Fall into Vegas: Autumn activities for every traveler
From solo escapes and family vacations to group getaways and romantic retreats, discover your ideal Las Vegas stay and experience an autumn to remember with these unique excursions.
By Matt Villano | October 12, 2023 (Updated September 4, 2024)
It’s always a great time to visit Las Vegas, but fall is especially ideal — sports books are buzzing on football weekends and the triple-digit temperatures of summer finally relent. This fall in particular also comes with the added excitement of the Formula One race taking over the Las Vegas Strip yet again. No matter your style — or travel companions — these five itineraries will provide endless entertainment and extraordinary experiences for a successful Vegas vacation.
Group getaway
The city that bills itself as the entertainment capital of the world is set to serve up several new spectacles this fall, including attractions that are particularly perfect for a group of friends. Without question, No. 1 on that list is the Formula One Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix, scheduled for late-November. Twenty professional drivers will race 50 laps on a course that zips straight down Las Vegas Boulevard, along with several highly technical turns. For a change of pace, rent a limo and head to a show at Sphere — or just admire the impressively life-like displays on the LED screens that cover the entire façade of this entertainment venue. Finish off with a visit to The Golden Tiki for a night of authentic Polynesian music and tropical drinks.
Couples trip
Las Vegas is for lovers, and there are plenty of places for lovebirds to enjoy each other’s company when they come to town. The Little Vegas Chapel is a popular spot for vow renewals, with packages that include the option to be married by an Elvis impersonator. Another fun activity for couples is enjoying an indulgent treatment at the immersive Awana Spa at Resorts World Las Vegas. For a romantic dinner to remember, consider one of the many fine dining establishments that make the Vegas foodie scene so unique. Enjoy a dinner for two at Caviar Bar Las Vegas at Resorts World, featuring caviar-focused dishes as well as a la carte and multi-course tastings from Michelin-starred chef Shaun Hergatt.
Solo traveler
Millions of business travelers descend on Vegas every year, and the city has a bevy of options for solo travelers. Upscale food courts are a current trend perfect for lone wolves, with some serving quick bites like pizza and burgers, while others offer more elevated dishes in a casual, low-pressure environment. Hockey games are one of the hottest tickets in town, and single-guest standing-room-only tickets are almost always available — even when the seats are sold out. Another great option for individual travelers: museums. The Punk Rock Museum spotlights punk music history, culture and memorabilia throughout the decades, while the Neon Museum showcases iconic Las Vegas signs through the decades.
Outdoor enthusiasts
Las Vegas is a great jumping off point for outdoor enthusiasts seeking watersports and refuge from the heat. One of the most popular destinations is Lake Las Vegas, a man-made waterway 30 minutes east of the Strip where you can rent everything from kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to Jet Skis and jetpacks. Spend the night at Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa, which also offers guests access to nearby championship golf courses. The largest water playground near Vegas is Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Home to both Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, it’s the perfect place for swimming, kayaking, boating, water skiing and some of the best sports fishing in the country.
Family vacation
In recent years, Las Vegas has become a great spot for family travelers. Welcoming visitors of all ages, the High Roller Las Vegas Strip Observation Wheel stands at 550 feet (168 meters) tall and is currently the largest observation wheel in North America. Each pod holds around 30 people, and it takes 30 minutes to complete one revolution. Along the way, the views of the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding desert are amazing. Kids also love Twilight Zone Mini Golf, a science fiction/horror-themed, glow-in-the-dark attraction. But don’t worry, the vibe is more campy than scary at this 18-hole miniature golf course, complete with a live DJ, trivia and arcade games. Be sure to treat the kiddos to dinner and a show at the wildly fun, family-friendly Rainforest Cafe.
Autumn in Las Vegas sets the stage for a great vacation, no matter what type of getaway you crave. Make the most of the comfortable temperatures and endless activities in the country’s desert playground.
Freelance writer and editor Matt Villano has covered Las Vegas for more than 20 years — he has authored and co-authored 13 guidebooks about the city.
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