Las Vegas might be renowned for its casinos and nightlife, but to me it's also a fantastic destination for families, so hubby and I packed some bags with the kids and flew from LaGuardia Airport to Harry Reid International Airport to experience the fun G-rated version of sin city. The city offers a wide array of attractions that cater to children and parents alike, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation. Here are twelve must-visit spots in Las Vegas that both moms and kids will love.
1. Discovery Children’s Museum
First stop for us was the Discovery Children’s Museum. It's a haven for curious minds. Located in the Symphony Park area, this interactive museum offers nine themed exhibit halls filled with hands-on activities. From the Eco City, where kids can learn about sustainability, to the Fantasy Festival, which sparks imaginative play, the museum provides a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Moms will appreciate the educational value, while kids will love the opportunity to explore and play.
2. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Next up we trekked over to Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. We particularly loved this spot because our whole family are beach and sea people. We love the ocean and sea life. This area offers a mesmerizing underwater experience. Home to over 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles, this aquarium provides a unique opportunity to get up close with marine life. The interactive touch pools allow kids to gently touch various sea creatures, making it a memorable experience for the whole family. Moms will enjoy the educational exhibits and the serene environment, while kids will be thrilled by the underwater tunnel that offers 360-degree views of the aquatic life.
3. Adventuredome Theme Park
Located at Circus Circus, the Adventuredome Theme Park is an indoor amusement park that spans five acres. Being this is Vegas, anytime we weren't outside in the baking desert heat was a great cooldown break for us. This area has rides and attractions for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides, there’s something for everyone, and we took full advantage of this letting loose for a quick thrill and adrenaline rush. The climate-controlled environment ensures fun regardless of the weather outside. I really appreciated the variety of family-friendly rides, and my kids loved the carnival games, bumper cars, and 4D theater experiences.
4. The Mirage Volcano
So this is almost entirely a visual attraction, and we made sure to enjoy the view and took some cool videos and pics. The Mirage Volcano is a free attraction. So it combines fire, water, and music to create an unforgettable spectacle. It's right in front of The Mirage hotel and erupts nightly, shooting fireballs and water jets into the air, synchronized with music by The Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart and Indian tabla musician Zakir Hussain. It’s a captivating show that’s perfect for families to enjoy together. Moms will appreciate the beauty and creativity of the display, while kids will be awed by the dramatic eruptions.
5. High Roller Observation Wheel
The High Roller at The LINQ is the world’s tallest observation wheel, standing at 550 feet. A ride on the High Roller offers stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding desert landscape. Each cabin is spacious and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable experience for all ages. Moms will love the panoramic views and photo opportunities, while kids will enjoy the thrilling ride and the chance to see the city from a new perspective.
6. Springs Preserve
Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution dedicated to the history and ecology of Las Vegas. The preserve features botanical gardens, interactive museums, walking trails, and live animal exhibits. The Origen Museum and the Nevada State Museum are both located on-site and offer engaging exhibits about the region’s natural history and cultural heritage. Moms will appreciate the educational aspect and the beautiful natural surroundings, while kids will enjoy the hands-on activities and the chance to explore the outdoors.
7. Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden
A visit to the Ethel M Chocolate Factory offers a sweet treat for the whole family. Located in nearby Henderson, the factory provides free self-guided tours where you can watch the chocolate-making process. After the tour, explore the Botanical Cactus Garden, which features over 300 species of cacti and other desert plants. Moms will love the combination of chocolate and beautiful gardens, while kids will enjoy the chocolate samples and the unique plants.
8. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a must-see for families visiting Las Vegas. The gardens change with the seasons, offering stunning floral displays that are meticulously designed and maintained. Each display features thousands of plants and flowers, creating a magical atmosphere. Moms will appreciate the artistry and tranquility of the gardens, while kids will be fascinated by the vibrant colors and whimsical themes.
9. The Big Apple Coaster and Arcade
My family being native New Yorkers, we got curious about this next place. This is a taste of Time Square and more of New York City in Las Vegas, so we headed to the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. The Big Apple Coaster gave us a thrilling ride that includes twists, loops, and drops, all while providing a view of the Las Vegas Strip. After the ride, spend some time at the Big Apple Arcade, which features a variety of games and attractions. Moms will enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere of the arcade, while kids will love the excitement of the coaster and the fun games.
10. Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
Located at Treasure Island, Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. is an interactive exhibit that immerses visitors in the world of the Avengers. The attraction features authentic props and costumes from the Marvel films, as well as interactive displays and training simulations. Moms will appreciate the high-quality exhibits and the chance to learn more about the Marvel universe, while kids will love the hands-on activities and the opportunity to see their favorite superheroes up close.
11. Las Vegas Natural History Museum
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum offers a wide range of exhibits that explore the natural world. Highlights include a dinosaur exhibit, a marine life gallery, and an international wildlife room. The museum also features interactive displays and hands-on activities that are perfect for kids. Moms will enjoy the educational exhibits and the chance to explore the natural history of the region, while kids will be captivated by the life-sized dinosaur models and the interactive displays.
12. Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience is a lively pedestrian mall located in downtown Las Vegas. The area features a canopy of LED lights that create spectacular light shows, as well as live entertainment, street performers, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Moms will appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the variety of dining options, while kids will be entertained by the light shows, live music, and street performers.
Tips for Traveling Moms:
- Plan Ahead: Research attractions and make a rough itinerary to ensure you hit all the highlights.
- Stay Hydrated: Las Vegas can be hot, so keep water bottles handy for you and the kids.
- Use Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially for outdoor activities.
- Take Breaks: Pace yourselves to avoid exhaustion. Las Vegas can be overwhelming, and kids may need downtime.
- Snack Smart: Carry healthy snacks to keep energy levels up without relying solely on fast food.
- Budget Wisely: Some attractions can be pricey. Look for discounts or combo tickets to save money.
- Stay Central: Consider staying on the Strip or in central locations to minimize travel time to attractions.
- Engage Kids: Involve kids in planning to ensure they’re excited about the itinerary.
Las Vegas is a city full of surprises and adventures for families. If you and your kids are down for a good family road trip, make those plans for an adventure ride straight to Vegas. If not just hop on a nice flight across country to get here. From interactive museums and thrilling rides to beautiful gardens and unique attractions, there’s something for everyone. By exploring these twelve favorite places, moms and kids can create lasting memories and experience the diverse offerings of Las Vegas together. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for a fun-filled family adventure in the entertainment capital of the world!
