Are you looking for something entertaining, fun, and just a tad bit nerdy to do in Las Vegas?
This guide will show you exactly how to make your next trip to “Sin City” Nevada a truly memorable travel experience. You don’t have to be a nerd to enjoy this list but if you are a nerd, then these activities are definitely for you:
- Top Nerdy Experiences Unique to Las Vegas
- Best Nerdy Retro Nerdy or Local Culture Experiences
- Best Nerdy Rides & Virtual Experiences
- Best Nerdy Festivals, Conventions & Live Events
- Best Nerdy Tours & Classes
Standard Travel Needs – Nerdy Style
- Best Nerdy Places to Stay
- Best Nerdy Places to Eat
- Best Nerdy Places to Drink
- Best Nerdy Shopping & Souvenirs
If you’re ready to have a unique Vegas experience beyond the typical slots, buffets, bars, and clubs, this guide is for you.
Lets get started.
Recommended: The Ultimate Guide for Nerdy Travel Accessories
About The Author
Hi, I’m Kate.
I started planning unique travel experiences way back in 2008.
And I quickly realized that quirky, nerdy experiences were going to be a big part of my travel planning success.
So I set out to explore as much as I could.
And thanks to years of reading and experimenting, I’ve had a ton of success with travel planning…
…including the top 3 performing guides on this site:
- Nerdy Experiences in Washington DC
- Cheap Unique Places to Travel During Christmas in the US
- Killer Airbnb Experiences Found in the San Francisco Bay Area
Plus a majorly successful group trip to Vegas earlier this year. Check out these ideas and you could have an awesome trip planned within the next 15 minutes.
What are the Top Nerdy Experiences Unique to Las Vegas?
1. Best Nerdy Escape Room: Rugrats Escape Room
2. Best Nerdy Animal Experience: Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel
Explore 20 acres of outdoor exhibits that offer plenty of shade and include ponds, cascading waterfalls and more! In addition to Flamingos, you’ll find seagulls, pelicans, ducks, swans, turtles, koi fish and other animals too!
Recommended: Where to Meet The Best Nerdy Guys… Right Now
3. Best Nerdy Art Interactive Mystery Experience: Omega Mart at Area 51 by Meow Wolf
From the outside, this Las Vegas Supermarket appears fairly normal, however behind the fridge door (or the secret stairway in the souvenir section), you will find a hidden world with many unanswered mysteries and trace clues of the truth. Part escape room, part psychedelic art installation, this 4890-square-metre inter-dimensional exhibit is an experience worth having.
4. Best Nerdy Comic Book Experience: Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.: Experience the Science of Super Heroes
Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., an interactive exhibit, is an immersive experience that will transport you into the world of your favorite Marvel Super Heroes! From the labs of Bruce Banner, aka The Hulk, to the secret history of Hydra, this immersive exhibition will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of comic books and beloved films like Captain America: Civil War and Iron Man 3! It’s truly an adventure for the whole family!
5. Best Nerdy Book Experience: The Hunger Games Exhibition
At The Hunger Games: The Exhibition, guests can feel like they’re a part of the world of Panem. The attraction features not only exciting architectural design and special light effects, but also a wide variety of interactive elements and games. Moreover, visitors also get the chance to explore some behind-the-scenes content including the technology that brought the books to life in the cinematic series.
What are the Best Local Culture or Retro-Nerdy Experiences?
6. Twilight Zone Mini Golf
This unique 10,000 sq. ft Twilight Zone themed attraction features an extraordinary custom-designed indoor glow-in-the-dark 18 hole miniature golf course with trivia, contests, and prizes.
Filled with custom designed out-of-this-world props and paranormal artwork straight from the 5th dimension, this course is truly a unique experience for earthlings of all ages and sizes.
If mini golf isn’t your thing, you can also enjoy arcade games, bowling lanes, the alternate dimension gift shop, and the only Syfy Wedding Chapel on this planet!
7. Tour the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is the largest collection of vintage neon signs in the world, and it’s located in Las Vegas. It’s a great place to visit if you’re a fan of neon signs—and what kind of history nerd wouldn’t be?
8.Check Out the Pinball Hall of Fame
25,000 square feet of pinball arcade games for the entire family! All machines are available for play, so not only do you get to see hundreds of classics, but also play your favorites. The pinball machines have been restored to a like-new playing condition by people that love pinball and understand how the machines should work. All older pinballs are set to 25 cents per play, and newer 1990s models are set to 50 cents per play.
What are the Best Rides and Virtual Experiences?
9. Fly Over Las Vegas: The Ultimate Flying Ride
Imaging combining the magic of Disney’s Soarin’ Over California with the sparkling glamor of the Las Vegas area in one immersive, state-of-the-art hang gliding themed adventure. That is the unforgettable experience of FlyOver Las Vegas.
Located right next to Hard Rock Cafe on Las Vegas Boulevard.
10. Zero Latency VR Arcade
Put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. You and your friends are about to be transported into the virtual world. Without any wires, walls, or physical obstacles you are completely free to move and explore the massive space as much as you please.
Zero Latency VR is the world’s first free-roam VR entertainment venue and has grown into the largest free-roam virtual reality entertainment network on the planet today. The proprietary system exists in over 45 venues in 22 countries.
11. Railroad Explorers
Just 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip you can take an exhilarating ride through the beautiful Nevada desert, River Mountains, and Eldorado Valley like never before.
Simply mount your pedal assisted railroad bike and follow the silver rush era railroad tracks to Boulder City. Weekend Tours include a return trip on one of the historic trains from the collection at the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
12. Heavy Equipment Playground
Turn your fantasy of operating heavy machinery into a fun-filled reality event with a visit to Dig This Las Vegas. Choose from a 1- or 2-hour sessions, select a bulldozer, excavator (or both) — then dig trenches, build mounds, teeter-totter over a mega mound, move and stack 2,000-pound tires, even play ‘Bucket Basketball’ in this life-size sandbox. Talk with an expert instructor via headset to get working like a champ. Finally, take home a certificate of completion to show off to friends and family.
All necessary safety equipment provided.
What are the Best Nerdy Tours and Classes?
13.Pop Culture Tour of Downtown Las Vegas
Tour the “greatest performance street in America”: Fremont Street. Explore the famous neon signs, historic buildings & curiosities, massive video screen sheltering the street, classic casinos, and funny street performers in this 90 minute tour. By the time its over, you will have a deeper knowledge of Las Vegas and the spirit of the city.
14. Extra Terrestrial & Area 51 Tour
Embark on an out-of-this-world escapade from Las Vegas to uncover the legendary secrets of Area 51! Get ready for a full-day adventure that will take you through mysterious stories, classified spots, and even some yummy food.
First up, you’ll swing by the Las Vegas International Airport to catch a glimpse of the top-secret Janet Airlines. This highly classified US Air Force passenger airline fleet is reported to transport personnel directly to Area 51.
As you venture deeper into the desert via Extraterrestrial Highway, you will take a stop at Dry Lake and the Black Mailbox where many extraterrestrials have been sighted, and UFO fans attempt to communicate with the beyond. It’s a photo opportunity you don’t want to miss!
But wait, there’s more! Brace yourself for the ‘Absolute Perimeter,’ where you will travel through the mutant Joshua Tree Forest to reach the legendary ‘Men in Black’ who might be watching your every move. They’re the cool cats in shades who know all the juicy secrets but won’t spill the beans. So, be on your best behavior and give them a nod. Maybe they’ll invite you to their next secret alien soirée!
Amidst all the adventure, you’ll take a break for lunch at the quirky and welcoming Little A’Le’Inn. Don’t worry; the menu doesn’t consist of alien delicacies (although that would be quite the experience!). You’ll refuel with tasty treats, snacks, and refreshing bottled water before you resume your extraterrestrial exploration.
And to make your day even more enjoyable, your guide has got you covered with hotel pickup and drop-off. No need to worry about intergalactic Uber services – they’ll take care of everything!
15. Aerial Circus Skills Class with Elite Vegas Performers
Las Vegas is one of the world’s entertainment capitals and home to some of the best cirque shows. In this class, you will learn circus skills with elite performers from the Strip. Whether you are a first time flyer or a long time aerialist, you will get a behind the scenes peak at how things are done in Vegas!
The class will work your upper body and core strength, flexibility, coordination, and spins on various aerial apparatuses (hoop and hammocks for beginners). You’ll even get to see the experts perform some excerpts from their pro acts.
You don’t need to be extremely fit or flexible to do aerial exercises, however you should not take the class if you have major physical injuries or excessively drink alcohol in the 24 hours prior to starting the class.
What are the Best Nerdy Places to Stay?
When it comes to quality places to stay there is no shortage of options in Las Vegas. Most resorts are beautifully designed, uniquely themed, and offer tons of amazing amenities. However, there are a few that offer an extra unique experience and deserve to be included on this nerdy list.
16. Luxor Resort
Egyptian themed hotel named after the modern city of Luxor built on the ruins of the ancient city of Thebes. The hotel’s pyramid is similar in size to the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid of Egypt and is decorated with high quality replicas of historic art.
When the hotel opened, it was the tallest structure on the Strip. It also has the largest atrium and strongest beam of light, Luxor Sky Beam, in the world (the beam uses curved mirrors to collect the light from 39 xenon lamps and focus them into one intense, narrow beam. On a clear night, it is visible up to 275 miles (443 km) away.
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17. Excalibur Resort
Imagined for true fantasy lovers, the Excalibur Hotel offers guests the opportunity to live like King Aurther and the Knights of the round table. The classic Tournament of Champions dinner & show experience is an immersive view into the chivalrous exploits and friendly competition of medieval Knights.
On the modern side of the hotel, the resort offers an arcade, Lazer tag, a 4D experience, and multiple swimming pools on premises.
Recommended: 4 Best Pool Floats to Pack in a Suitcase
18. The Venetian Resort
This scaled down copy of Venice, Italy features the most famous spots in the old city (including the Palazzo Ducale, Piazza San Marco, Piazzetta di San Marco, the Lion of Venice Column and the Column of Saint Theodore, St Mark’s Campanile, and the Rialto Bridge). Although its difficult to compete with the original artistry of the masters in Venice, Italy, the level of detail used in The Venetian to create an authentic art experience is impressive and definitely worth a visit.
Additionally, the resort is known for having some of the nicest and largest rooms in Las Vegas. It also has unique amenities like the world famous Tao night club, Grand Canal Shoppes, and some of the most popular shows in Sin City.
What are the Best Nerdy Eats?
19. Cereal Killerz Kitchen
Enjoy 100 cereals from around the world, both dairy and non-dairy milk options, and multiple toppings at this truly unique DIY cereal experience. This kitchen has something for everyone. Use your imagination to build the perfect cereal bowl, cereal bun, waffle, ice cream, or milkshake of your dreams.
20. The Mermaid Lounge
This dining and lounge experience has a magical underwater vibe reminiscent of the Little Mermaid. Enjoy thousands of tropical fish and an interactive mermaid show designed for both adults and kids. Restaurant food options include pizza, burgers, and more.
21. Back to the 80’s Café
Back To The 80’s would like you to feel 100% what it was like to actually be part of the 80s from start to finish. From Tetris-shaped tater tots to a comic book design inspired menu, this local food joint will take you back to the 80’s like never before.
“When I go to Vegas I try to find the stuff that most tourists won’t find. I think I found a new go-to location for my future visits!”
Leslie W. – Visitor to the Cafe
22. Hello Kitty Café
Get ready for an adorable overload at the cutest café in Vegas! Snack and sip on a wide selection of Hello Kitty themed sweets, including cupcakes, cakes, cookies, donuts, and soft-serve ice cream in a waffle cone, plus themed coffee and expresso drinks, lemonades, iced teas, and milk teas.
Get the full experience by checking out the adorable specialty merchandise shop and funky photo spots.
23. We All Scream
A 10,000-square-foot destination ice cream venue with capacity for 1,000 revelers. This funky hank out’s design is innovatively divided between a rooftop dance floor, a back-alley patio and a classy, sassy 1950s ice cream parlor. If you’re serious about your nightlife, DJs, and quality of sound, then you’ve hit the sweet spot with We All Scream.
What are the Best Nerdy Drinks in Las Vegas? (bars, lounges & coffee shops)
If you’re in the mood for some nerdy drinks, head to one of these hopping Vegas bars. You can participate in trivia, play arcade games, or just enjoy a drink and make new friends.
24. Player 1 Video Game Bar
Player 1 prides itself on being THE place in VEGAS to celebrate video games and offers the widest selection of Local and National Craft Breweries.
A cover charge gets you unlimited access to their rotating selection of classic arcade cabinets, as well as a large variety of consoles from every era. They encourage guests to join the staff in the fun of cosplaying your favorite video game and pop culture characters.
25. Drink at Golden Tiki Bar
Based off a local East Indies legend (read here), the Golden Tiki Bar is a truly unique tropical experience. First and foremost are the drinks. They are beautifully garnished, topped with colorful umbrellas, poured into hollow pineapples, and some are even set on fire. If the large standard menu isn’t enough for you, don’t forget to ask about the secret menu!
Additionally, the bar is known for its interesting artifacts and oddities including a witch doctor’s medicine bag, a human skull, Hunter S. Thompson’s hunting knife, a portion of the ashes of British cult leader Aleister Crowley, a totem from Trader Vic’s Oakland, artwork from Tiki Bosco and Oceanic Arts—which decorated Disneyland’s Enchanted Tiki Room and the famous shrunken head collection.
Part of the charm of the collection is the fact that it is a tribute to individuals admired by the owner and the Tiki staff (including Adam Rains, legendary Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr, local food and beverage writer Al Mancini, Siegfried and Roy, Walt Disney, bartending legend Tony Abou-Ganim, UFC legend Randy Couture, and Hunter S. Thompson).
26. Harry Potter Themed Mocha – Bad Owl Coffee Roasters
Sip all things butterbeer while feeling like you’re about to catch the Hogwarts Express when you visit this truly Harry Potter-esque coffee shop. Make your order, snuggle into a cozy corner, enjoy the whimsical wizarding decor, and capture some magical photos to show your muggle friends.
Recommended: Ultimate List of Harry Potter Travel Accessories
27. minus5 Ice Bar
For those looking to not only beat the Vegas heat, but also hammer it into submission, minus5 Ice Bar is the place for you! Made of 90 tons of ice, the bar is literally a frozen: the walls, the seats, even the glasses that you enjoy your beverage in.
The bar is known for themed ice rooms, funky photo spots, house music, and an LED light show. New ice sculptures are regularly created throughout the year so every time you go you will have a different experience!
28. Tipsy Robot
Tipsy Robot takes bar tending to the next level – customers are served by robots that have the capacity to produce up to 120 drinks per hour. Each cocktail only takes 60 to 90 seconds to make and the mechanical tenders use highly precise measurements to ensure a perfectly crafted sip every time. They have killer dance moves, too.
1. Order your drink with the click of a button.
2. Create your own concoction, or choose an item from the extensive cocktail menu. Trust me, there’s no shortage of drinks in this bar.
3. Let the robo-bar tender do its thing!
If things ever get too busy, a human team is on standby at all times.
29. Millennium Fandom Bar
The Millennium Fandom Bar is a highly immersive Vegas experience for anyone who enjoys pop culture, bonding over favorite fandoms, and creating unique costumes (aka cosplay)! Sip signature themed cocktails while diving into the worlds of your most loved movies, comics, and video games.
The bar is especially fun to visit during weekly events such as Fandom karaoke, trivia, or movie nights; or weekend cosplay parties. From pirates to princesses, sci-fi to superheroes, there is an event for everyone!
One of the things that makes the Millennium Fandom Bar a magical “home away from home” is the unique community of patrons it attracts. While you’re visiting, you will feel fully comfortable with the crowd of nerds and geeky enthusiasts providing you with a welcoming vibe that is truly rare in Las Vegas.
What are the Best Nerdy Festivals, Live Events, and Conventions?
30. Amusement Expo
If you’re into arcade games and collectibles, then the Arcade Expo is a must-stop for you. The expo features over 1,500 machines and an additional 10,000 items on display, including arcade games and board games. The first day is focused on education about products and the industry (focusing on panels and classes). The following day is a showcase of the best and newest products being released in the coming year.
If you’re interested in playing some classic & highly modern arcade games, then this event is perfect for you!
31. Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con
Amazing Las Vegas brings the best and brightest in comic book and pop entertainment to “Sin City” annually in September. Meet your favorite creators and celebrities at this 3-day event, filled with a giant exhibitors hall, an international artist alley, video game arena, hundreds of people in costume and more.
32. Dice Tower West Board Game Convention
Full five day convention with over 2000 gamers held at the Rio Hotel & Casino near the end of August. The convention has a HUGE library of games and boasts to attract “the friendliest gamers you’ll ever find at a convention”.
What are the Best Shopping Spots to Buy Nerdy Souvenirs?
On your way out of town, don’t forget to stop by one of these nerdy shops to grab an unforgettable souvenir.
33. Have Some Fun at Little Shop of Magic Games
Largest game shop in Nevada! This full-service specialty tabletop game store has capacity for 100 players at a time and years of experience in the gaming business.
34. Pick Up Some Classics at the Toy Shack
If you’re looking to pick up a souvenir or two, the Toy Shack is a great place to start. It’s filled with action figures, board games, and trading cards galore!
35. Tokyo Discount
Importing the best specialty Japanese items at a discounted rate! You can even get snacks like Kewpie, Pocky, green tea & strawberry Kit Kats, Ramune, crackers, candies, chocolates, chips and nori.
Conclusion
That’s it! We hope you’re ready to get out and try some of these nerdy things in Vegas. Whether you’re a fan of comics, science fiction, video games or all of the above, there’s something for everyone in Sin City.
