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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.
Local tips:
- 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.