From the image of Elvis in his sparkly white jumpsuit, to master magician David Copperfield sawing himself in half, Las Vegas and show business go hand-in-hand. That’s why the city bills itself as the ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’. There’s something for everyone here, but some Las Vegas shows stand out and go on to enjoy huge success.
Here are some of our favorites…
CAESARS PALACE
Some acts are just the perfect fit for Las Vegas. Elvis captured exactly what the city was about back in the 1970s and Caesar's Palace hosts a number of similarly perfect acts today. You're guaranteed huge ballads, unbelievable vocal performances and mega-hits at Caesars Palace, with regular guests including Celine Dion, Sir Elton John, Mariah Carey, Rod Stewart, Reba and Brooks & Dunn.
Red Route, Stop: Caesars Palace
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Technically, Cirque du Soleil run numerous Las Vegas shows at any one time across the city. And they’re all incredible. Each is unique, but you should always expect to see flying acrobats, mind-boggling stunts and captivating performances all accompanied by a high-energy soundtrack.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: Monte Carlo Hotel
ABSINTHE
Absinthe can only be described as an old school circus sideshow brought kicking and screaming into the modern age. The show features an assortment of burlesque acts, feats of strength and other out-of-the-ordinary performances that will leave you scratching your head or wondering if you’re dreaming. This is one for adults only. Best to approach with an open mind.
Red Route, Stop: Caesars Palace
BLUE MAN GROUP
Another show that has made the Las Vegas strip its own in recent years. Set to a thudding and percussive soundtrack, this group of blue men (the name isn’t that imaginative) explore various human themes, including loneliness and alienation, through a series of clever and often funny performance pieces. Only it’s much, much better than we’ve made it sound. A true one off you have to experience for yourself.
View this post on Instagram
Red & Green Route, Stop: Excalibur Hotel
PARK THEATER AT MONTE CARLO
This ambitious new theater features over 5000 seats and will play host to a variety of big-name acts, including Lady Gaga, Cher, Ricky Martin and Bruno Mars. The theater aims to redefine the concert experience, featuring telescopic retractable seating and an 80-foot custom LED projection video wall, designed to immerse concert-goers in a multi-sensory entertainment experience.
Red Route, Stop: Monte Carlo Hotel
PENN & TELLER
Good magicians never reveal how they did it, right? Wrong. The brash and bold Penn and diminutive Teller have been at the top of the industry for decades. And, as well as shocking the audience with audacious illusions, they then play with you by showing you exactly how you’ve been tricked. A hugely entertaining show that’s been running on and off in Las Vegas for years.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: Caesars Palace
FOUNTAINS OF THE BELLAGIO
One of the most iconic shows doesn’t take place in a theater. Stretching for a quarter mile (0.4 kilometres) in front of the hotel, the Fountains of Bellagio display mixes light, music and colour to enthral viewers. With regular shows every half hour in the afternoons, it’s a must-see during your stay in Las Vegas. Best of all, it’s completely free.
Red Route, Stop: Caesars Palace
VEGAS! THE SHOW
A tribute to the amazing story of Sin City, complete with Vegas idols like Elvis, the Rat Pack and showgirls. This Broadway-style variety production charts the history of Las Vegas, and pays homage with performances of favorite songs, special effects, acrobatics, comedians, dancers and jugglers. You'll be entertained by the sheer spectacle and the amazing efforts of the performers and will enjoy the opportunity to hear renditions of pop’s hit songs.
View this post on Instagram
Red Route, Stop: Hawaiian Marketplace
DONNY AND MARIE OSMOND SHOWROOM
Beautiful harmonies, chart-topping hits, a first-class band, stunning costumes and excellent choreography... that's not to mention the famous Osmond charm at the center of it all. Sibling megastars Donny and Marie deliver a family friendly performance that includes favourites like Puppy Love, Paper Roses and Soldier of Love. Their passion for performance and for Las Vegas is evident in this unmissable show, which has been running since 2008.
Red Route, Stop: Caesars Palace
Though we’re sure you can happily spend every day during your Las Vegas visit at a different show, after all there are so many to choose from, there’s so much more to discover while you’re here. Take a look at our Top 10 Things to do in Las Vegas guide for more inspiration and hop on board one of our open-air bus tours to see the very best sights, landmarks and Las Vegas attractions.
