Explore family-friendly shows, tasty tours, and unexpected treasures—without spending a dime!
Las Vegas is often seen as a playground for high rollers, lavish spenders, and big-ticket entertainment. But here’s a little secret locals and savvy travelers know well: you don’t need to drop hundreds of dollars to have a great time in Vegas. In fact, some of the city’s most unique experiences are completely free—and just waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re planning a trip with your family, traveling solo, or enjoying a romantic getaway, there are plenty of no-cost gems to explore. From dazzling shows to chocolate samples, Vegas has a little something for everyone that won’t cost a thing (well, unless you can’t resist the gift shops).
Fall of Atlantis Show at Caesars Palace: Drama, Lights, and Fish Tanks
One of the most visually exciting free shows in town is the Fall of Atlantis Show at Caesars Palace Forum Shops. This immersive water, light, and fire show brings the ancient gods to life through animatronic characters, dramatic narration, and special effects. The storytelling is surprisingly fun, especially for kids, and it makes for a great midday break while shopping.
Even cooler? The show takes place above a saltwater aquarium, giving it a magical underwater ambiance. You can watch divers feed the fish daily at 1:15 and 5:15 PM, and take a free behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium at 3:15 PM. It’s a perfect blend of entertainment and education.
Free Movie Saturdays at the Cambridge Community Center
Looking for a relaxed afternoon with the kids? Every Saturday at 1:00 PM, the Cambridge Community Center hosts a free movie screening with popcorn included. While it’s a modest setup, it’s a lovely option for budget-conscious families or travelers who just want a little downtime.
Movies change weekly, so it’s best to check the center’s notice board on Friday to see what’s playing. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult—but hey, who doesn’t love a free movie?
Hula Vibes and Island Fun at the Hawaiian Marketplace
No need to book a trip to Maui—just swing by the Hawaiian Marketplace on the Strip for an all-day lineup of live island performances. From 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM daily, you can watch everything from hula dancers and fire twirlers to lei makers and musicians.
It’s one of the most vibrant free events in town, and the tropical energy makes you feel like you’ve taken a mini-vacation within your vacation. Bonus: animatronic tropical birds scattered throughout the venue add a playful touch that the little ones will love.
Big Elvis at Barbary Coast Casino: A Tribute Worth Watching
For Elvis fans—or just fans of great voices—don’t miss Pete Vallee’s Big Elvis show at the Barbary Coast Casino (now part of The Cromwell). Performing Monday through Thursday at 3:00 and 5:00 PM, Pete belts out all the classics in true King fashion, complete with heartfelt ballads and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll.
It’s a free show, but it draws a loyal crowd, so get there a little early if you want a good seat. The performance is as much about nostalgia as it is about music, and you’ll find yourself singing along before you know it.
M&M’s World: Sweet, Colorful, and Completely Free to Explore
Who says chocolate can’t be an attraction? At M&M’s World Las Vegas, you’ll discover four floors packed with merchandise, colorful photo ops, interactive displays, and even a free 3D movie starring Red and Yellow.
Open Sunday–Thursday from 9 AM to 11 PM and Friday–Saturday until midnight, it’s not just for kids—grown-ups will find themselves drawn to the wall-to-wall candy displays and limited-edition Vegas-themed treats. While it’s technically free to enter, resisting the adorable merch might be the hardest part.
Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory & Botanical Cactus Garden
Speaking of chocolate, a short drive off the Strip will take you to Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory, where you can take a free self-guided tour to see how the confections are made—and yes, score a free sample at the end.
Right next door is their Botanical Cactus Garden, which showcases one of the largest collections of desert plants in the Southwest. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, the garden is peaceful, beautifully maintained, and makes for a lovely stroll.
And don’t miss the Living Machine—an eco-friendly wastewater treatment system that recycles 32,000 gallons of water a day. It’s a cool sustainability feature that adds a layer of education to your sweet visit.
The Marjorie Barrick Museum: A Hidden Cultural Gem
For something a bit more educational, head to the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art and Anthropology on the UNLV campus. This museum is completely free and open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:45 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on ancient Mexico, Western history, and contemporary art. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the high-energy Strip and a wonderful spot for anyone interested in culture and history. Just keep in mind, the museum is closed on state and federal holidays.
Freebies That Keep Getting Better
One of the best things about Las Vegas is that it’s constantly evolving, and the list of free entertainment options just keeps growing. Whether you’re looking for educational museums, sweet treats, live performances, or fun characters for the kids, you’ll find more than enough to fill your days without ever pulling out your wallet.
So next time you plan a Vegas trip, remember—you don’t need a big bankroll to have a big-time experience. All it takes is a curious spirit, a comfy pair of shoes, and a list like this one to make your stay unforgettable.
