The 13 Best Shows & Iconic Performances To See In Las Vegas in 2025
Las Vegas is home to some of the most dazzling live performances in the world. From magic to acrobatics to dance, comedy, and even burlesque – Las Vegas is a city that brings shows from all different genres to life. So whether you’re after spectacle, storytelling, or pure artistry, we bring to you some of the best, must-see, and top-rated shows on the Las Vegas Strip – all of which will ensure an unforgettable night out.
Like always, here’s a quick summary (too long, didn’t read) version:
- Penn & Teller – Best Magic Show
- Awakening at The Wynn – Best for Families
- O by Cirque Du Soleil – Best Acrobatic Show
- The Sphere Experience: Postcard From Earth – Best Educational Show
- Tournament of Kings – Best Dinner Show
- X Burlesque – Best Adult Show
- The Rat Pack is Back – Best Tribute Show
13 Best Shows and Performances In Las Vegas
Awakening at The Wynn
Awakening at The Wynn is a mesmerizing production that has quickly established itself as one of the most must-see shows in Las Vegas. Set in the custom-designed Awakening Theater (at the Wynn) this show blends advanced technology with stunning artistic performances to create a fully immersive experience.
The performance takes place on a 60-foot diameter rotating stage made of dark glass, which splits into multiple levels and can rise and fall by 20 feet. This stage design allows for seamless and captivating scene changes, drawing the audience deeper into the storyline. Visually, the show is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring elaborate costumes, fantastical creatures, and intricate puppetry designed by Michael Curry, the genius behind Broadway’s The Lion King. Narrated by Sir Anthony Hopkins, the plot follows the hero IO on a mythical journey to reunite Light and Darkness – it’s truly one of the best shows in Las Vegas.
The show runs multiple days a week, with performances at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM, and lasts about 75 minutes. It’s a family-friendly show open to audiences aged five and older. Ticket prices start at $79.
The Mentalist
The Mentalist, starring Gerry McCambridge at Planet Hollywood’s V Theater is a thrilling blend of mind-reading, magic, and sharp humor that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Known for his seemingly impossible predictions and mental tricks, McCambridge engages the crowd in a way that turns each show into a truly interactive experience.
But it’s not just the mentalism that keeps the energy high—McCambridge’s witty banter and light-hearted approach to mind manipulation make the show as entertaining as it is mystifying. With the intimate setting of the V Theater, there’s no bad seat in the house, so you can watch each mind-bending feat unfold up close.
The mentalist runs daily at 7:30 PM and lasts approximately 75 minutes. Guests must be 16 years or older to attend. Ticket prices start at $29.
O by Cirque du Soleil
Now let’s talk about one of the most iconic shows on the strip – O by Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio delivers an awe-inspiring combination of water-themed acrobatics and theatrical artistry. With its massive 1.5-million-gallon pool, the show features breathtaking performances that take place in, on, and above the water, seamlessly blending elegance and athleticism.
The intricate set design and visual transitions between land and water create a dreamlike atmosphere, all while the cast of 85 world-class performers—including acrobats, synchronized swimmers, and divers—showcase their talents with precision. The magic of O is further enhanced by a live orchestra, whose music adds depth and emotion to the already surreal atmosphere of the performance.
Performing Wednesday through Sunday with shows at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM, O runs for about 90 minutes and is suitable for all ages. It’s another family-friendly show, though children must be at least five years old to attend. Tickets for O start in the region of $125.
Ka by Cirque du Soleil
Another Cirque du Soleil show makes the list—this time, it’s KA. KA by Cirque du Soleil at MGM Grand is a gravity-defying spectacle that immerses audiences in an epic adventure. Known for its innovative stage that rotates 360 degrees, KA takes full advantage of dynamic landscapes to enhance its choreography, combining martial arts, acrobatics, and breathtaking special effects.
The show tells the story of imperial twins separated by conflict. Through stunning visuals and intense combat sequences, it creates a cinematic experience that unfolds entirely through movement. The purpose-built theatre allows the audience to watch the action unfold from an angle rarely seen in live performances. We’ve made a guide that can help you explore the seating chart for KA in more detail.
You can catch KA every day (except for Thursday), with performances at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM. Similar to O, KA lasts approximately 90 minutes and is suitable for all ages (although kids must be over 5 to attend). Ticket prices start at just over $87
Sphere Experience: Postcard From Earth
You’ve probably heard of The Sphere by now—it’s one of the most talked-about venues in the world. Postcard From Earth at The Sphere is a groundbreaking immersive experience that transports audiences on a visual journey across the natural wonders of our planet. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this show utilizes the largest high-resolution LED screen in the world, wrapping viewers in crystal-clear 18 K-resolution imagery.
What makes Postcard From Earth unique are its 4D elements—guests feel movement, vibrations, and even smell the environments being shown—all of this creates a multi-sensory experience like no other. Then, when you combine the 4D elements with beam-forming sound technology that delivers precise audio to each seat, you get a production that offers an awe-inspiring view of Earth’s beauty.
(We’re sure that’s made you want to look for the best seat in the arena – so here’s a seating chart for Postcard From Earth).
Performances typically run daily at 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday there are additional shows that run at 11:00 AM. The main part of the show lasts approximately 50 minutes. Postcard From Earth is open to guests aged six and older, so it’s a great experience for the entire family. Ticket prices start at just above $90.
X Burlesque
Vegas is world famous for a wide range of shows, some of which are shows specifically reserved for adults. The next show is exactly that. X Burlesque at Flamingo is a provocative, high-energy adult revue that has entertained audiences for over two decades. Featuring a talented cast of dancers, this show blends sultry choreography with playful themed vignettes, all set to a backdrop of popular music.
Each segment offers something different – all performed in elaborate, eye-catching costumes. The intimate setting of X Burlesque in Bugsy’s Theatre ensures that every guest gets a close-up view of the action, making the experience both immersive and personal.
Performing every night at 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM, X Burlesque is a must-see for adults looking for an entertaining night out. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend. General admission tickets start at just under $50.
Penn & Teller
Next, we’re back to something more family-friendly – Penn & Teller at the Penn & Teller Theater in Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. They have been captivating audiences for over 20 years with their blend of magic and comedy. They’re considered a Vegas staple and known for their unique takes on classic illusions – Penn’s witty commentary adds humor and insight to the show, while Teller provides silent but expressive performances.
The performance features some of Penn & Teller’s most famous acts, and like some of the other shows on this list, audience interaction plays a huge role. Audience interaction also helps keep the show fresh every night, but more importantly, the duo often debunks their own acts, giving audience members a glimpse behind the magic. This is something that magicians do not traditionally do.
Performances run Saturday through Wednesday at 9:00 PM and last about 90 minutes. You can bring the family as the show is recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets start from $60.
Jabbawockeez
Jabbawockeez, the world-renowned hip-hop dance crew, brings their high-energy and high-octane show – JREAMZ – to the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Known for their signature white masks and gloves, the Jabbawockeez deliver a show filled with synchronized choreography, blending hip-hop with a variety of dance styles.
Their precise movements and iconic style create a unified, almost hypnotic visual effect, while the show’s dynamic music mix—ranging from popular hits to original tracks—keeps the energy high. Add in theatrical elements like lighting effects and props, and Jabbawockeez becomes more than just a dance performance; it’s a full sensory experience.
The Jabbawockeez typically perform daily (except for Tuesday) at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. The performance lasts about 70 minutes and is suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for families. This is a show that kids will definitely enjoy.
Tournament of Kings
Speaking of kids, should you take them to dinner before a show, or dinner after a show? How about dinner AT the show? That’s right, Tournament of Kings is a dinner show you can go to with your entire family.
Tournament of Kings at Excalibur is a medieval-themed dinner show featuring live jousting, sword fights, and impressive horsemanship. Set in King Arthur’s court, the performance gets the audience involved in the action as knights in costumes battle for victory.
While you cheer for your designated knight, you can enjoy a delicious three-course meal. The show includes pyrotechnics and special effects – the atmosphere is electric, and it all comes together to create a fantastic, family-friendly experience. If you want to learn more about dinner shows, then you can check out our guide to some of the best dinner shows in Las Vegas.
Performances run from Thursday to Monday at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM. The show lasts 90 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Ticket prices start from around $63.
David Copperfield
David Copperfield at the MGM Grand delivers a magic show that has become legendary on the Las Vegas Strip. Known for his grand illusions and storytelling, Copperfield’s show brings together unique feats of magic performed exclusively in Las Vegas with a personal, intimate feel.
David Copperfield strikes the perfect balance between large-scale tricks and smaller, personal moments – and again, like some of the other shows, he interacts with the audience throughout the performance. Unlike many other shows in Las Vegas, Copperfield’s act is stripped of distractions, relying on pure magic to engage the crowd.
David Copperfield performs Monday through Sunday at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM, with an additional 4:00 PM show on Saturdays. The show runs for approximately 90 minutes and is suitable for those aged five and older, though those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Rat Pack is Back
This list is incomplete without a tribute show- and what better show to include than The Rat Pack Is Back at Tuscany Suites & Casino? This tribute show brings the timeless charm of Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra to life in a nostalgic tribute to the golden era of Las Vegas. With spot-on impersonations and classic hits performed alongside a live big band, this show perfectly captures the charisma and energy of the original Rat Pack.
Accompanied by a live 12-piece big band, the show recreates the vibrant atmosphere of the Sands Hotel’s iconic Copa Room, transporting the audience to a time when these legends ruled the Vegas stage. The performers also interact with the audience, adding a lively and immersive element to the experience that keeps the energy high throughout the evening.
There’s a show every night at 7.30 PM, and The Rat Pack Is Back lasts approximately 90 minutes. It’s a family-friendly show but is recommended for audiences aged 13 and older. Ticket prices start from $90.
Shin Lim: Limitless
Shin Lim, the winner of America’s Got Talent, brings his mesmerizing sleight-of-hand and close-up magic show, Shin Lim Limitless, to the Mirage. Known for his precision and artistry, Lim’s performance is an intimate display of magic, blending his flawless card tricks with music and visual effects that create an atmosphere of mystery and wonder.
From intricate card manipulation to seamless sleight-of-hand, Lim leaves audiences baffled by tricks that seem almost impossible to comprehend. The use of smoke and dramatic lighting enhances the immersive experience, and the interactive elements make every show feel personal and unique.
Shin Lim typically performs Thursday through Monday at 7:30 PM. The performance lasts around 75 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged five and older. Tickets start from $78, but we do need to tell you that Shin Lim tickets are in high demand. There are less than 10 tickets left for many dates in November and for dates that run into the first week of December.
Criss Angel Mindfreak
Criss Angel Mindfreak at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is one of the most popular shows to attend in Las Vegas. The spellbinding show showcases the world-renowned magician’s talent for pushing the boundaries of illusion. With over 75 mind-blowing tricks, Criss Angel leaves audiences speechless through levitations, disappearances, and death-defying stunts – if Las Vegas doesn’t make you question what’s real Criss Angel definitely will.
What truly sets this show apart from others is the high-quality production. From immersive video mapping to dazzling pyrotechnics, the visuals add a whole new layer to the experience—no matter where you sit. But it’s not just about sitting back and watching—Criss Angel often pulls audience members into the action, adding an interactive twist to the performance that keeps everyone on their toes.
The show runs from Wednesday to Sunday at 7:00 PM. This is a family-friendly show, but guests must be at least five years old to attend. Ticket prices start at $75.
No Trip To Vegas Is Complete Without Watching A Show
No matter what type of entertainment you’re after, Las Vegas has a show that will leave you entertained. Whether you’re traveling with family and friends or looking for a night of excitement with your partner, the iconic shows of Las Vegas are guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable evening. The best part is that as well as watching a show, there’s so much more to do in Vegas. From outdoor activities to pool parties to residencies – at Las Vegas Jaunt we’re here to help you make the most out of your trip to Sin City!
If you’re reading this article while reminiscing about your Las Vegas trip then leave a comment – let us know what show you watched and what you enjoyed about it. If you think we missed a show, then let us know why!
If you’re already in Vegas, you can book discounted tickets for shows directly from our website. If you’re still planning your trip, you’ll definitely want to take a look at our hotel deals and discounts.
I Can’t get used to Penn being skinny now. LOL.