First Timers 4 Days In Las Vegas Travel Guide
Last Updated on November 6, 2024 by Erin Donahue
While Las Vegas is known for its non-stop entertainment and energetic nightlife scene, the city also has plenty of options for those looking to relax and take things at a more leisurely pace. I love visiting Vegas! After my second home, Taiwan, Vegas is my most frequently visited destination. I’ve been going back almost every other year since 2015.
Besides partying, there’s so much to do on the strip, and off of it. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a spa treatment, enjoy a delicious meal, or take in a show, if you’re planning a trip to Sin City and only have four days to spare, there’s something for everyone to experience the best that Las Vegas has to offer.
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Where To Stay In Las Vegas?
The Strip is the main tourist area in Las Vegas and is home to many of the city’s most famous hotels and casinos. Staying on the Strip will put you within walking distance of many of the top attractions. There are accommodations at every price point, and the time of year affects the rates as well. Plan early and track prices if you want to nab some good deals!
Luxury Hotel: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Whenever I visit Las Vegas, I typically stay at the luxury hotel, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, aka Cosmo. It’s in the heart of the strip and has the best panoramic skyline views of Vegas.
Having a room with a private terrace is a must in order to watch the iconic Bellagio fountain show from above.
Budget Hotel: Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally’s)
While I usually stay at Cosmo, on my most recent trip I stayed at Horseshoe, a budget Caesars hotel instead. That’ll probably be the first and last time I do that!
They had self-check-in kiosks which had a long line, and apparently, May is moth season so my first room had moths and grasshoppers everywhere. I had to change rooms three times because the second room smelled like smoke. There was a wonderful attendant who was manning the kiosks, Gloria, who helped us each time, but I go to Vegas to splurge so never stay at a budget hotel there again.
What To Do In Las Vegas
Watch A Show
Las Vegas is known for its incredible live entertainment, and there are an insane amount of options to choose from. Some options include one of the many Cirque du Soleil shows, watching a residency performance by a top musician, or watching a comedy or even a magician act. The choices are endless!
Treat Yourself To A Spa
Las Vegas is home to some luxurious spas, and there’s no better way to relax and unwind than by indulging in a massage or other spa treatment. Many of the top hotels have their own spas, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Explore The City’s Dining Scene
If you’re a foodie, Las Vegas is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. From fine dining experiences to more casual eateries, there’s something for every taste and budget. Obviously, on the strip, it’s going to be more expensive compared to off the strip.
It’s recommended to reserve your spot at any fancy restaurant, but I actually was able to walk into Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen and get sat in 10 minutes.
A must-do while you’re in Vegas, is eating at the different buffets. What started back in the 1940’s to feed hungry gamblers, has since become a novelty-tasting experience. Prepare your stomach for the feast because prices range from $40-$60 per person, and you will most likely become full right away since it’s all you can eat.
The Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas
On my most recent trip, I finally got to try out the Buffet at the Wynn Hotel. The interior is so whimsical. They have 16 all-food stations and was the first Vegas buffet to reopen after Nevada ordered nonessential businesses to close during COVID-19.
The savory food looks artisanal and the quality is pretty good. What really stands out for them is their dessert selection, it’s actually kind of overwhelming. They have cakes, tarts, cobblers, ice cream, and even a crepe-making station! It’s heaven for anyone that’s a sweet tooth like me.
Before you leave the premises, don’t forget to talk a stroll around the lobby. The flowers and decorations of the conservatory are on brand with the whimsical vibes of the buffet.
Bacchanal Buffet (Caesars Palace)
The other buffet you might want to try, especially if it’s your first time is the popular Bachannal buffet in Caesar’s palace.
During the shutdown, they underwent a $2.4 million renovation so now it’s like having all-you-can-eat access at 9 high-end restaurants.
The Party Scene In Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its wild pool parties, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular pool parties in the city include Encore Beach Club at the Wynn, Wet Republic at the MGM Grand, and Marquee at Cosmo.
Las Vegas is also home to some of the best nightclubs, like Hakkasan, and there’s no shortage of options to choose from. From rooftop clubs with stunning views of the city to intimate lounge bars, there’s something for every taste and budget.
If you want to gain access to pool parties or clubs without paying for a ticket, contact a promoter via Instagram or use the app, Discotech, a virtual promoter in order to get added to the club’s list.
Try Your Luck At The Casinos
While gambling is not for everyone, it’s hard to visit Las Vegas and not at least try your hand at a few games. Whether you prefer table games like blackjack and poker or slot machines, there are plenty of options to choose from!
Free Activities in Las Vegas
Watch The Iconic Bellagio Fountains
Watching the fountains is a nice free activity to do and they go off every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day.
Check Out Bellagio Conservatory
Besides the fountains, Bellagio is also famous for its Conservatory. Each season, the horticulture and engineering teams of the hotel transform the Conservatory into a showcase of inspiring sights, sounds, scents, and colors to go with the seasons.
Take A Day Trip
There is plenty to do in Las Vegas itself, but there are also many interesting day trips to take from the city that are more relaxing and leisurely in nature. Some options include visiting the Hoover Dam, touring the Grand Canyon, or taking a drive through the stunning Red Rock Canyon.
I’ve been going to Las Vegas for almost ten years, mainly for the EDM festival, EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival). Watch the travel guide on how I spend my time in Sin City.
As you can see, there’s a surplus of what you can do with 4 days in Las Vegas. By following this travel guide, you can make the most of your 4 days in Las Vegas and have an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re looking for non-stop entertainment, fine dining, or the chance to try your luck at the casinos, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city
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What an amazing 4-day travel guide for Las Vegas! I love how you’ve covered both the classic Vegas experiences and some more unique activities that showcase the city’s hidden gems. From the energy of the Strip to the serenity of Red Rock Canyon, you’ve really captured the diversity of things to do here.
As a Las Vegas local, I’d also recommend checking out our beautiful golf courses—some of the best in the country—offering scenic views of the desert landscape. And for those looking for more culture, the Downtown Arts District is a must-see, with its vibrant arts scene and cool shops.
Thanks for sharing such a well-rounded guide! It’s the perfect resource for anyone wanting to explore all the sides of Las Vegas during their visit.