Is Las Vegas really suited to families? Gambling, adult-themed entertainment, 24-hour partying…it’s easy to think of the Entertainment Capital of the World as an adult-only destination, but did you know that more families than ever before are discovering the magic and family-friendly side of Vegas?
With a growing number of family attractions, family-friendly and focused hotels as well as plenty of opportunities to make some pretty fantastic memories, Vegas is certainly undergoing a bit of an image change! If you’re thinking about taking your family to Las Vegas for your annual vacation, then you’re in for a treat. In this post, I’ll highlight how you can make Las Vegas fun for the whole family and some tips to ensure everyone has a good time.
Choose a Family-Friendly Vegas Hotel
Choosing the right place to stay when you’re vacationing with your family is essential, no matter where you’re going! But, as a family who is considering Vegas, it’s doubly important to choose the right hotel or resort so everyone can make the most of their trip and you can enjoy a vacation that is (mostly) stress-free. Many Vegas hotels have stepped up to cater to families, offering kid-friendly amenities, themed décor, and easy access to attractions suitable for all ages. Here are some family favorites.
The Mirage
With an on-site secret garden and dolphin habitat (yes, really), The Mirage is proving to be a family favorite. Kids can get close to bottlenose dolphins and even big cats like tigers and leopards, and white tigers. It’s all presented with education in mind, too, so everyone can learn about these animals and their habitats.
Excalibur Hotel and Casino
A brilliant option for younger children and even tweens, this medieval and castle-themed hotel with its colorful towers and live-action tournament dinner shows is sure to be a quick family favorite. It also offers a large arcade and fun pool area to help kids burn off some energy.
Mandalay Bay Resort is ideal for families who love water play. Its beach-style pool area comes complete with real sand and a wave pool, while the Shark Reef Aquarium introduces kids to over 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. It’s a great way to combine fun with learning.
When choosing a hotel in Vegas, you’re spoilt for choice, but you don’t have to go for the big resorts. Many families opt for more laid-back options off the main Strip that provide quieter and more relaxed stays. Some hotels even offer suite-style accommodation with kitchenettes for simple cooking and meal prep, ideal if you have hungry toddlers or you want to keep your food budget under control.
Check out Kid-Friendly Attractions on the Strip
Entertainment in Vegas is so much more than casinos and nightclubs. It’s absolutely packed full of attractions for little kids and big kids alike, which means there’s so much for you to enjoy together and experience as a family.
First stop, M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World are both interactive shopping experiences. Kids can make their own M&M’s, pose with characters, and browse floor after floor of chocolatey goodness. It’s a visual feast and a sweet treat!
For more fun, head to the Adventuredome at Circus Circus. This huge indoor amusement park has rollercoasters, bumper cars, arcade games, and mini golf. Perfect place to let the kids blow off some steam when it’s too hot to be outside! Thrill-seeking families will love the Big Apple Coaster at the New York-New York Hotel, which zooms through the replica skyline and has great views for older kids and teens.
For something a bit more low-key, the Bellagio Fountains are a must-see. This amazing water and music show runs every 15-30 minutes and is free. While you’re there, step inside the Bellagio Conservatory, where elaborate seasonal displays of flowers and art will delight visitors of all ages. Lastly, ride the High Roller at The LINQ, the second-tallest observation wheel in the world. Kids will love watching the Strip light up below them, especially at sunset or after dark.
Planning for Downtime, But Still Prioritizing Fun
Vegas is hot, full of crowds, noise, and constant stimulation; even the adults can quickly feel overwhelmed and need to take a break! As a family vacationing with children, it’s important to schedule in breaks and also take them as and when. Downtime is easy to achieve in Las Vegas; all you have to do is not feel pressured to cram every single hour of the day with activities, as tempting as this may be!
You can spend an afternoon by the pool, letting your little ones cool off and have fun in the water while you relax. Again, consider choosing a hotel where family pools, splash pads, and shaded lounge areas are available.
Make sure you balance all the excitement with plenty of rest and opportunities to recharge. Even if you choose a quieter air-conditioned activity, such as a visit to the SEA LIFE Aquarium instead of the Adventure Dome, you can reduce the risk of little ones becoming overwhelmed, overstimulated, and likely to have a meltdown.
Remember, there’s nothing wrong with spending some time enjoying a nap in an air-conditioned hotel room, while everyone takes a break from the sun! Once everyone is recharged, you’ll be ready to hit the Strip again.
Final Thoughts…
With the right planning and the right mindset, you and your family can enjoy an incredible trip to Las Vegas without setting foot in a casino or feeling pressured to do so. Vegas can easily become your family’s trusted and favorite vacation destination, and somewhere you’ll want to return to year after year. Just remember to do plenty of research to find the right accommodation and the right activities for your children. Vegas really does have something for everyone, but parents need to make sure that their schedules allow for downtime, too! It’s the simplest way to ensure that everyone enjoys every minute of their Vegas getaway.
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