Things to Do in Las Vegas With Kids: Family-Friendly Fun

Key Highlights

Here are the best things to do on your Las Vegas family trip:

• Explore beyond the Vegas Strip with incredible day trips to places like the Grand Canyon or Red Rock Canyon.
• Discover a variety of free things to do, from the dazzling Bellagio Fountains to the iconic Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
• Engage your children with amazing interactive exhibits at unique museums and attractions.
• Enjoy world-class, family-friendly shows that offer everything from circus acts to magic.
• Visit massive chocolate-themed stores and unique playgrounds for memorable fun.
• Cool off in some of the most impressive hotel pools you will ever see.

Exploring Las Vegas With Kids: An Overview

Las Vegas might not be the first place you think of for a family vacation, but it is a great destination to explore with kids. Beyond the famous casinos, you’ll find a city packed with attractions and entertainment for all ages. From the bustling Vegas Strip to the vibrant arts scene in Downtown Las Vegas, there are countless adventures waiting for you.

Many of the best things to do are surprisingly family-oriented, offering a fun and easy getaway. With so much to see and do, your trip can be as action-packed or as relaxed as you wish, proving that Las Vegas is more than just an adult playground.

What Makes Las Vegas a Family-Friendly Destination?

What are the best family-friendly attractions in Las Vegas for kids? The city has transformed over the years, now offering a diverse range of activities perfect for a family trip. While the Vegas Strip is known for its nightlife, it is also home to incredible shows, themed restaurants, and attractions designed to wow visitors of all ages. You can find everything from stunning botanical gardens to thrilling roller coasters.

Choosing the right Las Vegas hotel is a great way to ensure a family-friendly experience. Many resorts feature incredible pools with lazy rivers and wave pools, arcades, and even on-site aquariums. This focus on comprehensive entertainment means you can have a full vacation without ever leaving your hotel complex if you choose.

Ultimately, Las Vegas offers a unique blend of spectacle and adventure that captivates children. The sheer scale of the architecture, the dazzling lights, and the variety of experiences provide endless opportunities for creating lasting family memories. It’s a city where a family can watch a volcano erupt, see a medieval tournament, and explore a chocolate factory all in one day.

Ideal Seasons for Visiting With Children

Planning your family vacation around the seasons is a good idea to avoid the intense desert heat. While summer visits are popular, the scorching temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging. If you visit during hot months like August, plan to spend your days enjoying indoor attractions and hotel pools.

Spring and fall are often considered the best times to visit Las Vegas. Months like March offer pleasant weather, perfect for exploring outdoor areas without overheating. This makes it easier to enjoy everything from a walk down the Strip to a hike in a nearby park. These shoulder seasons also tend to be slightly less crowded than the peak summer months.

Another tip for your family is to consider trips during school breaks. A quick getaway over spring break or even in the winter can be a wonderful experience. During the holiday season, the city is adorned with festive decorations, and many attractions offer special themed displays, adding an extra layer of magic to your visit.

How to Get Around Las Vegas as a Family

Getting around Las Vegas with your family is easier than you might think, with several convenient options available. The Las Vegas Strip is very walkable, but its 4.2-mile length can be deceptive. A destination that looks like a short walk can be much farther than it appears, so planning your transportation is key for a family trip.

For longer distances along the Strip, the Las Vegas Monorail is an inexpensive and efficient choice. It connects major hotels and attractions, helping you avoid traffic. Additionally, several hotels offer free trams that connect sister properties. These can be a fun ride for kids and a great way to get around.

• Free Tram 1: Connects Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay.
• Free Tram 2: Connects Bellagio, CityCenter/The Shops at Crystals, and Park MGM.
• Walking: The Strip is pedestrian-friendly, but wear comfortable shoes!

While the Las Vegas Strip is generally safe and family-friendly, especially during the day and early evening, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Many hotels also offer free parking, which is a great perk if you decide to rent a car for day trips.

Unique Indoor Activities for Kids in Las Vegas

When you need a break from the desert sun, Las Vegas offers a fantastic array of indoor activities. These attractions are a fun way to keep children entertained for hours. You can find everything from a massive indoor amusement park to sprawling worlds dedicated entirely to chocolate, providing a great place for family fun.

Many of these spots feature hands-on interactive exhibits that allow kids to play and learn simultaneously. Whether you’re exploring a quirky museum or designing your own candy bar, these indoor adventures are some of the best things to do with your family. We will explore a few top choices below.

Discovery Children’s Museum Highlights

Museums designed for children are one of the best things to include in your family trip itinerary. These spaces are built around the idea of learning through play, offering countless interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity in kids of all ages. What are fun indoor things to do with children in Las Vegas? A children’s museum is a top answer.

In a place like a discovery children’s museum, you can expect to find zones dedicated to science, art, and imaginative play. For example, your kids might be able to climb through multi-story structures, solve puzzles, or engage in hands-on experiments. These experiences are not only fun but also educational, making them a perfect addition to your vacation.

Spending an afternoon at an attraction with interactive exhibits allows kids to burn off energy in a stimulating environment. It’s a fantastic alternative to the hustle of the Strip and provides a space where children are encouraged to touch, explore, and create. It’s an ideal activity for a well-rounded Las Vegas family experience.

Pinball Hall of Fame Fun for All Ages

Are there any unique experiences in Las Vegas that kids will enjoy? Absolutely, and the Pinball Hall of Fame is one of them. This massive museum is a tribute to the classic arcade game and is a fun way to spend an afternoon with family members of all ages. Admission is one of the best free things in town, allowing you to wander through rows of vibrant, flashing machines.

The collection features hundreds of pinball machines, with some dating back to the 1950s. While it’s free to enter and look around, all the games are playable for just a few quarters. It’s a nostalgic trip for parents and a new and exciting experience for kids. You can easily spend a couple of hours here for just a few dollars.

The Pinball Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization, with proceeds going to charity, so you can feel good about where your money is going. It’s a low-key, budget-friendly attraction that offers a welcome change of pace from the typical Las Vegas spectacle.

Exploring M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World

For families with a sweet tooth, a visit to M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World is a must. M&M’s World is a four-story destination on Las Vegas Boulevard celebrating the colorful candy. Kids will love the giant wall of M&M’s, featuring tubes filled with every color imaginable. You can also shop for unique merchandise and pose for pictures with the M&M’s characters.

Just a short walk away at the New York-New York Hotel, you’ll find Hershey’s Chocolate World. This 13,000-square-foot store is a chocolate lover’s paradise, showcasing hundreds of Hershey’s products. The centerpiece is an incredible sculpture of the Statue of Liberty made entirely of chocolate! You can even customize your own candy bars.

Both of these chocolate worlds offer more than just shopping. They are immersive experiences that are free to enter and explore.

• M&M’s World: Four floors of candy, merchandise, and photo opportunities.
• Hershey’s Chocolate World: Features a chocolate Statue of Liberty and candy customization.
• Sweet Treats: Both locations offer special baked goods, milkshakes, and ice cream.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Experiences Near Las Vegas

When you think of Las Vegas, you might picture neon lights, but the surrounding area is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Planning a few outdoor adventures is a perfect way to balance your family trip. From stunning canyons to lush preserves, there are plenty of options to get your family out into nature.

Many of these destinations are just a short drive from the city, making for perfect day trips. You can trade the bustle of the Strip for the tranquility of places like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area or Springs Preserve. You can even plan a longer excursion to the spectacular Grand Canyon.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just a few miles from the Vegas Strip, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers breathtaking desert landscapes that feel a world away. What are some outdoor attractions in Las Vegas suitable for families with kids? This is one of the top answers. The area’s 13-mile scenic loop provides easy access to numerous viewpoints and trailheads, perfect for a family trip.

For families who enjoy hiking, Red Rock offers trails for all skill levels. The Calico Tanks trail is a moderate 2.5-mile hike with fun rock scrambling that older kids will love. The trail leads to a watering hole and an amazing view of Las Vegas in the distance. Exploring these unique rock formations is one of the best nature experiences you can have near the city.

Remember to plan ahead, as timed entry reservations are required to drive the scenic loop during the peak season (October 1 to May 31). The scenic drive is one-way, so it’s a good idea to review the map and decide on your stops before you enter the park.

Springs Preserve and Wildlife Habitat

If you’re looking for an educational and entertaining outdoor attraction, Springs Preserve is a fantastic choice. Located just a few minutes from the Strip, this 180-acre cultural institution offers botanical gardens, museum exhibits, and a wildlife habitat. It’s an excellent way to escape the desert heat for a few hours while learning about the Mojave Desert environment.

There’s something for everyone in the family at Springs Preserve. Kids will love the playground and the Old West-style train ride that circles the property. You can also explore walking trails and see native animals, including desert tortoises, in a safe and engaging setting. It’s an inexpensive and easy outing for your family trip.

The preserve beautifully combines nature with history, telling the story of Las Vegas’s origins. With its mix of indoor exhibits and outdoor spaces, it offers a well-rounded experience. Online ticket reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure easy access to this wonderful attraction.

Day Trips to Seven Magic Mountains and Valley of Fire State Park

Taking day trips from Las Vegas is a good idea to see more of Nevada’s stunning landscape. About 10 miles south of the city, you’ll find Seven Magic Mountains. This public art installation features seven towers of brightly colored, stacked boulders that stand over 30 feet tall. It’s a surreal and beautiful sight in the middle of the desert, offering a fantastic photo opportunity for your family vacation.

An hour northeast of Vegas lies Valley of Fire State Park, famous for its vibrant red and pink rock formations. It’s an adventurer’s paradise with numerous trails suitable for families. Hikes like the White Domes Loop and Mouse’s Tank are perfect for kids, with the latter featuring interesting petroglyphs and fun rock scrambling opportunities.

These day trips offer a dramatic contrast to the city and are easily accessible by car.

• Seven Magic Mountains: A unique art installation perfect for photos; free admission and parking.
• Valley of Fire State Park: Features stunning red rocks and family-friendly hikes.
• Plan Ahead: Both locations can get very hot, so bring plenty of water and visit earlier in the day.

Free and Budget-Friendly Activities for Families

A family vacation to Las Vegas doesn’t have to break the bank. The city is filled with some of the best free things to do, allowing you to have a blast without spending a dime. From iconic landmarks to dazzling light shows, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to fill your itinerary.

Whether you’re exploring the quirky side of Downtown Las Vegas at the Fremont Street Experience or taking a classic photo at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, you’ll find that many of the city’s most memorable attractions are completely free. Let’s look at a few top choices for free family fun.

Visiting the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

Can you recommend some free activities for kids in Las Vegas? A stop at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is an absolute must. This iconic landmark at the south end of Las Vegas Boulevard is the ultimate photo opportunity and one of the most popular free things to do in the city. Capturing a family picture here is a classic way to start or end your trip.

Finding the sign is easy, and there is a dedicated free parking lot available. However, because it’s so popular, the line for a photo can get quite long, especially during peak hours. To avoid a long wait with impatient kids, your best bet is to visit early in the morning.

Taking a picture in front of this sign is one of those favorite things that truly says “we were in Vegas.” It’s a simple, quick, and completely free activity that creates a timeless souvenir of your family’s adventure in the entertainment capital of the world.

Strolling Fremont Street Experience

For a uniquely Vegas experience, head to the Fremont Street Experience in Downtown Las Vegas. This pedestrian mall is famous for its lively atmosphere, with street performers, live music, and an incredible overhead light show. While the area can get a bit wild late at night, visiting in the early evening is a fun experience for families.

The main attraction is the Viva Vision light show, which takes place on the largest LED canopy screen in the world. Every hour from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., the screen comes alive with dazzling visuals synchronized to music. The six-minute show is completely free and is sure to captivate your kids.

Exploring Fremont Street gives you a taste of old-school Vegas with a modern, artsy twist.

• Viva Vision Light Show: An amazing free show on a massive overhead screen.
• Street Performers: See a variety of entertainers along the pedestrian mall.
• Go Early: The atmosphere is more family-friendly in the early evening.
• Thrill Rides: For older kids, the SlotZilla zip line offers a thrilling ride above the crowds.

Downtown Container Park and Treehouse Playground

Just a few blocks from the Fremont Street Experience, the Downtown Container Park is a fantastic place to escape the hustle and let your kids play. This unique open-air shopping center is built entirely from shipping containers and offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s one of the best free things to do on a family trip.

At the heart of the park is the Treehouse Playground, a super fun area where kids can climb, slide, and play. It features a 33-foot slide and interactive games, providing a great way for children to burn off some energy. It’s a wonderful spot for families to relax while the kids have a blast.

Don’t miss the giant praying mantis sculpture at the entrance that shoots flames from its antennae after sundown! The park also hosts free events and live music. Keep in mind that kids are welcome until 9 p.m., after which the park becomes a 21+ venue.

Entertaining Shows and Events Suitable for Kids

No family trip to Las Vegas is complete without taking in a spectacular show. The city is famous for its world-class entertainment, and there are plenty of family-friendly performances to choose from. From mind-bending magic shows to breathtaking circus acts, seeing a show is a fun way to create lasting memories.

You can find everything from grand productions on the Las Vegas Strip to more intimate dinner show experiences. These events are designed to entertain audiences of all ages, ensuring that both you and your children will be mesmerized. Below are some great options for family entertainment in Las Vegas.

Cirque du Soleil’s Family-Friendly Performances

Las Vegas is synonymous with spectacular productions, and many of a certain style, like Cirque du Soleil, offer family-friendly performances that are among the best things to see in the city. These shows combine stunning acrobatics, imaginative costumes, and captivating music to create a theatrical experience that will leave your entire family in awe. What shows in Las Vegas are appropriate and entertaining for kids? High-production acrobatic shows are often a great choice.

These shows are typically hosted in a dedicated theater within a major Las Vegas hotel on the Vegas Strip, making them easy to access. The stories are told visually, through movement and music, so they transcend language barriers and are easy for younger children to follow and enjoy. The combination of artistry and athleticism is truly mesmerizing.

While tickets can be an investment, the unforgettable experience is often worth it. For a more budget-friendly taste of this type of entertainment, you can also catch free circus acts at the Circus Circus Hotel, which feature skilled performers in a more casual, carnival-like setting.

Tournament of Kings Dinner Show at Excalibur

A dinner show is a fun way to combine a meal and entertainment into one exciting event for your family trip. The concept is simple: you enjoy a themed dinner while watching a live performance unfold around you. In Las Vegas, shows like the Tournament of Kings at the Excalibur hotel offer a unique and immersive experience.

Imagine cheering for knights on horseback as they joust and engage in sword fights, all while you feast on a hearty meal. This type of dinner show is particularly engaging for kids, as they are often encouraged to cheer for their section’s knight and become part of the action. It’s an interactive experience that goes beyond simply watching a performance.

This kind of entertainment provides a lively and engaging evening for the whole family. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for an all-in-one activity that takes care of both dinner and your evening’s entertainment, making it a convenient and memorable part of your Las Vegas vacation.

Circus Acts and Magic Shows for Children

Las Vegas has a long history of captivating audiences with classic circus acts and mind-bending magic shows, many of which are perfect for children. The Circus Circus Hotel is home to the world’s largest permanent circus, offering free 10-minute performances daily. Kids will love watching talented jugglers, acrobats, and trapeze artists perform high above the casino floor.

After enjoying the circus acts, you can head downstairs to the Fun Dungeon arcade. While it’s a bit dated, it offers over 200 arcade and carnival games that provide simple, classic fun for kids. It’s one of the best things for families looking for casual entertainment without the commitment of a full-length show.

Many hotels on the Strip host magic shows designed to appeal to families. These performances are filled with wonder and humor, keeping both kids and adults engaged.

• Free Circus Acts: See daily performances at the Carnival Midway in the Circus Circus Hotel.
• Magic Shows: Look for afternoon matinees, which are often geared toward a younger audience.
• Variety and Wonder: These shows provide classic entertainment that never fails to impress children.

Top Museums for Kids in Las Vegas

Beyond the glitz and glamor, Las Vegas is home to a surprising number of museums that are perfect for a family trip. These institutions offer a fantastic educational alternative to the city’s other attractions, with many featuring hands-on interactive exhibits designed specifically for younger visitors.

From exploring the history of the iconic neon lights to engaging with art and science, the museums in Las Vegas cover a wide range of interests. Visiting one is one of the best things you can do to add a bit of learning and culture to your vacation. Let’s look at a few notable options.

Nevada State Museum Exploration

Can you list any must-visit museums in Las Vegas for kids? A great place to start is often a museum that focuses on the local history and environment, like a Nevada state museum. These types of institutions provide valuable context about the region you’re visiting, covering everything from its natural history to its cultural development.

Inside such a museum, you would likely find exhibits on the unique desert landscape, the creatures that inhabit it, and the history of the people who have called this area home. Many modern museums incorporate interactive exhibits to make learning more engaging for kids. This could include displays that allow them to touch artifacts, play educational games, or watch informative videos.

Exploring a state museum offers a quiet and enriching break from the high energy of Las Vegas. It’s an opportunity for your family to learn something new together and gain a deeper appreciation for the state beyond the Strip. It’s a wonderful way to add an educational component to your trip.

Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. Interactive Exhibit

For kids who love superheroes, an immersive attraction like the Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. is a dream come true. This type of interactive exhibit is a fun way for fans to step into the world of their favorite characters. It blends a museum-style display of props and costumes with engaging, hands-on activities that make you feel like part of the team.

Attractions like this one are some of kids’ favorite things because they are highly themed and interactive. You can explore character files, participate in training missions, and see actual costumes and props from the movies. For a different but equally surreal experience, Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart at Area 15 offers a psychedelic and interactive art installation that will blow your mind.

These experiences are designed to be fully immersive, making them more than just a museum visit. They are adventures that allow kids to actively participate rather than just observe. If you’re looking for a modern, exciting, and memorable activity, this kind of interactive exhibit is a perfect choice.

Dining Out With Kids: Best Family Restaurants in Las Vegas

Dining out in Las Vegas with kids is an adventure in itself. The city offers a vast array of the best family restaurants, from whimsical themed eateries to casual spots with reliable kid-friendly menus. Finding a great place to eat is a great way to refuel after a busy day of exploring.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a fun dinner experience, or a delicious ice cream treat, Las Vegas has you covered. You don’t have to stick to bland food courts; many of the city’s top dining destinations are surprisingly welcoming to families. Let’s explore some of the best options for eating out with your children.

Themed Eateries for Children

Are there good dining options for families with kids in Las Vegas? Yes, and the themed eateries are a fun way to make mealtime an event. These restaurants offer an immersive atmosphere that can transport you to another place, from the streets of Italy to a world made of chocolate. For example, Hershey’s Chocolate World in the New York-New York hotel features a giant sculpture of the Statue of Liberty made of chocolate, creating a memorable backdrop.

Exploring Eataly at Park MGM is another great option, where you can wander through a 40,000-square-foot Italian marketplace. Kids will love watching fresh pasta being made and then enjoying a delicious pizza or gelato. It’s an experience that’s both delicious and educational.

These themed restaurants turn dining into entertainment, keeping kids engaged and happy. They offer more than just food; they provide a feast for the senses.

Themed Eatery	Location	Highlights for Kids
Eataly Las Vegas	Park MGM	Watching fresh pasta being made, gelato and pizza stations.
Hershey’s Chocolate World	New York-New York	Chocolate Statue of Liberty, customizable candy bars.
M&M’s World	Near MGM Grand	Four floors of candy, colorful character photo ops.
Coca-Cola Store	Near MGM Grand	“Around the World” soda tasting tray with 16 flavors.

Casual Restaurants With Kid-Friendly Menus

Sometimes on a family trip, you just need a good, straightforward meal without all the fuss. Las Vegas is full of casual restaurants that offer delicious food and welcoming kid-friendly menus. These spots are perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner where you know everyone will find something they like.

For example, if you’re staying near the downtown area, Craft Kitchen in the Fremont Food Hall is a highly recommended spot for a yummy breakfast. Similarly, the Downtown Container Park has a variety of restaurants and food stalls that are perfect for a casual family meal, allowing everyone to choose what they want in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Finding these casual restaurants is one of the best things for families who want quality food in a low-stress environment. Many of the larger hotels also have excellent cafes or buffet options that cater to all tastes, making it easy to find a satisfying meal for even the pickiest eaters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Las Vegas safe and suitable for children?

Yes, Las Vegas can be very safe and suitable for a family vacation. By focusing on family-friendly attractions, choosing the right Las Vegas hotel, and avoiding the more adult-oriented areas of the Vegas Strip and Downtown Las Vegas at night, you can have a wonderful and secure trip with your children.

What are the best free attractions for kids in Las Vegas?

Some of the best free things for kids include watching the Bellagio Fountains, exploring the Bellagio Conservatory, and visiting the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat. Other great free attractions are taking a photo at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign and seeing the Viva Vision light show at the Fremont Street Experience.

Are there any unique experiences kids shouldn’t miss in Las Vegas?

Kids shouldn’t miss the unique experiences Las Vegas offers, like sliding through a shark tank at the Golden Nugget’s Tank pool or exploring the surreal interactive exhibits at Area 15. Other must-dos include the Adventuredome indoor amusement park, the beautiful Bellagio Conservatory, and the train ride at Springs Preserve.

What tips can help families get the most out of their Vegas trip?

To get the most out of your family trip, plan ahead for timed-entry tickets and go early to popular spots to avoid lines. It’s a good idea to mix paid attractions with plenty of free things. Use the free trams for easy access between hotels, and schedule downtime at your hotel pool.