Las Vegas Itinerary: 4 Days with a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

Well Las Vegas, it’s been a while! Yes I am back, 15 years since my last visit and 25 years since my first visit.

This time I was back with a purpose, the Las Vegas F1 and a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour. I didn’t do everything below on this visit, but I’ve done most if not all of it on my numerous Las Vegas visits.

So please use this Las Vegas itinerary as a good starting point to see what you want to do with your trip, or just dip in and out of it as necessary.

How to Plan an Itinerary for Las Vegas: An Overview

Before getting to the main section of this day-to-day itinerary, I want to answer some questions that I had and that you may have as a first-timer in Vegas.

How Much to Budget for a Trip to Las Vegas?

It really depends on your style. If you’re keeping things modest, you can plan a trip with around $200–$300 per day for food, drinks, and a bit of fun.

Then, add in another $150–$250 per night for a decent hotel. On the other hand, shows and fine dining can get expensive, just like the tours. So you should budget in $500+ a day. Yes, unfortunately, Vegas is expensive but I think it’s worth it for some of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Don’t forget to set aside cash for tips, taxis, and maybe a night or two at the casino.

Are 4 Days in Vegas Enough?

I recommend staying four days in Vegas. This is how long I’ve stayed on multiple previous visits and it was enough to see the highlights and take day trips.

In addition, you can enjoy a pool day or catch a show. It’s not long enough to do everything, but it’s good enough for most people, including myself.

How to Get Around Las Vegas?

Getting around Vegas is very easy. The Strip is walkable, but your feet will thank you if you hop on the monorail or grab a quick Uber for longer stretches.

Renting a car is great if you’re doing tours outside the city, like the Hoover Dam or Death Valley. However, I personally preferred joining a day tour as it’s more convenient and the price ended up being very similar (I travel solo).

For a more unique night out, try a limousine or even the double-decker sightseeing buses. Those cover the most popular attractions in the city.

Is Las Vegas Safe?

Yes, Las Vegas is pretty safe, especially on the Strip. There’s always a crowd and security or police around.

That said, keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings (especially if you’re drinking). If you’re heading to the downtown area, I would stick to Fremont Street. It’s lively and well-lit, so again no danger there, but it’s more sketchy the further you stray from Freemont Street.

The Ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Now that you have a better idea of what to expect from a trip to Las Vegas, let’s go through the itinerary day by day, with one of two activities in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Strip

Day 1 is more about the “core” part of Las Vegas. I imagine you’ll fly to Las Vegas airport and you’ll then check into your hotel room. Once you get to your room, let the fun begin!

Here’s my itinerary for the first day in town.

Morning: Stroll Along the Strip

Start your first day with a walk along the Las Vegas Strip. It’s just like you saw in the movies: Full of energy, people enjoying their time, massive hotels, entertainers on every corner and countless photo opportunities.

Every time I’m back in Vegas, I’m blown away by the energy on the strip and endless people-watching opportunities!

Tip: Stop by the Bellagio fountains for their show, as it’s free and happens every 15–30 minutes, depending on the time of day. And make sure to come back in the evening as it’s even nicer lit up at night!

Every hotel has it’s entertainment, from The Luxor to Caesar’s Palace. It’s worth doing your research to see which hotel has the vibe you want. From chic shopping at the Wynn to the canals at the Venetian (not for me personally). There’s something for everyone.

Wear comfy shoes because the Strip is longer than it looks (4.2 mi, or 6.8km) and the desert sun can be intense even in the morning.

Afternoon: Neon Sign Museum & Fremont Street Experience

The Strip is the most iconic place in the city. However, if you want yet another great experience, the Neon Sign Museum is where you can see more of Vegas through the retired signs. And that’s as authentic as it gets.

Each sign tells its own story, including the famous “Stardust” sign. Make sure to visit during the day for clear photos, but a guided evening tour is nice too for seeing the signs lit up.

There’s more, let’s not forget Fremont Street, the heart of downtown Vegas. It’s a similar setting to the Strip: it’s busy (in a good way), fun, and full of character. And being a pedestrianised street is has a more relaxed feel to it.

Fun fact, that’s the place with the most reviews I’ve ever seen on Google Maps!

Try the SlotZilla zipline if you’re feeling adventurous, or just enjoy the street performers, light shows, and nice little shops. This is the perfect place to grab a drink, people-watch, and enjoy Vegas.

Late Afternoon and Evening: Stadium Swim at Circa Resort

Wrap up your day with a chill evening at Stadium Swim, located at the Circa Resort downtown. Don’t be fooled, it’s not just a pool, but instead a full-on entertainment zone with massive LED screens playing live sports and other events.

There are six pools on different levels to choose from, so you can swim around or just lounge in a cabana sipping a cocktail.

If you’re hungry, you can get some food by the pool, which makes the overall Vegas itinerary more premium! It’s the kind of spot where you can unwind, catch a game, and still feel like you’re in the heart of Vegas.

Another option: consider a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel. It’s a few miles away from Circa Resort, but only about 15 minutes by car, and it’s 100% worth it! They close at midnight during the week and 2 AM in the weekend, so you really have no excuse to skip it.

Day 2: Adrenaline and Iconic Tours

Day 2 is all about adrenaline. You can kick things off with a supercar experience (what better place than Vegas for that?), then learn about the area with a visit to the Hoover Dam. End the day in true Vegas style, in a limo on the Strip or going to a classic Vegas show.

Morning: Hoover Dam Tour

Start your day by taking it easy with a trip to the iconic Hoover Dam, just about 45 minutes from the Strip. The dam was built in 1931, holding back the Colorado River to create Lake Mead.

It’s impressive to see up close, especially when you walk across the top and look down…it’s a long way!

You can walk across the top of the dam, peer over the edge, and take in views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River.

You can join a day tour to learn about the dam and the impact it had in the region back in the days. I love to travel on my own but I’m so far away from home, so it’s nice to be with a local expert, despite spending a little more money.

Afternoon: Drive a Supercar

Continue your day with pure adrenaline by driving a supercar at a world-class racetrack. Places like Exotics Racing let you get behind the wheel of luxury cars like Lamborghinis, Ferraris, or McLarens.

After a quick briefing and safety tips, you’ll hit the track for high-speed laps that’ll get your heart racing. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and if you’re like me and like cars, you know you can’t skip this one.

Of course, it’s a little expensive but not outrageous: $299 for a 2-hour experience. Also, if you travel as a couple, this is a nice present to get to your other half, if that’s his/her cup of tea!

Evening: Take a Limo Tour

There’s no better way to end the second day in style than a limousine tour. That’s right, you are in Vegas after all! I booked one of these for my family 15 years ago and they still talk about it today!

A limo tour lets you see the Strip like a VIP from a different angle, with stops at landmarks like the Bellagio fountains or the iconic Las Vegas sign.

You can sip champagne, take photos, and hang out the window on the strip. What’s more Vegas than that?

Day 3: Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (MUST DO!)

Day three takes you out of the city and into one of the most famous and beautiful spots in the US: the Grand Canyon with Maverick Helicopters.

You can’t get a better view of the Grand Canyon than from a helicopter. I’ve taken helicopter tours in different places in the world, but the Grand Canyon was next level, to say the least.

In the evening, when you’re in back in town, enjoy dinner and relax, you’ve earned it.

Morning to Afternoon: Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

Let me start by saying that this easily was the highlight of my trip! I left Vegas in the morning with my tour guide (hotel pickup is included, which is convenient) and went straight to the departure point, which is near Harry Reid International Airport.

The helicopter ride flew by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the Mojave Desert, and even the Vegas Strip itself at the end! Trust me when I say that seeing the layered cliffs from above is just something you’ll never forget.

The pilot was amazing, he explained each part of the Canyon as we passed by (the safety briefing was very clear too, which I appreciated). I went with Maverick Helicopters and the tour was called Wind Dancer Grand Canyon Landing.

The whole experience lasts around 3 hours, including the transportation to the airport. Oh, did I mention that a glass of Champagne is included when we land in the Grand Canyon? What an absolutely insane experience and I can’t recommend it enough!

Evening: Attend a Classic Vegas Show

There are plenty of shows in Las Vegas, and trust me when I say that you won’t know which one to pick. Choose between Cirque du Soleil, comedies, magic shows, or even legendary headliners.

If you’re reading this guide before your trip, do yourself a favour and book tickets in advance for popular shows, because they always sell out.

No matter which option you go for, it’s the perfect way to wind down your third day in Vegas. Especially if you’ve never done Broadway!

That said, these are some of the best shows you can pre-book:

• The Mentalist
• O by Cirque du Soleil
• Vegas! The Show
• KÀ by Cirque du Soleil
• Mystère by Cirque du Soleil
• Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil

Last but not least, on a more recent note, The Sphere has incredible shows and you really want to consider one as it’s such an original idea that you can’t see anywhere else in the world!

Day 4: Exploring Beyond Vegas

We have four days in Vegas, and for the last one, I would suggest doing something different; a day trip from Vegas. There are 2 options I love, the Death Valley and the Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks.

Want to know more? Continue reading below.

Option 1: Death Valley Tour

If you’ve never seen a desert landscape like Death Valley, you’re in for a treat.

It’s just a couple of hours from Vegas (by US standards that’s just a short drive), but it feels like another world. Think salt flats that stretch forever, colourful hills, and views that’ll blow your mind.

I recommend this tour, which includes the Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the U.S.), and Zabriskie Point. 

You’ll also stay in the valley late in the afternoon, which means seeing the stars!

Don’t let the name fool you, Death Valley is full of life and surprises. Just be ready for some heat and bring a water bottle. This is one of those trips that’ll have you saying, “I can’t believe I just saw that.”

Option 2: Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

This one’s another incredible tour from Vegas. Bryce Canyon is famous for its wild hoodoos and weird-looking rock formations that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

The colours, the shapes, it’s just like nothing you’ve ever seen.

After that, head to Zion National Park. One of the best national parks in America. It’s only 2 hours by car, which isn’t that bad. Think of massive red cliffs and green valleys. It’s a little different from Bryce Canyon and other places around Vegas, and that’s what makes it so unique.

If you go with a tour guide, you’ll drive through the Canyon Scenic Drive, and maybe hop out for a short hike to the Emerald Pools.

It’s a full day, but worth it to see two of the most stunning parks in the Southwest.

More Activities to Add to Your Las Vegas Itinerary

F1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has taken the F1 experience to a whole new level. I went there in November 2024 and it was the second time it was ever hosted in Vegas. Needless to say, the place was packed!

The F1 Las Vegas is a street circuit so it includes the iconic Strip, with cars flying by under the bright lights at over 200mph. Personally I’m a huge F1 fan, but I’m confident you’ll like the experience even if you’re not.

Grandstands and VIP packages give you options for how to watch, but even catching a glimpse from nearby is electric. Plan ahead if it’s F1 weekend when you visit, though, tickets sell out fast, and the city will get crowded with fans from all over the world.

Madame Tussauds

Many people will think of Madame Tussauds as a classic tourist attraction, but hey, we’re tourists after all! The wax museum isn’t just about lifelike figures but it’s interactive and tonnes of fun. Pose with lifelike versions of your favourite stars, from Hollywood legends to music icons.

The fun part of going to a Madame Tussauds in the States is that you’ll probably know most of the celebrities here, as opposed to other parts of the world.

You can even grab a selfie with the Avengers or hang out with Elvis! It’s right at The Venetian, a quick and entertaining stop. You can even have lunch or dinner here as there are multiple restaurants. Plus, it’s perfect for fun photos to share with friends back home.

High Roller Observation Wheel

I quickly mentioned the High Roller Observation Wheel in this guide but I thought it deserved its own section. It’s 550 feet tall, and it’s the largest of its kind in the world.

Each cabin is spacious and you’ll have 360-degree views of the Strip, the desert, and the mountains.

A single ride takes about 30 minutes, and you can even opt for a Happy Half Hour cabin with an open bar. It’s especially nice at night with the city lights.

Hit the Casinos

Let’s be honest, you can’t visit Vegas without trying your luck at a casino. Whether it’s slots, blackjack, or poker, there’s going to be a game for you. Please, play responsibly though and don’t risk your life savings!

Head to iconic spots like Bellagio, Caesars Palace, or MGMs to experience the real Vegas vibe. Never played poker before? Many casinos have beginner-friendly tables or low-stakes games to get you started. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the energy on the casino floor is contagious.

Set a budget, don’t go overboard, and enjoy the thrill. Who knows? You might just walk away with a story to tell and maybe even a little extra cash!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas?

Here’s a list of great places to stay in Las Vegas to make your trip unforgettable. Note that among these is the Venetian Resort, a luxurious classic that you’ll fall in love with, and the Flamingo with views over Bellagio and Caesars Palace.

Honestly, if you have the means, you’re guaranteed to have a fabulous hotel. But if you travel on a budget, you can still find some great options. Read on for more!

Luxury: The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas

Luxury: Wynn Las Vegas

Mid-Range: Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel and Casino

Mid-Range: SAHARA Las Vegas

Budget: Harrah’s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Conclusion

So there you have it, a few options for your next visit to Las Vegas. Which ones will you do or which have you done already?

I’ll be constantly updating this Las Vegas itinerary, so keep checking back for any further updates and new things to do! Enjoy and good luck.