Family Things to Do in Las Vegas

Family Things to Do in Las Vegas
Photo Credit Figure Skates image by Alaskajade from Fotolia.com

People know Las Vegas as an adult playground with nonstop gambling, extravagant shows and a wild nightlife. Parents, however, can also safely bring their kids to the southern Nevada city. Las Vegas has wholesome options for families and kids in addition to the bright lights. They include healthy activities that offer exercise and opportunities to learn.

Aquariums and Zoos

You can see lions, sharks, flamingos and other out of the ordinary creatures in Las Vegas. The city has half a dozen venues with animals and sea life. Parents will like the exhibits that have free admission. They include the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino's lion habitat. Another option is the Flamingo Resort Wildlife Habitat. It has actual Chilean flamingos, as well as ducks, swans, turtles and koi fish on display near waterfalls.

Bowling

Adults try to strike gold in casinos. Kids and their parents can try to get strikes in one of Las Vegas' eight bowling alleys adjacent to a casino. The alleys typically allow areas for birthday parties with other amenities. The South Point Bowling Center, for example, has an arcade and offers bowling lessons next to the South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa.

Ice Skating

An ice skating rink wouldn't last long outside in the desert. Las Vegas, however, has a thriving ice skating and ice hockey community. The Las Vegas Ice Center, located a few blocks off the city's main strip, has public skating sessions the family can enjoy together. Additionally, you can watch local adult teams play ice hockey in the center's leagues.

Museums

You can actually learn something in Las Vegas. The Lied Discovery Children's Museum has 22,000-square-feet of hands-on and interactive exhibits. Kids learn about the arts, humanities, music, nature and science. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum has displays on the world's cultures, ecosystems and wildlife, such as a prehistoric life gallery and treasures of Egypt.

Rides

Families can get light exercise by strolling through the city's half a dozen theme parks and ride venues. The Adventuredome Theme Park, at the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino, has thrills for different ages. They can range from a roller coaster that travels at 55 miles per hour to clown shows for children. Vegas Indoor Skydiving gives families the chance to fly through the air in a controlled environment. There is no age limit to skydive, but there's a 40 lb. weight minimum.

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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