The Kid Friendly Guide to Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known as the “9th Hawaiian Island” to us locals, and coincidentally I’ve been to Vegas about 5 times before the magical age of 21. (I’ve been to Vegas once at the legal age and had so much sober fun I didn’t even drink. Semi-fail; a redo trip is in the works!)

I remember the many nights of hanging with my sister in hotel rooms while my parents gambled the night away; the bright daylight hours was filled with shopping and kid-friendly adventures that still puts Vegas at a fond place in my heart. Thus here are 12 kid/teen friendly activities in Las Vegas that are sure to be a good time; many my own personal favorites!

1. Adventuredome Theme Park

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This was a hotspot frequented by my sister and I, and it was so much fun as a young child as well as a teenager. Located at the Circus Circus hotel, this tiny theme park has 25 rides and attractions that are sure to keep your kids occupied for hours. With miniature golf, an arcade, and even a full-size rollercoaster, this indoor fun-zone will not disappoint.

2. M&M World

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Located on the strip next to the MGM Grand is M&M world; a chocolate lovers paradise and a fun place to quell a sweet tooth. With 4 stories of candy, I don’t know what kid wouldn’t enjoy this place. It’s also a nice place for fun souvenirs and M&M memorabilia.

3. Shark Reef aquarium

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Located at Mandalay Bay, this attraction features 14 exhibits of exotic sea creatures ranging from sharks, to piranhas, crocodiles, and even a komodo dragon! There’s also a touch pool and a walk-through tunnel that are fan-favorites.

4. New york new york coaster and arcade

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Being a coaster fanatic I had to try the rollercoaster that is so visible on the strip, located at the New York New York hotel. Inside the hotel before the coaster entrance is a large arcade, well placed for those that might find the loop-de-loop coaster too intimidating.

5. Circus acts & Carnival Midway

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Also located at the Circus Circus hotel are on-going circus acts and a huge midway encircling the entire center stage. This is also a place I remember spending hours at, it’s one of my favorite hotels! (It also happens to be where I won my first few hundred dollars from gambling; I’m a little biased!)

6. Tournament of kings

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Located at the Excalibur hotel, this is the ultimate dinner and show experience. Fitting in with the medieval theme of the hotel, cheer on valiant knights while feasting on chicken legs with your three course meal. Excalibur hotel also features a midway type of area known as The Fun Dungeon.

7. Fountains at the bellagio

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This is a fun little stop while walking the strip; a nightly water show every 15-30 minutes that’s mesmerizing to watch.

8. Freemont street experience

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This is a family favorite in downtown Las Vegas, and a free-event; double bonus! With 12.5 million lights overhead, crowds flock here nightly to catch a glimpse of the electric show.

9. Fly with Slotzilla

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Also located at Freemont is a zip lining experience called Slotzilla. Strap up 12 stories above the crowds and zip out of the largest slot machine in the world. We’ve done it and it’s awesome to fly downtown sandwiched between all those lights and all those people.

10. Ride a gondola

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Located at The Venetian is the opportunity to live out your Italian fantasies and ride a gondola through the canals. This was so fun to do as a family, but also can be very romantic! (I saw a proposal here! *Sigh!*) You also get serenaded by your gondola rower!

11. High Roller at the linq

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One of the only things on this list that I haven’t done yet, but I’m really dying to try it! Reaching 550 feet and located at The Linq (Cesar’s Palace), this is the world’s tallest observation wheel and takes a full half hour to complete a rotation. I’m itching to catch a night ride; the views are probably nothing short of insane.

12. Thrill rides at the stratosphere tower

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For the older kids/teenagers that love thrill seeking rides, head to the Stratosphere Tower, which features 4 heart-racing rides that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Tried any of these kid friendly activities? Let me know of any others!