Las Vegas and gambling will forever be linked. It’s still the best overall spot to play high stakes no matter the game, while The Strip is one of the most vibrant, inviting locations in the entire United States.
This is even a city notorious for a connection with the mob, while much of the nighttime entertainment is geared toward adults. Heck, you can even go get married in Vegas on a whim.
But visiting Las Vegas isn’t all about the grown-ups. It doesn’t have to be about partying, gambling and all kinds of bad decisions, either. While there’s a time and place for that kind of fun, you may be surprised to learn that Vegas is also home to a litany of family-friendly activities.
Here are the best spots for good old fashioned family fun for your next Vegas trip:
The Beatles LOVE Cirque du Soleil
Let’s get this list going in style, as the theatrics and music of Cirque du Soleil’s LOVE show is here to entertain anyone over the age of five. That’s a better cut-off than Criss Angel’s Mindfreak Live show (13+) and it’s not much more expensive ($75).
Other acts have higher age restrictions, but this is a solid value for one of the most elaborate and engrossing live shows you’ll come across anywhere.
Fueled by some of the most iconic music ever, allow Cirque du Soleil to leave a lasting mark on your Vegas memories with an array of vibrant colors, acrobatic displays and the legendary music of arguably the greatest band ever.
CSI: The Experience
The Criss Angel show and LOVE are both worth checking out, but they’re a bit pricey and you won’t always be able to include everyone in the entire family. That could lead you to checking out a fan favorite, as CSI: The Experience admits everyone of all ages.
Ever wondered what it’d be like to solve a real life crime? Wonder no more, as this engaging murder mystery includes video appearances by your favorite CSI cast members and real-life forensic gurus as you try to piece the puzzle together.
This is one engrossing activity everyone can get down for and will have access to, while entry starting out at just $27 makes it a pretty palatable experience for the checkbook.
Fly LINQ Zipline Las Vegas
There are several indoor and outdoor ziplines to target while in Vegas and they all have something different to offer. One of the best options is Fly LINQ Zipline, which is just $30 per head and permits entry to anyone of any age.
The first and only zipline on the Las Vegas Strip places you 12 stories atop all of the action, giving way to an amazing view and quite the thrill. Go big and zipline like a superhero, or keep it cool in the seated position.
The choice is yours. Either way, you’re in for a memorable jaunt over The Strip and all of the family can partake.
Madame Tussauds
Ever wanted to get up close and personal with some of your favorite celebrities? You and the kids can do exactly that with Madame Tussauds, which puts you into contact with star athletes, actors, musicians and more.
Well, kind of.
Madame Tussauds is known the world over for astonishing, life-like wax statues. They’re not the real thing, but they certainly look like it.
Measure yourself up to tall basketball players, take selfies with Drake, Sandra Bullock and so many more. You can even hit up the virtual room to take your experience one step further.
It’s a thrilling experience for everyone in the family and admission starts at just $19 ($10 off if you buy online).
High Roller Observation Wheel
Looking for a fun, family-friendly Las Vegas activity that won’t cost an arm and a leg? Hop aboard the High Roller, which is just $8 for admission.
Largely regarded as one of the top attractions in Las Vegas, the Observation Wheel climbs 550 feet high and offers a 360 degree view of Las Vegas.
Pods are air conditioned and roomy enough to fit 40 passengers, allowing you to move about the cabin and take pictures or capture all kinds of breathtaking views. It’s affordable and unforgettable, making it one of the must-see Vegas attractions.
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
If you’re looking for awe-inspiring entertainment on the cheap, consider taking the family to the Mandalay Bay Shark Reef Aquarium. This registers as one of the best family attractions on The Strip, as there is so much to see throughout 14 different exhibits.
Visitors can brace for over 2,000 animals under the sea, including sharks and even piranhas, with only glass separating you from the wonders of the ocean. Take your journey one step further with the engaging touch pool – all of this for just $14 per head.
Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N.
Not every kid is a fan of superheroes or even the popular Avengers, but it’s safe to say a good chunk are. If your little ones like the comic book world and would soak up every second of Avengers gear and displays, this is an absolute must.
Interactive exhibits of some of the most iconic Avengers await, allowing kids of all ages to see gear for Captain America and more. Even better, kids can go through special Avengers training to really give them an over the top experience.
Kids under four enter for free, while everyone else can get in for as cheap as $22, depending on where you buy tickets.
Blue Man Group at Luxor Las Vegas
There are so many shows to take in at Las Vegas, yet visitors seem to be routinely surprised that a good portion of them are available to everyone in the family.
One that has no real limits is the Blue Man Group, as all ages are welcome for their variety show that will make your jaw drop and tickle the funny bone.
Admission can be as cheap as $58, which feels like a considerable discount for a popular act in Vegas.
Eiffel Tower Experience
You can try to save a little cash by combining the Eiffel Tower Experience with the High Roller, but this is a cheap activity ($10!) for everyone in the family.
Located at the Paris Hotel, this is easily one of the best options to hit up while in Vegas and is for all ages. Go up in the glass elevator to the 50th floor, where you can look out over Vegas with a panoramic view in a bite-sized variation of the iconic Eiffel Tower.
It’s not quite the real thing, but it’s awfully close and your view is pretty unbeatable. Even better? So is the price.
The list for family-friendly Las Vegas attractions goes on and one and it really is going to depend on what interests you and what you have time for.
Love history? Perhaps consider forking over $35 to peruse Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Want to laugh? Sit down for just $16 at the Adam London Laughternoon. Get the best view of Vegas yet with a hot-air balloon ride ($125), enjoy Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden ($17), enjoy a day at Adventuredome Theme Park (starting at $19.95) or sit back and relax at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens (free).
Vegas is known for its raucous nightlife, but it’s much more than that. No matter your budget, interest or age restriction, there’s bound to be something (or many things) for you and your family to enjoy.