Las Vegas Super Saver: Madame Tussauds with Gondola Boat Ride

When planning a visit to Las Vegas, many travelers look for experiences that blend iconic sights with a touch of entertainment. The Las Vegas Super Saver package, which combines Madame Tussauds and a Gondola Ride at The Venetian, offers a unique way to enjoy two popular attractions at a reasonable price. While this combo provides a convenient way to make the most of your time, it’s important to weigh what really makes it special—and what might fall short.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to capture photos with beloved celebrities at Madame Tussauds is genuinely fun, especially for those who enjoy quirky selfie opportunities. Second, the romantic gondola ride offers a taste of Venice right in Las Vegas, with serene waters and a singing gondolier that can turn an ordinary day into a memorable one. One consideration to keep in mind is that the gondola ride reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, and the gondola itself is shared with other parties, which might affect the privacy and timing for some.

This package is especially suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who appreciates a light-hearted, photo-friendly experience. If your goal is to enjoy iconic Las Vegas sights without spending too much time or money, this combo offers a compact, enjoyable outing.

Key Points

• Combines two top attractions: Madame Tussauds and the Venetian Gondola Ride
• Easy to book and flexible, with options to enjoy both in one day or separately
• Perfect for photos, fun, and a taste of Venice in Vegas
• The gondola ride is shared but serenaded, adding charm
• Cost-effective for the experience offered
• Requires in-person reservation for the gondola, not included in initial ticket

What the Tour Entails: A Detailed Walkthrough

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Wax Figures and Celebrity Fun

Your journey begins at Madame Tussauds, located conveniently at The Venetian on the Strip. The experience lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, giving you ample time to stroll through the exhibit and snap pictures with wax figures of current celebrities and vintage icons. The figures are notably well-lit, making for great photographs, and the atmosphere is lively but not rushed.

Most visitors appreciate how lifelike the wax figures appear, and many describe the experience as “delightful,” with the opportunity to interact with figures like Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, or even fictional characters. One reviewer remarked, “It was fun taking pictures with all the wax figures! The lighting allows everyone to be a great photographer,” which speaks to the accessibility of a casual, enjoyable visit.

Some travelers, however, have been disappointed, citing the short duration or the wax figures being “not all on display,” which can be a letdown if you expect a comprehensive museum experience. Reservations are not required, but you’ll need to collect your tickets first—so plan to arrive a little early to beat the crowds.

The Gondola Ride: A Slice of Venice

After enjoying the wax museum, you’ll receive a voucher for the outdoor gondola ride. Keep in mind that reservations are required for the gondola and must be made in person—these are first come, first served, and the ride often sells out, so arriving early or planning ahead is wise.

The 15-minute ride takes you on a serene cruise along the outdoor Grand Canal at The Venetian, beneath picturesque bridges and past decorative facades. While the ride is shared, the singing gondolier often adds a memorable touch. Several reviewees mention the serenades—one even noted, “the gondola man was a Tenor singer & he sang to us—it was lovely,” which elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a mini performance.

A common praise is the joy of seeing Venice-style scenery right in Vegas, and many find the cost of the gondola ticket to be a good value, especially since it’s valid for up to a year, allowing for flexibility if you wish to revisit on a different day.

The Surroundings: The Grand Canal Shoppes

Adjacent to the gondola ride, the Grand Canal Shoppes offer a lush shopping experience with high-end brands and other attractions. While entry is free, the atmosphere adds to the overall charm of the area, making it easy to extend your visit with some window shopping or a quick snack.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Experience

Timing Matters: Since Madame Tussauds is open from 10 AM to 8 PM daily, plan to arrive earlier in the day to avoid peak crowds. Remember, you need to visit Madame Tussauds first to receive your gondola voucher.

Reservation for Gondola: Don’t forget—you’ll need to reserve your gondola ride in person after collecting your ticket. Arriving early on the day of your visit increases your chances of securing a preferred time slot.

Group Size and Atmosphere: The gondola is shared, which can mean a more lively, social vibe. If you’re after privacy, note that a private boat comes with an extra fee.

Price versus Value: At $64.99 per person, this package offers a couple of attractions at a reasonable price—especially considering the photo opportunities and the scenic ride. It’s a value for those who enjoy light entertainment and iconic sights.

Weather Considerations: Since the gondola ride is outdoor, weather can influence your experience. Rain or wind might lead to indoor alternatives or rescheduling, but some reviews mention indoor gondola substitutes, which might be just as charming.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reviews

While most reviews are positive, some travelers have expressed disappointment. One reviewer bluntly stated, “Don’t waste your money,” citing the short stay at Madame Tussauds and a nothing-special gondola ride. Conversely, others rave about the singing gondolier and the great photo ops.

A standout review shared, “It was a fun time taking pictures with all the wax figures! There were vintage icons and lots of current celebrities! I think the lighting allows everyone to be a great photographer.” This highlights the appeal for photo enthusiasts and families.

Another reviewer pointed out that the gondola ride can be very memorable and cute, especially with the serenading gondolier who even sang Happy Birthday in Italian—adding a personalized, charming touch.

However, it’s important to note that some reviews are more critical, citing the small size of the gondola and the short duration, which could feel underwhelming if expectations aren’t managed.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

This combo tour offers a playful, scenic, and photo-friendly experience that fits well into a day of sightseeing in Las Vegas. For families, couples, or first-time visitors, it provides a good balance of entertainment and iconic sights without breaking the bank.

The value lies in the flexibility—you can enjoy both attractions in one day or spread them out, making it adaptable to your schedule. The gondola ride’s serenades and the wax museum’s celebrity figures deliver authentic, memorable moments.

However, if you’re seeking a lengthy museum experience or a private, quiet boat ride, this package might leave you wanting more. The shared gondola, in particular, is a charming but more social affair, not a private romantic cruise.

This experience strikes a nice balance between fun and affordability, making it a worthwhile addition for those eager to tick off two major Venetian-themed attractions in Vegas.

FAQ

Do I need to book the gondola ride in advance?
Yes, reservations are required and must be made in person after collecting your Madame Tussauds tickets. It’s best to arrive early to secure a good time slot.

Can I do the attractions on different days?
Yes, the tickets are valid for up to a year for the gondola ride, so you can enjoy the wax museum and gondola experience separately if you prefer.

Is the gondola ride shared or private?
The gondola is shared with other parties unless you pay an additional fee for a private boat. The ride typically lasts about 15 minutes.

How long does the Madame Tussauds visit take?
Most travelers spend around 1 hour 30 minutes exploring the wax figures, but it can vary depending on crowds and photo-taking pace.

What is included in the package?
Your package includes admission to Madame Tussauds and an outdoor gondola ride at The Venetian. Food, beverages, and hotel transfers are not included.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed, and you just need to follow the reservation process for the gondola.

What are the operating hours?
Madame Tussauds is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM. The gondola ride reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, and hours depend on availability.

To sum it up, the Las Vegas Super Saver package offers a lively, photo-ready experience that combines celebrity fun with scenic serenity. It’s best suited for those who enjoy light entertainment, quick sightseeing, and capturing great photos—especially if you’re after good value and flexible scheduling. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to add some Venetian flair to your Vegas trip, this combo provides a whimsical, memorable outing.