Is Las Vegas a destination on your family vacation list? Probably not! The nickname “Sin City” is probably enough to put off most families from spending their precious and often very limited family time there. But, did you know that when it comes to attracting families and family-friendly appeal, Las Vegas is experiencing some kind of a rebrand?
It’s true! Las Vegas is proving to be more popular with families than ever before, with more family-centric entertainment, child-friendly amenities and hotels, and dining experiences. Apparently, Las Vegas isn’t just a grown-ups’ playground anymore! Of course, Las Vegas still majorly caters to adults, so there are definitely some considerations to have in mind if you’re thinking about bringing your family here. Want to know more? Check out what you need to know before bringing the kids to Las Vegas.
Kid-Friendly Hotels – Do Your Research
Being able to provide a comfortable stay for the whole family is the focus of many Las Vegas hotels and resorts. Naturally, adult-focused entertainment continues to be important in the Entertainment Capital of the World, but staying in a hotel that caters specifically to children, offering amenities and activities designed to keep the little ones entertained, means everyone can enjoy their visit. Make sure you conduct some research first and remember that comparing hotel prices is the best way to find the lowest price. Here are our top suggestions.
The Venetian Resort: Bursting with beautiful suites and plenty of space for families. You’ll find separate living areas, multiple beds, and lots of amenities that will make staying here incredibly easy and relaxing. There are four pools here, perfect for kids and adults alike. While there are adult shows, families can enjoy more relaxed entertainment like the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum or exploring the Grand Canal Shoppes, which often host free events and performances. There are also plenty of dining options with lots of onsite restaurants and eateries for even the fussiest of guests!
Circus Circus Hotel and Casino: Considered to be the most family-orientated hotel on the Strip, Circus Circus is certainly geared towards children and big kids alike! Here, you’ll find an indoor amusement park, which will certainly keep everyone entertained. There are also indoor and outdoor pools and kid-friendly shows, and it’s considered to offer more affordable rates than other resorts on the Strip.
Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino: Home to one of the largest pools in Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay is a good choice for families who prioritize rest and relaxation. Complete with a real sand beach and a tropical oasis; kids will love the wave pool and the lazy river. There’s also a Shark Reef Aquarium that’s a fun and educational experience for everyone! You’ll also find kids’ clubs here, available for children of all ages, which means mom and dad can have some fun while the kids are safe and enjoying their stay.
Prioritise Health and Safety
With all the amazing attractions and amenities in Las Vegas, it’s incredibly easy to forget that you’re in the middle of a desert. This means that families with children need to take extra precautions to ensure everyone is safe in the heat. Not only that, but Las Vegas is incredibly crowded, particularly on the Strip, which means lots of jostling crowds and potentially stressful moments. Here are some essential health and safety tips for those visiting with children.
Keep Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is key to keeping everyone safe in the hot weather. Make sure everyone has a refillable water bottle – most hotels, casinos, and resorts will have refill stations that are free for members of the public to use, even if they’re not guests. Make sure you’re encouraging your children to sip their water frequently and watch for signs of dehydration.
Protect Your Skin: The intense desert sun can be harsh, even more so on children’s delicate skin. Prolonged exposure can be sunburn or sunstroke, which is considered a medical emergency. Make sure everyone is wearing loose, comfortable clothing and any exposed skin is covered in a high-factor sun cream, which is reapplied throughout the day.
Family Safety
Las Vegas is full of people, distractions, and heavy foot traffic – the perfect combination for children to become lost or for you to become separated.
Here’s what you should know:
Create a Meeting Spot: Depending on your child’s age, it might be a good idea to come up with a plan for them to follow should you become separated. Choose a meeting place for everyone to head to if needed. Make it somewhere easy to spot from a distance, like the Bellagio Fountains or a particular landmark.
Consider Airtags or Wristbands: Consider using identification wristbands or tags for younger children, which can include your contact information in case they get lost. Some parents are placing AirTags on their children’s clothing or bags so they can be easily traced!
Use a Stoller or Reigns: If you have young children with you, then a stroller is a must. Just make sure you invest in a sunshade for your child to protect them from the sun. Alternatively, for those youngsters with a lot of energy, try a harness or a safety reign so they can explore without wandering off.
Take Plenty of Breaks: The Strip is crowded and hot, which means becoming overtired and overheated is very easy for young children. Make sure you’re taking lots of breaks in the shade or heading indoors to make the most of the air conditioning. Rest is key to enjoying your family trip to Las Vegas.
Keep a Basic First Aid Kit: Having essentials such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, paracetamol for children, and any prescription medication you might need on hand can certainly help if things take a turn. Make sure you bring a selection of these items with you if you decide to leave your resort.
Final Thoughts…
With so much to see and do in Las Vegas, it’s hardly surprising that more families are choosing the Entertainment Capital of the World for their next vacation. Would your children like to experience Las Vegas?
