Viva Las Vegas, Family Style

While Las Vegas doesn’t necessarily have the reputation of a family-friendly destination, it actually can be — you just have to know where to go. At first glance, the Strip may seem lined with casinos and bars — which it is — but, if you look a little closer, you’ll find shops and fun attractions for tweens, teens and under 21s.

Big Apple Coaster and Arcade

Located in front of the New York New York Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, the Big Apple Coaster and Arcade is a great way to spend the day with the kids. Ride thrilling coaster rides with the family and get a fun view of the Strip from the top, or head to the arcade to win some family-friendly prizes.

If virtual reality is more your kid’s thing, bring the teens to the Big Apple Coaster Virtual Reality Experience. Situated high above the crowds on the Strip, kids 13 and older can experience the thrills of the ride without physically being strapped in.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

The kids can get a little (sugar) buzz at the two-story Hershey’s Chocolate World store. The retail experience is more than just a chocolate shop. Guests enjoy interactive experiences with candy and chocolates while stocking up on gifts for home or just loading up for themselves.

Hershey’s Chocolate World © Ritu Jethani | Dreamstime.com

Shark Reef Aquarium

Over in Mandalay Bay, the Shark Reef Aquarium is a one-stop shop for your mini marine biologists. Visit with more than 2,000 sea creatures, from sharks and sting rays to reptiles and endangered green sea turtles. Check out the new exhibit, “Polar Journey, An Interactive Adventure,” for an inside look at wildlife from the Polar regions or even interact with some animals through the Animal Encounters program.

CSI: The Experience

For your true crime fans, CSI: The Experience is a fun way to dip your toe in the fun of forensic science. The all-new experience, opening Jan. 28, will offer new challenges and experiences for your crime-fighting family.

Circus, Circus

The Las Vegas location of Circus, Circus may be a well-known destination for family fun, but the Neon Disco roller rink experience is an underrated attraction. Yes, the bumper cars and roller coasters of The Adventuredome of Circus, Circus are exciting, but the roller rink is actually a great way to entertain the kids at night and not worry about wondering around the Strip. The after-dark party during the weekends offers neon face painting, t-shirts and rides for your teens, tweens and even adventurous kids. 

Your teens and older children can easily enjoy all the fun and excitement of Las Vegas in an age-appropriate way without feeling like babies. Just let them pick their own adventure and go along for the ride. Literally.