Las Vegas in the summer is sizzling—both in temperature and in energy. With temperatures often climbing above 100°F, it’s essential to balance your itinerary between indoor indulgences and cool outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned Vegas veteran, the summer months offer a unique mix of entertainment, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Here are the best things to do in Las Vegas during the summer.
1. Lounge at a Luxurious Pool
Vegas pools are more than just places to swim—they’re entire scenes. From the tropical paradise at Mandalay Bay’s Beach with its wave pool and real sand, to the party atmosphere at Encore Beach Club, there’s a pool for every mood. For a quieter day, try the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace, which offers multiple pools, cabanas, and daybeds for ultimate relaxation.
2. See a Spectacular Show
Beat the heat and experience world-class entertainment indoors. Summer is the perfect time to catch a Cirque du Soleil show like O, Mystère, or The Beatles LOVE. If you’re into comedy, magic, or music, the Strip has endless options—from residencies by global superstars to mind-bending illusionists like David Copperfield.
3. Explore Fremont Street
Downtown Las Vegas’ Fremont Street Experience offers a vibrant alternative to the Strip. The outdoor LED canopy lights up with nightly light shows, and the street is alive with music, performers, and energy. Try the SlotZilla zipline for a thrilling ride above the crowds, or just enjoy a cold drink and people-watch in this nostalgic part of Vegas.
4. Visit an Ice Bar or Cool Lounge
When the desert heat becomes overwhelming, chill—literally—at one of Vegas’s ice bars. Minus5 Ice Bar, located at Mandalay Bay and The Venetian, offers a sub-zero experience where everything from the walls to the glasses is made of ice. If you’re not into full frost, there are plenty of upscale lounges with refreshing cocktails and air-conditioned ambiance.
5. Take a Helicopter Tour Over the Strip
One of the most memorable ways to see Las Vegas is from the sky. A nighttime helicopter tour offers stunning views of the glittering Strip, lit up like a neon dream. For a longer adventure, consider a tour that includes the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, or Lake Mead.
6. Experience High-End Shopping
Step into air-conditioned luxury at The Forum Shops at Caesars, The Shops at Crystals, or Fashion Show Mall. Whether you’re just browsing or on a designer spree, Vegas offers retail therapy at its finest. Many malls also feature art installations, fountains, and upscale dining options for a full-day escape from the heat.
7. Day Trip to Red Rock Canyon
If you’re up for an early morning adventure, Red Rock Canyon offers incredible hiking and scenic drives just 30 minutes from the Strip. Go early to beat the heat, bring plenty of water, and enjoy the stunning rock formations and desert landscapes. Even in the summer, nature lovers will find the beauty of the Mojave Desert hard to resist.
8. Enjoy Summer Nightlife
As the sun sets, Las Vegas transforms. Summer nights bring rooftop bars, open-air clubs, and pool parties under the stars. Popular spots like Omnia, XS, and Marquee offer world-class DJs and a party atmosphere that keeps going into the early hours.
9. Cool Down with Gourmet Eats
Las Vegas is a food lover’s paradise, and summer is the perfect time to sample chilled culinary delights. Indulge in sushi at Nobu, oysters at Estiatorio Milos, or gourmet gelato at Amorino. Many top restaurants offer summer specials, and with so many celebrity chefs in town, you can enjoy a five-star meal with a side of air conditioning.
10. Visit Unique Indoor Attractions
Finally, don’t miss out on the city’s eclectic indoor experiences. Wander through immersive art installations at Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, test your courage at the Titanic Artifact Exhibit, or explore the Neon Museum after dark. Las Vegas offers something unexpected around every corner—even when you’re dodging the sun.
Las Vegas in summer is a city of contrasts—hot days and cool escapes, wild parties and quiet moments of luxury. With the right mix of indoor and outdoor activities, your summer visit can be both thrilling and comfortable. Just remember to stay hydrated, plan some breaks from the heat, and enjoy everything this iconic city has to offer.