Though it’s known for being a 24/7 “adult playground” with its endless casinos, extravagant shows and performances, the vibrant nightlife, and celebrity chef restaurants, you’ll be delighted to learn that it’s just as much a family-friendly destination. Attractions, activities, and experiences show that there are, believe it or not, plenty of things to do in Las Vegas for family members of any age.
How do we know? Well, our shows first opened in Las Vegas back in 1992. Our performers have made Vegas their home, raised families there, and cherish its communal vibes. Now, it’s with great pleasure we introduce you to the free, paid, indoor, outdoor and everything in between activities for children in Las Vegas. Whether you prefer the action of the strip or want to veer into the city’s outer limits, check out these fun activities.
Free & Budget-Friendly Kid Activities in Las Vegas
There’s no way around it: Las Vegas isn’t the world’s most affordable destination. Between restaurants, casinos, and shows, doing it all can mean your wallet’s doing the most. That said, there are actually quite several free shows and experiences in this town. You just got to know where to look. Keep reading for our best budget-friendly picks.
Bellagio Water Show
Bellagio Water Show is one of the great family-friendly activities in Las Vegas: a choreographed water spectacle that spouts off every 15 minutes, day or night, rain or shine, all set to familiar songs and lights. Core memory unlocked, guaranteed. A true Las Vegas classic.
- Address: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Daily from 3PM until midnight
- Type of activity: An outdoor water and light show
- Pro tip: Come by after dark to really see the fountains pop!
Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is the definition of a photo op. Pull over on your way to (or from) the Strip and snap that family selfie. There might be a short line if you visit during peak hours, but we think it's totally worth the wait.
- Address: 5100 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open 24/7
- Type of activity: Outdoor landmark and photo opp
- Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for shorter lines
Wildlife Habitat at The Flamingo
The Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo is an oasis in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. If you're looking for Las Vegas family activities that everyone can enjoy, even mom and dad, then this is it. Inside the famous Flamingo Hotel is an animal sanctuary, home to critters like fish, turtles, and bubblegum pink flamingos flexing their beauty. Parents, you'll also appreciate it for its shaded path and calm vibes.
- Address: 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open 24/7
- Type of activity: A wildlife habitat in the heart of a hotel and casino
- Pro tip: The earlier you go, the better: animals are more active first thing in the morning. Plus it'll be more peaceful.
Downtown Container Park
Downtown Container Park is an alfresco shopping and dining spot for families. Beyond the meal choices—of which there are plenty—kids can climb all over the jungle gym, run around in circles, and enjoy the on-site entertainment.
- Address: 707 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Typically 11 AM to 9 PM
- Type of activity: Outdoor shopping, dining, and play area
- Pro tip: Visit during the afternoon or early evening
Viva Vision Light Show at Fremont Street Experience
The Viva Vision Light Show at Fremont Street Experience is dubbed the “world's largest LED canopy screen”. Come nightfall, shows start at the top of the hour, projecting dazzling displays from 6:00 PM until 2:00 PM. It's totally free and a definite crowd-pleaser.
- Address: Fremont Street Experience, 425 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Nightly shows on the hour, every hour until 2 AM
- Type of activity: Outdoor light, music, and video show
- Pro tip: Head here between 6PM and 8PM to avoid crowds and find yourself in a more family-friendly atmosphere.
Las Vegas Indoor & Air-Conditioned Escapes for Families (Beat the Heat!)
Surrounded by desert, Las Vegas's climate is dry and hot. Though it doesn't happen all that often, it can get downright stormy too. Especially in summer, when temperatures can become dangerously hot, finding indoor activities is a great idea.
Having a few outdoor activities in your back-pocket is key for making the most of your time in Las Vegas.
Shark Reef Aquarium
The Shark Reef Aquarium is located in the Mandalay Bay hotel. It brings visitors up close to some of the underwater's most magical creatures: sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish in a vivid spectrum of colors. Exploring Las Vegas with toddlers can be challenging, but this activity is both fun and educational. Parent and kid approved!
- Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
- Cost/Admission: Paid; ticket prices vary by age (discounts often available for children)
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: 10AM to 8PM
- Type of activity: Indoor aquarium and educational attraction
- Pro tip: Like all things Vegas, visit earlier in the day for lighter crowds and a calmer experience.
Discovery Children's Museum
The Discovery Children's Museum is beloved by kids and parents alike. It's packed with interactive exhibits that teach and inspire, spread across multiple floors. Unlike other kinds of museums, here the little ones are encouraged to touch and play with everything on display. These learning zones help spark imagination!
- Address: 360 Promenade Place, Las Vegas, NV 89106 (inside the Donald W. Reynolds Discovery Center)
- Cost/Admission: $20
- Age suitability: Designed for kids aged 0-12
- Hours of operation: From 10 AM to 5 PM weekdays; 12 PM to 5 PM on Sundays
- Type of activity: Interactive play and learning museum
FlyOver in Las Vegas
FlyOver in Las Vegas is an activity for the more daring at heart. It's an immersive experience featuring motion seats, giant screens, and special effects that make visitors feel like they're soaring up above some of the world's most famous landscapes. It's exhilarating, but not too scary for kids. It's a great way to have fun and fire up their imaginations!
- Address: 3771 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
- Cost/Admission: Paid; ticket prices vary
- Age suitability: All ages (height requirements apply to some rides)
- Hours of operation: Hours vary by season, typically opens in late morning through the evening
- Type of activity: Indoor immersive attraction
- Pro tip: Book tickets earlier in the day or in advance to avoid peak wait times
M&M's World Las Vegas
M&M's World Las Vegas welcomes chocolate lovers of all ages through its doors! Step inside, and come face to face with everyone's favorite colorful chocolate candy on everything from t-shirts, socks, keychains. If you can dream it, they probably have an M&M-branded version of it.
- Address: 3785 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 891091 (at Showcase Mall)
- Cost/Admission: Free to enter
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Typically from 9 AM to midnight
- Type of activity: Shopping
- Pro tip: Get there a little early to take photos with the big candy characters and wall displays
KISS by Monster Mini Golf
KISS by Monster Mini Golf is more than your classic, all-American mini golf experience. Look out for the glow-in-the-dark locale inside the Rio Resort. Not only are its 18 holes shrouded in darkness, but the entire course's theme is centred on the rock n' roll band, KISS. It's a great way to have fun as a family and introduce kids to classic rock.
- Address: 3700 W Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103 (Rio Hotel & Casino)
- Cost/Admission: Paid; ticket prices vary
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open 24/7
- Type of activity: Indoor mini golf attraction
- Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for shorter lines
On-The-Strip Thrills & Classic Family Attractions in Las Vegas
It wouldn't be a trip to Las Vegas without spending some time on the famous Las Vegas Strip! Here are some activities suitable for families with kids of any age.
The Las Vegas Strip
The Las Vegas Strip is the main artery and a four-mile stretch of road connecting all of downtown Las Vegas's hotels and casinos. Strolling along it really helps pass the time. Check out the bright lights, themed hotels, and street performances that make this famous stretch of road feel like an open-air attraction. If you're here during the summer, be sure to take plenty of shade breaks.
- Address: S Las Vegas Blvd (roughly from Mandalay Bay to the STRAT)
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open 24/7
- Type of activity: Main street in Las Vegas
- Pro tip: There's always lots to do and see on The Strip. If you're planning on walking its length, be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York Hotel & Casino is a high-speed coaster that loops around the casino's mock New York themed skyline towers. It will be a hit among older kids and teenagers who are seeking some rush to go with their Vegas trip—might be the one and only time they can claim to zip past skyscrapers like The Empire State Building.
- Address: 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
- Cost/Admission: Paid; ticket prices vary by age and time of day
- Age suitability: Best for older kids and teens
- Hours of operation: 11 AM to 11 PM
- Type of activity: Outdoor roller coaster and thrill ride
The STRAT thrill rides
The STRAT Thrill Rides is a mini-theme park perched atop one of the tallest towers in the U.S., the STRAT Hotel & Casino Tower. So you don't need us to remind you that these rides are not for the faint of heart. Already, if your kids are scared of heights, this might not be the venue for them.
- Address: 2000 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Cost/Admission: Ride pricing varies
- Age suitability: Best for teens—some of these rides are scary!
- Hours of operation: Typically from 12 PM to 10 PM, with extended hours on evenings and weekends
- Type of activity: Theme park and observation deck
- Pro tip: Check the height requirements before getting on any of the rides
Cirque du Soleil shows
Cirque du Soleil's shows in Las Vegas are yet another solid choice for parents scrambling for kid-friendly ideas. Catch any of our long-standing residencies when you're in town: KÁ at MGM Grand, Micheal Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Mystère at Treasure Island, or “O” At Bellagio Hotel and Casino. Our stunning visuals, acrobatics, and energetic music are family-friendly. Your children won't be bored at one of our shows, that's for sure!
- Address: Locations vary
- Cost/Admission: Prices vary
- Age suitability: Best suited for kids aged 5+
- Hours of operation: Check venue times
- Type of activity: Live performances merging acrobatic performance with fantastical storytelling
Discover the Magic
Want to dive deeper? Explore Cirque du Soleil’s shows near you and come see us in action!
The Las Vegas Strip High Roller Observation Wheel at the LinQ Casino
The High Roller Observation Wheel may not have the heart-racing, palm-sweating qualities of some of Vegas's other coasters. But what it lacks in speed, it makes up for in enchantment. Slow, smooth rides offer panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. Good news for parents of very young children: it's even stroller-friendly. This is one of Las Vegas's kid theme parks you won't want to skip.
- Address: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 (The LinQ Promenade)
- Cost/Admission: Prices vary by age and time of day
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Noon ‘til midnight
- Type of activity: Observation wheel and sightseeing attraction
- Pro tip: Ride at sunset to get a best-of-both worlds glimpse, and not keep the kids up too late.
Off-Strip & Day-Trip Adventures for Kids in Las Vegas
Though there are endless activities on The Strip, just wait till you see what else there is to do beyond downtown Las Vegas, like historical sites and breathtaking natural expanses. Bonus: there are fewer crowds the further away you venture from the city—just you, your family, and some breathtaking desert landscapes! Check out this list of short day-trips for you and the kids, and see a side of the city few often do.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is only a short drive from Vegas (which is great news if your little ones are prone to motion sickness!) and a great Las Vegas day trip with kids. Once there, you'll encounter jaw-dropping desert views and hiking trails easy enough even little kiddos can tackle them. If your family lives for the outdoors, this day trip is a must.
- Address: 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
- Cost/Admission: $20 per vehicle
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Scenic drive open as of 6 AM daily
- Type of activity: A park in nature complete with trails, viewpoints, and scenic drives
- Pro tip: Go early in the morning for cool temperatures and better wildlife spotting
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is a mystical art installation by artist Ugo Rondinone located in the last place you'd ever expect to find one: in the middle of the desert. Stacks of neon rocks stretching up to the sky will have your kids wondering “how'd these get there?”
- Address: S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054
- Cost/Admission: Free
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open access from sunrise to sunset
- Type of activity: Outdoor public art installation
- Pro tip: Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are musts when visiting here. Don't spend too long outside—you'll cook in the Vegas sun.
Lake Mead & Hoover Dam
Lake Mead & Hoover Dam is a classic Vegas day trip that features the best of all worlds: scenic views, an in-depth look at American history, and plenty of room to stretch those legs. At Hoover Dam, kids can marvel at one of the biggest feats in engineering. Beyond the dam, Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the closest thing you'll get to a beach day out in the desert. Enjoy picnics or short walks by the lake. Just remember to pack extra sunscreen.
- Address: Hoover Dam Access Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005
- Cost/Admission: Outdoor viewing areas are free at Hoover Dam; guided tours are paid (prices vary by tour type)
- Age suitability: All ages (best for school-aged children)
- Hours of operation: Between 9 AM to 5 PM
- Type of activity: Outdoor sightseeing and exploring a historical landmark that helped shape America
- Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds. It gets really hot out there!
Springs Preserve
Springs Preserve is an escape from The Strip, and a favorite among families who want something a little more hands-on. Here, you'll find cultural and natural attractions like museums, outdoor trails, and botanical gardens. It's a great place to cool off from the heat and escape the hubbub of Vegas properly.
- Address: 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107
- Cost/Admission: About $18.95 for adults and $10.95 for children
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Thursday to Monday from 9 AM to 4 PM
- Type of activity: An indoor/outdoor space complete with museums, nature trails, gardens, exhibits, and more.
- Pro tip: Cooler temps make time spent at Springs Preserve more enjoyable, so try to arrive before the afternoon heat becomes too much.
Kid-Friendly Museums in Las Vegas
Let's put aside Las Vegas's glitz and glam for just a moment: did you know the city is also home to tons of museums that cater to visitors of all ages? Check out these spots when you're looking for a change of pace.
Discovery Children's Museum
Discovery Children's Museum is a solid choice for families with younger children. The interactive museum has tons of hands-on exhibits and imaginative play rooms. It's made to keep those little minds busy for hours and hours—much to parents' relief.
- Address: 360 Promenade Pl, Las Vegas, NV 89106
- Cost/Admission: $20 for General Admission
- Age suitability: Best for toddlers through pre-teens
- Hours of operation: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM, Sunday: noon - 5 PM
- Type of activity: Indoor, hands-on museum that encourages creative play
- Pro tip: Pack a change of clothes: some exhibits, like Water World, can be a little too hands-on (by that we mean messy).
Neon Museum
The Neon Museum is an outdoor museum, a time capsule of what Vegas once was. It started out as a storage facility but, by popular demand, was opened to the public. Nowadays, it's one of the top destinations on any Las Vegas list. Wander through the “graveyard” to see nearly 200 signs of casinos and theaters that once stood proud.
- Address: 770 N Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas NV 89101
- Cost/Admission: $25 for adults, $12.50 for kids (7-17) and free for children six and under
- Age suitability: All ages
- Hours of operation: Open usually from 2PM to 10PM
- Type of activity: An outdoor, open-air museum with guided and self-guided tours
- Pro tip: For the best photos, time your visit for twilight or early evening to see the signs pop against the dusk backdrop.
The Mob Museum
The Mob Museum of Las Vegas is a unique museum that tells the fascinating story of Las Vegas—and how, without organized crime, there might not be a Sin City at all. You'll learn all about the real-life criminal and the movies their lives are based on. This might not be a suitable experience for very young children, but older kids and teens will get a kick out of it.
- Address: 300 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Cost/Admission: $30-$35 for general admission
- Age suitability: Best suited for kids aged 12+
- Hours of operation: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Type of activity: Museum
- Pro tip: Plan at least 90 minutes here. There are three floors, and you'll want to give yourself enough time to see all of them.
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas Wax Museum in the Venetian Hotel is a great way to see celebrities and icons of pop culture. Snap selfies with life-like statues of all your favourite Marvel characters, Hollywood's biggest celebs, and musicians. Be sure to visit—this might be the closest you come to the world's most famous pop star, Taylor Swift.
- Address: 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV (The Venetian)
- Cost/Admission: Ticket prices vary but run between $30-$60
- Age suitability: All ages, but especially fun for kids aged 6+
- Hours of operation: 10 AM to 8:PM daily
- Type of activity: Indoor interactive museum with celebrity wax figures
Age-Specific Picks in Las Vegas
How old are your kids? Whether they're tiny tots, pre-teens, or teenagers, we've compiled some activities grouped by age (and interest) so you can keep everyone happy!
Las Vegas activities for toddlers
Little kids with even little attention spans will love these high-sensory, low-stress activities.
- Wildlife Habitat at Flamingo
The wildlife habitat at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is a serene wildlife sanctuary. It's stroller-friendly, so bring your tot here to look for flamingos, fish, and turtles.
- Discovery Children's Museum.
The DISCOVERY Children's Museum is a hands-on museum that encourages learning through play. Kids will love exploring and running around. It's great for children aged 5 and under.
Activities for 6-12-year-olds in Las Vegas
- Shark Reef Aquarium
An immersive underwater experience and chance to see and learn about marine life.
- KISS Mini Golf
Glow-in-the-dark mini golf meets KISS, rock n' roll music, and other arcade games.
- Big Apple Coaster
Brave kids will love the big roller coaster at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, which weaves through a replica of the Manhattan skyline and loops just above the casino floor.
Las Vegas activities for teens
Teens can be fickle, but these ideas should keep them thoroughly entertained on your family trip to Las Vegas.
- The STRAT
The STRAT is a go-to for teens who live thrills, adrenaline-fueled rides and screaming at the top of their lungs.
- FlyOver
This immersive experience simulates flight with special effects. So, it'll feel like you're flying, which is great for teens who want something dramatic.
- Immersive VR at AREA15
If your teenager loves new technology, then you can't go wrong with this VR experience with an extraterrestrial twist.
Las Vegas Family Travel Planning & Logistics
Best time to visit Las Vegas with kids
For the best Vegas experience, visit during spring or fall, when the weather's nice and the crowds are smaller. There's less of a party scene if you book mid-week, too.
Where to stay
- MGM Grand
MGM Grand is a favourite for a reason: Families love it for its massive pool complex and central location.
- Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas offers easy access to attractions sans all that chaos of the Strip.
- Caesars Palace
Caesars Palace offers spacious rooms and easy access to attractions like The Forum Shops and other kid-friendly activities.
Getting around with kids
Though the Strip is fairly walkable, looks can be deceiving. The distance from one resort to the next might be longer than you expect, especially if you're covering ground with little legs. That said, many hotels do offer indoor walkways, which can be real life-savers on those high-heat days.
Budget tips, free hotel and casino amenities, pools
Look for hotels with pools, free attractions, and family-friendly amenities baked in. Many casinos and resorts offer free shows and experiences with no admission fees.
Safety & suitability with kids
Stick to popular tourist areas during the daytime. While most resorts are family-friendly, some are slightly more adult-oriented and host events and activities that may not be suitable for little ones.
What to wear and what to bring
Pack sunscreen, light and comfortable clothing, and walking shoes are essential. Bring refillable water bottles with you everywhere you go. Consider bringing along a stroller for the youngest wolves in your pack in case their tiny feet get tired from wandering through the chaos of Vegas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Las Vegas safe for kids?
Las Vegas has a reputation of being an adult playground. But Las Vegas kid attractions in 2025 prove that there's plenty of safe and fun family-friendly activities in Las Vegas, including amusement parks, the aquarium, and so many other ideas. Strapped for ideas? Scroll up.
What age are Cirque du Soleil shows suitable for children?
Most Cirque du Soleil shows are best suited for kids aged 5 and older. Though some are suitable for children, they may have darker or adult themes that can startle or upset them. Ultimately, you know your children best: do your research beforehand to get an idea of what the show is about to draw your own conclusions.
Are there free things to do in Las Vegas with kids?
Yes, there are plenty of free activities to do with kids in Las Vegas! Most resorts have free hotel attractions like indoor playground, seasonal installations, and even live entertainment options. Wandering the Strip is free and lots of fun: kids will be delighted by all the sounds and sights the Strip has to offer. And if you're looking to stay closer to the downtown core, look out for Las Vegas's kid theme parks.
What are indoor things to do in Las Vegas for kids on a hot day?
Check out the city's indoor activities like interactive museums, arcades, family-friendly shows, and even movie theaters. Everyone deserves to stay cool and happy on your Vegas vacation.
Where should families stay in Las Vegas with kids?
Family-friendly resorts like MGM Grand and Caesars Palace are popular choices for families because of their spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and proximity to other great spots in the city.
Can you find kids-friendly meals or menus in Las Vegas?
You sure can. Many restaurants offer kids' menus, flexible dining options, and familiar favorites. When in doubt, there are also plenty of food courts so you're sure to keep everyone fed without a fuss.
How long should you stay in Las Vegas with kids?
Our recommendation is three to four days tops. That gives you enough time to enjoy the city's main attractions, spend time by the pool, and take in shows, without overwhelming young travelers. Quality over quantity is the way to go.
We'll see you (and the kids) in Las Vegas
Sure, Las Vegas is the land of bright lights and winning nights. But there's more to this city than gambling, drinking, and partying.
From its endless free attractions and indoor escapes to outdoor adventures and age-specific activities, you'll find that there's more to Vegas than meets the eye. All it takes is a little planning—and perhaps some patience from parents—to see that families will also find Las Vegas surprisingly family-friendly.
So whether you're here with toddlers, pre-teens, or teens, you'll no doubt create some lasting memories together. If you're looking to add a touch of wonder to your trip, don't forget about us! Our acrobats will put on a spectacular show for your family at one of our Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas. You and your kids will talk about this trip, and the show you saw, for ages.