Why families are (again) betting on a trip to Las Vegas - The Points Guy
You may think Las Vegas is the go-to destination for couples getaways and over-the-top bachelor and bachelorette parties. And, you'd be correct. However, for some, there can be much more to Vegas than just its adult-oriented scene. In fact, Sin City offers a surprising amount of amenities for families who want to make the trip to the city of neon.
Back in the 1990s, Las Vegas transformed itself into a kid-friendly megaresort, offering everything children could ever want in an attempt to attract more families ... and their dollars. There were arcades, theme parks, pirate fights and even erupting volcanoes, providing every member of the family something to enjoy.
But by the early 2000s, that effort was largely abandoned. Instead, Vegas once again embraced its adult playland persona. What happened in Vegas got out of the family scrapbooks and went back to staying in Vegas.
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However, in recent years, Sin City has started to shift back toward being more relevant for families, a move which was likely only amplified by the coronavirus pandemic. Only 5% of Las Vegas visitors brought folks younger than 21 with them in 2019, according to a study by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority from that year. In 2021, though, that number increased to 21%, a massive jump that simply can't be ignored.
So if your idea of a good time in Las Vegas involves your kiddos, you're in luck: It turns out that Sin City can once again be a good gamble for families thanks to its array of fun activities, attractions and more.
Here is what to know if you are thinking about visiting Vegas with your family.
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Why bring kids to Las Vegas?
Before we dive into the details of Vegas' family-friendly features, let's start with some reasons why travelers may consider bringing kids to Sin City.
First and likely foremost, it's an affordable city to visit. The average cost of a domestic round-trip flight to Vegas in 2022 is just $239.77 per person, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. That's not only less than the national average of $330 per person round-trip, but also less than what you'll spend on average to fly to top family vacation destinations like Orlando.
Because of its location, it is also a driveable destination for millions of Americans who could avoid flying altogether by loading up the minivan and driving to the city. And when you're ready to bed down for the night, you'll find a number of budget-friendly hotel rooms, even at the more luxurious end of the spectrum, as long as you avoid visiting during peak dates like long holiday weekends and major sporting events.
Beyond saving money, you'll also find that there are ample ways to enjoy your time here. Whether you and your little ones want to catch a show, get your heart racing on a thrilling ride or enjoy an eyeful of bright lights and characters, Vegas will keep your family entertained for hours.
Las Vegas can also be a great add-on destination for larger family outings in the American West. In addition to visiting Vegas, you could easily check out bucket list-worthy national parks like the Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Zion.
Road trips to other Nevada hot spots and places in nearby states are easily doable, too. Get your Route 66 kicks in Kingman, Arizona, which is about an hour and a half from Las Vegas, when you're not busy exploring old Arizona mining towns like Cornville, Clarkdale and Cottonwood. Or, head to Sedona, Arizona, for some time in nature hiking and biking. The desert town sits just 4 1/2 hours away from Vegas.
Related: Getting to Las Vegas on points and miles
Free Las Vegas activities for the whole family
Las Vegas does more than offer affordable things to do. It's packed with activities that won't cost you a dime to experience.
Enjoy a photo-op at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign
If you didn't get a photo in front of the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, did you even go to Vegas?
Checking out this iconic spot at the south end of Las Vegas Boulevard is a can't-miss Sin City activity. Be sure to arrive early, as it's common to find long lines as the day progresses.
Related: 21 things to know about the MGM Grand in Las Vegas
Watch the Bellagio fountain show
While the Bellagio Hotel & Casino's iconic fountain show is a must-visit during any Vegas vacation, you really shouldn't skip it when you're with your kids.
Located in front of MGM Resorts' Bellagio resort, the majestic waters dance to varied musical stylings every half hour until 8 p.m. and then every 15 minutes until midnight. Grab a spot along the front rail in the center of the lake for the best view.
Visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
Nestled behind the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is an ideal spot for wildlife-loving kiddos. This 4-acre oasis holds waterfalls, streams and gardens teeming with exotic birds, fish, ducks and Chilean flamingos.
The habitat is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., with two live feedings and keeper talks daily at 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Play in the Treehouse Playground
Downtown Container Park on historic Fremont Street is a lure for families. It's home to the Treehouse Playground, which features a 33-foot-tall slide, bridges and an interactive play system. Plus, there's a good selection of dining options — pizza, tacos and sandwiches — so be sure to grab lunch while you're here.
The playground area is open from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. After that, only other parts of Downtown Container Park are open. However, they're limited to adults 21 and older, so plan your visit accordingly. Aim to visit around sunset when a drum circle to wake up the larger park's giant praying mantis sculpture takes place.
Related: A classic getaway: Revisiting the Las Vegas of my childhood to love it even more
Check out the Silverton Casino Hotel's aquarium
Considered one of the city's best free attractions by many who've visited, the Silverton Casino Hotel's aquarium is a fun diversion. The 117,000-gallon aquarium is home to thousands of tropical fish — and even mermaids.
While the aquarium itself is open 24 hours a day, if you want to catch a glimpse of its mermaids swimming around the reef, time your visit for a Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday. On these days, the mermaids make several appearances at select times.
The aquarium also hosts interactive stingray feedings daily at 1:30 p.m and 4:30 p.m.
Walk through the themed resorts
Paris, Egypt, the medieval era and more are all waiting for you in Vegas' themed resorts. Each is free to walk through, meaning you can take in all the over-the-top decor for as long as you like. Just be sure to avoid stopping in the resorts' casinos — most allow you to walk through with kids, so long as you don't stop and linger by the machines.
On a hot Vegas day, walking in and between the resorts can be tiring, so remember to pace yourself. You may want to limit yourself to one or two properties to avoid wearing your little ones out.
To keep cool and save time, make use of the free trams. There are three of them, and each runs about every 15 minutes.
The Aria Express Tram runs between Park MGM, Aria and the Bellagio. Meanwhile, the Mandalay Bay tram travels between the Excalibur, the Luxor and the Mandalay Bay hotels. Another tram that makes stops between The Mirage and Treasure Island is available as well.
Related: A Tesla party: The 3-station Las Vegas Loop that's revolutionizing how you get around
Las Vegas attractions that are great for kids
There are many ways for families to enjoy their Vegas vacation. Whether you and your kiddos have an interest in futuristic attractions or marine encounters — or something else entirely — you'll find plenty of fun diversions. Here are a few you should check out.
Area15
This immersive bunker-style retail, dining and entertainment complex is just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip on South Rancho Drive.
The vibe here is a fantastic mesh of retro and futuristic. It's open every day and general admission is free, though timed-entry tickets are required for social distancing. Know, too, that certain experiences and exhibits cost extra.
The anchor exhibit here is the 52,000-square-foot Meow Wolf's Omega Mart installation, which costs a minimum of $40 for kids ages 4 to 13 and $45 for visitors 14 and up to experience. Filled with alien portals, funkadelic dystopian landscapes and mind-bending products you can buy, the funky space aptly bills itself as "America's Most Exceptional Grocery Store."
Another must is Wink World, created by Blue Man Group co-founder Chris Wink. This psychedelic art installation is brilliant, featuring a narrow hallway that leads you through six infinity mirror rooms alive with vibrant colors, sound, light and motion.
While a $14 to $18 fee (depending on age) applies to access this space, it's well worth a visit. Pay an extra $2.50 per person for the Chromadepth glasses. Your kids may think they look dorky to wear, but they really enhance your experience.
FlyOver Las Vegas
I'm a sucker for a good flight ride, and this one did not disappoint. It's on the Las Vegas Strip right next to the Hard Rock Cafe. During the ride, you'll sit suspended in front of a 52-foot circular screen. The platform you're on moves throughout the ride, with wind, mist and scents amplifying the real-life feel of it all.
We chose the "Real Wild West" option because it seemed like the perfect fit given our Nevada location. As we soared above the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park and other destinations, I found myself eager to explore more state and national parks.
Single-ride tickets for FlyOver Las Vegas cost $30.60 for adults and $22.10 for kids 12 and younger when purchased in advance online. If you buy on-site, know that you'll spend a few bucks more per person. Children must be at least 40 inches tall to ride and sit with an adult or guardian who's at least 14 years old.
Related: 9 exciting new things in Las Vegas that will make you want to book a trip right now
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Prepare to feel transported to another world — one far below the water's surface — at Mandalay Bay's aquarium. As you explore this seemingly ancient sinking temple, you'll discover 15 species of sharks, stingrays, piranhas, endangered green sea turtles and a bevy of other marine life. There are even reptiles, including a python, a crocodile and a Komodo dragon.
Kids marveled at the aquarium's animals in every room we visited. I was especially enchanted by the underwater tunnel, as was everyone else who walked through.
Your basic ticket, which costs $29 for adults and $24 for kids 5 and older (little ones 4 and younger get in for free), includes entry to the main facility, plus the "Undersea Explorer" virtual reality experience set in the South Pacific. You can also pay for interactive animal programs like feedings with stingrays, sharks or sea turtles.
High Roller Observation Wheel
Thrill-seekers take note: The 550-foot-tall High Roller, North America's largest observation wheel, may offer the best seat in the house. It's the main attraction at The Linq Las Vegas Hotel + Experience, a hotel on the Strip featuring its own shopping, dining and entertainment district.
Each of the 28 air-conditioned, glass-enclosed cabins holds 40 passengers. The leisurely rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the views.
Ticket prices start at $23.50 for adults and $8.50 for kids between 4 and 12, though the exact pricing varies depending on the time of day you ride. For the cheapest tickets, visit before 7 p.m.
Pinball Museum
