When people think of Las Vegas, the famous Las Vegas Strip often comes to mind. However, just a few miles away lies another vibrant and bustling destination – Fremont Street. Known as the “Old Vegas”, Fremont Street offers a unique and nostalgic experience that is perfect for both couples and families, at least during daylight hours. After dark this Las Vegas hot spot quickly becomes an adult playground. In this guide, I will take you through the must-visit attractions and activities that you can enjoy during the day on Fremont Street.
Overview of Fremont Street and Its History
Fremont Street is located in downtown Las Vegas and was the original hub of the city’s gambling and entertainment scene. It was where the first casinos and hotels were built, and it holds a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Today, it is a pedestrian-only street covered by a massive LED canopy that lights up the sky with dazzling visuals and live performances.
If you’re planning to stay in downtown Las Vegas, I recommend checking out the Circa Resort & Casino. This newly opened hotel offers a modern and luxurious experience, while still embracing it’s origins on Fremont Street. I had the opportunity to stay at Circa during my visit, and I was impressed by the sleek design, yummy restaurants, and exceptional pool. The location was perfect for exploring Fremont Street, as it was under the dome and across from the Golden Nugget. If you’re interested, you can read more about my experience at Circa in my blog post.
What to Not Miss During the Day
1. SlotZilla
One of the most iconic attractions on Fremont Street is SlotZilla, a thrilling zipline that takes you soaring above the bustling crowds. During my visit, I couldn’t resist the chance to experience the exhilaration of flying through the air with the neon lights of Fremont Street below me. The views from above were incredible, and I could see the energy of Fremont Street in a whole new way. SlotZilla is open from 1 pm to 1 am on weekdays and from noon to 1 am on weekends. Prices start at $50, and you can book your tickets in advance on their website. I recommend the $70 option that I did that let’s you fly superman style (so fun and unique); it also included corny pictures you can use on social media. For an additional $25 you can add a GoPro video of your experience.
2. People Watch at a Restaurant/Bar
Fremont Street is known for its lively atmosphere, and there’s no better way to soak it all in than by sitting at a restaurant or bar and people-watching. My partner and I found a cozy spot at a rooftop bar, where we enjoyed a delicious cocktail while observing the diverse crowd below. We were entertained by street performers, musicians, and the general buzz of excitement that filled the air. It was a fantastic way to relax, take in the sights, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant ambiance of Fremont Street. If it’s too hot out to sit outside, I recommend Whiskey Licker Bar. This bar is in Binion’s and full rotates so everyone can enjoy a view of the street below.
3. The Pool Time
If you’re visiting Fremont Street with your family, a visit to The Tank pool at the Golden Nugget is a must. We spent a sunny afternoon soaking up the vibes at The Tank, where we had the unique opportunity to slide through a shark tank. It was an experience that will thrill both kids and adults. If you’re a group of adults or sports fans I recommend the Stadium Swim pool at Circa, where we lounged in heated pools and watched our favorite sports events on the massive screens. Stadium Swim is open and heated year around. I believe it’s worth the trip from the main strip just to lounge for the day in this pool and watch your favorite team. Both pools are open to outside hotel guests for a small daily fee that will usually range between $15-$40 per person.
4. Picture with a Million Dollars
Have you ever wanted to pose with a million dollars? Well, you can at Binion’s Casino on Fremont Street. We couldn’t resist the opportunity to feel like high rollers as we stood next to a pyramid of a million dollars in cash. It was a fun and distinctive photo opportunity (although a bit kitschy, of course) that made us feel like a part of the Las Vegas glamour. Binion’s Casino is open 24/7, and you can find it at 128 Fremont Street.
5. Container Park
For a family-friendly activity, we headed over to Container Park, an open-air shopping center made entirely out of shipping containers. The vibrant and creative space was filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and a playground for children. We explored the unique stores and sampled food from local vendors. There are also live performances on the main stage many afternoons to add an extra element of excitement to your visit. The Container Park is open from 11 am to 9 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 9 pm on weekends. Admission is free, but some activities may have additional costs.
6. Sigma Derby at The D
If you’re a fan of vintage arcade games, don’t miss the Sigma Derby horse racing game at The D Casino. I spent hours placing bets on the mechanical horses as they raced around the track. The nostalgic ambiance and friendly competition added a layer of fun to our day on Fremont Street. This casino machine is very popular, and although there are ten seats, you will often have to wait for a seat to play. We even struck up conversations with other players, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement. The Sigma Derby game is located on the second floor of The D Casino and is open 24/7.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your daytime adventures on Fremont Street. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or family-friendly activities, Fremont Street has something for everyone. Remember to check the specific hours, costs, and locations of each attraction before your visit. Enjoy your time in “Old Vegas” and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant and historic part of Las Vegas.
