Las Vegas Babies
“When I’m a grown, I want to live here all the time!”
Las Vegas certainly won over my toddler. It may not be the first destination that springs to mind when you think of family vacations, but it’s an exciting playground for young children. A lot of travel guides will advise families to head out of town to nearby desert locations, but there is a lot to do on the Strip if you’re juggling business and leisure or hopping around a convention while the little ones tag along to viva the rest of Las Vegas.
Some insider advice…
Opt for a Suite. First things first, make yourselves comfortable and consider upgrading to a suite. Casino hotels are enormous with options that work for all families and that can often be upgraded upon arrival for discounted or no additional cost (in fact, Atlas First partners with many hotels on the Strip to prioritize an upgrade). A larger suite means you can spread out, stash away the toys, strollers, and snacks, and enjoy some semblance of order amidst the Vegas whirlwind. Plus, having a separate sleeping area for the kids means you can enjoy a little late-night relaxation after they’ve drifted off to dreamland.
The Basics… Enjoy the Casinos. The floor of the casinos is a hit for young kids. While the casinos might seem like a no-go zone, many of them offer vibrant atmospheres that can be family-friendly during the day. Circus Circus, MGM Grand, the LINQ and Excalibur all have arcades to scratch the itch that the slot machines create for kids. Hit the amazing pools during the morning before the heat of the day and then cool off in the AC while you walk and gawk.
Explore the Whimsical. There are so many immersive experiences that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Meow Wolf's Omega Mart is like an artsy, maze of bizarre rooms with crazy lights and scenery to climb around on. The mysterious storyline is geared toward adults and teens, but young kids will enjoy the colorful playscape. It’s the perfect blend of art and adventure that keeps everyone engaged, plus it’s indoors! It will leave your kids ready for a hotel nap during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Seek Smaller Scale Entertainment. Wait till the heat of the day is done then go downtown to Fremont Street. Start at Container Park for food, drinks, outdoor art and playground. Toward the evening walk around for a lively mix of street performers, dazzling lights, and a vibrant atmosphere. Sit down for dinner with the family in a smaller atmosphere than the hotel restaurants. Grab a bite, and let your kids enjoy the free entertainment, from live music to circus acts.
Carve Out Adult Time. Hire a sitter to watch the kids while you enjoy a night of world class dining and entertainment. Many hotels partner with babysitting agencies that hire teachers and retirees with tons of experience. The service usually comes at a premium but can be well worth the hours out on the town and the accountability of the babysitter. During the daytime, coordinate with your partner so you can each tag out for spa R&R.
In summary…
Traveling to Las Vegas with young children can be a delightful experience filled with wonder, adventure, and a bit of that classic Vegas charm. With places like Meow Wolf, Fremont Street , and a little adult downtime sprinkled in, you’ll find plenty of reasons to bring you family along with you on business. There’s an enchanting chaos to Las Vegas that little ones love.
Have you taken a family trip to Vegas? I’d love to hear your favorite experiences and tips for making the most of this unique destination! Let’s chat! 🌟
