Located in the southern area of the state of Nevada, Las Vegas provides a variety of activities including hiking, education and family-friendly options. Whether you're traveling to explore the famous strip for the very first time, go hiking in the Red Rock Canyon or meet your favorite celebrity in Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, there is plenty to see and do in this busy city.
Aquariums and Zoos
Located at the Mirage Hotel, the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat opened in 1990 under the guidance of Siegfried and Roy. While at the habitat, view dolphins, tigers and lions. Be a trainer for the day while learning about the health and eating patterns of the mammals.
Also located on the strip is the Shark Reef at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. The reef provides 2,000 tropical fish, sharks, stingrays and sea turtles. Explore the aquarium while participating in an audio tour or visiting with a naturalist.
Children's Activities
Las Vegas might not appear child-friendly, but many age-appropriate activities are located on the strip and nearby. Experience a heart-pumping roller coaster ride at the New York-New York Hotel, or shoot to the top of the 1,149 feet Stratosphere Tower at the Straosphere Hotel. Children 16 years old or older may enjoy racing cars at the Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix, located on Rainbow Boulevard. Some rides do have certain height requirements.
Canyons and Preservations
Situated 20 miles outside Las Vegas is the Red Rock Canyon, where you can hike on designated trails, view the 3,000-feet cliffs and stumble across various waterfalls. Wildlife can be found throughout the area, including mountain lions, bobcats and bighorn sheep. The canyon is open year round, according to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation.
Walking trails, educational programs and views of the desert are available at the Springs Preserve located on Valley View Boulevard. While at the preserve, learn about the Mojave Desert and dig for fossils.
Tourist Attractions
Las Vegas is filled with tourist attractions. Open daily, the Hoover Dam is a National Historical Landmark that attracts thousands of tourists each year. Walk along the observation area and view the massive construction, the Colorado River and Lake Mead, or participate in a guided tour of the power plant.
If staying on the strip, walk down to the Fountains of Bellagio at the Bellagio Las Vegas Hotel. This ever-changing choreographed water show is free of charge and occurs daily every half-hour.
Museums
Situated on the Las Vegas Boulevard, the Las Vegas Natural Museum offers eight exhibits. Learn about the African jungle and experience a jungle thunderstorm in the Las Vegas Founders' African Galleries, and view prehistoric reptiles and dinosaurs in the Engelstad Family Prehistoric Life Gallery.
If you've ever been curious about what your favorite celebrities look like up close, stroll over to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum on Las Vegas Boulevard. Celebrities range from George Clooney to Jennifer Lopez and President Obama.
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