Staying on Budget with Your Family in Las Vegas

With a four-mile strip lined with 24-hour casinos, bars and endless nightlife activities, Las Vegas is not known as a budget destination. Located in Nevada’s Mojave Desert, Las Vegas has become a resort town famously boasting a constant buzz of activity and vibrant attractions.

Bring the kids and check out this list of family-friendly fun and activities for the little ones, or hit the town with adult children while keeping these few budget-friendly ways to save in mind.

Grab a light breakfast and coffee at the hotel before heading out on the town for a slew of Las Vegas-centric activities for free. Begin the day at the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. There will be fewer crowds in the morning providing better photo opportunities for guests. The indoor floral exhibit is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free to explore.

Photo: Jerryway | Dreamstime

While in the area, stroll by the Bellagio fountains for music and a show. The fountains shoot water to the beats of The Rat Pack and Elvis. Later, head to the Mirage for a lucky sighting of the casino’s volcano. Two to three times a day the Mirage’s lagoon comes to life with special effects, fire and volcanic eruptions.

Have happy hour snacks and drinks at the Carson Kitchen in Downtown Las Vegas. Famously located on Carson and 6th, Carson Kitchen boasts a trendy atmosphere with an affordable menu stocked with a blend of high-brow-meets-casual dining.

Visit the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat, located in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip. This nature exhibit is free and fun for all ages and is home to swans, ducks, rescued pelicans, turtles, koi fish and, of course, flamingos. Walk along the paths and take pictures of the waterfalls and lush greenery. Show the family a different side to Vegas, one even they may not have expected!

Photo: Rixie | Dreamstime

Taking a photo with the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is a must. Take one during the day for fewer tourists or wait for the lights to really pop at night. The Venetian Grand Canal is another must-see while in Las Vegas. Also known as the streetmosphere, the Grand Canal provides a recreation of iconic Venice, Italy, landmarks including St. Mark’s Square, gondolas and street performers.

After a day of nearly free sightseeing under your belt and still within budget, head out to the casinos and bars for the full Las Vegas experience. Have a friendly competition over who can lose the least amount of money and take in the sights and sounds of the roaring nightlife and swanky atmosphere.