.

For example, you can get a water Watsu Massage at Bellagio, a reviving Royal Flush IV treatment at MGM Grand or even a Turkish bath experience in the Hammam at The Cosmopolitan.

 

Sample the Fare on a Las Vegas Food Tour

After a relaxing morning, set off mid-day for an absolute feast on this highly rated food tour. It is not only one of the best things to do in Las Vegas for first timers, but for return visitors as well!

Rather than limiting yourself to just one restaurant for lunch, let a guide lead the way to the best tastes on The Strip!

 

Experience a Las Vegas Pool Party

The pool parties here are legendary – and a must on your Las Vegas trip itinerary! Essentially day time clubs, international DJs spin music and bartenders sling colorful cocktails in an absolutely energetic atmosphere.

They are wildest on summer weekends, but there is usually at least one resort hosting a poolside event every day of the week. Choosing which pool party in Vegas to go to will depend on your style.

One of the best we attended was Wet Republic Ultra Pool at the MGM Grand. Other popular picks are Encore Beach Club, Bali inspired Ayu Dayclub, LIV Beach and Marquee Dayclub.

It is important to note that many pool parties charge a cover, enforce a dress code and may have minimum spends. So be sure to check the specifics!

Tip for Travelers: What if you just want to lounge around and take a dip without the daytime debauchery? No stress, most resorts have a dedicated pool where you can relax without the party atmosphere.

 

Enjoy Dinner on The Strip

Now that you are primed for the evening, get changed, re-hydrate and eat something before heading out to the nightclubs.

If you are looking for an elevated Vegas experience (literally and figuratively), dine at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant (just make sure to get your reservations in advance).

For casual Mexican fare, eat at Nacho Daddy, or feast on classic American fast-food at In-and-Out Burger.

 

Dance Away at Vegas Clubs

Vegas nightclubs – or rather mega-clubs – maintain an electric vibe with some of the world’s best DJs and packed dance floors.

Some of the most epic clubs are Tao at The Venetian, OMNIA at Caesars Palace, Hakkasan at MGM Grand and Marquee at The Cosmopolitan.

Most clubs have promotions (which you can find on The Strip, through your hotel or in advance online) that offer VIP status and sometimes free drinks.

Dress codes can be strict – for example, many places will deny entry to anyone wearing backless sandals…so read the rules before you go!

 

Vegas Party Bus

If you are less concerned with which club to party at and don’t want to hassle with transportation and cover charges – opt for Party Bus Package.

On a Girls’ Weekend in Vegas, we joined one that offered VIP entry into three clubs and included onboard drinks. Our bus even had a stripper pole, which was highly entertaining as the night progressed!

If you simply want to bypass the club scene altogether, take the Big Bus Night Tour. The open-air bus passes by the city’s most dazzling nighttime attractions.

 

Luxury Las Vegas Helicopter Experience at Night

Take things up a notch on a helicopter tour of The Strip at night. This epic ride lets you experience the city from a unique vantage point and includes an option for dinner.

---

 

DAY 3 of Your Itinerary for Las Vegas

This is it, the last day of your Las Vegas trip! Time to experience a few more top sights before heading home.

 

Indulge in a Vegas Buffet Brunch

A Sin City tradition, feasting at a buffet during your 3-day trip to Las Vegas is practically a requirement.

Evolving from all-you-can-eat extravaganzas into classy culinary adventures, buffets in Vegas are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Most have meat carving stations, omelet stations, heaps of seafood (including sushi) and delectable dessert tables. In true Vegas style, a few even include bottomless champagne!

Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan, Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace, Bellagio Buffet and The Buffet at Wynn are all top choices! 

If you prefer a brunch that is not a buffet, then try The Henry for their Short Rib Bene or Alexxa’s where they offer bottomless mimosas!

 

More Vegas Sightseeing

After you have stuffed yourself silly, spend the rest of the morning leisurely taking in more of the top attractions in Vegas.

We recommend spending time either on the north or south end of The Strip – but ambitious travelers can likely squeeze in both!

 

South Strip 

Exploring the south end of The Strip is one of our favorite daytime activities in Vegas. Casual and entertaining, the South Strip has a lot to offer! 

The Big Apple Coaster at New York New York is a thrilling ride that drops and twists while reaching speeds of 67 miles per hour. But, trust me on this one, you won’t want to go on this ride after a big meal! 

ARIA’s Fine Art Collection is featured throughout the resort – not inside a stuffy museum. The artwork is free to all visitors – and you can use this helpful brochure to locate and learn more about each piece. 

We wouldn’t necessarily say that the 4-story M&M Store is a must-see in Vegas for first timers, but it is a fun place to visit and pick up personalized souvenirs.

Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay is an exceptional aquarium – and well worth the visit, especially for anyone planning a Vegas family vacation. Buy your tickets in advance!

 

North Strip 

The north end of The Strip also features a few top sights for your Vegas Itinerary. We are sharing a few of our favorites. 

A gondola ride at The Venetian is a perfect addition to a Las Vegas itinerary for couples. The pilot serenades passengers as they float along the Grand Canal. While you’re there, check out Madame Tussauds, too! 

One of the most luxurious hotels on The Strip, we believe The Wynn is an absolutely beautiful property. Explore the lobby gardens, gaze at the extravagant floral decorations and gawk at all the swankiness.

 

Vegas Tours and Classes

In the afternoon, join a tour or class that captures the essence of Vegas. A guided tour introduces you to the engaging history of Sin City, while a class teaches participants industry secrets. 

On the intriguing Fremont Tour, discover Downtown Las Vegas. Learn about its origins, step into the Fremont Street Experience and find out how the culture has evolved over time. 

If you’re planning a Vegas Bachelorette Party, book an afternoon Stripper Pole Class. Honestly, I was a little nervous when we included this on our Girls Weekend in Las Vegas Itinerary – but it turned out to be incredibly entertaining!

 

Explore Fremont Street at Night

While attractions on The Strip are well-known for being ostentatious, Fremont tends to be more laid back…but no less entertaining.

You can take an exhilarating ride on a zip line or swim with the sharks at Golden Nugget. Other top places to visit are the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum.

Historic casinos and a slew of low key bars line the street, enticing you to stay longer than just a couple of hours. It’s the perfect way to end your 3 days in Vegas!

---

 

Las Vegas Day Trips

While our 3 Days in Vegas Trip Planner doesn’t leave any room for excursions, those staying longer – or on a return trip – may want to consider adding these to their itinerary. 

 

Grand Canyon Bus Tour

On this Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Tour, enjoy breakfast and lunch and make stops at some of the top viewpoints. Optional upgrades include the Skywalk and a helicopter ride!

 

Hoover Dam from Vegas

Embark on a Tour of Hoover Dam, one of the most incredible modern-day engineering achievements.

On the way, a knowledgeable guide will share information about the dam’s history. Once there, you can walk across the massive structure.

Plus, this tour makes two extra stops. One at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign and another on the Colorado River at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.

 

Valley of Fire State Park Hiking Tour

Set off on a half day hiking trip in Nevada’s oldest state park. A guide leads the way through beautiful desert landscapes, rock formations and ancient petroglyphs.

 

Red Rock Canyon Scooter Tour

Explore the majestic scenery and phenomenal natural canyons by scooter on a Half-Day Vegas trip to Red Rock Canyon. 

 

Zion Utah National Park 

Not particularly easy to get to on your own, this organized Day Trip to Zion from Las Vegas includes transportation, entry fees, free time to explore and lunch!

---

 

Las Vegas Three-Day Itinerary Travel Tips

Now that you know how to plan a travel itinerary for Vegas, we have a bit more advice to ensure you pull off that perfect trip!

 

Las Vegas Tips For First-Timers

Stay hydrated! With an endless flow of drinks and desert sunshine, it’s easy to become dehydrated. That can put a real damper on your trip, not to mention, give you a terrible hangover!

Stay together! Everything in Vegas is huge – the casinos, the clubs and the crowds. If you are planning a First-Time Vegas Itinerary with friends or family, have a meeting place in case you get separated or lose your phone.

Watch your drinks! Remember to keep an eye on your beverages while at pool parties, dance clubs and even in the casinos.

Our last tip for planning a First-Time Las Vegas Itinerary is to create a budget. It is very easy to get swept up in spending money here.

Gambling, partying and sightseeing can all be big expenditures. However, with careful consideration (and some restraint), it is possible to plan a trip that will fit nearly every budget!

 

How To Get Around Vegas

We love to discover cities on foot…but that is problematic in Las Vegas. The colossal casinos are further apart than they appear.

Plus, any time outside of winter – it is very, very hot. Thankfully, there are a few different options to avoid these.

The Monorail is a convenient way to get up and down The Strip. The Deuce and SDX are the cheap local buses which cover The Strip and beyond. Ride-shares are good, too – but use designated pick up and drop off points.

An entertaining way to combine transport and sightseeing is with the Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Vegas. The open-air, double-decker has two routes and tickets are available for 24 or 48 hours.

 

Where To Stay in Las Vegas

With 3 nights in Vegas, we feel it is imperative to stay in a central location. Over the years, we have stayed in many different hotels in Las Vegas, and a few that no longer exist!

We personally like MGM Grand, which offers reasonable rates, consistently updated rooms and easy access to the Monorail.

Start your search for Great Vegas Resorts using our Tips for Booking Top Hotels!

 

What To Pack for Vegas

Deciding what to bring for your 3-day Vegas getaway can be a challenge. Whether you’re going to clubs or taking tours, you may be tempted to pack everything…just in case!

 

Versatile Shoes

If you plan on leaving your property at all, we highly recommend packing comfortable travel shoes.

Actually, even if you are staying within one complex, you will likely be doing a lot of walking – the casinos are just that massive.

For daytime, I prefer wearing lightweight trainers, like these from New Balance. Alternatively, Foldable Flats are easy to switch out with heels, if you carry them in your purse!

 

Sun Protection

The sun in southern Nevada is intense! Wearing sunscreen at the pool and while touring the city is essential; you don’t want a sunburn to ruin your Vegas vacation.

To keep the sun off your face, we also recommend wearing a stylish travel hat and good sunglasses. 

 

Travel Camera

If your Las Vegas Itinerary planner includes any tours, you will definitely want an actual camera. We suggest the Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.

It is easy to use, takes phenomenal photos and comes bundled with a ton of fun accessories; making it an excellent budget camera.

 

Day Pack

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want to carry a stylish day bag to tote all your everyday items in.

We prefer these small backpacks, but there a loads of styles to choose from. We share our top picks in our reviews on the Best Day Bags!

 

Start planning your US Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

 

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.