11 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Las Vegas

11 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Las Vegas

An insider’s guide to the unexpected side of Sin City.

Las Vegas has long been synonymous with high-stakes casinos, dazzling lights, and over-the-top entertainment. From world-famous Cirque du Soleil shows to mind-bending magic acts, most visitors come for the thrill and spectacle. But there’s so much more to Sin City than slot machines and stage lights.

Look past the glittering Strip, and you’ll uncover a surprising side of Las Vegas—one filled with quirky attractions, hidden gems, and unexpected adventures. Whether you're a returning visitor or a curious first-timer, these offbeat experiences reveal a whole new dimension of the desert city.

Here are 11 unique and unforgettable things you probably didn’t know you could do in Las Vegas.

1. Take a spin in a zippy sportscar

Take the Wheel at a Las Vegas Racetrack

Skip the cocktails and opt for pure adrenaline at Speedvegas, where you can channel your inner racecar driver. This hidden gem offers an unforgettable thrill: choose from a fleet of nearly 20 exotic supercars and take them for a spin on a professional racetrack—no experience necessary. With packages offering 5–10 laps, you can hit speeds of up to 130 mph (208 km/h). Don’t have a license? No worries—you can still feel the rush with a ride-along experience in a roaring Dodge Hellcat SRT driven by a pro.

🏁 Best for: Car enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and sober adventurers.
🚗 Insider tip: Book early for your dream car—popular models go fast (literally).

2. Discover secret pizza and speakeasies

Discover Las Vegas’ Secret Foodie Hotspots

Want to eat like a local in Las Vegas? Skip the obvious tourist traps and join a culinary walking tour led by a true Las Vegan insider. From hidden speakeasies tucked behind unmarked doors to budget-friendly bites even seasoned foodies rave about, this off-the-beaten-path experience unveils a tastier side of the Strip. One highlight? A stop at the cult-favorite Secret Pizza, a no-sign, no-frills pizzeria that lives up to its name—and its hype.

🍕 Perfect for: Food lovers, first-timers, and anyone craving more than just buffet dining.
🥂 Bonus: Many tours include drink pairings and stories behind the city’s hidden gems.

3. Play in a larger-than-life sandbox

Operate Heavy Machinery at Dig This Las Vegas

Who says Las Vegas is only about bright lights and entertainment? Unleash your inner construction worker at Dig This Las Vegas, where you can take control of real heavy machinery like bulldozers and excavators. Whether you're digging, pushing, or moving massive piles of dirt, this hands-on adventure lets you experience the thrill of construction work—on a grand scale. Families are welcome too! While the big equipment is ideal for teens and adults, younger kids can have fun with mini construction trucks under the guidance of their parents.

🚜 Best for: Families, thrill-seekers, and anyone who’s ever dreamed of driving a bulldozer.
🛠️ Pro tip: Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes—you'll be in the driver's seat for real!

4. Immerse yourself in experiential art

Explore a Psychedelic Funhouse at AREA15

For those who crave the weird, the wacky, and the wildly creative, AREA15 on the Strip is an absolute must-see. This immersive arts complex offers a collection of mind-bending attractions, with the standout being Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart—a supermarket where reality bends and distorts in the most surreal way possible. But that’s just the beginning! Inside AREA15, you can also experience the Illuminarium, a 4K immersive theater that takes you on a journey from the African savannah to the farthest reaches of outer space. For those seeking more thrills, there’s virtual-reality dodgeball, a flight simulator, and even indoor ziplining.

🎨 Best for: Art lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a truly unique Las Vegas experience.
🚀 Tip: Set aside a few hours to explore all the immersive exhibits—there’s a lot to take in!

5. Smash things up

Release Your Tension in a Rage Room

Feeling stressed or just looking for a unique way to blow off some steam? Head to The Wreck Room, Las Vegas’ ultimate rage room where you can take your frustrations out by smashing items to your heart's content. Whether you’re angry or simply looking for a fun, cathartic workout, this is a safe and satisfying way to unleash your energy. Gear up in protective clothing, grab a crowbar or bat, and go to town on TVs, plates, and more—without any worries about cleanup. Just book your session in advance for this one-of-a-kind experience.

💥 Perfect for: Stress relief, group activities, or anyone looking to release some energy in a fun way.
⚡ Insider tip: It's a great activity for a group or team-building outing!

6. Learn about Indigenous history

Uncover History in the Desert at the Lost City Museum

For a truly hidden gem that’s a step away from the neon lights of Las Vegas, take a scenic drive about an hour outside the city to the Lost City Museum. Nestled in the desert, this museum offers an immersive look into the lives of the Puebloan people who once thrived in Nevada. You’ll discover reconstructed dwellings, ancient artifacts, and exhibitions that offer a deep dive into the culture and history of these early settlers. Many tours from Las Vegas also combine a visit to Valley of Fire State Park, where you can explore the stunning Moapa petroglyphs—rock carvings left by Native American tribes thousands of years ago. This is a perfect day trip for history buffs and those seeking a more peaceful, reflective side of Nevada.

🏜️ Ideal for: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the desert’s rich cultural past.
🌵 Tip: Bring water, wear sunscreen, and be prepared for the desert heat, especially in summer months!

7. Try your luck at UFO–sighting

Explore the Truth Behind the UFOs on the Extraterrestrial Highway

For those with a fascination for the unexplained, Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway (also known as Route 375) is one of the most iconic spots on Earth for alien enthusiasts. Whether you're a staunch skeptic or a full-fledged believer in extraterrestrial life, this adventure takes you through mystical desert landscapes where sightings of UFOs are rumored to be a common occurrence. Your journey will take you toward Area 51, formally known as Homey Airport (KXTA), which has been the subject of countless UFO theories and conspiracies. Hop on an alien-themed tour to learn all about the top-secret research allegedly taking place there, and maybe even decide for yourself if the whole Area 51 saga is part of a government cover-up or just a captivating conspiracy theory.

👽 Best for: Alien enthusiasts, conspiracy theory buffs, and anyone who loves a bit of mystery and adventure.
🌌 Pro tip: Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when a UFO might make a surprise appearance!

8. Visit the world’s most famous pawn shop

Trade Your Treasures at the Famous Pawn Stars Shop

If you’ve ever watched Pawn Stars, the reality TV show that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the famous Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, you’ll be excited to know that this iconic spot is right in the heart of Las Vegas and open for business. On a reality show tour, you’ll get exclusive skip-the-line access to one of the world’s most recognizable pawn shops. As part of the tour, you’ll also visit a variety of filming locations used for other popular reality shows like American Restoration and Counting Cars. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply see the place where famous deals went down, this tour offers an insider’s look at the world of reality TV in Las Vegas.

🎥 Ideal for: Fans of reality TV, collectors, and anyone who enjoys a good behind-the-scenes look.
💎 Insider tip: Don’t forget to ask the staff about the show’s stars—they might share some fun stories about filming!

9. See the real Wild West

Step Back in Time at the Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings

For a historic and authentic cowboy town experience, take a short drive 30 miles south of Las Vegas to the Pioneer Saloon in the old town of Goodsprings. This saloon has remained largely unchanged since its establishment in the 1800s, making it a perfect spot for those looking to channel their inner Buffalo Bill and embrace the Old West. Some even claim the spirits of the bar's original patrons still linger, adding a thrilling touch to your visit. Whether you embark on a ghost-hunting tour to explore the saloon's haunted past or simply stop by for a hearty lunch after an off-road adventure in the Mojave Desert, the Pioneer Saloon promises a unique peek into the area's rich history—and possibly a few ghostly encounters along the way.

🤠 Perfect for: History buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in ghost stories or old-time Western culture.
🛻 Tip: Pair your visit with a 4WD adventure in the desert to make the most of your trip to Goodsprings.

10. Fly over the Grand Canyon

Soar Above the Grand Canyon and More with a Helicopter Tour

While what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, sometimes you’ll want to venture beyond the city limits to experience the truly breathtaking sights that surround it. One of the most exhilarating ways to take in the area’s natural wonders is by booking a helicopter tour from Las Vegas. These tours offer a bird's-eye view of some of the most iconic landmarks, including the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and the Hoover Dam—all in one unforgettable flight. Plus, you’ll get to see the neon-lit Las Vegas Strip from the sky, giving you a perspective of the city that you can’t get anywhere else.

🪂 Perfect for: Anyone looking for a thrilling, high-altitude adventure or those wanting to see the beauty of the region from above.
🎥 Pro tip: Don’t forget your camera—these scenic vistas are truly Instagram-worthy.

11. Brush up on your mobster knowledge

Explore the Mafia's Role in Shaping Las Vegas at the Mob Museum

Las Vegas may be famous for its flashy casinos and dazzling entertainment, but much of its early rise as an iconic entertainment capital can be traced back to the Mafia. These underworld figures played a crucial role in building and launching some of the city's first casinos and hotels. To dive deep into this fascinating piece of history, head to the Mob Museum, officially known as the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. Housed in a historic courthouse, this museum offers interactive exhibits, a hands-on crime lab, and detailed displays that explore the Mafia's influence in the city and its role in 20th-century American history. You’ll also learn about some of the most notorious mobsters and the brave detectives who brought them down. As an added bonus, the museum features an underground speakeasy, allowing you to step back in time and enjoy a drink in the spirit of Prohibition-era Vegas.

💼 Perfect for: History enthusiasts, true crime fans, or anyone fascinated by the story of the Mafia and its ties to the city's roots.
🍸 Tip: Don't miss the speakeasy for a chance to experience a secretive side of Las Vegas history.

 

Published: 07 May 2025