CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
No Vegas trip is complete without a Cirque show. The Canadian entertainment company runs three permanent productions on the Strip, each unique in theme and venue.
"O" by Cirque du Soleil
Performed in and around a 1.5-million-gallon pool, "O" is widely considered the greatest show in Las Vegas history. Aquatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, aerial acts, and fire — all in a breathtaking theatre purpose-built for the production. Book at least 2 weeks ahead.
Mystère by Cirque du Soleil
The original Cirque show on the Strip — and still one of the best. Mystère is a classic celebration of human physical ability, featuring jaw-dropping aerial acts, massive puppets, and live percussion. A more affordable option than "O," and just as impressive.
Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil
A tribute to the King of Pop combining Cirque's signature athleticism with Michael Jackson's iconic music catalogue. A high-energy, emotional show that thrills fans and non-fans alike. Features incredible video projection and immersive surround sound.
MAGIC & ILLUSION
Las Vegas has been the world capital of magic for decades. These are the acts worth catching.
Penn & Teller
The longest-running headliner act in Las Vegas history. Penn & Teller blend comedy and magic in ways that are simultaneously baffling and hilarious. They often invite audience members onstage — and famously reveal how tricks are done, only to fool you again. Their post-show meet-and-greet is a Las Vegas tradition.
David Copperfield
The most commercially successful magician in history performs his signature large-scale illusions — including making a Learjet disappear — in his custom-built theater at MGM Grand. Copperfield performs 15 shows per week, making it easy to fit into any Vegas schedule.
Criss Angel MINDFREAK
Criss Angel's long-running residency at Luxor combines extreme stunts, escapology, and modern magic production values. The show is part live performance, part spectacle — expect audience participation and serious illusions.
COMEDY CLUBS
Las Vegas has a thriving stand-up comedy scene, with dedicated clubs and rotating headliners year-round.
Brad Garrett's Comedy Club
Actor and stand-up comedian Brad Garrett hosts rotating headliners six nights a week. The intimate venue means great sight lines from every seat. Garrett himself performs occasionally. Two-drink minimum applies.
The Laugh Factory
A Las Vegas outpost of the legendary Hollywood comedy club. Multiple shows nightly featuring touring national acts, up-and-coming comics, and occasional big-name surprises. Affordable tickets and a casual vibe make this a great warm-up to a night out on the Strip.
VARIETY & SPECTACLE
Absinthe
Performed in a small round tent outside Caesars Palace, Absinthe is unapologetically adult — raunchy, outrageous, and absolutely brilliant. A host called The Gazillionaire presides over acrobats, aerialists, and performers who push every boundary. Sells out regularly — book well ahead.
Blue Man Group
Three blue-painted performers create a multimedia sensory experience combining music, comedy, and art. Audience members in the first few rows get ponchos — there's a reason. An accessible, family-friendly show that somehow always feels fresh.
Tournament of Kings
A dinner show set in a medieval arena where guests eat (with their hands!) while knights joust on horseback. Cheesy in the best possible way — the crowd is always into it. A classic Vegas experience that's perfect for groups or families with kids.
MAJOR RESIDENCIES & CONCERTS
Las Vegas is the home of the long-running concert residency. The Dolby Live at Park MGM, Michelob Ultra Arena at Mandalay Bay, and the Colosseum at Caesars Palace regularly host the world's biggest music acts for multi-week runs. Check venue schedules for current listings — the lineup changes constantly.
- Dolby Live at Park MGM — 5,200-seat state-of-the-art arena. Recent acts include Adele, Bruno Mars, J Balvin.
- The Colosseum at Caesars Palace — 4,298 seats in an intimate classical setting. Home to Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Rod Stewart residencies historically.
- Michelob Ultra Arena at Mandalay Bay — 12,000-seat venue for major tours and boxing events.
- T-Mobile Arena — 20,000-seat arena between Park MGM and New York-New York. Home of the Vegas Golden Knights NHL team and major boxing cards.
TIPS FOR BUYING SHOW TICKETS
- Book directly through the hotel box office or official show website to avoid service fees from third-party resellers.
- Same-day discount tickets are available at Tix4Tonight kiosks throughout the Strip — great for spontaneous plans but limited availability.
- Weekend shows sell out fast — especially Cirque shows, Absinthe, and major residencies. Book 2+ weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday.
- Check ages — Absinthe is 18+, some comedy shows are 21+. Cirque shows are family-friendly.
- Hotel concierges often have access to discounted tickets or preferred seating — ask when you check in.