Although it may be known as "Sin City," Las Vegas features much more than just luxury casinos and risque performances by scantily clad showgirls. The entire family can enjoy a variety of fun things to do and see, including high-wire acts, circus acts, sporting venues, public parks and children's museums. So, step away from the casinos and spend some time with your kids at any of the family-friendly attractions in Las Vegas.
Animal Attractions
Your family may enjoy seeing dolphins and tigers at Siegfried and Roy Dolphin Encounter and Secret Garden at the Mirage Hotel and Casino as well as visiting the MGM Grand free lion habitat or the 1117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium at the Silverton Hotel. Watch as majestic lions are hand-fed by experienced trainers or women dressed as mermaids swim among tropical fish, stingrays and sharks during free shows. Children can learn about numerous species of wildlife and marine animals as trainers and educators provide informational narratives during shows and public feeding sessions.
Bowling
Escape the casinos and enjoy some old-fashioned family fun at one of the many bowling alleys situated throughout downtown Las Vegas, such as Sam's Town, Lucky Strike at the Rio and Sunset Station. Establishments range from high-tech venues with pro shops, cocktails lounges, child-care services, video arcades and full-service restaurants to traditional facilities with multiple lanes and classic snack bars.
Tennis
Teach your youngsters to play tennis in the hometown of Grand Slam Champion Andre Agassi. The tennis courts at Bally's and the Flamingo Las Vegas are available to hotel guests as well as the public at several hotels along the Strip. In addition to lighted courts, on-site pro shops provide equipment rentals and lessons. Approximately 15 minutes from downtown Las Vegas, the Darlington Tennis Center features 23 lighted public hard courts. Courts can be reserved for a low fee and the facility designates several hours each week to allow kids to play free on the courts.
Swimming
Kids can enjoy playing or swimming in the hotel pool, while adults can relax and take advantage of poolside food and beverage service. Some hotels, such as the Tropicana Resort and Casino, offer designated children's swim areas or have complex water features, including fountains, slides and waterfalls like the extensive pool complex at Mandalay Bay. Soak in some healthy vitamin D from the sun but remember to re-apply sunscreen when your family is out of the water.
The Strip
Your family can combine exercise with sightseeing and enjoy some of the most entertaining attractions in Las Vegas by walking along the Strip. Luxury casinos compete for business with increasingly dramatic displays, such as an erupting volcano at the Mirage, elaborate fountain shows at the Bellagio and Caesars Palace, guided gondola rides at the Venetian and giant replicas of international landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower at Bally's. In addition to the hotels and casinos, numerous family-friendly restaurants, amusement parks, shops and arcades are located in the downtown area.
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