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Do you want to see an afternoon show in Las Vegas but don’t know which one to pick? Well, I’m here to help! I’m a local, and I’ve seen almost every daytime production.
And today, I’m sharing a list of my favorites and giving a mini-review of each to help you find the shows that suit you best.
By the way, if you’re interested in getting tickets, you can check for discounts here:
Alright, let’s do this!
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Top Shows To See During The Day
The following are the daytime shows that I think are best and offer excellent value for the money. These recommendations are all based on my first-hand experience.
They also rank high on other review platforms – roughly earning 4.5/5.0 stars or higher.
Additionally, my list of afternoon shows is excellent for adults and kids. So unless otherwise noted, you won’t have to worry about whether it’s appropriate for children.
1. Nathan Burton Magic Show
- Location: inside FlyOver Las Vegas
- Show times: 2:00 & 4:00 p.m.
- Days: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Ages: No age restriction
About Nathan Burton’s Show
You may already know Nathan Burton from his time on AGT. But, if you haven’t heard of him, Nathan’s a master illusionist who has been performing in Las Vegas since 2001.
The show length was about 70 minutes when I went (both times), and I got to see 24 back-to-back tricks.
There are traditional acts like disappearing showgirls, but you’ll also see some card tricks similar to those in the Shin Lim show.
Nathan has recently added new illusions, too. And one I’ve never seen any magician in Las Vegas do – involving a cell phone and an unsuspecting local.
But what I enjoyed most was playing a game of Bingo!
Who It’s Best For
Nathan Burton’s Magic Show is a good option if you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-energy show. It’s also an excellent choice for families. The jokes are all pretty clean. And I thought the showgirls were dressed appropriately for kids.
2. Paranormal Mind Reading
- Location: Imagine Showroom at Horseshoe
- Showtime: 4:00 pm
- Days: Mon-Sun
- Ages: 5 years and up
About Paranormal
At Paranormal Mind Reading Magic, you’ll meet Frederic Da Silva – one of the world’s best mentalists. His Las Vegas production features mind-blowing mentalism and hypnosis.
For instance, Frederic might have an audience member open a book, and he’ll tell them the word they just read. Or he may predict the name of a loved one they’re thinking about – including details nobody would know.
Although he’s in a smaller theater, I recommend sitting in the center near the stage. Sitting in the rear GA section, it’s more difficult to see what’s happening.
Also, you don’t want to miss Mr. Da Silva’s meet and greet after the show. He takes pictures and signs autographs. But the best part is that he performs one last magic trick for each group.
I didn’t believe in mind-reading until I saw Paranormal. But now I think Mr. Da Silva can actually read minds. So, if this type of magic is your speed, it’s definitely worth going to!
Related: Check out my Paranormal review for more information about the show.
Who It’s Best For
Paranormal is best for those who like hypnosis and mind-reading acts.
3. Adam London Laughternoon
- Location: The Orleans
- Showtime: 4:00 pm
- Days: Thu-Sun
- Ages: All ages welcome
About Laughternoon
Adam London is a true comedy magician. So at his production, you’ll get an almost equal mix of comedy and magic.
His tricks aren’t as fast-paced as Nathan Burton’s, but each illusion is more in-depth. And although he’s known for his magical ducks, you’ll also get to see mentalism, card tricks, and sleight of hand.
Laughternoon has the most audience involvement out of any of the shows I’ve been to. He calls many people up to the stage. And he’s great with kids; he does a lot to involve them and make them feel comfortable.
Mr. London is also the only magician I know who will teach you up to three tricks after the show. But to participate in that, you’ll need to buy a Presto VIP ticket.
Who It’s Best For
Laughternoon is the right choice if you want to laugh a lot while watching magic tricks. This show is also one of the best bargains in Las Vegas, so it’s great for those that want a budget-friendly option. But to see Adam, you have to be okay with going off Las Vegas Boulevard.
4. Mac King Comedy Magic
- Location: Excalibur
- Showtime: 3:00 pm
- Days: Tue-Sat
- Ages: 5 years and up
About Mac King’s Comedy Show
Mac King’s show is another comedy magic production. Mac is a true comedian and had the audience laughing almost the whole time.
I counted ten tricks at the show, with Mac incorporating jokes throughout. But a warning – the humor is mainly for adults as the comedy focuses on suggestive topics.
That said, both kids and adults loved Mac’s tricks. I’ve never heard so much giggling in my life. And that’s because Mr. King performs many silly (yet still awe-inspiring) acts.
For instance, you’ll see magic tricks with live animals like a worm, goldfish, and a guinea pig. You’ll also experience a thrilling nighttime camping adventure and even witness Mac King disappear!
Although it’s a ton of fun, the seating setup could be better. So, if you’re considering going, check out my Mac King Seating Guide before buying tickets.
Who It’s Best For
Mac King is great for those who want a show with equal parts comedy and magic. But because of the nature of the jokes, I like Mac King for adults.
5. iLuminate Las Vegas
- Location: The STRAT
- Showtime: 3:00 pm
- Daytime Shows: Sat & Sun
- Ages: 5 and up
About iLuminate
iLuminate was on season six of America’s Got Talent and placed third. On the TV show, they earned the title of “Best New Act in America.” And now you can catch them in their new production at The Strat.
If this is your first time hearing of them, iLuminate is a technology-dance company. Their act combines glow-in-the-dark suits with choreography.
Their show begins with the audience getting “transported” to Club iLuminate. You’ll party in your seat as you watch the professional dancers on stage get ‘electrified.’
Although there isn’t much onstage participation, you can dance and sing along. But to enjoy it, you can’t be afraid of the dark because it’s all in the dark.
Read also: Check out my illuminate review for more details about the show.
Who It’s Best For
If you’re a fan of AGT, upbeat music, and partying in the dark, iLuminate is for you. It’s also perfect for day dates or if you want to cool off during the hot Las Vegas summer.
6. Farrell Dillon Comedy Magician
- Location: The LINQ Promenade
- Showtime: 4:00 pm
- Days: Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun
- Ages: 3 and up
About Farrell’s Hilarious Magic
Farrell Dillon has appeared on eight seasons of the CW’s Masters of Illusion. But he got his start in Las Vegas when a Caesars executive saw a performance and asked if he wanted his own show.
Farrell previously performed at Bally’s, but he’s since relocated to Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club. And the new space is beautiful and high-end. It’s also small, giving you a high likelihood of going onstage.
Like some of the other magic shows on my list, Farrell’s is a mix of humor and illusions. Or what he likes to call “comedy-in-action.”
He does traditional tricks like sleight of hand and disappearing acts. But he also performs original illusions like jumping thimbles. My favorite part of this afternoon show is Farrell’s dog, Eisley.
Who It’s Best For
Farrell Dillon’s Hilarious Magic is wholesome and great for families. The location at the LINQ is also excellent if you’re looking for more things to do during the day. You’ll be just steps away from top attractions like the High Roller and Brooklyn Bowl.
7. Magic of Jen Kramer
- Location: Westgate
- Showtime: 5:00 pm
- Days: Fri-Sun
- Ages: 4 years and up
About Jen Kramer’s Magic
Jen Kramer is the only woman currently headlining a Las Vegas magic show.
She was named Female Magician of the Year by the International Magicians Society. And Jen’s appeared on TV shows like Penn & Teller’s Fool Us.
Although she’s fantastic at sleight of hand, Jen’s mental abilities are even more impressive. She can find the card you’re thinking of without looking at the deck or tell you your favorite drink.
During her show, you’ll also see her float objects or change the denomination of dollar bills right before your eyes.
But where Jen stands apart from other performers is with her enthusiasm. You can’t help but instantly like her!
Who It’s Best For
Jen Kramer is a fantastic choice for those looking for a heartfelt experience. She’s excellent with kids and spends a lot of time interacting with them.
8. Blue Man Group in Las Vegas
- Location: Luxor
- Showtime: 5:00 pm (some dates at 2:00 pm)
- Days: Mon-Sun
- Ages: No age limit
About Blue Man Group
Blue Man Group (BMG) is one of the longest-running shows in Las Vegas history. And it’s a top seller. The entire show revolves around three hairless and blue guys who don’t utter a word.
BMG combines art, trance-like music, lighting effects, and technology. You’ll also see food skits and watch the trio drum. The group plays with liquids, too, so those sitting in the front may get wet.
Although BMG has fairly high ratings (4/5), some people may not enjoy it because it’s pretty wacky. So I recommend watching the video above to see what it’s like.
Who It’s Best For
Blue Man Group is best for groups looking for a silly and weird experience. It’s also excellent for those that enjoy drums and other musical instruments. And since there’s no age restriction, kids can cut loose and be as loud as they’d like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some questions visitors often ask me about afternoon activities and shows.
Which afternoon show do you not recommend?
I’m not a fan of David Copperfield’s show. I’ve seen it twice, and although it’s in a decent theater at the MGM Grand, the tricks are a little outdated. And I found the jokes strange, too.
For instance, you may see a vehicle appear from under a sheet. Or he might ask the audience to make a hand sign with a hidden meaning.
But the weirdest part for me was the alien creature David talked with during his performance.
So, overall, I think there are better shows in town for the money.
How do you spend your afternoon in Las Vegas?
Going to shows is a great way to spend the day in Las Vegas. But if you’re looking for other things to do, here’s a list of some of my favorites.
- Flyover Flight Simulator Ride
- Escape Room
- High Roller
- Top Golf
- Day trip to Grand Canyon West
- Area15
- Museum of Illusions
- Red Rock Scenic Drive
- Ziplining
- Shark Reef Aquarium
Do Las Vegas shows start on time?
I’ve been to many performances in Las Vegas and have not seen one that started on time. However, they typically begin within a few minutes of their scheduled start time.
Based on my experience, the shows start about 5 minutes late so that any latecomers can get to their seats.
Sometimes, too, there are long lines at the concession stands. So, the venues may delay by a minute or two to allow these guests to return to the theater.
Daytime Shows In Vegas
Get Your Tickets Now
Thanks so much for checking out my favorite afternoon shows in Las Vegas! The button below is my affiliate link where you can check for discount tickets. Buying through my link helps support my website, and it’s at no extra cost to you. So thank you if you do! 🤍 Jenna
My Final Thoughts
Attending daytime shows is how I like spending a Las Vegas afternoon. Prices are usually lower than in the evening, and you’ll still see a top-name performer.
Matinees also give you more flexibility for scheduling dinner. And they don’t interfere with late-night plans like going to a lounge or club.
After seeing almost every afternoon show, the magic productions are my favorite. I haven’t been disappointed yet in any that I’ve seen. And I love that these Las Vegas shows give you a high chance of participating.
But what I enjoy the most about the magic shows is that many of them have comedy, too. So it’s like you’re getting two shows in one!
