Are you looking for fun things to do in Las Vegas with kids? We’ve been there. We visited Las Vegas with our kids in April 2023, and I wasn’t sure it was a good idea.
Isn’t Las Vegas the city of vices? Doesn’t seem so kid-friendly. That being said, while it’s not the most family-friendly place to visit, there are surprisingly a LOT of fun things to do with the kids. Believe it or not, there is far more to explore in Las Vegas than just gambling.
In this article, I’m giving you the:
- best unique activities for families in Las Vegas, mostly off the strip,
- ideas for FREE things to do
- some popular and iconic attractions worth a visit on the strip
- some hidden gems for outdoor-loving families.
Be warned though: this is not your typical TOP 10 attractions in Las Vegas for kids. You’ll find unique and really fun things to do in Vegas (and around… because most of the fun for families is off the Strip). We’ve done them all.
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1. Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a fun place for families. You can take a free tour of the chocolate factory. There are also some tasting options available. It was fun to look at the chocolate production process before testing some yummy chocolate.
Then, you can explore the cactus garden. It has over 300 species of cactus and desert plants. It’s a nice little walk through the garden.
Half the plants are cacti and succulents largely native to the American Southwest, and the rest are desert trees and shrubs from the Southwestern United States, Australia, and South America.
💡 PRO-TIP – The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is located in Henderson, 11 miles (18 km) from the Strip. You’ll need to have a car to visit this place.
2. Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
For a relaxing stroll, check out the Henderson Bird Preserve. It’s known as Paradise Garden. It’s an 8-acre botanical wonderland filled with flowers, trees, and pathways.
It’s a great place to escape the craziness of the Las Vegas Strip.
Kids can explore the area and look for wildlife like turtles and birds. We walked on the trail around the pond and looked at some of the birds. It was a fun time
💡 PRO-TIP – The Henderson Bird Preserve is located in Henderson, 13 miles (21 km) from the Strip. You’ll need to have a car to visit this place.
3 . The Welcome to Las Vegas Sign
The iconic “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign is a popular photo spot for tourists, and it’s completely free to visit. It’s located South of Las Vegas Boulevard, past the Mandalay Bay Hotel, and just before the Tahiti Village Resort.
Kids will love posing in front of the sign and getting their pictures taken.
Be warned, though: It will probably be busy. There was a long line when we got there. My husband doesn’t like waiting in line to get a picture (he simply refused). So this is what our family picture looked like 👇
4. Container Park
The Container Park is a unique shopping and dining destination made entirely out of shipping containers. There’s a really cool kids’ playground with a treehouse and a giant slide for kids to play on.
There are also free live entertainment and events. My boys also loved playing with some of the outdoor lawn games.
Container Park is located in Old Vegas. They are a parking lot in front of the park. Or you can also take the Hop-on Hop-off bus tour from the Strip.
5. Seven Magic Mountains
If you’re in Las Vegas and looking for a one-of-a-kind, vibrant outdoor experience, don’t miss out on the Seven Magic Mountains.
Located close to Interstate 15, this art installation features seven brightly colored boulders stacked whimsically high. It’s a striking and memorable sight against the backdrop of the Nevada desert.
And the best part is that it’s free for everyone. Seven Magic Mountains is the perfect place for snapping photos. It’s especially peaceful on weekday mornings or late evenings when you can see a breathtaking sunset.
We visited during the weekend mid-day and it was HOT and super busy. I wasn’t expecting that.
💡 PRO-TIP – The Seven Magic Mountains are located near Interstate 15 toward California, 22 miles (35 km) from the Strip. You’ll need to have a car to visit this place. Or you can book a guided tour.
6. The Bellagio Fountains
This is the first attraction on my list that is actually on the Las Vegas strip and it’s one of the most memorable moments I have from your visit to Las Vegas.
The Bellagio Fountains are 100% a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Las Vegas, and they’re completely free. Kids will be amazed by the choreographed water show set to music.
The fountain show display is every 30 minutes from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM and every 15 minutes from 7:00 PM to midnight.
With the beautiful music and the water dancing around us, I almost teared up. It is really moving and beautiful to see. We went more than once during our visit to Vegas and stayed there for a little while each time.
7. High Roller Las Vegas
The High Roller is a 550-foot-tall (167.6 meters) observation wheel. It’s currently the world’s tallest observation wheel. Plus, it offers one of the best views of the Las Vegas strip.
Rides on the High Roller typically last around 30 minutes. You’ll have a full 360-degree panoramic view over Las Vegas and the strip.
While the view is pretty from the top, it turns really slow and honestly, it’s kind of boring. 🫣
I would not pay for the High Roller. We had the GoCity All inclusive pass, so they did it, but I would have been disappointed to pay.
8. Bellagio Chocolate Fountain
If you love chocolate, you’ve got to see the Bellagio Chocolate Fountain. It’s like a dream come true for chocolate fans! This fountain is one of the tallest chocolate fountains in the world.
You’ll find it inside the Bellagio Hotel, and it’s a real treat to watch. The chocolate flows smoothly from one level to another.
You can purchase chocolate at the Bellagio Patisserie. Their macarons are also delicious.
9. Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Right in the Bellagio Hotel, there’s a beautiful place called the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This place is like a magical garden that changes with the seasons.
Every few months, they make the garden look different, using flowers, plants, and trees. It’s always something new and exciting! The garden is full of bright colors and amazing smells.
It’s a peaceful spot to walk around and enjoy nature right in the middle of Las Vegas. My boys and I loved seeing the different flowers and plants and walking under the little passage of love.
It’s a great place to relax and take some pretty pictures.
10. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
Families with children of most ages will love Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. This beloved museum features incredibly lifelike wax figures of famous pop culture stars, athletes, and historical figures. Get up close and personal with incredible replicas of your favorite characters, take selfies with them, and even participate in fun interactive games.
I visited Madame Tussauds Las Vegas alone with my 4-year-old, and I think he was too young. I loved the visit because I knew most of the people exhibited, but not my son. He did enjoy seeing the Hulk and a few of his favorite superheroes at the Marvel exhibit.
I would recommend to visit with older kids, not toddlers.
»» Check price and availabilities for Madame Tussauds Las Vegas ««
11. Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck
This was a special moment for my oldest son and I since we were living in Paris when I had him.
In Las Vegas, you can visit a special version of the famous Eiffel Tower, right at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel. This Eiffel Tower isn’t as big as the one in France, but it’s still really tall and amazing to see.
You can go up to the top of the tower. From there, you can see a fantastic view of the whole city. It’s especially beautiful at night when all Las Vegas lights shine.
12. Red Rock Canyon
For nature lovers, Red Rock Canyon is an escape you won’t want to miss. Located just a short drive away from the city, Red Rock Canyon offers incredible hikes for kids and stunning views of the desert horizon.
Hikers of all levels are welcome here, making it a great choice for getting the whole family together. You’ll need a reservation to get in the national area, but it’s easy to get online.
Other Fun Things to Do in Las Vegas with Kids (That We Haven’t Tested Yet)
13. Discovery Children’s Museum
Families in Southern Nevada can explore the Discovery Children’s Museum, formerly known as Lied Discovery Children’s Museum. Here, children can interact with traveling exhibits and take part in ongoing science, history, arts, and health programs. This is the perfect spot to learn and have fun!
14. Cowabunga Bay
Explore the 23-acre Cowabunga Bay for some wet and wild thrills. This waterpark features more than 20 water slides, pools, and activities, including an extreme X-treme Waterpark. After a day of adventure, refuel with snacks and savory beverages.
15. Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel. It’s located at the border of Nevada and Arizona. It’s a great place for kids to learn about history, science, and engineering while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
16. The Las Vegas Farm
Tucked away in the north of Las Vegas, The Las Vegas Farm is a living, breathing animal sanctuary. Pigs, horses, cows, chickens, bunnies, and goats populate the landscape, making it easy to pet and get up close with your favorite animals. Put this on your list of local must-sees!
17. Lion Habitat Ranch
Just a 20-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip, the Lion Habitat Ranch is a non-profit sanctuary. Guests can feed and interact with lions, sign up for behind-the-scenes tours, and even plan a meal among the friendly animals.
18. Springs Preserve
Just west of downtown lies a desert oasis – the Springs Preserve. This family-friendly attraction in Las Vegas is a must-see, featuring a variety of animal species, cacti and succulents, and a narrated train ride.
During special events throughout the year, keep an eye out for movie nights and unique opportunities to experience this one-of-a-kind Las Vegas gem.
19. Silverton Aquarium and Mermaid Show
Located just 10-15 minutes off the Strip, Silverton Aquarium and Mermaid Show is one of the top attractions for toddlers. Kids can watch real mermaids swim in a giant aquarium and they can even blow bubble kisses and take photos with them – all for free! Visit their website for the full mermaid show schedule.
The Mermaid Show is one of the most kid-friendly shows in Las Vegas.
20. The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo
The Flamingo Hotel is home to a free Wildlife Habitat, where kids can see pink flamingos, exotic birds, and turtles. There’s also a koi pond, waterfall, and lush foliage to explore.
The wildlife habitat is open all day, but you can join a Keeper talk at 8:30am and 2:00pm every day to learn more about our wildlife habitat.
21. The Volcano at the Mirage
The Mirage Hotel offers a free outdoor show featuring a volcanic eruption set to music and lighting effects. Kids will love the fiery display and the chance to see a volcano up close.
The Volcano fires on the hour at 7pm, 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm. It may vary depending on the weather and winds.
22. Stratosphere Tower
The Stratosphere Tower is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States and the second-tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere, after the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada. It stands at a height of 1,149 feet (350 meters).
It’s located at The STRAT hotel. The tickets include access to both indoor and outdoor observation decks.
23. Adventure Dome Theme Park
If your family loves roller coasters, go to the Adventure Dome Theme Park located inside Circus Circus. This amusement park features plenty of thrilling rides and attractions, like the El Loco roller coaster and the Canyon Blaster. Plus, most rides are suitable for all age groups. It’s not Disneyland, but it’s still a lot of fun for the kids.
24. The Shark Reef Aquarium
If you’re looking for a unique educational experience, look no further than The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. Kids can learn about marine life worldwide in this full-scale aquarium and even view some of the rare species onsite. Keep a lookout for the crocodiles, rare sharks, and exotic fishes during your visit
GETTING READY FOR YOUR LAS VEGAS TRIP?
✈️ BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS: Find cheap flights to Las Vegas International Airport (LAS) using Google Flights or Skyscanner.
🚗 RENT YOUR CAR: You can rent a car directly from Las Vegas Airport (LAS) or wait until you are in town. I recommend you compare pricing on DiscoverCars. You can also rent a campervan from Escape Campervans in Las Vegas. Read our Escape Campervans review and DiscoverCars review.
Do you need a car in Las Vegas?
You don’t necessarily need a car in Las Vegas if you plan to stay around the Strip. But you might want to rent a car to explore the surroundings, including the Hoover Dam, the Valley of Fire, or the Grand Canyon.
🛏️ BOOK YOUR HOTEL: Booking.com is a great search engine for hotels in Las Vegas and the surrounding area. You can look at: Tahiti Village Resort & Spa, Excalibur or Mandalay Bay. Read are detailed article on the best hotels with a pool in Las Vegas.
🎟️ Book your Las Vegas tours: Viator and Get Your Guide are two great websites for finding fun tours in and around Las Vegas. We used the GoCity attraction pass on our visit. Read our GoCity review here.
F.A.Q Things to do in Las Vegas with kids
Is Las Vegas fun for families?
Yes, Las Vegas is fun for families and there is so much to do other than gambling. Families will love the pools and waterparks in many Las Vegas resort hotels. Kids will also love the kids’ shoes such as the Mermaid show, the aquarium and the fountain shows.
Can kids go to Las Vegas?
Yes. Kids can go to Las Vegas. There are lots of kid-friendly things to do in Las Vegas with kids, from themed parks to playgrounds and arcades. It’s important to note that kids are not allowed in casinos.
Is Vegas kid-friendly?
Yes. Vegas is kid-friendly. While Las Vegas is primarily known for its casinos, nightlife, and adult-oriented entertainment, the city is making significant efforts to promote family-friendly attractions and activities. Several hotels on the Las Vegas Strip offer amenities specifically geared toward families, such as kid-friendly pools, arcades, and entertainment shows. There are also many family-friendly attractions in and around Las Vegas.
Final thoughts: Fun things to do in Las Vegas with kids
Las Vegas does not have to be all about gambling and neon lights – there is a wealth of family-friendly activities for all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to interactive museums, every explorer can find something to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Whether you’re a local or a traveler, use this guide to discover the unique and authentic experiences you can only find in Las Vegas.
✍️ A special thank you to Shannon from Three Days in Vegas for the help on this article.
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Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.