Exploring Movie Sets Near Las Vegas

Hands holding a film slate while directing a movie scene in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a hotspot for millions of tourists year after year. With so many bright and extravagant attractions available, it can be easy to overlook the fact that there are many movie filming locations near Las Vegas. The bright lights and iconic landmarks of the city have provided the perfect backdrop for countless movies and TV shows over the years. From classic films like Casino and The Hangover to popular TV shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Las Vegas has cemented its status as a go-to destination for filmmakers. The movie sets near Las Vegas are a testament to the city’s enduring charm and its role in the world of entertainment on and off screen. 

Check out some of the infamous movie sets filmed in and around Vegas from above. Book a helicopter tour today!

Are there movie sets near Las Vegas? 

The city itself is not the only way to dive into the scenery found in countless on-screen productions. For those of you who remember Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, do you recall the scene with the caption “Somewhere outside Las Vegas”? This scene location can be found outside the city in the Valley of Fire.

Scenes from Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas were shot at Red Rock Canyon. This national wonder is just 30 minutes west of Vegas. If you’re looking for a film location that’s not just beautiful scenery, there is a dark and secluded dive bar located in the desert south of Sin City where the characters from Casino are forced to secretly meet. The Idle Spurs Tavern is the film location for this brooding television moment, and the best part is, they serve burgers and fries 24 hours a day.   

How about the legendary film Into the Wild? When Chris McCandless’s car is hit by a flash flood, he abandons his car and sets up camp on the shoreline of Lake Mead. Later on, he can be seen paddling along the crest of the Hoover Dam before reaching his ultimate destination. 

Book a tour of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam!

What famous movies were filmed in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has served as the backdrop for many famous movies over the years, adding to its allure as a cinematic destination. One such film is the iconic Ocean’s Eleven, starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon, which showcases various Las Vegas locations such as the Bellagio and the MGM Grand. Another well-known movie is Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, featuring Johnny Depp. The film takes viewers on a wild ride through the city, highlighting landmarks like the Circus Circus Hotel and the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. 

Most can easily recognize the lobby of Ceasar’s Palace from The Hangover, however, throughout the film’s entirety, you can find many Vegas landmarks. Anyone who likes mob movies knows that The Godfather is the most famous mob movie of all time. If you pay a visit to the Tropicana Las Vegas, excitement may take over when you recognize it as the Tropigala, Michael Corleone’s on-screen casino. 

Let’s not forget the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever. The Westgate in Las Vegas can be observed, pegged as the Whyte House casino, a fictitious location created for the film. 

These are just a few examples of the many famous movies that have been expertly shot in Sin City, allowing visitors to step into the scenes of their favorite films. 

What are the best tours from Las Vegas?

The Grand Canyon as viewed from Mather Point.

It is no secret that if you want to know the ins and outs of Las Vegas, the best option is a professional tour. One of the best things to do in Las Vegas to gain knowledge about its history and significance is to enlist the aid of an experienced tour guide service. With so many options available, deciding which tour is best for you can become a chore. 

We can give you some peace of mind in that department. The best tours Las Vegas has to offer are provided by Gray Line. We offer an extensive array of tour options at your disposal. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff ensure you get the best experience possible. From bus tours to helicopter tours, we’ve got it all. 

Book your Grand Canyon helicopter tour!

As you can see, Las Vegas movie locations are in no short supply. From action-packed thrillers to glamorous heist films, the city has played a starring role in some of Hollywood’s most beloved films. The movies shot in Vegas have immortalized the city on the silver screen, showcasing the city’s vibrant energy and unique charm. Whether you’re a fan of action, comedy, or drama, Las Vegas has a movie that will captivate your imagination and transport you to the exciting world of film.