Family-Friendly Things to Do in Las Vegas

It isn’t surprising that as a vibrant city whose population is one-quarter children, Las Vegas is home to a large behind-the-scenes array of child- and family-friendly places. No matter what your family’s interests, odds are that Las Vegas has something for you.

Even on the world-famous Strip, attractions at various casino-hotels include Shark Reefs, Dolphin Habitats, dancing fountains, and roller coasters. After a short while, however, you may want to take the kids further afield to “go native” and spend family time the way the locals do, in a way that doesn’t break the budget.  

For the Active and Outdoorsy

If your family loves the trademark summer heat (but it’s a dry heat!), pack at least 128 ounces of water per person and take a trip out to Red Rock Canyon for a picnic or a hike with plenty of other people around to entertain you. Red Rock is famous for its rock-climbing opportunities, and it is home to Mojave Max, our cherished desert spokestortoise.

If a more secluded hiking experience is what you crave, still with plenty of water, hit one of the trails at Nevada’s First State Park, Valley of Fire. Valley of Fire is a great place to see prehistoric petroglyphs and take in the area’s cultural history. This state park backs up against Lake Mead National Recreation Area, another park option for a day off the Strip.

High temperatures getting you down? A challenging walk up to Mary Jane Falls or a picnic at the Old Mill on Mount Charleston will cool your heels.

In town, the Las Vegas Springs Preserve offers a full menu of exhibits, programs and activities to educate and entertain.

For the Miniature Scientists

Consider taking a hardhat tour of Hoover Dam. In addition to learning about the Dam’s history, visitors can see the inner guts of the structure and learn the mechanics of how the Dam works.

On Las Vegas Boulevard past the North end of the strip, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum has interactive exhibits.

The College of Southern Nevada is home to a tiny but wonderful Planetarium with a rotating program and seasonal stargazing opportunities afterwards.

For the Bookworm or Movie Buff

Be sure to check out the Clark County Library District’s programming schedule to see if there will be a movie night or story time during your visit.

Las Vegas also has a drive-in movie theater. 

For the Sports Fan

Pull up a blanket or chair at any time throughout the year and cheer on one of Las Vegas’s many league soccer teams. If you’re in town in the summer or fall, you can watch our beloved 51s defeat the competition on the baseball diamond. In the winter, the Runnin’ Rebels would love to see you in the stands.

While in Las Vegas, wear sunscreen, protect your retinas, and most importantly: have fun!