10 Fun family-friendly activities in Las Vegas

The Entertainment Capital of the World might be most famous for its casinos and late-night party scene, but Las Vegas is also a great place for a family vacation. With lots of fun attractions on offer, from buggy chase adventures in the desert dunes to tasty treats at Hershey’s World, there’s plenty to keep kids of all ages amused.

Check out some of the best places to visit near LV, like the Grand Canyon, or discover some of the city’s hidden gems that will captivate young minds, like the Discovery Children’s Museum. Each of the 10 family-friendly things to do on this list are sure to be a highlight of your little ones’ Vegas adventure.

1. Travel back in time to Pangea at Dino Safari

Most children are fascinated by dinosaurs, so a Dino Safari Adventure will capture their imagination. This interactive experience offers a realistic depiction of the prehistoric world inhabited by these magnificent creatures, complete with an audio guide, virtual reality displays, and life-size reconstructions.

Who is it best for?

This experience is perfect for kids up to their early teens. Admission is free for children under 3.

Address and opening hours:

3645 Las Vegas Blvd S Suite 13-17, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

2. Have outdoor fun at the Valley of Fire State Park

A guided tour of the Valley of Fire State Park makes for some quality family time outdoors. This Valley of Fire guided hiking tour from Las Vegas is an educational experience that gets children close to nature, as they take their time to discover hidden petroglyphs and ancient red rock formations. A chance to breathe fresh air and enjoy an outdoor adventure as a family.

Who is it best for?

Choose the easy 4-hour hike when you book, as this is suitable for kids over 8 years old. Spring and fall are the best times to visit as the heat isn’t too intense.

Address and opening hours:

Moapa Valley, NV 89040. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. Visitor center opening hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

3. Rev up the fun with a family-friendly dune buggy chase adventure

Get everyone buckled up and take them on an adrenaline-pumping adventure riding the dunes of the Las Vegas desert. After a safety training video, you’ll be ready to navigate the desert’s rugged terrain and conquer the challenges ahead while the kids root for you and have a blast in the back.

Who is it best for?

The Mini Baja Dune Buggy Chase Adventure is open to families with children who are at least 4 years old. Go early in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer.

4. Go swimming in Emerald Cave

Escape the heat and the crowds with a kayak tour of the Colorado River. The tranquil waters of Emerald Cave are a safe and pleasant spot for kids to paddle and go for a refreshing swim. This guided tour of the Colorado River highlights is also great for wildlife spotting.

Who is it best for?

The Emerald Cave half-day kayak tour makes a great day out for families with children aged 6 and over. The best months to do it are from April to October.

5. Share an epic medieval adventure at the Tournament of Kings Show

Everyone in the family will be glued to their seats as this medieval-themed adventure unfolds before their eyes. The Tournament of Kings show at Excalibur takes you back to the time of King Arthur and his famous knights, thanks to an impressive show of music and special effects. A fit-for-royalty medieval feast is also included.

Who is it best for?

This show is suitable for children of all ages. Those under the age of 3 get free admission, but they must seat on a parent’s lap during the performance.

Address and opening hours:

3850 South Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Dates and times vary from month to month.

6. Non-stop family fun at The Adventuredome

In addition to exhilarating coaster rides, the Adventuredome offers all varieties of fun in the shape of laser maze challenges, pirate-themed miniature golf, virtual reality games, indoor bungee jumping, and more.

Who is it best for?

Some rides are restricted by height or require children to be accompanied by an adult.

Address and opening hours:

2880 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Opening hours vary throughout the year. Check the official website for current details.

7. A sweet family adventure with the Las Vegas underground donut tour

Treat the young ones in the family to a sweet sightseeing experience with a special guided walking tour of downtown Las Vegas. Get four exclusive tastings at some of the finest donut shops in Vegas and indulge your taste buds with the best sweet treats in town. The Las Vegas Underground Donut Tour takes 2 hours, so it’s best to schedule it around your family’s usual mealtimes.

Who is it best for?

Any kid or adult who loves donuts and can handle the sugar rush. As it is a walking tour over 2 hours, it might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

8. Unleash the magic at Discovery Children’s Museum

Head to the Discovery Children’s Museum for an educational and inspiring indoor adventure. The museum offers three floors devoted to learning through experimentation, where children can solve puzzles, discover fun facts about science, and create their own pieces of art at the museum’s maker space.

Who is it best for?

There are interactive exhibits designed for all children aged 0-12, and since this is an indoor venue, it’s a great option if you’re in Las Vegas on a rainy or very hot day.

Address and opening hours:

360 Promenade Pl, Las Vegas, NV 89106. Open daily, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays and Monday closures at certain times of the year.

9. Take flight with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour

A scenic helicopter flight over one of the world’s natural wonders is something your family will remember forever. This Grand Canyon helicopter landing tour departs from Las Vegas and take you on a fabulous trip over volcanic mountains, the Mojave Desert and the awe-inspiring wilderness of the Grand Canyon.

Who is it best for?

As per FAA safety regulations, children above the age of two must sit in their designated seat during the ride.

10. Get a taste of Hershey's Chocolate World

Step into a world of sweet indulgence and experience the magic of Hershey's Chocolate World. This tasty shop is home to 13,000 square feet of chocolatey goodness and up to seven themed experiences, including experimenting with ingredients and creating a personalized chocolate bar wrapper. For true chocolate lovers, a tour of Vegas’s chocolate and dessert hotspots is a must — you’ll also visit M&M’s World and Pink Box Doughnuts.

Who is it best for?

Chocaholics young and old will love the stops on the tour and choosing their tasty souvenirs.

Address and opening hours:

3790 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Open daily, 9:00 AM to midnight.

FAQs

What are some of the top family-friendly attractions in Las Vegas?

Must-dos during a family holiday in Las Vegas include going to the Adventuredome at Circus Circus, visiting the Discovery Children’s Museum, and getting tickets to the Tournament of Kings Show. Children will also love the Shark Reef Aquarium at the Mandalay Bay Hotel.

What are the best museums for kids in Las Vegas?

The Vegas Discovery Children's Museum is a top choice for kids, as they get to experience educational play and dabble in various hands-on activities. Another great option is the Natural History Museum, which has exhibits and activities specifically created for children.

What are some fun outdoor activities for kids in Las Vegas?

Cowabunga Canyon Waterpark is a fantastic choice during a summer visit to Las Vegas. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, take the kids for a stroll at Sunset Park and enjoy a family picnic under the palm trees.

What are some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences to have in Las Vegas with kids?

The Valley of Fire State Park ranks high among local families and tourists, thanks to its spectacular rock formations and petroglyphs. Another unique experience is Dig This, where children can have a go at operating a mini excavator with the help of their parents.

What are some fun day trips from Las Vegas that are suitable for families with kids?

A trip to Lake Mead is ideal to escape the heat and enjoy quality time as a family. Day trips to Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam, or helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon are other excellent options for a day out with the kids.