Here is our guide on the best things to do at the Venetian.
The Venetian is still one of my favorite hotels in Las Vegas. Even though visitors are all about the shiniest or biggest new hotel on the Strip, the Venetian has maintained a classic charm we love.
They have a ton of fun things to do, eat, and it’s the prettiest casino hotel to photograph. Plus, parking is free for locals for 3 hours.
A big thank you to Grand Canal Shoppes and Venetian for hosting some of our meals and experiences. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: September 21, 2024
15 Best Things to Do at the Venetian Las Vegas
1. Gondola Ride (Indoor & Outdoor) →
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The Gondola Ride at The Venetian is an iconic Vegas activity. Out of all the touristy activities, it’s one that we’ve repeated (5x!) and recommend for visitors.
There are two separate rides: an indoor ride and an outdoor ride. After having done both, we prefer the outdoor ride (as long as it’s not blistering hot outside). You also get serenaded on both.
Local Tip: When it gets busy, tickets aren’t always available. If you’re looking for specific time slots, it’s best to book a ticket ahead of time.
See More: The Venetian Gondola Ride in Las Vegas – What You Need to Know
2. Paniq Room Escape Room & Lounge →
3325 S Las Vegas Blvd Grand Canal Shoppes Level 2M, 89109, map
We’ve done over 15 escape rooms in Las Vegas, and there are only two located on the Strip. PanIQ Room is one of them and is located inside the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian.
They have 3rd generation (higher tech) escape rooms with fun reveals. On top of that, there is a lounge where you can get drinks while you wait.
We did the Atlantis room and even bounded as Little Mermaid characters. We also checked out their Time Machine room. If you want to see how it compares to other escape rooms, check out our Vegas escape rooms post linked below.
Local Tip: Use code ‘localadventurer’ for 10% off your booking!
See More: Best Escape Rooms in Las Vegas
3. Atomic Saloon Show →
3327 South Las Vegas Blvd Level 2, 89109, map
We’ve seen all the Spiegelworld shows, and Atomic Saloon is our favorite. As you enter, you’re transported to a funky Wild West saloon.
If you don’t like raunchy humor or get easily offended, this isn’t the show for you.
The show acts had us laughing so hard. Mix in amazing acrobatics and strong drinks, and you have a recipe for a great time. We especially love it when Heidi is the host and love the energy she brings.
Learn more about the show here, see the reel, and get tickets here.
Local Tip: If you’re having dinner at any restaurant before the show, just let them know you have a show to catch so they can get you out in time.
See More: 9 Las Vegas Shows You Can’t Miss
4. Flight Club Social Darts
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd #2720, 89109, map
Flight Club is a lot of fun! There are 20 semi-private playing areas and you don’t have to be versed in darts to play. The games are all run electronically and the screens give you instructions on how the games work. Plus they serve delicious food and drinks to keep you well nourished.
We celebrated Jacob’s 40th birthday here and everyone loved it.
Local Tip: Take advantage of their Happy Hour specials every Monday to Friday from 4-6 PM.
5. Minus 5 Ice Bar
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd #2140, 89109, map
Cozy up and get a drink at the Minus5 Ice Bar where everything around you is covered in ice and your drinks are served in glasses made of ice. It’s the perfect escape from the Vegas heat.
This is our favorite location so far with icescapes of penguins, polar bears, and even a Star Wars section. They also refresh the rooms a couple of times a year sometimes making big changes and other times just filling in spots that have melted over time.
When we went, there were times it was empty, and there were times it was packed. Most people stayed for a drink and some photo opps, so the flow was sporadic.
They provide a jacket, hat, and gloves to keep you warm, but proper shoes are your responsibility. Read our tips below.
Local Tip: Here are some things to keep in mind.
- Save money by pre-buying drinks when you get your ticket.
- Use the coasters. One of my drinks slid right off the table.
- Wear close-toed shoes. Like an idiot, I wore sandals thinking I could make it. My feet were pretty cold from the get-go, but after I spilled the drink on myself (rookie move), I was not enjoying myself anymore. They were nice enough to replace my drink for me, but my toes were not having it. Just wear the closed-toed shoes, yeah?
See More: 15 Unique Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Las Vegas
6. Sandbox VR
3377 Las Vegas Blvd S #2235, 89109, map
We’ve tried a handful of different VR experiences, and this takes it to the next level. It feels very immersive.
You and your team of up to 6 people are in a room to freely move around. Your body is tracked by the motion sensors, and you work together to accomplish goals.
They recommend maxing out the number of people for each experience to increase your chances of success.
In the end, it’s fun to watch the trailer that they create for your experience. It switches between the footage of you in real life to what you’re doing in VR.
Local Tip: Depending on the experience you choose, it can be a workout. Dress comfortably. A long dress was not the best choice, but it worked out okay. In the VR, my legs were constantly moving because of the dress movement.
See More: 15 Unique Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Las Vegas
7. Enjoy Vegas’ Best Steak at CUT
3325 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
We found our favorite steak in Las Vegas at CUT by Wolfgang Puck. They sell a 50oz A5 Japanese Wagyu Steak for $800, perfect for sharing. We even compared it to an American Wagyu Porterhouse and an Australian Wagyu Tomahawk, which were both good, but the Japanese Wagyu stood miles above the other two.
They also have a delicious raw bar (try the Uni or Wagyu Crispy Rice) and a robust cocktail menu. And don’t forget to try their sides too. Our faves are the Kung Pao Cauliflower, Mac & Cheese, and Onion Rings.
Local Tip: $800 is steep for steak, but it’s the only location in Vegas where you can get this grade of Wagyu in steak form. The few places that carry it charge roughly $65/oz, so if you were to buy 50 oz, it would be $3250.
8. See Musical Artists or Comedians at the Venetian Theatre →
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
There is a steady stream of guests that come perform at the Venetian, whether it’s your favorite musical act or comedian. We saw Kelly Clarkson perform a few years ago. Check out this link to check out upcoming artists and performances.
Local Tip: The Summit Showroom is another spot that brings different shows into the Venetian. We saw FreeStyle Love Supreme twice and absolutely loved it.
9. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste. 2001, 89109, map
This was one of those cheesy experiences we wanted to try, and we ended up having way more fun than we expected. Some of them looked so real, I was afraid they would come alive.
It’s always fun playing tourist at home. I’m not sure I would put it at the top of my list of things to do if it was my first visit to Vegas, but maybe if it was my third or fourth.
It’s your chance to take a bunch of photos with celebs without actually bothering them IRL. Get tickets here.
Local Tip: They also have a Marvel 4D show.
See More: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Las Vegas
10. Enjoy Upscale Hot Pot at X-Pot
3327 S Las Vegas Blvd Suite 2884, 89109, map
If you love hot pot, X-Pot takes it to the next level. My favorite was the chicken broth with the Wagyu feast. Don’t forget the drinks – so good! You even have robot servers assisting the human servers.
Local Tip: It gets busy, especially on weekends, so be sure to make a reservation.
11. Streetmosphere
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
This is one of the top free activities to do in Las Vegas. Head to St. Mark’s Square on the weekends to catch a free 15-minute show. You’ll see a rotation of performers sing, play instruments, and dance.
Performances run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12 PM to 7:30 PM.
Local Tip: Get a table at Brera Osteria or Mercato Della Pescheria for dinner and a show.
See More: 25 Free Things to Do in Las Vegas
12. Photo Ops in Front and at the Red Corridor
36.1221761,-115.1710975, map
The Venetian is one of our favorite photo spots in Las Vegas. Not only do you get iconic moments like the Gondola Ride, but the front outdoor area is so picturesque. There’s a bridge to shoot at and corridors too.
If you’re shooting with a photographer, you need a permit, but if it’s casual, you can definitely snap a few photos without being noticed.
Local Tip: Early mornings will be the least crowded!
13. Tao →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
TAO Nightclub is still one of the popular clubs on the strip. It’s been around for over a decade and often hosts big DJs and artists. We’ve heard the food is good too and they get some of the freshest fish on the strip, but haven’t had a chance to get to it yet.
Local Tip: Check their events calender to find out who will be there.
14. Love Sculpture
3325 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The LOVE sculpture in the Waterfall Atrium is a popular photo spot. Created by artist Laura Kimpton, the giant red letters are 12 feet tall and span 36 feet across. We saw one of her other pieces in Reno too!
Local Tip: Make sure you have a wide-angle lens to capture the whole thing. Also, ever since pandemic, they put up signs that you’re no longer able to stand in the sculpture.
See More: 25 Best Las Vegas Photo Spots with Tips from a Local
15. Shop at the Grand Canal Shoppes
3377 Las Vegas Blvd S, 89109, map
There are a ton of shops at the Grand Canal Shoppes. We love wandering under the painted skies and along the beautiful canals.
When we need to buy gifts, we like to pick up chocolates from ROYCE. So soft and yummy.
Bonus: The Wishing Tree
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The Wishing Tree is a 20-foot olive tree sculpture with brass leaves and hidden glass birds. It’s a fun photo spot and has an AR experience. Just scan the QR code and speak your wish into an Instagram filter and see what happens.
Map of the Best Things to Do at the Venetian Vegas
Best Restaurants in VENETIAN Las Vegas
BRERA OSTERIA (ITALIAN, PIZZA, 💰💰💰)
Delicious pizza and pastas. There’s a great view of St. Mark’s Square.
CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
Go with some friends and try the 50oz Bone In Dry Aged A5 Japanese Wagyu Steak.
GRAND LUX CAFE (AMERICAN, 💰💰)
This was the big surprise on our staycation. Not only is it one of the few affordable places to eat on the Strip, but it’s open till midnight, and all the food we tried was good. We kept coming back here at random hours of the day.
MATTEO’S RISORANTE ITALIANO (ITALIAN, 💰💰💰)
Spectacular hand made pasta. Don’t miss the Mandilli Di Seta. It’s one of my favorite pasta dishes in Vegas.
MERCATO DELLA PESCHERIA (ITALIAN/SEAFOOD, 💰💰💰)
Located right in St. Mark’s Square, you can enjoy your meal while being entertained by Streetmosphere. The food and service are great. The branzino was our favorite, and they make the tiramisu tableside.
MOTT 32 (CHINESE, 💰💰💰💰)
Ate here a couple of years ago but wasn’t impressed, but apparently, we missed out on the Peking duck, which you have to order 24 hours in advance. From what we hear from our food-loving friends in town, that is the highlight.
X-POT (CHINESE, 💰💰💰💰)
Asian food on the strip is next-level terrible, so when you find a place that’s good, it’s a true gem. See more details above.
BOUCHON (FRENCH, 💰💰💰)
It’s hard to go wrong with Thomas Keller’s restaurants. We’ve gone to Bouchon a handful of times and really like his take on chicken and waffles with bacon and chives. Although, lately, I feel like the quality has gone downhill and doesn’t seem up to Chef Keller standards.
ESTIATORIO MILOS (GREEK, 💰💰💰💰)
This is one of the newest restaurants in the Venetian. They have the best prix fixe lunch at only $38, where you get an appetizer, main, and dessert.
All Restaurants at the VENETIAN Grand Canal Shoppes
Here is a list of all the restaurants at the Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes.
- Brera Osteria (Italian, 💰💰)
- Buddy V’s Ristorante (Italian, 💰💰)
- Cafe Pan (Creperies, 💰)
- Canaletto (Italian, 💰💰)
- Canonita (Mexican 💰💰)
- Carlos Bakery (Bakery, 💰💰)
- Casanova (Italian, 💰💰)
- Chipotle (Mexican, 💰)
- Cocolini (Coffee/Tea/Gelato, 💰💰)
- Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Coffee & Tea, 💰)
- CR Creat (Coffee & Sandwiches, 💰💰)
- Curry Pot, Food Court (Indian, 💰💰)
- Fat Tuesday (Bars, 💰💰)
- Fire of Brazil (Barbeque, 💰)
- Flight Club Social Darts (Bars, 💰💰)
- Grimaldi’s (Pizza, 💰💰💰)
- Halo Halo (Filipino, 💰💰)
- Illy Caffe (Coffee & Tea, 💰)
- Johnny Rockets (Burgers, 💰💰)
- LAVO Italian Restaurant (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Le Macaron (Macarons, 💰💰)
- Lobster ME (Seafood, 💰💰)
- Mercato Della Pesheria (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Panda Express (Chinese, 💰)
- Popeyes (Chicken, 💰)
- Prime Burger (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Rockhouse (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Sloan’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ice Cream, 💰)
- Smith & Wollensky (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- Social Life Pizza (Pizza, 💰💰)
- Splash Fresca Bar (Juice Bar, 💰)
- Subway (Sandwiches, 💰)
- Sushi Samba (Asian Fusion, 💰💰💰)
- TAO Asian Bistro & Nightclub (Asian, 💰💰💰)
- Tipsy Robot (Bars, 💰💰)
- Tra Tea (Bubble Tea, 💰💰)
- Trattoria Reggiano (Italian, 💰💰)
- Villa Azur (Supper Clubs, 💰💰💰)
- X-Pot (Chinese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Zeppola Cafe (Bakeries, 💰)
All Restaurants at the VENETIAN Las Vegas
Here is a list of all the restaurants in the Venetian Casino.
- Black Tap (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Bonanno’s (Italian, 💰)
- Bouchon (French, 💰💰💰)
- Bouchon Bakery (Bakery, 💰)
- Cafe Pan (Crepes, 💰)
- Chica (Latin American, 💰💰)
- CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- Delmonico Steakhouse (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- Donutique (Donuts, 💰💰)
- Eat’s Italian (Vegetarian/Italian, 💰💰)
- Electra Cocktail Club (Bar, 💰💰)
- Estiatorio Milos (Greek, 💰💰💰)
- Fatburger (Burger, 💰💰)
- Grand Lux Cafe (American, 💰💰)
- HaSalon (Mediterranean, 💰💰💰)
- Hong Kong Cafe (Noodles, 💰💰)
- JuiceFarm (Juice Bars, 💰💰)
- Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Miznon (Mediterranean, 💰)
- Mott 32 (Chinese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Noodle Asia (Dim Sum, 💰💰)
- Rosina (Cocktail Bar, 💰💰)
- SPRITZ (Southern, 💰💰)
- Starbucks (Coffee, 💰)
- Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill (Tapas, 💰💰💰)
- Tacos & Ritas (Mexican, 💰💰)
- Truth & Tonic (Brunch, 💰💰)
- Wakuda (Japanese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Yardbird Southern Table & Bar (Southern, 💰💰)
The Venetian Happy Hour Deals
The following spots offer happy hour specials. Check out the details here.
- Wakuda (Japanese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Brera Osteria (Italian, 💰💰)
- Estiatorio Milos (Greek, 💰💰💰)
- Flight Club Las Vegas
- Mercato Della Pesheria (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill (Tapas, 💰💰💰)
- Sushi Samba (Asian Fusion, 💰💰💰)
- Canaletto (Italian, 💰💰)
- Rockhouse (Burgers, 💰💰)
Essential Tips
- Parking is free for locals up to 3 hours at The Venetian and Palazzo. The Venetian parking connects you to the center of the Grand Canal Shoppes near the food court, whereas the Palazzo parking takes you to the backside of the shops near X-Pot.
- Visit during the morning and weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Reservations always help for food spots, especially during the weekends.
Best Places to Stay
We’ve stayed at the Venetian or Palazzo 4 times, and it’s one of our favorite places to stay on the strip. The rooms are spacious, and there’s so much to do on their property to fill an entire trip.
On our recent stay, we checked out a Luxury Grand One Bedroom King Suite which was amazing. You get your own bar, and beautiful living room area, and the bathroom is massive.
If you’re looking for other hotel options nearby, check out the map below.
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Find a great deal on Las Vegas hotels.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Book a tour for your visit.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Buy a Las Vegas travel guide.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
- Save money on attractions with Go City.
Have you been to the Venetian? What is your favorite shop or restaurant at the Grand Canal Shoppes?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.