One of the best parts about staying at Horseshoe is that you can experience so many different sides of Vegas in a single day. You can start your morning with a coffee and a stroll through a bustling bazaar, spend the afternoon exploring a fascinating museum, and end your night watching a world-famous fountain show—all without leaving the block. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of things to do near Horseshoe Las Vegas. From fine dining and hidden speakeasies to family fun and unique exhibits, we’ll show you how to turn your hotel into the perfect hub for an unforgettable adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Make Horseshoe Your Home Base: Use the hotel’s central location and dedicated Monorail station to your advantage, allowing you to easily walk to iconic spots like the Bellagio Fountains or quickly get to other resorts.
- Find Entertainment for Everyone On-Site: You don’t need to leave the property to have a great time; Horseshoe offers a full experience with magic shows, family-friendly mini-golf, classic steakhouses, and even a hidden speakeasy.
- Balance Strip Sights with Unique Adventures: After enjoying the main attractions, discover a more authentic side of Vegas at nearby local gems or book a private tour to see incredible natural wonders like the Valley of Fire without the crowds.
Getting to Horseshoe & Around the Strip
One of the best things about staying at or visiting Horseshoe is its incredible location. You’re not just on the Strip; you’re in the very heart of it, which makes it the perfect home base for all your adventures. Whether you plan to stick to the main drag or use it as a jumping-off point for a bigger excursion, getting around is surprisingly simple. You can easily explore iconic landmarks on foot, hop on convenient transport to cover more ground, or meet up for a guided tour that shows you a different side of Vegas.
Enjoy a Prime Spot on the Strip
Horseshoe Las Vegas sits right in the middle of the action on the Las Vegas Strip, perfectly positioned between the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and The Cromwell. This prime real estate means you can step outside and be instantly surrounded by the city’s vibrant energy. You’re not just close to things to do—you’re right in the thick of them. Some of the most famous casinos, shows, and restaurants are your neighbors. This central spot saves you time and money on transportation, allowing you to spend more of your vacation enjoying everything the city has to offer.
How to Get Around
While walking is one of the best ways to experience the Strip, the Las Vegas Monorail is your secret weapon for getting around quickly and avoiding traffic. There’s a station conveniently located right at the Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas, making it incredibly easy to zip up and down the Strip. It’s a fast, safe, and affordable way to get from one end to the other without the hassle of driving or waiting for a ride-share in a busy area. Of course, when your feet need a rest, taxis and ride-sharing services are always available to take you wherever you need to go.
What’s Within Walking Distance
You don’t have to go far to find amazing things to do. Just across the street, you can catch the spectacular, free Fountains of Bellagio show. For a change of scenery, use the connected walkway to wander over to Paris Las Vegas and admire its incredible French-themed decor. If you’re looking for a more local vibe, take a short 10-minute walk behind Horseshoe to Ellis Island Casino for cheaper gambling, great craft beer from its on-site brewery, and lively karaoke. Seeing all these spots is easy on your own, or you can see them as part of The Famous Las Vegas Tour to get a local’s perspective.
Experience the Shows at Horseshoe
Horseshoe Las Vegas is a hub for classic Vegas entertainment, offering a solid lineup of shows that don’t require a superstar budget. The intimate theaters make for a great viewing experience no matter where you sit. It’s the perfect place to kick off a night on the Strip with some mind-bending magic, comedy, or rock and roll. After seeing the sights on The Famous Las Vegas Tour, settling in for a show is a fantastic way to experience the city’s legendary nightlife.
See a Magic or Mind-Reading Show
Ready to have your mind read? The Magic Attic at Horseshoe is home to Frederic Da Silva’s Paranormal Mind Reading Magic, a show that will leave you questioning reality. He guesses names, reveals personal details, and performs illusions that feel impossibly real. The intimate setting puts you close to the action, making the experience even more intense. It’s a classic Vegas magic show with a modern, psychological twist perfect for a fun night out.
Watch a Comedy or Theater Production
If you grew up with a certain boy wizard, you can’t miss Potted Potter. This hilarious show condenses all seven Harry Potter books into a whirlwind 70-minute parody. Two actors take on every character, from Harry to Dobby, with hilarious results. You don’t have to be a die-hard Potterhead to appreciate the fast-paced, witty humor. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly option that offers a welcome break from the casino floor and a dose of pure, silly fun.
Find Live Entertainment
Beyond the headlining acts, Horseshoe always has something going on. The casino floor and its various bars often feature live musicians or DJs that create a vibrant atmosphere. It’s worth checking the official entertainment schedule before you go, as you might stumble upon a unique act or a limited-run show. This is part of the fun of Vegas—finding those unexpected moments of entertainment while you explore the casino and its surroundings.
Explore Adult Shows and Nightlife
For those seeking something with a bit more edge, Horseshoe delivers. The venue is home to X ROCKS, a high-energy show that blends rock and roll anthems with sultry burlesque performances. It’s a loud, fast-paced, and unapologetically adult production that’s perfect for kicking off a wild night in Vegas. The show combines incredible dancing with a killer soundtrack, creating a party-like atmosphere from start to finish. It’s a great choice for groups ready to embrace the wilder side of Vegas.
Grab a Bite or a Drink
Exploring the area around Horseshoe can work up an appetite. Luckily, you’re surrounded by an incredible range of places to eat and drink, whether you’re planning a fancy dinner, grabbing a quick lunch, or looking for a unique cocktail experience. From classic steakhouses to hidden speakeasies and budget-friendly gems, there’s something to satisfy every craving and fit any schedule. Let’s walk through some of the best spots to refuel during your Las Vegas adventure.
Indulge in Fine Dining
When you’re ready for a memorable meal, Jack Binion’s Steak is the place to go. It’s a classic steakhouse experience with a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for celebrating a special occasion. The menu is exactly what you’d hope for, with perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts. If you’re looking for something with a bit more energy, check out Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Sports Kitchen. It’s a fun, high-energy spot where you can enjoy bold American food while surrounded by big-screen TVs playing all the latest games. It’s a great way to cap off an incredible day, especially after an unforgettable trip like one of our private Grand Canyon tours.
Try Casual Spots and Food Halls
Sometimes you just need a delicious, no-fuss meal, and the Horseshoe Food Hall is the perfect solution. It’s a fantastic option when you’re with a group that can’t agree on one type of food or when you want to try a little bit of everything. You can find everything from pizza and gourmet subs to hot dogs and flavorful Asian dishes all under one roof. The casual setting makes it easy to pop in for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner without needing a reservation. It’s an ideal pit stop to recharge between exploring the Strip’s attractions or before heading out for a show.
Discover Hidden Bars and Speakeasies
For a truly unique drinking experience, you have to find The Lock Speakeasy. Tucked away inside the Cabinet of Curiosities, this hidden gem offers an intimate and mysterious vibe that feels worlds away from the bustling casino floor. There’s no menu here; instead, the talented bartenders create a custom cocktail just for you. They’ll ask about your favorite flavors, your mood, or even your zodiac sign to craft a one-of-a-kind drink. It’s a memorable adventure for your taste buds, much like how our custom tours create a personalized adventure for you. This is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a well-made cocktail.
Find Quick Bites and Coffee
When you’re on the go, you need options that are fast, easy, and delicious. Inside the hotel, Nosh Deli is great for a made-to-order sandwich, while Lavazza is your spot for a quality coffee, smoothie, or pastry to start your day. If you step just outside to the Grand Bazaar Shops, your options expand even more. You can grab some amazing Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken or enjoy a fresh and flavorful gyro bowl from Istanbul Mediterranean. These spots are perfect for fueling up before heading out on a day trip to see the incredible sights on one of our Hoover Dam tours.
Eat Well on a Budget
You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time eating and drinking in Vegas. For a more local, budget-friendly experience, walk over to Ellis Island Casino & Brewery. It’s known for its great value, better odds, and fantastic house-brewed beers that start at just $2.50. It’s a lively spot with a friendly, old-school Vegas atmosphere. Another solid choice is the nearby Stage Door Casino, a classic dive bar famous for its incredibly cheap beer and laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to relax with a drink, play some video poker, and see a side of the city that feels a little more real.
What to Do Inside Horseshoe
You don’t even have to leave the building to find some of the best entertainment on the Strip. Horseshoe Las Vegas is packed with a surprising variety of activities that go way beyond the casino floor. Whether you’re looking to test your luck, find a unique souvenir, see a fascinating exhibit, or just have some good old-fashioned fun with the family, you can do it all under one roof.
It’s the perfect home base because you can easily mix classic Vegas experiences with unexpected adventures. Spend an hour playing the slots, then go explore a prehistoric safari or play a round of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. The convenience of having so many options just an elevator ride away from your room is a huge plus. It’s a great way to fill the gaps in your itinerary or escape the desert heat for an afternoon.
Try Your Luck at the Casino
If you’re in Vegas, you have to spend at least a little time in a casino. The one at Horseshoe has a classic, welcoming vibe with all the table games and slot machines you could want. What makes it stand out is that it’s one of the few places on the Strip where you can still play live keno. It’s a lottery-style game that’s super easy to learn and offers a fun, low-stakes way to try for a big win while you relax with a drink. The casino floor is spacious and full of energy, making it a great place to soak up the quintessential Vegas atmosphere.
Shop at the Grand Bazaar Shops
Right at the front of the hotel, facing the Strip, you’ll find the Grand Bazaar Shops. This isn’t your typical indoor mall; it’s an open-air marketplace with a vibrant, bustling feel. You can wander through dozens of unique boutiques, retail stores, and food stalls. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for souvenirs, grab a quick and delicious bite, or just enjoy some people-watching. The Grand Bazaar Shops offer a really dynamic shopping experience with everything from jewelry and apparel to sweet treats and savory snacks, all with an exciting street-market atmosphere.
Visit an Interactive Museum or Exhibit
For something completely different, check out one of Horseshoe’s intriguing exhibits. The REAL BODIES exhibit offers a fascinating and surprisingly intimate look inside the human body. Using real, preserved human specimens, it explores our complex anatomy and physiology in a way you’ve never seen before. It’s a thought-provoking and educational experience that provides a quiet, museum-like break from the high energy of the Strip. If you’re curious and looking for an attraction that will stick with you long after you leave, this is a must-see.
Find Family-Friendly Fun
Vegas isn’t just for adults, and Horseshoe has some fantastic options if you’re traveling with family or just want to feel like a kid again. You can play a round at Twilight Zone by Monster Mini Golf, an 18-hole course that’s completely glow-in-the-dark. The quirky, sci-fi theme is a blast, and it’s a fun challenge for all ages. The same space also features arcade games and even a small bowling alley, making it a one-stop shop for some lighthearted, competitive fun away from the casino floor.
Have an Indoor Adventure
Escape the desert heat and step back in time at the Dino Safari. This walk-through adventure is perfect for families and anyone who loves dinosaurs. You’ll come face-to-face with life-size, animatronic dinosaurs from different periods, making for some incredible photo ops. The experience is designed to feel like a real safari, and there are even interactive elements where you can dig for fossils. It’s an engaging and entertaining way to spend an hour, offering a fun, educational adventure right inside the hotel.
What to Do Near Horseshoe
Horseshoe’s central location puts you right in the middle of the action, with some of the Strip’s most iconic sights just steps away. Whether you want to see a world-famous show, find the perfect photo op, or discover a local secret, you don’t have to wander far. The area is incredibly walkable, and you can easily spend a full day exploring the neighboring resorts and attractions without ever needing a car. From dazzling free entertainment to unique cultural exhibits, there’s a little something for every type of traveler right outside your door.
Enjoy Free Sights and Activities
One of the best free shows in the world is happening right across the street. You can’t miss the Fountains of Bellagio, a spectacular display of water, music, and light. The shows run every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes in the evening, so you’ll have plenty of chances to catch them. For an even better view, grab a spot on the pedestrian bridge connecting Horseshoe to Bellagio. Many of the restaurants in the area also offer patio seating with a direct view of the fountains, making for a memorable dinner backdrop. It’s a classic Vegas experience that never gets old.
Find the Best Photo Ops
For some of the most picture-perfect moments on the Strip, head next door to Paris Las Vegas, which is connected to Horseshoe by an interior walkway. The resort’s French-themed architecture is a spectacle in itself, but the main attraction is the half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower. You can take incredible photos from the ground or ride the elevator up to the viewing deck for a stunning 360-degree view of the city. It’s especially beautiful at night when the Strip is all lit up. Afterward, you can continue the Parisian theme with a visit to Napoleon’s Lounge for its fun dueling piano bar.
Uncover Local Hidden Gems
If you’re ready for a break from the polished casino floors and want a taste of old-school Vegas, find the Stage Door Casino. Tucked away just behind the Cromwell, this classic dive bar is a true hidden gem. It’s a no-frills spot that’s all about cheap drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. You can find deals like $1 beers and play some video poker without the crowds of the larger resorts. It’s the perfect place to experience a more authentic side of the city and chat with locals and seasoned Vegas visitors who know where to find the best deals.
Check Out Cultural Attractions
When you need a change of pace from the usual entertainment, check out one of the unique exhibits inside Horseshoe. The Real Bodies exhibit offers a fascinating and thought-provoking look inside the human body. Using real, preserved human specimens, the displays explore everything from the nervous system to the digestive tract in incredible detail. It’s a powerful and educational experience that’s completely different from anything else you’ll find on the Strip. If you’re curious about anatomy and science, this is a must-see attraction that will stick with you long after you leave.
Take a Guided Tour of the Area
While the Las Vegas Monorail has a convenient station at Horseshoe for exploring the Strip, the real magic happens when you venture beyond the city lights. To see the incredible natural landscapes surrounding Las Vegas, consider a private tour. You can escape the crowds and see breathtaking sights like the fiery red rock formations in the Valley of Fire or the massive engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam. Booking a custom tour allows you to create a personalized itinerary, ensuring you see exactly what you want at your own pace for a truly unforgettable adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Horseshoe a good spot for a family trip? Absolutely. While Vegas has its adult side, Horseshoe offers some great all-ages activities right inside the hotel. You can play a round of glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, see the hilarious Potted Potter parody show, or walk through the Dino Safari exhibit. Its central location also makes it easy to get to other family-friendly attractions on the Strip.
I’m trying to save money. What are some budget-friendly options near Horseshoe? You don’t have to spend a lot to have a good time. The Fountains of Bellagio show across the street is completely free and always impressive. For cheap food and drinks with a local vibe, take a short walk behind the hotel to Ellis Island Casino & Brewery or the Stage Door Casino, where you can find great deals that are hard to beat on the Strip.
What’s the most efficient way to get around the Strip from Horseshoe? Because you’re in the middle of everything, walking is your best bet for exploring nearby resorts like Paris and Bellagio. For longer distances, the Las Vegas Monorail is your secret weapon. There’s a station connected directly to Horseshoe, which lets you zip up and down the Strip quickly without dealing with traffic or surge pricing on ride-shares.
I’m looking for something more unique than just casinos. What does the area offer? The area is full of unique experiences. For a memorable drink, find The Lock Speakeasy, a hidden bar where bartenders create a custom cocktail based on your personal tastes. If you want a break from the noise, the REAL BODIES exhibit offers a fascinating, museum-quality look into human anatomy that is completely different from anything else on the Strip.
How can I see sights like the Hoover Dam or Valley of Fire if I’m staying on the Strip? Getting out to see the natural wonders surrounding Las Vegas is a fantastic idea. While you could rent a car, the easiest and most relaxing way to do it is with a private tour. A guided tour handles all the driving and planning, so you can just sit back and enjoy the incredible scenery without any of the logistical stress.
