Las Vegas with Kids
Should you or shouldn’t you? Tough call.
On the one hand, they don’t call it sin city for nothing. On the other hand, it’s a short flight for lots of us and the entertainment is thick on the ground.
Our frequent contributor Debbie Abrams Kaplan, author of a blog called Frisco Kids about kid-friendly events in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, has this to say:
I can think of a lot of places I’d rather go with kids than Las Vegas. But given that Vegas is close, and their pools are open in the summer, there are plenty of things to do to keep you and the kids busy. Here are a few ides:
MGM Grand Lion Habitat – it’s a little odd to see lions in the middle of a hotel, but so be it. You can walk into this lion habitat, and see the lions on top of the glass tunnel you’re in, or maybe on the side. It’s open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, and it’s free.
New York, New York roller coaster – how awesome to ride a big roller coaster outside a Vegas hotel. With multiple barrel loops, drops and other fun features, this is something you’ll talk about for days…
Read the full article on Frisco Kids (photo courtesy of Debbie Abrams Kaplan).
July 8th, 2010 | by Jamie Pearson 9 comments
1. Honeymoon bed breakfast on July 9th, 2010
Las Vegas Grand Prix Family Center is our favorite place to visit during Las vegas trip. There are plenty of activities and I think it is a place that must to visit during LV trip. Moreover, Circus Circus is also valuable family place that offers huge activities for families with Adventuredome.
Best Regards,
2. Debbie Ferm on July 9th, 2010
I feel kind of the same way about Vegas. It certainly isn’t close to us, but it’s usually a cheap flight and there are always good deals to be had. When it’s cold here, I wouldn’t mind just hanging out at a resort swimming and enjoying the weather.
We spent two days in Vegas a couple of years ago with our kids. Of course, we visited Hoover Dam, which may sound like a big snore, but is actually fascinating!
We spent the evening walking around in the hundred degree on “The Strip”, and discovered when we got back to the hotel that our wily 8 year old son had pocketed about 17 biz cards for The Chicken Ranch.
I was glad we were heading to Phoenix the next day:)
3. Sharlene on July 9th, 2010
Here are my thoughts on the issue- It isn’t my favorite place to take kids but you can make it kids friendly and sometimes, you have no choice but to bring the kids along with you. Vegas is a good pit stop between Southern California and other places so we do take our kids on occasion.
4. RHope on July 12th, 2010
A good site that I found for info on kid fun in Las Vegas was LasVegas4Kids.net . They had some info if you’re going to visit, but it seemed more of a site for people who LIVE in Vegas and have kids. But either way, it was a cool site for finding information.
5. Kay @ Kids in Vegas on July 20th, 2010
Sadly the same old tourist traps are touted over and over. The Lions at the MGM Grand are among the most boring attraction there is… I feel very sorry for them as they are trapped in glass cages with nothing to do. Most of the time they just lie there sleeping… that’s what cats do of course. But it’s almost inhumane that these magnificent creatures are put in cages like this and put on display for profit. The Roller Coaster is a nice attraction as are the rides at the top of the Stratosphere. But nothing in the past 5 years has made Las Vegas a better destination for Families. Still lacking are quality water parks for locals. I can recommend the Mandalay Bay Complex for anyone interested in spending time at the pools. Those with the means to do so should choose the Four Seasons as it is non smoking, and gives you additional access to the much quieter Four Seasons pool as well. :)
6. Lorraine on July 27th, 2010
Interesting because Vegas has popped into my head a few times lately. I haven’t visited recently and was wondering what the kids would think of it. Just the fake-grandeur alone would raise little eyebrows. But Sharlene makes sense, maybe a stopover, and not a destination.
7. Brad on October 28th, 2010
Vegas is an absolutely wonderful place for kids. Vegas is no different than any other metropolitan area of a city. Keep them away from the scuz and you are fine. Kids love all of the shopping, dining, games, shows, etc. No idea why this topic causes so much strife in the lives of those poor parents who would rather shove their kids off into at a babysitter for a few days while they go get their freak on. Selfish.
8. Holly on October 28th, 2010
It depends on why YOU are going to Las Vegas… just like any other possible destination you might go.
If you are going to gamble, watch shows that don’t allow kids, drink until you puke, and other activities your kids shouldn’t do, then don’t.
If you plan to go shopping, sightseeing, visit water parks, and other family activities (all of which DO exist), then take them…
It’s hilarious that people actually make a big deal out of bringing kids to Vegas. Vegas is a truly wonderful place for families… just use common sense when there… just like any place you might go.
Read more: Should people take their children to Las Vegas for vacation? | Answerbag http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/137833#ixzz13hF0BdSo
9. Brisa on November 16th, 2010
We are taking our two daughters to Vegas in December. Hubby and I have been to Vegas plenty of times to gamble and enjoy the nightlife there, but we know there are plenty of things we can do with our girls as well. We are planning to visit the Adventure Dome, M&M World, see the Tournament of Kings show and try to catch a daytime comedy show along with the free attractions in different hotels like the water show at the Bellagio, Sirens at Treasure Island, Volcano show at the Mirage. There are plenty of things to do there with kids, just do your research and plan it out.
9 Responses to “Las Vegas with Kids”