THE ULTIMATE 4-DAY LAS VEGAS ITINERARY (WRITTEN BY A LOCAL!)
Ready to spend 4 days in Las Vegas? This 4-Day Las Vegas itinerary will help you plan out everything you need to do during the trip including recommendations on things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and more!
Planning your 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary last minute?
No time to read the full itinerary? Here are some of Vegas's top activities, tours, hotels, and more!
Top Tours and Activities in Las Vegas:
1. "O" by Cirque du Soleil – the most popular Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas!
2. The Mob Museum – one of the best museums in Las Vegas
3. Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas – one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas
4. Venetian Gondola Ride + Madame Tussauds – two iconic Vegas attractions for one price!
Best Places to Stay in Las Vegas:
1. The Cosmopolitan – one of the top-rated hotels in Las Vegas
2. Horseshoe Las Vegas – affordable & perfectly located
3. Mandalay Bay – home to some of the best pools in Vegas
When you think of exciting US destinations for a quick getaway, Las Vegas is probably one of the first spots that comes to mind.
Las Vegas is world-famous for its gambling, nightlife, dining, and entertainment. With so many things to do, it's the perfect destination for a getaway with your partner or a group of friends.
I've been lucky enough to visit Las Vegas twice, and both times I had a blast experiencing all that Sin City has to offer. But, with so many things to choose from, planning your Las Vegas itinerary can be super overwhelming!
To help with planning the perfect Las Vegas itinerary, Shannon from Three Days in Vegas put together this ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas itinerary. Shannon is a local who lived in Las Vegas for 10 years, so you could say she's an expert on how to have the perfect trip to Sin City!
This Vegas itinerary was written with couples in mind, but you can easily tailor it for a trip with friends, family, or even a solo adventure!
Keep reading for tips on how to plan a perfect 4 days in Las Vegas, including a day-by-day itinerary, tips on where to stay and eat, and more helpful Las Vegas travel tips!
The Ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary
Welcome to the ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary, where we guide you through diverse experiences ranging from stunning tourist attractions to vibrant nightlife!
Amidst your Vegas getaway, explore world-class entertainment and indulge in exquisite gourmet restaurants while making unforgettable memories.
Sin City offers more than just casinos, it is a treasure trove of culture, art, and amazing outdoor adventures.
Day 1: Explore the Las Vegas Strip
Kicking off your 4-day Las Vegas itinerary, you simply cannot miss exploring the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
Start at the south end at the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign and make your way north to discover a plethora of attractions that this world-famous destination has to offer.
This Day 1 itinerary gives you plenty of options to choose from - pick one or two attractions to visit, or check out all of them!
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
At this point I am sure you are dying to get exploring, so get started with a visit to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign.
This historic landmark is considered by many as the official southern end of the famous Las Vegas Strip and is located across from Bali Hai Golf Club, one of two nearby golf courses.
There is usually a line to get pictures but it does move fast. On occasions, you might even get an opportunity to grab a pic with Elvis!
After grabbing some amazing photos at the sign (trust me when I say that these pictures are perfect for Instagram), head on up the strip to the next stop.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Diving into the underwater world of exotic marine life, you'll be in awe at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
Located right up the Las Vegas Strip at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, this exciting aquatic adventure features over 2,000 animals and offers an interactive glimpse into some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.
To take our Las Vegas experience a level higher (or deeper?), sign up for the unforgettable Shark Reef Shark Feed program. This guided tour not only gives you exclusive access to explore behind-the-scenes how sharks feed but also allows you to feed the sharks!
⭐️ BOOK NOW: Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor
When in Las Vegas, one must visit the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor.
This exhibition, located at the Luxor Hotel & Casino, displays over 250 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of the infamous ocean liner, Titanic.
It also features recreations of famous rooms from the ship to give visitors a realistic feeling of what it was like aboard during its short maiden voyage. I found this exhibit both haunting and fascinating.
Walking through this museum is like stepping back in time, as you learn about the tragedy that happened on April 15th, 1912.
⭐️ Pre-book your Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition skip-the-line tickets!
Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is a must-visit for any thrill-seekers exploring the Las Vegas Strip.
This steel hyper roller coaster features a heartline twist and dive maneuver that offers an adrenaline rush like no other.
With speeds reaching over 67 mph and providing more than a 203 ft drop, it's not for the faint of heart!
The ride begins with a steep incline that provides fantastic views of the strip before rushing down into twists, turns, and drops.
⭐️ Book your Big Apple Coaster tickets here!
Fountains of Bellagio
The Fountains of Bellagio, outside of the Bellagio Resort, is an iconic free Las Vegas attraction that should not be missed during your 4-day itinerary.
The water feature show features complex water displays set to music, and it's completely free to watch.
It’s one of the must-see sights on The Strip, which has been dazzling visitors for over two decades.
Each show lasts for a specific amount of time ranging from three to five minutes, featuring different songs and effects designed to mesmerize spectators.
Pro tip: the show is best enjoyed at night when you can see both the fountains and their lights!
Gondola Rides at The Venetian
On Day 1 of your Las Vegas itinerary, be sure not to miss the romantic and enchanting gondola rides at The Venetian.
The authentic Venetian gondolas glide down the Grand Canal inside the resort, offering a unique and intimate experience for couples.
Each gondola can seat up to four people, but renting a private two-person boat will make it even more special.
Gondolas at The Venetian
The beautiful waterway tour will take you under bridges while being serenaded by your very own singing gondolier providing an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish forever.
Don't forget to admire the stunning architecture inspired by Venice and soak up all of its cultural details while on board.
You can purchase tickets in advance online, making it easy and convenient for you to include this must-visit attraction during your visit to the Las Vegas strip.
Dinner and a Show
By this point in the day, you are probably getting hungry and need a break from the crowds.
When it comes to the Las Vegas experience, there is nothing quite like a night out on the Strip.
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to shows on the Strip, including musicals, acrobatics, comedy acts, and more.
One popular choice is Cirque du Soleil's "O" at the Bellagio Hotel, which combines aquatic elements with incredible feats of athleticism and stunning choreography.
Another fantastic option is The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil at The Mirage Hotel (soon to be Hard Rock) for those who enjoy classic rock music paired with jaw-dropping acrobatic stunts.
Many musicians also have residencies in Las Vegas, where they play several shows over a period of time at a Vegas venue. You can see all current and upcoming Las Vegas residencies here.
Here are some more of the most popular shows in Las Vegas:
⭐️ Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil at Mandalay Bay
⭐️ Mystère by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino
⭐️ David Copperfield at the MGM Grand
⭐️ KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand
Day 2: Choose an Outdoor Adventure
On day two of your Las Vegas itinerary, it's time to step away from the bustling casinos and immerse yourself in the exciting adventure and natural beauty surrounding Sin City.
You'll be amazed at how many outdoor activities are at your fingertips within a short drive.
Discover amazing things to see at Red Rock Canyon or visit the Hoover Dam before experiencing the unbeatable nightlife.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a must-visit attraction for travelers who are looking to escape the chaos of Las Vegas and immerse themselves in natural beauty.
Red Rock Canyon is a nature lover's dream located about a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas and a perfect spot to capture those Instagrammable moments.
The canyon is filled with diverse and colorful rock formations, natural beauty, and vivid colors that are sure to awaken your inner adventurer.
As outdoor recreation enthusiasts ourselves, we particularly recommend spending day two exploring and hiking Red Rock Canyon. The Calico Hills area and the Calico Tanks trail are ideal spots to hike, enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape, or indulge in some rock-climbing or other adventure activities.
Red Rock Canyon is under a half-hour drive from the Strip. If you don't have a car while in Vegas, I recommend taking a tour that will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Red Rock Canyon, where a guide will show you the best that the area has to offer.
⭐️ This is the best Red Rock Canyon tour from Vegas!
Hoover Dam
Visiting the Hoover Dam is another top pick for day 2.
Located on the Arizona-Nevada border, this massive structure was built during the Great Depression and provides hydroelectric power to both states.
While there, you can walk across the top of the dam and enjoy stunning views of the Colorado River below.
You can also explore other attractions nearby such as Boulder City, Lake Mead, and even take in the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
Visiting Hoover Dam makes for a memorable day trip from Las Vegas. Sign up for a guided tour to learn about its history and construction process or you can simply view it from afar at nearby lookout points for awe-inspiring views!
The Hoover Dam is about 45 minutes from Las Vegas. You'll probably be able to get an Uber or Lyft there, but getting one to return to Vegas might be tricky! (Editor's Note: I (Sydney) might have personal experience with this...)
Because of this, I highly recommend taking a guided tour to the Hoover Dam from Vegas if you don't have access to a car.
I recommend this Hoover Dam tour from Vegas. It lasts about 3.5 hours, so you have plenty of time to both see the Hoover Dam and explore more of Vegas itself once you return. You can even add on a stop at the nearby Seven Magic Mountains!
If you want a more in-depth Hoover Dam experience, this 6.5-hour Hoover Dam tour from Vegas includes a guided tour of the Dam, a tour of the power plant, lunch, and more!
⭐️ This is my favorite Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas!
Grand Canyon
Day 2 of your Las Vegas itinerary is all about outdoor adventures, and what better way to experience the natural wonders than by taking a trip to the Grand Canyon?
Tours for visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas can be booked via helicopter (for the spendy travelers) or by jeep/van/bus and can be done as day trips or overnight stays.
Most of the day trips visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, which isn't part of Grand Canyon National Park. The West Rim is home to the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk, the glass walkway that extends over the canyon's rim.
Many of the Grand Canyon West Rim day trips also include a stop at Hoover Dam.
There are also full-day tours to the Grand Canyon South Rim from Las Vegas. These tours take you to some of the most beautiful viewpoints of the canyon located within Grand Canyon National Park.
⭐️ I recommend this Grand Canyon South Rim tour from Vegas
Check out the famous Las Vegas Nightlife
After a day of exploring some of the natural wonders around Vegas, you are probably ready for a drink!
You can't leave without experiencing the city's infamous nightlife. From sprawling nightclubs and rooftop bars to intimate lounges and live music venues, Las Vegas has it all.
If you're looking for high-energy dance floors and celebrity DJs, check out Hakkasan at MGM Grand or XS at Encore.
For a more subdued setting with craft cocktails and sophisticated vibes, head over to The Chandelier Bar or Vesper Bar at The Cosmopolitan.
Whatever your preference may be, Las Vegas promises an unforgettable night out on the town!
Day 3: Explore Downtown Las Vegas
On day 3 of our Las Vegas itinerary, you'll immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art and culture scene.
Even though Sin City is primarily known for its over-the-top entertainment and glitzy casinos, there's a hidden gem that lies beneath it all – the thriving world of museums and galleries.
Explore the vibrant side of Las Vegas by checking out some of the best things to do in downtown Las Vegas, such as Fremont Street, 18b Arts District, Mob Museum, Neon Museum, and Area 15.
Fremont Street Experience
On Day 3 of your Las Vegas itinerary, be sure to explore Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas.
Known as the Glitter Gulch, this pedestrian walkway offers an unforgettable experience with its overhead LED canopy that spans across five blocks.
One of the highlights of your trip will likely be experiencing the Fremont Street Experience light show once night falls.
As you gaze up at the incredible display, complete with music and special effects, you'll feel like you're in a different world altogether.
18b Arts District
Another fun thing to do on your third day in Vegas is explore the 18b Arts District, located just over a mile from downtown Las Vegas.
The district's name comes from its original development as an 18-block area dedicated to supporting local artists and art lovers alike.
The district is easily walkable, especially during favorable weather conditions, offering you the chance to discover numerous galleries featuring works by local artists.
We also enjoyed exploring the murals on buildings and walls around the area that showcase some of the most impressive street art we've ever seen.
The 18b also has some great vintage clothing stores to explore, cool bars, and one of the hottest food scenes in Las Vegas.
Seeing so many people come together to support this budding creative community in Las Vegas was fantastic.
This 18b Crawl tour, led by a local guide, is a great way to see more of the district.
The Mob Museum
While in Downtown Las Vegas, check out the Mob Museum to learn about organized crime history in America.
This unique museum focuses on the history of organized crime and law enforcement in America, with an emphasis on Las Vegas.
Don't miss out on visiting their Distillery or Speakeasy while you're there for a truly immersive experience. This will be one of the highlights of your trip!
⭐️ Book admission tickets to The Mob Museum here!
Neon Museum
We visited the Neon Museum during our exploration of downtown Las Vegas, and it was one of the best experiences on our trip.
The outdoor exhibition space showcases over 200 retired signs from vintage casinos and businesses across town, providing a unique peek into old Vegas.
What we loved about the Neon Museum was not just its historical value but also its artistic appeal.
Walking among these colorful vintage signs under the bright blue sky made us feel like we were in an outdoor art gallery. It was as if each sign had its own story to tell.
The guided tour was informative and engaging, giving us insight into how this nonprofit organization salvages and restores vintage Vegas neon.
I highly recommend visiting at night when the restored electric lights come alive, creating a surreal atmosphere that will leave you awestruck.
Tickets often sell out, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
AREA15
As young adults exploring Las Vegas, you don't want to miss out on AREA15, an immersive entertainment and events district located in downtown Las Vegas.
The futuristic architecture and open space concept make it a unique shopping destination that offers a surreal experience.
Make sure to stop by Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, a store that puts a surrealist twist on traditional grocery stores making for an unforgettable shopping adventure.
It boasts of unique shopping opportunities with hidden “experience rooms” scattered throughout the aisles.
⭐️ Book your Omega Mart tickets here!
Day 4 in Las Vegas: Relax!
After three action-packed days of exploring in and around Las Vegas, day 4 of your Las Vegas itinerary is all about relaxation and fun activities.
Take advantage of the many entertainment options that Las Vegas has to offer, or head to one of the many luxury spas for a relaxing massage or facial.
Treat yourself to a Spa Visit
After three full days of exploring the Las Vegas Strip and enjoying outdoor adventures, it's time to relax and pamper yourselves on day four.
Las Vegas is home to some of the best spas in the world, offering a wide range of services from massages to beauty treatments and aromatherapy.
Guests can choose from various massage therapies such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, or even opt for a romantic couples' massage.
The Wynn Spa offers a unique "Lily Pad" experience where guests can rent their own private cabana by the pool while indulging in spa treatments.
If you want something more intimate, you could try out some of the most romantic couples’ massages in Las Vegas like Couple's Dessert Stone Indulgence or Good Luck Ritual – both offered at The Wynn.
Most of the spas at the resorts on the Strip are pretty pricey, but you can find more affordable places. The Spa at the LINQ has prices a bit closer to what you might pay outside of Vegas. You can also frequently find Las Vegas spa deals on Groupon.
Relax at one of the amazing Las Vegas Pools
There's no better way to soak up the Las Vegas sun than by lounging at one of the amazing pools.
One of my favorite picks is the Boulevard Pool at Cosmopolitan. This hotel boasts a rooftop pool surrounded by plunge pools with a serene environment overlooking the strip and perfect for relaxing as a couple.
If you're looking for something more lively, Caesars Palace has the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis with seven different pool experiences – from swim-up blackjack tables to luxurious daybeds with personalized service.
Most Vegas resorts sell pool passes so that you can visit even if you're not staying at the resort.
If you want to party a bit more, consider visiting one of the Vegas Day Clubs or pool parties!
Enjoy a Final Dinner
As your 4 day Las Vegas trip comes to a close, there's nothing better than enjoying a delicious dinner as you wind down your trip.
Las Vegas is renowned for its world-class restaurants, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
Many of the restaurants on the Strip are expensive, but you can treat yourself to a special dinner at a reasonable price.
For a delicious meal that won't break the bank, check out Chin Chin, a great Chinese restaurant in the MGM that's among the top-rated restaurants on the Strip. Here, you'll find delicious food, great drinks, and a nice atmosphere – all at a great price.
For a really special experience, make a reservation at L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon in the MGM Grand. This restaurant serves French cuisine and even has a Michelin star, but the prices are much less than what you'll find at Vegas's other Michelin-starred restaurants.
4 Days in Las Vegas: Top Las Vegas Travel Tips
Ready to start planning the details of your Las Vegas trip? Here are some helpful Las Vegas travel tips!
When to Visit Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but there are times when it's better to visit Sin City than others.
Here are the ideal times to plan a trip to Las Vegas:
- Spring (February – April): This season brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time to explore outdoor attractions like Red Rock Canyon or Hoover Dam. You can also time your visit so that it's over spring break!
- Fall (September – November): Similar to spring, autumn features beautiful weather conditions and less crowded tourist destinations. It's an ideal time for sightseeing trips and exploring the city’s top attractions.
- Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak season in Las Vegas as many people choose this period for their vacation. However, do expect high temperatures that can sometimes rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime.
- Winter (December – January): Although winter temperatures are mild compared to other parts of the country, they can be too cold for some visitors looking forward to enjoying outdoor activities in Las Vegas.
- Major Events: When planning a trip to Las Vegas, consider the city's busy events calendar and schedule accordingly. Popular events like New Year's Eve, Super Bowl Weekend, and Fourth of July attract huge crowds making it hard to secure good accommodation options at affordable rates.
Celebratory events, like a 21st birthday, a bachelor or bachelorette party, or an engagement are also great times to plan a trip to Las Vegas!
Las Vegas has something for everyone throughout the year no matter when you prefer traveling here; however, choosing the right time means you get optimal weather patterns whilst avoiding peak periods with expensive rates that may put a dent in your budget.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Looking for accommodation options in Las Vegas? Here are some recommendations to consider:
The Bellagio
Known for its luxury and iconic fountain show, offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of the city.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Bellagio
The Cosmopolitan
⭐️ Rating: 9/10
This trendy hotel is perfect for young adults looking to experience the night scene in Las Vegas. It features an energetic atmosphere, DJs, and rooftop pools.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Cosmopolitan
ARIA Resort & Casino
With modern decor and a central location on the Strip, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to explore the city's most popular attractions.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at ARIA Resort & Casino
Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
Mandalay Bay is one of the best hotels in Las Vegas if you're looking to relax by the pool. This resort features an artificial beach with wave pools and lazy river rides.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at Mandalay Bay
The Venetian Resort
For travelers who love Italian-inspired architecture, The Venetian offers elegant suites styled after Venice's canals. It also has several high-end dining options and a casino attached.
⭐️ Check prices and availability at The Venetian
Horseshoe Las Vegas
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly place to stay in Las Vegas, look no further than Horseshoe (formerly Bally's). It's not the fanciest place to stay, but it's perfectly located in the middle of the Strip, the rooms are nice and clean, and the rates are great!
⭐️ Check prices and availability at Horseshoe Las Vegas
Remember to book ahead of time as hotels in Las Vegas tend to fill up quickly!
Another important thing to keep in mind when booking your Las Vegas hotel: most of the hotels charge a daily resort fee, so make sure to account for that in your budget.
A nightly rate might look low, but you'll likely have to add on a $24-$45 daily resort fee to that price.
This website does a great job of keeping an updated list of Las Vegas resort fees.
Getting Around Las Vegas
Navigating Las Vegas can be overwhelming, but there are several options for getting around the city without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:
- Public Transportation – The RTC (Regional Transportation Commission) offers several bus routes throughout the city, including the Deuce which runs along the Las Vegas Strip. A 24-hour pass costs $8 and a 3-day pass costs $20, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.
- Ride Sharing – Services like Uber and Lyft are popular in Las Vegas and provide a convenient way to get around the city. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but it is typically more expensive than public transportation.
- Las Vegas Monorail – The Las Vegas Monorail connects several major hotels and attractions along the Strip. A single ride starts at $5 and day passes start at $13.
- Walking – Depending on where you're staying and what activities you have planned, walking can be a great way to get some exercise while exploring the city.
- Rental Car – You definitely don't need a rental car in Las Vegas as both public transportation and ride-sharing are convenient for getting around. But if you want a rental to take a day trip, or if you're visiting Vegas as part of a longer road trip and are renting a car for that, Discover Cars is the best site for finding the best price and booking rentals.
4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions
Is 4 days enough in Vegas?
Spending 4 days in Las Vegas is the perfect amount of time to experience the city! You'll be able to hit the top sights on the Strip and Downtown, check out the nightlife, and go on an outdoor adventure or two.
How to pack for 4 days in Vegas?
When planning your Vegas packing list, make sure to include comfortable walking shoes, a nicer outfit for dinner or going out, a jacket for chilly nights, a swimsuit, flip-flops for the pool, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and your government-issued ID so you can get into the bars and casinos!
How much money do you need in Vegas for 4 days?
Vegas isn't the cheapest destination. It can be done cheaply, but spending a bit more will give you a better experience. It can also be quite expensive depending on where you eat and stay! For a mid-range Vegas budget, plan on about $200 a day.
4 Days in Las Vegas: Wrap-Up
Las Vegas is the perfect destination for a 4-day trip with your friends, family, or significant other.
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan an itinerary. However, this 4-day Las Vegas itinerary offers some of the best experiences in Las Vegas for young travelers.
From exploring the famous Strip and enjoying gourmet dining options to outdoor adventures like hiking at Red Rock Canyon or visiting the Hoover Dam, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
2023-06-06T02:44:29Z dg43tfdfdgfd