61 family-friendly things to do in Las Vegas

Are you visiting Las Vegas with the family in tow? Are you wondering what to do that is age-appropriate, but still fun? Maybe you need to leave the teens alone for a while, and don’t want them to get up to much trouble.

Well, here is a big list of places, activities, and shows that are great for the kids, teens, or whole family. This is just what you need to make your plans, and have a great trip that everyone will enjoy.

12 Museum, “edutainment,” and animal options

• 1. Discovery Children’s Museum.

  Here you will fin an interactive museum covering 7 floors of fun exhibits. Entertaining and learning are combined. Past exhibitions have covered dinosaurs, emergency rescue services, and the science behind modern cities.

  The big attraction for younger children will be the central column that kids can climb through to move from floor to floor. It will keep them entertained, and wear them out.

  This is a great option for kids in Las Vegas, and could easily take two hours depending on how engaged they are with exhibits. Plus, tickets only cost $8, so it won’t break the bank.

• 2. Las Vegas Natural History Museum

  This is a private museum that offers some in-depth exhibits and sections. Located in the downtown, you will find displays covering the natural wildlife of Nevada, dinosaurs, the treasures of Egypt, geology, and more.

  It will not be much different from your local museum, but is still a great place to bond with the family, especially if you prefer education over entertainment.

• 3. Atomic Testing Museum

  Learn all about the history of nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site north of Las Vegas.

  The museum, in collaboration with the Smithsonian, has a wide range of activities that suits all ages. There is a lot of great material here, covering both the somber qualities of nuclear weapons, to the curious culture of the Atomic age.

  It is surprising fun, and of considerable quality. It is also a museum that you won’t find elsewhere, so check it out while you are in town.

• 4. Bodies: The Exhibition

  The Luxor Hotel & Casino has offered several great exhibits, and their current one is a mix of the macabre and the must-see. 13 preserved human bodies and more than 250 organs are on display, providing some truly unique insight into the biology of the everyday human.

  If your kids are not squeamish, they can see how muscles and organs look,, work, and interact. They also get a brief health lesson about what happens if we neglect our bodies.

• 5. The Las Vegas Farm

  North of Las Vegas, there is an animal rescue and sanctuary. A dedicated staff has made a wonderful home for many animals, which has a lovely rural setting. With heart warming stories, a number of volunteers, and donations, they have built something special.

  Operations have expanded into a small market which sells local produce and quaint crafts, offering a different experience from the typical Las Vegas fare. You might find some tasty treats, and chances are it will be healthy.

  Here, your kids can visit with chickens, pigs, cows, horses, bunnies, and goats. Some can be pet and fed, which is great fun.

• 6. The Lion Habitat Ranch

  The Lion Habitat Ranch was created for the care of animals that performed in shows and attractions on the Strip. Open in 1975, they only allowed visitors beginning in 2012.

  This is a kid-friendly and safe environment that offers a truly unique experience here in Las Vegas. There are 36 lions, ostriches, a 3-year-old giraffe, emus, and exotic birds at the ranch, so there are plenty of animals to photograph.

  Depending on donations and admission fees to take care of the animals, the ranch does it best to encourage the support of visitors. Their expenses can run more than $60,000 a month. So, if you have a few extra dollars, we recommend you leaving a small donation. After all, lions have to eat, too.

  Kids under 4 are free, while kids under the age of 14 are free when accompanied by an adult.

• 7. The Neon Museum

  This place helps showcase the history of Las Vegas, and is a must for anyone in love with Sin City. The Neon Museum lets children learn about the history of Las Vegas casinos without stepping foot anywhere close to a slot machine. This two-acre plot of desert is crowded with the old signs and neon lights that have hung above the Strip and Downtown. It offer more than 200 pieces of vintage Vegas, which are a great setting for photos.

  The Neon Museum may not be the most interesting to young children, but might fit kids 10 and older. Admission during the night is a bit more expensive, but much better for taking those Instgram-worthy pictures.

• 8. The Smith Center

  Opened in 2012, the Smith Center became a destinations for art and culture in Las Vegas. The building is a work of art, with a design inspired by the Hoover Dam. It is quite prominent, and easy to identify by the 17-story bell tower.

  Next to the Discovery Children’s Museum, the Smith Center consists of Reynolds Hall (for large events), Troesh Studio Theater and the Cabaret Jazz Theater.

  You will need to plan in advance and check the schedule, but there are many educational programs available, including Camp Broadway – a summer program for kids who have an interest in theater. This might not fit most tourists visiting with their family, but even taking in a kid a friendly show here will do the trick.

• 9. The Springs Preserve

  The Springs Preserve is a great chance for you and your family to step outside typical Las Vegas and enjoy some science, nature, and history in an educational atmosphere.

  The property consists of the Origen Museum, which exhibits some live animals, and the Nevada State Museum. There are 180 acres of nature walks and gardens to enjoys, and even a boomtown.

  A variety of educational experiences are offered at different times, so check the schedule to make the most of your visit.

• 10. Children’s Park at Town Square

  This small park is great for young children. It consists of a hedge maze, a Pop Jet fountain splash pad, a tree house and a bakery playhouse, among other kid’s attractions. It is not much of a destination, but if you need a brief spot in the are to relax, or to plan a picnic, it might be a good option.

• 11. The Pinball Hall of Fame

  Before the latest and greatest computer games, and home consoles, the pinball machine was king. And at the Pinball Hall of Fame, you can have a blast from the past with a selection of 200 pinball and arcade game classics.

  This non-profit museum is filled with aisle after aisle of fully restored pinball machines that go back to the 1950s. There are more recent machines from the 80s and 90s, but the older ones will have all your attention.

  Maybe this is more for the adults, than kids, but you will be able to play some of your favorites, and share them with the next generation.

• 12. The Nevada State Railroad Museum

  Have any kids that are into trains? Well, we have you covered. Nevada State has lots of stories about trains, and to preserve this history, they established the Nevada State Railroad Museum. Located in Southern Nevada, the Railroad Museum is outside of Boulder City. It’s a little bit of a drive, so consider this an all-day affair.

  Visitors to the museum can even take a ride on one of the historic trains. The ride lasts 40 minutes, but provides a classic experience that takes in a lot of the surrounding beauty of Nevada.

Three Las Vegas water parks

Every big resort has their own pool, and some of them are awesome. But there are few actual water parks in Las Vegas, or options that measure up. So, here is the small list of what’s available. But don’t worry, they get the job done on those hot Las Vegas days.

• 1. Cowabunga Bay

  Cowabunga Bay is the largest and most complete waterpark in Las Vegas. Spread across 25 acres, it will keep you and your kids entertained for as long as you want to stay.

  The water park may not be the best at a national level, but it is colorful, well maintained, and clean. There are plenty of things to do, and the prices are not too steep.

  As you would expect, there are many age appropriate areas, fit for young kids, teens, and even adults. Just remember, the Las Vegas sun can be pretty strong, so come with a water resistant sunscreen, sunglasses, and some T-shirts. You don’t want a sunburn.

• 2. Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas

  Wet’n’Wild is another Las Vegas water park which does a great job entertaining teens, youngsters, and adults. With 27 slides and 10 unique attractions, there is plenty to do and see here.

  The Tornado and Canyon Cliffs are some of the better attractions, but most slides will keep your kids happy. Certain rides do require adult supervision, so a parent or guardian should be part of any group.

  We recommend that you check the schedule before coming. Wet’n’Wild only operates 125 days out of the year, so it is possible that the park is closed when you come to visit. The prices depend on date and expected crowds, so coming in the off-season will save you money.

• 3. Mandalay Bay Beach

  Although this isn’t strictly a water park, it is just as good. Enjoy a wave pool and lazy river, with a variety of rides. The sprawling pool area will impress, and even has its own sand beach.

  There are a few other resort pools that come close, but we don’t think they are as friendly to families, or near as good, as this option.

4 Aquariums in Las Vegas

• 1. Shark Reef Aquarium

  There are several places where you can see sharks here in Las Vegas, but the Shark Reef Aquarium is probably the most academic and comprehensive.

  If you appreciate fish, sea creatures, and the mystery of the sea, this will be a great choice. There are plenty of exotic displays, Tropical fish, and even some giant sea turtles, stingrays, and alligators to round out the attraction. Plus, sharks! The aquarium is located near the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, and offers a lot of information to learn about the various types of marine life in the aquarium.

  Kids may like the touch pool where visitors can get close and personal with these creatures.

  Depending on when you visit, and how much you want to spend, you might even have a chance to participate in the feeding.

• 2. Seaquest Interactive Aquarium

  This small aquarium is more intimate and community driven than Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and is a great choice for younger children. It is located in east of the Strip, and is part of a new addition to the renovated Boulevard Mall.

  Exhibits focus on the Amazon rainforest, the deserts of Egypt, and Caribbean islands, offering a range of topics and learning options. Kids can get close to exotic sea creatures, birds, and reptiles – and maybe even feed a shark or two. Swimming with stingrays could be an exciting experience for some, giving your kids some great stories, and better memories.

  This is a great choice for families in Las Vegas, and is something of a hidden gem. You won’t fin crowds, and there is plenty of staff to offer a more personal experience.

• 3. Silverton Aquarium

  If you are out by the Silverton Hotel and Casino, South of the Strip, there is a small free aquarium you can enjoy. We wouldn’t recommend going there just to see the fish, but if you want to hit up the stores, the slots, or buffet, you can stop by and check out the display.

  The aquarium consists of a 117,000-gallon tank, with 4,000 tropical fish and stingrays, plus a few sharks. The simulated reef environment looks good, and there are placards providing some information.

• 4. Siegfried and Roy Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat

  Located at the Mirage Hotel and Casino, this animal sanctuary focuses on dolphins and big cats, which is a bit different from all the sharks found at other aquariums.

  The Dolphin Habitat includes a 2.5 million gallon tank which houses several bottlenose dolphins. The area is surrounded by lush foliage and palms. There are no shows, but trainers interact with the dolphins, and often play together.

  There is an underwater viewing area which lets you watch the dolphins play and interact with one another.

  The Secret Garden is where the variety of big cats are housed. It is possible to get your picture taken with the animals, but it depends on their mood and the crowds. Among the beautiful greenery and waterfalls, you will see panthers, tigers, leopards and lions, which is a wonderful assortment for being in the heart of Las Vegas.

  Not only will the kids have fun watching these animals, but they will also learn about them.

Eight shows the family can enjoy in Las Vegas

• 1. Gregory Popovich’s Comedy Pet Theater

  If your kids love animals, they will love this show. Featuring cats, dogs, birds and other pets, Popovich will show how his furry and feathered friends can do exceptional tricks you thought possible.

  And the heartwarming story behind the show is part of the draw. Gregory’s cast of over thirty pets were rescued and trained to do the coolest animal tricks on the Las Vegas Strip. He gave them a home, and even rehabilitated some of these precious animals.

  This Comedy Pet Theater is fit for all ages, and will even amuse adults.

• 2. Tournament of Kings

  The Excalibur is a famous part of Las Vegas, and though it is starting to show its age, the hotel-castle is still a fairy tale straight from King Arthur’s Camelot.

  Here, you will find the Tournament of Kings, a meal and a show in one. Medieval warriors riding horses will perform, joust, and do battle with swords, shields and swinging chains. Meanwhile, the audience gets to feast on a three-course meal fit for a king. You even get to use your bare hands for total immersion. Kids love it, especially if they enjoy knights and castles. Tickets start at $55.95 including the meal, but check for discounts.

  Children under 3 are free but they must sit in their parent’s lap and share the meal.

• 3. Mystère by Cirque du Soleil

  Mystère is one of several shows by Cirque du Soleil available in Las Vegas. And this one packs a feast for the senses, with emotional scenes and spectacles of human ability.

  For over 20 years, crowds have been entertained with a mix of music, acrobatics, dance, suspense, visual beauty, comedy, and unique takes on various circus acts. There is so much to see, that most in the audience will miss some of what happens. So keep your eyes open.

  Be amazed by trapeze acts, the aerial cube, Chinese poles, bungee, trampoline, and many others. There is plenty for kids and adults to enjoy. And if it is a big hit, you can even get tickets to other shows, like Ka.

• 4. Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil

  Michael Jackson: One is one of the newer shows by Cirque du Soleil. Located at the Mandalay Bay Resort, you can take the tram from the Excalibur for even more entertainment.

  The show is a 90 minute journey featuring 25 songs or more from Michael’s greatest hits. The dance and acts flow seamlessly, and match the mood of each song, while respecting the heart and soul of Michael’s performances.

  Cirque has taken the legendary choreography, style and music of Michael and added given it a unique spin. You will feel like you’re in one of his musicals.

• 5. O by Cirque du Soleil

  This imaginative show centers around a gigantic 1.5-million-gallon pool. Not just a display of dancing and acrobatics, it includes swimming and a changing environment.

  You will find a unique cast of characters that will express a fantastic story through dance. You will see high dives, trapeze acts, synchronized swimming, aerial hoops, and many other performances, both in and above the water stage.

  Kids might have some resistance, at first, but this show will soon have their full attention.

• 6. Jabbawockeez

  Jabbawockeez performed on the first season of America’s Best Dance Crew, and gained the attention of the world. After performing in a couple of places on the Las Vegas Strip, they have a regular show in their new theater at the MGM Grand, JREAMS.

  The Jabbawockeez, wearing their signature white masks, are incredibly energetic, Watch as they display mind blowing synchronized dance moves, set to some great music.

  Their dance routines is are fun and humorous, and they will even interact with their audience. JREAMZ is an amazing show that is sure to please both kids and adults. It will be a big hit with teens, so be prepared for them to emulate some of what they see.

• 7. Mac King Comedy Magic Show

  Admittedly, many of the shows in Las Vegas are not fit for the whole family. But Mac King has made a great cross of fun, humorous, and lighthearted acts that will play for any audience.

  Mac King is a very talented magician, with many awards. He combines a laugh with amazing tricks and sleight-of-hand magic. He even talks with the audience and will make them part of the show.

  Kids are sure to laugh, and the ticket prices are reasonable.

• 8. The Blue Man Group

  The Blue Man Group has become a hallmark of the Las Vegas experience. This bald and blue trio of mimes have performed at the Luxor since 2000, and have practically become an institution.

  During shows, they interact with the audience and blend music, comedy, science and art into an auditory and visual extravaganza. Recently, they have started making pieces of art on stage, and selling them after each show. These are unique souvenirs, and great mementos to bring home with you, but they do cost.

Four great places for the family to eat in Las Vegas

• 1. Sloan’s Homemade Ice Cream

  If you are at the Venetian, and looking for a treat to settle your kids, try Sloan’s. Although their main offering is delightful ice cream treats with an assortment of toppings, they also offer some giant donuts which are sure to impress.

  If you really want to score some points with the family, pick some of these up to surprise them at your room. They even have one straight from the Simpsons.

  The staff is quite friendly, and they will package your purchase up in boxes and a bag. And the prices are quite reasonable.

• 2. The Sugar Factory

  Your family needs to eat, so you might as well go somewhere they will love. Try the Sugar Factory, which has an assortment of super-delicious foods, drinks, and milkshakes.

  Although the King Kong Sundae is probably a little more than you will want, there are plenty of treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth, and give you the energy to conquer the Strip. If you are looking for fun items, get the rainbow sliders. Not only do they make a great picture, but they come with an iconic rubber duck that your kids will love.

• 3. Black Tap

  This wonderful restaurants serves some great food, but your kids will be drawn to the colossal shakes. You won’t even believe these absurd works of art, some of them topped with entire slices of cake.

  If you want to have fun with your kids, this will put a smile on their faces. But make sure to sit inside. The hot Las Vegas sun will melt these faster than you can eat.

• 4. Holsteins

  Rounding out our selection of great milkshakes, Holsteins offers some monster concoctions. It is a bit of a toss-up which of these three restaurants does a better job, so you might just have to try all three.

  But if you are down by the Cosmopolitan, then come here for a quick treat.

  Adults can have theirs alcoholic, while the kids can have them plain.

  We recommend the grasshopper for some chocolate-mint goodness.

Three great family-friendly tours in Las Vegas

• 1. Madame Tussauds

  There are only a few Madame Tussauds locations in the world, and Las Vegas might have the best, featuring some truly iconic American celebrities.

  Open all year long, and located at the Venetian resort, this attraction has lots of room for large-scale exhibits, and displays more than 100 lifelike celebrity wax figures. Get your picture taken with the Rock, Will Smith, Sammy Davis Jr., and Elvis Presley.

  Kids will enjoy Marvel superheroes like The Hulk and Spider-Man. You can even get up-close with Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson, and Rihanna.

  Children age 2 and under are free. 6 years and older can get a wax replica of their hand made, which will be a fun souvenir to take home.

• 2. Ethel M Chocolate Factory

  The factory for Ethel M Chocolates can be a short stop, or an all-day affair. It is located east of the Strip and can be found just as you enter Henderson.

  Built by the Mars family about four decades ago, the facility is famous for the production of gourmet chocolates. Made with high quality ingredients, and still using handcrafted techniques, the chocolates come out tasting much better than the typical store-bought candy bar. You won’t go wrong buying a few gifts to bring home, or eat on the way back.

  The factory recently underwent an impressive upgrade, with additional tasting rooms and kitchens for lessons. You can arrange to enjoy samples, or just check out the free flavors on offer. There is a self-guided tour that takes guests through the factory. You can see the workers in action through large windows, and pretend its like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory.

  Outside, there is a botanical cactus garden which is also worth a look. Consisting of four acres of desert landscape, you will find over 300 species of cacti and succulents. The garden and factory tour are completely free.

• 3. The Auto Collection in Las Vegas

  Some kids love cars. So this collection is sure to impress them. Roam through the showroom, and fantasize about driving any of these amazing cars. Or learn about the history of some truly strange and unique automobiles.

  There are many cars on display, and they frequently have new cars to show. It can be great fun, especially if you are a gear head.

18 family-friendly activities in Las Vegas

• 1. Pole Position Raceway

  Just like the desert off-roading, if speed and excitement are your thing, this is your best option. You even get to avoid the dust.

  Race against your family or friends on high tech electric go karts that blaze down the track. Top speeds approach 45 mph, so this isn’t the little leagues. Your kids will have a blast, and you’ll be able to let out your inner speed demon in a fun and safe setting.

• 2. Top Golf Vegas

  Close to the Strip, this golf venue is excellent if you want to practice your swing, or just relieve some stress. This is a great place to go with the kids, and teens can easily be left here unsupervised without problem.

  Next to the MGM Grand resort, they offer a three-level driving range and a wonderful view of the Las Vegas Strip.

  All skill levels are welcome, and there are even classes if you want to splurge on some expert opinion, but golf lessons will be an additional charge. Still, it might be less than a last minute babysitter. You can even order food and drink to keep up your energy.

• 3. Las Vegas Indoor Sky-diving

  These places can be found across the nation, and yes, here in Las Vegas, too. Experience what it is to skydive without leaving the ground. You can fly inside the Sky Diving Wind tunnel, safe and sound, and get some great pictures as you do aerial acrobatics. Just gear up with a provided suit, goggles, and helmet, and go through some basic safety training.

  Session are in 15 minute increments and there are discounts for repeats, or group rates. Also check online for coupons, since these are often available.

• 

  4. High Roller Observation Wheel

  An immediate landmark in Las Vegas as soon as it was built, the High Roller is a 550 feet tall Ferris wheel. Reaching high above the ground, it is the tallest observation wheel in the world, and located right center of the Strip. The cabins are large enough to fit 40 people, but are seldom that full. Chances are you can slowly rotate through the sky without bother.

  There are discounts for children ages 4-12, while children 3 and under are free. Evening rides are more expensive. Pods take 30 to 40 minutes to transit.

  And before or after you take a ride, you can even stop at the In-n-Out, or one of the other restaurants located on the LINQ Promenade.

• 5. Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.

  Marvel is everywhere, and even the Strip. This museum and interactive experience is great fun for tourists who love the Marvel superheroes. Kids, as well as adults, will get to see the the actual movie costumes and other interesting displays.

  The Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. is a favorite with kids, but is actually quite brief. Depending on how long you look at things, you might even get done in an hour.

• 6. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

  The Bellagio hotel and casino is center of the Strip, marked by the amazing fountain. Inside, just past the main lobby, hides a lovely little spot that everyone should visit when they come to town. The Bellagio Gardens is a free display of art that changes seasonally. The exhibits are built of flowers, and have included storks, fairy tales, and dancing pigs. It is one of the most photographed spots in Las Vegas, and is considered one of the best free attractions you will find on the Strip.

  Each of the displays is made of thousands of plants and flowers, carefully crafted into designs. If you are lucky, you can even come by when they are setting up, and see the magic behind the scenes. Consider this a good family outing in Las Vegas, but keep in mind you will probably be done in under 30 minutes.

• 7. Downtown Container Park

  This small commercial area is a fun and energetic community of restaurants, shops, and bars. It might not be the best option to visit with the kids in tow, but it is more entertaining and open than other parts of Vegas. And everything is made from shipping containers.

  You will find a small playground at the middle of the park, which has a tree house, stairs and slides. This won’t work for teens, but younger children will enjoy it.

  There is also an outdoor area that features movies, games, and a stage for family activities. This is best enjoyed during specific events, so check the calendar for what is on offer.

• 8. Las Vegas Bowling

  Looking for some hometown feel? Want a little slice of America? Well, you don’t always have to go to the fanciest shows and theaters to get your entertainment. Treat yourself to a simple pleasure, and head to any of 11 bowling alleys in Las Vegas.

  Try Texas station Bowling Center which has 60 lanes, or Wildfire Lanes which has 18 lanes. Of go big, with Strike Zone at Sunset Station with 72 lanes, Santa Fe Bowling Center with 60 lanes, or Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall & Bowling Center with 56 lanes. And out in Summerlin, there is Red Rock Lanes Bowling center Las Vegas with 72 Lanes.

  Play a great game with the kids, or let them have their own fun while you have a beer. There are plenty of options, and you are bound to find one that works.

• 9. Big Shot at the Strat

  The Stratosphere was recently renamed the Strat, but still offers some amazing attractions high over the Strip. If you want your kids to scream, take them here where they can enjoy a roller coaster, frightful falls, and even abseiling.

  There are three major rides on top of the tower that are sure to give you the creeps. But be warned. This is for the risk-takers in the family, and the adrenaline junkies.

  Single tickets can be bought, but it makes sense to get the full pass to enjoy these activities as much as you want. Just be aware that the lines can get a little crazy, so try to arrive on less busy days.

• 10. The Adventuredome

  We’re not going to lie. Although we are big fans of MGM properties, we like to avoid the Circus Circus. But if you still want to go, you will find a small theme park here, complete with roller coasters.

  Circus Circus Hotel and Casino has been in Las Vegas since the late 60s, and is one of the older remaining properties. It has provided families fun and entertainment based on bright colors, clowns, and rides. In the modern age, it comes off as a bit creepy, and quite a bit dirty, but is still rated high by many visitors.

  The Adventuredome is a five-acre indoor park with games, roller coasters, bumper cars, and other rides. Families and kids pay per ride or pay for an all-day pass. Check on line for discounts, but do not expect to go here for free.

• 11. Virtual Reality

  Las Vegas is always changing, and the newest addition is virtual reality. You will find plenty of options for some VR experiences all across the city, from the newly built Fantasydome at the LINQ, to the super-cool Level Up lounge at the MGM Grand.

  You can kill zombies, explore strange worlds, or even do a Star Wars experience. And new games and experiences are added constantly.

  Vegas is betting big on VR, so expect to see a lot of new attractions that are sure to make your kids happy.

• 12. Escape Rooms

  Escape rooms are a fad across the country, and Las Vegas is no different. In fact, there are some super cool experiences here in town, some which are not-so-kid-friendly.

  There is a Walking Dead and a Saw themed escape room, but plenty of others which leave out the blood and gore. But all of them are top quality, and will be great fun for the whole family.

• 13. The LINQ

  Hey, this is just a hotel and casino. But now, it is a lot more. They have added a number of gaming options to cater to a younger crowd, and even some older folks nostalgic for the games of decades past.

  A new eSports lounge has been opened where your kids can play some of their favorite games, like Fortnite, or anything else. There are even some holographic games available. And yes, six different VR experiences are on offer.

  The LINQ has put a lot of money into making some modern and electronic attractions, and we think this will be a hit with the kids.

• 14. Eclipse Theaters

  Why not catch a movie while you’re in town? But don’t go to any old theater. The Eclipse Theater combines the silver screen with a catered menu. Enjoy some fine dining while you relax with your family and watch the latest from Marvel. Don’t just go for those soggy nachos from the concession stand, but get a real platter topped with chicken, smoked bacon, steak, or even shrimp. You could even have some amazing sliders.

  And, yes, enjoy some adult beverages if it suits your tastes.

  This is a fun time, and a great way to splurge on your trip.

• 15. Gondola ride at the Venetian

  The Venetian is one of the largest buildings in the world, and already worth visiting for the shops and architecture. But the indoor canal and gondola ride are the best way to turn the wonder of the hotel into a true experience.

  The gondolas go through the canals and are guided by a trained gondolier just like you might find in Venice. He will even sing for you some wonderful Italian songs.

  The tour is 14 minutes, so it won’t keep the kids occupied for too long, or won’t lose their attention too quickly, depending on how they react. And if the kids don’t want to go, it is still a great attraction for parents. They will even sell you a rose for your loved one.

• 16. The Eiffel Tower Experience

  It is hard to visit the Strip without noticing the looming Eiffel Tower over the Paris Hotel and Casino. This replica of the famous landmark is a real favorite for visitors. And if you are looking for a great experience, you can head up to the top for a wonderful and enchanting view of the Strip.

  A glass elevator will take you 460 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, where you will find a small, enclosed observation area. Despite opening in the morning, the best time to go is at night when all the Vegas lights are on. But you may face a crowd.

  This attraction is great for kids, and adults.

• 17. The Mirage Hotel Volcano, Aquarium, and Atrium

  The Mirage Hotel has three free Las Vegas attractions to enjoy. In the front lobby, there is a beautiful 20,000-gallon saltwater aquarium on display. Filled with artificial corals and 450 tropical fish, it is a lovely set-piece and fits perfectly with the tropical theme of the resort.

  Nearby, the Mirage atrium has waterfalls, lagoons, lofty palms, and beautiful plants. There is a short walkway that will feel like you are moving through an exotic paradise. It is great for pictures, or just staring.

  But the best attraction might be the daily volcanic shows. Outside the hotel, there is a volcano which erupts regularly. It is similar to the Bellagio Fountain, but might be a bit more spectacular, if a little less elegant.

• 18. The Big Apple Coaster & Arcade

  At the New York New York Hotel, you will find a fun roller coaster that your kids will love.

  The Big Apple Coaster’s opening drop is 144 feet, reaching speeds of 67 mph. There is a 180-degree twist, which will keep your adrenaline pumping. The ride has recently undergone some renovations, and can now be enjoyed with some virtual reality headgear, adding a new layer to the experience.

  This a fun little diversion, and can be done as a pit stop while you go up or down the Strip.

Three family-friendly Las Vegas stores

• 1. Tastes of The World at the Coca-Cola Store

  North of the MGM Grand, you can find the Coca-Cola Store. Here you will find everything Coca-Cola, including a vast array of Coca-Cola housewares, branded couture, accessories, and other novelty items.

  But it isn’t just about selling you things. The store’s second floor has a beverage bar with a seating area where you can ask for an Around the World Tray. Enjoy a flight of eight Coca-Colas from different countries. They each have a unique taste, from the weird to the wonderful. It’s great fun, and helps improve your perspective on the world.

• 2. M&M’s World

  Like the Coca-Cola Store, this one will attract kids as you walk past along the Strip. A heaven for candy lovers, you will find all types of sweets, and even some new flavors.

  The floors are packed with M&M clothes, mugs, luggage, stuffed animals, office supplies cookware, and a whole lot more. If you are looking for some gifts to bring back with you, this is a good option. They even let you personalize your own gifts, from bags of candies, to engravings.

  It is just a brief stop, so don’t expect to stay here long.

• 3. Hershey’s Chocolate World

  Not to be outdone by Coca-Cola, or M&M’s, this store and attraction is located at the New York New York Hotel and Casino. Consisting of two floors with 13,000 square feet of space, there is an assortment of 800 different types of chocolate and candies on display.

  You will also find a variety of merchandise for sale, just in case you have some room left for souvenirs.

Three Las Vegas zip-lines

• 1. Slotzilla

  There are three zip-lines in Vegas, and Slotzilla is the original. Offering a unique experience, it is centrally located, and a perfect fit between resting by the pool and having a great dinner. Soaring above Fremont Street, Slotzilla takes you along the covered boulevard in either one of two positions, sitting, or prone. We recommend flying like a superhero over pedestrians.

  There are no age restrictions, but your weight should be 60 pounds at least for the higher zip-line and 50 for the lower one.

• 2. Fly LINQ Zip-line

  With this new, adrenaline-fueled attraction at the LINQ in Las Vegas, you can soar down the Fly LINQ zipline. You will hang 12 stories above the LINQ promenade on a zip-line that starts near Las Vegas Boulevard and goes all the way to the High Roller.

  You can position yourself like a superhero, or seated, and even ride with a whole group. As many as ten people can join you at once, perfect for large groups and families.

  Plus, when you stop, you’ll be close to great restaurants, and other fun attractions.

• 3. Voodoo Zip-line

  One of the other options for zip-lines, in Las Vegas, this attraction at the Rio Hotel and Casino is a pure adrenaline rush. Called the Voodoo Zip Line, you start at the Voodoo Lounge on the 51st floor. The attraction will send you soaring through the air, 500 feet off the ground, and at speeds of up to 33 miles per hour. Compared to Slotzilla, this is a bit more extreme, but doesn’t offer the same sort of noteworthiness.

  We do recommend the Voodoo Zip Line among Las Vegas attractions, especially for adrenaline junkies.

Five Las Vegas nature attractions

• 1. Valley of Fire State Park

  If your family is more adventurous, consider leaving the Strip for a day for some fun in the natural setting of Nevada. A trip to the Valley of the fire state park is an hour’s drive northeast of Las Vegas, and offers any family a perfect chance to explore and hike Nevada’s rugged beauty.

  The park is filled with scenic vistas at every turn, and offers a look into the valley before Las Vegas was ever built.

  This is definitely among our list of things to do in Las Vegas.

• 2. Red Rock Canyon

  Red Rock Canyon is only 22 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. It is a beautiful place for families to enjoy the desert of Nevada, and great for taking pictures.

  You might even see some of the wild donkeys that live in the area. Of course, there are also snakes, so be careful.

  And, when you are finished soaking in the natural beauty, hop on over to the Red Rock casino, and refresh yourself at the buffet. Or take in a movie at their cinema.

• 3. ATV Off-Roading through the Desert

  If you are looking for excitement, try going through the Las Vegas desert in an ATV.

  Off-roading in one of these vehicles lets you go deeper and faster into the desert. The only trail will be the one you leave. Rev up, leave some clouds behind you, and do some doughnuts. It can be great fun, show the landscape how it is meant to be seen.

  There are age restrictions here, so drivers must be 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Passengers must be 12 years old.

• 4. Hoover Dam and Colorado River Float

  The Hoover Dam is a wonder of the modern world. Everyone should come and visit once in their life to see the scale of the construction, and learn a little about its history and the importance of energy production.

  There are a number of tours that will take you here, many which include lunch and drinks. It is even possible to enjoy some boat excursions, but those will cost extra.

  If you do this, it will take most of the day, so plan for an early start, and an afternoon return.

• 5. Lake Mead

  Lake Mead is a great place to have fun as a family. Just 24 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, the lake is easy to get to and quite beautiful. Fed by the Colorado River, it is considered the largest reservoir of water in the US, and was formed by the Hoover Dam.

  There is plenty to do, too. Enjoy any of the swimming spots, or charter a boat. There are plenty of tours available, some with included drinks and lunch. Find something that appeals to you, and have at it.