While Las Vegas may be famous for its adult fare, it is also a very popular family travel destination. The city hosts a number of kid-friendly options including restaurants and entertainment that are sure to keep your children happy.
Thrill Rides
If your child is looking for some excitement while on vacation, Las Vegas hosts a number of choices that will keep them on the edge of their seat. X-Scream, a thrill ride at the top of the Stratosphere Hotel & Casino, plays on the fear of falling as the ride plunges suddenly after rising 900 feet into the air.
New York, New York Hotel & Casino has a ride with a telltale name: The Roller Coaster. This coaster lifts you 203 feet in the air, delivers a sudden drop, then takes you on a 180 degree turn, simulating a jet fighter's barrel roll. You can even capture the moment on film with a souvenir photo taken at 67 mph.
Make sure to check your child's measurements ahead of time, though. Both rides have a height requirement of 54 inches.
Tasty Treats
For a meal with a little ambiance, try dining at the Rainforest Cafe at the MGM Grand Las Vegas. While the kids munch on their meals, they'll also enjoy the sights and sounds of the simulated rainforest around them. Mid-meal boredom will be a thing of the past.
When your family has a healthy appetite, Las Vegas offers a number of buffets with cuisine from around the world. Many hotels offer free buffet admission for children under 4 years of age, as well as discounts for children under 12.
Don't forget to make reservations ahead of time if you're afraid of long waits with hungry children. If cost is an issue, always check prices before you head out for a meal since Las Vegas hotels and buffets are constantly updating their menu options based on availability and time of year.
Award-Winning Shows
The world-renowned acrobats from Cirque du Soleil's "O" at the Bellagio Hotel are a visual delight that children and adults are sure to enjoy. The show features 85 performers and 150 stage hands, including a 25-foot water pool where tricks with fire, water and air are explored.
If your child is lured by the power of magic, Lance Burton at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino offers a variety of tricks that will amaze even the most seasoned viewers. Burton's performance is especially kid-friendly and doesn't include nudity like some of the other magic shows in Las Vegas, so it's a perfect family experience.
Both shows are versatile enough for children and parents to enjoy, and are appropriate for audience members 5 years of age and older.
Fun in the Sun
Need some time away from your hotel walls? There are a number of activities that can be enjoyed in Nevada's great outdoors.
The adventure-seeking family might consider the Mario Andretti Racing Experience at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The track is 1.5 miles long and gives children a taste of what it's like to be a professional race car driver, plus they get hands-on experience from their very own crew chief and driving lesson.
If your family desires something a little more relaxing, the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel offers a 15-acre tropical pool area complete with water slides and a relaxing grotto where you can escape the heat.
Expert Insight
There are many professional consultants that specialize in family travel. Consider reviewing the blogs and articles on sites such as: TakingtheKids.com, CiaoBambino.com and FamilyTravelForum.com before you embark on your Las Vegas adventure.
It can also be extremely helpful to sit down with your family to brainstorm your Las Vegas activity wish list before you make your final reservations.
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