3 days in Las Vegas itinerary
Three-day balanced Las Vegas itinerary mixing local favorites, Strip highlights, neighborhood exploring, a Red Rock morning outdoors, relaxed breaks, and well-paced meals. Designed for realistic transit times and variety (museums, hikes, bars, and local restaurants).
Highlights
- The Neon Museum
- Las Vegas Arts District & Esther's Kitchen
- Bellagio Conservatory & Fountains
- High Roller at The LINQ
- Lotus of Siam (local favorite)
- Red Rock Canyon scenic loop
Itinerary
Day 1
Downtown & Arts District day: museums, local eats, galleries and relaxed evening drinks.
Breakfast at Eat. (local-lauded diner)
Casual breakfast to fuel the morning; seasonal, scratch-made offerings.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to avoid the later downtown rush.
- Try one of their savory dishes if you prefer a hearty start.
- Check cash vs card options — they accept cards but lines move faster for small orders.
Visit The Neon Museum (outdoor guided/walkable exhibits)
Explore restored neon signs and learn the history of Vegas signage.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sun protection; much of the exhibit is outdoors.
- Book an entry time if you prefer a guided walk.
- Bring a camera; early morning light is good for photos.
Lunch at Carson Kitchen (modern American, local favorite)
Laid-back, inventive small-plate lunch in the heart of downtown.
Tips from local experts:
- Share small plates to sample more flavors.
- Reservations help at peak lunch times.
- They have a good cocktail list if you want a mid-day treat.
Stroll Downtown Container Park (shops, public art)
Short walk through this open-air retail + food pod built from shipping containers.
Tips from local experts:
- Good spot for quick boutique shopping and a relaxed pace.
- Check the courtyard for live music or family-friendly features.
- Outdoor seating areas make this a nice brief pause after lunch.
Explore The Mob Museum
Interactive exhibits on organized crime and law enforcement history in America.
Tips from local experts:
- Allocate time for the upstairs exhibits and the law enforcement gallery.
- Audio guides add context if you prefer self-guided depth.
- Artifacts and immersive displays can be crowded—go early if you prefer quieter spaces.
Coffee break at Vesta Coffee Roasters
Short caffeine recharge at a neighborhood micro-roaster.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a pour-over for a clean tasting cup.
- Outdoor seating if you want a short people-watching pause.
- If in a hurry, mobile orders can speed pickup times.
Short transfer to the Arts District
Drive or rideshare to the Las Vegas Arts District for an afternoon of galleries and shops.
Tips from local experts:
- A quick 10–20 minute drive depending on traffic; rideshare recommended for speed.
- Ask the driver to drop you on Main Street to start exploring.
- Street parking is available but fills quickly on weekends.
Explore the Arts District (galleries, boutiques)
Wander Main Street galleries, vintage shops and indie boutiques at an easy pace.
Tips from local experts:
- Visit small galleries; many rotate local artist exhibits frequently.
- If it's the first Friday of the month, there may be an art walk with extended hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes for browsing several blocks of shops.
Dinner at Esther's Kitchen (popular neighborhood Italian)
Seasonal Italian plates and handmade pastas from a respected local kitchen.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations strongly recommended; the wait can be long for walk-ins.
- Try a pasta and share a vegetable side for variety.
- They have a well-curated wine list — ask for pairing suggestions.
Nightcap at Atomic Liquors (historic local bar)
End the night at Las Vegas' oldest freestanding bar with craft cocktails.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a signature cocktail and enjoy the retro decor.
- Bar seating fills up — arrive earlier for a seat at the counter.
- Check hours; some nights feature guest bartenders or events.
Day 2
Strip highlights and relaxed afternoon: Conservatory, High Roller, pool break, dinner at a celebrated Thai spot, evening Strip walk.
Breakfast at The Henry (Cosmopolitan)
Hearty breakfast with classic and elevated options on the Strip.
Tips from local experts:
- Good for a filling meal before a day of walking.
- If you want a window seat, ask when you arrive.
- They serve all-day breakfast items as well.
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Free, rotating floral and horticultural displays in an ornate indoor conservatory.
Tips from local experts:
- Displays change seasonally; quick visit but visually rich.
- Combine with a stroll around the Bellagio lobby area.
- Mornings are usually less crowded than afternoons.
See the Fountains of Bellagio (short outdoor show walk)
Catch a fountain performance — iconic and a quick, memorable stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Check the schedule for fountain show times; shows run frequently.
- Stand near the front for the best views and photos.
- Evenings have different music and lighting for variety.
Lunch at Mon Ami Gabi (views of the fountains)
Classic French bistro with outdoor seating facing the Bellagio fountains.
Tips from local experts:
- Request patio seating for fountain views (available if not fully booked).
- Perfect for a relaxed, mid-day meal.
- Reservations recommended to secure a preferred seating time.
High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ
360-degree views of the Strip from a large observation wheel; good daytime perspectives.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a standard cabin or a Happy Half Hour cabin if you want drinks during the ride.
- Each rotation is slow and smooth — relax and enjoy the skyline.
- Ticketing lines can move slowly; pre-book to skip the main queue.
Afternoon break / pool or hotel downtime
Relax at a hotel pool or rest in your room to recharge for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- If not staying on the Strip, many hotels offer day passes for pools (seasonal).
- Hydrate and rest your feet before evening activities.
- Sunscreen if you plan to use the pool.
Transfer to Lotus of Siam (drive north to a Thai local favorite)
Short rideshare or taxi to Lotus of Siam, widely-regarded for Northern Thai cuisine.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve ahead; this spot often books up.
- Allow time for traffic depending on time of day.
- Ask the driver to wait if you have a reservation time.
Dinner at Lotus of Siam (highly recommended Thai)
Well-known for authentic Northern Thai dishes and rich flavors — a local favorite off the Strip.
Tips from local experts:
- Try house specialties like the crispy duck or Nam Kao Tod.
- Make a reservation well in advance for dinner hours.
- Portion sizes are generous; sharing is recommended.
Evening walk along the Las Vegas Strip
Leisurely stroll to enjoy neon, street performers, and hotel atriums at night.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes; the Strip is best experienced on foot after dark.
- Keep water handy; hydration is important even at night.
- A few hotel lobbies and free attractions are great for short stops along the way.
Day 3
Outdoor morning at Red Rock Canyon, then a relaxed local afternoon and a standout local dinner to finish.
Transfer to Red Rock Canyon (scenic drive)
Drive west to Red Rock Canyon for scenic loop and short hikes.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes.
- Park entrance has a fee; check current National Park Service information.
- Start early to avoid midday heat and crowds.
Red Rock Canyon scenic drive and short hike (Calico Tanks or similar)
Drive the scenic loop and take a popular short hike for views over the valley.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a hike appropriate for your fitness level; Calico Tanks is a popular ~2.5 mile out-and-back with views.
- Carry snacks and water; cellphone service can be spotty on the loop.
- Allow time for stops at overlooks and photos.
Transfer back toward town / Summerlin
Return drive to town area for lunch and afternoon activities.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect roughly 30–45 minutes depending on traffic and exact drop-off point.
- Rest briefly upon arrival and rehydrate.
- A restroom stop en route may be useful after the hike.
Lunch at Honey Salt (seasonal, farm-driven in Summerlin)
Relaxed neighborhood spot focusing on local ingredients — ideal after a morning outdoors.
Tips from local experts:
- Outdoor patio is pleasant on fair-weather days.
- Portions are generous; sharing is easy if you want to sample several dishes.
- Reservations recommended on weekends.
Transfer to Springs Preserve (short drive)
Head to Springs Preserve for gardens, exhibits, and a calmer afternoon attraction.
Tips from local experts:
- Springs Preserve offers shaded trails and museum exhibits—good for a relaxed afternoon.
- Check exhibit hours in advance.
- There are on-site restrooms and a cafe if you need refreshments.
Explore Springs Preserve (gardens and cultural exhibits)
Stroll botanical gardens, visit small museums, and learn about the region's ecology and history.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time for the gardens and any rotating indoor exhibits.
- This is a calm, family-friendly site if you want a low-key alternative to casinos.
- Buy tickets at the entrance or online to save time.
Afternoon coffee break at Mothership Coffee Roasters
Recharge with expertly roasted coffee and a light snack.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a single-origin espresso or a seasonal pour-over.
- Good spot to plan the evening and check ride availability.
- Popular with locals; seating can be limited during afternoon rush.
Dinner at Raku (renowned Japanese robata and omakase-style options)
A late-afternoon/evening reservation-only hotspot known for authentic grilled dishes; excellent final-night meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Highly recommended to reserve well in advance; seating fills quickly.
- Share a few dishes and try the charcoal-grilled items for a true Raku experience.
- Cash is accepted; check current payment options before you go.
Nightcap at Velveteen Rabbit (craft cocktail lounge)
Finish with inventive cocktails in a cozy, local craft-cocktail bar in the Arts District.
Tips from local experts:
- Check for reservation or call-ahead policies for larger groups.
- Menu changes seasonally; ask the bartender for recommendations.
- Great spot for a relaxed final evening with a local vibe.
