I know, I know. It’s called “Sin City” for a reason. But hear me out- after living in Las Vegas for almost 8 months now, both my kids and I haven’t been bored.
There is way more to Las Vegas than just gambling, parties, and the heat. Before having kids, I would see parents with their young children on the strip and I would say to myself “why on earth would you bring your kids here?” But now I know!
Whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or visiting with your family in tow, Las Vegas has a ton of kid-friendly things to do that go way beyond the slot machines. In fact, there’s so much to do that you just might find yourself planning a return trip.
While most of my recommendations are located off of the strip- let’s dive into the best spots to explore when you’re bringing kids to Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Strip
Do I think the strip is the place for kids at dark? Meh. probably not (no judgement if that’s what you prefer!)
But do I think the strip is fun for kids during the day? Absolutely! My kids love the lights, music, people, characters.
All of the hotels are decorated and have such great ‘themes’ that are fun for even kids to see.
Here are some more specific fun kid-friendly activities on the strip:
- Bellagio Fountain Show – Totally free and runs every 15–30 minutes depending on time of day. Magical for kids!
- Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden – Right inside the Bellagio, this is a floral wonderland that changes with the seasons. It’s stroller-friendly and totally mesmerizing.
- High Roller Observation Wheel – Older kids will love this, and younger ones will be thrilled just watching it from the LINQ Promenade.
- Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay – This indoor aquarium is a calm, cool, and quiet way to see sharks, sea turtles, and even a Komodo Dragon. It’s stroller friendly and easy to walk through under an hour.
Keep your walk light, stay hydrated, and time it early evening before the crowds (and questionable street performers) come out in full force. All of the hotels have A/C blasting, so if you get too hot, you can always pull over into a hotel/casino to cool off.
Springs Preserve
If you only do one thing in Vegas with your kids- make it this. Springs Preserve is an oasis in the desert (literally and metaphorically). Think botanical gardens, interactive science exhibits, trails to wander, a splash pad in the warmer months, and my kids favorite: a train ride.
Go early in the day and bring snacks, water, and a change of clothes (if you plan to use the splash pad).
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Just 25 minutes from the strip, Red Rock is breathtaking and perfect for little explorers. Take a scenic drive or choose one of the shorter hikes like Lost Creek or Willow Springs, which are great for little legs.
The scenic drive is absolutely beautiful and there are multiple look-out spots where you can pull over to take some pictures without actually hiking.
There’s also a visitor center with hands-on exhibits that explain the desert landscape- perfect if it’s too hot or windy to hike.
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
Located next to Red Rock, this hidden gem has grassy fields, historic buildings, and often live outdoor performances. Pack a picnic and let the kids run wild.
This is one of those spots that feels like you’re not even in Vegas.
We’ve seen cows, burros, lizards, and bunnies here! The overlook loop is perfect for toddlers/young kids to walk and see the sights.
Discovery Children’s Museum
Your kids will lose their little minds here. This place is 3 floors of hands-on learning, building, water play, imaginative play, and climbing.
It’s the holy grail of indoor play- air-conditioned, clean, and just chaotic enough to tire them out by 3 p.m.
My kids loved the water-play station and the mini town! I mean- what toddler doesn’t love to play in water?! The museum even provides jackets to put over your clothes so you’re not wet from the water play.
The mini town has make-believe stations like, a hospital, bank, grocery store, airport, dentist office, etc. We spent the majority of our time here!
There are also learning/hands-on classes scheduled throughout the day if you’d like to schedule one of those in.
Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire is about an hour-long drive from Las Vegas. the rock formations look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book, and there are short trails and petroglyphs everywhere.
While some hikes can be too much for young kids, there are definitely some trails that even toddlers can do! Read more about our day trip to Vally of Fire here!
Go early in the morning, especially in warmer months. There’s very little shade, but the views are unforgettable.
Playgrounds and Splash Pads
Vegas knows how to keep cool when it gets HOT. There are splash pads and playgrounds everywhere, especially in the suburbs.
Playgrounds usually come covered with shade and the splash pads are great for cooling off without having to worry about your young kids around a pool.
A few of my favorites:
- Paseos Park: The park has a nice grassy area, and the splash pad is huge and partially shaded.
- South Tower Park: The park has a “big” and “little” park, and has a splash pad between the two.
- Fox Hill Park: This is such an unconventional park! It’s super spread out and is built basically for kids who love to climb. There are slides built into the ground and two zip lines!
Downtown Summerlin
This open-air shopping center is great for families. It has wide walking paths, splash fountains, seasonal events, and plenty of food options that aren’t just fast food.
It’s stroller-friendly, has shaded areas, and enough activity to keep everyone entertained without the overstimulation of the Strip.
The store selection is great- and the food selection is even better!
Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa
If you’re looking to stay somewhere family-approved with Vegas flair, Red Rock Casino is your place. It’s fancy enough for the grown-ups but totally kid-friendly.
There’s a movie theater, bowling alley, arcade, and one of the best pools in town. Plus, the location is perfect- right near Red Rock Canyon and Downtown Summerlin.
Town Square Las Vegas
If you’re looking for a place that’s equal parts fun for kids and sanity-saving for moms, Town Square Las Vegas is it. This open-air shopping center offers way more than just shops!
Right in the heart of the center is the Children’s Park, a fenced-in playground with a treehouse, hedge maze, splash pad, and soft turf that’s easy on little knees. It’s shaded, clean, and safe- so you can actually sit down for five seconds without fearing a toddler jailbreak.
Another great place that has good shopping and great food options!
Final Thoughts: Las Vegas, But Make It Kid-Friendly
Vegas can be family-friendly- you just have to know where to go. From nature hikes and interactive museums to splash pads and scenic drives, this city is full of surprises for families.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend adventure or planning a vacation to Las Vegas with kids, you can absolutely build an itinerary that’s fun and engaging.
So go ahead…. book the trip. Vegas isn’t just for grown-ups anymore.