Las Vegas might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a family friendly destination but the truth is there is an infinity of activities that will keep kids busy and assure they will have a lot of fun. Plans will vary depending on the age of your kids and the season you’ll go (if your kids love a nice pool avoid winter because it can get pretty chilly).

1. Circus Circus

Located on the Strip, Circus Circus is an excellent way to spend the day having fun for kids of all ages (and that includes us parents!)

The circus show at Midway is completely free and happens every half hour starting at 11:30am. Also at Midway you can find a huge arcade with more than 200 games, the selection is perfect mix of classic old fashioned and popular modern games.

Apart from that, the hotel casino also offers a ton of rides and attractions at the Adventuredome. Ranging from kid friendly to daredevil, here you’ll find roller coasters, bumper car rides, a pirate ship ride as well as a carousel and other toddler-friendly rides.

2. Swimming pools and beach!

Some don’t know but Vegas can get pretty cold during the winter. If you go any other time of the year, consider choosing your hotel by the available swimming pools. If your kids are like mine they will love spending hours in the water! Mandalay Bay offers (only for guests) an artificial beach with real sand, a lazy river and a wave pool, not many resorts can compete with this!

3. Shark Reef Aquarium

A really nice aquarium with more than 2000 animals, including countless sharks, rays, crocodiles, Komodo dragons, turtles and tons (TONS!) of fish.

Kids love this place, especially the under water tunnel and the touch pool where they can actually touch sharks and rays!

4. Cirque du Soleil

Are your kids 5 years or older? Then show them something they will never forget! Cirque du Soleil always has a handful of different shows to choose from and they are all known for their impeccable performances. Normally around 90 min. to 2 hours long, including an intermission, the spectacles are animal-free and can awaken a child’s curiosity to the theatrical world.

5. Hot air balloon rides

How about doing something you have never done before? Suitable for kids 6 years and older, this company offers 1 hour long flights that will take you drifting above the city and countryside and allow you to have the most spectacular views of the Strip, the whole city of Las Vegas and the distant Red Rock Mountains.

6. The High Roller Observation Wheel

The tallest Ferris wheel in the world (550-foot tall) will provide you and your kids a view as good as can get of Las Vegas from above. Much taller than any surrounding building, this giant takes 30 minutes to fully rotate, time enough to get your breath taken away.

Bonus: Are you thinking of a road trip to the Grand Canyon and beyond? Then, check this post out!