23 Things to Do with Kids in Las Vegas

By Janet Benoir – December 21, 2023

Las Vegas, often dubbed “Sin City,” might not strike you as a family-friendly destination at first glance, yet it harbors an abundance of activities suitable for children. The city offers families the opportunity to observe a diverse mix of wildlife and marine life and to wander through meticulously cultivated botanical gardens that feature an extensive variety of plants.

Beyond the glitz of casinos, Las Vegas unfolds as a playground for the young with its unique theme parks and water parks, ensuring that the excitement for your kids persists for the entire stay. When considering accommodations, numerous hotels in the area specialize in family-oriented amenities, striving to make your visit as comfortable and enjoyable for all age groups as possible.

Discovery Children’s Museum

At this museum, your children can engage with interactive exhibits designed to spark their interest in science, art, engineering, and technology. The “Water World” exhibit allows children to interact with models representing the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Colorado River Bypass Bridge, illustrating the dynamics of water.

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Another engaging exhibit is the “Fantasy Festival,” where children can immerse themselves in make-believe play aboard a full-scale pirate ship or within the walls of a medieval castle. This exhibit promotes imaginative play and storytelling in a colorful, hands-on environment.

Circus Circus Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

At Circus Circus, you’ll find The Adventuredome, an expansive indoor amusement park sure to energize visitors of all ages. It offers a variety of thrilling roller coasters and arcade games, ensuring no shortage of entertainment. Not to mention, mini golf and engaging circus performances are available at no additional charge.

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For the adventurous, there’s indoor rock climbing and cutting-edge virtual reality experiences. Meanwhile, younger guests may enjoy gentler activities such as riding carousels and bouncing around in bumper cars.

The Big Apple Roller Coaster

The Big Apple Roller Coaster, located at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, promises an exhilarating experience reaching speeds of over 67 mph. Its distinctive 180-degree twist, known as a “heartline” maneuver, pairs with a drop spanning 203 feet to deliver spine-tingling excitement. This attraction has drawn over 1.4 million individuals annually, making it a must-visit for the youth seeking a surge of adrenaline.

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Before you strap in for the thrill, ensure that you stand at least 54 inches tall without shoes as this is the requirement for the adventure ahead. Aimed at teenagers and pre-teens, the coaster’s whirls and dips offer a combination of thrills and breathtaking moments synonymous with Vegas excitement.

Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay Resort boasts an expansive aquatic area perfect for visitors of all ages. Within its 11 acres, you’ll find a wave pool that holds over 1.6 million gallons of water, creating a beach-like experience. There is also a lazy river that winds slowly, allowing for a relaxing float, and a dedicated swimming lagoon.

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For a more exclusive experience, you can reserve your own private cabana. These comfortable spaces offer the convenience of poolside service, ensuring that your favorite food and beverages are just an order away as you indulge in the aquatic pleasures of Mandalay Bay.

Shark Reef Aquarium

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, where over 2,000 sea creatures await your discovery. The expansive tank is a haven for a variety of species, including majestic rays and the formidable sharks that give the reef its name.

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Venture closer and you’ll encounter not only green sea turtles but also the rare sight of a Komodo dragon. A spine-chilling display of piranhas reveals their rapid hunting skills, adding a touch of excitement to your underwater exploration.

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

Located within the Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. offers an engaging, interactive experience. You’re invited to investigate the origins, abilities, and tools of iconic heroes like Captain America and Iron Man.

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As you journey through the installation, you’ll compile detailed dossiers on each hero to achieve the status of a recognized operative of the Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., a distinction reserved for true aficionados of the Marvel universe.

Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden

Your visit to the Bellagio isn’t complete without experiencing the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden. This expansive 14,000-square-foot sanctuary provides a stunning visual treat with its ever-changing themes that reflect the four seasons. A dedicated team of over 100 horticulture specialists meticulously maintains this indoor escape, offering a feast of color and creativity year-round.

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No matter your age or interests, there’s something to captivate everyone. The climate-controlled environment allows for a comfortable stroll to admire the intricate plant displays, no matter the weather outside. The conservatory ensures a fresh experience for each visit, with a dedication to showcasing the beauty of the natural world within the elegant confines of the Bellagio.

High Roller Las Vegas Strip Observation Wheel

The Las Vegas Strip’s High Roller Wheel stands as an iconic landmark, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This towering structure, one of the tallest of its kind, provides a unique vantage point for tourists and locals alike, showcasing the vibrant lights and bustling energy of Las Vegas from an unparalleled perspective.

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Equipped with luxurious cabins, the High Roller combines comfort with spectacle. Each rotation offers a serene, slow-moving journey, allowing passengers ample time to soak in the sights. It’s a popular attraction for those seeking a memorable experience, encapsulating the spirit of the city’s grandeur and its penchant for awe-inspiring structures.

Fountains of Bellagio

At the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, the Bellagio Fountains offer a captivating water spectacle. During the week, from the late afternoon until midnight, water cannons launch streams as high as a 46-story building, creating an awe-inspiring display.

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Weekends and holidays feature a similar rhythm, with performances commencing earlier in the day. This mesmerizing dance of water, light, and music is available to enjoy at no cost, regularly punctuating the Las Vegas nightscape with its harmonious display.

Las Vegas Helicopter Tour

When you embark on a helicopter tour in Las Vegas, you can expect to witness the city’s glittering lights from a bird’s-eye view. This adventure not only provides you with a unique perspective of the city’s sprawling metropolis but also allows you to soar over iconic landmarks such as the famous Las Vegas Strip, the Bellagio fountains, and even the majestic Hoover Dam if you choose a longer route.

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Remember, booking in advance can secure a more desirable time slot and potentially better pricing. Ensure safety by choosing tours operated by experienced pilots and companies with excellent safety records.

SeaQuest Las Vegas

Experience hands-on encounters with a variety of marine and terrestrial animals at SeaQuest. Encounter sharks, Asian river otters, and the arboreal kinkajou with its remarkable prehensile tail.

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Enjoy the opportunity to snorkel alongside stingrays, sharks, and a vibrant selection of tropical fish within the expansive underwater habitat.

Fun Dungeon at Excalibur Hotel & Casino

At the heart of the Excalibur, a sprawling castle-themed resort lies the Fun Dungeon, an arcade brimming with entertainment. Boasting over 200 games, there’s something to captivate every child. Immerse yourself in a colossal Pac-Man adventure or choose among 60 varied arcade challenges and 10 sports games designed to get your adrenaline pumping.

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For the younger adventurers, Kiddie Land offers 10 enchanting rides. Here, your little ones can roam in a space fashioned just for them, rounding out a family-friendly experience in a venue where laughter and joy echo amid the whir of machines and flashing lights.

M&M’s World Las Vegas

Within the expansive 28,000-square-foot M&M’s World, you’ll discover a four-story haven for chocolate lovers. Personalize your own M&M’s at a dedicated kiosk where you can choose from various colors and add unique logos to bring your creations to life.

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For motorsport enthusiasts, the store proudly showcases a replica of Kyle Busch’s M&M’s-sponsored NASCAR vehicle. Engage with the racing spirit and take part in the excitement that the M&M’s World integrates into your chocolate shopping experience.

Las Vegas Performances

In Las Vegas, you can find performances that captivate children’s imaginations, considering their ages and what catches their interest. Jabbawockeez at MGM Grand offers a dynamic dance experience that fascinates families.

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Visit Luxor Hotel & Casino for unique spectacles like Blue Man Group, known for their vibrant, multisensory performance, or relive the excitement of America’s Got Talent Las Vegas Live, which showcases a variety of family-appropriate acts.

Tournament of Kings

The Tournament of Kings in Las Vegas is a thrilling dinner show that transports audiences to a medieval world of knights, jousting, and royal intrigue. Perfect for families, it combines an engaging storyline with stunning live-action stunts and pyrotechnics, captivating children and adults alike. The interactive nature of the show, where guests cheer for their knight, adds to the excitement.

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Moreover, the show is designed to be kid-friendly with its dynamic, easy-to-follow plot and visually spectacular scenes. The inclusion of a feast eaten medieval-style (with hands) makes it a unique dining experience for kids, fostering a fun and immersive atmosphere. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a playful way to engage with history and chivalry.

Vegas Indoor Skydiving

Experience the exhilaration of skydiving without the risks at Vegas Indoor Skydiving. The facility’s vertical wind tunnel simulates the sensation of freefall, reaching wind speeds up to 120 mph, allowing for an authentic dive experience. You’ll be supported by a mesh trampoline floor and cushioned walls ensuring your safety.

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Your adventure includes a comprehensive training session and all necessary equipment to ensure a smooth experience. Be mindful of the height and weight restrictions to ensure eligibility for this thrilling activity. The excitement of flight awaits, with plenty of time in the wind tunnel to enjoy the feeling of weightlessness.

Lion Habitat Ranch

In Henderson, Nevada, a short journey from the glitz of the Strip, lies a sanctuary for wildlife, famed for its lion residents. This establishment is not limited to these majestic felines; it also houses a variety of animals, including tigers and even a giraffe. You have the opportunity to take part in tours that give you insight into the day-to-day care of these animals, encompassing their feeding, cleansing, and hydration routines.

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Should you opt for certain specialized tours, you’ll get the chance to interact more directly with the creatures by feeding them yourself. This interactive experience serves as a unique educational encounter that brings you up close with the awe-inspiring inhabitants of the Ranch.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Madame Tussauds in Las Vegas offers a unique, interactive experience that delights kids and adults alike. The attraction features lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities, sports icons, and historical figures, providing a fun and educational experience. Children are thrilled to see their favorite stars up close, and the opportunity to take photos with these figures creates lasting memories.

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The museum also offers interactive zones where kids can engage in hands-on activities, adding to the educational aspect of the visit. These interactive experiences, coupled with the vibrant, realistic settings, make learning about history and pop culture exciting for children. Madame Tussauds’ immersive environment makes it a fun and captivating destination for families.

The STRAT Hotel SkyPod

The STRAT Hotel’s SkyPod in Las Vegas offers a thrilling experience for families, standing as one of the tallest freestanding observation towers in the United States. Its panoramic views of the city are breathtaking, especially for kids who can witness the Las Vegas Strip from an extraordinary height. The SkyPod’s indoor and outdoor observation decks provide a safe, awe-inspiring experience for all ages.

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Additionally, the SkyPod hosts adrenaline-pumping rides like the Big Shot, X-Scream, and Insanity, perfect for adventure-seeking families. These attractions, set high above the city, offer unique thrills that are both exhilarating and memorable for children. For families looking for a less intense experience, the rotating Top of the World restaurant offers a scenic dining experience with stunning vistas.

Springs Preserve

At the Springs Preserve, less than 10 miles north from the hustle of the Strip, you can immerse yourself in the essence of Las Vegas history within a 180-acre cultural sanctuary. Attractions include the Origen Museum, which charts the evolution of the city, and the expansive Nevada State Museum.

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Beyond historical exhibits, the Preserve offers enlivening activities such as children’s playgrounds and varied galleries. Its celebrated botanical garden beckons with verdant allure, complemented by regular events like fossil digs and expert-led garden tours, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment of this desert jewel.

Hoover Dam

Located a brief drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam offers a stark contrast with its awe-inspiring structure against the desert backdrop. If you decide to visit, the journey by car is straightforward, or you can opt for a structured excursion that includes transportation.

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This landmark isn’t just a testament to engineering prowess; it also provides stunning panoramas of Lake Mead and the Colorado River. Visiting here allows you to witness firsthand the scale and significance of this iconic dam.

Downtown Container Park

At the heart of Fremont Street, you’ll find an innovative shopping and entertainment venue. Take in the fresh air while browsing a variety of shops and eateries that cater to a wide range of tastes, from casual sandwiches to sophisticated bubble tea.

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Climb and explore The Treehouse, boasting slides and fun for kids, or catch live entertainment and movies at the central stage, adding excitement to your experience without any cost.

Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas

Enjoy a refreshing escape just 20 minutes southwest from the bustle of the Las Vegas Strip at Wet’n’Wild. This water park offers a variety of aquatic attractions designed to entertain the whole family. From adrenaline-pumping tube slides to the gentle waves of the wave pool, there’s something to suit every thrill level.

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Your younger companions have their own play area with slides scaled for their size, while you can unwind on a leisurely journey along the lazy river. The park operates seasonally, so ensure you visit during the warmer months to take advantage of all the fun.