The real magic of a Las Vegas family vacation often begins where the Strip ends. While the city offers endless excitement, the surrounding desert holds some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. Trading the neon lights for the fiery red rocks of the Valley of Fire or the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam adds a whole new dimension to your trip. This guide will show you how to balance city fun with outdoor adventure, creating a well-rounded experience for your crew. We’ll explore the best Las Vegas family activities both in the city and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Venture beyond the Strip for unforgettable adventures: The city’s best family experiences are often found away from the casino floor. Balance the excitement of the Strip with a day trip to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, or the Hoover Dam.
- Build your itinerary around your family’s interests: Create a trip everyone will love by choosing hotels with amazing pools, finding shows that will captivate your kids, and picking restaurants that make mealtime fun and easy.
- Combine free attractions with a planned excursion: Make the most of your budget by enjoying free sights like the Bellagio Fountains, then invest in a key experience. A private tour simplifies day trips and lets you focus on making memories without the stress of navigating.
Is Las Vegas Actually Kid-Friendly?
When you think of Las Vegas, “family vacation” might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But let’s set the record straight: Las Vegas is a surprisingly fantastic destination for kids. The city has worked hard to create an environment where families can have an amazing time, full of adventure and excitement that has nothing to do with casinos. From incredible shows to breathtaking natural wonders just a short drive away, you’ll find plenty of ways to create unforgettable memories with your children.
Why There’s More to Vegas Than Casinos
Let’s be honest, Las Vegas has a reputation. But while it was once known almost exclusively as an adult playground, the city has transformed. You can plan an incredible trip here without ever stepping foot on a casino floor. The city now brims with attractions, shows, and activities designed for kids of all ages. From mind-bending magic shows to interactive exhibits, the focus has shifted to providing entertainment for everyone. The real adventure for families often lies in discovering the city’s unique sights on The Famous Las Vegas Tour and exploring the incredible experiences that exist just beyond the neon glow.
Fun for Every Season
No matter when you visit, Las Vegas delivers family fun. The city is packed with year-round activities that make it a reliable choice for any school break. During the hot summer months, you can escape the heat in world-class aquariums, hands-on museums, and thrilling indoor theme parks. When the weather is milder, the outdoor adventures are spectacular. You can explore stunning natural landscapes on a Red Rock Canyon tour or enjoy one of the many free attractions on the Strip, like the famous fountain shows or hotel wildlife habitats. Las Vegas offers a unique backdrop for creating lasting family memories, proving it’s a destination that can truly surprise you.
Find Your Family’s Favorite Vegas Attraction
Las Vegas is packed with incredible sights and activities that go way beyond the casino floor. Whether your family is full of thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or budding artists, there’s an attraction that will make your trip unforgettable. The key is to match the activity to your family’s energy. Do you need to burn off some energy indoors, or are you looking for a show-stopping spectacle? From high-flying roller coasters to serene wildlife habitats, you can find something for every age and interest.
Think of the Strip and its surroundings as a giant playground. You can spend one day exploring underwater worlds and the next touching the clouds from the top of a skyscraper. If you want to mix and match these city adventures with a trip to see the area’s natural beauty, a custom tour can help you build the perfect itinerary for your family. Let’s find the perfect spot for your crew.
Beat the Heat with Indoor Fun
When the desert sun is blazing, you’ll be grateful for some top-tier indoor fun. For a full day of excitement, head to the Adventuredome at Circus Circus. It’s a massive indoor amusement park tucked under a giant pink glass dome. You’ll find everything from roller coasters and laser tag to classic carnival games and bumper cars. It’s the perfect place for kids and teens to run wild while the adults enjoy the climate-controlled air. This isn’t just a handful of rides; it’s a complete theme park experience, making it a fantastic escape from the heat without sacrificing any of the fun.
Spark Curiosity at Museums and Exhibits
Give your family a dose of culture and hands-on learning at one of the city’s engaging museums. The Discovery Children’s Museum, located in Downtown Las Vegas, is a must-visit for families with younger kids and toddlers. With three floors of interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and culture, it’s designed to let kids lead the way. They can climb, build, create, and explore in a space made just for them. It’s a fantastic way to take a break from the sensory overload of the Strip and let your children’s imaginations run free in a fun, educational environment.
Meet Amazing Animals
You might be surprised to find a wealth of wildlife in the middle of the desert. For a peaceful and free escape, visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo hotel. You can wander through lush gardens and watch Chilean flamingos, turtles, and exotic birds. It’s a calm oasis that feels worlds away from the bustling Strip. For a more immersive experience, check out the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. Here, you can walk through an incredible underwater tunnel and see over 2,000 animals, including sharks, giant rays, and sea turtles. It’s a captivating adventure for all ages.
Get Your Adrenaline Fix
If your family has a need for speed, Las Vegas has you covered. For a classic thrill, ride the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York, which twists and dives right over the top of the resort, offering wild views of the Strip. For the ultimate daredevils, nothing beats the rides at the top of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower. As the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S., it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. But the real draw is the collection of heart-pounding thrill rides at the top that will have you dangling, spinning, and shooting over 1,000 feet in the air.
See the Best Free Shows on the Strip
Some of the most iconic attractions in Las Vegas won’t cost you a dime. The Fountains of Bellagio is a spectacular show of water, music, and light that the whole family can enjoy. With performances every 15 to 30 minutes, it’s easy to catch this mesmerizing display. After the show, step inside the Bellagio to see the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This stunning indoor garden features elaborate displays of flowers, plants, and trees that change with the seasons. It’s a beautiful and peaceful spot to take photos and appreciate a different kind of Vegas artistry.
Catch a Show the Whole Family Will Love
Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world, and that title extends to visitors of all ages. Beyond the dazzling lights and bustling casino floors, you’ll find a fantastic lineup of shows designed to wow the entire family. From mind-bending magic to epic theatrical productions, catching a show is the perfect way to cap off a day of sightseeing or escape the afternoon heat. It’s a chance to sit back, relax, and share a truly memorable experience together. With so many options, you can easily find a performance that fits your family’s style and schedule, creating a highlight for your Vegas trip that everyone will be talking about long after you head home.
These world-class productions offer a welcome change of pace from the sensory input of the Strip. It’s a dedicated time to be present with your kids and see their faces light up with wonder. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy spectacle to thrill your teens or a charming, funny show that will have your little ones giggling, you’ll find it here. Planning a show is a simple way to add structure to your itinerary and guarantee at least one activity where the only thing you have to do is enjoy the moment.
Matinees and Afternoon Entertainment
If you’re looking for a show that won’t interfere with bedtime, you have some amazing matinee options. Head to The LINQ to see Mat Franco Magic Reinvented Nightly. As a winner of America’s Got Talent, Mat Franco knows how to work a crowd, and his show is packed with incredible close-up magic and fun audience participation. It’s recommended for kids ages five and up, making it a perfect choice for families with younger children. This engaging magic show is a hit with families because it keeps everyone, from kids to grandparents, completely mesmerized and wondering, “How did he do that?”
Unforgettable Evening Shows
When the sun goes down, the big stages light up with some of the most spectacular productions you’ll ever see. The Blue Man Group at the Luxor is a classic for a reason. It’s a wild, energetic performance that blends music, comedy, and multimedia theatrics into one vibrant, sensory experience that captivates audiences of all ages (though it’s not recommended for children under three). For something more dramatic, check out KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand. This show is pure action, featuring incredible acrobatics, martial arts, and a colossal, rotating stage that is a marvel in itself. KÀ delivers an unforgettable experience and is especially great for tweens and teens who appreciate epic storytelling and jaw-dropping stunts.
Get in on the Action with Interactive Shows
For a show that makes you feel like part of the performance, look for one with an interactive twist. At the Excalibur, you can travel back in time at the Tournament of Kings. This dinner show is a blast for the whole family—you’ll feast on a medieval-style meal (no utensils needed!) while cheering on jousting knights on horseback. It’s a fun and immersive experience that gets everyone involved. For something a little more heartwarming, the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater at Planet Hollywood is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The show stars a delightful troupe of rescued animal performers, including talented dogs, cats, and birds, all ready to charm you with their amazing tricks.
Where to Stay with Your Family in Vegas
Choosing the right home base is one of the most important parts of planning your family trip to Las Vegas. You want a place that’s comfortable, fun, and fits your budget and travel style. Whether you’re looking for a resort with an epic pool complex, a hotel in the center of the excitement, or a quieter spot away from the crowds, Vegas has an option that will feel just right for your crew.
Think about what your family values most. Do you plan to spend afternoons splashing around? Or is being able to walk to shows and attractions your top priority? Maybe you prefer a more relaxed vibe where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Let’s look at some of the best family-friendly stays so you can find the perfect fit.
Hotels with the Coolest Pools
In the desert heat, a fantastic pool isn’t just a perk—it’s a necessity. Many Las Vegas hotels have turned their pools into full-blown water parks. The Golden Nugget, for example, features The Tank, a pool with a massive shark aquarium right in the middle and a waterslide that goes through it. At the MGM Grand, you can float down a lazy river or relax in one of their four refreshing pools. A great tip is that some hotels offer day passes, so you can experience their pools even if you’re staying somewhere else. It’s the perfect way to cool off and create some fun family memories.
Stay in the Heart of the Action
If you want to be surrounded by the vibrant energy of Las Vegas, staying on the Strip is the way to go. Hotels like the Luxor, Harrah’s, and Excalibur put you right in the middle of everything, often at a great value. The Excalibur is a family favorite with its fun castle theme, four pools, and a waterslide. Staying on the Strip means you’re just steps away from iconic sights, shows, and restaurants. It’s the perfect basecamp if you want to easily explore the city’s highlights and soak in the unique atmosphere that only Las Vegas can offer.
Quiet and Comfortable Off-Strip Stays
For families who prefer a more relaxed pace, an off-Strip hotel can be the perfect retreat. These resorts are generally quieter and often provide more spacious rooms or suites for your money. Places like the Westgate Las Vegas Resort or the Palms Resort Hotel offer fantastic amenities, including movie theaters and great dining, without the constant hustle of the main drag. Staying off-Strip also gives you a head start for adventures beyond the city lights. It’s much easier to hop in the car for a day trip to see the stunning landscapes of Red Rock Canyon or the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam.
Where to Eat with Kids in Las Vegas
Finding a place to eat that makes everyone in the family happy can feel like a quest, but Las Vegas is full of restaurants that welcome kids with open arms and exciting menus. From immersive themed experiences to casual spots that cater to the pickiest of eaters, you’ll find plenty of options to refuel between adventures. The key is knowing where to look. After a day exploring the city or the stunning natural landscapes on a custom tour, a great family meal is the perfect way to end the day. Here are some fantastic, family-approved spots to add to your itinerary.
Eat Inside a Story at Themed Restaurants
Turn mealtime into its own attraction by choosing a restaurant with a captivating theme. The Rainforest Cafe, located inside Planet Hollywood, is a classic choice for a reason. Kids love the jungle atmosphere, complete with animatronic animals, thunderstorms, and lush greenery. It’s an engaging experience that keeps them entertained while they eat. The menu is packed with kid-friendly American fare, so you can be sure they’ll find something they like. Dining here is less about just eating and more about creating a fun memory, making it a perfect stop for families looking for an exciting dining experience.
Find a Casual Spot for Picky Eaters
If you have a picky eater in your crew, you know the value of a straightforward, delicious meal. Carmine’s, located in the Forum Shops at Caesars, is a fantastic option. This New York transplant serves massive, family-style portions of classic Italian dishes meant for sharing. It’s a lively, welcoming environment where passing plates around the table is part of the fun. For a more casual breakfast or lunch, check out Hash House a Go Go at The LINQ. It’s famous for its twisted farm food and gigantic portions that are sure to impress kids and adults alike. The fun presentation and familiar flavors make it a reliable hit.
Delicious Meals That Won’t Break the Bank
Dining in Las Vegas doesn’t have to drain your wallet. You can find plenty of affordable and tasty options that are perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal. Shake Shack is a go-to for many families, offering high-quality burgers, fries, and shakes in a relaxed, counter-service setting. It’s a simple choice that consistently delivers on flavor without the fuss or expense of a sit-down restaurant. You can generally expect a meal at places like this to cost around $15 to $25 per person, making it one of the more budget-friendly and great options for families on the go.
Conquer the Best Family-Friendly Buffets
A trip to Vegas feels incomplete without experiencing at least one incredible buffet. For families, buffets are a lifesaver, offering endless variety that can please even the most selective eaters. The Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is legendary, boasting the largest spread in the city with over 250 items prepared in nine open kitchens. While it’s one of the pricier buffets, the sheer volume and quality of choices make it a worthwhile splurge for a special family meal. From mini pancakes and pizza to fresh seafood and gourmet desserts, there’s truly something for everyone to get excited about.
Have Fun on a Budget
A family trip to Las Vegas doesn’t have to drain your wallet. While the city is known for its luxury, it’s also packed with incredible experiences that are either completely free or surprisingly affordable. With a little bit of planning, you can fill your itinerary with memorable activities that keep both your kids and your budget happy. From dazzling free shows on the Strip to exploring the great outdoors, you can create a rich, fun-filled vacation without the high price tag.
See the Sights for Free
One of the best things about Las Vegas is that so much of its magic is on public display. You can spend a whole day just wandering the Strip and taking in the incredible sights. Catch the famous Bellagio Fountains as they perform a spectacular water ballet set to music. Step inside the lobbies of hotels like the Bellagio, Aria, and Caesars Palace to see their stunning, often-changing art displays and seasonal decorations. These attractions are perfect for filling the gaps in your schedule or for a low-key evening of sightseeing. To see it all without the stress of planning a route, you can always join The Famous Las Vegas Tour for a curated look at the city’s most iconic spots.
Low-Cost Entertainment and Activities
Beyond the freebies, Las Vegas offers plenty of entertainment that delivers a big impact for a small price. For breathtaking views of the city, head to the High Roller at The LINQ, the largest observation wheel in North America. It’s a fantastic experience for all ages, and they even offer a free STEM guide for kids to make it educational. While big-name shows can be pricey, you can often find good rates on family-friendly productions if you book in advance through sites like Vegas.com. An even better way to get a comprehensive look at the city is with an all-in-one experience like the Ultimate Las Vegas Tour, which combines sightseeing with unique local knowledge.
Explore Local Parks and Natural Areas
For a refreshing change of scenery, escape the city for an afternoon in nature. Just a short drive from the Strip, you’ll find incredible landscapes that feel a world away. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, with its 13-mile scenic drive and numerous hiking trails, costs just a small fee per car. A bit farther out, the stunning red Aztec sandstone of Valley of Fire State Park offers 40,000 acres of beautiful scenery and kid-friendly trails. If you want to leave the driving and navigating to someone else, consider one of the guided Valley of Fire tours for a stress-free adventure. It’s an affordable way to give your family an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Explore the Natural Wonders Outside Las Vegas
When you need a break from the neon glow, you’ll find that Las Vegas is the perfect home base for exploring some of the most incredible landscapes in the American Southwest. Trading the bustling Strip for wide-open spaces is a fantastic way to add a different kind of adventure to your family vacation. From the fiery red rocks of nearby canyons to the staggering scale of the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam, there’s so much to see just a short drive from the city. Getting out into nature can recharge everyone’s batteries, give the kids room to run, and create some truly unforgettable family memories.
These natural wonders offer a stunning contrast to the city’s man-made marvels. The quiet trails, vast horizons, and unique geological formations provide a perfect backdrop for family photos and a chance to connect with each other away from the crowds. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, planning an excursion outside the city is one of the best ways to experience the full scope of what the Las Vegas area has to offer. It’s an opportunity to show your kids a different side of Nevada, one filled with history, nature, and breathtaking beauty.
Discover Breathtaking Parks and Canyons
Just beyond the city limits lie some seriously stunning natural wonders. A quick 15-mile drive will take you to Red Rock Canyon, where a 13-mile scenic loop offers breathtaking views and plenty of spots for the kids to hike and explore. A bit further out, you’ll find the otherworldly landscape of Valley of Fire State Park. Its vibrant red sandstone formations are a must-see, with lots of family-friendly hiking trails that are perfect for all ages. And for a dose of history and incredible engineering, the Hoover Dam is only about 40 minutes away. Our private Hoover Dam tours let you experience this iconic landmark up close without waiting in long lines.
Plan the Perfect Day Trip
If you have a full day to spare, a trip to the Grand Canyon is an absolute must. While it feels a world away, it’s a totally manageable day trip from Las Vegas. Many families head to Grand Canyon West, which is home to the famous Skywalk—a glass bridge that lets you walk right out over the canyon for a thrilling perspective. Planning a trip like this can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be. Opting for one of our private Grand Canyon tours means we handle all the details, from transportation to making sure you see the best viewpoints, so you can just relax and soak in the magnificent scenery with your family.
Take a Guided Tour for an Insider’s View
While you can certainly drive to these places yourself, a guided tour takes the experience to a whole new level. You can forget about maps and driving directions and just focus on the fun. An expert guide can share fascinating stories and facts about the history, geology, and wildlife you won’t find in a guidebook. It’s a fantastic way to make your adventure both educational and completely stress-free. We specialize in creating custom tours that are tailored to your family’s interests, ensuring you have a private and personal adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Plan Your Las Vegas Family Vacation
A little planning goes a long way in making your family trip to Las Vegas smooth, fun, and memorable. Thinking through the logistics beforehand means you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the incredible experiences the city has to offer. From figuring out the best way to get from one attraction to the next with kids in tow to knowing the right time of year to visit for pleasant weather, these simple tips will help you prepare for an amazing family adventure. With these details sorted, you’ll be ready to focus on what really matters: creating lasting memories together.
How to Get Around with Kids
While the Strip looks walkable, distances between hotels are longer than they appear, which can be tough on little legs. For a fun alternative, the Las Vegas Monorail is a hit with kids and a practical way to travel the Strip. You can also find free trams connecting major resorts like Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and Excalibur. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to see the sights without navigating public transport, a private, custom tour lets your family relax while someone else handles the driving. This is especially helpful for day trips to stunning nearby locations like the Hoover Dam or Valley of Fire.
Simple Tips for a Safe Trip
Las Vegas is generally a safe destination for families, but it’s wise to prepare your kids for the sensory experience of the Strip—it’s bright, loud, and crowded. It’s also good to know the rules before you go. Children are allowed to walk through casino floors, but they can’t stop or hang around in any of the gaming areas, and they must be accompanied by an adult. To give your family a break from the hustle, consider a guided excursion. A private Valley of Fire tour provides a safe and engaging way for kids to explore nature’s wonders in a more controlled and relaxed environment.
Smart Ways to Save Money
A family vacation to Las Vegas doesn’t have to break the bank. You can often find great deals on hotels by checking third-party booking sites, which sometimes offer lower rates than booking directly. Planning your itinerary around the many free attractions on the Strip is another fantastic way to manage your budget. When planning bigger excursions, bundling your experience can also lead to savings. For example, booking a private tour to the Hoover Dam covers your transportation and expert guide in one package, saving you the hassle and cost of arranging everything separately.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Timing your visit can make a huge difference, especially with kids. The intense heat of summer can make outdoor activities challenging. For the most pleasant weather, plan your trip for the spring months of March, April, and May, or in the early fall around September and October. This is the perfect time to enjoy hotel pools and explore the incredible natural landscapes just outside the city. A trip to see the beautiful sandstone formations on a Red Rock Canyon tour is especially breathtaking during these milder seasons. Keep in mind that weekends and school holidays are the busiest and most expensive times to visit.
Create Lasting Family Memories
A family trip to Las Vegas is about more than just seeing the sights—it’s about the shared moments that you’ll talk about for years. Beyond the scheduled shows and attractions, you can find special experiences that feel uniquely yours. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a birthday, or just the fact that you’re all together, planning a few standout activities will make your vacation truly unforgettable. From finding the perfect photo backdrop to exploring an otherworldly art installation, these are the moments that turn a great trip into a cherished memory. It’s your chance to create your family’s Vegas story, one amazing experience at a time.
Find the Best Photo Spots
You’ll want photos that capture the spirit of your family’s adventure, and Las Vegas has some incredible backdrops. For a stunning view of the Strip and the surrounding desert, take a ride on the High Roller, a giant observation wheel that offers a bird’s-eye perspective. The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is another beautiful spot, offering free, ever-changing floral displays that make for vibrant pictures. And of course, you can’t leave without getting that classic family photo at the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign. It’s a quintessential shot that perfectly sums up your trip.
What to Do for Holidays and Special Events
If your visit falls during a holiday, you’re in for a treat. Las Vegas loves to celebrate, and many places host special events perfect for families. The Springs Preserve is a fantastic option, with museums, gardens, and walking trails that often feature seasonal activities and decorations. Another great spot is the Downtown Container Park, an open-air shopping center built from shipping containers. It has a fun, quirky vibe and frequently hosts family-friendly events, live music, and holiday festivities that give you a taste of the local community spirit.
Plan a One-of-a-Kind Experience
To make your trip truly stand out, add an experience you can’t find anywhere else. Area 15 is an entertainment complex filled with immersive and interactive art that will fascinate kids and adults alike. For something totally futuristic, check out The Sphere Experience, where you can interact with AI robots before watching a film inside a massive dome that makes you feel like you’re part of the action. For a more personal adventure, you can design a custom tour that combines your family’s interests, from city sights to the stunning landscapes of nearby Red Rock Canyon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it difficult to avoid the adult-focused parts of Vegas with kids? Not at all. You might be surprised by how easy it is to have a full family vacation here without feeling like you’re in the middle of a casino. The major resorts are designed so you can easily get to restaurants, theaters, and pools without lingering on the gaming floor. With so many dedicated family attractions, shows, and outdoor adventures available, your itinerary will be too packed with fun to even notice the adult-centric areas.
What’s the best age to bring kids to Las Vegas? While you can find activities for toddlers, the city really comes alive for kids who are elementary school age and older. They have the stamina for a bit of walking and can fully appreciate the spectacle of a big show like KÀ or the thrill of the rides at the Adventuredome. That said, there are still great options for little ones, like the Discovery Children’s Museum or the Shark Reef Aquarium, so you can certainly make it work with any age group.
Is it safe to walk the Strip with my family, especially at night? The main stretches of the Strip are very well-lit, crowded, and generally feel safe for families. It’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings, just as you would in any major city. The biggest challenge is often the sheer distance between resorts, which can be tiring for little legs. For longer treks, especially later in the evening, using the Monorail, a free tram, or a rideshare service is a great way to get around comfortably and efficiently.
We want to see places like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam but don’t want the hassle of driving. What’s the best way to do that? This is the perfect situation for a guided tour. It takes all the stress out of the equation—no need to rent a car, follow maps, or worry about parking. A private tour is an especially great option for families because it allows you to go at your own pace. You can relax and enjoy the scenery together while an expert guide handles all the logistics and shares interesting stories you wouldn’t get on your own.
With so many options, how do we choose between all the shows and attractions? The best approach is to let your family’s interests guide you. Sit down with your kids and look at the options together to see what gets them excited. A good strategy is to plan one main event for each day, whether it’s a big show, a trip to the Adventuredome, or an afternoon at a cool hotel pool. You can then fill in the rest of your time with more flexible activities, like watching the free Bellagio Fountains or exploring a themed hotel.
