Las Vegas shows - Ticket Tips, Highlights, Discount Ideas for Sin City's Greatest

Gawdy, fun Las Vegas is not just a gambler's paradise or a place for a quick wedding or divorce. It is one of the world's top entertainment venues, with dozens of shows for every taste.

Story By Christene Meyers

Photos by Bruce Keller

"The Carpe Diem Kids"

Las Vegas is famous worldwide for its dazzling entertainment.

There are so many choices, it's dazzling. We're regulars in this exciting city and our latest 10-show visit proved "Sin City" lives up to its reputation as the greatest show place on Earth.

From the days of Liberace and the Rat Pack, the city's entertainment has blossomed to offer dozens of music, comedy, tribute and acrobatic spectacles.

There's plenty for first-timers to choose from, and an ongoing mix of new shows for regulars.

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"Wow!" at Rio Las Vegas features world class acrobats in astonishing feats.

We joined Las Vegas show goers in packed houses for an exciting variety. Sin City offers something for everyone -- families, couples, generations, singles -- in a mix of spectacular performances.

Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers before "Potted Potter," a parody featuring two gifted actors playing multiple roles with flourish.

There are deals to be had, but you have to do some homework.

Try these websites for discounts and bargains: SmarterVegas.com; Vegas.com and BestofVegas.com

Check out hotel deals, too, such as GMG Rewards and Caesars Rewards. Consider visiting in summer (June through August) when temperatures are high but prices are much lower.

Here are some recommendations from our recent whirlwind 10-show visit:

We saw two fun parodies: "Potted Potter" at the Horseshoe is a brilliantly done parody with two gifted actors playing many characters with flair and flourish, accents and a whiz-bang retinue of costume changes.

The clever "The Empire Strips Back" is on tap at the Rio, a boldly burlesque take on "Star Wars," a rhythmic, risqué romp.

We saw a pair of fabulous variety shows and a delightful drag show with sassy, sexy "girls" in "RuPaul Drag Race LIVE" at the Flamingo.

"The Empire Strips Back" at the Rio is a fast moving, lavishly costumed burlesque take on "Star Wars."

We recommend a high energy male revue with "Chippendales" at Planet Hollywood. The fellas dance in perfect synch, cavort on motorcycles and flirt in cowboy hats, bending beautiful bodies seductively to the delight of screaming single girls.

3 Chippendale actors as cowboys

Chippendale naked on motorcycle on stage

2 Chippendale singers on stage

• We witnessed new Cirque de Soleil marvels and spectacular production shows with casts of dozens. "Wow!" at the Rio is truly amazing, a dazzling old-fashioned style revue with acrobats, dancers, jugglers and a crossbow archer, 3D projections, holograms and stunning choreography propel it into the 21st Century.

  

  One of the top rated shows in Las Vegas is "Rouge" at the Strat Theater, a sexy, elegant and often funny show with specialty acts, beautiful dancers and a very funny emcee.

• "Rouge" at the Strat Theater is the hottest adult show, a sexy, beautifully choreographed production, jazzy music, elegant topless dancers and a hilarious commentary by a naughty emcee with an over-the-top southern accent.

• Mat Franco's magic show at the Linq is jaw-dropping.

• "How'd he do that?" echoed through the showroom as the America's Got Talent winner charmed a full house. Showy tricks and winning improv humor creates the best magic show we've seen in decades.

Mat Franco's magic show is a brilliant blend of tricks, showmanship and his clever ad lib humor. It's a fabulous choice for couples, families, singles, generations.

Our overview at whereiscookie.com spotlights some of the best shows that make Las Vegas a must-visit destination for entertainment lovers. Whether you are a fan of magic, acrobatics, music or comedy, Las Vegas offers an unforgettable and engaging mix of experiences to captivate audiences night after night.

"Wow!" is just that -- wow! Dancing, acrobats, beautiful bodies, music, comedy, spectacle. A top choice.

More Magic in Las Vegas Shows

• Another standout is David Copperfield, whose performances blend storytelling with illusions. His show at the MGM Grand is a good choice for families and those seeking a blend of classic and modern magic.

• Penn & Teller at the Rio are a delight. Their unique style mixes comedy with magic, offering a fresh take on illusions. Their show is both entertaining and thought-provoking, a favorite for those who enjoy a serving of wit with their magic.

Cirque du Soleil’s Unmatched Acrobatics

Cirque du Soleil continues to dazzle with its mesmerizing blend artistry and athleticism. The world-renowned company has several resident shows in Las Vegas, each with its own theme and style. "O" is our favorite, at the Bellagio, featuring breathtaking water-based performances combining synchronized swimming, diving and aerial acrobatics.

• Another popular Cirque show is "Mystère" at Treasure Island. It offers a vibrant mix of powerful acrobatics, colorful costumes, and lively music. The show’s energy and creativity thrill audiences of all ages.

Musical Performances and Tribute Shows

"Awakening" at the Wynn, narrated by actor Anthony Hopkins, is a gorgeous, high-tech show.

Las Vegas hosts a variety of musical performances, from residencies by famous artists to tributes celebrating legendary musicians.

We've seen Adele, Lady Gaga, & Bruno Mars bring their chart-topping hits.

We've stood in standing ovation for Cher, Bette Midler and Elton John at the Colosseum in Caesar's. Backstreet Boys and the Eagles join the roster of long-running residencies in Las Vegas. Jennifer Lopez returns to the Colosseum in March and Cyndi Lauper plays there in April.

• We love nostalgia and tribute shows. "Legends in Concert" offer high-quality impersonations of icons like Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. For the "real thing," book Wayne Newton, 83, who croons at Bugsy's in the Flamingo. He's still singing "Danke Schoen," which launched him into stardom.

RuPaul's "girls" are beautifully dressed female impersonators, live and in spectacular costumes.

More Comedy, Variety and Spectacle

• Comedy continues to be a pillar of Las Vegas entertainment. The city attracts top comedians in venues across the Strip. Shows by comedians like Carrot Top and Terry Fator combine humor with ventriloquism and prop comedy. experiences.

• We've enjoyed Absinthe at Caesars Palace offering a blend of adult comedy, circus acts, and burlesque. An intimate setting and edgy humor make it popular with visitors looking for something new.

  
  

• For a completely stunning experience, head to Wynn for a 360-degree spectacle, "Awakening." It's high-tech sci-fi, a good vs. evil story narrated by actor Anthony Hopkins, with an athletic heroine, delightful dancing and breathtaking acrobatics.

Strollers in Las Vegas mill around the Flamingo, one of the few remaining Las Vegas "old time" hotels. The casino resort is hosting both RuPaul's Drag Race LIVE and perennial favorite singer Wayne Newton.

Tips for Enjoying Las Vegas Shows

To make the most of your Las Vegas show experience, consider these practical tips:

• Book tickets in advance: Popular shows often sell out quickly, especially during holidays and weekends.

• Check show times and durations: Plan your evening to include dinner or other activities around the show schedule.

• Choose seats wisely: Front-row or center seats offer the best views but can be pricier. Balcony seats still provide a great experience at a lower cost.

• Arrive early: Give yourself time to find your seat and enjoy the venue atmosphere.

• Look for package deals and discounts: Some hotels and ticket vendors offer discounts when you book multiple shows or combine shows with dining.

  
  

Why Las Vegas Shows Stand Out

Las Vegas shows stand out because of their high production values, talented performers, and variety. The city invests heavily in creating immersive environments with stunning sets, lighting, and sound to make every show feels like a special event.

Las Vegas attracts top talent from around the world. Performers often tailor their acts specifically for the city’s audience, blending glamour, excitement, and innovation. We visit often and find entertainment fresh and exciting year after year.

Planning Your Entertainment in Las Vegas and Beyond

Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge carries US 93 across the Colorado River and with a walking bridge as seen from Hoover Dam, an easy side trip from Las Vegas.

Now's the time to experience Las Vegas shows and consider a side trip to nearby Hoover Dam. Weather is temperate -- perfect for hiking close to the city or strolling the Strip, while summers can be hot. Many productions offer special performances or themed events during holidays, spring breaks, etc. Here are tips for planning your visit:

• Check websites to book and look for discounts and packages that include show tickets and dining options. We use VEGAS.com and Tix4

• Consider attending multiple shows to experience the variety of styles.

• Explore shows off the Strip, too, for unique and intimate performances.

• Check whereiscookie.com for up-to-date recommendations on Las Vegas and other global destinations.

  
  

Las Vegas’s entertainment scene is always evolving, so staying informed helps you catch the best performances during your trip.

UP NEXT: We take readers to the Sphere in Las Vegas which has to be seen to be believed.

It's a huge multi-billion-dollar massive cutting edge entertainment venue with 3D, stunning special effects and a virtual reality experience. It offers both concerts and movies and its wraparound LED screen and dynamic visuals astound. Remember to explore, learn and live and check back here often.

The Sphere in Las Vegas is a dazzling, constantly changing attraction which cost $2.3 billion to build.