What To Do In Vegas With Kids

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Welcome to the glittering and vibrant city of Las Vegas – where the fun never stops and nights are wide awake! 

While it’s true that Las Vegas is renowned for its world-class casinos and unique adult-only entertainment and attractions – believe it or not, it’s also a fantastic destination for families with kids! I know, because I’m a local and have kids and grandkids of my own.

With dozens of attractions and activities, the city offers a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and adventure for kids of all ages. 

From breathtaking shows to theme parks and museums, there’s no shortage of things to do in Vegas for kids.

If you’re planning a family trip to fabulous Las Vegas, there’s no need to leave kids at home because I’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to the best family-friendly activities in Las Vegas. 

So, get ready to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones in one of the most exciting cities in the world!

What can kids do in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a city that is, first and foremost, about glitz and glamour. That said, there is also a kid-friendly Vegas that makes my town a great family vacation destination, too!

Many of the most popular things to do with kids in Las Vegas can be found in and around the famous Las Vegas Strip. 

There are more laid-back activities like nature walks and dinosaur exhibits at Springs Preserve. Or, for a dose of adrenaline, ride the roller coasters at Adventuredome, or go for a ride on the X Scream at the Stratosphere Hotel. 

Other top family-friendly activities in Las Vegas include:

Best things to do in Las Vegas with kids on The Strip

Circus Circus Adventuredome

This indoor amusement park at Circus Circus Hotel offers exciting rides and attractions to keep your kids occupied all day. Aside from indoor twisting roller coaster rides, Adventuredome offers race car speedways, laser beam escape rooms, roller skating, and midway games.

Many come for the roller coasters though. The Canyon Blaster is the only indoor double-loop double-corkscrew coaster in the world!

Other popular rides include the Disk’ O, a spinning ride that tilts at a 45-degree angle, and the Sling Shot, which catapults riders over 100 feet in the air.

High Roller Observation Wheel

It’s time for one of largest and most exciting things to do in Las Vegas with kids. Head over to The LINQ Promenade for an exhilarating and epic view of Las Vegas, right in the heart of the Vegas Strip, by way of the one and only High Roller Observation Wheel.

This 550-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes, and each cabin can hold up to 40 people. Kids will love the bird’s eye view of Las Vegas and the opportunity to take fantastic photos!

Shark Reef Aquarium

“Finding Nemo” fans! Get excited because the marine adventure is about to begin at the Shark Reef Aquarium!

Located at Mandalay Bay, this 1.3-million-gallon aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals worldwide. The aquarium features 14 exhibits, including a 1.3-million-gallon Shipwreck exhibit where visitors can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and other sea creatures.

One of the most exciting things about Shark Reef Aquarium is the interactive exhibits allowing kids to get up close and personal with the marine life. 

For example, the Touch Pool exhibit will enable kids to touch and interact with sea stars and other creatures.

Meanwhile, the Shipwreck exhibit features a tunnel visitors can walk through, surrounded by sharks!

The Tank at Golden Nugget

A family favorite thing to do with kids in Las Vegas is a swim through The Tank Pool and HideOut complex at Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. 

Open March through November, guests can take a ride down the pool’s popular water slide through a shark-filled tank!

The HideOut complex boasts a 200,000-gallon shark tank aquarium and 17 private cabanas for mom, dad, and guests over 21 to enjoy!

Bellagio Fountains

Contrary to what you may think, every attraction in Las Vegas doesn’t have a price tag. 

Let me introduce you to one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas with kids: Bellagio Fountains – right in front of Bellagio Hotel & Casino is a free show featuring a synchronized display of water, music, and lights. 

The fountains shoot water up to 460 feet in the air, taller than the grand Bellagio hotel itself, and are set to music by various artists. 

Kids will love the spectacle of the fountains and the chance to see them dance along to their favorite songs!

The Mirage Volcano

The Mirage Volcano is a must-see attraction for families visiting Las Vegas (although it is sadly being closed, likely in 2024). This impressive volcano is The Strips’s first hotel feature attraction in front of The Mirage.

You can literally feel the heat as this nighttime volcano experience erupts into an impressive fire display. Thrilling, entertaining, and breathtaking, fire, water, and sound collide every night in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip for the perfect way to spend an evening with your family – free of charge!

The show starts with a serene and mystical ambiance, calming music, and cascading waterfalls. Then, the volcano erupts with a stunning display of flames and smoke, and the ground vibrates with the sound of the eruption – a whole sensory experience.

Your kids will be amazed by the vibrant colors, the roaring sound, and the intense heat that the volcano produces. The show lasts about 10-15 minutes, the perfect amount of time to keep kids engaged and entertained.

Pinball Hall of Fame

Ordinarily, you may want to snatch all the games from your kids if they play them like crazy. But not in Vegas!

At the Pinball Museum in Las Vegas, you, with the kids, can play hundreds of pinball machines for cheap. Spend about $20 on quarters, and you’re all set for a couple of hours!

This museum is a mecca for pinball and gaming enthusiasts and features over 150 pinball machines from all eras. 

Kids can enjoy playing with classic machines from the 1950s and 1960s and newer machines from the 1990s and 2000s. The museum also features a variety of arcade games and, of course, for mom and dad – slot machines!

Best things to do in Vegas off The Strip with kids

Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix

Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix is a fun-filled destination for families with kids in Las Vegas. Nestled just a few miles west of the famous Las Vegas Strip, it offers a range of activities perfect for children of all ages.

One of the main attractions at the Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix is go-kart racing, which features four tracks. There’s also a selection of amusement rides, including a roller coaster, a tilt-a-whirl, and a spinning teacup ride. In addition, there’s an arcade with a range of video games and other attractions.

Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is an impressive engineering marvel located just 40 minutes drive from Las Vegas, and it’s a great addition to your family vacation itinerary! 

This iconic structure is not only a significant source of hydroelectric power for the Southwest, but it’s also a popular tourist destination.

Visiting the Hoover Dam with your kids is a perfect opportunity to learn about the history and significance of a US architectural wonder. 

You can take a guided tour of the dam, where your kids can explore the inner workings and learn about the construction process, purpose, and impressive capabilities of this megastructure.

Your kids will be amazed at the sheer size of the Hoover Dam and the stunning views of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States. 

The dam’s observation deck and bridge offer incredible views of the surrounding area and a perfect opportunity to take family photos.

Grand Canyon tours

Grand Canyon tours are not even close to the Las Vegas Strip. In fact, The Grand Canyon is not even in the state of Nevada! But it’s close enough that a tour bus, car, or helicopter will pick you up from The Strip for a day trip to see some of the most incredible natural wonders of the world!

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Too much of the buzz and bustle of the city already? 

Then, fancy some outdoor things to do in Las Vegas with the kids?

The breathtaking landscape of towering red rock mountain formations, desert flora, and diverse wildlife make The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area a fantastic location for hiking, rock climbing, and nature photography. 

A stunning outdoor destination offering various activities for Las Vegas families and kids. Located 25-30 minutes from The Strip, this beautiful conservation area is perfect for escaping, enjoying, and experiencing Nevada nature with your kids, with over 26 hiking trails.

Springs Preserve

Located near Las Vegas’ Historic Westside, the Springs Preserve is home to botanical gardens, nature trails, and a museum that teaches kids about the history and ecology of the Mojave Desert. 

The preserve is also home to a butterfly habitat, where visitors can observe and learn about the different species of butterflies in the area.

Ice Age Fossils State Park

Ice Age Fossils State Park in North Las Vegas is an open area state park with walking trails and outdoor exhibits commemorating several species of now-extinct mammals, including Columbian mammoths, American lions, camels, dire wolves, and ground sloths. The discovery of abundant fossils on site prompted this Nevada state park 7 years in the making. The park is family and pet-friendly!

Downtown Container Park

The Downtown Container Park is a unique and innovative outdoor shopping and entertainment destination that is perfect for kids in Las Vegas. Located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas (DTLV), the park is constructed entirely from shipping containers. It offers various activities and attractions designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages.

In addition to shopping and dining, the Downtown Container Park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including live music performances, movie screenings, and art exhibits. 

Visitors can check the park’s calendar to see what events are happening during their visit.

One of the standout features of the Downtown Container Park is its giant praying mantis sculpture, which sits at the entrance to the park and delights visitors with its spectacular nightly light and sound show.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park

Cowabunga Bay Water Park is a family-friendly destination that promises a fun-filled day out for kids in Las Vegas in the heated desert summer days.

Located just a few minutes from the famous Las Vegas Strip, the water park is designed to provide visitors with an immersive and exciting water adventure.

The park features a variety of water slides and pools, including a wave pool, a lazy river, and several high-speed water slides. 

For thrill-seekers, the park has a range of extreme slides, such as the “Zuma Zooma,” “Wild Surf,” and “Point Panic.” There are also several areas designed for younger children, including the “Cowabunga Kids Cove” and “Splash Island,” where little ones can enjoy gentler slides and water play.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a fascinating and educational attraction that offers kids and families a fun and engaging experience. Located in DTLV, this museum has exhibits showcasing the world’s natural wonders.

The museum is divided into themed galleries, each with its unique focus, including dinosaurs, marine life, ancient Egypt, and more. 

Children will be amazed by the life-sized dinosaur exhibits, which include the famous Tyrannosaurus Rex, as well as a variety of other prehistoric creatures. 

The marine life exhibit is also a favorite, with its large aquariums featuring a variety of fish and sea creatures.

DISCOVERY Children’s Museum

Located in DTLV adjacent to The Smith Center is the Las Vegas DISCOVERY Children’s Museum. 

Yet another learning-filled attraction in Las Vegas for kids!

This museum is designed to be an interactive and educational experience for children of all ages. 

It features three floors of interactive exhibits, galleries, and programs that engage children in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).

One of the most popular exhibits at the Discovery Children’s Museum is the “Water World” exhibit, featuring interactive models of the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Bypass Bridge, the presentation helps kids understand how water works. 

Kids can learn about the science of water as they play with fountains, water wheels, and other interactive exhibits. They can also experiment with the flow and pressure of water and even get wet in the process!

Paradox Museum Las Vegas

The Paradox Museum Las Vegas is described as a tickle of the mind and a place where nothing makes sense, yet everything is real! It’s a must-see, must-experience destination for all ages. A space of ultimate creativity and questioning.

Paradox is an Ancient Greek word meaning ‘contrary to expectation’ or ‘incredible.’ This museum promises a contradictory common sense – where true is false and false is true. Essentially, real paradoxes – and a Las Vegas attraction with an all-5-star review!

Area15

Area15 is an interactive neon lights shopping, entertainment, and dining district that opened in early 2021 in Las Vegas. 

It’s an immersive experience that combines museums, games, restaurants, bars, and nightlife into one colossal warehouse area. 

Inside, you’ll find art installations, an indoor golf experience, dueling axes, and so much more! You’ll surely have a great time with your friends and family here! The various attractions in the area offer something for everyone!
I also share free things to do at Area15 in my post HERE.

Meow Wolf Omega Mart

Step into the whimsical wonderland of Meow Wolf (inside Area15). A colossal 52,000-square-foot interactive art extravaganza nestled right here in Las Vegas.

Prepare for a journey like no other as you step into one of the city’s most exotic and enthralling experiences. Kids and adults – let your senses run wild in Meow Wolf’s fictional store, Omega Mart, a gateway to an alternate reality and a portal to vibrant realms that tantalize both your eyes and ears with an enchanting symphony of sights and sounds that defy explanation.

Each corner and installation invites you to dive headfirst into the extraordinary. It’s an invitation to challenge your perceptions, to dance on the edge of imagination, and to emerge with a renewed sense of wonder!

Illuminarium

Explore one of Las Vegas’s most unique virtual reality experiences inside the Illuminarium, a stand-alone building on the campus of Area15.

Inside, there are adventures for adults and kids. Kids can explore the depths of space or embark on an African safari. While mom and dad sip cocktails in a Tokyo night market.

From exhilarating natural wonders to enriching cultural moments and beyond, the Illuminarium will immerse you in the world’s most extraordinary experiences via innovative 4K interactive screen projection, 360-degree audio, in-floor vibrations, and scent systems promising “cinematicimmersion like never before!” Illuminarium offers a family-friendly experience during the day and transforms into an adults-only venue at night.

Battle Bots Destruct-A-Thon

You’ve seen the TV show, now experience the Battle Bots DESTRUCT-A-THON! The world’s first daily robot combat show featuring the most famous fighting robots on Earth! From the creators of the hit TV show BattleBots, get your tickets to this exhilarating tech-competition show exclusive to Las Vegas. 

The Sphere Experience

The Sphere is part of The Venetian Resort, a spherical music and entertainment arena, large enough to fit the entire Statue of Liberty inside and technologically advanced that its exterior projection comprises over 580,000 square feet of LED lights. Bright enough to be seen from outer space!

There are multiple ways to marvel at this incredible arena that sits off The Strip, just East of the Venetian Hotel & Casino. It’s open for concerts, events, and inside tours called ‘The Sphere Experience.‘

Things to do in Las Vegas with kids FAQs

What are the best free things to do with kids in Vegas?

Las Vegas is known for its luxurious hotels, casinos, and shows, but there are plenty of free things to do with kids in the city. 

Here are some of the best free activities for families to enjoy:

• The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo – This serene oasis is home to exotic birds, turtles, fish, and pink flamingos. The habitat is free to enter and offers kids and families a peaceful break from the buzz of the Las Vegas Strip.
• Mermaid Aquarium at Silverton Casino Lodge – The Silverton Casino boasts a stunning 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that attracts visitors’ attention. The aquarium showcases thousands of tropical fish, including 100 different species of fish, four types of sharks, and five types of stingrays. Interestingly, Las Vegas Mermaids (a distinctive class of mermaids) can also be found in the aquarium!
• The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign – This iconic neon sign is a must-visit family and kid spot to receive a warm welcome into the city. The Las Vegas sign is located at the south end of The Strip and is free to visit and take photos.
• Las Vegas Arts District – This neighborhood just west of The Strip has various art galleries, vintage shops, restaurants, and murals. Your kids will love strolling in the streets and admiring the colorful walls and street art.
• Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a breathtaking attraction inside the Bellagio Hotel & Casino. With more than 20,000 square feet of meticulously designed floral displays. The exhibits change with the seasons and feature a stunning array of flowers, plants, and trees, as well as seasonal decorations and sculptures. A tour to Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is worth a shot in Las Vegas with kids and family.
• Bellagio Chocolate Fountain – Holding the Guinness World Record for the largest chocolate fountain in the world! A free must-see inside the Bellagio Hotel & Casino’s Patisserie, just past the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.
• Bellagio Fountains – Right in front of Bellagio Hotel & Casino is a free show featuring a synchronized display of water, music, and lights. The fountains shoot water up to 460 feet in the air, taller than the grand Bellagio hotel itself, and are set to music by various artists. 
• The Mirage Volcano – A must-see attraction for families visiting Las Vegas (until it says goodbye in 2024). This impressive volcano is The Strips’s first hotel feature attraction in front of The Mirage. You can feel the heat as this nighttime volcano experience erupts into a remarkable fire display!
• The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil rainbow stage- The iconic Cirque show inside the Mirage Hotel is not free. However, a fun and vibrant interactive rainbow color-changing stage is adjacent to the show’s gift shop. Kids and adults alike should see and take a picture here!
• Resorts World The Globe – Resorts World is one of The Strip’s new millennium hotels, opening its doors in 2020. This robust red hotel is decorated with exterior digital screens that can be seen from as high as a helicopter orphan in the air is the destination for youthful vibes and high energy. Kids will love the digital sphere Globe in the center of the hotel’s shopping mall, The District at Resorts World.
• Seven Magic Mountains – Why is it called Seven Magic Mountains? Because seven totems were carefully curated, crafted, colored, and stacked to stand at mountain height. Another unique experience to check off your only-in-Vegas bucket list!

Is Fremont Street OK for kids?

Fremont Street Experience is generally considered safe and appropriate for kids. While the area is primarily known for its adult-oriented nightlife and casinos, many family-friendly activities and attractions are available, and best served during the day. 

Fremont Street is home to various street performers and musicians, providing lively entertainment for children and adults. 

The SlotZilla zipline attraction is another popular activity that older kids and teenagers may enjoy as they zip over the crowds below!

Fremont Street also has several family-friendly restaurants, shops, and arcades. Kids can enjoy classic arcades and carnival-style games and pick up souvenirs to remember their trip to Las Vegas.

Can kids go inside casinos in Vegas?

In Las Vegas, children can walk through casinos as long as an adult accompanies them. However, they are not allowed to gamble or hang out in the gaming areas. 

The legal gambling age in Las Vegas is 21, and all casinos must enforce this age limit. Therefore, children may not enter certain casino areas, such as the gaming floor or the bars.

What is the cheapest part of Vegas?

The cheapest part of Vegas will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you want affordable accommodation, consider staying off The Strip in Downtown Las Vegas or the surrounding suburbs. 

You can also find more affordable dining options off The Strip, such as local diners and chain restaurants.

Regarding entertainment, there are several free attractions and activities for families to enjoy, such as the Bellagio Fountains, the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, and the Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo. 

Additionally, several hiking trails and outdoor recreational areas in and around the city are free to explore.

Can kids go to downtown Las Vegas?

Yes, kids can go to Downtown Las Vegas. Downtown Las Vegas is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. 

Downtown Las Vegas (DTLV) is home to the Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall with light shows, live music, and street performers. Several museums and galleries in the area, such as the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum, offer educational and engaging experiences for kids.

Moreover, many restaurants and dining options in DTLV cater to families with various cuisines and price points. The area also offers affordable accommodations, making it an excellent choice for families on a budget.

What part of Las Vegas is family-friendly?

While Las Vegas is often associated with its famous nightlife and adult-oriented entertainment, many parts of the city are family-friendly. 

Some of the best areas for families to stay and explore include The Strip, which offers a variety of family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and attractions, such as the Bellagio Fountains, Mirage’s volcano, and the High Roller Observation Wheel.

The Downtown area, particularly the Fremont Street Experience, also has many family activities and attractions. These include the Viva Vision light show, street performers and musicians, and the SlotZilla zipline attraction.

The Container Park is another popular family-friendly spot featuring a playground, restaurants, and shops made from recycled shipping containers.

Outside of the main tourist areas, families can enjoy many parks and recreational areas, such as Springs Preserve and the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

In short, Las Vegas has plenty of family-friendly options, and it is possible to enjoy the city with children by choosing the right areas and activities that suit their interests and ages.

Did you enjoy this roundup of things to do in Las Vegas with kids? Comment below and let me know, and check out my post on the best things to do in Las Vegas for teens.

“When you visit any of these featured Las Vegas attractions, mention you heard about them from Vegas Right Now!”

Thank you! —Shaunda Necole

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