Is Las Vegas family friendly?
When you think of Las Vegas two things might come immediately to mind: the city’s nickname of “Sin City” and the slogan, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” The city is known for its wild reputation and when mom and dad are planning a family vacation, Vegas rarely makes the short list.
Sure, Las Vegas is filled with fun for grown-ups – there’s plenty of glitz, gambling, and adult-orientated entertainment. But did you know that it is also quite family friendly? There’s plenty to do with the kids – from hanging out at the pool to catching first-rate theatrical productions, to amazing sights – Vegas has it all.
If you want to have that perfect Vegas vacation with the kids, you just need to know some of Sin City’s best-kept secrets.
Where to Stay
As you plan your family vacation, it’s important to choose the right hotel, not just for your budget but also for its policies. There are actually plenty of hotels that just don’t market to families and that don’t want kids on the premises. Here are five of the most family-friendly hotels in the city:
• Circus Circus – Equipped with its own theme park and nonstop circus shows this may very well be the #1 choice for families.
• Caesars Palace – With a 4.5-acre Garden of the Gods and an awesome pool complex, this hotel has it all. Oh, and kids under 17 usually stay free.
• Stratosphere – Your teens will love it. Enough said!
• New York New York – Similar to Paris Las Vegas, this city-themed hotel and casino is just like staying in the Big Apple.
• Four Seasons – Though it’s on the pricier side, it is extremely kid-friendly and pampers the whole family.
One of the hotel towers in Caesars Palace. photo credit: Euroangel Graffiti
Swimming in Sin City
If you think being at the pool isn’t a top activity in Las Vegas, you’re wrong! Vegas has some of the best hotel and resort pool complexes in the U.S. and many of them are great for the kids. Here are five of the best pools in town:
• MGM Grand – The 7-acre pool complex has 5 pools, 3 whirlpools, waterfalls, tube rentals, and rides.
• The Monte Carlo – Smaller than most hotel pool complexes, this is still one to see. Private and lovely with kid-sized wave pools, lagoons, and beach chairs.
• Mandalay Bay – With 11 acres to cover, this pool complex is like no other – a real sand beach, three pools, and seasonal concerts to boot.
• The Mirage – One large pool interconnected with lagoons, waterfalls, and bridges makes this a secret garden of family fun.
• The Luxor – Located at the bottom of the Luxor Pyramid, this complex offers four pools and whirlpools and plenty of fun.
Hoover DamOther Family Fun
While you probably can’t take the kiddies to the casinos, there’s still fun to be had! Here are five great family-friendly ideas for your entertainment:
• Hoover Dam – This is a great side trip if you want to escape The Strip for a day. Everyone needs to see this!
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – This is great for those nature lovers. With a 13-mile scenic drive and plenty of picnic spots, the kids will love it.
• Valley of Fire State Park – See the famous Seven Sisters and ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) in the canyon.
• Blue Man Group – This show is fun for all ages and appeals to families with diverse interests.
• Cirque de Soleil – This performance troupe has several shows going on in Vegas – mom, dad, and kids will all love it.
