Las Vegas: Activities that Don’t Involve Gambling

Think you can’t have fun in Las Vegas without gambling? Think again! Although you should try to avoid triggers that could lead to relapse – like being close to the addictive behavior – some life situations might require that you be in Las Vegas. If your past addictions make you worried about developing problems with gambling – or if you are recovering from a gambling addiction and can’t avoid a trip to Las Vegas (say, for a family reunion or business convention) – there are still lots of ways to enjoy your trip without rolling dice or feeding a slot machine.

• See a Show. In addition to regular shows like Cirque du Soleil and the Blue Man Group (among many, many others!), Las Vegas hosts many famous performers. Check with your hotel or search the internet for performances during your trip.

• Go Golfing. There are a number of golf courses in the Las Vegas area, which accommodate visitors for both business and pleasure. Don’t know how to golf? Try putt-putt instead!
• Ride the Rides. From the rollercoaster at New York, New York to the rides at the top of the Stratosphere to the 5-acres of indoor activities at the Adventure Dome, you don’t need to be playing craps to get a thrill in Las Vegas.
• Shop. In almost every major casino you enter as well as downtown and along the strip, you will find places to shop – window or otherwise. Whether you’re curious about specialty stores or are hunting for bargains, shopping for items you need is likely to be a better way to spend your money than gambling.
• Drive to a State Park. Spring Mountain Ranch, Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort, and Valley of Fire State Parks are all within a relatively short drive of Las Vegas.
• View Exhibits. From the dancing fountains outside the Bellagio to the lions at MGM Grand to the gondolas in the canal at the Venetian, most of the casinos have some sort of unique, themed exhibit. And, best of all, these are usually free!
• People-watch on Fremont Street. The strip isn’t the only interesting place in Las Vegas. Nicknamed Glitter Gulch, Fremont Street often has many free concerts and a canopy with light shows.
• Visit Movie Sites. Research your favorite Las Vegas-based movies and visit the sites from those movies. The downtown along Fremont Street may be particularly recognizable from such movies as Honey I Blew Up the Kid, Vegas Vacation, and Diamonds are Forever.

Remember, when possible, you should try to avoid triggers for gambling addiction. But if you find it necessary to be in Las Vegas – or another situation that has the potential to trigger addiction or relapse – equip yourself with lots of alternatives before you go, and re-commit yourself to remaining addiction-free. If you know from past experience that alcohol makes your decision-making capabilities weaker, you should choose to abstain from alcohol too. You should also consider enlisting the help of a friend or co-worker to hold you accountable while you are there.