***Current as of September, 2024***
Back in the 1980’s, casino mogul Steve Wynn discovered two German magicians named Siegfried & Roy, and hired them to perform at his brand new casino, the Mirage. The pair of magicians (and their beautiful white tigers) were a massive hit, and a Magic Mecca was born!
Today there are literally dozens of magic shows in Las Vegas. From funny comedy magicians to large-scale illusion shows, there’s something for every taste and budget.
As a full-time corporate magician and mentalist, I’ve seen hundreds of magic shows over the years. So if you’re planning a trip to Sin City and don’t know where to start…
Here are my TOP 7 Las Vegas Magic Shows RIGHT NOW:
1. Most Iconic Illusion Show
David Copperfield is a living legend. (Really. The U.S. Library of Congress declared it!), and with a staggering 15 shows per week, he’s one of the hardest working pros you’ll ever see. He’s won countless awards, and audiences all over the world love him.
Whether you remember his Emmy award-winning TV specials, or want to experience his incredible magic for the first time, David combines groundbreaking material with immersive storytelling. And his grand illusions are the best I’ve ever seen. Plus, the theater is more intimate than you’d expect, so every seat has a fantastic view.
Book early, he sells out fast!
2. Best New Magic Show
Farrell Dillon @ Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club at the Linq
Farrell Dillon is a rising star in magic, and he toured the world with Masters of Illusion LIVE. Now, he’s headlining for the first time at Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club at the Linq.
Farrell is cheerful, cheeky, and wholly original, and his blend of quick wit and truly unexpected routines will have you laughing in amazement.
Even though Farrell has one of the newest Las Vegas magic shows, tickets are in high demand. Seats start at $19 for a 75-minute show, so you should take advantage of the opportunity to see Farrell before he blows up. I’m CERTAIN he will. When he does, you can say you saw him first. (Stick around after, get a signed poster, and say hello to Farrell. He’s a great guy, and his enthusiasm is infectious.)
3. Best Matinee Magic Show
Don’t let the plaid suit fool you—Mac King is a world-class comedy magician.
King’s one-man show has delighted audiences for 20 years. It’s a fantastic, family-friendly act filled with outstanding comedy and surprising magic. A few double entendres are just for the grown-ups, but like a great Pixar film, it’s a show kids AND adults will enjoy, featuring a ton of hilarious audience interaction.
And with performances at 1 and 3 PM, no one’s bedtime (or evening dinner plans) will be thrown into chaos.
Mac King has the best matinee magic show in Las Vegas. Bring a date, or bring the family, and prepare to laugh yourself silly.
4. Best Mentalism Show
Frederic Da Silva @ Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally’s)
Frederic Da Silva will make you believe in he can read minds! Da Silva is an incredible showman, and his show “Paranormal” has the highest ratings of ANY magic show on TripAdvisor.
If you’ve never seen mentalism performed on stage before, this is the show to see. Frederic will read minds and make impossible predictions come true. Expect to ask yourself, “How did he know that??” early and often.
Paranormal starts at 4pm, which gives you time to go back to your hotel room afterward and prepare for dinner. While the show is appropriate for all ages… I recommend ages 13+ for mentalism.
Volunteer participation is a highlight of the performance, but if you’re not called up on stage, you can meet Frederic for a free photo op after the show. If you ask nicely… he might even read your mind!
5. Best Inspiring Magic Show
Mat Franco’s show at the the LINQ is called “Magic Reinvented Nightly” and here’s why: Mat features new twists on classic routines, guaranteeing a jaw-dropping experience. That sounds like a perfect fit for a city that’s ALWAYS reinventing itself!
Mat is the first magician to ever win An America’s Got Talent, and he’s charismatic and personable. He’s been performing in Vegas since the age of 15, and proves his childhood joy of magic by sharing a few home video clips.
Whether he’s performing sleight-of-hand card tricks or larger illusions, you’ll be stumped and delighted. Bring the budding magician in your life—they’ll be inspired not only by Mat’s magic, but by his lifelong passion for the craft.
6. Best Off-Strip Magic Show
Hidden gems abound when you venture beyond the Vegas strip, and Jen Kramer epitomizes this fact. Head off the beaten path and you’ll be richly rewarded with a charming, stellar show from a talented phenom straight off the TV show Masters of Illusion. You really won’t see her tricks anywhere else: They’re modern, tech-savvy and captivating.
With shows beginning at 5pm, The Magic of Jen Kramer is a PERFECT way to kick off your night. She even fooled Penn & Teller on their show, which is no easy task.
7. My Favorite Las Vegas Magic Show
Penn & Teller are Las Vegas legends. They’ve been working together since the ‘70s, but their show is always fresh, new, and incredibly inventive! If you enjoy their TV series FOOL US, you’ll be blown away seeing them live.
Penn & Teller aren’t like other magicians. Their chemistry is unparalleled. They do a smart show filled with witty banter and original magic that will fool you hard. And I know… because their show has fooled me again and again!
Pro Tip: The Penn & Teller theater is gorgeous. If you arrive early, you can listen to some wonderful live jazz before the show. And is that Penn playing bass? Yes it is!
FYI: This show can be a little edgy and possibly inappropriate for young children. Strong language is used, so use your discretion.
In Summary…
Every magic show in Las Vegas has something unique to offer, but these are my favorites. Some shows may be better for adults or kids, and some may emphasize comedy or drama. Choose the one that’s best for you, and I have no doubt you’ll have a terrific time!
Oh, and if you want to bring some Las Vegas magic to your next company or association event, please check out my homepage and get in touch. I’m an experienced corporate mentalist & magician and I travel nationwide. Thanks!
