Here is our guide on the best things to do at the Venetian.
The Venetian is still one of my favorite hotels in Las Vegas. Even though visitors are all about the shiniest or biggest new hotel on the Strip, the Venetian has maintained a classic charm that we love.
They have a ton of fun things to do, eat, and it’s the prettiest casino-hotel to photograph. Plus, parking is free.
A big thank you to Grand Canal Shoppes and Venetian for hosting some of our meals and experiences. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Eearth Travel possible.
Last Updated: January 15, 2022
15 Best Things to Do at the Venetian Las Vegas
1. Gondola Ride (Indoor & Outdoor) →
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The Gondola Ride at The Venetian is an iconic Vegas activity. Out of all the touristy activities, it’s one that we’ve repeated (5x!) and recommend for visitors.
There are two separate rides: an indoor ride and an outdoor ride. After having done both, we prefer the outdoor ride (as long as it’s not blistering hot outside). You also get serenaded on both.
Local Tip: When it gets busy, tickets aren’t always available. If you’re looking for specific time slots, it’s best to book a ticket ahead of time.
See More: The Venetian Gondola Ride in Las Vegas – What You Need to Know
2. Paniq Room Escape Room & Lounge →
3325 S Las Vegas Blvd Grand Canal Shoppes Level 2M, 89109, map
We’ve done over 15 escape rooms in Las Vegas, and there are only two located on the Strip. PanIQ Room is one of them and is located inside the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian.
They have 3rd generation (higher tech) escape rooms with fun reveals. On top of that, there is a lounge where you can get drinks while you wait.
We did the Atlantis room and even bounded as Little Mermaid characters. We also checked out their Time Machine room. If you want to see how it compares to other escape rooms, check out our Vegas escape rooms post linked below.
Local Tip: Use code ‘localadventurer’ for 10% off your booking!
See More: Best Escape Rooms in Las Vegas
3. Sandbox VR →
3377 Las Vegas Blvd S #2235, 89109, map
We’ve tried a handful of different VR experiences, and this is our favorite so far. It feels very immersive.
You and your team of up to 6 people are in a room to freely move around. Your body is tracked by the motion sensors, and you work together to accomplish goals.
They recommend maxing out the number of people for each experience to increase your chances of success.
In the end, it’s fun to watch the trailer that they create for your experience. It switches between the footage of you in real life to what you’re doing in VR.
Local Tip: Depending on the experience you choose, it can be a workout. Dress comfortably. A long dress was not the best choice, but it worked out okay. In the VR, my legs were constantly moving because of the dress movement.
See More: 15 Unique Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Las Vegas
4. Minus 5 Ice Bar →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd #2140, 89109, map
Cozy up and get a drink at the Minus5 Ice Bar where everything around you is covered in ice and your drinks are served in glasses made of ice. It’s the perfect escape from the Vegas heat.
This is our favorite location so far with icescapes of penguins, polar bears, and even a Star Wars section. They also refresh the rooms a couple of times a year sometimes making big changes and other times just filling in spots that have melted over time.
When we went, there were times it was empty, and there were times it was packed. Most people stayed for a drink and some photo opps, so the flow was sporadic.
They provide a jacket, hat, and gloves to keep you warm, but proper shoes are your responsibility. Read our tips below.
Local Tip: Here are some things to keep in mind.
- Save money by prebuying drinks when you get your ticket.
- Use the coasters. One of my drinks slid right off the table.
- Wear close-toed shoes. Like an idiot, I wore sandals thinking I could make it. My feet were pretty cold from the get-go, but after I spilled the drink on myself (rookie move), I was not enjoying myself anymore. They were nice enough to replace my drink for me, but my toes were not having it. Just wear the closed-toed shoes, yeah?
See More: 15 Unique Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Las Vegas
5. Atomic Saloon Show →
3327 South Las Vegas Blvd Level 2, 89109, map
We’ve seen all through Spiegelworld shows, and Atomic Saloon is our favorite. Right as you enter, you’re transported to a funky wild west saloon.
If you don’t like raunchy humor or get easily offended, then this isn’t the show for you. We had fun!
The show acts had us laughing so hard. Mix in amazing acrobatics and strong drinks, and you have a recipe for a great time.
Learn more about the show here and get tickets here.
Local Tip: If you’re having dinner at any of the restaurants before the show, just let them know you have a show to catch so they can get you out in time.
See More: 9 Las Vegas Shows You Can’t Miss
6. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd Ste. 2001, 89109, map
This was one of those cheesy experiences we wanted to try, and we ended up having way more fun than we expected. Some of them looked so real, I was afraid they would come alive.
It’s always fun playing tourist at home. I’m not sure I would put it at the top of my list of things to do if it was my first visit to Vegas, but maybe if it was my third or fourth.
It’s your chance to take a bunch of photos with celebs without actually bothering them IRL. Get tickets here.
Local Tip: They also have a Marvel 4D show.
See More: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Las Vegas
7. Streetmosphere
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
This is one of the top free activities to do in Las Vegas. Head to St. Mark’s Square on the weekends to catch a free 15-minute show. You’ll see a rotation of performers sing, play instruments, and dance.
Performances run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12 PM to 7:30 PM.
Local Tip: Get a table at Brera Osteria or Mercato Della Pescheria for dinner and a show.
See More: 25 Free Things to Do in Las Vegas
8. X-Pot
3327 S Las Vegas Blvd Suite 2884, 89109, map
If you love hot pot, X-Pot takes it to the next level. My favorite was the chicken broth with the Wagyu feast. Don’t forget the drinks – so good! You even have robot servers assisting the human servers.
Local Tip: It gets busy, especially on weekends, so be sure to make a reservation.
9. Tao →
3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
TAO Nightclub is still one of the popular clubs on the strip. It’s been around for over a decade and often hosts big DJs and artists. We’ve heard the food is good too and they get some of the freshest fish on the strip, but haven’t had a chance to get to it yet.
Local Tip: Check their events calender to find out who will be there.
10. Love Sculpture →
3325 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The LOVE sculpture in the Waterfall Atrium is a popular photo spot. Created by artist Laura Kimpton, the giant red letters are 12 feet tall and span 36 feet across. We saw one of her other pieces in Reno too!
Local Tip: Make sure you have a wide-angle lens to capture the whole thing. Also, ever since pandemic, they put up signs that you’re no longer able to stand in the sculpture.
See More: 25 Best Las Vegas Photo Spots with Tips from a Local
11. Shop at the Grand Canal Shoppes
3377 Las Vegas Blvd S, 89109, map
There are a ton of shops at the Grand Canal Shoppes. We love wandering under the painted skies and along the beautiful canals.
When we need to buy gifts, we like to pick up chocolates from ROYCE. So soft and yummy.
12. The Wishing Tree
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, 89109, map
The Wishing Tree is a 20-foot olive tree sculpture with brass leaves and hidden glass birds. It’s a fun photo spot and has an AR experience. Just scan the QR code and speak your wish into an Instagram filter and see what happens.
13. Photo Opps in Front and at the Red Corridor
36.1221761,-115.1710975, map
The Venetian is one of our favorite photo spots in Las Vegas. Not only do you get iconic moments like the Gondola Ride, but the front outdoor area is so picturesque. There’s a bridge to shoot at and corridors too.
If you’re shooting with a photographer, you need a permit, but if it’s casual, you can definitely snap a few photos without being noticed.
Local Tip: Early mornings will be the least crowded!
14. See Musical Artists or Comedians at the Venetian Theatre →
3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
There is a steady stream of guests that come perform at the Venetian, whether it’s your favorite musical act or comedian. We saw Kelly Clarkson perform a few years ago. Check out this link to check out upcoming artists and performances.
Local Tip: Popular shows will sell out quickly so be sure to grab tickets if it’s someone you really want to see.
15. See a show in the Summit Showroom →
3355 Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas, NV 89109, map
The Summit Showroom is another spot that brings different shows into the Venetian. It is currently hosting FreeStyle Love Supreme, which we’ve seen twice and absolutely love. It’s a fun improv, hip-hop comedy routine co-written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. If you stay tuned, they make announcements where he might guest star too!
Map of the Best Things to Do at the Venetian Vegas
Best Restaurants in VENETIAN Las Vegas
THE DORSEY (COCKTAIL BAR, 💰💰💰)
Voted Best Bar in Las Vegas by Condé Nast Traveler. If you’re looking for a quieter experience where you can chat with the bartender and have them create something unique for you, visit between 4-8 PM. If you prefer DJ vibes and crowds, visit after 10:30 PM.
THE ALLEY (BUBBLE TEA, 💰💰)
Up until recently, you had to go off strip to get bubble tea, but that’s no longer true. The Alley is tucked away in the Grand Canal Shoppes and has a cute seating area. They made their own creme brulee for their drinks too!
BRERA OSTERIA (ITALIAN, PIZZA, 💰💰💰)
Delicious pizza and pastas. There’s a great view of St. Mark’s Square.
GRAND LUX CAFE (AMERICAN, 💰💰)
This was the big surprise on our staycation. Not only is it one of the few affordable places to eat on the Strip, but it’s open till midnight, and all the food we tried was good. We kept coming back here at random hours of the day.
MATTEO’S RISORANTE ITALIANO (ITALIAN, 💰💰💰)
Spectacular hand made pasta. Don’t miss the Mandilli Di Seta. It’s one of my favorite pasta dishes in Vegas.
MERCATO DELLA PESCHERIA (ITALIAN/SEAFOOD, 💰💰💰)
Located right in St. Mark’s Square, you can enjoy your meal while being entertained by Streetmosphere. The food and service are great. The branzino was our favorite, and they make the tiramisu tableside.
MOTT 32 (CHINESE, 💰💰💰💰)
Ate here a couple of years ago but wasn’t impressed, but apparently, we missed out on the Peking duck, which you have to order 24 hours in advance. From what we hear from our food-loving friends in town, that is the highlight.
X-POT (CHINESE, 💰💰💰💰)
Asian food on the strip is next-level terrible, so when you find a place that’s good, it’s a true gem. See more details above.
BOUCHON (FRENCH, 💰💰💰)
It’s hard to go wrong with Thomas Keller’s restaurants. We’ve gone to Bouchon a handful of times and really like his take on chicken and waffles with bacon and chives. Although, lately, I feel like the quality has gone downhill and doesn’t seem up to Chef Keller standards.
ESTIATORIO MILOS (GREEK, 💰💰💰💰)
This is one of the newest restaurants in the Venetian. They have the best prix fixe lunch at only $38, where you get an appetizer, main, and dessert.
All Restaurants at the VENETIAN Grand Canal Shoppes
Here is a list of all the restaurants at the Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes.
- The Alley (Bubble Tea, 💰💰)
- Brera Osteria (Italian, 💰💰)
- Buddy V’s Ristorante (Italian, 💰💰)
- Cafe Pan (Creperies, 💰)
- Canaletto (Italian, 💰💰)
- Canonita (Mexican 💰💰)
- Carlos Bakery (Bakery, 💰💰)
- Casanova (Italian, 💰💰)
- CHICA (Latin American, 💰💰)
- Chipotle (Mexican, 💰)
- Cocolini (Coffee/Tea/Gelato, 💰💰)
- Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Coffee & Tea, 💰)
- CR Creat (Cofee & Sandwiches, 💰💰)
- Curry Pot, Food Court (Indian, 💰💰)
- CUT (Steakhouse, 💰💰💰💰)
- Fat Tuesday (Bars, 💰💰)
- Fire of Brazil (Barbeque, 💰)
- Flight Club Social Darts (Bars, 💰💰)
- Grimaldi’s (Pizza, 💰💰💰)
- Illy Caffe (Coffee & Tea, 💰)
- Johnny Rockets (Burgers, 💰💰)
- LAVO Italian Restaurant (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Le Macaron (Macarons, 💰💰)
- Lobster ME (Seafood, 💰💰)
- Panda Express (Chinese, 💰)
- Pizzeria Pronto (Pizza, 💰)
- Popeyes (Chicken, 💰)
- Prime Burger (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Rockhouse (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Royal Britannia Gastro Pub (Pub, 💰💰)
- San Gennaro Burger (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Sloan’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ice Cream, 💰)
- Smith & Wollensky (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- Social Life Pizza (Pizza, 💰💰)
- Subway (Sandwiches, 💰)
- Sushi Samba (Asian Fusion, 💰💰💰)
- Tacos N’ Ritas (Mexican, 💰💰)
- TAO Asian Bistro & Nightclub (Asian, 💰💰💰)
- Trattoria Reggiano (Italian, 💰💰)
- Trustworthy Brewing (Brewpub, 💰💰)
- Villa Azur (Supper Clubs, 💰💰💰)
- X-Pot (Chinese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Zeppola Cafe (Bakeries, 💰)
All Restaurants at the VENETIAN Las Vegas
Here is a list of all the restaurants in the Venetian Casino.
- Black Tap (Burgers, 💰💰)
- Bonanno’s (Italian, 💰)
- Bouchon Bouchon Bakery (Bakery, 💰)
- Cafe Pan (Crepes, 💰)
- Chica (Latin American, 💰💰)
- CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- Delmonico Steakhouse (Steak, 💰💰💰💰)
- The Dorsey (Cocktail Bar, 💰💰💰)
- Eat’s Italian (Vegetarian/Italian, 💰💰)
- Electra Cocktail Club (Cocktail Bars, 💰💰💰)
- Estiatorio Milos (Greek, 💰💰💰)
- Grand Lux Cafe (American, 💰💰)
- Hong Kong Cafe (Noodles, 💰💰)
- JuiceFarm (Juice Bars, 💰💰)
- Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano (Italian, 💰💰💰)
- Miznon (Mediterranean, 💰)
- Mott 32 (Chinese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Noodle Asia (Dim Sum, 💰💰)
- Rosina (Cocktail Bar, 💰💰)
- San Gennaro Burger (Fast Food, 💰💰)
- SPRITZ (Southern, 💰💰)
- Starbucks (Coffee, 💰)
- Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill (Tapas, 💰💰💰)
- Tacos & Ritas (Mexican, 💰💰)
- Truth & Tonic (Brunch, 💰💰)
- Wakuda (Japanese, 💰💰💰💰)
- Yardbird Southern Table & Bar (Southern, 💰💰)
The Venetian Happy Hour Deals
- BRERA Osteria
Daily: 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Enjoy 50% off Pizza, Cocktails, Beer, and Wines by the glass at this vibrant Italian restaurant in the heart of St. Mark’s Square. - Buddy V’s Ristorante
Monday- Friday 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Happy Hour the Italian way with beverages and small bites available in the bar and lounge. - Canaletto
Daily: 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Quality Italian cuisine and amazing ambiance serve as the backdrop for this happy hour available at the bar and bar tables. - estiatorio Milos
Daily: 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Savor fresh seafood and specialty cocktails from the Midday Menu available exclusively at the bar. - Mercato Della Pescheria
Daily: 3:00PM – 6:00PM
Enjoy Hand Crafted Cocktails, Bubbles, and Small Bites while relishing in the atmosphere of St. Mark’s Square. - Rockhouse
Thursday & Friday: 11:00Am – 7:00PM
$5 Cocktails and Beer at everyone’s favorite adult playground. - Royal Britannia Gastropub
Daily: 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Cheers to $5 Draft Beer Specials, Half-Off Specialty Cocktails, and Food Specials with Gastro-American flare served daily. - Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill
Daily: 3:00PM – 6:00PM
Kick bar at the bar with draft beer or wines by the glass and choose from a variety of tapas style dishes for a snack. - Sushisamba
Sunday – Friday: 3:00PM – 6:00PM
Enjoy sushi bar and hot kitchen menu specials while you sip signature cocktails and sake, inside the beauty of the Tree Bar. - Trustworthy Brewing Co. & BBQ
Daily: 3:00PM – 6:00PM
$2 Off Drink Specials and 50% off Select Appetizers serve up the perfect afternoon pick me up that you don’t want to miss.
Essential Tips
- Parking is free at The Venetian and Palazzo. The Venetian parking connects you to the center of the Grand Canal Shoppes near the food court, whereas the Palazzo parking takes you to the backside of the shops near X-Pot.
- Visit during the morning and weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Reservations always help for food spots, especially during the weekends.
Best Places to Stay
We’ve stayed at the Venetian or Palazzo 4 times, and it’s one of our favorite places to stay on the strip. The rooms are spacious, and there’s so much to do on their property to fill an entire trip.
On our recent stay, we checked out a Luxury Grand One Bedroom King Suite which was amazing. You get your own bar, and beautiful living room area, and the bathroom is massive.
If you’re looking for other hotel options nearby, check out the map below.
Have you been to the Venetian? What is your favorite shop or restaurant at the Grand Canal Shoppes?
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Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Eearth Travel, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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