Las Vegas, often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment suited for adults, surprisingly boasts some of the best family activities in the United States. The city is brimming with attractions and events that cater to all ages, making it a fantastic destination for families.
From thrilling theme parks to educational museums, Las Vegas also delivers a diverse mix of activities for kids. Whether your family loves the outdoors or prefers awe-inspiring shows and interactive exhibits, this city ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Outdoor Adventures in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a gateway to a range of thrilling outdoor activities that cater to families seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
For families seeking outdoor adventure, Red Rock Canyon is the place for some of the best family activities in Las Vegas. The area is known for its accessible hiking trails that are perfect for families. These trails range from easy to moderate, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or experience, can enjoy the stunning red sandstone landscape and diverse wildlife.
Families can also take a scenic drive through the 13-mile loop, which offers breathtaking views and several picnic spots for a relaxing day out.
Springs Preserve
Moving a bit closer to the city, Springs Preserve is a hub of family-friendly activities in Las Vegas. This cultural institution is located within 180 acres, featuring botanical gardens and numerous nature trails that are both beautiful and educational.
The preserve also offers interactive exhibits that delve into the history and ecology of the region, making it a perfect spot for curious minds looking to learn and explore.
Floyd Lamb Park
Floyd Lamb Park also offers some of the best activities for kids in Las Vegas. This historic park is an oasis in the desert, offering green spaces for picnicking and trails for easy hikes. For those interested in a bit of local history, the park’s Tule Springs are a major highlight.
Additionally, children will love the playgrounds scattered throughout the park. The whole family can enjoy fishing in one of the four stocked ponds, making it an ideal location for a serene family day out.
Educational and Cultural Activities
Las Vegas shines not just with neon lights but also through enriching educational experiences that are perfect for families.
Discovery Children’s Museum
The Discovery Children’s Museum is a hub of kid-friendly activities in Las Vegas, with three floors of hands-on exhibits designed to ignite curiosity and foster discovery among young minds. From the towering climbs of ‘The Summit’ to the imaginative realms in ‘Fantasy Festival,’ each exhibit is crafted to blend fun with educational experiences.
Whether exploring the principles of flight in the ‘Patents Pending’ zone or diving into the watery wonders of ‘Water World,’ the museum offers diverse interactive opportunities for kids of all ages.
Las Vegas Natural History Museum
Dive deep into the prehistoric past at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, where children can marvel at lifelike dinosaurs, wander through an ancient Egyptian gallery, and discover diverse marine life. This museum provides a fascinating journey through time, making it a thrilling educational outing that both kids and parents will appreciate.
Nevada State Museum
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Nevada at the Nevada State Museum. This venue offers a profound look into the past, from its geological formations and indigenous cultures to the more contemporary history of Las Vegas itself. The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated to provide educational insights into the state’s development and cultural diversity.
Entertainment and Shows
Las Vegas also offers a spectacular range of family-friendly shows that captivate audiences of all ages. Here’s a highlight of some of the best family activities in Las Vegas that promise to deliver entertainment and memorable experiences.
Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil is synonymous with Las Vegas entertainment. It is known for its mesmerizing performances that blend circus arts with street entertainment.
One of its hallmark shows, Mystère, is celebrated for its family-friendly appeal, featuring an exhilarating blend of dramatic circus skills, colorful costumes, and vibrant music. This show, staged at Treasure Island, is particularly popular among families for its engaging and whimsical atmosphere.
Tournament of Kings at Excalibur
For a dive into medieval times, complete with jousting, sword fights, and historical pageantry, the Tournament of Kings at Excalibur offers a dinner show that’s perfect for a family night out. This engaging performance includes a feast served medieval-style (no silverware!) while knights battle in the arena, making it a thrilling experience that combines dining with live action.
Popovich Comedy Pet Theater
At the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, located within Planet Hollywood, audiences of all ages can enjoy a unique blend of comedy and juggling acts performed by a cast of talented house pets.
This show is a delightful choice for families, featuring cats, dogs, and other animals that perform a variety of stunts and tricks, making it a heartwarming and humorous outing that is sure to entertain both children and adults alike.
Theme Parks and Attractions
Various children’s activities in Las Vegas are perfect for families looking for excitement and interactive experiences. Here are some top picks for theme parks and attractions in the city:
Adventuredome Theme Park
Located at the Circus Circus Hotel, the Adventuredome Theme Park is a five-acre indoor amusement park suitable for all ages. It features a range of rides, from thrilling roller coasters like the Canyon Blaster and El Loco to kid-friendly attractions such as mini golf and arcade games. The park is climate-controlled, making it a perfect year-round destination for family fun.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
The Shark Reef Aquarium is not just about observing but about engaging with marine life through its interactive exhibits. Housing over 2,000 sea creatures, including sharks, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, piranhas, and even a Komodo dragon, the aquarium is designed to educate as well as entertain.
High Roller Observation Wheel
Elevating 550 feet above Las Vegas’ bustling center, the High Roller Observation Wheel offers an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama of both the Las Vegas Valley and the Strip. With each full rotation lasting approximately 30 minutes, guests have ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the sweeping cityscapes. Ideal for witnessing the city’s dynamic lights, the High Roller provides a unique vantage point that becomes particularly magical after dusk.
Unique Las Vegas Experiences
Las Vegas offers some truly unique attractions that provide memorable experiences for visitors. Here are three destinations that shouldn’t be missed:
Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden
Just a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, the Ethel M Chocolate Factory offers a delightful experience for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can indulge in chocolate tastings, explore the chocolate production process through self-guided factory tours, and wander through the stunning 3-acre Botanical Cactus Garden.
This garden is Nevada’s largest and showcases over 300 species of plants, making it a beautiful and educational stop for families.
The Neon Museum
Visit The Neon Museum and immerse yourself in the luminescent history of Las Vegas through its iconic neon signs. The museum offers guided tours that detail the stories behind the historic signs from old casinos and other businesses. This venue is perfect for families looking to add a dash of culture and history to their visit, illuminating the city’s colorful legacy.
Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
An oasis on the Las Vegas Strip, the Bellagio Conservatory features seasonal displays that transform the space into a stunning exhibit of horticultural craftsmanship. Each season brings a new theme, crafted with thousands of flowers, trees, and plants. It’s a breathtaking natural retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, ideal for visitors of all ages looking to enjoy calmness and beauty.
Family-Friendly Dining Options in Las Vegas
Las Vegas offers diverse dining experiences that cater to families with children, providing fun, engaging, and delicious meal options.
Rainforest Café
Located on the Las Vegas Strip, Rainforest Cafe offers a unique dining experience with a jungle theme, complete with animatronic animals and exotic decorations that mimic a tropical rainforest.
The menu features a wide variety of American fare, making it a hit for both kids and adults. The engaging atmosphere, combined with a family-friendly menu, ensures a memorable dining experience for all ages.
Buddy V’s Ristorante
Buddy V’s Ristorante is the brainchild of Buddy Valastro, star of the “Cake Boss” TV show. Situated in The Venetian, it offers a comfortable Italian dining experience with dishes that appeal to the whole family. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and welcoming, ideal for family dinners where everyone can enjoy classic Italian meals in a relaxed setting.
Hash House A Go Go
Known for its creative menu and large portions, Hash House A Go Go serves up twisted farm food that’s perfect for family dining. Located in several spots around Las Vegas, including The LINQ and Plaza Hotel, it offers a vast array of unique and hearty meals. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, which is great for families looking to unwind and enjoy a hearty meal together.
Seasonal and Annual Events
Las Vegas transforms into a winter wonderland with various seasonal events. Here’s a look at some of the festive highlights that rank among the best family activities in Las Vegas.</p
Las Vegas Christmas Town
A true holiday spectacle, Las Vegas Christmas Town at Wet’n’Wild offers an array of attractions, including:
- Over 2 million twinkling lights
- The Polar Express train ride
- A 100-foot sledding hill
Las Vegas Christmas Town is a magical place for families, open daily from November 24 through December 31, except on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The event promises festive fun with activities like ice skating, visits with Santa, and much more.
Life is Beautiful Festival
Typically held in September, the Life is Beautiful Festival is not just a music event but a celebration of art, food, and family-friendly activities. It transforms downtown Las Vegas into an interactive art gallery and concert venue featuring popular bands, inspirational speakers, gourmet food trucks, and engaging workshops.
Fourth of July Celebrations
The Fourth of July in Las Vegas is marked by spectacular fireworks displays and festivities throughout the city. From rooftop parties to themed events in various hotels and venues, the city offers numerous family-friendly ways to celebrate America’s Independence Day.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Exploring outside Las Vegas offers enriching experiences. Here are some must-visit destinations that offer some of the best kid activities in Las Vegas:
Hoover Dam
A marvel of engineering, the Hoover Dam offers guided tours that dive into the dam’s construction and operations. The tours provide access to the power plant and passageways within the dam, alongside expansive views from the observation deck. These educational exhibits explain the hydroelectric power production and the dam’s historical significance.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Adjacent to Hoover Dam, Lake Mead offers a plethora of water activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. As America’s largest reservoir, Lake Mead is perfect for families looking to enjoy water sports or simply relax by the water.
Valley of Fire State Park
About an hour from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest state park, known for its stunning red sandstone formations and 2,000-year-old petroglyphs. The park offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to explore these unique geological features in a family-friendly setting.
Discover More With Muscle Movers
Las Vegas brims with opportunities for fun and learning, making it a prime destination for families. Whether you’re exploring the interactive museums, enjoying a show, or adventuring through the spectacular parks and nearby natural wonders, Las Vegas offers a diverse range of family activities.
As you plan your move or visit to this vibrant city, remember that Muscle Movers LLC Las Vegas is here to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible. We’re not just about moving boxes but helping you and your family start new adventures with ease and confidence. So, dive into the excitement, and let us handle the details of your move to Las Vegas. Explore, discover, and experience everything Las Vegas has to offer!