13 Best Shows to See in Las Vegas (Free and Paid)

Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world, and if you're visiting, you don’t want to miss the best shows Las Vegas has to offer. From world-class Cirque du Soleil productions to mind-blowing magic acts, hilarious comedy shows, and must-see residencies by top music artists, there’s something for everyone on the Strip.

I've spent years exploring Vegas entertainment, and I know exactly which shows are worth your time and money.

Whether you're looking for the best Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas, a top-rated magic show, or a VIP experience with A-list performers, I’ve got you covered. Some productions, like O by Cirque du Soleil, redefine acrobatics with stunning water-based performances, while magicians like David Copperfield and Shin Lim leave audiences speechless. If laughter is what you’re after, comedy icons such as Carrot Top and Brad Garrett deliver non-stop laughs. And for music lovers, Vegas is home to spectacular residencies featuring superstars like Adele, Usher, and Bruno Mars.

In this guide, I’ll break down the top Las Vegas shows by category, helping you choose the perfect experience for your visit. Whether you're after a family-friendly show, a romantic date night, or a high-energy production, you’ll find everything you need right here. Let’s dive into the ultimate Las Vegas entertainment guide.

Best Paid Shows in Las Vegas

In this first section we are going to focus on the legendary shows that you can enjoy in the city (the order is purely random), below you will find a little chapter with the free options.

shows in las vegas

1. O by Cirque du Soleil

O by Cirque du Soleil is a unique aquatic show that will transport you to a world of visual fantasy, where water plays a fundamental role. Located at the Bellagio , the show is a masterpiece of dance, acrobatics, theatre and special effects in a gigantic swimming pool . The artists perform jumps and acrobatics in the water , while the stage changes shape and adapts to the scenes, offering a truly immersive show.

Fun fact: its name is the sound of the word “eau” (water in French).

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Bellagio Hotel & Casino
O by Cirque du Soleil Ticket

2. Vegas, The Show

Vegas, The Show is an exaltation of the splendor and glamour of the golden days of Las Vegas . The aim is to pay tribute to music and the great protagonists of the Vegas music scene, with a cast of dancers and singers who perform classic jazz, pop and legends such as Elvis and Tina Turner.

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Saxe Theater
Vegas Entrance, The Show

3. Mystere by Cirque du Soleil

One of Cirque du Soleil's most iconic shows, Mystère is a celebration of life and the mysteries of human existence . First performed in 1993, it is a permanent show at the Treasure Island Hotel & Casino. The energy of the dancers and acrobats is non-stop, and the comedic and playful tone makes Mystère a fun and accessible show for all ages .

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Treasure Island Hotel & Casino
Mystery Entry

Things to do

4. Awakening

Another of the best shows in Las Vegas is Awakening, a production that fuses dance, magic and advanced technology , with special effects and light shows. The plot revolves around a heroine, who embarks on a journey to restore balance in a world divided between light and darkness. Throughout the adventure, she explores magical realms while facing challenges and encountering fantastic creatures , all in search of universal harmony.

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Wynn Las Vegas
Awakening Entry

5. KÀ by Cirque du Soleil

KÀ is one of Cirque du Soleil 's largest and most complex productions . It takes place at the MGM Grand , and tells the epic story of two twins who embark on an adventure filled with excitement, martial arts, and visual effects. The most innovative aspect of KÀ is its gigantic stage , which can tilt, rotate, and rise , creating different heights and levels during scenes, allowing for spectacular acrobatics, combat fights, and visual effects.

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
KÀ Entry

KA Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas

Things to do

6. Blue Man Group

The Blue Man Group, located at the Luxor, is a one-of-a-kind, interactive show where 3 “ blue men ” create a work of art with experimental music, visual art and a dose of absurd comedy . The coolest thing is that the audience becomes part of the show , being invited to interact in surprising and fun ways.

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Luxor Hotel & Casino
Blue Man Group Entrance

7. The Mentalist

The Mentalist, starring Gerry McCambridge , is a magic show, mixed with psychology and telepathy . The man demonstrates his abilities to read minds, predict thoughts and perform mental illusion tricks that leave audiences speechless.

Duration: 75 minutes
Location: V Theater
The Mentalist Entry

8. Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil

Are you a Michael Jackson fan? Then there's no doubt that Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil is the one for you. This mind-blowing show pays homage to the legendary artist's musical legacy , with choreography, acrobatics and visual effects that highlight some of his greatest hits. Songs like Thriller , Billie Jean and Beat It are reinterpreted in the unmistakable Cirque du Soleil style that catches everyone's attention.

Duration: 90 minutes
Location: Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
Michael Jackson ONE entrance

Extra: The Sphere

Opened in 2023, this unique, sphere-shaped stadium stands out for its futuristic design and cutting-edge technology . It is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system and its special effects are impressive. The best thing about it is undoubtedly the 360º screen , which makes the experience as immersive as possible. If you have the chance to attend a concert here, don't hesitate.

The Sphere

Best Free shows and performances in Las Vegas

Are the shows we just recommended out of your budget? Don't be sad: there are several free entertainment options that are well worth it. Here are some of the best free shows in Las Vegas:

9 - Bellagio Fountains: A synchronized water, music and light show, where the fountains dance to classical and modern melodies, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates spectators. It takes place every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes at night.
10 - Fremont Street Experience: Free outdoor show with a stunning giant LED screen that projects visual spectacles accompanied by immersive music and live entertainment, transforming the street into a vibrant stage. It takes place every hour at night, depending on the schedule.
11 - Mirage Volcano: A volcanic eruption is simulated here, where fire, water and music combine in a spectacular visual and sound experience. It takes place every 30 minutes from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
12 - The Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas - A unique visual experience on a small lake, where lights, music and animated puppets create a relaxing and surreal atmosphere. They do this every half hour at night.
13 - The Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace : This recreation tells the story of the fall of the mythical city of Atlantis, with visual effects, fountains and animated statues that captivate the audience. It takes place every 30 minutes from 12:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Did you like our recommendations? Do you know any other Las Vegas shows that you think are a must ? Do you know any other free shows?

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