You’ve booked your room at the giant castle on the corner of Tropicana and Las Vegas Boulevard. Now it’s time to plan your royal adventure. The area around Excalibur is a vibrant hub of activity, connecting you to several major resorts via walkways and a free tram. This makes exploring the south end of the Strip incredibly easy and comfortable. To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do near Excalibur Las Vegas. From must-see attractions and family-friendly shows to the best places to eat, this is your guide to conquering the kingdom.
Key Takeaways
- Leverage Your Location: Excalibur’s south Strip position is its superpower. Use the connected walkways and free tram to explore neighboring resorts like Luxor and New York-New York without ever needing a cab.
- Find Options for Every Occasion: The area is packed with choices for any budget or group. You can grab a quick bite at a food court, see a family-friendly dinner show, or splurge on an upscale meal, all within a short walk.
- Balance Your Budget with Free Fun: Make your money go further by enjoying iconic free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and Conservatory. Signing up for hotel loyalty programs can also unlock discounts, freeing up cash for a special tour or show.
What’s Within Walking Distance of Excalibur?
One of the best parts about staying at Excalibur is its prime location on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip. You’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the most famous sights in the city without ever needing to hail a cab. The surrounding area is incredibly walkable, with a mix of resorts, attractions, and free entertainment just a short stroll away. You can easily spend a full day just wandering between the neighboring hotels, each with its own unique theme and energy. From the Egyptian-themed Luxor to the metropolitan vibe of New York-New York, there’s a lot to see just by foot.
While walking is a fantastic way to see the sights right outside your door, remember that the Strip is longer than it looks, and the desert heat can be draining. For a comfortable and comprehensive look at all the city’s highlights, from Fremont Street to the Bellagio, consider a guided excursion like The Famous Las Vegas Tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings and see the iconic landmarks without wearing out your walking shoes on day one, saving your energy for exploring the spots that catch your eye.
Walk to These Iconic Strip Attractions
From Excalibur’s castle walls, you’re just steps away from some of Vegas’s most recognizable attractions. Head south into the Luxor pyramid to discover the Shark Reef Aquarium, an underwater oasis in the middle of the desert. Walk across the bridge to New York-New York to ride the Big Apple Coaster or grab a slice of pizza in its replica Greenwich Village. A bit further north, you’ll find Park MGM, home to the Dolby Live theater and Eataly, a vibrant Italian food hall. These spots are all close enough that you can easily hop from one to the next, creating your own mini-tour of the neighborhood.
Explore Connected Resorts via Tram & Walkways
Las Vegas planners knew the desert sun could be intense, so they made getting around easy. Excalibur is connected to its sister MGM properties, Luxor and Mandalay Bay, by both indoor walkways and a free tram. This is a game-changer for getting around comfortably. You can ride the tram all the way to Mandalay Bay to check out its beach complex and high-end restaurants or take a quick trip next door to Luxor to see its unique pyramid interior. These connections make it feel like you’re staying in one massive resort with three different themes, giving you more to explore without breaking a sweat.
Find Fun and Free Attractions Nearby
You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time near Excalibur. Some of the best shows in Vegas are completely free. A leisurely 15- to 20-minute walk will bring you to the world-famous Fountains of Bellagio, a stunning spectacle of water, light, and music. While you’re there, step inside to experience the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a breathtaking indoor garden that changes with the seasons. It’s a peaceful and beautiful escape from the casino floor. You can also enjoy the simple pleasure of people-watching or admiring the incredible architecture of each resort as you stroll down the Strip.
Where Should You Eat Near Excalibur? (For Every Budget)
Exploring the Strip can work up a serious appetite. Luckily, the area around Excalibur is packed with dining options for every taste and price point. Whether you need to refuel quickly between attractions or you’re planning a special night out, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for just a short walk away. From food court favorites to world-class restaurants, this part of Vegas has it all.
Grab a Quick, Budget-Friendly Bite
When you’re on the go and want to save your cash for the casinos or a show, you don’t have to settle. The south end of the Strip has plenty of spots for a satisfying meal without a hefty price tag. Keep an eye out for local Las Vegas dining deals, which can include discounts on your order or specials like $10 mini-sub bundles. These quick-service spots are perfect for a casual lunch or a late-night bite.
Sit Down for a Mid-Range Meal
If you want to take a break from the hustle for a relaxed, sit-down meal, you have some fantastic mid-range options. These places strike the perfect balance between a casual atmosphere and high-quality food, giving you a great dining experience that won’t drain your wallet. You can find excellent restaurants near Excalibur serving everything from classic American fare to delicious steak and seafood. It’s the ideal choice for a nice dinner before a show.
Splurge on an Upscale Dining Experience
Ready to treat yourself? Las Vegas is famous for its incredible fine dining scene. This is your chance to experience a meal crafted by a celebrity chef or enjoy a lavish dinner in a stunning setting. The city is home to some of the world’s most renowned upscale dining options, where the service is as impeccable as the food. A splurge-worthy meal is a quintessential Vegas experience, perfect for a special occasion.
Hit the Buffet at Excalibur and Others Nearby
You can’t talk about food in Las Vegas without mentioning the buffets. It’s a classic for a reason—you get to sample a huge variety of dishes for one set price. The Excalibur Buffet, located right inside the hotel on the Castle Walk Level, is a popular and convenient choice. It offers a massive selection that caters to every craving, from carving stations to decadent desserts. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to feed the whole group.
What Is There for Kids to Do Near Excalibur?
If you’re wondering how to keep the kids entertained in Las Vegas, you’re in luck. The south end of the Strip, particularly around Excalibur, is packed with family-friendly activities. The hotel’s castle theme is a great start, but the fun extends far beyond its medieval walls. From high-energy arcades and incredible animal encounters to massive pools and dinner shows, you’ll find plenty to fill your itinerary.
Many of the best kid-friendly spots are either inside Excalibur or just a short walk or tram ride away at neighboring resorts like Luxor and Mandalay Bay. This makes it easy to hop from one adventure to the next without dealing with taxis or long treks in the desert heat. Whether your kids want to play games, see sharks, splash in a pool, or watch knights joust, you can plan a memorable family trip without ever leaving the neighborhood.
Play at Arcades and Interactive Attractions
When the kids need to burn off some energy, head down to the Fun Dungeon right inside Excalibur. It’s one of the biggest and best arcades on the Strip, with more than 200 games to choose from. You’ll find everything from classic carnival midway games to the latest video and redemption games. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon, especially when you need a break from the sun. The lively, colorful atmosphere is a huge hit with kids and teens, offering a classic arcade experience that feels like a step back in time.
Visit Nearby Aquariums and Museums
For an unforgettable underwater adventure, take the free tram from Excalibur to Mandalay Bay to see the Shark Reef Aquarium. This incredible attraction is home to more than 2,000 animals, including sharks, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, and a Komodo dragon. Walking through the underwater tunnel as sea creatures swim overhead is a truly mesmerizing experience for all ages. It’s an amazing educational opportunity that feels more like an adventure than a museum, giving your family a close-up look at the wonders of the ocean right in the middle of the desert.
Splash Around at Pools and Water Slides
You don’t have to leave the hotel for some fun in the sun. The Excalibur’s pool area is a destination in itself, featuring four different pools spread across a massive deck. The whole family can relax in a cabana, take a dip to cool off, or grab a bite at the poolside cafe. The main attraction for kids is the twisting water slide, which provides hours of entertainment. It’s a fantastic amenity that’s included with your stay, making it easy to plan a relaxing pool day without any extra hassle or expense.
Catch a Family-Friendly Show
For a dinner experience your kids will talk about for years, get tickets to the Tournament of Kings. This dinner show, performed right inside Excalibur, transports you to the age of King Arthur. You’ll feast on a three-course meal (eaten with your hands, of course) while cheering on knights as they joust on horseback. With sword fights, dancing, and pyrotechnics, it’s a loud, exciting, and interactive show that captivates audiences of all ages. It’s a perfect way to combine dinner and entertainment into one unforgettable medieval event.
Find Shows and Nightlife Near Excalibur
When the sun goes down, Las Vegas truly comes alive, and the area around Excalibur is no exception. You’re perfectly positioned to catch a world-class show, grab a drink at a quirky bar, or even escape the city lights for a completely different kind of adventure. Whether you want to stay within the castle walls or venture out for a laugh, you have plenty of options just a short walk away. The south end of the Strip is packed with entertainment, from medieval dinner shows to stand-up comedy and tribute bands that will have you singing along all night. You can easily fill every evening with something new without ever needing a taxi. But if the constant energy of the Strip starts to feel a bit overwhelming, remember that some of the most memorable Vegas experiences happen just beyond the city limits. You can easily trade the crowds for the stunning, quiet beauty of the desert with a private tour designed just for you. It’s a fantastic way to balance the high-octane fun of the Strip with the serene majesty of places like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire, giving you a truly well-rounded Las Vegas vacation.
See a Show Right at Excalibur
You don’t even have to leave the hotel to find one of Vegas’s most unique shows. At Tournament of Kings, you’ll travel back to the age of King Arthur for a dinner show unlike any other. It’s a full-on medieval spectacle where you’ll feast on a three-course meal (with your hands, of course) while watching knights on horseback joust in a 360-degree theater. The story is filled with sword fights, pyrotechnics, and even a dragon, making it a fun and immersive experience for all ages. It’s the perfect way to kick off an evening without having to worry about transportation or walking far from your room.
Laugh at a Nearby Comedy or Tribute Show
If you’re in the mood for a laugh, the Mac King Comedy Magic Show is a classic afternoon choice right next door at the Excalibur. His act is a charming blend of quirky magic tricks, clean comedy, and audience participation, featuring everything from disappearing goldfish to a guinea pig. For a musical night out, head over to see The Australian Bee Gees. This tribute show is a high-energy celebration of the iconic band’s greatest hits. It’s a fantastic production that will have you on your feet, dancing and singing along to classics like “Stayin’ Alive” and “How Deep Is Your Love.”
Grab a Drink at a Bar or Lounge
For a nightlife experience with a twist, check out Dick’s Last Resort inside the Excalibur. This isn’t your typical bar—it’s famous for its intentionally sarcastic and hilariously rude staff who serve up messy food and strong drinks with a side of sass. You’ll get a paper hat with a hand-written insult on it and a playfully obnoxious server who will keep you laughing all night. Just be sure to bring a good sense of humor, as this spot is all about not taking things too seriously. It’s a great place to let loose and have some fun before heading out for the night.
Go Off-Strip with Another Side Of Las Vegas Tours
Ready for a change of pace from the typical Vegas nightlife? If you want an adventure that’s truly unforgettable, consider an evening or daytime trip away from the Strip. You can trade the casino floor for the breathtaking landscapes of the Mojave Desert. Imagine watching the sunset over the fiery red rock formations on a Valley of Fire tour or seeing the stars shine brightly away from the city lights. It’s a perfect way to experience the natural beauty that surrounds Las Vegas and create memories that go beyond the glitz and glamour.
How Can You Save Money Near Excalibur?
A trip to Las Vegas doesn’t have to drain your bank account. While the city is known for its glitz and high-roller tables, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area around Excalibur without overspending. A little bit of planning goes a long way. By being smart about where your money goes, you can free up your budget for the experiences that matter most, whether that’s a five-star meal or an unforgettable day trip. Here are a few practical strategies for saving money on and around the Strip.
Use Your Hotel Perks and Loyalty Points
Your first stop for savings should be the hotel itself. If you’re staying at Excalibur or another MGM property, make sure you’re signed up for their loyalty program, MGM Rewards. These programs are free to join and can offer immediate benefits like discounted room rates, show tickets, and credits for food and drinks. Many hotels also offer fabulous deals that include daily dining credits or free access to amenities like the spa and pool. Before you book anything, check your hotel’s website for special offers. Don’t be shy about asking the concierge what perks are available to you as a guest—you might be surprised by the hidden savings.
Look for Discount Cards and 2-for-1 Deals
For visitors planning to see and do a lot, a discount card can be a fantastic investment. A service like the Vegas Bite Card offers savings of up to 50% on a wide range of activities, including shows, attractions, tours, and restaurants all over the city. You typically pay a small fee for the card itself and then unlock discounts for the duration of your trip. You can also find 2-for-1 coupons and other deals in local visitor magazines or by searching online before you go. These are especially great for casual meals, happy hours, and show tickets, effectively cutting your costs in half.
Book Combo Packages and Special Offers
Bundling your activities is another great way to save. Many restaurants and attractions near Excalibur offer combo deals, like a dinner-and-a-show package or a multi-attraction pass. Keep an eye out for special Las Vegas dining deals online, which can range from a percentage off your total bill to a free appetizer or dessert. This strategy also applies to bigger excursions. Instead of booking transportation, tickets, and meals separately for a day trip, a tour package often includes everything for one price. This not only saves you money but also takes the stress out of planning every little detail.
Maximize Your Fun with Free Activities
Some of the most iconic Las Vegas experiences don’t cost a thing. You can spend hours just exploring the incredible themed resorts near Excalibur. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at New York-New York, marvel at the pyramid structure of the Luxor, or take a slightly longer stroll to see the famous Fountains of Bellagio. You can also check out attractions like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens or the flamingo habitat at the Flamingo hotel. Balancing your itinerary with these free activities allows you to save your budget for a truly special experience, like creating a custom tour to see the natural beauty just outside the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a car if I’m staying at Excalibur? For exploring the south and central Strip, you can absolutely get by without a car. Excalibur is connected to Luxor and Mandalay Bay by a free tram and indoor walkways, which makes getting around that whole complex incredibly easy. Many other famous resorts like New York-New York, Park MGM, and even the Bellagio are within a reasonable walking distance. A car only becomes necessary if you plan to venture far off-Strip on your own.
Is Excalibur a good choice for a family vacation? Yes, it’s a fantastic base for a family trip. The hotel itself has a huge arcade called the Fun Dungeon and a pool area with a water slide that kids love. You can also see the Tournament of Kings dinner show right inside the hotel. Plus, you’re just a quick tram ride away from the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, which is a huge hit with visitors of all ages.
What’s the best way to see famous Vegas spots that are too far to walk to, like Fremont Street? While walking is great for the immediate area, the Strip is very long, and places like the downtown Fremont Street Experience are not walkable from Excalibur. Instead of dealing with rideshares or public transit, a guided city tour is a great option. It handles all the transportation for you, so you can see all the iconic landmarks in one comfortable trip without wasting time or energy.
Can I find affordable food options near Excalibur? Definitely. You don’t have to spend a fortune on every meal. The area has plenty of quick-service spots and food courts perfect for a fast and budget-friendly bite. You can also find many casual, sit-down restaurants that offer a great meal without the fine-dining price tag. And of course, the Excalibur Buffet is always a solid choice for getting a lot of variety for a set price.
Are there any free attractions I can walk to from the hotel? Yes, some of the best sights are completely free. A 15- to 20-minute walk will get you to the famous Fountains of Bellagio, which is a must-see show of water and light. While you’re there, you can also step inside to see the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Simply strolling through the different themed resorts nearby is also a great way to experience the unique architecture and energy of Vegas without spending a dime.
