Everyone knows the Las Vegas Strip is synonymous with dazzling lights, high-roller glamour, and spectacular shows. But venture a little further, and you’ll discover Fremont Street, the vibrant heart of downtown Vegas. Fremont Street offers its own unique brand of excitement, with a vintage Vegas vibe, a more laid-back atmosphere, and experiences that are often friendlier to your wallet.
Forget the strict dress codes; Fremont Street is all about embracing the fun and letting loose. Ready to explore? Keep reading to uncover all the amazing things to do on Fremont Street and in the surrounding downtown area!
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Did you know Fremont Street was the original Las Vegas Strip? That’s right! Downtown Vegas, specifically Fremont Street, is where it all began. It’s home to some of the city’s first hotels, including the iconic Golden Nugget, which opened its doors in 1946 and still stands as a Fremont Street landmark today.
At the heart of Fremont Street is the Fremont Street Experience (FSE). This pedestrian mall spans five blocks of Fremont Street and is covered by a breathtaking canopy – the Viva Vision screen, the world’s largest video screen. Underneath this dazzling ceiling, you’ll find stages pulsating with live entertainment, street performers captivating crowds, and an atmosphere of non-stop excitement.
While the Fremont Street Experience is the main attraction, Fremont Street extends beyond these five blocks, offering even more to explore in downtown Vegas. Venture beyond the canopy and you’ll find a slightly less flashy but equally engaging part of downtown, brimming with unique activities and hidden gems. Let’s dive into our favorite things to do near Fremont Street!
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17. Immerse Yourself in the Fremont Street Vibe and Watch Street Performers
The Fremont Street Experience is a constant spectacle, and a major part of its charm is the vibrant array of street performers. As you stroll through the five-block pedestrian mall, you’ll encounter musicians, magicians, dancers, living statues, and all sorts of unique artists entertaining the lively crowds. Fremont Street is known for its energetic and bustling atmosphere, particularly in the evenings and during the warmer months.
Adding to the dynamic energy, stages are set up throughout the Fremont Street Experience, hosting live bands and DJs year-round. Simply wandering along Fremont Street, soaking in the sights and sounds, and enjoying the impromptu performances is a fantastic Fremont Street activity in itself!
Address: E Fremont St, Las Vegas
16. Grab a Budget-Friendly Pizza Slice and Beer Combo at Evel Pie
Just a short walk from the main Fremont Street action, you’ll find Evel Pie, a pizza joint dedicated to the daredevil spirit of Evel Knievel. This local hotspot is famous for serving up generous pizza slices and whole pies. While slices are already reasonably priced between $4 and $6, the real deal is their combo offer: a slice of classic cheese pizza paired with their selected draught beer for just $7! In Vegas, where dining costs can quickly escalate, this is a fantastic and affordable meal and drink option.
Beyond the price, the slices at Evel Pie are huge, ensuring you get great value for your money. While the $7 deal isn’t always available, keep an eye out for signs advertising it outside the restaurant. And Evel Pie is just the beginning! Downtown Vegas is a treasure trove of great eats. To discover more culinary gems, check out our guide to the best downtown restaurants: Best Restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas This Year.
Address: 508 E Fremont St, Las Vegas
15. Delve into the Stories of Old Vegas Legends
Las Vegas boasts a captivating and often wild history, filled with characters like bootleggers, notorious crime figures, and mob bosses, alongside glamorous celebrities and a general atmosphere of good times and rule-breaking. What better way to uncover the unique history of Vegas than by joining a fascinating walking tour of downtown Las Vegas? There aren’t many experiences that can bring the past to life quite like a guided tour.
We highly recommend booking a spot on a day or night tour of Fremont Street and the surrounding downtown area, perhaps even including Container Park! These tours reveal relics from Vegas’s past, explain the historical significance of places like the Plaza Hotel, and point out where Rat Pack members like Dean Martin used to hang out. A downtown Vegas walking tour is truly an unmissable experience.
Explore Downtown Vegas History on a Walking Tour
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14. Try Your Luck at $1 Blackjack at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino
The Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is a favorite for many reasons. First off, it’s home to the Citrus Grand Pool Deck, a sprawling 35,000-square-foot pool area that was recognized as the best pool in downtown Vegas in 2020! Guests also appreciate the stylish rooms and the hotel’s overall cool vibe. However, for gamblers, the biggest draw might be their blackjack tables with incredibly low $1 minimums!
In a city where typical minimums at Strip hotels can range from $15 to $20, finding a $1 blackjack table is a serious bargain. While you might only find one or two $1 tables open during the earlier hours of the day, the number of available tables increases as the day progresses into evening and nighttime.
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13. Join the Electric Nightly Block Party with Free Live Music
Did you know that Fremont Street hosts FREE live music almost every single night? It’s true! Bands and DJs covering a wide range of musical genres take to the stages, and the street transforms into a giant, open-air dance floor. Fremont Street is practically a massive, free-for-all block party, especially during the vibrant summer months!
The majority of bands playing on Fremont Street are talented local cover bands. However, during the summer season and around major holidays, Fremont Street occasionally attracts some well-known names to its outdoor stage – always for free. Recent performers have included Three Doors Down, Walker Hayes, and Plain White T’s.
Check out the Fremont Street events schedule to see the lineup during your visit!
Address: E Fremont St, Las Vegas
12. Unleash Your Inner Star at Cat’s Meow Karaoke Bar
If you’re ready to belt out your favorite tunes, head to Cat’s Meow, a lively karaoke bar that originated in New Orleans and has brought its party atmosphere to Vegas. Cat’s Meow is a spacious venue with an extensive karaoke song selection. The best part? Karaoke is on the menu every night of the week! The crowd is always high-energy, supportive, and ready to cheer on every singer, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer.
Whether you want to take center stage and sing your heart out or simply enjoy a fun night out with friends, Cat’s Meow is the place to be. There’s typically an admission fee, ranging from $5 to $20. However, keep an eye out for promoters outside the bar and along Fremont Street – they often hand out coupons for discounted entry.
Address: 450 E Fremont St UNIT 201, Las Vegas
11. Experience a Thrilling Shark Tank Water Slide at The Golden Nugget
We mentioned earlier that the Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino has been a Fremont Street icon since the 1940s. But one of its most unique and exhilarating features is its pool complex. The Golden Nugget boasts “The Tank,” a stunning pool area featuring a waterslide that plunges right through a shark tank aquarium!
If you’re visiting Fremont Street with kids who can handle the lively Vegas atmosphere, the Golden Nugget is an excellent family-friendly hotel choice, largely thanks to this incredible waterslide. The pool area also includes an adults-only section, offering something for everyone.
Another perk of staying at the Golden Nugget? Complimentary bottled water in your room! This is a definite bonus, especially if you’re visiting during the hot Vegas summer months. To explore more fantastic hotel options in downtown Vegas, see our guide to favorite hotels to stay at in downtown Vegas!
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10. Master Casino Games with Expert Gambling Lessons
Heading to Vegas casinos can be exciting, but without some know-how, it’s easy to lose money quickly. Unless you’re a seasoned gambler, the odds are often stacked against you. So, why not improve your chances and learn to gamble smarter?
At the historic Plaza Hotel, you can take gambling lessons from experienced pros who know the ins and outs of Vegas casinos. Learn the strategies and rules of popular games like blackjack, craps, and roulette before you risk your own money. Investing in a little education could significantly improve your next Vegas gambling experience.
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9. Savor Rooftop Views and Hidden Speakeasy Vibes at Commonwealth
Commonwealth is not just one of our top-rated Vegas clubs; it’s a multi-level experience. It features a trendy main lounge and an energetic rooftop bar with DJs spinning electronic dance music. However, the real hidden gem is The Laundry Room, a clandestine speakeasy tucked away inside Commonwealth. попасть туда requires advance reservations, so make sure to plan ahead if you want to experience this exclusive spot.
Inside The Laundry Room, you’ll find a sophisticated atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails. Forget about standard drink orders; here, you tell the mixologist your preferred flavor profile, and they’ll create a personalized drink just for you.
Even without a speakeasy reservation, Commonwealth is a great spot to enjoy. Dance to EDM beats on the rooftop, or relax in the stylish downstairs bar. Don’t miss their creative cocktail menu – the Willy Wonka’s Hangover is a must-try!
Address: 525 E Fremont St, Las Vegas
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8. Indulge in a Tomahawk Steak Feast at Oscar’s Steakhouse
Prepare for a serious meat-lover’s experience at Oscar’s Steakhouse, located inside the Plaza Hotel and Casino. Named after former Las Vegas mayor Oscar Goodman, Oscar’s is renowned for its exceptional food and outstanding service. While there’s no strict dress code, many diners choose to dress up a bit for the occasion, adding to the sophisticated ambiance.
Many tables offer fantastic views overlooking the lively Fremont Street below, creating a memorable dining setting. Guests often comment that stepping into Oscar’s feels like stepping back into the glamorous era of Old Vegas. Oscar’s is a popular dining destination, so reservations are highly recommended, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.
What to order? The Tomahawk steak and bone-in ribeye are legendary. They also offer an excellent pork chop and lamb chops, so you really can’t go wrong with any of their meat dishes.
Address: 1 S Main St, Las Vegas
7. Witness the Praying Mantis Fire Show at Container Park
Yes, you read that right! A 44-foot-tall praying mantis statue that breathes fire! And it’s every bit as cool as it sounds. Located in front of Downtown Container Park, this massive steel mantis is a truly unique Vegas spectacle. After dark, it comes to life, “dancing” to music and shooting flames from its antennae in sync with the beat.
Each night at dusk, before the mantis begins its first show, drummers gather to perform a rhythmic “awakening” ceremony. This is definitely a one-of-a-kind Vegas experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Visitors of all ages are welcome to watch the Mantis show and dance along to the music. Be sure to capture videos to share the spectacle with friends back home!
Container Park itself is a trendy outdoor boutique shopping and dining destination, perfect for exploring before or after you witness the fire-breathing mantis.
Address: 707 E Fremont St, Las Vegas
Planning more of your Vegas trip? Check out the best outdoor adventure activities, the finest luxury hotels in Vegas, and more amazing things to do around Vegas!
6. Step Back in Time at the Neon Museum’s Sign Graveyard
Located about a 20-minute walk from the Fremont Street Experience, the Neon Museum is our top pick for outdoor museums and a must-see for anyone interested in Vegas history and design. The museum, often called a “neon graveyard,” is filled with iconic vintage Vegas signs rescued from hotels, casinos, and businesses across the city. To explore the museum, you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance, as self-guided tours are not permitted. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
The Neon Museum offers both daytime and nighttime tours. While the museum is family-friendly, they recommend daytime tours for children aged 10 and older, and nighttime tours are best suited for kids 12 and up. The nighttime tours are particularly magical, as the vintage neon signs are illuminated, creating a spectacular visual experience.
Don’t miss their “Brilliant!” show, a 20-minute animated light and music experience that brings some of the vintage signs back to life. Separate tickets are required for the “Brilliant!” show and museum tours. Museum admission ranges from $20 to $30 per person.
Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas
5. Sip Classic Cocktails and Discover Hidden Bars with a Local
You could spend your evening wandering around Brewery Row and trying to stumble upon cool speakeasies and bars, or you could elevate your experience by booking a guided speakeasy and bar-hopping tour in downtown Vegas. Choosing a guided tour ensures you don’t miss the best hidden spots and adds fascinating historical context to your drinks.
On these tours, you’ll be led to secret speakeasies and learn about the drinks favored by legendary figures like Al Capone. You might sample El Cortez’s famous beer or try signature cocktails from the city’s longest-running craft cocktail bar. If you prefer to explore the Arts District’s bar scene, there are tours for that too!
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4. Swim, Relax, and Catch Sports Action at Stadium Swim
Stadium Swim, located at Circa Resort & Casino, is more than just a pool; it’s an entertainment destination. You don’t have to be a sports fanatic or a hotel guest to enjoy this adults-only pool experience! The centerpiece is a massive 40-foot by 143-foot screen that broadcasts live sports games. During breaks, a DJ takes over, playing Top 40 hits while the crowd dances in the pool and enjoys drinks from the bar. Stadium Swim is a magnet for both sports enthusiasts and pool partygoers.
Non-hotel guests can access Stadium Swim for a fee, which starts at $20 and can increase depending on the season and time of day. Keep in mind that Circa Resort & Casino, including Stadium Swim, is adults-only, meaning you must be 21 or older to enter. Be prepared to show your ID upon entry.
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3. Discover the Unique Shops and Eateries of Downtown Container Park
Container Park is a unique open-air shopping and entertainment destination covering over an acre in downtown Las Vegas. What makes it truly special is its construction – all the shops, restaurants, and bars are housed in repurposed shipping containers! Inside Container Park, you’ll find a diverse mix of boutiques, eateries, and bars, making it a popular spot for shopping and dining. It’s also family-friendly, featuring a playground and treehouse where kids can play during the daytime.
The central lawn area hosts frequent events, including movie nights, country dance lessons, and yoga sessions. They also often have kid-focused entertainment, like balloon artists and clowns. Event prices vary.
Check out the Container Park event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. While Container Park is welcoming to children during the day, kids are not permitted after 9 pm. Given Fremont Street’s evolving atmosphere in the evening, this age restriction helps maintain a comfortable environment for all visitors. Container Park is a must-visit spot for unique shopping, dining, and family fun.
Address: 707 E Fremont St, Las Vegas
2. Be Amazed by the Viva Vision Light Shows
The Viva Vision light show is something you truly have to witness firsthand to fully appreciate its scale and spectacle! Every night, starting at 6 pm and running until 2 am, a mind-blowing light and sound show takes over the Fremont Street Experience’s massive canopy screen – the world’s largest video screen. Stunning visuals, synchronized to popular music by artists like The Killers and Shakira, captivate audiences of locals and tourists alike. Shows begin at the top of each hour, all night long.
You don’t need tickets or special arrangements to see the Viva Vision light show. Simply head to the Fremont Street Experience anytime after 6 pm, wait for the top of the hour, and look up! Prepare to be amazed by the immersive visual and auditory experience. Check out the light show schedule here.
Address:E Fremont St, Las Vegas
1. Soar Above Fremont Street on the SlotZilla Zipline
SlotZilla is not just a zipline; it’s a Vegas icon. Built to resemble a colossal slot machine, standing 11 stories tall, SlotZilla is one of the most uniquely “Vegas” attractions imaginable. And yes, you can zipline right out of it! Hanging 77 feet above the ground, the SlotZilla Zipline sends thrill-seekers soaring over Fremont Street, directly beneath the entire Viva Vision video screen canopy! This adrenaline-pumping activity costs between $39 and $59.
SlotZilla offers two zipline experiences. The classic “Superman-style” zipline launches you 11 stories high and sends you flying for five blocks, covering the entire Fremont Street Experience. Alternatively, the “Zip-Zilla” option is a shorter ride, launching from seven stories high and running for two blocks. No matter which height you choose, SlotZilla is undeniably an epic and unforgettable way to experience Fremont Street, making it our top recommendation for things to do near Fremont Street!
Address: 425 E Fremont St #160, Las Vegas
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