A few weeks ago, I spent a week in Las Vegas for my daughter’s national dance competition. In a dizzying whirlwind of end-of-the-school-year activities and final rehearsals, we promptly finished up first grade and headed straight across the country. So, I had limited time to wrap my head around what, if anything, we might do during our free time in Vegas.
Ironically enough, the only other time I had been there was 20 years earlier, for my own dance nationals. I’ve never gone with friends as an adult or to celebrate a birthday or a bachelorette. So I was wholly unfamiliar with the area, let alone the hot-spots or must-sees, and even less with what to do with a 6-year-old in tow.
A majority of our time was taken up largely by dancing (they crushed it!), award ceremonies, and cheering on our teammates, but we still had some time to explore all the Strip has to offer, and it left me truly surprised at just how kid-friendly Las Vegas can be. In fact, I left wishing we had even more time to explore. (And yes, wishing we also had a babysitter for a night or two, too.)
Here are some of the family-friendly highlights we got to experience while in Las Vegas, some activities we really wish we did, and a few other really cool things to do and see in Las Vegas with kids.
What to know about visiting Vegas with kids
Las Vegas is undoubtedly designed for adults, by adults, so as long as you keep that in mind when you plan your travels and spend your time there, the better off you’ll be. Keep an open mind and keep those reflexes sharp, too, for when you might have to quickly change course to avoid some questionable characters or slyly flip around raunchy merch (like a mug shaped like a breast or a pen shaped like a penis—I speak from experience).
Being quick on your feet also comes in handy in Vegas with kids. For example, my 6-year-old is an endless bundle of questions and has excellent reading skills—so when you pair that with some Vegas billboards, you’ll need to come up with some quick answers to double entendres or even flat-out inappropriate phrases or sayings (i.e., “Yes, Magic Mike is a magic show”).
OK, now that’s out of the way. Let’s go.
Best Vegas hotels with kid-friendly pools
If your kiddo(s) are anything like mine, they’re mostly interested in ONE thing on vacation no matter where you are—the pool. Thankfully, Vegas has a ton to choose from, but you must choose wisely. Head to the wrong one you might just stumble upon foam parties, funnels, bathing suits that leave almost nothing to the imagination… you get the idea.
Here are some pools and hotels that are vetted to be kid-friendly either by myself, my friends, or good ‘ole word of mouth.
Mandalay Bay Beach
I’m listing this one first for a reason—it’s the best (IMHO). With a real sand beach, a massive wave pool, and a lazy river, Mandalay Bay brings a full-on tropical waterpark vibe to the Strip. Bring buckets and floaties—it’s a kid favorite.
MGM Grand Pool Complex
This is basically a mini water park. With four pools, three whirlpools, a lazy river, and plenty of shaded cabanas, there’s room to roam and splash without the chaos. Pro tip: They allow floaties in the lazy river!
Tahiti Village Resort Pool
Just off the Strip, this family-focused resort has a zero-entry pool (great for toddlers), a real sand beach entry, and a lazy river with waterfalls and grottos. It’s a quieter, calmer contender and more laid-back experience.
Excalibur Pool
Keeping with its family-friendly theme, Excalibur offers multiple pools, a waterslide, and plenty of shaded loungers. It’s not fancy, but it’s affordable and fun for all ages.
Circus Circus Splash Zone
This is where the party’s at for little ones. The Splash Zone features water slides, spray grounds, and multiple pools, making it more like a mini water park than a typical hotel pool. Bring snacks and sunscreen—you’ll be here awhile.
Iconic kid-friendly Las Vegas experiences
DISCOVERY Children’s Museum
This one is pretty much a layup. This place is three floors of pure childhood joy. From a water play zone to an “eco city” where your kid can pretend to be a grocery clerk or firefighter, there’s something here for every mini-explorer. Bonus: it’s indoors, which means sweet, sweet air conditioning.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Sharks. Jellyfish. A tunnel that makes you feel like you’re swimming with sea creatures (without actually getting wet). It’s a hit with kids and a surprisingly zen break for parents.
The Adventuredome at Circus Circus
It’s like a mini theme park—indoors! Roller coasters, mini golf, bumper cars, and a clown or two for good measure. Great if you’re looking to burn some serious energy (or sugar).
Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
Think of it as a real-life fairy tale garden that changes with the seasons. Kids will love the oversized flowers, animal sculptures, and twinkly lights. And you’ll love that it’s free.
Springs Preserve
This underrated gem is part nature center, part science museum, and part desert trail wonderland. You can explore botanical gardens, ride a train, play outside, or check out live animal shows. Educational and entertaining? Win-win.
High Roller Observation Wheel
Hop into a pod and take a slow spin above the Strip! The 30-minute ride is smooth, scenic, and even has fun trivia. Kids are wowed by the height—and you get 360-degree views without any leg complaints.
M&M’s World Las Vegas
Four colorful floors of candy, merch, and even a short 3D movie. Your kids can meet Red and Yellow, make custom M&Ms, and totally melt down from joy (or sugar).
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York
Got thrill-seeking tweens or teens? This coaster zips through the NYC-themed hotel with big drops and loops. It’s a scream-fest (in a good way). Not ideal for littles, but a must for older kids!
AREA15
While some parts of AREA15 are more adult-focused, the outdoor LIFTOFF carnival ride and seasonal pop-ups are super kid-friendly. Think glow swings, cotton candy, and oversized games. Keep an eye on their event calendar!
Lesser-known kid friendly attractions in Las Vegas
Twilight Zone by Monster Mini Golf
A glow-in-the-dark mini golf spot, this Vegas family activity is themed around the Twilight Zone—but don’t worry, it’s spooky in a campy way, not scary. Add in arcade games and oddball décor, and you’ve got a winner for older kids and tweens. It’s nestled in the Horseshoe resort and casino, and just in case you feel like tying the knot or renewing your vows, it has its own Twilight Zone-themed chapel, too.
KISS by Monster Mini Golf
Another fun mini golf spot is KISS by Monster Mini Golf. Yes, it’s themed after the rock band KISS, but hear me out: this glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf course is quirky, silly, and full of neon fun. Calling the Rio Hotel & Casino home, there’s music, arcade games, and photo ops galore—your kids don’t need to know the band to love the vibe.
SeaQuest Las Vegas
Located inside the Boulevard Mall, SeaQuest is part aquarium, part petting zoo. Your kids can hand-feed stingrays, pet an iguana, or even book a slot to snorkel with tropical fish. It’s surprisingly immersive for its size.
Las Vegas Natural History Museum
This charming museum has dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, marine life, and even a room full of creepy crawlers (behind glass). It’s a hidden gem for young learners who love touching buttons and peeking into animal exhibits.
In short, Las Vegas with kids is totally doable—and honestly, pretty fun. With the right mix of excitement, education, and air conditioning, it’s a family vacation worth betting on. (Sorry, I had to.)
Lion Habitat Ranch
Want to see real lions up close? This nonprofit sanctuary in nearby Henderson lets kids observe lions and even meet Ozzie, the painting giraffe. It’s a quieter, more personal animal encounter compared to big zoos.
FAQs
Are kids allowed in Las Vegas shows?
You’ll definitely want to do your research before purchasing tickets and taking your kiddo to a show in Las Vegas. Some shows, like magic shows, are super kid-friendly. Others are absolutely not. (You can use your imagination here.) Google around for reviews, or even better, try to call the venue and ask someone who is involved with the show for their honest opinion.
Are Las Vegas hotels kid-friendly?
Surprisingly, there are a lot of hotels in Las Vegas that are kid-friendly. Some standouts include The Westgate, Caesars, The Flamingo, and Circus Circus.
Is it safe to walk the Strip with kids?
Walking the Strip with kids isn’t so much of a safety concern as it is a comfortability concern. It can get crowded, making stroller navigation a bit tough. There may be some street performers or signs and merchandise that you wouldn’t want little eyes to see or read, too. But that largely depends on where you’re headed and the time of day. You won’t regret taking the kids for an afternoon or early stroll—just be sure to see the fountains at the Bellagio—they’re a favorite amongst the under-10 set.
How do I get around Vegas with kids?
Vegas is a totally walkable city, though not super stroller friendly. They also have a monorail system that kids love and Ubers & Lyfts aplenty.
What should I pack for a Vegas trip with kids?
First things first, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need for your flight or drive. Whether it’s two hours or 12, be sure you’re stacked with enough snacks and family activities to make the journey to Las Vegas as smooth as possible. As far as what you’ll need when you get there, pretty much anything that will help you keep your kiddos cool and comfortable. It’s H-O-T. Like, really hot.
Erin Celletti, Contributing Writer
Erin is an NYC-based writer with a BA in Journalism from Quinnipiac University and two master’s degrees in education. She is a proud mama to a little girl and a lifestyle, beauty, wellness, and trends reports writer. Beyond The Everymom, Erin’s editorial work has been featured in publications like Bustle, Allure, Byrdie, The Everygirl, TeenVogue, BRIDES, Sunday Edit, and TODAY.
