Family Travel

During the 1990s the big news was that Las Vegas was reinventing itself as a family destination. That plan only lasted a few years, but there are still quite a few attractions in Las Vegas that are suitable for families or at least suitable for the kids alone, depending on age, of course.

Circus Circus continues to be an excellent destination for adults with kids in tow. In addition to a few major attractions listed they have circus acts performing overhead, a large arcade, and carnival games as well. And don’t forget about the many visual attractions along the Las Vegas Strip itself. The volcano at the Mirage and the pirate show at the Treasure Island next door are ideal for family viewing and they are free as well.

Most of the large hotels have big arcades in them with plenty to keep older kids busy for a while. Several of them also have other activities for children during the way, and of course they nearly all have large pools.

Here are some of the more notable activities for kids in Las Vegas:

Gameworks

This huge and futuristic arcade is in the Showcase Mall next to the MGM Grand on the Strip. It’s a joint venture of Sega and Universal Studios and this place has every manner of arcade game, old and new, as well as a restaurant and even an upstairs bar for those over 21.

Adventuredome

Inside the Circus Circus Hotel (see the photo on at the top of this page) you’ll find a 5.5-acre, glass-enclosed theme park with roller coasters and other large rides mixed in with bumper cars and smaller attractions. There’s also an IMAX ride/film, a mini-golf course, laser tag, and an arcade. Individual rides are kind of expensive, but all-day passes are fairly reasonable.

Big Shot

This is one of three rides/attractions at the top of the Stratosphere Hotel that marks the northern edge of the Las Vegas Strip. These aren’t suitable for small children since you have to be 4-feet tall to ride, but these things can be a major thrill for older kids.

M&M’s World

This giant candy story is located in the Showcase Mall next to the MGM Grand, where Gameworks is also found. There is a 3-D movie theater as well as many other fun and surprising features that make this more than just a place to buy candy.

Roller Coast at New York, New York

This indoor-outdoor roller coaster is as expensive as it is thrilling, but group discounts and a strange all-day pass are available as well.

Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix

This high-quality go-kart track has kiddie cars for ages 4+ in addition to the Gran Prix cars that can be thrilling for older kids and adults. There is also plenty of other attractions including a large arcade, a big slide, a roller coaster, and cheap kid-friendly food.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

This fun and hands-on museum is located about 6 miles from the Strip so it’s best for a half-day trip to try to tire the kids out before night falls.

Road trips

The whole family can enjoy a day-trip to Red Rock Canyon, Hoover Dam, or the Grand Canyon, although the Canyon is far away so it works best as an overnight trip.

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