The Best Shows in Las Vegas in 2026: A Complete Guide

What kind of shows are there in Las Vegas

Before we start talking about specific shows, it’s important to know what kinds are available in Las Vegas so you can understand how they work and how to plan when making your choice, since not all of them are available year-round.

The most famous shows are the so-called permanent or resident shows, which are performed on a regular basis at hotels and theaters along the Strip. Some have been running every night for decades! This category includes many of the shows by Cirque du Soleil, major magic shows, and musical productions that can stay on the bill for years. They form the backbone of Las Vegas entertainment and can usually be booked well in advance.

On the other hand, there are also temporary shows and artist residencies, which usually last only a few weeks or months. These types of shows are very common among famous singers and musicians who perform for a limited time at the city’s casinos and auditoriums. In addition to music concerts, you can also find stand-up comedy shows, sporting events, and other small temporary shows that change constantly depending on the time of year and tourist demand.

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Comparison table of the best shows in Las Vegas

If you want to get straight to the point and don't feel like reading the whole post, this table provides a summary of all the shows we recommend, along with their key details (location, price, theme, etc.). Below, we'll give you more details about each one and share some important tips.

The best top rated shows in Las Vegas: Top 10

1. O by Cirque du Soleil

• Where: Bellagio Hotel
• Price: starting at $135; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Age: from 5 years old

“O,” a name derived from the French word “eau” (water), is one of Las Vegas’ most iconic and successful shows. It is performed year-round at the Bellagio, and if you attend, you’ll be immersed in a world of acrobatics, Olympic-level diving, synchronized swimming, dance, and visual effects.

The show takes place on a gigantic pool containing over 5 million liters (1.5 million gallons) of water that is constantly changing. In it, the performers appear and disappear underwater while performing aerial acts and acrobatics, creating a theatrical atmosphere that draws you in amid tides, downpours, and storms.

“O” is often considered the most elegant and spectacular show by Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas. We recommend it if you’re looking for a breathtaking visual experience and one of the city’s most sophisticated productions.

2. The Wizard of Oz

• Where: The Sphere
• Price: starting at $104; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 75 minutes
• Age: all ages, but recommended for ages 6 and up

The Sphere is an innovative entertainment venue that hosts shows, concerts, and other events, and is notable for being the world's largest spherical structure.

Its facade (the Exosphere) is covered in LED screens and projects images and animations that can be seen from miles away. The interior is also impressive, with its enormous LED screen completely enveloping the viewer and creating an immersive experience.

"The Wizard of Oz" is currently playing at The Sphere and is one of the best things to do with kids in Las Vegas, though adults love it too. The 1939 musical classic has been transformed into a 4D show with immersive sound, wind effects, fog, explosions, and scents to transport the audience into the world of Oz. Even the seats are haptic! Ready to walk down the Yellow Brick Road?

3. Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil

• Where: Mandalay Bay
• Price: starting at $129; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Age: from 5 years old

Another of the most acclaimed shows by Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas is Michael Jackson ONE, which runs permanently at Mandalay Bay. The show combines acrobatics, street dance, visual effects, and Michael Jackson’s most iconic music in a high-energy, immersive production.

Unlike other more theatrical shows, this one has a much stronger focus on music and choreography. The story follows four characters who embark on a journey inspired by Michael Jackson as they discover the artist’s iconic objects, weaving in legendary songs like “Beat It,” “Thriller,” and “Billie Jean”.

It stands out for its impressive surround sound system, the projections, and the visual intensity of each scene. We recommend it if you're a Michael Jackson fan or if you're looking for a modern and dynamic experience.

4. Tournament of Kings

• Where: Excalibur
• Price: starting at $75; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Age: all ages

Tournament of Kings is a dinner show in Las Vegas held at the Excalibur Hotel, and it is one of the city’s most classic and family-friendly attractions. Inspired by the legends of King Arthur, it combines medieval combat, jousting, and special effects in an arena set in the style of a medieval castle.

During the show, various knights representing different European kingdoms compete in tournaments and engage in sword fights. The whole experience is designed to get the audience involved, cheering on their knight to victory. In addition, dinner is served in medieval style, so you have to eat with your hands.

Although this show is open to everyone, we especially recommend it for families with children, groups, and travelers looking for a unique and more laid-back experience in Las Vegas. It may not have the visual effects of other big shows on the Strip, but it has plenty of personality and tradition.

5. ROUGE

• Where: The STRAT
• Price: starting at $77; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Age: from 18 years old

ROUGE is one of the most acclaimed adult shows in Las Vegas, blending sensuality, contortion, acrobatics, dance, humor, and music. The show takes place at The STRAT hotel and is inspired by a cabaret, featuring 18 men and women dressed in sensual attire who constantly interact with the audience.

With its lighthearted style, we recommend this show for adults looking for something that’s fun, provocative, and full of variety. Keep in mind that the cast includes dancers, acrobats, comedians, and tightrope walkers, so entertainment is guaranteed.

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6. WOW - The Vegas Spectacular

• Where: Rio Hotel
• Price: starting at $70; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Age: all ages

WOW – The Vegas Spectacular is another of Las Vegas’ most popular shows, as it’s a true visual marvel. It combines acrobatics, magic, dance, and visual effects, featuring numerous aerial acts and an aquatic stage. If you have the Go City Las Vegas tourist card, this show is included in the Explorer and All-Inclusive modalities.

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Here you'll see choreography, jumps, juggling, holograms, 3D multimedia projections, and acrobatics on the water—which might remind you a bit of Cirque du Soleil shows, although in this case the approach is a bit more traditional and the production is more affordable.

This is an ideal option for both families and travelers looking for a visually spectacular show at a lower price than others of its kind.

7. All Shook Up - Tribute to the King

• Where: Alexis Park Resort
• Price: starting at $45; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 75 minutes
• Age: all ages

If you’re a fan of Elvis Presley’s music, then All Shook Up: Tribute to the King is the show for you in Las Vegas. This tribute show to one of the 20th century’s most celebrated musicians recreates some of his most famous performances and songs, such as “Suspicious Minds,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Love Me Tender”.

The singers, accompanied by a live band, take turns performing, but they are always professional impersonators. In addition, they wear highly detailed costumes inspired by the different stages of Elvis’ musical career.

In this case, it’s a show performed in small venues and theaters along the Strip, creating an intimate and nostalgic atmosphere compared to others in the city.

8. Absinthe

• Where: Caesars Palace
• Price: starting at $149
• Duration: 75 minutes
• Age: from 18 years old

Absinthe is another of the best shows in Las Vegas, thanks to its blend of acrobatics, humor, and an adult cabaret atmosphere.

The show combines top-notch circus acts with comedy, constantly interacting with the audience. Unlike other shows on the Strip, Absinthe takes place in a big top tent in front of Caesars Palace, bringing the audience very close to the performers and allowing them to experience all the acrobatics up close.

We recommend it for anyone looking for a burlesque show that’s unique, fun, and daring.

9. Vegas! The Show

• Where: Planet Hollywood
• Price: starting at $59; you can buy your tickets here
• Duration: 75 minutes
• Age: all ages

VEGAS! The Show is a unique musical production that traces the history of entertainment in Las Vegas and its evolution from the 1950s to the present day, featuring singers, dancers, and backup singers.

It pays tribute to legendary artists who performed in the city and helped make it the "Entertainment Capital of the World," such as The Rat Pack, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, and Gladys Knight & The Pips. The costumes are superb, and the show recreates the atmosphere of the old casinos and nightclubs, together with their signature neon lights.

As a fun fact, this show was created by David Saxe, whose mother was a chorus girl at the Parisian cabaret Folies Bergère and whose father was a saxophonist and bandleader for The Rat Pack—which inspired him to capture the true essence and history of Las Vegas.

10. Awakening

• Where: Wynn Las Vegas
• Price: starting at $85
• Duration: 80 minutes
• Age: from 5 years old

We wrap up this selection of the top rated shows in Las Vegas with Awakening, one of the city’s most technologically advanced productions. It combines fantasy, acrobatics, music, choreography, and visual effects, all set on a circular, moving stage designed exclusively for this show.

Featuring 60 international artists, the story follows several characters as they journey through different fantastical worlds inspired by elements such as light, darkness, water, and fire. Narrated by Anthony Hopkins, and with its immersive projections and lighting that constantly transforms the atmosphere, it is the perfect show for those seeking a modern visual experience at the cutting edge of technology.

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Free shows in Las Vegas

Did you know there are several free shows in Las Vegas? That's right—you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy the entertainment this city has to offer! Here are some of the most interesting ones:

Circus shows at Circus Circus

The historic Circus Circus hotel, which opened in 1968, offers free circus shows on its premises. It’s one of the must-do activities for families in Las Vegas, though it’s also enjoyable for adults.

The show times vary by season, so it's best to check their website.

The Bellagio Fountains

Probably the most famous free show in Las Vegas is the one held at the elegant Bellagio Hotel, where crowds of tourists gather daily in front of its fountains to watch the light and sound show. Showtimes vary by day of the week:

• Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: every 30 minutes from 12:00 PM to 7:30 PM and every 15 minutes from 8:00 PM to midnight.
• Monday through Friday: every 30 minutes from 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and every 15 minutes from 8:00 p.m. to midnight.

Fremont Street Experience

The Fremont Street Experience, located in downtown Las Vegas, is a pedestrian street famous for its roof—which is covered by a massive LED screen—where musical projections take place. In addition, it’s the perfect place to catch free live concerts, visit historic casinos, enjoy street art, and let loose when night falls. Learn more in our guide to visiting the Fremont Street Experience.

The Fall of Atlantis

The free show The Fall of Atlantis takes place at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. Several animated statues come to life in a story set in the kingdom of Atlantis, where the sons of King Atlas battle for the throne amid spectacular fire and water effects. An unconventional show to see in a shopping mall, isn’t it? It takes place Thursday through Monday, every hour on the hour, from noon to 8 p.m.

The Lake of Dreams

At the Wynn Hotel, a show set on the waters of the Lake of Dreams takes place every day after dark. This outdoor lake is illuminated by 5,500 LED lights and features a combination of surround sound, lighting, and image projections with large-scale puppets. It also features a waterfall and clusters of pine trees, making it feel as though you’re surrounded by nature.

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Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas

Choosing a Cirque du Soleil show is always a surefire hit. Although we’ve already mentioned a couple of them, there are actually five shows taking place in Las Vegas, so here’s a list of them all:

• O (Bellagio): a water show featuring acrobatics, synchronized swimming, and diving. ➡️Book tickets here.
• KÀ (MGM Grand): a show that combines acrobatics, fantasy adventures, and martial arts on a 360-degree rotating stage. ➡️Book tickets here. It’s included in the 3- to 5-day Go City All-Inclusive Pass.
• Michael Jackson ONE (Mandalay Bay): a show starring the King of Pop that combines acrobatics with dance and visual effects. ➡️Book tickets here.
• Mystère (Treasure Island): a classic show featuring acrobatics, fantastical creatures, and live music. ➡️Book tickets here.
• Mad Apple (New York-New York): Inspired by the energy, music, and nightlife of New York, this show combines acrobatics, comedy, magic, live music, and a nightclub atmosphere. ➡️Book tickets here. It’s included in the 3- to 5-day Go City All-Inclusive Pass.

Best magic shows in Las Vegas

There are many magician shows in Las Vegas, some geared more toward children and others toward an older audience. Here are the main ones (please note that David Copperfield’s show ended in April 2026 after 25 years).

• Mat Franco (The LINQ Hotel): optical illusions, card games, and mind-blowing tricks. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Shin Lim (The Venetian): a magician known for his sleight of hand and card tricks. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Nathan Burton (FlyOver): a show featuring tricks, illusions, and a laid-back style. ➡️ Book tickets here. Included in the Go City Pass Las Vegas Explorer and All-Inclusive.
• The Mentalist (Planet Hollywood): magic tricks, comedy, and live mind-reading. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• V - The Ultimate Variety Show (Planet Hollywood): a mix of comedy, magic, juggling, and acrobatics. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Mindfreak (Planet Hollywood): a mix of rock concert, magic, illusions, and pyrotechnics. It’s pretty intense and loud. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Piff the Magic Dragon (Flamingo): a blend of comedy and unconventional magic, featuring dry British humor and a magic-performing Chihuahua. ➡️ Book tickets here.

Best comedy shows in Las Vegas

If you're in the mood for some fun and want to laugh until you cry, then you should check out one of these shows:

• Terry Fator (The STRAT): ventriloquism, comedy, and musical impersonations.
• Piff the Magic Dragon (Flamingo): a blend of comedy and unconventional magic, featuring dry British humor and a magic-performing Chihuahua. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• The Mentalist (Planet Hollywood): magic tricks, comedy, and live mind-reading. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Zombie Burlesque (Planet Hollywood): a comedic musical set in Las Vegas in 1958, featuring human survivors and the undead in a burlesque club.
• Menopause The Musical (Harrah's): a musical parody celebrating menopause, featuring four women who bond over memory loss, hot flashes, and night sweats.

Best dinner shows in Las Vegas

Looking to see a show while you eat? In Las Vegas, there are several options that include dinner; for some, it’s included by default, while for others, you have to purchase the package.

• Tournament of Kings (Excalibur): a dinner show set in medieval times, featuring jousting matches and sword fights. Dinner is eaten with your hands, in true medieval style. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• All Motown (Alexis Park Resort): a show featuring female artists performing Motown classics; a dinner package is available.
• The Rat Pack is Back (Tuscany Suites): a tribute to Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin; a dinner package is available for purchase.
• Mayfer Supper Club (Bellagio): a combination of fine dining and live entertainment.

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Best fantasy shows in Las Vegas

In Las Vegas, there are several shows that fall into this category, whether because of their setting, visual effects, stunts, or storyline. These are the most popular ones:

• Awakening (Wynn Las Vegas): futuristic sets, special effects, and a fantastical story inspired by the struggle between light and darkness.
• O by Cirque du Soleil (Bellagio): a dreamlike, fantasy-filled atmosphere. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Mystère by Cirque du Soleil (Treasure Island): whimsical creatures, acrobatics, and a magical atmosphere. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• KÀ by Cirque du Soleil (MGM Grand): acrobatics, fantastical adventures, and martial arts. ➡️ Book tickets here.

Best music shows in Las Vegas

If you want to see a show in Las Vegas where music takes center stage—one that will have you dancing in your seat—then these options are perfect:

• Blue Man Group (Luxor Hotel): music, visual comedy, percussion, and technology, featuring three blue, silent characters who interact with the audience. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Jabbawockeez (MGM Grand): a hip-hop group known for their famous choreography, high-energy music, and special effects. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Michael Jackson ONE (Mandalay Bay): Michael Jackson's music combined with visual effects, dance, and acrobatics. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• All Shook Up - Tribute to the King (Alexis Park Resort): a tribute to Elvis Presley. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• Vegas! The Show (Planet Hollywood): a journey through the history of entertainment in Las Vegas featuring singers, dancers, and backup singers. ➡️ Book tickets here.
• All Motown (Alexis Park Resort): classics in a Motown beat.
• The Rat Pack is Back (Tuscany Suites): tribute to Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr and Dean Martin.
• Piano Man (Planet Hollywood): tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel.

Residencies in Las Vegas in 2026

As we mentioned at the beginning, residencies are common among famous singers and artists, and they perform in the city for a limited time. Here are the most interesting ones for 2026:

• Blake Shelton (May 2026)
• Donny Osmod (March–December 2026)
• No Doubt (May 2026)
• Rod Stewart (May and June 2026)
• Dita Von Teese (May and June 2026)
• Kelly Clarkson (July and August 2026)
• Cindy Lauper (May 2026)
• Backstreet Boys (July and August 2026)
• Jonas Brothers (May 2026)
• Wayne Newton (May–December 2026)
• Metallica (October 2026 to March 2027)
• Santana (May 2026)
• Eagles (September–November 2026)
• Marc Anthony (July and August 2026)

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How much do shows in Las Vegas cost

The price of shows in Las Vegas can vary widely depending on the type of show, its popularity, the day of the week, the season, seat location, and how far in advance you buy tickets.

In general, Las Vegas offers options for almost every budget, ranging from affordable shows starting at $40 (stand-up comedy, magic shows, etc.) to quite exclusive experiences costing over $150, including artist residencies.

Also, keep in mind that some shows are included in the Go City Pass Las Vegas (use the code YOURTRIPTOUSA5 for a 5% discount). So, if you already have this tourist pass, it’s a great idea to attend one of these shows to save money. The included shows are as follows:

• WOW - The Vegas Spectacular (stunts and visual effects): Explorer and All-Inclusive passes.
• ROUGE (cabaret): Explorer and All-Inclusive passes.
• Nathan Burton (magic): Explorer and All-Inclusive passes.
• Piano Man (a tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel): Explorer and All-Inclusive passes.
• KÀ Cirque du Soleil (acrobatics and martial arts): 3- to 5-day All-Inclusive pass.
• Mad Apple Cirque du Soleil (New York nightlife): 3- to 5-day All-Inclusive pass.

Map of shows in Las Vegas

On this map, you can see where all the shows on the Strip that we've recommended are taking place:

Tips for attending shows in Las Vegas

There are dozens of shows in Las Vegas every night, so making the right choice and doing a little planning can really make a difference in your experience. We hope you find these tips helpful:

🎟️ Book tickets in advance for the most popular shows

The most popular shows tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak seasons. If you’re certain you want to see one of these shows and already know the exact date, it’s best to buy your tickets several weeks in advance.

💸 How to get cheaper tickets to shows in Las Vegas

The same show can have very different prices depending on the day of the week, the section where you choose your seat, and the show time. For this reason, it’s best to avoid weekends and holidays if possible, and to plan your visit for times when tickets are cheaper. As for seating, the best approach is to decide whether you’d rather have a more limited view and pay less, or enjoy the show to the fullest.

On the other hand, if you wait until the last minute, there are often deals for tickets that are still available for the same day or the next day. This is ideal if you’re flexible about which show you want to see.

🪑 Choose your seat carefully

For some shows, it’s well worth paying a little extra for a good seat, especially for visually stunning performances or those with special stage effects. However, in small theaters or for more musical-style shows, the middle sections often offer the best value for money.

🕝 Arrive at the show at least 30 minutes early

Especially for shows held at large hotels, it can sometimes take longer than expected to find the venue because you'll have to walk quite a bit. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts so you can get there without rushing.

🧥 No need to dress up

Unless otherwise specified or it’s a very upscale event, the dress code in Las Vegas is generally quite flexible. The norm is to dress up but still keep it casual, so you don’t need to be dressed to the nines.

FAQs about shows in Las Vegas

What's the best show in Las Vegas?

Although it depends on personal taste, Cirque du Soleil shows are usually the most acclaimed in the city, particularly "O". It is one of the most impressive shows in the world, both for its massive pool that appears and disappears during the performance and for its acrobatics and jumps.

Which Cirque du Soleil show is the best?

The most spectacular one is "O", although "KÀ" is also quite epic thanks to its moving stage and its scenes.

How much do shows in Las Vegas cost?

The price of shows in Las Vegas can vary widely depending on the type of show, its popularity, the day of the week, the season, seat location, and how far in advance you buy tickets. Prices can range from $40 to $300.

Are there any free shows in Las Vegas?

Yes, there are free shows, the most popular being the Bellagio fountains' light and sound show and the Fremont Street Experience.

What show should I see on my first visit to Las Vegas?

We'd choose one by Cirque du Soleil, like "O" or "KÀ".

How far in advance should I book a show in Las Vegas?

For highly sought-after shows, it’s best to book 1 or 2 months in advance (earlier if you’re traveling on special dates). If you’re flexible, you can find last-minute discounts once you’re in Las Vegas, especially for less popular shows or weekday performances.

Which shows are best for kids in Las Vegas?

Cirque du Soleil shows are perfect for kids, but they also tend to enjoy the Tournament of Kings and any of the magic shows we've mentioned.

What is the most impressive show in Las Vegas?

There are several spectacular shows, such as "Awakening" and "WOW – The Vegas Spectacular", as well as "O", "KÀ", and "Mystère" (all three by Cirque du Soleil).

What's the funniest show in Las Vegas?

There are several options, but Absinthe combines provocative humor, acrobatics, cabaret, and audience interaction, so a good time is guaranteed.

What are the best burlesque shows in Las Vegas?

Some of the shows aimed at adults due to their more sensual and erotic content include ROUGE, X Burlesque, Fantasy, X Country, and Magic Mike Live.

We hope this article on the best shows in Las Vegas has helped you make your decision!