Contrary to popular belief, there’s an abundance of things to do in Las Vegas with kids.
While adult vices still command the lion’s share of the attention, resorts have been adding more and more family-friendly attractions that appeal to all ages.
Examples of this include thrill rides, aquariums, museums, movie-themed attractions, virtual reality experiences, and more.
Don’t believe me? Let me prove it!
Activities On The Strip
High Roller Observation Wheel: The featured attraction of LINQ’s Promenade, the High Roller reaches 550 feet tall and offers unreal views of the Las Vegas Valley.
STRAT’s SkyPod: Strat’s observation deck stands tall at 1,149 ft. and boasts 3 rides, XScream, Big Shot, and Insanity which provide excitement by either shooting you straight up or dangling you off the edge of the SkyPod.
FlyLINQ Zipline: FlyLINQ sends riders flying 1,100+ feet from the Strip to the base of the High Roller observation wheel above the Linq promenade below – While the view isn’t as great as SlotZilla, FlyLINQ is about half the cost.
Visit an ICEBAR: Minus5 Icebar at LINQ is made entirely of ice and is kept at a refreshing 23 degrees Fahrenheit – The bar, walls, decor, chairs, tables, and even the cups are all made of ice.
While your kids will enjoy the mocktails, they’ll also enjoy milling about the room to see the unique decor and sculptures – There’s even a scavenger hunt!
Shark Reef Aquarium: Found at Mandalay Bay, the Shark Reef Aquarium features over 200 varieties of sea life including sharks.
The aquarium gives you the opportunity to “Walk the seafloor” in glass tunnels, touch real sea life, and see more sharks than you can count.
Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck Experience: There are few better ways to introduce the family to Vegas than from 46 stories above it all.
I slept on the Eiffel Tower Observation deck for too long – Don’t make the same mistake. The views are unreal.
Helicopter Tours: I recently took a Maverick Helicopter tour of the Strip and it blew me away. While I’ve been to Vegas countless times, this is a view available nowhere else.
See “Postcard From Earth”: Speaking of the Sphere, your kids will dig the new Sphere Experience and “Postcard From Earth” show.
The first part of the experience allows you to interact with humanoid AI robots in the lobby. From there, you take your seats and enjoy “Postcard From Earth”, a space exploration odyssey. I recently saw “Postcard”, and it blew me away (albeit expensive).
Dino Safari at Horseshoe: Walk amongst animatronic dinosaurs and learn about prehistoric Earth at Dino Safari, which I’d describe as an attraction that appeals more to younger kids – Teens and adults may be less impressed.
The Hunger Games Exhibition at MGM Grand: Check out set re-creations, sharpen your archery skills, and make your own rebellion propaganda commercial at The Hunger Games: The Exhibition at MGM Grand.
Pay up for a Better Pool: While some resorts reserve pool access for their guests, others allow non-guests to access theirs provided they rent a cabana or daybed.
I recommend Mandalay Bay (pictured below), which offers a lazy river, a wave pool, and a natural sand beach.
Paris Eiffel Tower Light Show: Every half hour, from sunset to midnight, Paris’ replica Eiffel Tower puts on a dazzling light show thanks to a recent $1.7 million renovation that added synchronized lighting.
Hershey’s Chocolate World at NYNY: Located along NYNY’s Strip facade, Hershey’s World is stocked with a wide-ranging assortment of chocolates, decadent desserts, milkshakes, candy-branded apparel, and more.
Virtual Reality at MGM Grand: Players will choose from a handful of VR game options and complete for 30 minutes. The VR arena is a 2,000-square-foot room that transforms into a virtual world once the headset is on.
CBS Television City: If you need some time off your feet, take the kids (aged 10+) to CBS Television City at MGM Grand.
There, you can spend an hour screening future television episodes from networks like Nickelodeon and providing your feedback in exchange for a book of coupons redeemable in Vegas.
Take a Gondola Ride: Float through the canals of Venice, either indoors or outside along the Strip at Venetian. Whether you decide to take a spin on a gondola or just stroll through the wonderfully themed property, you’ll swear you were transported to Europe.
Canyon Ranch Rock Wall: Found in The Venetian’s Canyon Ranch Spa is a 40-foot tall rock wall that your kids can attempt to conquer. This particular kid-friendly activity is limited to those aged 10 – 17 and parental supervision is required.
Immersive Van Gogh at Crystals: Those who are passionate about the arts will enjoy the 35-minute show at Crystals near Aria that brings 44 of Van Gogh’s paintings to life.
The 360-degree presentation is intended to allow guests into the paintings of the iconic artist and is displayed in a cavernous 500,000 cubic foot room with projector technology.
Immersive Disney at Crystals: A similar attraction to Immersive Van Gogh, above, Immersive Disney drops guests into their favorite Disney movies like Encanto, The Lion King, Peter Pan, and more.
Arte Museum: Nestled between Crystals and Cosmopolitan is the Arte Museum, another immersive attraction that combines art with digital technology.
While I was underwhelmed by Arte Museum at the price point, your kids will likely enjoy creating their own animal which is then featured in one of the displays.
Find a Hidden Pizza Place: Your kids like “Where’s Waldo” right? If so, they’ll love the “insider” feeling of finding the hidden pizza joint at Cosmo dubbed “Secret Pizza”.
The slice will impress too, making my list of the best pizza by the slice joints in Vegas.
Dive-in Movies at Cosmo’s Boulevard Pool: On Monday nights during the summer Cosmopolitan plays popular movies like “Karate Kid” and “Back to the Future” on their Boulevard Pool marquee.
While hotel guests get in for free, access for non-guests is $15.
Ice Skating at Cosmo’s Boulevard Pool: In the winter months, the Boulevard Pool area is transformed to an ice rink with great views of the Strip. You can rent a pair of skates and even enjoy fireside s’mores.
Related: Things to do in Vegas in the Winter.
Museum of Illusions: Nestled along the walkway connecting Cosmopolitan and Crystals, the Museum of Illusions is a collection of optical illusions that range from wall art to displays that incorporate the guests themselves.
I recently stopped by and thought it was a great value for adults and kids both.
Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum: See the collection of movie stars, politicians, and musicians in wax form at Venetian.
In addition to wax figurines, Madame Tussauds has added a Virtual Reality attraction that tasks guests with moving around, finding items, and working with a team.
REAL Bodies at Horseshoe: Educational doesn’t have to be boring – REAL Bodies at Horseshoe is home to over 200 human body specimens which are used to educate visitors on the functions of the human body.
Bodies the Exhibition at Luxor: A nearly identical attraction to the one above at Horseshoe, Bodies the Exhibition can be found on the south end of the Strip at Luxor and features 13 whole-body specimens and 260+ organs.
Play Playground at Luxor: Kids are allowed to explore Play Playground until 5 pm daily when the venue transitions to being adult-only.
Inside, you’ll find big games and puzzles that include a giant version of the board game “Perfection” and the “Ringer Run”, where you’re tasked with walking a ring down a “rambling” metal track without it touching.
See Robots Battle to the Death: See robots like “Witch Doctor”, “Kraken”, and “Whiplash” engage in combat live, every day at Battlebots Destruct-A-Thon at Horseshoe.
The live show is a spinoff of the popular TV series that featured fighting robots. It’s survival of the fittest, and your kids will dig it.
ARCADE at Horseshoe: Located in Horseshoe’s former sportsbook space is an arcade with 80 total games that include classics like pinball and skeeball in addition to more modern offerings.
While it isn’t the biggest arcade in Vegas, ARCADE is certainly the nicest & most modern feeling option.
Enjoy an Extreme Dessert: While there are a few different spots to grab a unique, massive, and absurdly over-the-top dessert in Las Vegas, I recommend stopping into Black Tap at Venetian. While their normal milkshakes cost about $12, you can upgrade to a “CrazyShake” for $5-$7 more.
While there are numerous CrazyShake options, The Cakeshake steals the show, topped with a slice of funfetti cake, whipped cream, and a cherry.
HyperX Esports Arena: Attention video game enthusiasts! Luxor’s Esports arena hosts both scheduled tournaments and pay-by-the-hour gameplay.
Vintage consoles like Atari, Sega, NES, etc. are also available for play.
Flamingo’s Wildlife Habitat: The wildlife habitat behind Flamingo near the pool complex is home to pelicans, ring teal ducks, and a flock of Chilean flamingos.
Titanic Artifact Exhibition: Another educational attraction at Luxor, the Titanic Artifact Exhibit features 250 real artifacts recovered from the wreck site which includes “The Big Piece”, pictured below.
It’s the personal items and the stories behind actual Titanic passengers that make this exhibit hit home.
Discovering King Tut’s Tomb: A new attraction at the Egyptian-themed Luxor, Discovering King Tut’s Tomb allows guests to re-live Howard Carter’s career-defining discovery.
Taste Test at the Coca-Cola Store: Buy the sampler tray of popular sodas from various countries around the world at the Coca-Cola Store. You’ll learn that popular flavors from around the world don’t always agree with our palate.
Circus Circus FREE Circus Acts: The longest-running circus in the world is at Circus Circus and is free to attend and acts run throughout the day, 7 days per week.
Find Your Way Out of an Escape Room: Located in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, The Escape Game can immerse you in a variety of unique 60-minute-long adventures.
Escape room scenarios include escaping from prison, recovering a stolen painting, finding a stash of gold before the mafia does, and even a “Rugrats” themed quest to find lost toys.
Brooklyn Bowl: I know, it’s Vegas and you should probably do something you can’t do at home. However, if you are hankering to hit the lanes, Brooklyn’s 32-lane bowling alley is located along the Linq Promenade and has a swankier vibe than your AMF back home.
Museum of Selfies: Also found along LINQ’s Promenade, the Museum of Selfies offers the opportunity to… take unique selfies (as you likely gathered from the name). Fun selfie opportunities include diving into a gold bath, optical illusions, and an infinity room.
Paradox Museum: Like the Museum of Selfies, the Paradox Museum offers a number of “mind-bending” rooms that make for unique pictures.
The attraction is located in the Showcase Mall near MGM Grand.
Circus Circus Adventuredome: The Adventuredome at Circus Circus features 5 acres of carnival attractions and thrill rides in climate-controlled comfort.
Welcoming to those of all ages, rides range from tame to extreme.
Circus Circus Midway/Arcade: After spending time at Adventuredome, check out Circus Circus’ Midway & Arcade which offers both carnival games and an arcade comprised of over 200 games.
Bellagio Botanical Gardens and Conservatory: A floral display at Bellagio that changes seasonally. Simply stunning. Ensure you take a moment to look up at Chihuly’s “Firori de Como”, a glass floral display in Bellagio’s hotel lobby as well.
Mini Golf: While there are only a few options to play mini-golf in Las Vegas, the ones that exist are aesthetically impressive.
The “Twilight Zone” themed mini-golf course at Horseshoe is a product of Monster Mini Golf and features a blacklight-fueled visual feast for the eyes.
New York New York Roller Coaster: Full transparency, this roller coaster is rough. It’s also a lot of fun, but you may need to enter the concussion protocol after your ride.
Traveling at speeds of up to 67 mph, the ride offers great views of the Strip and I attest to its awesomeness. I’m in pain just thinking about it.
The Big Apple Arcade at New York New York: While New York New York’s arcade isn’t the biggest in Las Vegas, it is packed with a nice variety of modern feeling games and is steps away from the Big Apple Coaster’s boarding area.
Mirage Volcano: Sitting outside Mirage, the iconic volcano erupts several times per night.
Check it out soon, however, as it’ll be demolished soon to make way for a new hotel tower!
Bellagio Fountains: The Fountains of Bellagio are free to see and dance to a selection of songs every 15 – 30 minutes depending on the time of day.
Topgolf: Located behind MGM Grand, Topgolf is a driving range on steroids. The Las Vegas version offers 4 levels of hitting bays with views of the Strip.
Fun Dungeon Arcade at Excalibur: The arcade at Excalibur features over 200 games including the world’s largest Pac-Man, carnival-style midway games, and Smash Air Hockey among others.
4D Experience at Excalibur: Check out a 15-minute video clip that combines 3D animations, state-of-the-art sound/light effects, and in-seat effects. Current clips being offered in 4D include “Happy Feet”, “Yogi Bear”, “Dino Island”, and “Funhouse 4D”.
Tickets to the 4D Experience cost $12 and allow you to watch all 4 short films back to back.
FlyOver Vegas: Explore the western United States from above at FlyOver Vegas, an attraction that suspends guests in a bank of seats over a 52.5-foot spherical screen.
In addition to seat movements that simulate flight, your other senses will be stimulated by simulated wind and the smells of nature.
Princess Diana: A Tribute Exhibition: A newer attraction found at Crystals (near Aria), Princess Diana: A Tribute Exhibition allows guests to view various artifacts from her life.
Admire Themed Properties: Resorts like Luxor, Venetian, Excalibur, and Caesars Palace are a marvel to behold for adults. Imagine them through a child’s eyes.
Pinball Hall of Fame: Boasting a new location right on the Strip, the Pinball Hall of Fame is 10,000 square feet of pinball machines from the 1950s to the 1990s.
While free to enter, you’ll want to bring plenty of quarters.
Activities for Kids Downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street Experience Canopy Light Show: Fremont Street’s $34 million renovation of the canopy is complete and it’s impressive. All 16.4 million overhead pixels sync up to popular music to create a beautiful display nightly.
The Mob Museum: For the history buffs among us, The Mob Museum downtown offers interactive exhibits focused on mob history in Las Vegas and around the country.
The way information is presented is engaging and not at all boring.
Container Park: Just blocks away from the Mob Museum is The Container Park, which is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Of interest to your kids though are the nightly praying mantis fire shows and the treehouse playground inside the complex.
Additionally, The Container Park frequently makes yard games like cornhole, giant checkers, and giant Legos available at no charge near the events stage.
SlotZilla Zipline on Fremont Street: I recently conquered my fear of hights to take on the SlotZilla Zipline.
It’s a gentle ride that offers an adrenaline rush and one heck of a view – Highly recommended.
Explore The Old Mormon Fort: Originally constructed in the mid-1800s, the Old Mormon Fort was the first permanent settlement erected in Las Vegas.
The State Historic Park starts visitors off in an indoor museum, where they learn about the site’s rich history before letting them loose outside to explore.
Uniquely, you’ll have the opportunity to see the oldest still-standing structure in the state of Nevada!
Million Dollar Photo Opp at Binion’s: Binion’s popular photo opp disappeared during the pandemic and was absent for a couple of years until making its triumphant return in 2023.
The revamped display is made of real cash (unlike the one at Horseshoe) and allows you to take a free digital photo, which is then electronically delivered.
Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum: Reserved for kids 14+ years old with an adult chaperone, the Haunted Museum is located near the Pawn Stars Pawn Shop downtown.
Inside, you’ll find a collection of oddities, macabre items, and haunted artifacts that are sure to give you the creeps.
Visit the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop: Visit the set of the hit History Channel show “Pawn Stars” to shop the items you’ve seen bartered for on TV.
While the stars are rarely at the iconic Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, it’s fun to see where it was filmed and shop show-related merch.
Neon Museum: The Neon Museum is home to over 200 vintage neon signs from past incarnations of Las Vegas.
I suggest visiting at night to see The Neon Museum’s “Brilliant! Jackpot” display where projection technology brings the signs back to life.
Kids 17 and under get a discount, while kids 6 and under are free.
The Movie Prop Experience: Found in Neonopolis, The Movie Prop Experience is a museum dedicated to showcasing props from hit movies and TV shows.
The best news, though? Kids get in for free.
The Tank Swimming Pool at Golden Nugget: Not just any pool, The Tank features as its centerpiece a 200,000-gallon shark and fish tank. Better yet, there’s a water slide that goes right through the middle of the shark tank.
Non-guests can swim at GN for a small cover charge on weekdays, but are always able to swing in to take a look.
Toy Shack: Located in Neonopolis downtown Las Vegas, the Toy Shack was made famous by Pawn Stars and is stocked with figurines, model cars, and so much more.
Gene Woods Racing “Drift” Experience: Also located in Neonapolis, this indoor track is specifically designed to test your drifting skills. The go-karts are all-electric meaning no fumes and quick acceleration.
Things For Kids To Do in Las Vegas Away From The Strip
Discovery Children’s Museum: Near the Fremont Street Experience, kids will enjoy exploring a number of engaging exhibits that aim to educate about water power, inventing, experimentation, and more.
Mini Golf at Rio: KISS by Monster Mini Golf is a visual spectacle fueled by blacklights and props that pop scattered throughout the course.
Of course, you’ll be jamming out to a KISS playlist for the duration of your experience.
Cowabunga Canyon: Desert summers are hot – Cool off at Cowabunga Canyon (formerly called Wet’n’Wild) which has pools, slides, and a lazy river.
Cowabunga Bay: Another water attraction, Cowabunga Bay is home to waterslides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. The park is located in Henderson and is worth the 20-25 minute drive from mid-Strip resorts if you’re looking to beat the heat.
Natural History Museum: A Smithsonian Affiliate, the Museum of Natural History has numerous fossils and artifacts on display from around the world.
I recently stopped by and found the museum to be a bit underwhelming albeit inexpensive.
Area15: A short Uber ride from the Strip, Area15 is a feast for the eyes. While tickets to the Area15 campus can be reserved for free, additional rides and activities can be added to your experience for a fee.
I really dig Area15 and have recently experienced Omega Mart, Cluster by Museum Fiasco, Illuminarium, Haley’s Comet, and Wink World.
Indoor Skydiving: You don’t have to jump off a plane, or off the Strat’s SklyPod for a thrill. Instead, enjoy a simulated free fall at Las Vegas Indoor Skydiving. The 120 mph winds generated by their 1,000 horsepower fan will still provide a thrill… just closer to the ground.
Take ’em Out to the Ballgame: The brand spanking new Las Vegas Ballpark is a short drive from resorts on the Strip and is home to the Las Vegas Aviators, a minor league affiliate of the Oakland A’s.
While the park offers traditional stadium seating, I suggest catching the game from the grass berm just over the outfield fence.
Tour Allegiant Stadium: Football fans are sure to enjoy a “behind the scenes” look at the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Allegiant Stadium tours include access to the owner’s box, field, and even the locker rooms.
Springs Preserve: Located 3 miles from downtown Las Vegas, Springs Preserve is a 180-acre attraction that is comprised of botanical gardens, a playground, a splash pad, a butterfly habitat, and several museum attractions that dive into the origins and history of Las Vegas.
My favorite thing to explore at Springs Preserve was Boomtown 1905 (pictured below) which is a recreation of an early 1900s town that you’re able to explore.
Tour a Chocolate Factory: The Ethel M chocolate factory in Henderson, a short drive from the Strip offers self-guided tours of both their chocolate factory and 3-acre cactus garden.
If you’re looking for things to do in Vegas during the winter months, the gardens get dressed up for the holidays!
Clark County Museum: Check out the exhibits at the Clark County Museum including the “Heritage Street” collection of historic buildings that depict life in early Nevada. Even better, the Museum is a cheap thing to do with kids priced at a mere $2 for adults and $1 for kids.
I recently visited and was blown away- It’s awesome.
Rex Center: While more popular with locals than tourists, the Rex Center is a short distance from the Strip (behind Wynn) and offers mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, rock climbing, and axe throwing.
Dig This: An option only for kids 13 years old and up, Dig This is unique and sure to create lifelong memories. The desert is your canvas to operate heavy equipment like bulldozers and excavators. You’ll dig trenches, push around boulders, stack tires, and roll over rough terrain. Don’t know how to operate heavy equipment? No problem, instructors are on hand to help!
Pole Position: Indoor go-karts just off the Strip. No need to say more. It’s a blast. Kids do need to be over 48″ tall to participate as a driver, however.
See Silverton’s Mermaids: Watch real mermaids swim in a 117,000-gallon fish tank at Silverton daily. An all-ages show, this is one of the most unique things for kids to do in Vegas.
Get exact mermaid showtimes, here.
Hoover Dam: Visiting the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas is a must. While it was built nearly 100 years ago, the Dam still “wows”. While you can explore the exterior of the Dam for free, I suggest paying for a guided tour that’ll take you inside the modern marvel.
Explore the Outdoors: Not far from Las Vegas are a number of outdoorsy day trip options with stunning scenery including Red Rock Canyon, Death Valley, Lake Mead, Valley of Fire, Zion National Park, and the Grand Canyon.
See a Ghost Town: Explore the ruins of St. Thomas, NV, a ghost town that has been submerged under Lake Mead (under 70 ft. of water!), until recently.
I recently made the 1.5-hour drive out to the site, which is in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and found it to be eerie and fascinating!
4 Wheeler Excursion: While the majority of ATV tours in Las Vegas ban youngsters, All Above Las Vegas ATV Tours allows those who are 6 years old and up to participate. Uniquely, they offer both 90cc and 125cc ATV options which are more manageable.
Flightlinez Canon Zipline: Located about a half-hour from resorts on the Strip, this outdoor attraction dwarfs zipline options available in Vegas. Flightlinez sends riders flying at speeds of nearly 60 MPH over a distance of 8,000 feet. The scenery is pretty spectacular as well with views of Bootleg Canyon, Lake Mead, and the broader desert landscape. Note that you must weigh between 75 and 250 lbs. to participate.
Gene Woods Racing Experience: Test your go-kart skills going head to head on a half-mile outdoor track with the Las Vegas Strip in the background.
Movie Theaters: While no Strip resorts have one, a number of casinos off the Strip offer movie theaters which make for a solid activity for kids while parents hit the tables.
Related: Newest Things To Do in Las Vegas.
Kid-Friendly Shows
While I mention a few popular options below, I’ve also put together a full breakdown of kid-friendly shows in Vegas which goes more in-depth.
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater: For animal lovers, this performance incorporates cats, dogs, birds, and other animals into a comedy performance.
I recently saw Comedy Pet Theater and found it to be a great value – Cuteness overload.
Potted Potter at Horseshoe: Potted Potter, at Horseshoe, is a hilarious 70-minute parody that takes you through all 7 books.
Cirque du Soleil: Cirque shows are the creme of the crop in Las Vegas, featuring daring acrobatics, feats of strength, and stunning visuals.
Magic Acts: Magicians such as Mat Franco at Linq, Penn and Teller at Rio, or Mac King at Excalibur keep it clean and represent a great option for families.
Tournament of Kings at Excalibur: A 3-course dinner show that immerses you into the Middle Ages. Your family will feast as you witness horse-mounted knights defend their honor.
iLuminate at STRAT: Unlike traditional choreographed dance shows, the dancers of iLuminate wear LED illuminated suites, creating a pretty unique visual.
Look. “Sin City” has been and always will be an adult paradise. With that being said, there are more kid-friendly activities in Las vegas than ever.
Related: 90+ FREE things to do and Kid-friendly resorts on the Strip!
Feature Image Credit: ©neilld/123RF.COM
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.