Las Vegas isn’t just about the glitz of the Strip — head downtown and you’ll find the soul of the city pulsing through the Fremont Street Experience. Located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, this iconic pedestrian-only entertainment district brings together vintage Vegas charm with modern-day thrills.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for fun, this guide covers everything you need to know about Fremont Street Experience — from its famous LED canopy shows and casinos to the best places to eat, shop, and enjoy live music.

The Fremont Street Experience is a five-block-long entertainment district located on Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. It’s most famous for its Viva Vision canopy — the world’s largest LED screen suspended above the street, stretching 1,375 feet long and displaying dazzling light and sound shows every hour at night.

But it’s more than just lights. Fremont is a nonstop party with:

• Historic casinos

• Free nightly concerts

• Ziplining across the crowd

• Neon lights and retro vibes

• Street performers, bars, and food vendors

is a five-block-long entertainment district located on Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. It’s most famous for its Viva Vision canopy — the world’s largest LED screen suspended above the street, stretching 1,375 feet long and displaying dazzling light and sound shows every hour at night.

But it’s more than just lights. Fremont is a nonstop party with:

• Historic casinos

• Free nightly concerts

• Ziplining across the crowd

• Neon lights and retro vibes

• Street performers, bars, and food vendors

Fremont Street is one of the most historic streets in Las Vegas. Before the Strip, Fremont was the original casino district, home to the first hotel (Hotel Nevada, now the Golden Gate), the first traffic light, and the first neon sign in the city.

It was nicknamed "Glitter Gulch" due to its dazzling lights, and many classic casinos still operate today, including:

• Golden Nugget

• Four Queens

• Binion’s Gambling Hall

• El Cortez (just off the Experience)

In 1995, the city covered the street with the Viva Vision canopy to revitalize Downtown and create a tourist-friendly pedestrian zone.

1. Viva Vision Light Shows

• The canopy comes alive every night with LED shows set to music from The Killers, Imagine Dragons, Shakira, Tiësto, and more.

• Shows run hourly from dusk until midnight.

• The canopy is made of over 49 million LED lights, delivering a jaw-dropping overhead spectacle.

2. SlotZilla Zip Line

• Soar above the crowd on one of two zip lines:

  • Zip-Zilla: 7 stories high, ends halfway down Fremont.

  • Super-Hero Zoom: 11 stories up, flies the entire length of the canopy in a Superman pose.

• A must-do for adrenaline junkies.

3. Free Live Concerts

• Three stages host nightly performances from local and national bands.

• Genres range from rock and pop to country and tribute bands.

• Special events like Downtown Rocks bring big-name acts for free.

4. Casino-Hopping

Step back in time and try your luck at classic Las Vegas casinos with low table minimums and vintage decor:

• Golden Nugget – upscale casino with a shark tank pool

• Four Queens – budget-friendly slots and blackjack

• Binion’s – Old West charm, free photos with a $1 million display

• The D Las Vegas – modern-meets-vintage, lively vibe

Fremont Street offers a mix of classic diners, upscale steakhouses, and local food trucks. Top picks include:

• Heart Attack Grill – hospital-themed, infamous for its calorie-packed burgers

• Project BBQ – delicious Carolina BBQ served from a food truck

• Oscar’s Steakhouse (at Plaza) – fine dining with vintage Rat Pack flair

• Eureka! – modern bar and grill with craft beer and American fare

• Bin 702 & Oak & Ivy (at Container Park) – great for cocktails nearby

Looking for a drink? Don’t miss:

• Atomic Liquors – Vegas’ oldest freestanding bar

• Whiskey Licker Bar – open-air drinks with live music

• The Griffin – moody, hip, and candlelit with a great vibe

At night, Fremont transforms into a neon wonderland filled with music, dancing, and street performers. Here’s what to expect:

• Street Performers: Everything from showgirls to magicians and acrobats. (Note: they work for tips.)

• Bars & Clubs: Bars stay open late, and the area gets rowdy in a fun way — think live DJs, flair bartenders, and bachelor party groups.

• Adults-Only Vibe: After 9 PM, expect a more mature crowd. It's still free and family-accessible, but some performers and bars may lean toward adult entertainment.

• Visit after dark for the full light show and concert vibe.

• Bring small bills if you want to tip performers or buy quick snacks.

• Wear comfortable shoes — it’s all walking and standing.

• Use parking garages at Fremont casinos or nearby lots.

• Stay hydrated — Vegas heat and partying can sneak up on you.

Staying near Fremont lets you enjoy the Experience day and night. Here are the best hotel picks:

• Circa Resort & Casino – adults-only, luxury rooftop pool, modern feel

• Golden Nugget – upscale, great amenities, shark tank pool

• The D Las Vegas – energetic and modern

• Downtown Grand – quieter option just a short walk away

• Four Queens – budget-friendly with no resort fees

If you want to experience the classic soul of Las Vegas, Fremont Street Experience is where it’s at. With its neon lights, historic casinos, live entertainment, and unbeatable energy, it’s a must-see whether you’re in Vegas for a weekend or a week.

From sipping cocktails under the LED canopy to soaring through the sky on SlotZilla, Fremont Street is unforgettable — and it’s just waiting to be explored.