Entertainment
Las Vegas Travel in 2021: 10 COVID-Safe Activities You Can Do This Year
Let’s state the obvious—2020 was a doozy.
Several Las Vegas hotels put up special light displays to show their support during COVID shutdowns in early 2020.
Between hours of Zoom meetings, daily sweatpants-wearing, and eating too much takeout, we all got to know our living rooms a bit too well over the past year. And that’s without mentioning all the cancelled trips.
With 2021 here and a vaccine in full effect, we here at Travel Gay Vegas think it’s high time everyone gets back to planning their next getaway and traveling to Las Vegas.
At the same time, we’re taking local public health measures seriously. That’s why we’re sharing this list of 10 COVID-safe activities you can enjoy when you travel to Vegas in 2021. Read on to find out more!
Current COVID Regulations in Las Vegas
January 6th, 2021
The Venetian Resort during the COVID shutdown in March, 2020. As of June 2020, most hotels have reopened with enhanced cleaning and safety procedures.
Before we get to the fun stuff, it’s important to know what to expect when traveling Las Vegas during the COVID pandemic.
For starters, Nevada is on a “statewide pause” until January 15th, 2021. This measure outlines regulations visitors and locals must follow. The most important to note are:
- Masks must be worn inside and outside of buildings
- 25% occupancy at...
- Restaurants
- Bars (only allowed to open if they also serve food)
- Casinos
- Gyms and fitness studios
- Attractions (museums, art galleries, libraries, zoos, aquariums, arcades, racetracks, bowling alleys, mini golf, and theme parks)
- Saunas, adult entertainment establishments, and clubs remain closed.
- Restaurants are opening on a reservation-only basis and no more than four people are allowed at each table.
The following businesses can operate without occupancy limits:
- Retail establishments, including indoor malls
- Hair salons/ barber shops
- Nail salons
- Spas
- Massage establishments
- Body art/piercing establishments
It’s also worth noting that many businesses may have reduced hours or mid-week closures. If you have any doubts or questions, it’s best to call ahead.
Finally, if you want to be notified of virus exposure, you can download the free contract-tracing app COVID Trace from Nevada’s Department of Health and Human Services.
There’s Still Lots to Do in Vegas During COVID
On the surface, it may seem like a lot of Las Vegas is shut down because of COVID. While it’s true that travel to Las Vegas in the COVID-era will look different, there are still plenty of fun and safe things you can do while in Las Vegas in 2021.
Keep reading to discover Travel Gay Vegas’ top picks for your COVID-safe trip to Las Vegas.
1. Explore the Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience offers COVID-safe activities like the SlotZilla Zipline and the Viva Vision light show.
The Fremont Street Experience is must-see when you travel to Vegas—COVID or not. After The Strip, Fremont Street is the most famous street in Vegas. Here, you’ll find bright neon lights and iconic images like Vegas Vic, the cowboy marquee that’s become the unofficial welcome sign of Las Vegas.
In addition to all kinds of neon, the Fremont Street Experience includes attractions like the 11-story SlotZilla Zipline and the Viva Vision light show (shown on the world’s largest LED screen).
If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, have your portrait drawn, grab a local craft beer at Banger Brewing, admire some local street performers, or try your luck at Binion’s penny slots.
Whatever strikes your fancy, you can feel safe at the Fremont Street Experience thanks to the city’s mask mandate, social distancing rules, and plentiful hand sanitizing stations.
2. Catch Some Air At Vegas Indoor Skydiving
COVID restrictions got you down? Fear not, because you can still catch a breath of fresh air at Vegas Indoor Skydiving.
Located right off The Strip, Vegas Indoor Skydiving lets you feel the adrenaline rush of skydiving minus the parachute and plane. Their secret? A 1,000-horsepower motor that generates 100 mph+ wind speeds inside.
The staff is keeping visitors safe by wearing masks, offering hand sanitizer, and cleaning rental equipment and facilities multiple times a day.
3. Check Out The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is the place to go to see old-fashioned Las Vegas signs.
If you love the classic neon signs of old-school Las Vegas, look no further than The Neon Museum. Founded in 1996, The museum’s mission is to preserve, share, and celebrate iconic Las Vegas signs.
While you’re there, walk the Neon Boneyard, an outdoor exhibition space featuring signs from hotels and casinos like Stardust and Caesars.
During COVID, ticket sales are limited to ensure social distancing. Be sure to book ahead.
4. Enjoy Las Vegas From Above On The High Roller Observation Wheel
Get a bird’s eye view of Las Vegas on the High Roller Observation Wheel
For some of the most incredible Vegas views, head to The High Roller Observation Wheel. The High Roller is located at The LINQ Hotel in the heart of The Strip. The giant wheel takes you 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip and gives you 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Valley.
Loading and cleaning procedures have been modified to keep guests safe.
5. Book A Poolside Cabana And Get Bottle Service
Poolside gatherings look different during COVID, but they’re still a great place to relax, tan, and have a drink.
In pre-COVID Vegas, dayclubs were the place to be while the sun was up. Now, these alcohol-soaked pool parties have been replaced by poolside lounges with cabana and lounge chair rentals. The music is a bit lower and the atmosphere is a bit chiller, but you can still enjoy a pricey bottle with friends while soaking up the sun.
All pools require mask-wearing and most have a reservation system in place to control the number of guests.
If you need some recommendations, check out these awesome spots.
6. Take A Ride With Las Vegas Rail Explorers
What better way to escape it all than with an intimate railbike ride with friends or your special someone? The Las Vegas chapter of Rail Explorers offers three tours including The Southwest Ramble, the Sunset Railbike Ride, and the Evening Lantern Ride. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for some great views and a one-of-a-kind experience.
Railbikes are a great COVID-safe option thanks to enhanced cleaning and social distancing protocols.
7. Go On A Walking Tour
Las Vegas offers tons of walking tours. Which one will you choose?
Whatever you’re into—whether it’s classy food, amazing sites, or gorgeous lights, Las Vegas has a walking tour for you.
Food lovers can enjoy a boozy brunch or find hidden gems thanks to Lip Smacking Foodie’s tours. Those looking for a local’s perspective of Vegas should sign up for the original Las Vegas Walking Tour. And for the night owls, check out the Downtown Las Vegas Nighttime Walking Tour.
To keep visitors safe, group sizes are limited and all participants must wear masks.
8. Learn About Vegas History On The Pioneer Trail
If you’re looking for a fun way to play tourist in Vegas but still avoid crowds, check out the Pioneer Trail. This self-guided tour allows you to explore Las Vegas at your own pace.
Download this free map and guide and get ready to see a side of Las Vegas few bother to check out. Along the way, you’ll see the former home of casino magnate Benny Binion, a quirky home referred to as “The Castle,” and a former Mormon settlement.
The best part? All the sites are free.
9. Admire The Bellagio Fountains
Even during COVID closures The Bellagio Fountains are running daily.
Whether you’ve been to Las Vegas once or ten times, you’ve probably stopped by the famous Bellagio Fountains. With more than a thousand fountains shooting water almost 500 feet into the air, this is truly one of the most spectacular COVID-safe activities you can enjoy in 2021.
Shows usually run every 15 minutes at night and every half hour during the day. To keep things COVID-safe, remember to keep more than six feet between yourself and other spectators.
10. Visit The Mob Museum
Uncover the secrets of Las Vegas’ gritty past at The Mob Museum.
Located in the former Las Vegas Post Office and Courthouse, the Mob Museum features artifacts and stories detailing the history of organized crime in the United States.
Get lost in exhibits about mob violence, casino money skimming operations, and bootlegging. When you need a break, head to the password-protected Speakeasy for a drink (with or without alcohol).
You can feel safe at the Speakeasy museum thanks to mandatory temperature checks for all guests, upgraded cleaning protocols, and staggered admittance times.
Start Planning Your 2021 Las Vegas Trip Now
Sure, your 2021 travels to Vegas might not look exactly how you imagined. But if you’re a bit flexible, you’ll be surprised by all the great activities you can enjoy while staying safe and healthy.
And if our list wasn’t enough to convince you, know that now is the best time to see Vegas like it’s never been seen before. Think smaller crowds, more intimate experiences, and great deals.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your 2021 Las Vegas trip today.
