I know, when you think of Las Vegas you undoubtedly think about the casinos and gambling, as well as the extravagant and overpriced shows. I personally never wanted to visit, as I’m not a gambler, and I have little money. Why bother when I hate cities anyways? Then I made some friends who lived there, and all that changed. They helped me discover the true beauty that Las Vegas has to offer… and it’s definitely not the gambling. From awesome things to do inside the city to exploring nearby areas, particularly when you are on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas (did you realize how fast it is to get out of Vegas?! Yeah, it’s a tiny city apparently!) Just like the previously published family travel to San Diego, there is so much that Las Vegas has to offer when visiting with your family, that you just never hear about. So skip the casinos, play UK slot games on your phone instead and check out these awesome family friendly attractions instead.
Table of Contents
The Stratosphere Rides and Jump – An adventure filled option on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas
This is one of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas, and is totally great for the entire family. That is, if you’re not afraid of heights! The Stratosphere Tower is the tallest tower in las Vegas, and can be seen from far and wide. You can simply head up to the observation deck for great city views, or have your try at the Stratosphere rides – one being the very tallest thrill ride on earth! There are three in total, the most fun being Big Shot, which throws you up the needle of the tower then tosses you back down.
Then there’s my very favorite part: the Stratosphere jump. That’s right, you can jump off this epic tower, plunging down for a seventeen second free-fall. It may not sound like long, but it’s worth every moment. You’re attached to wires, so it’s sort of a controlled free-fall – somewhere in between bungee jumping and skydiving. While it’s great for all ages, you definitely need to not be afraid of heights! If you feel like being more adventurous, you have a lot of other activities to choose from. Some of these include a thrill ride, views from the tallest observation tower, radius pool on the 25th floor. Then there’s an elation pool, a fitness center and a full fledged spa – if you would like to indulge.
Overall, this is something that definitely deserves a place on your list of must do in Vegas for first timers. But, if you enjoy it, you can do it on subsequent trips as well.
SlotZilla Zipline – Another adventure filled option on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas
Fremont Street is the main street in downtown Las Vegas, not to be confused with the insanity of the strip. The street is quite packed, but doesn’t focus on gambling (though of course you can still gamble here, as with anywhere in Las Vegas). There are tons of different kinds of buskers hanging out, as well as live music, dancing, and my very favourite part: the zipline. SlotZilla Zipline takes you high above Fremont Street, viewing all the people bustling around below.
There are two options at SlotZilla: you can do the lower down zipline, in which you are in seated position as with most ziplines in the world, and you don’t go quite as far. Or, you can do the big one – way more fun. You’re higher up, and you’re in full on Superman position. Yeah, it’s pretty epic. There’s even a giant TV screen you soar through as you look at the many people below and all the happenings going on. The line is 77 feet high and 850 feet long!!! Running from the east end of the street to the west, it is operational from 1:00pm to 1:00am on all days of the week. It’s a whooping 12 floors slot machine, so there is no chance one can miss it’s presence.
The experience begins on the second floor. You are first strapped to a harness and your personal belongings strapped to you. Thereafter, you will reach the zipline platform through an elevator. Again, any age can do this… so long as you aren’t afraid of heights!
The Valley of Fire – A great option when on family friendly visit to Las Vegas
A short drive out of Las Vegas you’ll find the Valley of Fire. If you enjoy the wonderful creations of nature, you’ll love this. Unlike anywhere else I’ve been, the Valley of Fire is basically rocks and canyons that are unbelievably red in color. It’s definitely a cool experience, and a great trip away from the business that is Las Vegas. So, if you are on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas, you might want to add the valley of Fires in your list of things to do. This is a natural creation spanning around a huge area of 46000 acres located 16 miles south of Nevada. The park actually derives it’s name from the red sandstone formation that is one of a kind in the entire world. The reason to add it on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas is that when you are on such a trip, you look for options that everyone can enjoy. And this wonder of nature is one such option.
There is an elevation to the valley of fire as well, which ranges between 1,320–3,009 feet. Some of the sandstone formations in the park are believed to be 150 million years old!! The park has a visitor center where you can reach out for all the information you might need while visiting here. Plus they have various facilities for the visitors that include camping and hiking. When you are on a family friendly trip to Las Vegas and you visit here, you might as well include picnic in your list of things to do when in the valley of fire. And imagine, what a perfect and unique picnic spot it will make!!
Cars
Another thing to add to your list of things to do when on a family friendly visit to Las Vegas. Ever wanted to see the real Batmobile? How about the car that Bonnie and Clyde died in? Yep, you can see them all just a short ride out of Las Vegas. And they have everything. Take your photos and feel cool in front of the DeLorean from Back to the Future, you know you want to! And you doesn’t love to experience a car ride when with their family. Thus, cars seem to be the perfect option for you to try out with your family.
The Shows – If You Can Afford Them!
Of course, there are always the shows, which I unfortunately didn’t have a chance to check out on account of them being rather pricey. You can sometimes however find deals on Groupon or get a good price for a matinee show, so if you’re flexible, price might not be so much of an issue. They have anything and everything, from magic shows to Cirque de Soleil. There are famous concerts and then there are shows by the rising artists and amateurs. S0o, you really have a lot of options to choose from. And what is best is that for many of these you can look for booking online. Some of the shows have tickets available across sites, and you can do a comparison before booking. Here’s a list of some regular Las Vegas Shows alongside their review and rating, which can help you decide which one to choose when you are on a family friendly trip to Las Vegas. I’m a bit upset at myself for not checking one out, but mark my word, I will next time I’m in Las Vegas!
Conclusion
In all, Las Vegas is way more than casinos and the strip, though the strip is definitely worth driving down at night to see all the spectacular colors and such. You’ll see a ton of places you’ve seen in movies and photos, and it’s definitely cool. Still, there are way better things to do in Vegas than merely gamble your money away on the strip. Finally comes the question – is Las Vegas Expensive? Yes, it is but there are ways to do everything on a budget as well when you are in Las Vegas. You just need to pick the right activities, accommodations and transoprt. Also, there are some awesome day tours available around Las Vegas. Like the ones to explore Grand Canyon & Antelope Canyon. Zyon National Park trip is another favourite. In fact, you can even take this helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. So, weigh your options and do a little intelligent planning beforehand. Also, don’t forget to check the Vintage Las Vegas Fremont Street for some old casino charm! And I am sure you are going to have a fabulous time visiting Las Vegas with your family!
PS: This a guest post by Danielle Ditizan – Like Riding a Bicycle
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yeap, you have been able to change my opinion on Las Vegas. In fact when I think about LV i think about a city with caos… It seems more interesting from your point of view.
Thank you!!
This one is a rather refreshing article on Las Vegas. You are right in saying that most people, I included, think of the casinos and the bars whenever we hear Vegas. It’s nice to know that there are actually otger adventures you can explore here. 😉
Thanks Drew!
this changed my impression on las vegas with its casinos and clubs. i didnt know it could be family friendly too! love that they have exciting activities for those who seek extreme adventure!
Nice to know that! Thank you
My first time (as weird as this sounds) to Las Vegas was with my parents for Thanksgiving when I was 16. We stayed at New York New York and I loved their indoor roller coaster. We all had such a great time together! Oh, and any age can enjoy all the delicious food there too 😉
Good to know you had a nice family time there. And you made a valuable point. Food is something any age group can enjoy anywhere 🙂
These pictures are great. The bigger SlotZilla Zipline sounds like good fun! The Valley of Fire looks really cool for walks too
They indeed are David
Indeed there is so much more to Las Vegas beyond what gets projected. There are ample opportunities for families to enjoy beyond the casino tables.Of course the dazzling casinos and resorts are worth a visit but personally we loved getting out into the outdoors and exploring the natural and wild side of the region,
Exactly. Many of us are the city dwellers who are always on lookout for natural and wild regions for exploration rather than the cities. So, these locations around Las Vegas make for a perfect getaway for us.
I was never apart of the Vegas craze, either. Never really concerned if i ever went. But then I went on a whim and I absolutely loved it. It really surprised me, and there’s so much to do that anyone can find their niche. For example, I also jumped off the Stratosphere. Unreal! Also the nearby country, camping, and hiking is top-notch.
Yes, for us also the trip to nearby places and attractions from Las Vegas makes more sense
I’ve been to Las Vegas once and I had no idea about the Stratosphere Ride & Jump and the Zipline! I’m definitely a city person but I grew up in a small village – so I always love exploring new cities.
Then you must have had a blast in Las Vegas. For someone who loves being in cities, it’s a great city to explore.
I just saw someone saying that Las Vegas is not for families and was thinking that I know lots of things families can do there. This just supports it. Great post, thanks for sharing!
thanks Paula!
Even I had the image of Las Vegas as a place which is full of casinos and gambling.I myself never thought I would enjoy Las Vegas until I read this post.This post has completely changed my perception of Las Vegas.I only thought it is a place which would be enjoyable for people who love drinking,smokers and druggies.Yes it is a small city.I love that valley of fire you have put a picture of.This post is small but meaningful and can change your perception.I really want to try out the stratosphere rides you have mentioned about
Thank you Harini. Definitely the valley of fire looks like a must visit. And the adventure rides are worth a try
I also thought that Las Vegas is all about gambling until a friend went there and told that there are many other interesting things to see and do in Las Vegas. It is one of her favorite cities and after hearing her story, I have wanted to go there. I would love to do the zipline. I am afraid of heights, but for some reason, I can do ziplines. It is one of those thrilling adventures that I truly enjoy.
Totally agree. Just like you, I am afraid of heights. But I feel I could do the zipline and it would also help me overcome my fear.
The extreme rides at the Stratosphere looks wicked! Perfect for me and my brother who loves the thrill (more for my brother than me, lol) and I never knew there were so many things to do in Las Vegas, besides the shows and gambling. Definitely worth going someday.
Great to know. Definitely the thrill is worth the try.
Love those tattoos! Anyway, Las Vegas is more popular on the gambling side of things. It’s great to know that you can go here as a family and still have a great time. I guess my most favorite part are the ones outside of the city but really getting to know the landscapes 🙂
Same here Sam. The nearby locations from the city look so beautiful. Must be great to explore
I never thought of Las Vegas being family friendly…until now! The Valley of Fire seems absolutely incredible, and I think kids would absolutely love to see the surroundings and all the rocks and colours!
Totally Sam
I just knew there’s more to Las Vegas than gambling, that’s what I’ve always watched in films. Good to read there’re a lot of activities to do. I’ll love to do the Stratosphere Rides and Jump , though I’m scared of heights. The Valley of Fire activity sounds good if I’m going with the family. I’m glad you always make something for the traveling when traveling. Good to read about Las Vegas here.
Thank you Lydia!
Glad you like the post! The Stratosphere jump is oh-my-god amazing. It’s just so cool to see the strip lit up as you fall down, down, down, a fear of heights can’t stop you!
I’m so fascinated to learn about the Valley of Fire. Wow, 46000 acres just 16 miles south of Nevada. Just thinking about sandstone formations 150 million years old gives me goosebumps. Would love to explore.
It must be wonderful to explore. Even I am inspired (This is a guest post by Danielle)
I’m total opposite… city person… but same as you, I ‘m not excited about Las Vegas. Maybe I will change my mind once I visit, ’cause I really like the activities you’ve done.
Great to know that Unta
I seriously only went because it was a hub for the airline I was flying on.. and then fell in love with the things I did there.
I’m not much of a city person either, as I am a city dweller myself and seeing all those metropolises and high-rise buildings is nothing new to me. The Valley of Fire certainly looks interesting – the scenery seems gorgeous and I’m always into mountainous scenery, since we don’t have any of them here in Singapore. I would certainly like to pay a visit there one day! 🙂
I always struggled to understand how Las Vegas can be family friendly. But you do put forward some compelling arguments.
This might explain why I always see so many families there and I keep scratching my head on their motivation.
Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!