Best Activities for Kids to Enjoy in Las Vegas
For a while now, Vegas has had the moniker of a grown-ups' paradise. As you might guess, Sin City got its name for a valid reason.
However, just as often as it's full of adults, you'll spot families strolling down The Strip as well. If you're thinking about bringing your kids to Las Vegas, you'd be thrilled to know that there's plenty of family-friendly fun to be had.
A recent survey conducted by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) revealed that in 2019, only 5% of visitors brought their children with them. Fast forward to 2021, and a...
21% did
So, what's the deal if you're among them? We've rounded up our top 10 family-friendly activities, with 5 completely free!
5 THINGS TO DO IN LAS VEGAS THAT WON'T COST YOU A DIME
1. Catch the acts at The Midway, Circus Circus
Many people flock to The Midway at Circus Circus for the 200+ arcade games. But why pay for games when you can watch the circus show for free?
Situated in the heart of The Midway is the Circus Stage where you can enjoy acts like high-flying trapeze artists and clowns. During weekends, new performances crop up every half hour, and they're free no matter what time or day! Starting times vary between 1:30 p.m. (Monday - Thursday) and 11:30 a.m. (Friday - Sunday).
2. Hershey's Chocolate World, New York-New York Hotel and Casino
If you're a fan of chocolate, make sure to swing by Hershey's Chocolate World. It's in the New York-New York Hotel and Casino.
Here, you can create your own chocolate bars, shop for neat chocolate presents, and even star in your OWN Reese's peanut butter cup commercial! This place is purely for all the selfie-takers out there because it also houses an 800-lb chocolate sculpture of the Statue of Liberty.
3. Fountains of Bellagio
The Fountains of Bellagio are yet another famous Vegas sight that's bound to impress the entire family.
Watch the water fountains put on a mesmerizing show synchronized to music. In the evening, the whole affair becomes even more thrilling thanks to the brilliant lights that light up the spectacular water jets. The fountain performances start at 3 pm Monday – Friday and midday Saturday - Sunday.
4. Visit the Venetian Resort's Grand Canal Shoppes
On those hot Las Vegas days, the best way to cool off is by taking a stroll inside The Venetian. The resort welcomes you to the sights and sounds of Venice with its shopping mall, the Grand Canal Shoppes.
There's a canal running through it and real singing gondoliers for good measure! Plus, there are tons of stores to shop in and cafes to grab a bite at if the hunger pangs hit.
5. Watch the Mirage volcano eruption
You might've heard that nothing lasts forever, and that's especially true in Vegas. The news that the Mirage volcano was going to retire for a guitar-shaped tower hit the headlines. Luckily, Hard Rock Resorts agreed to keep the volcano around a little while longer.
As of now, it erupts every hour from 7 pm - 11 pm nightly, treating you to a sight of fire and lava bursting into the night sky via a suspenseful soundtrack.
Check out some more free things to do in Vegas here.
5 TICKETED THINGS TO DO IN LAS VEGAS
6. Discovery Children's Museum
This museum is great for little ones. All the exhibits are hands-on, interactive, and just plain fun. The Fantasy Festival area has a life-sized pirate ship, while Patent Pending is all about kids using their creativity and problem-solving skills.
The whole museum is sizable, so even the pickiest child will find something that interests them.
Cost: Nevada residents $13.50; General admission $15.50; Children under 1 go for free.
7. The Tank at Golden Nugget Hotel
What makes Golden Nugget Hotel's pool so special? We can give you one guess: the 30-ft slide that passes through a 200,000-gallon aquarium. Now that's something you don't see every day, right? The pool's clean, roomy, and you can even glimpse the aquarium while swimming.
For the adults, the pool's a pleasant haven away from the hustle and bustle of Vegas.
8. The Strat Observation Deck
Located at The Strat, the Observation Deck is 869 feet above the Strip and gives you the chance to see the best views Las Vegas has to offer.
The observation deck is indoors so it's great for when the weather's less than desirable. And let's not forget the thrilling Big Shot ride that takes you at a breakneck speed up 160 feet before hurling you back down. The little ones may be too scared for this one, or they can check out the nearby arcade and escape room instead.
Cost: $23.95 for adults, $15.95 for children 4-12.
9. Adventuredome at Circus Circus
Adventuredome is arguably the largest indoor theme park in the entire country. This place has 25 rides, including a roller coaster, ferris wheel, 4D theater, and even a roller coaster for toddlers!
Cost: $30 for an all-day pass, $20 for younger kids.
10. The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Take the family to encounter over 2,000 marine animals like sharks, rays, piranhas, and Komodo dragons at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. The aquarium houses a 1.3 million-gallon shark tank and is comprised of 14 exhibits.
Cost: $23.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (3-11), free for kids under 3.
There you have it! Ten exciting things to do in Vegas with your loved ones. From free circus performances to the famous Shark Reef Aquarium, there's something for everyone.
Happy travels!
At Mandalay Bay, the Shark Reef Aquarium is another destination for those seeking an aquatic experience. This brilliant aquarium has more than 2,000 sea creatures like giant rays and sea turtles. The staff's vast knowledge enables them to answer any queries you might have about these fascinating animals. If you fancy a more intimate encounter with these animals, additional activities such as feeding rays and sharks can be purchased.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay - A Second Look
Do you think The Tank doesn't provide a sufficient range of sea life for you? If yes, your best bet would be to visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
This captivating aquarium shelters numerous aquatic beings including giant rays and sea turtles. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and will easily answer any questions you might have about these aquatic creatures. Additionally, exclusive experiences such as feeding stingrays or sharks can also be purchased.
Cost: (For pre-booking) $29.00 for adults; $24.00 for children, aged 5-12 years; Kids aged 4 and under can enter free of charge.
Circus Circus Adventuredome: A Thrilling Experience
Although some attractions, like the Circus Circus pool, might feel a bit outdated, the iconic hotel and casino, Circus Circus, still boasts features that receive rave reviews. One such feature is the Adventuredome.
Within this complex, you'll find adrenaline-pumping rides like Chaos and Slingshot, alongside classic attractions such as bumper cars. However, be aware that certain rides only allow access to those measuring more than 48 inches tall. Nevertheless, experiences like the laser challenge and virtual reality rooms are devoid of this height requirement.
Though the entrance is free, purchasing tickets or wristbands for these rides can be rather costly, as many visitors need to accompany their children.
Cost: Regular All-day ride pass (for those over 48 inches): $60.00; Junior All-day ride pass (33 inches - 48 inches): $30.00
The Long-Standing Favorite: Tournament of Kings
No doubt you know about the Tournament of Kings, a show-cum-supper at The Excalibur that has been a Las Vegas tradition since 1990. During the 90-minute extravaganza, you'll witness knights jousting and fighting, while sorcerers unleash chilling spells. With approximately 30 performers and nearly as many horses, the show is undeniably one of the most spectacular in town. Both adults and children will have plenty of fun as they cheer for their king, while the unconventional meal of Cornish Game hen and potatoes adds an extra touch of excitement.
Cost: Tickets typically cost around $70.
For more economical activities in Las Vegas, have a look at this list.
The feature image is from Lyle Hastie/Unsplash
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