Las Vegas, known for its dazzling lights and vibrant casino entertainment also offers numerous experiences perfect for both families and luxury travelers. Here's your ultimate guide to making the most of a family-friendly vacation in 2024 - Yes - going beyond casinos and nightlife.! Read along.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips
Optimal Seasons for Your Trip:
Spring (March to May): Enjoy mild temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures.
Fall (September to November): Experience pleasant weather for exploring the city.
Winter (December to February): A festive time with cooler temperatures, perfect for indoor attractions.
Summer (June to August): Great for poolside fun, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F.
Dressing for Las Vegas:
Daytime: Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes.
Evening: Smart casual attire for dining and shows.
Top Family Attractions in Las Vegas
Pose with your favorite stars at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas and then journey down the Grand Canal on an outdoor gondola ride. Choose to enjoy both activities consecutively on one day, or spread them out over the course of your stay in Sin City.
The Adventuredome at Circus Circus is a five-acre indoor amusement park featuring roller coasters, arcade games, and a carnival atmosphere.
Explore over 2,000 animals, including sharks, giant rays, and a Komodo dragon at Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Enjoy stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip from this 550-foot tall High Roller Observation Wheel at The LINQ
Home to beautiful Chilean flamingos, swans, and koi fish, offering a serene escape from the bustling Strip is the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Las Vegas!
Visit the Bellagio Fountains and Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the water shows set to music at the Bellagio Fountains. The Conservatory features rotating seasonal displays of flowers and art installations, celebrating the essence of each season with themed exhibitions.
Some other ideas are
Spectacular Shows and Entertainment
Las Vegas is a hub for world-class entertainment. Here are some must-see shows (many family-friendly, not all)
"O" at Bellagio: This aquatic-themed Cirque du Soleil show combines breathtaking synchronized swimming and acrobatics
"KA" at MGM Grand: Known for its dramatic storytelling and innovative stage design, "KA" features martial arts, acrobatics, and elaborate puppetry
"Mystère" at Treasure Island: A classic Cirque du Soleil show, "Mystère" blends powerful athleticism with high-energy acrobatics and imaginative imagery
"Michael Jackson ONE" at Mandalay Bay: A homage to the King of Pop, this show fuses his iconic music and dance with Cirque's unique creativity
David Copperfield at MGM Grand: World-renowned magician David Copperfield brings his legendary illusions to Las Vegas
Blue Man Group at Luxor Hotel and Casino: Known for its unique blend of music, comedy, and multimedia theatrics, this show offers a fun and interactive experience for all ages
Sphere Shows and Concerts: A new attraction in Las Vegas, the Sphere hosts concerts and shows in a state-of-the-art venue with an immersive sound and visual experience. Check their schedule for Post Card from Earth
Tickets:
Where to Buy: Purchase tickets through official websites like Ticketmaster, Stub Hub, show venues, or concierge services at your hotel. Links above take you to the booking site as well.
When to Book: For popular shows, book tickets at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Celebrity Chef Dining and Fine Dining
Las Vegas boasts an impressive lineup of celebrity chef restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments, offering diverse and exquisite dining experiences:
Celebrity Chef Restaurants
Amalfi by Bobby Flay: Mediterranean flavors with fresh seafood, inspired by the Amalfi Coast.
Gordon Ramsay Steak: British classics and high-quality steaks at Paris Las Vegas, with a Hell’s Kitchen flair.
Beauty & Essex: An elegant fusion of international flavors with a secret entrance through a pawn shop.
Bazaar Meat by José Andrés: Innovative meat dishes with a Spanish twist and an impressive selection of wines.
The Bedford by Martha Stewart: Home-style dishes with a luxurious twist in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Carbone: Classic Italian-American dining with tableside preparations in a retro-glam setting.
Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants
For those seeking vegetarian-friendly dining experiences on the Las Vegas Strip that also cater to meat lovers, there are several noteworthy options. Jardin at Encore stands out with its artfully presented vegetarian dishes like truffle mushroom risotto, perfect for those seeking both taste and aesthetics. Canyon Ranch Grill at The Venetian features a health-conscious menu with vegetarian choices alongside flavorful meat options.
At The Buffet at Wynn, diners can indulge in a wide selection of international cuisines, ensuring that vegetarian options are plentiful and diverse. Giada at The Cromwell, helmed by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, is celebrated for its Italian-inspired menu with standout vegetarian dishes such as lemon spaghetti and eggplant rollatini. Slice of Vegas at Mandalay Bay offers an array of vegetarian pizzas alongside classic Italian-American dishes, making it a popular choice for families. True Food Kitchen at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace provides health-conscious diners with a variety of vegetarian options, including edamame dumplings and ancient grains bowls. At the Baccanal Buffet, you can explore a variety of cuisines - with 10 kitchens, 9 chef-attended sessions and 250+ menu items, it is the largest buffet in Las Vegas.
Hakkasan offers Cantonese cuisine known for its modern approach and stylish ambiance with signature dim sum - and they have vegetarian items too! Esther's Kitchen, a local favorite, is renowned for its handmade pasta, offering vegetarian options like rigatoni with vegetable ragu. For comfort food with a vegan twist. Mint Indian Bistro is well-regarded for its vegetarian dishes. Lastly, Tacotarian provides a plant-based take on Mexican cuisine, featuring a wide variety of tacos that cater to both vegetarian and meat-loving diners.
Michelin Star Chef Restaurants
Joel Robuchon at MGM Grand: French haute cuisine in an opulent setting with a 16-course tasting menu.
Restaurant Guy Savoy: Elegant French dining with an emphasis on luxury, including the iconic artichoke and black truffle soup.
Wing Lei at Wynn: The first Chinese restaurant in North America to receive a Michelin star, known for its Peking duck, has vegetarian section on the menu
Le Cirque: Find this French restaurant in the Bellagio!
Piccaso by Chef Julian Serrano - Inspired by France and Spain - what a fun menu selection!
NOBU - at Caesars Palace is the only location in the U.S. to have Teppan tables, and you can book an exclusive experience! They have vegan and vegetarian options.
Luxury Hotels on the Strip
Stay at one of these hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, each offering family-friendly amenities and prime locations for exploring the city:
Offers spacious suites and a range of family-friendly activities.
A boutique hotel with chic interiors and a personalized experience.
Upscale spa hotel near Fashion Show Mall
Bellagio Resort: Famous for its dancing fountains and central location near top attractions.
Luxury spa resort, a quick walk to Fountains of Bellagio
A modern hotel known for its luxurious amenities and nightlife.
Luxury spa resort near Las Vegas Convention Center
Known for its luxury accommodations and excellent service, perfect for couples.
Luxury Las Vegas resort connected to a shopping center, steps from Crystals at City Center
Luxury resort connected to the convention center, steps from Mandalay Bay Convention Center
Luxury spa resort, a quick walk to Fashion Show Mall
Resort with 18 restaurants, steps from MGM Grand Garden Arena (reasonably priced)
Explore Beyond the Las Vegas Strip
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
Las Vegas is often synonymous with vibrant nightlife and sprawling casinos, but beyond the iconic Strip lies a variety of experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking an adventure that breaks away from the traditional, Las Vegas offers attractions that cater to a variety of interests. From natural wonders to unique museums, this guide will take you on a journey to discover the city’s lesser-known attractions.
Tips for Families and Travelers
To make the most of your trip to Las Vegas, keep these tips in mind:
Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be dehydrating, so always carry water.
Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin during outdoor activities with a good SPF sunscreen.
Mix Activities: Combine indoor and outdoor attractions for a balanced itinerary.
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-visit for nature lovers. Located approximately 17 miles (27 km) west of the Strip, this area offers a scenic drive through striking red rock formations and several hiking trails suitable for all levels. It’s an excellent way to spend a half-day outdoors, taking in the beauty of the desert landscape.
For a full-day excursion, consider visiting Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, approximately 30 miles (48 km) southeast of the Strip. The dam, a marvel of engineering, offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating history. Nearby Lake Mead is perfect for recreational activities like boating and fishing.
Exploring the Grand Canyon is a remarkable addition to any Las Vegas itinerary. While the Grand Canyon itself is approximately 250 miles (400 km) east of the Strip, various helicopter and airplane tours make it easily accessible from Las Vegas. These tours often depart from McCarran International Airport and provide breathtaking aerial views of this natural wonder. Some tours even offer the opportunity to land on the canyon floor, allowing you to experience the majestic landscapes up close.
Tour Options
Seven Magic Mountains is another outdoor attraction worth visiting. Located approximately 22 miles (35 km) south of the Strip, this memorable art installation features brightly colored, stacked boulders that make for fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Can you drive to Seven Magic Mountains?
Yes. Park in the onsite parking lot.
Do I need to take a tour to see this attraction?
If you are comfortable with Uber, you should be able to get to this location yourself without much help. It is about 25 minutes away and there is no entrance fee. That said, it is harder to get an Uber back so you have to ask your driver to wait. Your visit will take about 30 minutes. There is no other public transportation.
There are no restrooms at this location. Only private non-commercial photography is allowed here.
If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, head to Clark County Wetlands Park, situated about 15 miles (24 km) east of the Strip. This expansive park offers serene nature walks and excellent bird-watching opportunities. It’s a peaceful place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Las Vegas’ surroundings.
Cultural and Historical Explorations
For a change of pace, venture to Fremont Street Experience in downtown Las Vegas, located approximately 4 miles (6 km) north of the Strip. This lively pedestrian mall is known for its light shows, and the exhilarating SlotZilla zip line.
To dive into Las Vegas history, visit The Neon Boneyard at the Neon Museum, which is about 6 miles (10 km) north of the Strip. This museum offers guided tours that showcase the city’s iconic neon signs, providing a glimpse into Las Vegas’ past and its unique visual culture.
The Downtown Las Vegas Arts District, approximately 3 miles (5 km) north of the Strip, is another cultural gem. With its galleries, eclectic shops, and colorful street art, the Arts District is a creative hub worth exploring. Visiting during the First Friday event adds to the experience, offering a festival-like atmosphere filled with local art and culture.
Unique Adventures
For those seeking a bit of thrill, Las Vegas offers a range of unique adventures. A helicopter ride over the Strip provides breathtaking aerial views of the city’s landmarks, with tours typically departing from McCarran International Airport, located on the Strip. Opt for a nighttime helicopter tour to see the city lights in all their glory.
Another early morning adventure? Consider a hot air balloon ride over Las Vegas. Launch sites are usually about 15 miles (24 km) west of the Strip. For an adrenaline rush without jumping out of a plane, try indoor skydiving, located about 1 mile (1.6 km) east of the Strip. This activity simulates the sensation of free-falling in a vertical wind tunnel, making it a fun experience for all ages.
Car enthusiasts will enjoy a 2-hour exotic car racing experience, situated approximately 10 miles (16 km) south of the Strip, where you can drive high-performance sports cars on a professional racetrack. How exhilarating!
Alternatively, consider the Las Vegas Dunes ATV tour. Meet your shuttle right on the strip and set off with a small group. Your guide will take you into the desert.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum, located approximately 6 miles (10 km) north of the Strip, is an excellent choice for a family outing. With exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and more, the museum offers an educational and entertaining experience for both kids and adults.
Springs Preserve, located about 6 miles (10 km) northwest of the Strip, is another family-friendly destination. This attraction features botanical gardens, walking trails, and interactive exhibits that highlight Las Vegas’ natural and cultural history. It’s a great place to learn and explore together.
For a sweet treat, visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden in Henderson, located about 11 miles (18 km) southeast of the Strip. Tour the chocolate factory to see how their delicious treats are made, and stroll through the cactus garden. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, the garden’s light display adds an extra touch of magic.
Finally, consider a Wild West horseback trail ride! Get picked up from your hotel, dine on a western-style breakfast (request vegetarian meals!) and take a horseback ride while enjoying the desert landscape, roadrunners and jack rabbits!
