Las Vegas continues to be a city that looks ahead and moves forward. Recent months have seen the arrival of great new attractions, but there is still more to come with new hotels, restaurants, and other fun stuff on the way. It’s an exciting time for Sin City! Check out the latest things to do — and what’s coming in the months ahead.
Brightline West High-Speed Rail
It’s finally happening! Brightline West has broken ground on a new high-speed rail that will speed passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga in just two hours and 10 minutes, half of the normal drive time! Travelers will zoom along the 218-mile, all-electric rail from the flagship station in Las Vegas to stops in Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Rancho Cucamonga— where passengers can connect to Southern California’s Metrolink Service and Downtown LA. Brightline West is optimistically scheduling its high-speed rail to hit the track in time for the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Las Vegas Spaceport
The future belongs to Las Vegas! The Las Vegas Spaceport is one parsec closer to becoming a reality. Clark County officials recently approved the construction of the Las Vegas Executive Airport, which represents phase one of construction for the Las Vegas Spaceport. Although no official completion date is set, the 240-acre site near Area 51 and Pahrump is projected to become the first hub for commercial and private space tourism. Plans include a launchpad and runaway for spaceplanes, a control tower, a flight school, and a 200-room resort/casino. The Spaceport will also invest in the future with a post-high school STEM academy that promises students an education in advanced technologies and internships with companies housed at the Las Vegas Space Center.
LVXP Entertainment and Lifestyle Venue
The experience-focused real-estate developer LVXP announced that they will transform the long-empty 27-acre site on Las Vegas Boulevard and the former home of the classic Wet ’n Wild waterpark into a multi-billion entertainment and lifestyle venue. The new mega-complex will feature a retail center, casinos, and a 2500-room luxury resort. The state-of-the-art development will be anchored by a sports arena that could become the home for a new NBA Franchise.
A's Baseball Moves To Vegas
Las Vegas moves one step closer to hosting A’s baseball with the closure and imminent end-of-year demolition of the Tropicana. Despite this, the ambitious plan to build a baseball stadium and entertainment complex on the former Tropicana site is still years in the future, with many experts predicting the A’s won’t have their shiny new home until at least 2028. But Vegas baseball fans still have reason to celebrate. Recent reports have the A’s taking the field in Sin City sooner rather than later, as the team is expected to play some of their 2025 home games in Summerlin at the stadium of their Triple-A affiliate, the Las Vegas Aviators.
John Wick Experience
AREA15 recently announced that it will team up with Lionsgate Films to add the “John Wick Experience” to its campus later this year. A much-anticipated addition to its already extensive line-up of immersive entertainment options, AREA15’s proposed 12,000-square-foot attraction will aim to be a cinematic experience perfect for fans of the blockbuster franchise. An interactive journey complete with scenes and settings from the Wick universe, the upcoming attraction will also feature curated events and experiences, a themed bar, a retail venue, entertainment, and more.
Pinky Ring
Pinky Ring is the newest addition to the Bellagio’s luxe bar and lounge repertoire. Formerly the Lily Bar and Lounge, Pinky Ring aims to mix high-end glamour and quality entertainment for a one-of-a-kind party experience. Curated by pop superstar Bruno Mars, everything from the lounge’s premium cocktail collection to its line-up of live musicians and DJs is designed to entertain guests with an immersive–and uniquely Vegas–experience. Discover Pinky Ring and more unforgettable Las Vegas lounges
Sphere
After a long wait, the Sphere is finally open, generating headlines worldwide with a debut residency by U2. The shows take full advantage of the venue’s massive high-definition wraparound video wall, which creates new virtual environments from song to song. Another presentation, “Postcard From Earth” is a 50-minute movie from Academy Award-nominated director Darren Aronofsky, which shows immersive scenes from the globe’s seven continents with science-fiction touches. Formerly known as MSG Sphere, the 500-foot-wide, 360-foot-tall spherical concert arena also has digital screens plastered on the band exterior. The Sphere is moving concerts and other events into a new era with internet access at every seat and sound beamed individually to each spectator.
Fontainebleau
The Fontainebleau is finally officially open! It’s the tallest building in Las Vegas (not counting The Strat observation tower), stands 67 stories tall, and has nearly 4,000 hotel rooms. The project adds new life to the north end of the Strip with its extensive lineup of restaurants, shops, convention space, and casino games. The resort follows the legacy of the original Fontainebleau in Miami Beach, reflecting South Florida’s nightlife scene, most notably with its new version of LIV Nightclub. Post Malone was the first artist to perform at the resort, taking the stage at the 3,800-seat BleauLive Theater for a pair of New Year’s Eve weekend concerts.
Atomic Range
Topgolf proved that driving golf balls could be an all-encompassing social activity that mixes booze, food, and entertainment. Atomic Range follows suit with a similar concept at The Strat. More than 100 bays will cover four floors in a massive 99,000-square-foot complex. Order drinks from one of six bars and test your golf skills with 10 putting bays. Book a luxury suite for large parties on the top levels and view the action on a four-story, crystal-clear digital screen. Atomic Range will have a prime location alongside Las Vegas Boulevard and a dedicated parking lot.
Cheri
The rooftop lounge known as Chateau is transforming into Cheri. Guests can still enjoy the Bellagio fountains, drinks from two bars, decorative garden-themed scenery, and timeless chandeliers. However, its image will be more modern with live musicians and dancers augmenting the DJ’s performance. Cheri’s 9,000-square-foot venue is managed by the team behind neighboring Beer Park, JRS Hospitality, and will offer a unique experience thanks to its sophisticated design by Campbell House which effortlessly mixes the aesthetic of both Paris and Las Vegas.
Peter Luger Steak House
Peter Luger Steakhouse, a legendary institution in New York since 1887, has opened a third U.S. location (and first outside New York) at Caesars Palace. The restaurant takes over the old Rao’s space, mixing modern touches with the classic Bavarian aesthetic of the Brooklyn original. Prime cuts will be dry-aged on-site at Caesars Palace. Peter Luger is known for its shareable Porterhouse, thick-cut bacon, stiff martinis, and “cash-only” policy, which, fortunately, is being waived in Las Vegas.
DiscoShow
Spiegelworld unleashes its latest Las Vegas show, scheduled to debut in the summer of 2024. DiscoShow will stage performances in the Glitterloft at The LINQ promenade with a bar and diner rounding out the experience. The show is based on the 1970s disco era. And if other Spiegelworld hits (Absinthe, Atomic Saloon, and OPM) are an indication, DiscoShow will offer a series of acts, such as a twisted, raunchy variety show. Spiegelworld also has a deal with Caesars Palace for new concepts as well.
CrashNBurn & Aero Vegas
A new attraction promises a two-for-one experience on Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. CrashNBurn is a bar and restaurant inspired by high-energy, heart-pounding thrill seekers. An early rendering even had a simulated plane crash on the roof. After hours, CrashNBurn turns into a 21-and-over nightclub. Aero Vegas is the second component. The thrill ride allows participants to simulate skydiving without jumping out of an airplane. You’ll get to enjoy the excitement while soaking in spectacular Las Vegas views.
BrewDog
BrewDog is a bar, restaurant, and lounge where craft beer is paired with great views. The new hangout (based on a concept founded in Scotland) occupies the third and fourth floors of the Showcase Mall and has a wraparound rooftop deck to soak in the spectacular scenery of the Strip. Nearly a hundred taps are on standby, that pour a multitude of beers and other drinks that match Brewdog’s full menu of tacos, salads, pizzas, and other bites. Go upscale with an oak-grilled Ribeye, lobster-topped French Fries, or a $150 Wagyu burger. Continue to stay busy with a turn at shuffleboard or a vintage arcade game. BrewDog produces its beer on-site in small batches, making it just one of two breweries on the Strip along with Trustworthy at the Venetian.
Universal Horror Unleashed
Every day will be Halloween in Las Vegas when Universal Horror Unleashed opens at AREA15. Universal Studios theme parks and the team behind Hollywood Horror Nights are conjuring a year-round haunted attraction filled with frights inspired by classic horror movies. The attraction will be the final resting place of several haunted bars and the main tenant of the 20-acre expansion at AREA15. Universal Studios is behind the classics Dracula, Wolfman, and Frankenstein as well as newer hits like The Purge, Chucky, and Psycho… Expect a jaw-dropping, immersive experience that gives you goosebumps and will send a chill up your spine!
Ghostbar
Everything old is new again, especially at the Palms Resort and Casino, which is reviving numerous concepts. The reopening of Ghostbar, which had a brief incarnation as Apex Social Club, is a spectacular space on the 55th floor of the Palms. The panoramic views of the Strip alone are worth the price of admission. The new version of Ghostbar has renovated decor, an all-new cocktail program including bottle service, and a revamped entertainment lineup. Dance all night to the latest DJ or come on weekends to enjoy the soul and funk with the live music of Dee Miles and her “Midnight Skye” show. You’ll find comfortable seating in the main lounge and or dance the night away under the stars on the outdoor patio.
Awakening
Awakening is a tale of separated lovers inspired by classic elements of Cirque and touches of science fiction that follows our heroine on a fantastic journey fantastic journey of colorful costumes, puppetry, and mystifying special effects. No expense has been spared, from a state-of-the-art sound system to create 3D audio miracles or the enlistment of Academy Award-winning actor Sir Anthony Hopkins to voice the narration. Performances are Friday-Tuesday at 7 p.m., with an additional 9:30 p.m. performance on Fridays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays. Check ticket prices and availability.
Swingers
You’ve heard of mini golf. Now it’s time for “crazy golf.” The provocatively named Swingers golf course is set to open at Mandalay Bay, offering a fun adults-only take on mini golf with five themed courses over three levels in a 40,000-square-foot space. The idea first became a hit in London, featuring caddies that deliver craft cocktails and street food available for purchase near various holes. Two other U.S. locations are in New York and Washington, D.C.
Princess Diana: A Tribute Exhibition
A 10,000 square-foot-exhibit hall dedicated to the legacy of Princess Diana is on the top level inside the Shops at Crystals. The attraction by SBX Group and SEE Global Entertainment brings together historical artifacts, designer fashions, and personal items curated over more than 45 years. It’s one of the largest collections of British Royal memorabilia in the world. Guests can explore 12 themed rooms, including “Wedding of the Century,” “Fashion Icon” and “Gone Too Soon: A Memorial.”
Horseshoe Las Vegas
The Horseshoe now occupies the property formerly known as Bally’s (and an older version of the MGM Grand before that). Renovated and rebranding without an implosion, the new casino resort has new restaurants like Jack Binion’s Steak and Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Sports Kitchen. The Horseshoe is also the main home of the World Series of Poker, staking a claim as a destination for the gambling crowd. Work isn’t done yet. The Grand Bazaar Shops out front are being revamped to include two multi-story bars: Bottled Blonde and Blake Shelton’s Ole Red honky tonk. And that’s not all. The property’s south tower will become part of the adjoining Paris casino with renovations and balconies added.
Montecristo Cigar Bar
Photo: Mohd Jon Ramlan/Unsplash
After finding success at Caesars Palace, a second edition of the Montecristo Cigar Bar is opening across Las Vegas Boulevard at the Paris resort. Taking over the place formerly known as Napolean’s Lounge, the new 2,835-square-foot venue will be equipped with a state-of-the-art ventilation system to comfortably enjoy a choice from more than 300 brands displayed in a climate-controlled walk-in humidor. A bar will serve spirits to match the flavor and character of your cigar.
The Plaza
The Plaza Hotel has dramatically renovated its iconic facade on Main Street west of the Fremont Street Experience. Guests can now visit an outdoor Carousel Bar under the Plaza’s famous dome, a revamped smoke-free casino floor, a rooftop patio at Oscar’s steakhouse, and an all-new Pinkbox Doughnuts, which has a 16-foot-long glass display case to show off more than 70 different treats.
Mad Apple
Cirque du Soleil unveiled Mad Apple as its first new Las Vegas production since the pandemic. The show, based on the nightlife and entertainment scene of New York City, took over the old Zumanity theater at — appropriately enough — the New York-New York resort. The show is a hybrid, smaller in scope than traditional Strip productions with live musicians performing pop music staples and comedians (including established names like Brad Williams) doing traditional stand-up routines. You’ll still see a few acrobats, but not as many as in your average Cirque production. Check ticket prices and availability.
Durango by Station Casinos
Station Casino’s latest property the Durango Resort is now open. The luxurious resort is a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces with a 211-room hotel tower, pool, casino, water features, and at least four major restaurants, including the indulgent, Eat Your Heart Out food hall and Mijo Modern Mexican, which has a hidden cocktail lounge, Wax Rabbit.
Vanderpump a Paris
It’s hard to ignore the success of Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, a photogenic lounge at Caesars Palace that always seems to have lines outside the host stand. So why not try it again? Vanderpump à Paris is now open inside the Paris casino as the latest Las Vegas venture by British restaurateur and Bravo television personality Lisa Vanderpump. Expect to see an equally stylish cocktail spot, but with a Parisian flair that includes statues, awnings, and custom light fixtures.
Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime is now open as the flagship tenant at 63, a new multi-level plaza in the footprint of the deconstructed Harmon Tower at CityCenter. The restaurant mixes old-school vibes with a spectacular tree-lined patio overlooking Las Vegas Boulevard. Specialties include charbroiled steaks, fresh seafood, and delicious sushi rolls. 63 also has a gift shop, Fat Tuesday Daiquiri Bar, and a Ross Dress For Less with the interactive Museum of Illusions and Arte Museum on the way. Unless you park at the neighboring Aria or Cosmopolitan, you’ll have to use the valet service off Harmon Avenue.
Electric Pickle
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Think of it as a casual combination of tennis, ping pong, and badminton. Now, it’s coming to The Bend, a new outdoor shopping and dining complex in the burgeoning southwest valley that may open in phases, beginning in 2024. Electric Pickle will cover three acres with nine pickleball courts and a two-story restaurant with a rooftop bar. There will also be a lawn for live music and courts for cornhole and bocce ball.
The Bedford
The Bedford, a new restaurant by Martha Stewart, is now open in the Paris casino, replacing the shuttered Martorano’s. The writer and multimedia magnate built her reputation on entertaining, posh events, and the culinary arts but has never actually put her name behind a restaurant before. That changes now with the Bedford, a relatively intimate space with less than 200 seats. Stewart’s own New York farmhouse inspires the decor, while the menu is crafted with fresh ingredients by independent producers.
Gipsy
Gipsy has made a fabulous comeback in Las Vegas. The gay nightclub was a party spot in the ’80s in the Fruit Loop district east of the Strip, attracting celebrities and LGBTQ+ clientele in an era when coming out wasn’t widely accepted. Gipsy suffered setbacks, including fire and botched renovation on the TV show Bar Rescue before closing. It was demolished and a new version has risen from the ashes offering both Las Vegas visitors and tourists not only just the city’s LGBTQ+ premiere nightclub but an entertainment destination for all.
The English Hotel
Celebrity chef Todd English has been busy in Las Vegas, putting his name behind the first hotel in the Downtown Arts District in collaboration with developer Z Life. The boutique resort has 74 rooms, a pool, and the Pepper Club, a seafood and sushi restaurant. There is no casino, but the rooms have a cozy, sophisticated touch with stylish decor and cocktail bars.
Formula 1
Formula 1 racing is one of the hottest sports in the world right now. So, of course, Las Vegas is getting in on the act. The Las Vegas Grand Prix joined the FIA Formula One World Championship with a nighttime race on November 18, 2023. The track was nearly four miles long, traveling down the Strip and nearby streets with speeds topping more than 212 miles per hour and 50 laps. The old Ice nightclub on Koval was torn down for permanent Formula 1 facilities, so we can all look forward to the sport having a long-term presence in Sin City. Formula 1 returns to the Las Vegas Strip in 2024!
Palms
Everything old is new again. After difficult times during the pandemic, Station Casinos sold the property to Native American gaming developer San Manuel (which operates the Yaamava casino in Southern California). The Palms is enjoying new life with upgrades to the famed GhostBar Lounge, the return of restaurants like Mabel’s BBQ and Scotch 80 Prime, and newcomers like La Popular, an import from Mexico City.
Boring Company People Mover
Elon Musk’s The Boring Company has unveiled a futuristic “people mover” underneath the new Las Vegas Convention Center expansion. The project uses autonomous electric Tesla vehicles to transport attendees underground, cutting what would otherwise be a 15-minute walk down to a little over a minute. The vehicles have room for both standing and sitting and travel 35-40 miles per hour in a twin tunnel loop system. The transportation project also connects to Resorts World with at least 50 stations planned throughout the Strip and Downtown with an extension to the airport. The next two stations opening this year.
Bleutech Park
An all-digital city? It could happen right here in Las Vegas. Bleutech Park is an ambitious project that promises to combine retail and office space with housing and entertainment. The insular mini-city will be constructed with net-zero buildings, artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy sources. The movement of humans could even be harnessed for electricity and heating services. Will it work? The developers say it could take six years to complete with a price tag of $7.5 billion. They’re aiming to break ground soon but haven’t announced an actual location yet.
