Flamingo has been a staple of the Las Vegas Strip since the 1940s. Although much at the resort has changed since those days, one thing hasn’t: There are still plenty of itinerary-worthy activities at Flamingo.
Boasting over 90,000 square feet of gaming space which is comprised of 1,900 slots and 89 table games, Flamingo is a gambler’s paradise.
While it’s true that gambling steals the show, many don’t realize though that there is plenty to do outside of gambling both at and near the resort.
Itinerary Ideas at Flamingo
See the Wildlife Habitat: The perfect escape from the commotion on the casino floor, Flamingo’s free wildlife habitat is located in the resort’s rear, near the pool complex.
Resident animals on display include pelicans, ducks, fish, and of course, flamingos. Stop by at 8:30 am or 2 pm for an educational “Keeper Talk” session!
Flamingo’s GoPool: Fresh off a $20 million renovation, Flamingo’s pool has a trendy, oontzy vibe. It’s a party scene.
The pool area is 21+, has a 30-seat swim-up bar, and a 50-foot-long rain curtain concealing a smaller, shaded pool in the structure pictured below.
Disappointingly, the new pool feels smaller than what it replaced, and the ancillary smaller pools scattered about are reserved for guests who rented a cabana.
Notably, the pool is accessible to anyone, for free, whether you’re staying at Flamingo or not.
Grab a Cocktail at Pinky’s: Pinky’s by Vanderpump is the latest addition to the Vanderpump Las Vegas empire.
Although they replaced my favorite people-watching bar in Las Vegas to create this, I can appreciate it’s level of physical attractiveness.
I still don’t really “get” the whole Vanderpump thing, and I immediately zone out every time my wife starts explaining who she is, and I realize I’m rambling a bit here, so I’ll just stop.
Check out Piff: You may have seen Piff the Magic Dragon and his dog Mr. Piffles, the first magic-performing Chihuahua, on America’s Got Talent. They now perform their sarcastic, hilarious brand of magic at Flamingo in Las Vegas.
The show is suitable for all ages, and I’ve even gotten my kids hooked on Piff’s YouTube videos.
As a popular show, I recommend snagging tickets (which start around $50) in advance.
RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE: Boasting the world’s most famous queens, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live is based on the hit reality show. Especially popular with bachelorette parties, RuPaul’s Drag Race is among the more popular drag shows in Vegas.
Pricing starts at around $70.
Catch a Burlesque Show: If you’re looking for a show that’s a bit more “Vegas” look no further than X Burlesque.
Tickets to the topless revue that’s popular with bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, and couples looking to rev things up land in the $50s.
See Wayne Newton: Channel your inner Ellen Griswold and obsess over Mr. Las Vegas himself at “Wayne: Up Close and Personal”. Set in the intimate Bugsy’s Cabaret, you won’t want to miss this chance to see classics like “Summer Wind” and “Years” in person.
Tickets to Wayne Newton start at around $80.
Visit a Speakeasy: The Count Room speakeasy is technically part of Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse – Here’s the nondescript “secret door” near Flamingo’s Food Court that you’re looking for.
Behind the door is an elegant cocktail lounge which is a throwback to the prohibition era.
The Count Room hosts The Moonshiners, a free live music show on Friday and Saturday nights.
I stopped in to catch a recent performance with a couple of friends and was blown away by their talent. We had intended to stop in for *1* singular beer and ended up staying for *much* more… The tab was painful. Worth every penny.
The band uniquely performs modern hit songs in a 1920s “prohibition era” style – It was mesmerizing.
Things To Do Near Flamingo Las Vegas
FlyLinq Zipline: I recently took a rip on the FlyLINQ Zipline, which sends riders soaring above LINQ Promenade towards the High Roller Observation Wheel.
The ride was exhilarating, but the views were just “OK” compared to SlotZilla on Fremont Street. For half the price, however, I thought it was a good value.
Belly Up To an Icebar: Also located along the LINQ Promenade is the Minus5 Icebar, which is kept at a balmy 23 degrees Fahrenheit and is constructed out of ice.
That’s right. The walls, bar, tables, chairs, decor, even the cups… All Ice.
You can see my full Minus5 Icebar review here, but suffice it to say that I enjoyed the reprieve from the summer heat.
High Roller Observation Wheel: Anchoring the Linq Promenade is the iconic 550-foot-tall High Roller Observation Wheel. Take the 30-minute round-trip ride in one of High Roller’s 28 pods which offer stunning views of Las Vegas.
While slightly more expensive, I recommend riding at night when Vegas is shining bright. High Roller also offers an all-you-can-drink open bar package dubbed the “Happy Half Hour” which, for an extra $20 or so, is a blast.
Soothe your throat with a Frozen Bailey’s: Swing into O’Sheas for a Frozen Bailey’s, one of my favorite drinks in Vegas. It’s essentially a malt, with booze.
They cost $20+, depending on the size, so I recommend playing some video poker and getting them comped instead. At least you have a chance at breaking even that way.
Walk the Forum Shops: Shopping malls in and of themselves aren’t that exciting, but this is no ordinary mall. Located across the street from Flamingo at Caesars Palace, the Forum Shops are a photo opp in their own right.
While stunning architecture and theming are the main reasons to visit, the Forum Shops also offers a free animatronic “Fall of Atlantis” show daily. It’s not worth going out of your way for, but worth catching if you’re in the area anyway.
There is also an impressive 30,000-gallon aquarium stocked with over 300 species of fish.
Check out a Free Lounge Act: Walk past LINQ over to Harrah’s where 2 distinct free shows are offered at The Piano Bar.
In the first, Pete Vallee stars as Big Elvis (Big Elvis show schedule) who plays both the hits and obscure Elvis tracks on request.
The other is a dueling piano show featuring twins Tamara and Kim Pinegar (Dueling Piano show schedule) that’s offered nightly.
Catch Live Music at Carnaval Court: Nestled between Linq and Harrah’s is Carnaval Court, one of my favorite bars with live music in Vegas. There, you’ll catch bands like The District, The Droids, the Whip Its, and more.
Free Shows Nearby: You’ll want to swing by the Fountains of Bellagio which dance every 15-30 minutes daily. After you see the fountains, stop into Bellagio to walk through the conservatory and botanical gardens.
Even if you don’t have a huge gambling budget, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy at and near Flamingo – Have fun exploring!
See Also: Cheap Eats on the Vegas Strip – A property-by-property directory of quick, cheap meal options.
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.