10+ Things to Do in Las Vegas for Families

Published: July 18, 2024
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When you think of family-friendly destinations, Las Vegas may not be at the top of your list. In fact, it may not even make your top ten, but you'd be surprised by all the attractions the so-called “Sin City” has to offer families with kids. Contrary to popular belief, you can (and should!) enjoy a vacation in Las Vegas with your family, there are lots of ways to experience the city that don't involve casinos and night clubs. The devilishly delicious buffets will be the only “sinful” thing you do! If you're looking to save on admission to top Las Vegas attractions and tours, pick up a Las Vegas Explorer Pass® for your choice from 10+ of the best area attractions for one low price. Save up to 55% on combined admission prices vs paying at the gate!

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

Madame Tussauds wax museums are enjoyable for visitors of all ages. In the Vegas location you’ll find lifelike wax creations in eight themed rooms (music, sports, Club Tussauds, Viva Las Vegas, Marvel Superheroes, and more) that are recognizable to kids, like Shaq and Britney Spears, as well as celebrities even grandparents will recognize (be on the lookout for Elvis). Take some photos of your kids with their favorite stars— they’ll love showing them off to all of their friends when you get back home. Visitors are encouraged to be creative with their poses and are allowed to get up close and even touch the figures.

Stratosphere Tower

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The Stratosphere Tower is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States and the tallest building west of the Mississippi. For kids, looking out from the 869-foot observation deck is plenty of amusement. For adults, the 360-degree panoramic views from the Stratosphere are truly incomparable. If anyone in your family is looking for more excitement, get them in line for one of the 3 thrill rides housed in the tower—The Big Shot, X Scream, and Insanity.

World Class Circus Acts at Circus Circus

Although Circus Circus is a hotel/casino by night, in the day it is home to the world’s largest permanent circus. The incredible acts you’ll see at this Cirque de Soleil-style family attraction include jugglers, unicyclists, trapeze artists, acrobats, contortionists, and more. Each act lasts about 10 minutes and they take place every half hour (on most days) starting at 11 a.m. Best of all, watching a show is absolutely free.

Springs Preserve

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This 180-acre cultural institution is only 3 miles from The Strip, but you’d never know it. The Preserve— designed and dedicated to honor Las Vegas’ lively history and pave the way for a sustainable future—features museums, galleries, outdoor concerts, bright botanical gardens, and a comprehensive trail system that runs through a scenic wetland habitat. Plus, the Preserve offers several programs tailored just for kids, like “Children’s Playground,” an interactive desert canyon-themed play area and “Nature Exchange,” which encourages kids with archaeological interests to collect shells, rocks, bark, pine cones, and more.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing

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If you’re vacationing with kids that are over five feet tall, take them to Fast Lap’s indoor tracks for a racing adventure that emulates the experience of professional racers. Each kart at Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing is equipped with Honda 200cc engines which reach speeds of up to 50 mph! The tracks were specially designed by two former IKF Racers, and Fast Lap prides itself on thoroughly maintaining them. Indoor karting may be the most fast, fun, and safe Vegas attraction for families.

The AdventuredomeTM

Everyone in the family is going to have a blast at America’s largest indoor theme park. Adventuredome is five acres of thrill rides and attractions enclosed under a glass dome. If you plan on riding more than one attraction, purchase the all-day ride pass for the best deal.

Bellagio Fountains

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Stop by the Bellagio Hotel and Casino to see the famous Bellagio Fountains. Kids of all ages love to watch these dancing fountains as they move to a choreographed routine set to different musical tracks. Check this show out at night, as it is more exciting to see when lit up. After you're done checking out the fountain show, step into the Bellagio and head to their art gallery, which is considered one of the best in the city. It's where your favorite art goes on vacation.

Discovery Children’s Museum

Discover something new at the Discovery Children’s Museum, where families can explore various hands-on exhibits. This museum is home to both permanent and visiting exhibits, all of which are unique and exciting for kids of all ages.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Get an up close look at Nevada’s wildlife, including animated dinosaurs at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, fondly known by the local kiddos as "the dinosaur museum". Families with smaller children will have a blast in the children’s learning room, featuring a hands-on experience with the area’s natural history.

M&M’s® World

Discover four stories of chocolatey goodness right on the Las Vegas Strip at M&M’s World. This fun store features everything we all know and love about these candy covered pieces of chocolate, including T-shirts, caps, lithographs, candy machines, and so much more. Don't forget to go up to the fourth floor and watch the action-adventure film starring the M&Ms and get your own container filled with personalized candies.

Pinball Hall of Fame

Parents will have a blast introducing their kids to the games they used to play back when they were young while visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame, "a place to play pinball the way pinball was meant to be played!" featuring over 200 games. Adults will have fun reliving their childhood, while the kids will have fun testing out games they probably never knew existed. Even if you aren't a pinball wizard, the Pinball Hall of Fame is a worthwhile stop for anyone visting Vegas.

Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Exhibit

Get up close with some of the world’s most exotic animals at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. This impressive habitat is located at The Mirage Hotel and Casino. Animals residing at this exhibit include white tigers, white lions, leopards and bottlenose dolphins. After exploring the secret garden take time to kick back and wait for the volcano at The Mirage to blow.

Toy Shack

If you find yourself enjoying the Fremont Street Experience while in Las Vegas, make time to wander through The Toy Shack. This store specializes in vintage toys from the 80’s and is the perfect opportunity to share with your kids the toys you used to play with at their age. You'll be hit with a wave of nostalgia and may just find yourself on eBay after visiting this unique shop.

Planet Hollywood

Grab a meal at Planet Hollywood for classic, American fare and a very family-friendly atmosphere. The kids will be entertained by the Hollywood-focused surroundings and movie memorabilia.

High Roller

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Take a spin on the world’s tallest observation wheel, for 30 minutes of unbeatable, 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Strip, Downtown, and beyond. The High Roller will take you to the top of sin city and once you've ridden the wheel you can check out everything that the strip offers.

So Remember...

You can save up to 55% on many of your attraction visits with a Las Vegas Explorer Pass, so pick one up today!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Friday in Vegas: Your Guide to Epic Fun and Adventure

Las Vegas isn’t just about endless neon and late-night slots—Fridays here practically sparkle with energy. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie eager to sample something new, or on the hunt for the best selfie spots, this city delivers. Fridays in Vegas are your golden ticket to a whole day of adventure: mornings on the Strip, afternoons spent exploring quirky museums or hopping aboard wild rides, evenings capped with extravagant shows, and nights you’ll never want to end. Get ready, we’re about to show you how to pack your Friday with Vegas magic.  Our favorite things to do in Vegas on a Friday include:  The Mob Museum  High Roller Observation Wheel  Fly LINQ Zipline  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour  Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil at New York-New York!  The Neon Museum  minus5° ICEBAR at The Venetian Canal Shoppes  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  The Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  Downtown Fremont Street Experience  The Mob Museum: Dive Into Vegas’s Notorious Past  Start your Friday with a bang (no pun intended) at The Mob Museum in Downtown Las Vegas. Housed in an incredible 1930s courthouse, this spot pulls you straight into the heart of the city’s criminal underworld and law enforcement legacy. Every exhibit mixes interactive displays, original mob artifacts, and immersive storytelling. Fancy testing your skill in a crime lab, exploring Prohibition-era speakeasies, or sitting in the very courtroom where mobsters once faced justice? This place brings it all together with flair.  We love how you can sip expertly crafted cocktails in the museum’s underground speakeasy after learning about the city’s most notorious bootleggers—where better to toast to Vegas history? The Mob Museum is equal parts informative and fun, a top pick for anyone who wants more than just a surface-level taste of Vegas lore. The energy is infectious, and it’s an unbeatable way to kick off your Friday adventures, just a stone’s throw from the mysteries and electric buzz of Fremont Street.  Fly LINQ Zipline: Race Your Friends Above the Strip  Got a daring streak? Embrace a Friday thrill and soar superhero-style down the Fly LINQ Zipline. You’ll zoom above the lively LINQ Promenade, whizzing past crowds and neon at up to 35MPH. The feeling? Pure exhilaration—whether you’re a first-timer or an adventure junkie.  We love how Fly LINQ makes every ride a shared event. Launch side-by-side with friends, cheer each other on, and try to keep your best game face for the cameras (the wind makes that tricky). Daytime rides offer clear views, but evening flights above the lit-up Strip are straight out of a Vegas blockbuster. After you land, reward your bravery with a treat at Sweet Sin Bakery or toast your epic ride with a custom cocktail at a nearby bar. There’s nothing like conquering the Strip from above to jumpstart your Friday festivities.  Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Daytime Tour: The Laid-Back Way to Hit the Highlights  If you love getting your bearings before diving in, the Big Bus Daytime Tour is your friend. This breezy double-decker bus tour loops through all the city’s essentials: glitzy casinos, funky street art, and those can’t-miss wedding chapels. With the freedom to hop off wherever something catches your eye, you can set your own pace—chill on top, observe the shows down below, or grab photos of legendary signs.  The bus guides keep things rolling with stories and tidbits you won’t see on a Google search. From the quirky history of Vegas to insider tips on the best spots for food or late-night fun, you’ll finish with a list of new places to check out. A classic Friday move for the first-time visitor or anyone looking to see Vegas from a whole new angle.  Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil: Mesmerizing Madness, New York Style  Turn your Friday evening up a notch at Mad Apple by Cirque du Soleil at New York-New York! This variety show offers up a whirlwind blend of acrobatics, stand-up comedy, music, and Vegas-style spectacle—all with a wild New York twist. The performers are unmatched, the tricks defy gravity, and the energy in the room is contagious.  What stands out to us? The sheer range: one minute you’re marveling at aerial duets, the next you’re laughing at razor-sharp comedy or caught up in a big band performance. The crowd is always buzzing, with the theater designed to keep you close to the action—sometimes the entertainers even perform right in the aisles! For a Friday night that goes beyond your average Vegas show, Mad Apple is the ticket. It’s the perfect way to jumpstart your weekend, leaving you feeling wowed and ready for more.  The Neon Museum: Vegas History That Shines Bright  Nothing says “Vegas” like those legendary neon signs, and there’s no better place to see them than The Neon Museum. Wander among retired signs from long-gone casinos and classic motels in the glowing “Boneyard,” where every bend tells a different story about Las Vegas’s wild past.  If you visit after sunset, the museum transforms into a glowing landscape of sculpted light, with guided tours that bring the history to life. You’ll hear the stories behind each flickering bulb and learn how Vegas earned its worldwide reputation as the city of neon dreams. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and surprisingly moving. On Fridays, the crowd feels especially laid-back, and the museum’s open-air space is a treat on warm desert evenings. For photographers, this is paradise—bring your camera and get ready for your most “Vegas” photos yet.  minus5° ICEBAR at The Venetian: Chill Out in Style  It’s not every day you sip cocktails surrounded by 90 tons of hand-carved ice, but at minus5° ICEBAR, that’s just your Friday happy hour! Parka up, grab a frosty glass (made of ice, of course), and step into a winter wonderland right in the middle of the Strip. Sculpted ice décor, frozen thrones, and cool lighting make every visit an adventure in itself.  This spot is a favorite for friends and couples looking for something truly out-of-the-ordinary. Choose from a menu of playful signature drinks, perfect for cooling off after a day under the desert sun. The club-style tunes and lively atmosphere turn every visit into a mini-party, and the icy setting makes for some wild, photogenic moments. Whether you stay for one drink or a few, minus5° sets a unique tone for your Vegas Friday—refreshing, unexpected, and Instagram-gold.  The Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter: The Ultimate Vegas Thrill  Craving an unforgettable Friday highlight? Buckle up for the Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter, where you'll glide high above the neon-lit spectacle of Las Vegas. This isn’t just a sightseeing tour—it’s a heart-pounding, bucket-list-worthy adventure. The experience kicks off with VIP treatment as you board your sleek chopper. As soon as you lift off, the entire Strip twinkles beneath you. The Bellagio fountains dance, the Eiffel Tower replica glows, and the city’s pulse is right at your window.  You’ll circle legendary casinos, iconic landmarks, and sports stadiums, all illuminated in dazzling color. The pilot’s smooth narration fills you in on hidden trivia, so you’re entertained as well as awestruck. The best part? You get views (and photos) you simply can’t replicate on the ground. There’s nothing like cruising the skies, champagne in hand, with Vegas unfolding in glittering panorama below. For couples, it’s pure romance; for thrill-seekers, a rush you’ll be talking about long after Friday ends. It’s hands-down one of the city’s most jaw-dropping experiences and a must for any adventurous Vegas itinerary.  Downtown Fremont Street Experience: Old-School Vegas with a Modern Twist  Wind down your Friday by diving into the electric buzz of downtown at the Fremont Street Experience. Under a canopy of four LED-lit blocks, you’re treated to hourly light shows, impromptu street performances, and the kind of people-watching that could inspire a dozen movies. Retro casinos line the street—pull a slot at the Golden Nugget, or just enjoy the nostalgic vibes and vintage signage. There’s always a live band or DJ pumping energy into the crowd, so it feels like a block party every night.  What makes this spot unforgettable is the fusion of old-school charm and new-age entertainment. Get adventurous with the SlotZilla zipline—soaring Superman-style above the crowds is a one-of-a-kind thrill. The area is packed with quirky bars, from speakeasy-style lounges to neon-drenched patios serving creative cocktails (the corndogs and loaded nachos at Heart Attack Grill are worth a try if you’re feeling brave).    So, ready for the perfect Friday in Las Vegas? Dive in, try something new, and let those legendary lights guide your way through a day—and night—packed with adventure.    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best bits outside the city, and how to beat the Vegas heat.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started
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Vegas in August: Your Ultimate Summer Fun Guide

August in Las Vegas is an adventure in every sense—think shimmering neon, poolside parties, dazzling shows, and endless flavors all set against those legendary desert sunsets. The summer heat only adds to the excitement, with plenty of ways to keep cool between explorations. Whether you want to float above the Strip, indulge in world-class cuisine, or discover Vegas history, we’ve rounded up the ultimate experiences guaranteed to make your August getaway as bright and bold as the city itself.  Our top things to do in Vegas in August include:  High Roller Observation Wheel  The Mob Museum  Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  minus5° “Cool Experience” at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  KA by Cirque du Soleil  Madame Tussauds  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  The Neon Museum  Pool Parties & Splashy Day Clubs  High Roller Observation Wheel  There’s no better way to see Vegas shimmer than with a ride on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel. Step into an air-conditioned pod (thank you, modern technology!) and get ready for a slow, smooth ascent above the Strip. Each rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in 360-degree views of neon lights, mountain backdrops, and maybe even spot the Bellagio fountains mid-show.  We love the High Roller for its breezy atmosphere—grab a drink if you wish, strike up new friendships with your fellow riders, and snap photos that’ll make your followers green with envy. Daytime brings sparkling desert vistas, but the skyline truly comes alive at night. In August, when the sun dips and temperatures cool, the city glows gold and pink—so romantic you might just feel inspired to propose! If you’re traveling with kids or a group, everyone’s thrilled by the panoramic ride, and the slow pace is perfect to catch your breath before the next adventure.  Strip Highlights Night Flight on Papillon Helicopter  If you think the Vegas Strip is dazzling from the ground, wait until you see it from the sky. Climb aboard a luxury helicopter for the Papillon Night Flight and watch as the city below transforms into a glittering mosaic. You’ll soar past famous landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, the Luxor Pyramid, the volcano at the Mirage—all brilliantly lit against the desert night.  There’s an undeniable thrill as you lift off. The experience is sleek and intimate, with professional pilots narrating fascinating tidbits about the skyline stretched beneath you. Whether it’s a special night out, a birthday surprise, or just the urge to do Vegas differently, this is a sure-fire way to dial up the “wow” factor and create memories long after August ends.  minus5° “Cool Experience” at the Venetian Canal Shoppes  No need to worry about August heat waves—step inside minus5°, where everything (and we mean EVERYTHING) is sculpted from ice. From the frosty bar to the intricate ice carvings, this whimsical lounge lets you chill out in Eskimo-style parkas while sipping creative cocktails. The mood is playful and upbeat, ideal for snapping selfies with arctic backgrounds or simply enjoying the novelty of drinking from a glass made of ice.  It isn’t just a bar—it’s an immersive experience that feels like a mini polar expedition in the heart of the desert. Groove to the DJ’s soundtrack, marvel at ever-changing ice features, and embrace a frosty retreat whenever the Nevada sun feels relentless.  Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. Walking Tour  If you’re craving vintage Vegas with a splash of modern flair, a guided stroll down Fremont Street ticks every box. Knowledgeable locals lead you past historic casinos, dazzling neon signs, and street performers who make people-watching here its own event. You’ll learn wacky anecdotes, discover tucked-away cocktail bars, and see art installations you’d never expect.  Fremont feels a world away from the Strip, delivering retro vibes and a side of Vegas that’s all color and character. The canopy light shows dazzle overhead, live music spills from every doorway, and street food smells tempt around every corner. It’s the only place in the world where you can zip-line past a million twinkling bulbs while listening to a ‘70s rock cover band.  Madame Tussauds  See yourself next to A-list celebrities, legendary musicians, and even Marvel superheroes—all under one glam Las Vegas roof. Madame Tussauds lets you strike a pose with ultra-lifelike figures: sit in the Oval Office, ride a party gondola with the Hangover crew, or challenge Shaq to a slam dunk. The attraction encourages selfies, goofiness, and unlimited celebrity encounters.  The ambiance here is energetic, with rooms flowing seamlessly from red-carpet spectacles to themed experiences straight out of pop culture. There’s no need to whisper; it’s all about fun, creativity, and a few “Wait, is that really wax?” moments. In the heat of August, this delightfully air-conditioned haven provides cool entertainment for the whole squad.  Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe at the LINQ Promenade  Caffeine crash or sugar craving? Sweet Sin Bakery & Cafe is your answer. Tucked into the lively LINQ Promenade, this little bakery buzzes with the scent of fresh espresso and pastries. Their signature treat: the “Nutella Bomb” croissant—ultra-flaky, chocolate-stuffed and dusted with powdered sugar. If you’re leaning savory, try their breakfast tartines or a ham & cheese croissant.  The mood is lively, thanks to bright decor and plenty of patio seating. It’s perfect for a mid-morning break or pre-game snack before hitting the High Roller right next door. Don’t leave without sampling the rainbow-hued macaron selection—Instagram fans, this one’s for you.  The Neon Museum  You haven’t truly experienced Vegas until you’ve wandered through the Neon Museum’s outdoor boneyard at sunset. Dozens of vintage signs resurrect the Strip’s old-school glory, telling stories of bygone hotels, restaurants, and performers. Don’t rush! Each sign comes with unforgettable tales—some glamorous, some quirky—that reveal a side of Vegas history you never knew you needed.  Evening visits add an extra layer of magic as the museum lights up select signs to their original glow. It’s both nostalgic and wildly photogenic. If you’re a fan of history, design, or just neon in general, the museum is a treasure—and the guided tours are packed with witty insights.  Pool Parties & Splashy Day Clubs  August is pool party season, and Las Vegas delivers with next-level options. From DJ-fueled day clubs at the Strip’s luxury resorts to chill, family-friendly resort pools, you’ll find a scene to suit every mood. Picture beach balls bobbing, creative cocktails flowing, resident DJs spinning, and cabanas that make you feel like a celeb for the day.  Check out the pool at the Cosmopolitan for a lively party vibe and unbeatable views down the Strip—it’s famous for its rooftop feel and DJs who spin from noon until sunset. Over at Encore Beach Club, the energy is high, and you’ll likely find chart-topping artists at the decks. Don’t feel like going all out? Mandalay Bay’s sandy “beach” and lazy river offer a more relaxed scene, yet still bring plenty of excitement with wave pools and tropical drinks delivered right to your lounger.  Ready to plan your August Las Vegas adventure?  Vegas in August is sizzling, but it’s also the perfect time to explore the best the city has to offer—indoors, outdoors, and high above it all. Beat the heat with a frozen cocktail at minus5°, step into Vegas history at the Mob Museum, stroll through glowing neon history, or catch a nighttime helicopter view you’ll be talking about for years. From lazy pool days to thrill-seeking rides, unforgettable eats and world-class live shows, August brings it all together. So, pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and let Vegas surprise you at every turn!    Enjoyed this? Check out our picks of the best casino hotels to call home on your Vegas adventure, and   Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 

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