How to do Vegas for free, from volcanos to mermaids
By Aimee Heckel
It’s easy to drop big bucks in Sin City. Effortless, really. Slot machines are like loud, flashing magicians who can make your bank account disappear before your eyes.
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What happens in Vegas might stay in Vegas — but your money does not have to. Here are three ways to do Vegas for free, and some bonus tips on how to save money when you have no choice but to lay down the cash.
FREE FUN IN VEGAS
1. Hit up the Aquarium at the Silverton Hotel.
The pros: This 117,000-gallon reef aquarium is free and open 24/7. So at 3 a.m., you can gawk at thousands of exotic fish. Even if you’re not a fish-lover, don’t miss the mermaid shows, scheduled regularly throughout the day.
The cons: You’ll need a taxi or rental car to get there, because the aquarium is about five miles off the strip. Need to save money on a rental car? Check out these rental car coupons, and pair them with Cash Back from ShopAtHome.com to save the most. Our favorite current rental car deal is through Priceline: 40 percent off rentals (Alamo, Avis, Budget and more), plus 6 percent Cash Back.
2. The Sirens of TI show.
The pros: Feeling inspired by the enticing aquarium mermaids? This free daily show at Treasure Island features sultry temptresses, action-packed sword fights, pirate and high dives. During the spring and summer, take a break from the nightlife to catch the 11:30 p.m. late-night show.
The cons: At only 18 minutes long, the show is pretty short. You might spend more time trying to score a good view in the often-busy crowd than the show itself lasts. Book a night at Treasure Island to stay nearby. Check out Treasure Island coupons for dinner and lodging deals and more.
3. The Mirage volcano.
The pros: Fire plus music, plus choreography, plus sounds effects and special lighting. It’s hard to wrong with this free show, every hour on the hour from 7 to 11 p.m. The volcano has long been a Vegas fave — conveniently located right on the strip. Grab a drink and let the smoke and fireballs ignite your night at no cost.
The cons: Shows may be cancelled if it’s windy (obviously), so have a back-up entertainment plan. Like a wild night with music and dancing at 1 OAK in the Mirage, which is known to draw big-name superstars. Ciara recently held a release party at 1 OAK, so you never know who you might run into here. Although it’s not exactly free — and no fireballs included.
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