Las Vegas: Dig This – Heavy Equipment Playground

Las Vegas isn’t just about bright lights and high-stakes gambling; it also offers some unexpectedly fun and unique activities — like playing with massive construction equipment. Dig This, the heavy equipment playground, gives you a chance to operate real CAT machines in a safe, controlled environment. It’s a rare experience that combines adrenaline, novelty, and a touch of the construction worker’s world, all set in a sprawling 5-acre site.

What we love about this experience is how genuinely interactive it is — you’re not just watching a demonstration, but actually behind the controls after a safety briefing. The casual yet professional guides make it accessible for first-timers. However, if you’re expecting a typical tour or sightseeing, this might feel more like a workshop with a focus on fun rather than scenery. Best suited for those craving an unconventional, hands-on adventure, or anyone curious about heavy machinery.

While the price of $205 might seem steep for 70 minutes to an hour and a half of play, the level of engagement and the chance to operate real equipment makes it worthwhile for many. Just remember, this is not a typical tourist experience — it’s an activity for those who want something different in Vegas, whether for a solo thrill, a group activity, or an offbeat gift.

Key Points

• Authentic heavy equipment operation in a safe environment
• Professional guides with excellent knowledge and friendly attitudes
• Multiple machine options including bulldozers, excavators, and backhoes
• Limited group size (maximum of 4), creating a personalized experience
• Flexible timing with start times checked upon booking
• Ideal for adventure lovers and those seeking a memorable, hands-on activity

What Makes Dig This Unique

Unlike many Vegas activities that rely on visual spectacle or passive entertainment, Dig This offers a true, tactile experience. You’re given the opportunity to actually dig trenches, push tires, or build mounds with massive CAT machinery. The sense of achievement when you confidently maneuver a bulldozer or excavator is surprisingly rewarding.

The experience starts with a safety orientation — essential when operating heavy equipment — and a warm-up session with your instructor, who is fluent in English and clearly knowledgeable. From there, you’ll get to choose your machine, with options including a climate-controlled bulldozer, excavator, backhoe loader, skid steer, or mini excavator. Each machine offers a different way to get your hands dirty, whether you’re pushing giant tires around, digging trenches, or stacking huge tires.

The Exercises and Their Appeal

The exercises are designed to be both fun and accessible, giving you a tangible sense of how these machines work. For example, building large mounds or pushing tires creates an almost game-like atmosphere, with the added thrill of wielding an actual piece of construction equipment. One reviewer, Nicole, shared that her guide Patrick was “great,” making the experience both casual and professional, which is exactly what you’d want when operating such powerful machinery.

Digging trenches or stacking heavy tires might sound intimidating — but the guides keep things simple and safe. You’ll be surprised how intuitive it feels once you’re behind the controls. Plus, the “Bucket Basketball” game adds an element of playful competition, making it more engaging.

The Experience Itself: What to Expect

The 70-minute to 1.5-hour session begins with a safety briefing that covers how to operate the machinery responsibly. Afterward, your instructor — who, based on reviews, is not only knowledgeable but also personable — guides you through three different exercises.

You might find yourself:

• Building massive dirt mounds — a satisfying way to see your progress
• Digging trenches that seem to stretch endlessly
• Stacking 2,000-pound tires — a surprisingly delicate task when balancing such heavy objects
• Playing Excavator Basketball — a playful twist that mixes construction skills with a little friendly competition

The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures personalized attention, which is especially important when operating machinery that requires focus and confidence.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $205 per person covers your safety orientation, the warm-up, and your time behind the controls of the chosen machines. It’s a fair deal considering the cost of renting such equipment or doing similar activities elsewhere. The inclusion of multiple exercises adds value, giving you a well-rounded experience.

However, extras like gratuity, water, soda, or merchandise are not included, so you might want to bring water or a snack if you plan to stay for a while. Also, parking is straightforward — just use the main entrance marked “ENTER HERE” at the front lot.

What Reviewers Say

Readers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Nicole, who participated recently, noted, “Patrick was great! I had a really good time. Very casual, very professional, and highly recommended.” This highlights how the staff’s approachable attitude makes all the difference, especially for first-timers or nervous newbies.

Another key insight from the reviews is how authentic the experience feels — you’re not just watching a demo but actively controlling the machinery, which is rare in a city known more for shows and casinos. The activity is described as “casual” yet “professional,” striking a good balance for most participants.

Practical Details

• Duration: 70 minutes to 1.5 hours (check availability for specific start times)
• Price: $205 per person, which includes safety briefings and machine time
• Location: Nevada, Las Vegas, on a 5-acre outdoor site
• Meeting point: Front parking lot, marked “ENTER HERE”
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, small group setting

Who Should Book This?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, construction enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable story to tell. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy hands-on activities and aren’t afraid to get a little dirty. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for something completely different will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re after a typical Vegas experience, this might seem out of the ordinary — but if you want to try something genuinely different and exhilarating, Dig This ticks those boxes. It’s also a fantastic gift idea for someone who appreciates a bit of thrill and novelty.

Final Thoughts

In a city filled with glitz and glamour, Dig This offers a refreshingly raw and fun way to break the mold. The chance to operate real construction equipment in a safe setting makes it stand out as a truly interactive activity. The guides’ friendly professionalism, combined with the fun exercises, makes this activity an excellent value for the cost.

Whether you’re a curious visitor or a thrill-seeker, this heavy equipment playground invites you to step into the shoes of a construction worker for a day — an experience that’s as memorable as it is unusual. It’s perfect for those who want to add a dash of adventure to their Vegas itinerary and walk away with stories of confidence and control.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children or only adults?
While the tour is generally geared toward adults, it’s suitable for anyone old enough to operate machinery safely. Check with the provider regarding specific age restrictions or height requirements.

Do I need any prior experience to operate the equipment?
No prior experience is required. The activity begins with a safety briefing and warm-up, and guides are there to assist you through all exercises.

How long does the activity last?
The activity lasts between 70 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on availability and group size.

What machines can I choose from?
Options include a climate-controlled Bulldozer, Excavator, Backhoe Loader, Skid Steer, and Mini Excavator — each offering a different style of fun and challenge.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons. Dress comfortably, and be prepared to get a little dirty.

Are the guides knowledgeable and friendly?
Yes, reviews consistently highlight guides like Patrick, who are praised for their professionalism and approachable manner, making the experience enjoyable and safe.

What is the group size?
The activity is limited to small groups of up to four participants, ensuring personalized guidance and attention.

Overall, Dig This in Las Vegas offers a one-of-a-kind, hands-on adventure that turns heavy machinery into a fun, memorable activity. Whether you’re a gearhead, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for an unusual story to tell, this experience is worth considering when planning your Vegas trip.