Vegas might have a wild reputation, but if you know where to look, it’s actually an epic destination for families, too. I’ve visited with younger cousins and even friends traveling with toddlers, and every time, I’m surprised by how many kid-friendly adventures are tucked between the casinos and neon lights.
You’ve got high-flying zip lines, next-level aquariums, indoor theme parks, and one of the best chocolate factories in the country (yes, really). Whether your crew is into roller coasters, animal encounters, or just epic pool days, there’s way more to Vegas than meets the eye. These 12 fun things to do in Vegas with kids are the real-deal highlights in 2025!
Coolest Family Attractions in Las Vegas (Top Highlights)
Planning a family trip to Vegas? It’s not all poker chips and party lights—this city is packed with surprising, over-the-top fun for kids and parents alike. Here’s a quick-hit list of the coolest family attractions in town. Tap any item to jump to that section in the guide.
- Best Aquarium Experience: Shark Reef Aquarium
- Top Indoor Theme Park: Adventuredome Theme Park
- Best Nature Escape in the City: Springs Preserve
- Most Iconic Free Show: Bellagio Fountains
- Coolest Superhero Encounter: Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
- Most Unexpected Thrill Ride: Vegas Indoor Skydiving
- Sweetest Experience: M&M’s World
- Most Unique Animal Encounter: Lion Habitat Ranch
- Best Urban Beach Vibe: Mandalay Bay Beach
- Top History Buff Stop: Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
- Most Dazzling Live Show: Cirque du Soleil
- Coolest Neon History Tour: The Neon Museum
Here’s my tip: mix one or two high-energy stops (like Adventuredome or Indoor Skydiving) with a relaxing visit to Springs Preserve or the Neon Museum. Also, don’t miss out on a day trip to Valley of Fire State Park – one of my favorite spots in the American Southwest. That way, everyone in the fam gets a little of what they love. Keep scrolling for more Vegas family tips, show advice, and hotel recs!
1. Spy on the Vibrant Aquatic Wonders of Shark Reef Aquarium
Las Vegas may be in the desert, but Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay brings the ocean to life in an unforgettable way. With over 2,000 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays, this aquarium is a must-see for families. The highlight is the massive walk-through tunnel, where sharks and fish swim above and around you. I remember pausing in the tunnel, mesmerized as a sand tiger shark glided overhead—it’s a thrilling sight! The Touch Pool adds an interactive element, letting kids get hands-on with rays and horseshoe crabs.
For more adventure, the Dive with Sharks program lets certified divers swim among these creatures. Beyond marine life, the aquarium features golden crocodiles and piranhas, making every turn an exciting discovery. Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a unique indoor activity, Shark Reef Aquarium is a fantastic family experience.
2. Go on Heart-Pumping Rides at Adventuredome Theme Park
For nonstop thrills, Adventuredome at Circus Circus is the place to be. This five-acre indoor amusement park is packed with roller coasters, bumper cars, and carnival games, making it a hit for kids and adults alike. The Canyon Blaster, the only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew coaster in the world, is a must-ride for thrill-seekers. I remember gripping the safety bar as the ride flipped me upside down—pure adrenaline! For younger kids, there are gentler rides like the Frog Hopper and a classic carousel.
Beyond the rides, Adventuredome offers mini-golf, laser tag, and a rock climbing wall, keeping the fun going for hours. The neon-lit atmosphere adds to the excitement, making it feel like a carnival under a giant pink dome. Whether you love fast coasters or laid-back attractions, Adventuredome delivers a day full of energy and excitement.
3. Discover Unique Flora at Springs Preserve
Escape the neon lights and step into nature at Springs Preserve, a 180-acre oasis showcasing the beauty of the Mojave Desert. This family-friendly spot features botanical gardens, scenic walking trails, and interactive exhibits that bring the region’s history to life. The Origen Museum offers hands-on science displays, while the Boomtown 1905 exhibit recreates historic Las Vegas. I enjoyed wandering through the cactus gardens, spotting vibrant desert blooms and learning how plants survive in this dry landscape.
For families, Springs Preserve is a perfect mix of education and outdoor fun. Kids love the live animal encounters, while parents appreciate the peaceful setting away from the Strip’s chaos. Walking the trails, you’ll spot wildlife like desert tortoises and roadrunners. Whether you’re looking to explore history, nature, or science, this hidden gem offers a refreshing change from Vegas’ usual glitz.
4. Watch a Water Show at Bellagio Fountains
You can’t visit Las Vegas without catching the spectacular Bellagio Fountains show. This iconic display features over 1,200 water jets choreographed to music, shooting up to 460 feet in the air. Each show is unique, set to songs ranging from classical pieces to modern pop hits. I’ll never forget standing on the sidewalk, watching the water sway perfectly in sync with “Viva Las Vegas.” It’s free, mesmerizing, and perfect for families exploring the Strip.
The best viewing spots are right in front of the Bellagio Hotel, where you can fully appreciate the power and precision of the fountains. Shows run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes at night, making it easy to fit into any itinerary. After watching the show, don’t miss the unique restaurants in Vegas along the Strip like Mon Ami Gabi, Spago, and the Eiffel Tower Restaurant. Whether you’re experiencing it for the first time or the tenth, the Bellagio Fountains always deliver a magical moment in the heart of Vegas.
5. Be a Superhero for a Day at Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
For Marvel fans, Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. at Treasure Island is an interactive dream come true. This high-tech exhibit transports visitors into the Marvel Universe, letting them explore artifacts, costumes, and technology from the films. Walk through Iron Man’s Hall of Armor, try to lift Thor’s hammer, and analyze the Hulk’s DNA in a hands-on science lab. The experience is packed with real props and digital effects, making you feel like part of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Kids and adults alike will love the mission-based experience, where you complete tasks and unlock exclusive content through a mobile app. The level of detail is impressive, and I had a blast testing my strength against Captain America’s shield simulator. Whether you’re a casual Marvel viewer or a die-hard fan, this attraction makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into an action-packed movie.
6. Experience the Thrill of Flight at Vegas Indoor Skydiving
If you’ve ever wanted to experience skydiving without jumping out of a plane, Vegas Indoor Skydiving is the place to do it. This attraction uses a powerful vertical wind tunnel to simulate freefall, letting you float weightlessly in midair. Before your flight, expert instructors guide you through a short training session, ensuring you feel confident when it’s time to step in. I remember the rush of wind lifting me off the ground—it felt like pure freedom!
This experience is great for families with kids over 40 pounds, making it an adrenaline-packed yet safe activity for all ages. Unlike traditional skydiving, there are no parachutes or planes involved—just the feeling of flying. Whether you’re looking to conquer a fear of heights or just have fun, Vegas Indoor Skydiving is one of the most thrilling family-friendly attractions in the city.
7. Personalize Your Own Candies at M&M’s World
For a colorful, candy-filled adventure, head to M&M’s World, a four-story wonderland dedicated to the famous chocolate treats. Located on the Las Vegas Strip, this store offers custom M&M printing, massive candy dispensers, and exclusive merchandise featuring the beloved M&M characters. One of the highlights is the personalized M&M station, where you can print your name, a special message, or even a picture on the candies—I got a batch with my initials, and they made a great souvenir!
Beyond candy, the store features interactive exhibits, life-sized M&M statues, and even a 3D movie experience starring the M&M characters. Kids love the vibrant atmosphere, and adults can’t resist grabbing a bag of their favorite flavors. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity or a sweet treat, M&M’s World is a must-visit for families exploring Las Vegas.
8. Watch a Giraffe Paint at Lion Habitat Ranch
Just outside of Vegas in Henderson, Lion Habitat Ranch is a hidden gem where families can see lions up close and even watch a giraffe paint! This sanctuary is home to lions, ostriches, and a famous giraffe named Ozzie, who creates abstract paintings with a brush in his mouth. I was amazed watching him pick colors and paint strokes—who knew giraffes had artistic skills?
Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the animals’ care and conservation efforts. You can even feed a lion (from a safe distance) or interact with Ozzie by giving him a treat. Unlike a typical zoo, this habitat offers an intimate and educational experience, making it one of the most unique family attractions in Las Vegas. If your kids love animals, they’ll have a blast at this one-of-a-kind sanctuary.
9. Ride the Waves at Mandalay Bay Beach
Who says you can’t enjoy the beach in the desert? Mandalay Bay Beach is an 11-acre aquatic playground with a massive wave pool, a lazy river, and sandy shores that make you feel like you’re on a tropical getaway. The wave pool creates waves up to six feet high, offering excitement for older kids and young adults, while younger ones can enjoy the shallow areas or float along the relaxing lazy river.
Lounge chairs and private cabanas are available for rent, making it easy to spend the whole day soaking up the sun. I loved the feeling of warm sand under my feet—it was easy to forget I was in the middle of Las Vegas! Whether you want to ride the waves or just unwind by the water, Mandalay Bay Beach offers a fun and refreshing escape for the whole family.
10. Explore the Mysteries of the Deep at Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition
Step back in time and experience the grandeur and tragedy of the RMS Titanic at this immersive exhibit inside the Luxor Hotel. Featuring over 250 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck, this exhibition brings history to life with detailed recreations of the ship’s interiors, including the Grand Staircase and first-class cabins. Holding a real piece of Titanic’s hull was a surreal moment that made history feel incredibly real.
Visitors receive a boarding pass with the name of an actual passenger, adding a personal touch to the experience. At the end of the tour, you’ll discover whether your passenger survived or perished. The exhibit is both fascinating and emotional, making it an unforgettable stop for history buffs and curious minds alike. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that’s both educational and captivating, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is a must-see in Nevada.
11. Watch World-Famous Acrobats at Cirque du Soleil
Las Vegas is home to some of the most spectacular performances in the world, and Cirque du Soleil is at the top of the list. With multiple shows across the city, each production features gravity-defying stunts, breathtaking choreography, and mind-blowing visual effects. I was on the edge of my seat watching performers dive into a massive water stage in “O” at Bellagio—it was pure magic and unlike anything I had ever seen before.
Other family-friendly favorites include “Michael Jackson ONE” at Mandalay Bay, which brings the King of Pop’s hits to life with energetic dance numbers, and “The Beatles LOVE” at The Mirage, a colorful tribute to the legendary band. Whether you love music, acrobatics, or dazzling stage performances, a Cirque du Soleil show is an unforgettable experience that will leave the whole family in absolute awe.
12. Gawk Over an Assemblage of Neon Signs at The Neon Museum
The glimmering lights of Las Vegas tell stories of the city’s past, and The Neon Museum preserves them in a spectacular outdoor exhibition known as the Neon Boneyard. This museum showcases more than 200 retired neon signs from old casinos, hotels, and businesses, offering a glimpse into Vegas’ vibrant history. Walking among these giant, vintage signs at sunset was a highlight of my trip—it felt like stepping into a time capsule.
Guided tours share fascinating stories about the city’s evolution and the artistry behind neon sign-making. In Vegas at night, the “Brilliant!” light show brings the old signs to life through projection mapping, creating a dazzling display of color and motion. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a unique experience, The Neon Museum is a must-visit attraction that showcases a different side of Las Vegas.
