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An Unexpectedly Delightful and Affordable Family Vacation?

The Price of air travel is soaring, but there are still ways to stretch your vacation dollars, and one rather unexpected destination that may offer your family a relatively inexpensive but incredibly fun vacation opportunity is Las Vegas. Vegas is often thought of as a destination for adults, but that’s not the case anymore! If you think Las Vegas is only for gamblers and party-goers, think again! There’s a shocking amount of entertaining and educational things for families to do in “Not always so Sinful City”, and with proper planning it can be a great place to take a vacation that’s both fun and affordable.

Getting There

Because so many of the major US air carriers operate multiple flights a day in and out of Las Vegas it’s still possible to find a relatively inexpensive flights(sometimes even dirt cheap!) Deals can be found especially if you’re willing to fly off peak hours (early morning flights in and out of Vegas tend to be the least expensive.)

Hotels

When booking hotels in Vegas, keep in mind several of the resorts are affiliated with major hotel chains and do allow you to book using hotel points! MGM resorts are affiliated with Hyatt, Resort World is affiliated with Hilton Hotels, and Marriott has several properties on and around the strip. When staying at any of the resorts, be sure to sign up for a player’s card regardless of whether you plan on gambling, money spent at the resort will earn you players points! You would be amazed at the offers and perks the casinos provide their players. If you do plan to try your luck gambling, it’s important to note that it’s not just about how much you’re playing with but how long you’re playing. Also note, table games tend to weigh less heavily than slots when it comes to earning reward points and the various perks the resorts offer.

Dining

With over 2,000 restaurants to choose from, Las Vegas is a foodie’s paradise, there is something for everyone, no matter what your taste or budget. From world-class fine dining to casual eateries, Las Vegas has it all. 

Child Care

Most of the resorts can even assist you with booking reliable, vetted childcare, so Mom and Dad can even find a little time to explore while the kids are well taken care of! We’ve had unbelievable luck with childcare providers that MGM has helped us find, we’re talking super nannie’s that show up with a bag of age appropriate toys and games who the kids adore!

Activities and Entertainment

Here are just a few of the things you can do with your family in Las Vegas:

Bellagio Conservatory and Art Gallery

• Visit the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: This stunning garden is FREE to visit and is open 24 hours a day, so you can enjoy it no matter what time of day you’re in town. Be sure to check out the exquisite Chihuly glass chandeliers in the hotel’s lobby.

Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Las Vegas

The Art Gallery at Bellagio is a paid exhibit and is known for bringing in extraordinary exhibits.

• See a show: Las Vegas is home to some of the best shows in the world, from Cirque du Soleil to Blue Man Group. There’s something for everyone, so be sure to check out the show schedule before you go.

Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas

• Ride the rides at New York New York, Stratosphere, or Circus Circus: This indoor theme park has a variety of rides for kids of all ages, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a Ferris wheel.

Circus Circus roller coasters in Las Vegas

• Visit the High Roller: This giant Ferris wheel offers  stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip. It’s a great way to see all the sights and attractions without having to walk very far.

High Roller in Las Vegas

Hang at your resorts pool!  Most Las Vegas hotels have pools, and like just about everything else in Vegas they tend to be next level, so you can cool off on a hot day. Some hotels even have water parks, so your kids can have a blast! Our favorite resorts pools are: Mandalay Bay- in addition to multiple regular pools they have a wave pool, lazy river, and plenty of shaded areas to hang out. MGM Grand – has a lovely lazy river and very fun tropical vibe. Golden Nugget Downtown has a waterslide that drops you through a shark tank!

Area 15

Area 15 is an incredible, immersive entertainment complex that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages. This innovative hub of creativity and exploration is perfect for families looking to enjoy a unique and unforgettable Las Vegas experience. Area 15 is home to a variety of intriguing art exhibits, many of which encourage interaction and exploration. Discover calming artworks that invite you to test your breathing or relax on comfy pillows, as well as more energetic installations that play dubstep and other lively tunes. The perfect mix of art and adventure, Area 15 offers something for everyone.

• Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart: This interactive art installation is a must-see for any visitor to AREA15. It is a sprawling supermarket that has been taken      over by an alien invasion. Visitors can explore the store and find hidden passageways, puzzles, and other surprises.
• Lost Spirits Distillery: This distillery offers tours and tastings of its award-winning spirits. Visitors can also learn about the history of the distillery and its unique distilling process.
•  Particle Quest: This interactive science exhibit challenges visitors to explore the world of physics and chemistry. Visitors can participate in hands-on experiments and learn about the science behind everyday objects.
• Virtualis VR: This virtual reality experience allows visitors to explore different worlds and scenarios. Visitors can choose from a variety of experiences, including flying through the Grand Canyon, exploring a haunted house, or playing a game of laser tag.
• Wink World: This immersive art installation is a sensory experience that will transport visitors to a new world. Visitors can explore the installation and interact with the art in a variety of ways.

Stratosphere Rides: Thrills in the Sky

Stratosphere Rides in Las Vegas: The Stratosphere, now known as The STRAT, offers some of the most thrilling experiences in Las Vegas. With its iconic SkyPod and adrenaline-pumping rides, the Stratosphere is a must-visit attraction for families seeking excitement.

• SkyPod:      Breathtaking Views The SkyPod stands tall at 1,149 feet, offering stunning      panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. Kids and adults alike will love      the opportunity to take in the city from this incredible vantage point.
• Thrill Rides:      XScream, Big Shot, and Insanity For the ultimate adrenaline rush, look no      further than the Stratosphere’s trio of thrill rides: XScream, Big Shot,      and Insanity. Each ride offers its own unique brand of excitement, from      shooting straight up into the sky to dangling over the edge of the SkyPod.

NY NY Rides: Roller Coasters and More

New York-New York Rides in Las Vegas: The New York-New York Hotel & Casino offers a taste of the Big Apple right in the heart of Las Vegas. With its thrilling roller coaster and other exciting attractions, NY NY is an excellent destination for families seeking adventure.

• The Big Apple Coaster     One of the most popular attractions at NY NY is the Big Apple Coaster, a      thrilling roller coaster that takes riders on a heart-pounding journey      through twists, turns, and loops, all while offering stunning views of the      Las Vegas Strip.
• Arcade Games and Family Fun In addition to the Big Apple Coaster, NY NY features a      variety of arcade games and other family-friendly attractions. From      classic carnival games to the latest video game releases, there’s      something for everyone at this exciting destination.

Transfix: A Unique Art Experience: Transfix is an innovative art exhibit that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. With its mesmerizing visuals and immersive installations, Transfix is an excellent destination for families looking to explore the world of art in a unique and engaging way. 

· Calming Artworks and Interactive Experiences Transfix features a variety of calming artworks and interactive experiences, perfect for families seeking a peaceful and introspective experience. From breathing exercises to relaxing on pillows, Transfix offers a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. 

· High-Energy Installations and Loud Artworks For those seeking a more lively experience, Transfix also features high-energy installations and loud artworks, perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in a world of sensory excitement.

Waterpark: Dive into Fun

A trip to Las Vegas isn’t complete without a visit to one of the city’s incredible waterparks. With thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and plenty of opportunities to splash and play, waterparks are the perfect destination for families looking to cool off and have fun.

Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas: This is a popular waterpark that offers a variety of exciting attractions for visitors of all ages. From thrilling slides to relaxing lazy rivers, Wet’n’Wild is an excellent destination for families seeking a refreshing and fun-filled experience.

Cowabunga Bay: Another fantastic waterpark option is Cowabunga Bay, which features a retro surf theme and plenty of exciting attractions. With its thrilling slides, wave pool, and fun-filled splash pad, Cowabunga Bay is a must-visit destination for families in Las Vegas.

Museums: Learning and Fun Combined

Las Vegas is home to a wide range of fascinating museums, perfect for families seeking a fun and educational experience. From natural history to interactive exhibits, there’s a museum for everyone in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: The Las Vegas Natural History Museum offers a captivating look at the world’s natural wonders, from dinosaurs to desert ecosystems. With its interactive exhibits and engaging displays, this museum is an excellent destination for families seeking an educational and entertaining experience.

 Las Vegas Children’s Museum in Las Vegas Another great option for families in Las Vegas is the Discovery Children’s Museum, which offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Kids will love exploring the museum’s various themed areas, from science and technology to art and culture.

Mob Museum in Las Vegas: This museum tells the story of organized crime in America through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. 

• The Museum of Organized Crime: This exhibit tells the      story of organized crime in America from its early days to the present.
• The Law Enforcement History: This exhibit tells the      story of law enforcement’s efforts to fight organized crime.
• The Mob Speakeasy: This exhibit is a recreation of a      Prohibition-era speakeasy.
• The Underground Tunnels: The museum has a network of      underground tunnels that were once used by organized crime figures.

Neon Museum: This museum is home to a collection of vintage neon signs. It is a great place to learn about the history of Las Vegas and see some of the most iconic signs from the city.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Las Vegas Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: This park is home to a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing areas, and wildlife. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas and enjoy the outdoors.

The Hunger Games Exhibition

A Journey into the World of Panem: Fans of The Hunger Games series will love the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Panem at the MGM Grand’s Hunger Games Exhibition. With set recreations, interactive activities, and plenty of opportunities to channel your inner Katniss, this exhibition is a must-visit destination for families who love the popular franchise.

• Archery Skills and Propaganda Commercials: Put your archery skills to the test and create your own rebellion propaganda commercial at The Hunger Games Exhibition. This  interactive experience offers a unique and exciting look into the world of the beloved series.
• Set Recreations and Costumes: Visitors can also explore detailed set recreations  and admire authentic costumes from the films, providing an up-close look      at the incredible world of The Hunger Games.

Marvel Avengers Experience in Las Vegas:

S.T.A.T.I.O.N Located at Treasure Island, the Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N is an interactive exhibit that offers fans of the comic series an exciting opportunity to explore the world of their favorite superheroes. From costumes and equipment to hands-on activities, this attraction is a must-visit for Marvel enthusiasts.

 Eiffel Tower Experience in Las Vegas: Experience the magic of Paris right in the heart of Las Vegas with a visit to the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. Ascend 46 stories to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Bellagio Fountains.

Aquarium at Mandalay Bay

The aquarium has exhibits featuring over 1,200 species of fish in a variety of marine habitats, including the Amazon rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Pacific Ocean.

Helicopter Tours: A Bird’s-Eye View of Las Vegas

Las Vegas Strip Helicopter Tour in Las Vegas

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a helicopter tour of the Las Vegas Strip or surrounding attractions like the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. With prices starting at around $115 per person, a helicopter tour is a thrilling and memorable way to take in the sights of Las Vegas.

As you can see, Las Vegas offers a wealth of fun and affordable activities for families, ensuring an unforgettable vacation experience. From thrilling amusement park rides and fascinating museums to immersive art installations and breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible family adventure in Las Vegas!

And best of all, Las Vegas can be a very affordable family vacation destination. There are many ways to save money, such as booking your hotel in advance, taking advantage of package deals, and using coupons and discounts.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your family vacation to Las Vegas today!