Las Vegas is one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States, known for its glitz, glamour, and non-stop entertainment. While it may be known for its casinos and nightlife (and buffets!), the city also offers plenty of family-friendly activities.
Las Vegas was founded in 1905 as a small, isolated desert outpost of the railroad. Soon enough, this railroad brought increased commerce and travelers to the area which was further enhanced by the completion of the Hoover Dam in 1935. In the 1940s and 1950s, organized crime figures such as Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky invested millions of dollars in building casinos and hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. Through the years, Las Vegas has since grown into a major tourist destination, welcoming millions of visitors each year. Las Vegas still contains pieces of its early roots sprinkled around the city in the form of tourist attractions.
From exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding desert to amazing kid-friendly pools and splash pads to visiting museums and attractions unique to Las Vegas, families will find plenty of ways to stay entertained in this bustling, kitschy and fabulous city.
What is the best time to visit Las Vegas?
The peak season in Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and there are several events and festivals taking place. During the summer months of June to August, it can get quite hot. Temperatures can reach over 100°F (38°C), so it may not be the best time to visit if you don’t enjoy hot weather, or have a sensitive child or member of your family. However, this is also when you can find great deals on hotels and activities, and for most families, summer is simply the best time for travel.
Average high temperatures for Las Vegas, Nevada from March to August:
- March: 69°F (21°C)
- April: 78°F (26°C)
- May: 88°F (31°C)
- June: 99°F (37°C)
- July: 104°F (40°C)
- August: 102°F (39°C)
Luckily Las Vegas is filled with many ways to beat the heat, from outdoor misters, to indoor pools and playgrounds, to air conditioned attractions. Also, remember to dress in loose, lightweight clothing so nothing sticks where it’s not supposed to, and stay hydrated, and bring a spray bottle to self mist, which may be a fun distraction for the little ones!
What are the most family-friendly hotels in Las Vegas?
The best area for families to stay in Las Vegas would be on the Strip, particularly in the southern part of the Strip which offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including the Shark Reef Aquarium, the Mandalay Bay Beach and the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition.
Additionally, this area has a good selection of family-friendly hotels with a range of price points, such as the Luxor, Delano, Excalibur, and New York-New York.
MGM Grand
- Mid-Range $$
- South Strip
The MGM Grand is one of the largest hotels in the world, with over 6,800 rooms and suites available. It’s located on the famous Las Vegas Strip and is a popular choice for families visiting the city. The MGM Grand has a variety of entertainment options, including its famous Cirque du Soleil show, “KA,” and a variety of restaurants and bars.
- Grand Pool Complex: The MGM Grand’s pool complex features five pools, three whirlpools, and a lazy river. There’s also a water park area for kids, with a waterfall, fountains, and water cannons.
- Rainforest Cafe: This themed restaurant is a hit with kids, featuring animatronic jungle animals and a fun menu.
- MGM Grand Adventures Theme Park: While the theme park is no longer in operation, the hotel still has a small arcade area that kids will enjoy.
- Virtual Reality Experience: The MGM Grand offers a virtual reality experience that’s popular with older kids and teenagers.
- Stay Well Rooms: These rooms have special amenities designed to promote wellness and good sleep, including air purification systems, aromatherapy, and circadian lighting.
The Mirage
- Mid-Range $$
- South Strip
The Mirage is home to Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, where kids can see dolphins and other marine animals up close. The hotel also has a volcano that “erupts” every night, and a tropical rainforest atrium with waterfalls and exotic plants. The pool area has a lagoon and waterfalls, and there’s also a family-friendly dolphin-themed show called “Aces of Comedy.”
- Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
- Volcano eruption show
- Terry Fator theater show
- Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden exhibit
- Dolphin yoga and painting classes
Excalibur
- Mid-Range $$
- South Strip
Excalibur has a medieval theme, and kids will love the drawbridge and moat at the entrance. The hotel has a 30,000 square foot arcade called Fun Dungeon with carnival-style games, arcade games, and a laser tag arena. The pool area has a water slide and a water cannon, and there’s also a dinner show called “Tournament of Kings” that features knights, jousting, and a four-course meal.
- Medieval-themed decor
- Tournament of Kings dinner show
- Fun Dungeon arcade
- Fantasy Faire Midway games
- 4D movie theater
- Pools and waterslides
New York-New York
- Budget/Mid-range $
- South Strip
This hotel has a mini version of the New York City skyline, complete with the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building. Kids can ride the Big Apple Coaster, which is a roller coaster that goes around the hotel’s exterior. The hotel also has an arcade and a virtual reality experience called The Big Apple Coaster VR Experience. The pool area has a large pool and a lazy river.
- Roller coaster and arcade
- Hershey’s Chocolate World
- Big Apple Coaster virtual reality experience
- Coney Island Emporium arcade
- Shake Shack and other family-friendly restaurants
The Venetian
- Luxury $$$
- South Strip
The Venetian is a luxury hotel with a Venice theme. Kids will love the gondola rides through the hotel’s indoor canals. There’s also an outdoor pool area with several pools and a hot tub. The hotel has a Madame Tussauds wax museum, and the Grand Canal Shoppes has street performers, including stilt walkers and living statues. The hotel also has a show called “Puppet Up!” that features adult-oriented puppetry. While the pool at The Venetian isn’t as spectacular as some of the other pool areas on the strip, the suites have separate living areas which add a lot of square footage to your room.
- Spacious suites with separate living areas and large bathrooms (which is not typical)
- Gondola rides through the hotel’s indoor and outdoor canals
- Multiple pools, including a family-friendly pool area with a shallow wading pool
- The Grand Canal Shoppes, an indoor shopping mall with a wide variety of stores and restaurants
- Madame Tussauds wax museum, featuring lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical figures
- The Palazzo Theater, featuring family-friendly shows like “Human Nature Jukebox” and “The Cocktail Cabaret”
- The “Secret Garden” and “Dolphin Habitat” exhibit, where families can observe dolphins and exotic animals up close.
Mandalay Bay
- Luxury $$$
- South Strip
Mandalay Bay has a shark reef aquarium with over 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Kids can see the animals up close through the aquarium’s underwater tunnel. The hotel also has a wave pool with a sandy beach, and a lazy river. There’s a family-friendly show called “Michael Jackson ONE” that features music and acrobatics.
- Shark Reef Aquarium
- Mandalay Bay Beach wave pool with a sandy beach, and a lazy river
- Children’s pool area
- Virtual reality experience
- Bowling alley and arcade
- Shark-themed slot machines
The Delano Hotel
- Luxury $$$
- South Strip
The Delano Hotel is a luxurious and sophisticated hotel located on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip. While not specifically geared towards families with children, it does offer a number of amenities that can be appealing to families. For one, it’s a hotel that is non-smoking, and does not have a casino, so it is quieter and more private than some hotels. The rooms and suites are spacious and offer plenty of room for families to spread out, including separate living rooms and an additional half bath. The Delano also features a large outdoor pool that is surrounded by cabanas and offers a great place for families to relax and play, plus as a guest of Delano, you have full access to Mandalay Bay Beach, which is a short 10 minute walk.
- Spacious rooms and suites, including separate living rooms, that can accommodate families of all sizes.
- Option of Stay Well rooms which are great for people with allergies.
- Some rooms allow dogs.
- Outdoor pool complex with a wave pool, lazy river, and private cabanas for rent.
- Access to Mandalay Bay Beach, a 11-acre tropical oasis with a sand-and-surf beach, multiple pools, a jogging track, and beachside casino.
- Shark Reef Aquarium located inside Mandalay Bay, featuring more than 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish.
- Access to the fitness center, spa and salon at Mandalay Bay.
Circus Circus
- Budget $
- North Strip
Located on the north part of the Las Vegas Strip, Circus Circus is not located near some of the attractions on the south strip, but still is a very family-friendly (and budget friendly) hotel that kids will love. I still remember staying at this hotel when I was 10 or 11 (in the late 1980s) and how gigantic the arcade was. Today, the hotel features an indoor amusement park called Adventuredome, which has rides, attractions, and games for all ages. There are also circus acts, including acrobats and trapeze artists, that perform throughout the day. The hotel has an arcade and a midway with carnival-style games. The hotel also has a pool area with a water park featuring slides and a wave pool.
- Adventuredome theme park
- Midway games and circus acts
- Pools and water slides
- 4D movie theater
- Carnival games
What Las Vegas hotels have two bathrooms?
If you’re like me, you are probably sick of squeezing a family of four into a single suite and sharing one bathroom. Thankfully Las Vegas has many options for single suites with two bathrooms, or connecting two rooms (often a king to two queens) which can really save the day. In many cases the two bedroom, two bathrooms suites are more expensive than just connecting two rooms, because the suite often comes with a lot more bells and whistles, including premiere views and amenities.
But there are many options to choose from. When making reservations, it may not be possible to make a reservation for “connecting rooms” unless there is a ‘special request’ section–so in this situation, you would book two similar quality rooms (like if you are booking at the Delano, make sure if you are doing a Stay Well, that both rooms are Stay Well, etc), and then call right after booking, and request “connecting rooms” because you are traveling with children (or in case you have a medical condition) and the hotel will try to honor your request (prioritizing travelers with children, and those with medical conditions).
Two Bathroom and 1.5 Bathroom Hotel Suites:
- Skylofts at MGM Grand: The Skylofts at MGM Grand offers luxurious two-story lofts with two marble bathrooms, including a steam shower and spa tub.
- The Mirage: The Mirage’s Two-Bedroom Tower Suite offers two bathrooms, each featuring a Jacuzzi tub, a separate shower, and a double sink vanity.
- The Signature at MGM Grand: The Signature at MGM Grand offers a range of suite options, including the Two Bedroom Balcony Suite, which includes two bathrooms with Jacuzzi spa tubs and a separate shower.
- ARIA Resort & Casino: ARIA Resort & Casino offers several two-bathroom suites, including the City Corner Suite and the Executive Hospitality Suite. These suites feature two full bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs.
- Mandalay Bay: Mandalay Bay offers several two-bathroom options, including the Panoramic Two Bedroom Suite.
- The Delano near Mandalay Bay offers suites with separate living rooms with an attached half bath, bringing the total number of bathrooms up to 1.5 which is fabulous for larger families and groups.
Are there any strictly non-smoking hotels on the Strip?
Yes! While most hotels on the Las Vegas Strip have a non-smoking policy in their rooms and public spaces, some hotels allow smoking in designated areas. If you are a traveling family who would prefer to stay in a hotel that allows zero smoking, this list is for you. Here is a list of some hotels on the Las Vegas Strip with a strict non-smoking policy:
- Vdara Hotel & Spa: This is a completely non-smoking and non-gaming hotel. Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the property, including guest rooms, balconies, and public spaces.
- Delano Las Vegas: This is a non-smoking and non-gaming hotel. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms or public areas. Guests who violate this policy will be charged a cleaning fee.
- Four Seasons Las Vegas: Located on the 35th through 39th floors of Mandalay Bay, Four Seasons has its own separate entrance and is a non-gaming, non-smoking hotel. However, guests of the Four Seasons do have access to the Mandalay Bay casino and its other facilities if they wish to gamble or use those amenities. Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the property, including guest rooms, balconies, and public spaces.
- Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace: This is a non-smoking and non-gaming hotel with a strict non-smoking policy, however it is located inside Caesar’s Palace. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms or public areas.
- Encore at Wynn Las Vegas: This is a non-smoking hotel and casino. Smoking is not allowed in guest rooms or public areas. Guests who violate this policy will be charged a cleaning fee.
What hotels in Las Vegas have the best pools for kids?
Sometimes it’s all about the pool! I hear ya. My family and I also love a great pool complex with lots to do. Sometimes you want sand, other times you want to sit in shallow water, other times you want a wave pool or lazy river. And then there’s the slides. Call us spoiled living so close to Legoland Waterpark, but we really like a good selection of water play. Here is a short roundup of some of the best pools in Las Vegas:
- Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino: Mandalay Bay has 11-acre beach complex called Mandalay Bay Beach which features a beach-like pool area with a wave pool, lazy river, and a sandy beach. There is also a separate pool area for children with a shallow pool and waterfalls.
- The Mirage Hotel and Casino: The Mirage has a family-friendly pool area with a lagoon, waterfalls, and a tropical atmosphere. There is also a separate pool area for children with a shallow pool and water features.
- The Flamingo Las Vegas: The Flamingo has a family-friendly pool area with a water slide, waterfall, and a lagoon. There is also a separate pool area for children with a shallow pool and water features.
- The Venetian Resort: The Venetian has multiple pool areas with cabanas, waterfalls, and a shallow pool for children. The pool areas are surrounded by lush gardens and offer a relaxing atmosphere for families.
- The Golden Nugget Las Vegas: The Golden Nugget has a pool area with a shark tank and a three-story water slide. There is also a separate pool area for children with a water slide and shallow pool.
What hotels in Las Vegas have indoor pools?
Don’t want to deal with the sun and sunscreen? There are plenty of hotels that have indoor pools in Las Vegas that are also family friendly. Some of these hotels allow non-hotel staying guests to swim in their pool for a small fee, like Golden Nugget and a slightly larger fee (cost of cabana or daybed) MGM Grand.
- Golden Nugget Las Vegas: The Golden Nugget has a large indoor pool complex with a 200,000-gallon shark tank. Visitors can take a thrilling water slide ride through the shark tank, and there is also a hot tub and private cabanas available.
- Mirage Hotel & Casino: The Mirage has a tropical-themed indoor pool area called “The Mirage Pool.” It features a coral reef aquarium, waterfalls, and lush foliage. There is also a hot tub and private cabanas available.
- MGM Grand Hotel & Casino: The MGM Grand has an 6.6-acre indoor pool complex called the “Grand Pool Complex.” It features four pools, including a lazy river, a wave pool, and a 1,000-foot-long “river.” There are also several hot tubs and private cabanas available.
- The Venetian Resort: The Venetian has a beautiful indoor pool area called the “Venetian Pool Deck.” It features several pools, hot tubs, and private cabanas. There is also a small garden area with a waterfall, and a bar that serves food and drinks.
- Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino: The Mandalay Bay has a large indoor pool complex called the “Mandalay Bay Beach.” It features a wave pool, lazy river, and a large indoor beach area with real sand. There are also several hot tubs and private cabanas available.
What hotels are dog-friendly?
You may be traveling with your family pet, and wondering where you can stay on the Las Vegas strip with your dog. Here are a few hotels that are dog-friendly:
- The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: allows up to two dogs per room with a maximum weight of 25 lbs per dog. Additional fees apply.
- Vdara Hotel & Spa: allows dogs up to 70 lbs with a maximum of two dogs per room. Additional fees apply.
- Delano Las Vegas: allows up to two dogs per room with a maximum weight of 100 lbs per dog. Additional fees apply.
- Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas: allows pets up to 25 lbs with no additional fees.
What are some kid-friendly buffets?
My kids love buffets! They love being able to get their own food, choose their own items, and of course try an assortment of desserts. Buffets are easily parent approved because even picky eaters can find something to eat at buffets.
- The Buffet at Wynn: This upscale buffet features a large selection of international cuisine, including sushi, seafood, and desserts. Children under 4 eat for free, and there is a special children’s menu for kids ages 4-10.
- Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace: This buffet is known for its diverse and high-quality food options, including a seafood bar, dim sum, and a dessert station. Children under 3 eat for free, and there is a special children’s section with kid-friendly foods.
- The Buffet at Bellagio: This elegant buffet offers a variety of dishes from around the world, including Italian, Japanese, and American cuisine. Children under 5 eat for free, and there is a special children’s menu available.
- Studio B Buffet at M Resort: This buffet features a wide selection of international cuisine, including a seafood station and a carving station. Children under 3 eat for free, and there is a special children’s menu for kids ages 4-8.
- Paradise Garden Buffet at Flamingo Las Vegas: This buffet offers a variety of food options, including a build-your-own pasta station and a dessert bar. Children under 4 eat for free, and there is a special children’s menu available.
What are the best family-friendly attractions in Las Vegas?
Here is a great selection of family-friendly attractions that tick all the boxes. Whether you want to be entertained, thrilled, inspired or relaxed–there are so many options in Las Vegas:
Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas
Wet’n’Wild is a 33-acre water park in Las Vegas with a range of water attractions, including water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are also areas specifically designed for younger children, including a children’s play area with smaller slides and water features. The park is located in the southwest part of the city and is open seasonally from March through September.
Cowabunga Bay
Cowabunga Bay is a family-friendly water park in Henderson, just a short drive from the Strip. The park features a variety of water attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. There is also a children’s play area with smaller slides and water features. Cowabunga Bay is open seasonally from late May through September.
Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium
Located at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, the Shark Reef Aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, and rays. Families can explore the exhibits and even participate in a shark feeding experience.
Explore the Discovery Children’s Museum
The Discovery Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that’s designed for children up to 12 years old. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that focus on science, art, and culture.
Kids Quest at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa
This indoor play area and child care center offers a variety of games and activities, including a rock climbing wall, arcade games, and a play structure. This expansive play space offers a wide range of activities for children ages six weeks to twelve years old, including arcade games, video games, toys, crafts, and more. Kids Quest also features a climbing maze, a movie theater, and an indoor play area with slides and tunnels. Parents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their children are safe and well-cared for while they explore the resort or take some time to relax. The staff at Kids Quest are experienced and trained to provide a fun and engaging environment for kids, making it a great option for families looking for a fun indoor activity in Las Vegas.
Check out the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Located at the Luxor Hotel and Casino, Titanic: The Artifact exhibition features over 250 artifacts from the Titanic, including jewelry, clothing, and even pieces of the ship itself. Visitors can also walk through recreated rooms on the ship, including the grand staircase, and experience the sights and sounds of the Titanic’s tragic voyage. The museum offers an immersive experience that will transport you back in time and give you a deeper understanding of one of history’s most famous disasters.
Race Around the Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix Family Fun Center
The Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix Family Fun Center is an outdoor family entertainment center located in Las Vegas. The center features four go-kart tracks, including one designed specifically for young children, bumper cars, a fun slide, and a large arcade with over 90 games. The fun center also offers a food court with a variety of food options, including pizza, burgers, and hot dogs. The Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix Family Fun Center is open seven days a week and is a popular destination for families with children looking for a fun day out.
Ride the High Roller, the World’s Tallest Ferris Wheel
The High Roller is the world’s tallest observation (ferris) wheel and provides stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip. The 550-foot tall observation wheel is located at the LINQ Promenade and takes riders on a 30-minute ride in one of 28 glass-enclosed cabins, providing stunning views of the Las Vegas valley and the surrounding mountains. The High Roller offers both daytime and nighttime rides, with the nighttime rides being especially popular due to the stunning views of the city’s illuminated skyline. The cabins are also available for private events, including weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations. In addition to the observation wheel, the LINQ Promenade also offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
Visit the Bellagio Fountains
The Bellagio Fountains are a popular Las Vegas attraction and provide a stunning water and light show set to music. The show features more than 1,200 water jets that shoot water up to 460 feet in the air, choreographed to music and lights. The fountains perform daily, with each show lasting about 15 minutes. The performance features a range of music, from classical to contemporary, and includes everything from Andrea Bocelli to Frank Sinatra to Bruno Mars. The Bellagio Fountains are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Las Vegas, and are free to view.
Enjoy the Bellagio Chocolate Fountain
Bellagio has a thing for fountains. The Bellagio chocolate fountain is a large, three-tiered chocolate fountain located in the Bellagio hotel and casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is a popular attraction and is one of the largest chocolate fountains in the world, standing at 27 feet tall. The fountain is made of 2,100 pounds of dark, milk, and white chocolate and circulates approximately 120 quarts of chocolate per minute. Visitors can watch as the chocolate flows from the top tier down to the bottom, and some restaurants in the Bellagio even use the chocolate for their desserts. It is a must-see for any chocolate lover visiting Las Vegas.
See the King Tut Exhibition
Located at The Luxor, The King Tut exhibition is a traveling exhibition that showcases artifacts and treasures from the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut. The exhibition features over 150 replicas of King Tut’s treasures, including jewelry, furniture, and other objects. The replicas are created to scale and are designed to be as accurate as possible to the original artifacts. The exhibition also includes educational displays and multimedia presentations that provide historical and cultural context for the artifacts. The King Tut exhibition has toured many cities around the world, and it has been a popular attraction for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Find the Secret Akhob Installation Inside the Louis Vuitton Store
Secretly located on the top floor of the Louis Vuitton store at The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas, the Akhob Installation is a permanent installation by artist James Turrell. The word akhob is from Egypt’s Amarna period meaning “pure water.” The site-specific installation explores the perception of light and space. Visitors are led into a darkened room and asked to sit on a bench before the doors to the next room open. The second room features an intense, slowly changing, glowing light which transforms the space. The installation is accessed by reservation only and is a unique, immersive experience for those interested in art and contemporary installations (as well as cool photo opportunities). Please note, reservations are required, and only parties of 4 are allowed in at a time. To make a reservation, call (702) 730-3150. NOTE: The reservations are typically booked six to eight weeks in advance.
Visit the Mirage’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
Mirage’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is a unique family-friendly attraction located inside the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The Secret Garden is a wildlife sanctuary featuring exotic animals such as tigers, lions, leopards, and panthers in lush green surroundings. Visitors can learn about these majestic creatures from the informative plaques that line the garden paths and also enjoy live feeding shows. The Dolphin Habitat is home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and provides an educational and interactive experience for guests of all ages. Visitors can observe the dolphins both above and below the water, learn about their behaviors and habits, and even participate in dolphin encounters. The Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat is an excellent destination for families looking to experience the natural world in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
Go to a Magic Show
Las Vegas is known for its world-class magic shows, many of which are suitable for children. Shows like David Copperfield and Penn & Teller provide thrilling performances that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Visit the Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is a unique museum located in Las Vegas that preserves and showcases iconic neon signs from the city’s past. The museum’s collection includes over 200 vintage neon signs that were once part of the city’s famous skyline. Some of the signs date back to the 1930s, and they represent the art, culture, and history of Las Vegas. The Neon Museum offers guided tours that provide insights into the signs and their stories, as well as their restoration and preservation. Visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour of the museum’s outdoor exhibition area, known as the Neon Boneyard. The Neon Museum is a popular destination for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in experiencing the colorful and vibrant side of Las Vegas.
Visit the Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a museum that’s dedicated to preserving and showcasing classic pinball machines. The museum features one of the world’s largest collections of pinball machines, with more than 150 machines from various eras, ranging from the 1950s to the present day. The machines are in working order and visitors can play them using quarters. The Pinball Hall of Fame also features some rare and unique pinball machines that are hard to find anywhere else. The museum is a non-profit organization, and all proceeds from the machines are donated to various charities. The Pinball Hall of Fame is a must-visit for pinball enthusiasts or anyone looking for a fun and unique experience in Las Vegas.
See a Show at the Smith Center
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class performing arts center that features a variety of shows and performances suitable for families. From Broadway productions to orchestral performances, there’s something for everyone.
Visit the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a stunning natural area that’s just a short drive from Las Vegas. The area spans over 195,000 acres of land and is known for its vibrant red rock formations, desert landscape, and diverse plant and animal life. There are plenty of outdoor activities available for visitors, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and scenic drives. The area is also a popular spot for photography and bird-watching. The visitor center offers exhibits and information about the natural and cultural history of the area, and there are guided tours and educational programs available. With its stunning natural beauty and close proximity to the city, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit the Mob Museum
The Mob Museum is a unique museum that explores the history of organized crime in America. The museum presents the history of organized crime in the United States, from the early days of the mob to the present. It features exhibits on the Mafia, the FBI, and other law enforcement agencies, as well as the role of Las Vegas in the development of organized crime. The museum’s collection includes artifacts such as weapons, wiretaps, and photographs, and there are interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what it’s like to be a member of the mob or a law enforcement agent. The Mob Museum is an engaging and educational experience for anyone interested in the history of organized crime and its impact on American society.
Go on a Roller Coaster Ride
Las Vegas has several roller coasters that are suitable for families, such as the Adventuredome at Circus Circus and the coaster at New York-New York.
- The Adventuredome is an indoor amusement park located at Circus Circus hotel and casino in Las Vegas. It features a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages, including roller coasters, a drop tower, bumper cars, a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and more. The park is also home to a number of arcade games, a 4D theater, and a miniature golf course. The Adventuredome offers a number of ticket options, including all-day passes and individual ride tickets, and is open year-round. It is a great destination for families with children or anyone looking for some indoor fun in Las Vegas.These rides offer thrilling experiences that are sure to delight kids and adults alike.
- The coaster at New York New York in Las Vegas is called “The Big Apple Coaster“. It is a steel roller coaster that opened in 1997. The coaster is designed to look like a yellow taxicab and features two inversions, a vertical loop, and a dive loop. The coaster reaches a top speed of 67 miles per hour and has a drop of 144 feet. The ride lasts for approximately 2 minutes and 45 seconds. The Big Apple Coaster is a popular attraction at New York New York and is suitable for thrill-seekers and roller coaster enthusiasts.
Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden offers visitors the chance to see how chocolate is made and explore a stunning garden filled with over 300 species of cacti. Families can take a self-guided tour of the factory and garden and even sample some delicious chocolate.
The company is named after Ethel Mars, the mother of Forrest Mars Sr., who co-founded the Mars candy company. Ethel M Chocolates specializes in premium chocolate products, including truffles, caramels, and nut clusters, seasonal items like chocolate Santas and heart-shaped boxes for Valentine’s Day, and her signature gourmet liquor filled chocolates which come in a variety of flavors, such as dark chocolate and amaretto, milk chocolate and Bailey’s Irish Cream, and dark chocolate and Jack Daniel’s.
Play mini golf at KISS by Monster Mini Golf
KISS by Monster Mini Golf is a unique mini golf course that’s inspired by the iconic rock band. The course features glow-in-the-dark elements and fun obstacles, making it a great activity for families.
Take a gondola ride at the Venetian
The Venetian is a luxury resort that features a replica of Venice’s famous canals. Families can take a gondola ride and enjoy the scenery, complete with singing gondoliers.
Experience the Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is a unique art installation located in the Nevada desert outside of Las Vegas. The artwork consists of seven towering, brightly colored stacks of boulders that rise up to 35 feet high. The installation was created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone and was first unveiled in 2016. The site has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, and visitors can walk around the base of the colorful pillars and take photos against the stunning desert backdrop. The installation is free to visit and is open to the public year-round. It offers a fun and unique experience for families with kids to enjoy some outdoor art and a break from the city.
Visit the National Atomic Testing Museum
The National Atomic Testing Museum is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum that documents the history of nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site in the desert north of Las Vegas. The museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and artifacts from the atomic age, including a large collection of declassified documents, photographs, and videos. Visitors can learn about the science of nuclear weapons, the Cold War era, and the impact of nuclear testing on society and the environment. The museum also has a variety of educational programs and events, including lectures, films, and workshops.
Tour the Burlesque Hall of Fame
The Burlesque Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to the history of burlesque, featuring costumes, props, and other memorabilia from some of the most famous burlesque performers of all time.
Discover the Clark County Wetlands Park
Clark County Wetlands Park is a natural area in Las Vegas that is home to a variety of plants and wildlife. The park is situated on 2,900 acres of land, and includes walking trails, ponds, and bird watching areas. The park was created to help protect the natural wetlands that once covered much of the Las Vegas Valley, and also to provide a place for the community to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park offers a number of educational programs and events, including guided nature walks, bird watching tours, and workshops on topics such as composting and sustainable gardening. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, and admission is free.
Check out the Container Park
Container Park is a unique outdoor shopping and entertainment center located in downtown Las Vegas. The park is made up of shipping containers that have been repurposed into stores, restaurants, and bars. In addition to shopping and dining, the park features a playground for kids, a treehouse, and an outdoor stage for live music and events. The centerpiece of the park is a 55-foot-tall metal praying mantis that shoots flames from its antennae, adding to the park’s quirky and fun vibe. Container Park is a popular destination for families and tourists looking for a unique shopping and dining experience in Las Vegas.
Visit the Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum
This attraction may not be suitable for the very young and sensitive. The Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum is a museum dedicated to the paranormal and features a collection of haunted objects and artifacts. The museum was opened by Zak Bagans, the host of the popular TV show “Ghost Adventures,” and features a large collection of haunted and cursed objects.
The museum is located in a historic mansion in downtown Las Vegas and contains over 30 rooms filled with eerie artifacts, including a dybbuk box, the staircase from the infamous “Demon House” in Indiana, and a mirror that is said to be haunted by the spirit of a witch.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum, during which they will hear the stories behind each object and learn about the paranormal experiences that have been reported by visitors and staff. The museum also offers a variety of special events and experiences, including ghost hunting tours, séances, and psychic readings.
See the Hoover Dam from a helicopter
While the Hoover Dam is a well-known attraction, seeing it from a helicopter offers a unique perspective. Visitors can take a helicopter tour of the dam and the surrounding area for an unforgettable experience.
This concludes our list of amazing things to do in Las Vegas. While Las Vegas may be known for its casinos and nightlife, you can see there’s plenty of fun to be had for families as well. Whether you’re exploring natural wonders or checking out one-of-a-kind museums and attractions, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.