You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have the time of your life in Las Vegas. Let’s be honest, Vegas can be expensive. Between the shows, the dining, and the gaming, your wallet needs a break! As local insiders who live and breathe the Las Vegas Strip, we know where to find the magic that doesn't cost a dime.

The key to maximizing your budget is knowing where to look, when to go, and how to access those spectacular moments that many tourists pay big money for. Forget those basic lists, this is your definitive, expert guide to the best free things to do in Las Vegas, from must-see icons to hidden MGM treasures.

To truly experience Vegas, you have to hit the icons. While these sites aren't owned by MGM Resorts, we consider them essential stops for anyone looking for free attractions in Las Vegas.

There is no more famous photo op in the city, and surprisingly, the experience is completely free! The challenge isn't finding the sign, it's getting a photo without a massive line behind you.

Our Insider Tip: Beat the Crowds. The secret to getting a clear shot is to go early. We recommend arriving no later than 8:00 AM on a weekday. Yes, that means setting your alarm in Vegas, but you will beat the crowds, avoid the oppressive midday heat, and capture photos with perfect morning light. On busy weekends and holidays, we've seen lines easily stretch for an hour, so plan your trip accordingly!

Need a little artistic escape from the neon? This bold, colorful public art installation by Ugo Rondinone is a stack of neon painted boulders placed starkly against the Mojave Desert backdrop, making it one of the most Instagrammable free things to do in Las Vegas.

Our Insider Tip: Go for the Light. This installation is about 20 minutes south of the Strip and requires a car or rideshare (book your return ride immediately, as finding a driver out there can be tricky!). The parking is free, but the area has no facilities and gets incredibly hot. For the best photos, visit at sunrise or in the hour leading up to sunset the golden light makes the neon colors truly pop, and you'll find fewer people than during the busy midday rush. Remember to wear sunscreen and bring water!

These are the architectural and artistic experiences that we, as the experts, believe offer the highest value on the Strip, proving that luxury and splendor don't require an admission ticket. This is where to go for free in Las Vegas when you want to feel immersed in a five star experience.

You get a two for one spectacular at Bellagio! Outside, the Fountains are the ultimate, choreographed water, music, and light show. Inside, the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a 14,000 square foot sanctuary that changes dramatically five times a year for the seasons.

Our Insider Tip: Optimal Viewing. Everyone watches the Fountains from the fence, but the single best elevated viewing spot is the terrace near the main sidewalk entrance of the Paris Las Vegas, directly across the street. For the Conservatory, I always recommend visiting immediately after a seasonal installation. The plants and themed sculptures are at their freshest, making the free show even more perfect.

Need a break from the casino bustle? Explore The Park, the beautifully landscaped outdoor promenade that connects New York-New York and Park MGM on the Strip. This space was designed as an urban oasis, making it a spectacular free attraction in Las Vegas for simple relaxation.

Our Insider Tip: Free Entertainment Bonus. Don't just walk through, stop and appreciate the giant, breathtaking 40 foot tall Bliss Dance sculpture in the center. We've seen that The Park often features pop-up happy hour specials and free live music on the small stages, making it the perfect casual spot to meet before an event at T-Mobile Arena or simply for people watching.

If you are a lover of fine arts, don't overlook the walls and spaces of our own resorts. The ARIA Fine Art Collection is a museum quality experience woven seamlessly throughout the property.

Our Insider Tip: Take the Free Tour. While you can wander and enjoy the sculptures, paintings, and large scale installations on your own, we highly recommend arranging a free self guided walking tour (check with the resort concierge or website). This will provide the authoritative context and meaning behind the pieces, including works by world renowned artists that truly elevate your understanding of the resort's design vision.

Want to learn how to play like a Vegas pro without risking a single dollar? Several of our properties offer free gaming lessons daily. It’s the perfect, low stress way to brush up on your skills or finally learn a new game!

Our Insider Tip: Timing is Everything. It's time for you to learn how to play like the pros! For instance, Luxor offers free Craps, Blackjack, and Roulette lessons daily right at 12:00 PM at the main pit. If you've always wanted to learn Poker, Excalibur provides free lessons daily also at 12:00 PM in the Poker Room. Get there a few minutes early to secure your spot and you'll be a pro in no time!

As experts, our final advice is this: you don’t have to spend a fortune to be entertained. By stepping just outside the casino floor to appreciate the public art and world class free shows, you can easily save hundreds on your trip. The city's investment in spectacle is designed to be shared, so take advantage of it!