2025’s Hidden Gem: Las Vegas with Kids
Things to Do in Vegas with Kids
“I can’t believe I got to see the REAL Eiffel Tower!”
Sophie and Rachel taking in the view of the famous Las Vegas Strip
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Planning your next big family adventure and looking for something beyond the usual beach vacation? If you're searching for excitement, bright lights, and unforgettable experiences, Las Vegas might already be on your radar. But can Las Vegas for kids really work? With its reputation for glitzy casinos and adult entertainment, you might think a family trip to Vegas is out of the question.
Here’s the secret—there’s a whole other side filled with incredible family activities in Las Vegas! From thrilling attractions to mesmerizing shows, this city can be a paradise for kids when you know where to look.
We had the same doubts. Las Vegas with kids? Kevin, and I had always loved Vegas as a couple’s getaway—fancy restaurants, high-energy nightlife, and world-class entertainment. But when Kevin suggested a quick Vegas stop on our way to San Diego during our “Big Trip,” we took the gamble. And guess what? We hit the jackpot!
From interactive museums and kid-friendly performances to jaw-dropping attractions, we discovered Las Vegas with kids is not only possible—it’s amazing. Get ready to explore the best things to do in Las Vegas for kids and see why this city is an unexpectedly fantastic family destination!
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A Memorable Family-Friendly Welcome to Las Vegas
If you're looking for things to do in Las Vegas with kids, your adventure might start before you even reach the city! On one of our most memorable trips, we arrived in Las Vegas by car for the first time after spending the night at the Grand Canyon. We had no idea that our introduction to family-friendly Las Vegas would be so thrilling!
Out of nowhere, a fighter jet approached from the driver’s side of the car and, when it was directly in front of us, it shot straight up in the air. A few seconds later, the sound hit us like a giant BOOM! It was shocking and we were still recovering when another jet performed the same maneuver and began chasing after the first. We’re not sure what kind of military drill was going on, but it was certainly a thrilling and memorable way to be welcomed to Las Vegas!
One of the fighter jets that gave us an unforgettable welcome to Vegas (hard to capture as it was so fast)
Once we entered the city, we headed straight to our hotel, located right on Las Vegas Boulevard. Along the way, we passed the dazzling Paris Hotel and Casino, featuring its impressive Eiffel Tower replica. Our daughter Sophie, wide-eyed with excitement, gasped and exclaimed, "I can't believe I got to see the REAL Eiffel Tower!"
We laughed, realizing that in her mind, she had just crossed a major travel experience off her list. Jokingly, we talked about all the money we'd saved by not having to take her to Paris, France. Though, this moment may have sparked the idea for our 3-month trip to France years later!
Las Vegas might have a reputation for nightlife, but it's full of family-friendly activities that make it a great destination for kids, too. From seeing the Eiffel Tower to catching unexpected surprises, there's never a dull moment.
A Night on the Las Vegas Strip with Kids
After checking into our hotel, we kicked off our family Las Vegas adventure with our favorite, delicious brick oven pizza before setting out to explore. Never in a million years did we expect to visit Las Vegas with all three of our daughters, but we quickly realized that this city has changed since our last trip as a couple. There are now plenty of things to do in Las Vegas with kids, making it a fun and exciting destination for families.
By the time our meal was done, the sun had set, and the city had come to life with its dazzling lights. Watching Kevin walk hand in hand with our youngest daughters down the iconic Las Vegas strip at night was a special moment. Our girls were mesmerized by the brilliant glow of the Eiffel Tower replica and the illuminated hot air balloon nearby. As we continued our walk, they excitedly pointed out so many cool, neon-lit buildings, soaking in the magic of the city.
Click on photo to enlarge and see descriptions.
After an evening of exploring, the girls were exhausted. So, we headed back to the hotel, got them settled for the night, and left our oldest in charge (yes, she is over 18!). With the kids tucked in, Kevin and I took the opportunity to enjoy a classic Las Vegas experience, grabbing a drink and trying our luck at a little video poker in the casino.
Whether you're walking the Strip, admiring the stunning lights, or enjoying a family meal together, there is no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas with kids to create unforgettable memories.
Las Vegas Through the Eyes of Kids
Waking up in Las Vegas is always an experience, but this morning brought an unexpected surprise. When I opened my eyes, I noticed that Rachel was missing from her bed. A wave of panic hit as I checked the bathroom, looked around the room, and even made sure the deadbolt was still secured. With my heart racing, I spotted the tiniest movement in the curtains.
There she was—pressed up against the glass, completely mesmerized by the amazing view of the Las Vegas Strip. The flashing lights, towering hotels, and giant billboards had her awestruck. She couldn’t wait to go out and explore!
Starting the Day with a Delicious (& Affordable) Las Vegas Breakfast
We made our way to La Crêperie inside Paris Las Vegas, where the girls shared a cinnamon bun crêpe while Kevin and I split a Monte Cristo and a ham & cheese crêpe. Not only was the food absolutely delicious, but it ended up being cheaper than we expected, proving that Las Vegas can be family-friendly on a budget!
With full bellies, we were ready for a day of fun and free things to do in Las Vegas with kids.
Exploring Iconic Hotels & Family Activities in Las Vegas
As we strolled through the Strip, Sophie couldn’t help but notice the flashing lights and lively sounds coming from the casinos. She excitedly asked when we could visit one of the “carnivals.” We had to gently explain that these were adults-only “carnivals” and that she’d have to wait until she turned 21. Slightly disappointed, but understanding, we continued our adventure.
Our first stop was the Bellagio Hotel, where we admired the breathtaking Chihuly glass ceiling and wandered through the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a free family-friendly attraction, featuring stunning seasonal displays made of flowers and greenery. The girls were fascinated by the intricate designs and fresh citrus scents filling the air.
As former residents of Louisville, KY, we loved seeing this tribute to Muhammad Ali at the Bellagio Hotel.
Next, we explored Caesars Palace, where our daughters quickly became fixated on the abundance of nude statues, particularly, the female statues with "boobies," as Sophie called them. They giggled their way past these marble sculptures, but the real comedy came when we reached the replica of Michelangelo’s David.
As we approached from the back, nine-year-old Rachel suddenly realized that the statue was three-dimensional and decided to sneak around for a view of the front. She came back wide-eyed, hands over her face, exclaiming, “I’m going to have to wash my eyes!” Meanwhile, five-year-old Sophie trailed behind her, shouting, “What the heck!” Kevin and I couldn’t help but wonder how long we’d have to wait before exposing them to real European art on a future trip.
At this point, Sophie turned to Kevin and asked, “Daddy, why did you even bring us here?” We decided it was time to shift gears to something a little more “age-appropriate.”
A Free Family-Friendly Wildlife Experience in Las Vegas
We headed across the street to the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, home to the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas with kids. The girls loved watching the beautiful pink flamingos, koi fish, and turtles in a lush tropical setting.
After exploring, we treated ourselves to milkshakes at Johnny Rockets, where each of us ended up with an extra half-serving from the classic metal mixing cups—definitely a great value for families! However, after all that sugar, we were starting to crash. We headed back to our hotel for a much-needed family nap, recharging for an exciting evening ahead.
By the time we woke up, it was 6:30pm, and we were ready to eat. We chose to walk to Treasure Island for dinner, which has affordable food options for families. This unfortunately, was a crucial mistake, as we forgot that a walk between casinos on the strip can be very LONG.
When we finally arrived at Treasure Island, we admired the massive pirate ships glowing in the evening lights. Though they no longer feature the original live pirate show, the ships are still a cool sight and a fun, free attraction for kids.
At this point, our youngest had enough of the walking, sightseeing, and pictures. She, like the rest of us, was getting to that dreaded state of HANGRY! So, we headed inside to grab a quick dinner and appease the pending beasts within us. We scarfed down our food and soon began to feel like ourselves again. We finished our evening with a leisurely (long) walk back to our hotel. The cooler temperatures made for a perfect nighttime stroll, allowing us to soak in the iconic sights, smells, and sounds of Las Vegas.
With our two youngest daughters tucked into bed, Kevin, Ellie, and I ended our unforgettable family-friendly Las Vegas day with a cozy movie night.
With a little planning, Las Vegas can be a budget-friendly, family-friendly destination full of wonderful (and hangry) experiences.
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Our Tips for Enjoying Vegas with Kids
While it’s true that a Las Vegas family vacation will be different from an adults-only excursion, there are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas with kids. We encourage you to give it a try, we are confident you’ll be pleasantly surprised! Here are some of our recommendations for having the best Las Vegas family vacation:
Book the Right Accommodation for Your Family
When traveling to Las Vegas with kids, where you stay can make a huge difference in your experience. Depending on your family’s priorities—whether it's being close to all the action, enjoying a more relaxed vibe, or even saving a bit of cash—there are a variety of accommodation options to consider, including one that we bet you have never thought of! Let’s break down the best family-friendly choices across different areas of the city.
INSIDER TIP: Be careful when booking hotels directly through the hotel's website. Even though the hotel may say "they have the lowest prices," in reality, many third-party sites, like Vegas.com (which we have found to be the best) partner with the hotel and have negotiated lower rates.
For example, we found a two queen bed valley view room at The Strat Hotel (using the hotel's website) to be $1,215 for a five night stay. On Vegas.com, the same hotel and two queen room with free cancellation was $702. Of course, these rates may change at any point, so please do your research.
On the Strip: The Heart of the Action – Staying on the Strip puts you in the center of all the action and excitement. You’ll have easy access to family-friendly attractions, restaurants, and shows. This option is perfect for families that want to be close to iconic Vegas landmarks and themed hotels without the hassle of transportation.
Here are three of the most popular hotels for families on the strip. We chose these hotels based on price, rating, and family-friendliness:
It's a Pyramid with a five-acre pool area with four pools, a whirlpool, and 12 private cabanas.
It offers some of the more affordable hotel rates on the Strip and the property is packed with things to do. It won't break your budget, but you won't feel like you're staying in a budget hotel.
INSIDER TIP: Enclosed and air-conditioned corridors connect the Luxor to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur so you'll never need to step outdoors in hot or inclement weather.
Everyone wants to be near the center of the Strip. This is just the place to do that! Caesar's, Flamingo, Observation Wheel, Bellagio Fountains, and more are all within a short walk. You don't have to pay through the nose for that privilege.
As you know, some things on the Strip aren't within walking distance—but you can get to those via the Las Vegas Monorail. There's a station that straddles Harrah's and The LINQ Hotel & Casino behind the properties. (Find more info on the monorail in Tip #6.)
INSIDER TIP: If you want to utilize the pool, be aware of a few things. The pool is not very big or fancy, it closes early in the day, and there are not many lounge chairs or cabanas. It is not a highlight of the property.
Fun-for-all-ages atmosphere, no frills accommodations, castle theme, and great location!
There's an obvious reason why a lot of families choose to stay here: it's cheap! And even with the resort fee, you'll still save a bundle.
INSIDER TIP: There are four luxurious pools, a water slide, and 19 cabanas (each stocked with all the essentials to keep cool). You need to reserve the cabanas well in advance. FYI, pool season at Excalibur begins March 1st.
Off the Strip: A More Relaxed Family Experience – Staying off the Strip provides a more peaceful environment, but still allows relatively easy access to the Strip. Located one or more blocks away, these off-Strip options allow parents to balance the excitement of Las Vegas with a calm retreat at the end of the day. Often, these hotels can provide a better value, larger rooms and suites, and a much slower pace. An Uber can quickly get you to the main attractions if walking isn’t feasible. (Some even provide a complimentary shuttle to get you to the Strip.) This option is perfect for families who want to avoid the noise and crowds of the Strip, allowing the kids to rest without as much distraction.
Here are three of the most popular hotels for families off the strip. We chose these hotels based on price, rating, and family-friendliness:
Elvis history meets modern luxury. The hotel is located about a block east of the Strip. You can hop on the monorail and travel with ease to several mega resorts, including MGM Grand.
The pool has a 5-acre deck with an incredible view of the Strip, plus a hot tub. The pool is open from 10am to 6pm daily. Seasonal pool dates are from March 1st–October 31st.
INSIDER TIP: While staying at Westgate, you must take time to immerse yourself in Elvis lore! Rub the famous statue of Elvis near the lobby. Consume The Elvis Sandwich—a battered and fried peanut butter, jelly, and banana sandwich—in Sid's Café.
The hotel is contemporary, artistic, and an off-Strip oasis. The hotel staff consistently receives high ratings on service, friendliness, and helpfulness. It also has 2 luxury pools with cabanas and daybeds.
One of our favorite things about the Palms is that it's one of the only hotels near the Strip with a movie theatre inside. A 14-theatre Cineplex that includes IMAX and JBX so that you can visit Las Vegas without the fear of missing the midnight premiere of your favorite superhero movie!
INSIDER TIP: The Palms is located near, but not on, the Strip. For those without a car, the distance isn't walkable. This means you'll either have to take taxis or use your favorite ride-sharing apps.
This hotel is connected to the Palms Resort Hotel, but has a more quiet, family-focused feel. No casino or smoking here, and the accommodations feel more like urban condos than hotel rooms.
At Palms Place, there are rooms with a fully equipped kitchen, at least two large plasma TVs, a spa tub, waterfall shower, and even a small TV in the bathroom.
INSIDER TIP: Ask for an upgrade to a 1-bedroom suite, which includes a larger kitchen, fireplace, in-unit laundry facilities and a sofa bed. (While it's not guaranteed that you'll be upgraded for free, you can decide if the extra cost is worth it for your family.)
Downtown: The Cool, Up-&-Coming Spot – Staying in Downtown Las Vegas offers a completely different experience than the Strip. The Downtown area offers budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing fun. It tends to be a little more laid-back than the Strip but still offers tons of excitement. Fremont Street offers some unique entertainment like the Fremont Street Experience light show and even a zipline! If you’re looking for a bit of nostalgia—this is where Las Vegas began, after all—this could be the perfect spot for your family.
Here are two of the most popular hotels for families downtown. We can only recommend two hotels due to a lack of kid-friendly choices. We chose these hotels based on price, rating, and family-friendliness:
Classic Vegas elegance, upscale but not out of reach, with ample room choices for families of all sizes.
We can say with complete confidence there's no other hotel pool in town like The Tank. Not only does this outdoor complex have a lush setting with two cascading waterfalls, but there's a 200,000-gallon aquarium filled with sharks and a three-story water slide will take you right through the center of it!
INSIDER TIP: If noise is an issue and you're not in Vegas to party, request a room on the Golden Nugget’s south side—in other words, not facing the Fremont Street Experience, where there's a stage and music plays until the wee hours.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the excitement of downtown Las Vegas while staying in a legendary Las Vegas property, the Plaza Hotel has everything you will need for a memorable and exciting Las Vegas family vacation.
The Plaza Hotel's "Fireworks Friday" every Friday at 9:15pm light up the sky above downtown Las Vegas, making it the perfect festive family block party atmosphere.
INSIDER TIP: Renew your marital vows with your whole family, Vegas style! The Plaza Hotel has an on-site wedding chapel.
Uncommon Accommodation: TrustedHousesitters – Staying where your family can spread out is often difficult in Las Vegas, but not impossible. In fact, if your plans are flexible, you may just be able to score a larger place to stay, with the benefit of a pet (or a few), all while reducing your total travel expenses!
Would you believe us if we told you that you could travel the world and stay in cozy homestays while spending time with cute pets? We have had great success using TrustedHousesitters over the past year (in the U.S. and Europe) to combine our love of travel and pets. The best part… no money changes hands. A true win-win situation!
What is TrustedHousesitters? TrustedHousesitters is a unique platform that matches pet owners with those willing to pet-sit while traveling. This is an ideal solution for families who love animals and are open to taking care of someone’s pet(s) and home while also enjoying the sights and sounds of Las Vegas with kids! You can find listings for homes near the Strip, in suburban neighborhoods, or even in surrounding areas like Henderson or Summerlin.
Why Choose It?: If you're looking for a way to cut costs while staying in a family-friendly home environment, TrustedHousesitters offers a fantastic solution. You get accommodation, usually in a fully equipped home/apartment, and in exchange, you care for the pet(s) and home during your stay.
This is especially great for families with kids who have a structured schedule which includes breaks for naps and/or for those who just want occasional trips to the Strip while in town. It is also an appealing option for those who want a more home-like atmosphere with room for everyone to spread out, a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook meals, and a pet (or a few) to spoil and love while in town.
You can browse pet sits around Las Vegas (or the world) for FREE before committing to a paid membership just by signing up for an account HERE.
Then, when you're ready, you can choose your annual plan depending on your needs. The annual subscription is extremely affordable. In fact, just one pet sit will most likely cover the annual fee. Use our discount code—UNCOMMON25—for a 25% discount on your first year!
Know When & Where to Refuel
Knowing how much your kids can handle is essential! It can take a long time to walk from one casino to another and kids can get worn out quickly. Plan your must-see items first and leave time to just stop and enjoy street performers and the many amazing things that you can only see in Vegas.
Throughout your day, drink a lot of water and refuel with quality food! You want to avoid getting dehydrated and hangry in the desert heat. If you don’t want to carry a water bottle with you, make sure you stop periodically to hydrate. (You might even want an ice cream treat.)
There are so many delicious restaurants in Las Vegas, many of them owned by famous chefs. They range from casual and family-friendly to high-end culinary experiences. Here are some kid-friendly dining options:
The Rainforest Cafe, located just outside Planet Hollywood, provides an entertaining dining experience with animatronics that will thrill younger kids. There’s also a menu of kid-friendly foods for picky eaters, including Rainforest Rascals (mini-burgers), Jurassic Chicken Tidbits (dinosaur-shaped nuggets), Python Pasta (with choice of sauce), and Gorilla Grilled Cheese Delight (grilled cheese on Texas toast).
Carmine’s Restaurant, located in the Forum Shops at Caesars, is a great option for a family style meal. There’s a wide selection of classic Italian pastas, chicken, seafood, and decadent dessert items that can feed a hungry teenager or be shared with a younger child.
Hash House a Go Go Restaurant serves Midwest-inspired dishes and is located inside The LINQ. With beautiful and delicious options like Sage Fried Chicken Benedict, “Twisted” Flapjacks, and Farmhouse Egg Scrambles, you are sure to get your day started on the right foot. While they specialize in breakfast foods, they have hearty sandwiches, salads, and entrees on offer as well. They are only open until 3pm most days but do stay open until 9pm on the weekend.
Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is the largest buffet in Las Vegas! While it’s definitely NOT the cheapest dining option, it is SURE to satisfy your hungry teenager! With over 250 items, it’s also guaranteed to have something that your picky-eater will love. The buffet offers several serving times each day so check their website at the link above to find the offer that meets your needs.
Johnny Rockets has always been a family favorite of ours for a delicious burger, fries, and a generously-sized milkshake! They have several locations in Las Vegas; you’ll find them located in Excalibur, Flamingo, Venetian, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, and several other sites around town.
Enjoy Things to do in Las Vegas with Kids
Here are a few of the popular ones that are sure to entertain your kids:
Fun Dungeon at Excalibur is a family-friendly arcade that is open daily from noon until 11pm. There are over 200 games that include sports, virtual reality, traditional arcade, and even some retro games that will make mom and dad feel like a kid again. You won’t even have to go far to quench your thirst or satisfy your sweet tooth, because Dairy Queen and Orange Julius are located right in the Fun Dungeon!
The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is open daily from 10am to 8pm. The aquarium is home to over 2,000 animals in various tanks. Committed to conservation, this aquarium is sustainably operated in partnership with organizations that educate the public and rescue endangered aquatic animals. Ticket prices start at $29 for adults and there are several add-on experiences available that allow families to feed sharks, turtles, or stingrays.
Discovery Children’s Museum in Downtown Las Vegas is the top interactive museum in Southern Nevada! It is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from noon until 5pm. This non-profit museum has been operating for over 30 years and offers permanent and temporary immersive exhibits.
Kids can solve mysteries, get creative with art projects, or transform into an inventor or archaeologist. There’s even a special desert-themed area for toddlers to play. General admission is $20 for non-local guests over 1 year of age and parking is free with paid admission.
Hershey’s Chocolate World Las Vegas in the New York Hotel & Casino, offers some exclusive Hershey’s products and gifts. This 13,000 square-foot store features a sculpture of the Statue of Liberty, made of almost 800 pounds of Hershey’s milk chocolate! You can even customize your own chocolate bar for a one-of-a-kind experience! While it’s free to visit the store, we’re sure you’ll spend a bit of money on treats before you leave.
The High Roller at The LINQ is an observation wheel that can be found. This enormous ferris wheel is the largest in North America! It soars 550 feet into the sky, offering a panoramic view of the Las Vegas Strip that lasts about 30 minutes. The ride features 28 cabins, holding up to 40 people each. Tickets start at $18. It costs a little less before 5pm, but a night ride over the Strip is a truly memorable experience.
The LINQ even offers a S.T.E.M. self-guided curriculum sheet that will help give you and your kids a bonus educational experience. A free PDF from their website, guides you through a series of facts about the ride and questions that will help your child think about how they would design and build their own ride.
Adventuredome at Circus Circus is a 5 acre indoor amusement park that features 25 rides and attractions! There’s so much fun for families here, from a laser maze to rock climbing and bungee jumping, arcade and midway games, and even miniature golf.
For riders over 48” tall, the Adventuredome has several fun rides. The Canyon Blaster is the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster! It tops out at 55mph as it speeds through the dome. While there are lots of fun things for little ones here, we really think your teens, in particular, will love the Adventuredome.
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is found on the roof! Riders must be 54” to ride (without footwear - so no cheating). Featuring a 180 degree “heartline” twist and dive maneuver and a 203ft drop, this roller coaster is made for thrill ride enthusiasts!
Tickets start at $25 and you must reserve a time and date in advance of your arrival. Please note that ride operation is subject to weather conditions. While at New York-New York, you can also spend some time in the Big Apple Arcade where you can play classic games as a family.
The STRAT Tower and Thrill Rides at The STRAT Hotel are a terrific option for your thrill-seeking tweens and teens. In addition to having one of the best views at the STRAT Tower Observation Deck (the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S.), you’ll also have access to some adrenaline spiking rides! You can shoot 160 feet in the air at 45 mph on the Big Shot or take a ride on a roller coaster that dangles 866 feet above the skyline on X-Scream! The Tower also features some delicious food options including the Top of the World 360 degree revolving restaurant.
Admission to the Tower Observation Deck starts at $22 for kids up to 12 and $27 for ages 13+. Tickets for The Big Shot and X-Scream automatically include access to the observation deck. The rides are very popular attractions and often sell out so be sure to plan ahead if this experience is on your bucket list. Costs vary based on time of day and week.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor is a great place to learn about the ill-fated passenger ship. For families who homeschool, like we do, or just have an interest in history, this exhibition hits all the right notes. If anything, it is under promoted!
Yes, there are some upsells that occur ($20 for a digital picture to recreate the iconic “king of the world” moment from the movie). If you skip out on those extras, the exhibition itself, including an actual iceberg you can touch, is well done and worth the price of the ticket. General admission tickets are $32 for kids 4-12 (0-3 are free) and $39 for adults.
Twilight Zone Mini Golf at the Horseshoe Hotel & Casino is a 10,000 square-foot themed course with a unique glow-in-the-dark 18 hole mini golf experience. With custom props, artwork, and an on-site live DJ, you’ll have your most memorable round yet! Also available are arcade games, bowling, and a Sci-Fi wedding chapel!
The Springs Preserve, known as the “birthplace of Las Vegas,” is a great source for learning and family fun. As a home-schooling family, we are always looking for interesting educational opportunities to enjoy together. This 180 acre site serves just that purpose as it teaches the history of Las Vegas and is committed to providing a sustainable future. The site served as the original source of water for Native Americans who lived on these lands thousands of years ago.
The Springs Preserve includes museums, galleries, educational films, an animal habitat, a botanical garden, and even hosts outdoor events. Explore a butterfly habitat, visit the Nevada State Museum, take a train ride (free with admission), and play on the playground or Splash Pad. There are a lot of ways to learn and have fun as a family here!
General admission for non-residents is $10.95 for kids ages 3-17 (0-3 are free) and $18.95 for adults. It is strongly recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance—particularly if you want to visit during weekends or holidays.
Book Las Vegas Family-Friendly Shows
There are actually quite a few shows that will make your Vegas with kids trip fun and memorable for all of you. Be sure to talk to your hotel concierge who can help you identify appropriate shows and book tickets. Here are just a few:
Tournament of Kings at Excalibur Hotel & Casino is definitely kid-friendly. This show, which debuted in 1990, is the longest running Vegas show still in production. Over seven million audience members have seen one of its many productions. Kids can eat with their hands and marvel at the live action show that blends pyrotechnics with knights and horses acting out an adapted tale of King Arthur. The theater is a 900 seat arena, giving diners the feel of a Roman colosseum. Show packages start at $68 and can be booked in advance.
Mat Franco Magic Reinvented Nightly plays at The LINQ. As a former winner of America’s Got Talent, Mat Franco’s show is a perfect Vegas with kids option! Back for its 10th season in 2025, his show promises to reinvent old favorite tricks and introduce never before seen surprises. He uses some close-up magic to make the crowd feel like part of the show and even improvises moments with his audience to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. (Please note that kids need to be 5 years or older to attend this show.) This is a popular show with prices starting at $49. We HIGHLY recommend booking in advance. Reserve now at Mat Franco Magic.
Eagles: Live in Concert at the Sphere. What’s better than an Eagles concert? Well, an Eagles concert in Las Vegas, of course! The legendary Eagles are now in residency at the renowned Sphere. Although the band is done touring, this residency gives fans another chance to see these rock stars live before they hang up their instruments for good. You won’t want to miss out on catching this show. (The concert is great for all ages, except toddlers.)
Mystère by Cirque du Soleil at Treasure Island is a family-friendly show that never disappoints. There’s a reason this show is one of the longest running shows in Vegas. It debuted in 1993 as the first permanent Cirque production in town. It features an international cast of over 65 performers that is sure to entertain and amaze your family! You’ll be treated to a presentation with high-flying acrobats, creative and colorful costumes, and moments that will make you laugh. There are even interactive moments that keep the audience involved throughout the show. Show tickets start at $59 and should be booked in advance.
Terry Fator: One Man, a Hundred Voices, a Thousand Laughs at the Strat Hotel, Casino, & Tower. Terry may just be the greatest illusionist on the Las Vegas Strip, but you'll never see him perform any magic tricks. He amazes audiences by singing like famous entertainers—from Elvis to Cher—without moving his lips, and that's not all. Along with being a singer and a celebrity impressionist, Fator is a puppeteer. His mouth may not move much during his show, but his hands are always in action, bringing to life his cast of lovable puppet co-stars. Kevin and I have been to see Terry Fator back when he was at the Mirage and he was fantastic… We highly recommend his show. Your entire family will LOVE it!
Jabbawockeez at MGM Grand Las Vegas offers a family-friendly show that has been named “Best Family Show” and “Best All Ages Show” for three years! This show pairs high tech production with eye-catching visual effects to create a music and dance performance that will have you dancing in your seat. This is a VERY popular show. We recommend booking it as soon as you know your travel dates. Prices start at $54 and vary by day, time, and advanced booking. You can secure your tickets at Jabbawockeez.
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at MGM Grand plays Saturday through Wednesday with regular price tickets starting at $69. The 90 minute show presents the story of a set of royal twins each setting out to attain their destiny. The action packed show features a stunning set on a 360-degree rotating stage that even tilts upward during the show. The set makes the audience feel fully immersed in the story. There are even opportunities to see some of the costumes close up before the show. This is a great option for families with tweens and teens. These tickets are in high demand so we recommend booking early. You can even purchase a discounted ticket through the link provided above.
Shin Lim’s show at the Palazzo Theater in The Venetian is a fantastic close up magic show that’s appropriate for audiences of all ages. Shin Lim has the distinction of being a two time winner of AGT and the FISM Champion for close-up card magic. He’s even received praise from some of magic’s greatest including Penn & Teller. His show debuted in 2019 at the Mirage and was so wildly popular that it was moved to the Palazzo theater at the Venetian in October of 2024. You can expect to see captivating illusions, and exciting visual effects. This is another one of the most popular shows in Las Vegas. We recommend booking early at Shin Lim where prices start at $56.
Take Advantage of FREE Things to do with Kids in Las Vegas
Even if you’re visiting Vegas without plans to gamble, it’s easy for costs to add up quickly! Here are just some of the many things to do with kids in Las Vegas that don’t cost a thing:
Watch the Bellagio Fountains dance to the music. The fountain shows run about every 30 minutes after noon on weekends and after 3pm on weekdays. After 8pm, you can see the show at 15 minute intervals all the way until midnight. The sight is entrancing and it will captivate your children.
Many hotels on the Strip have seasonal art displays in their lobbies. You can count on Bellagio, Aria, MGM Grand, and Caesars to have displays that are worth taking time to appreciate. Depending on the time of year, you may even find the artists setting them up or refreshing the theme in one of the displays.
Visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat behind the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino where you’ll find waterfalls, streams, and 15 acres of exotic birds, fish, and flamingos.
Explore Downtown Container Park; it’s just a short walk from Fremont Street. This is an open-air complex that houses all kinds of shops, dining, and attractions that are all built into old, recycled shipping containers. It’s a unique attraction among the free things to do in Vegas with kids.
Catch the Fremont Street Experience where you can see the Viva Vision Light Show on the world’s largest LED Canopy Screen. Shows run about 6-8 minutes long and start at the top of the hour, beginning at 6pm with the last show at 2am. The screens have just undergone a $32 million upgrade to make the experience more vibrant and exciting.
Stroll past the art murals on the streets of Downtown Las Vegas. There are more than 30 vibrant painted murals that were created by well known artists for the Life is Beautiful festival near City Hall. There’s even a 100% solar-powered art mural located on Seventh Street! Capture some photos and enjoy a free art show.
Capture an Instagram worthy photo-op at the iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. This opportunity has been made even more kid-friendly with the addition of a dedicated parking lot and crosswalks to make it safer and more accessible.
Head to the Wynn for their nightly show Lake of Dreams, which features giant puppets, huge robots, 5,500 LED lights, and a 45 foot waterfall. The show can be viewed for free from the North Show Terrace and runs at half hour intervals, beginning at dusk.
Watch the Fall of Atlantis Show located at the Forum Shops in Caesars Palace. It’s an 11 minute show, featuring animatronics, that tells the story of King Atlas. Shows run every hour, on the hour.
Stop by the Aquarium at the newly remodeled Silverton Casino Hotel, located just off the Strip, where you can see mermaids swimming! The free interactive mermaid swims are scheduled throughout the day each Thursday through Sunday. The 117,000 gallon tank is home to thousands of tropical fish. This attraction has been named “Best Free Attraction in Las Vegas”!
Enjoy time at your hotel’s pool. Many of the hotels on the Strip boast some pretty amazing pools with cabanas and food service. This is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and to cool off from the hot desert sun.
Several hotels in town feature some really fun experiences for kids. The Tank Pool at the Golden Nugget in Downtown Las Vegas has a tunnel slide that passes through an aquarium filled with five different species of sharks! The Splash Zone & Pool at Circus Circus Hotel features over an acre of fun and a 50ft slide tower with 3 different slides! There’s even a playground with waterfalls and buckets that spill over at intervals which is great for younger kids.
Know How to Get Around Las Vegas with Kids
Visiting Vegas with kids means knowing how to get around without overdoing it. Here are our best resources for getting everywhere you need to go in Sin City with your kids.
Walking – This is a very popular way to get around in Las Vegas and a sure-fire way to easily get your steps in each day. It’s actually our favorite way to get around when we’re there. While this might be a great option for your teens (or a toddler in a stroller), it’s likely to be rough on younger kids so be sure to set reasonable goals and know when to look for another option.
Las Vegas Monorail – The monorail is a fun experience all on its own but it’s also a useful way to get around the city. It’s convenient because it’s open from 7am until midnight on Monday and from 7am until 2-3am the rest of the week. Trains arrive every 4-8 minutes at a selection of stations down the Strip.
The monorail runs from MGM Grand on one end to the Sahara on the other with stops along the way at Paris/Horseshoe Las Vegas, Caesar’s Palace/Flamingo, The LINQ/Harrah’s, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Single ride tickets are $5.50 or you can purchase 1-7 day unlimited passes (that allow you unlimited travel for the number of days chosen) if you’re going to be in town for a while.
INSIDER TIP: Your monorail ticket could even score you discounted tickets for shows and attractions around town!
Free Transportation Options:
Hotel Shuttles – Many hotels in Vegas offer free shuttle services. Be sure to check with your hotel concierge to determine if your hotel is one of them and how to use the service.
Trams – This is another free way to get around on the Strip. There are a total of two trams (there was a 3rd but the Treasure Island Tram is closed indefinitely following the closure of the Mirage Hotel). Here are the trams that are currently in operation:
Aria Express Tram operates 7 days a week and makes stops at Park MGM, Chrystals, and Bellagio Hotel
Excalibur-Luxor-Mandalay Bay Tram also operates 7 days a week and makes stops at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Luxor Las Vegas, and Excalibur Hotel & Casino.
Buses – There are two bus services that provide service in Las Vegas. Children 5 and under ride for free. You can purchase your ticket on board, through rideRTC, or via a ticket vending machine. Please be aware that you’ll need exact change.
The SDX (Strip and Downtown Express) buses run from 9am to midnight daily. They pass every 15-20 minutes and stop only at selected stops so you can get from place to place a little quicker (without as many stops along the way).
The Deuce buses run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They depart every 15 minutes or so from Downtown (Fremont Street) to Mandalay Bay and stop at almost every resort and hotel along the route. These are the red double-decker buses.
INSIDER TIP: Don’t forget to check the bus schedule and to know whether you’re boarding a north or southbound bus.
Taxis & Ride Shares – Uber and Lyft operate throughout Las Vegas. Costs will vary based on where you’re going and traffic at the time of your ride. We have generally only used ride shares when going between the airport and our hotel or from one end of the Strip to the other for a show.
Drive – If you’re traveling to Vegas by car, you can get around that way. This is a terrific option if you’re staying off the Strip. Just know that you’ll have to pay for parking. If you’re staying on the Strip, most hotels on the Strip offer free parking during your stay. While we have arrived in town with our own (or a rental car) on occasion, it’s not our favorite way to navigate the Strip. Usually, our car stays in the parking garage for the duration of our time in Vegas.
View of Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, along with Planet Hollywood
We were pleasantly surprised by how much our Littles loved Las Vegas. It had never occurred to us to take them until it became a convenient stop on our “Big Trip.” We enjoyed seeing the city through their eyes. Years later, they still talk about their first trip to Las Vegas!
Have you ever been surprised by how much your children have enjoyed a place you didn’t expect would appeal to them? Would you ever try visiting Las Vegas with kids? We hope we’ve inspired you to bring your kids along on all of your adventures and find ways to enjoy them together!
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