Two Days in Las Vegas: The Ultimate Weekend Getaway

Las Vegas, also known as “Sin City” has many activities that can be squeezed into a weekend. You may be thinking, how much can I fit into just two days? Having explored Vegas multiple times, I’ve curated this perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your limited time! Below you will find a jam-packed itinerary for two days in Las Vegas,  to make the best of your time, whether you are looking for entertainment, relaxation, or adventure.

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What to Do in Vegas

Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Must-See Attractions

The Iconic Strip

Kick off your 48 hours in Las Vegas with a morning walk along the famous Las Vegas Strip. It’s the perfect introduction to the city’s glitzy ambiance and architectural marvels. Make your way to Dominque Ansel in Caesars Palace for an amazing flaky pastry and latte. I promise it will be amazing. I have no idea how many times I have walked the strip in my life! There is always something to see and explore.

If you are a book lover, there are many great bookstores in Vegas that you can visit. If you enjoy rare collections, then head to the Venetian Resort and visit Bauman Rare Books to satisfy your love for rare books.

Gastronomic Exploration & Soaring Fun

Depending on how you are feeling, I’m recommending two options for lunch. For a memorable Italian lunch, visit Eataly in the Park MGM. Your visit would not be complete without indulging in this culinary excellence.

If you are looking for something a bit more casual and American, then head to Virgil’s Real Barbecue for a good southern BBQ lunch.

If you didn’t visit the Linq Promenade on your morning walk, then head down there for some fun. I highly recommend visiting the Honolulu Cookie Company as they have the best shortbread cookies! My visits to Las Vegas are never complete without a stop there.

If you are up for some fun during your 2 days in Las Vegas, then consider trying the FlyLinq Zipline over the Linq Promenade or the High Roller at the Linq, giving you views of Las Vegas from the 550-foot observation wheel.

Head next door to the Flamingo Hotel check out the flamingo exhibit and take a nice stroll through the gardens.

Stop at Carlo’s ’N Charlie’s Mexican Restaurant during happy hour from 2-6 pm every day for their 2X1 frozen margaritas. Very good and they are not stingy on the alcohol! I wish I spent more time there – it seems like it would be a really fun place to hang out all night!

Evening Entertainment

I highly recommend making dinner reservations at Ramsay’s Kitchen in Harrahs. I 100% promise you will have the most amazing meal. A weekend in Las Vegas is never complete with eating in this restaurant, in my opinion. Every time I visit Vegas, I eat here. Here’s a sample of some of the food I have experienced there. They provide exceptional service and the ambiance is great.

Your two days in Las Vegas must include a night of some type of performance. A classic show to see if it is your first-weekend getaway to Vegas is “O” by Cirque du Soleil.

If you want an intriguing magic and mind-reading show that’s not too hard on the wallet then I recommend The Mentalist at Planet Hollywood.  Make sure you book your tickets in advance to guarantee a seat. We enjoyed this show and it is loosely based on the tv show, The Mentalist.

Day 2: Hidden Gems and Fun Activities

Get Outdoors – Hiking

Your 2 days in Las Vegas can be more than just city sights. Head out to Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire State Park for an easy hike near Las Vegas in the morning. You will be given a serene escape with trails that cater to all hiking levels, even if you are a beginner hiker.

The Heart of Old Las Vegas

It’s time to leave the Strip and venture back in time. Hop on the Deuce and head down towards Freemont Street. But if you are up for a treat, and it is your thing, stop at Zak Bagan’s Haunted Museum for an eerie treat. If that’s not your thing, then keep going down towards old downtown to check out the Mob Museum, and get your gangster on!

Freemont Street

As part of your 2 days in Las Vegas, you must dedicate time to explore Fremont Street. Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street offers a different vibe from the Strip, with its vintage charm, classic casinos, and the famous Fremont Street Experience.

Fremont Street is buzzing with live performers, from musicians to street artists, enhancing your weekend getaway to Las Vegas with unforgettable entertainment.

For the thrill-seekers, the SlotZilla zipline offers a unique way to see Fremont Street from above, day or night.

Visiting Freemont Street would not be complete without visiting the iconic Golden Nugget. Stroll through the hotel, and check out the Tank Pool, with the sharks on display. Dine in one of the amazing restaurants and win some money in the casino.

The Fremont Street Experience is a massive LED canopy that spans five blocks, offering free, spectacular light shows every night. This visual marvel is a highlight of any 2 day Las Vegas itinerary. Worth spending a few hours soaking in the vibe which is completely different from the strip.

Alternate Day 2: Majestic Grand Canyon

If you are a true lover of the outdoors, maybe visiting the Grand Canyon is on your bucket list. It is possible from Las Vegas!

It is a 10-hour day trip, and you can take a bus tour to the Grand Canyon West Rim from Vegas. Witness the awe-inspiring landscapes along the way, and marvel at one of nature’s most incredible creations, situated on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. I’ve never been to the main side of the Grand Canyon – so this was another bucket list item, I checked out. If you can fit it into your weekend in Vegas, please do this!

You can read about my trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas to decide if it’s something you want to make part of your weekend in Las Vegas.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Selecting the right accommodation is crucial for your weekend getaway in Las Vegas. Whether it’s the luxury of The Bellagio, the tranquility of the Hilton Grand Vacations, or the affordability of Harrah’s, there are many options to choose from. We put together a list of the best places to stay in Vegas and I am sure you will find a great option for where to stay in Vegas.

Budgeting for your 48 hours in Las Vegas

Anticipate spending approximately $400 – $600 per person for accommodations, meals, show tickets, and tours, not including gambling. This estimate will allow you to know how much you need to budget and save for your weekend in Las Vegas.

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas for a short trip

Your 2 days in Las Vegas can be influenced by the time of year. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring both the city and nature. Avoid summer’s peak temperatures for outdoor activities.

I find the best time to visit is November or December. The weather is cooler and may have fewer crowds if not around any major events or holidays. Be advised that many of the hotels close their pools for the winter season.

Tips for Visiting Las Vegas

• Sign up for a rewards program. I recommend Caesars Rewards as it provides the ability to accumulate points in 9 hotels in Las Vegas and resorts in other locations in the USA. Points can be gained from your hotel stay, restaurants, shows, and gambling. I was able to get a free stay on my last trip to Las Vegas
• Plan not to visit in the summer months, June-September, to avoid the heat and crowds
• Wear good walking shoes. You can’t help but walk a lot while in Vegas
• Bring a light sweater or jacket, as the evenings can get very cool
• Drink lots of water; free alcohol while gambling can be great, but you can get dehydrated very quickly
• It’s easy to overspend no matter how long you are there. Be smart with your money…unless money is no object!
• Enjoy the culinary treats and people-watching. It is hard not to do these things!

Your weekend in Las Vegas can be as packed or relaxed as you desire. Prioritize experiences that interest you most, whether that’s casino hopping, seeing shows, or exploring the natural landscapes beyond the city limits.

What to do in Vegas for 2 days is a question with endless answers, but with this itinerary, you are well on your way to experiencing the best Vegas has to offer. Pack your bags for an unforgettable two days in Las Vegas, where every minute is an adventure waiting to happen.

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