Are you looking for an exciting escape during the cold months? How about a trip to Las Vegas in January?
Whether you’re ready to take on some of the biggest and best casinos in the world, or searching for unique experiences off of The Strip, one thing is certain: Sin City doesn’t disappoint when it comes to excitement.
From iconic landmarks like The Bellagio Fountain to amazing nightclubs and shows, Las Vegas has no shortage of fun activities that never seem to stop. And this city knows how to heat things up even when temperatures dip below freezing elsewhere. After all, it’s one of the USA’s sunny places that keeps the sun up, even in winter.
Things to Book in Las Vegas Before You Leave Home
Few things are more frustrating on vacation than missing out on that amazing hotel or tour because it is sold out. Here are my top things to book in Vegas before your vacation.
🎡 Most Popular Things to Do in Las Vegas:
1. Book A Show – from Cirque du Soleil to David Copperfield & more, hot Vegas shows sell out fast
2. Helicopter Ride over the Grand Canyon and Vegas Strip – my favorite tour
3. Hoover Dam Tour – be blown away by this engineering marvel
4. Skip the Line at the fantastic Mob Museum – my favourite attraction in Vegas
🛏️Where to Stay in Las Vegas
1. The Bellagio – the classic and where I stayed
2. The Venetian – Vegas at its biggest and best
3. Downtowner – hip and great value in downtown Vegas
So if you’re looking for a wild time with plenty of thrills (or perhaps want your toes tapping at a concert by a famous artist), come along for the journey in fabulous Las Vegas – especially during January.
Image by Julian Paefgen from Unsplash
Weather in Las Vegas During January
January in Las Vegas brings some much-needed reprieve from the scorching summer heat. Although it’s a desert, winter temperatures in Vegas don’t tend to dip too far below what would be considered a mild winter in comparison to other desert destinations.
That isn’t to say that you won’t need your cosy layers when visiting in January—temperatures can drop into the 40s at night and barely hit 60 during the day. Despite this, plenty of sunshine and dry conditions usually make it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring Red Rock Canyon Park.
What to Pack for Las Vegas in January
Knowing what to pack is uber important for visiting Las Vegas; you don’t want to be sweating from the heat or shivering from the cold. Depending on your preferred activities, there are some essentials you’ll need to bring along.
Top of the list are t-shirts, some light sweaters, and scarves that can help when the weather gets chilly. These should also be good when the temperatures are at their highest.
Las Vegas is walkable, and The Strip is a major tourist hub, so you’ll need a pair of comfortable shoes to help you get around here. Don’t forget an umbrella as the weather isn’t always predictable.
9 Top Things to Do in Las Vegas in January
Sin City is certainly popular for its money-burning (or money-making, if you’re lucky) exploits. However, there are a lot of things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling, including the following.
1. Visit the Neon Museum
Image by Lyle Hastie from Unsplash
The Neon Museum in Las Vegas is truly a sight to see. It’s basically an amazing open-air exhibit featuring more than 200 signs from legendary hotels, casinos and other businesses that helped to shape the city’s sparkling nightscape. You can’t be in the city of neon lights without stopping by, right?
The museum isn’t just visually stimulating—visitors can also learn about the fascinating history of Vegas via a guided tour. They’ll also get to hear some really cool stories about Sin City that aren’t found elsewhere. Even better, you can also book a helicopter flight during the evening to see the neon signs from a different view.
2. Check out the view from the Stratosphere Observation Deck
If you want to see Sin City from a new perspective, the Stratosphere Observation Deck provides a mesmerising 360° view from up above. It’s located at the top of the Las Vegas Strip, 866 feet above ground level—scary.
You’ll be astonished by the panoramic views of landmarks such as Red Rock Canyon to the west and Hoover Dam to the south. During your visit, you can relax in one of the two lounges located on opposite sides of the observation deck for additional photo opportunities.
With an impressive selection of picturesque spots and attractions to explore, this is one experience that should not be missed. After all, how often do you get to see what’s below from such great heights?
➡️ Book Your Tickets for the Stratosphere Observation Deck
3. Experience an alternate reality at AREA15
You may have heard of Area 51, but have you heard about AREA15? This is an entertainment complex unlike any other, with exhibits as bizarre as what you’d expect at Area 51, but with a lot of fun added to them.
You can experience this magical world by partaking in a variety of experiences that allow you to ride, play, or explore the place. Get transported to a Tokyo night market or an African safari at the Illuminarium using interactive technology such as 360° audio, scent systems, and floor vibrations.
Join the alternate reality fun by soaring above the skies as a bird in the Birdly simulator. Get target practice and bragging rights in an axe-throwing competition, or take it back to the old days at the bar arcade filled with tons of games.
You might enjoy reading my articles on Las Vegas in February and Las Vegas in March.
4. Lace up at the Cosmopolitan Ice Rink
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, the Cosmopolitan Ice Rink is a must-do. Located right in the heart of The Strip, this world-class ice rink offers something truly unique.
Think unimaginable views of the 64,000 square-foot casino combined with picturesque vistas of the glittering night sky, all complemented with sensational seasonal decorations.
Beginner and experienced figure skaters come here annually, making every fall graceful and every trick they land that much better. When you feel too cold, you can escape to the Chalet, a mountaintop escape with festive decorations and a toasty firepit. Do all this while nibbling on unique bites and crafted cocktails.
The ice rink is a seasonal spot that closes early in January, so check their website to confirm opening hours.
Image by Weston M from Unsplash
5. See Real Bodies at Bally’s
If you’re after something a little more unique than the usual tourist traps, then Real Bodies at Bally’s is perfect. Here, you can view 20 real, preserved human bodies and 200 anatomical specimens that showcase the human body in all its glory.
You can observe these as they move to understand how the human body works. You’ll also get an audio guide, providing lessons on human biology, anatomy, medicine, and more.
There are also rotating art installations from local artists, including the Wall of Bones, love locks, and more.
6. See the Mirage Volcano Erupt
The Mirage Volcano in Las Vegas is a breathtaking spectacle everyone should experience. The volcano erupts with real fireballs, with an accompanying soundtrack and a light show. The spectacle is supported by mist sprays and multiple blasts from water cannons.
Plus, it won’t cost you a thing—the eruption is free to watch. It’s truly magical—no wonder the volcano was named “Mirage” as it almost seems too good to be true. It’s located right in front of the Mirage Hotel & Casino.
Get here early to get the best seat in the house and beat the crowds, with eruptions scheduled hourly between 7 pm and 11 pm.
7. Marvel at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens in Las Vegas is a festive winter wonderland come January. Beautiful botanicals spread warmth and holiday cheer throughout the casino, providing a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Stroll past intricately crafted and artfully lit displays of thousands of poinsettias, themed topiaries, and other greenery set around peaceful ponds. You’ll also find seasonal displays like polar bear sculptures that mirror the festive season. Take your time to admire the captivating seasonal artistry, savour hot cocoa while enjoying holiday music, or warm up with a beautiful fountain display.
Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay
8. Be blown away by engineering on the Hoover Dam Tour
A visit and tour of Hoover Dam has long been a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. That is even with it being a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas.
Here you can marvel at the sheer power of human engineering and experience what has become an iconic symbol of modern America.
The incredible concrete structure towers above the Colorado River, making for an amazing view. A tour of this amazing landmark offers an insight into just how much can be achieved with great vision, determination, and hard labour.
During your Hoover Dam adventure, you will get to explore its innermost details. From the powerhouse room where turbines generate electricity to the museum telling tales of its construction. Make sure you bring your camera for some memorable photos!
9. Get Underground in the Emerald Cave
The Emerald Cave is set about an hour away from Las Vegas, but trust me, a visit here is worth it. The fun doesn’t even start at the cave but on the way there. You’ll have to traverse the Black Canyon Trail via boat or kayak to get here. You can do it on your own or book an Emerald Cave tour from Sin City.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be instantly mesmerised by the stunning beauty of the emerald waters in contrast to the cave’s darkness. The water gains its green hue from the natural light reflecting off the cave system’s limestone walls.
Apart from the emerald waters’ beauty, you’ll be in awe at the cave’s stalactites and stalagmites.
➡️ Book Your Emerald Cave Tour
Final Thoughts on Visiting Las Vegas in January
Image by Ameer Basheer from Unsplash
Well, there you have it—a quick guide to some of the best things happening in Las Vegas in January. Hopefully, this has helped you plan your trip and given you an idea of what to expect when you visit.
For more toasty winter visits in the country, check out my guide on the USA’s warmest places during January.
I covered all of the costs involved in writing this article on January in Las Vegas. This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links in this article I may receive a small commission.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.