Las Vegas might be known for its dazzling lights and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also packed with fun and family-friendly activities, making it a fantastic destination for kids. Nestled in the heart of Nevada’s Mojave Desert, this city offers more than just casinos and adult entertainment. The best part is that there are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas with kids that ensure an unforgettable experience for families of all sizes.
Whether your little ones are curious explorers, animal lovers or aspiring scientists, Las Vegas has something special to offer. This city is a playground for all ages, with an array of attractions that blend excitement, education and pure fun. It’s a place where every visit can uncover something new and thrilling for the whole family.
Discovery Children’s Museum
Kickstart your Las Vegas adventure with a visit to the Discovery Children’s Museum, where learning meets play. This interactive museum offers nine themed exhibition halls, including Water World, where kids can experiment with water flow, and Fantasy Festival, an imaginative play area. From art and science to engineering and history, this museum turns education into a hands-on adventure that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Take a dive into the deep blue at the Shark Reef Aquarium, located in the Mandalay Bay Resort. Home to more than 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays and sea turtles, this aquarium provides an up-close encounter with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. The highlight is the walk-through tunnel that gives you a 360-degree view of marine life, making you feel like you’re underwater with them.
Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat
For a touch of magic and wildlife, head to Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. This unique attraction allows families to get close to bottlenose dolphins, white tigers and leopards in a beautifully lush environment. The habitat offers educational programs and interactive experiences, like Trainer for a Day, where kids can learn about animal care and conservation.
Adventuredome Theme Park
Located at Circus Circus, the Adventuredome Theme Park is an indoor amusement park filled with rides and attractions for all ages. Whether your kids are thrill-seekers or prefer something more gentle, there’s something here for everyone. From roller coasters and bumper cars to a mini-golf course and arcade games, this five-acre theme park promises hours of family fun, rain or shine.
You can’t bring kids to Vegas without going to the Adventuredome at Circus Circus. The kids go wild with all of the rides and arcade games!
Samantha Erb, Everyday Family Cooking
The High Roller Observation Wheel
Soar above the Strip on the High Roller, the world’s second-tallest observation wheel. Standing at 550 feet tall, the High Roller offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline. Each air-conditioned cabin can hold up to 40 people, making it a perfect group activity. Kids will love spotting famous landmarks from above, and the ride is smooth enough to enjoy, even if you’re not a fan of heights.
Springs Preserve
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Springs Preserve, a 180-acre cultural and historical site dedicated to the natural history of Las Vegas. Families can explore nature trails, botanical gardens and interactive exhibits that teach about desert life and sustainability. The Origen Museum, located within the preserve, features live animal exhibits and interactive displays that make learning about the local ecosystem engaging for kids.
M&M’s World
For a sweet treat, visit M&M’s World, a four-story wonderland dedicated to all things M&M’s. Located on the Strip, this colorful store offers everything from personalized M&M’s to themed merchandise. Kids can watch a 3D movie, create their own candy mix and even meet their favorite M&M’s characters. It’s a sugary paradise that’s sure to bring smiles to the faces of chocolate lovers of all ages.
Las Vegas offers a surprising array of family-friendly activities that cater to kids of all interests. From interactive museums and thrilling theme parks to up-close animal encounters and stunning views, this city proves that it’s much more than just a playground for adults. Whether you’re seeking adventure, education or just some good old-fashioned fun, the city welcomes you with a variety of activities that ensure a memorable family vacation.
Shruthi Baskaran-Makanju is a food and travel writer and a global food systems expert based in Seattle. She has lived in or traveled extensively to over 60 countries, and shares stories and recipes inspired by those travels on Rainy City Life.