30+ Cheap & Free Activities With Kids in Las Vegas

We are all about taking what wouldn’t typically be considered a “family vacation” destination and turning it into a full-on family vacation (for example- taking kids to Oktoberfest!). I’m a strong believer that a place doesn’t have to be “for kids” for it to be “kid-friendly,” and that is definitely true for Las Vegas! There is plenty to do, and even free activities with kids in Las Vegas, and the rest of the family too! Don’t let the “Sin City” name fool you! 

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Las Vegas may be known for its casinos and nightlife, but it’s also a surprisingly family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. With the right planning, a trip to Las Vegas with kids can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. In this guide, I’ll cover everything from how long to stay, things to do, transportation tips, and even day trips, along with free activities with kids in Las Vegas during your visit.

How Long to Stay

For a family trip to Las Vegas, a 4-5 day visit is ideal. This allows enough time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed, while also giving kids downtime to relax by the pool or enjoy slower-paced activities. If you plan to take any day trips outside of the city, adding an extra day or two might be worth considering. I’ve taken multiple trips to Vegas and 4 days of activity always has seemed like the perfect amount. 

An ideal 4 day itinerary would be:

• Arrival Day: check into your hotel, plan for a nice dinner in one of the hotels 
• 2nd Day: Explore the Vegas strip, experience unique hotel entertainment, have lunch, and spend the early evening on Fremont Street 
• 3rd Day: Take a day trip! The perfect way to break up some of the activities. 
• 4th Day: Spend the morning exploring the Vegas strip, enjoy pool time in the afternoon, and see a show in the evening. 
• 5th Day: Check off a few additional hotel experiences before heading home! 

Transportation Tips

Navigating Las Vegas with kids can be easy with a bit of preparation. Here are a few transportation tips to keep in mind:

• Walking: The Las Vegas Strip is quite walkable, but distances between attractions can be longer than they appear. Be prepared with comfortable shoes, strollers for younger children, and water to stay hydrated in the desert heat. Don’t forget to take advantage of the paths between hotels to avoid some of the heat! 
• Monorail: The Las Vegas Monorail is a convenient way to get up and down the Strip without the hassle of traffic. It’s a family-friendly option with stops at major hotels and attractions. It’s also a fun break from walking while having an interesting activity. 
• Ride-sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and useful for getting to places off the Strip or in a pinch when walking isn’t an option. This can be a very expensive option though, even for a short distance, so be sure to look into pricing first. 
• Renting a car: If you plan on taking day trips or exploring beyond the Strip, renting a car is a good idea. Parking is often free or low-cost at hotels and casinos.
• Group tours: are another great option to take a few day-trips. There are many tour options available from Vegas to other areas.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: One of our favorite ways to get around a city. We love being able to hit all the major tourist spots with transportation provided.  

Things to Do with Kids in Las Vegas

There’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Las Vegas! As mentioned above, we like to take experiences not necessarily designed with kids in mind and turn them into a family event. Here are some top family-friendly attractions:

• The Shark Reef Aquarium (at Mandalay Bay): A fascinating underwater adventure with over 2,000 animals, including sharks, tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. You can also pay an additional fee to feed the sharks! 
• The High Roller Observation Wheel (at The LINQ Promenade): This giant observation wheel gives a 360-degree view of the city from 550 feet in the air. Kids will love spotting landmarks from above.
• Discovery Children’s Museum: Located off the Strip, this interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits focused on science, art, and culture, making it an ideal stop for young learners.
• Hello Kitty Cafe: Located at The Park near T-Mobile Arena, this is a must-visit for fans of the adorable Japanese character. The cafe is both whimsical and fun, offering a range of Hello Kitty-themed treats like cookies, cakes, donuts, and milk teas, all served in colorful packaging. The bright pink decor and photo-worthy moments make it a hit for families, especially younger kids. 
• Bellagio Fountains: The choreographed water and light show outside the Bellagio Hotel is a must-see for families. Kids are often mesmerized by the spectacle, and the best part? It’s a free activity! 
• Adventuredome (at Circus Circus): A massive indoor theme park with rides, games, and attractions suited for all ages. From roller coasters to mini-golf, this is a kid favorite.
• M&M’s World: A colorful and sweet experience where kids can customize their own M&M candies and explore four floors of chocolatey fun.
• Fremont Street Experience: This pedestrian-friendly area offers free nightly light shows and live entertainment, with a more laid-back vibe compared to the Strip.
• Red Rock Canyon: For families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers scenic hikes, picnic spots, and opportunities to spot wildlife just a short drive away.

• Stratosphere: At 1,149 feet, the Stratosphere Tower is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S. Visit the SkyPod Observation Deck to enjoy 360-degree views. If you want thrill rides, the Stratosphere also features some of the most exhilarating rides in Las Vegas, including Insanity, a massive arm that dangles you over the edge of the tower, and Big Shot, a high-speed vertical ride that shoots riders up to the top of the spire. For a real adrenaline rush, there’s SkyJump, a controlled free-fall from 829 feet—perfect for thrill-seeking teens. 
• Springs Preserve: A beautiful 180-acre property with a wide variety of things to do. From the botanical gardens to the interactive exhibits, and the trails and train rides, it’s fun for kids of all ages. 
• See a Live Show! There are seemingly endless options when it comes to live shows in Vegas- however, a few of them are not meant for children, so be sure to be specific about which one you attend. I recommend looking for a concert experience or a show like the Blue Man Group, or even a dinner theatre show like the Tournament of Kings. Each option is for sure going to be a unique experience. 
• Hershey’s Chocolate World: Create your own chocolate bar and revel in all of the candy sculptures! 
• Play Miniature Golf: There are a few options for golfing in Vegas, but the most exciting might be PopStroke! 
• Fun Dungeon at the Excaliber: Bring the carnival games indoors with this fun space full of arcade games, pin ball machines, and ice cream. 
• Ride the Big Apple Coaster: Take a ride on this fun outdoor coaster at the New York-New York hotel. 
• Titanic Exhibit: An amazing exhibit that has locations around the world. We have done one of these tours and it was well worth the time and money! 
• Experience the Venice Gondola Rides: A relaxing gondola ride through the indoor and outdoor canals of The Venetian hotel. The gondola ride offers an authentic Venice experience, complete with singing gondoliers dressed in traditional attire. The indoor canal area features painted ceilings designed to look like the sky, making you feel like you’re outdoors even when you’re inside. It’s a great way to slow down the pace, and kids will be thrilled by the idea of floating through a “city.” It’s also a fantastic opportunity for family photos. Don’t forget to shop a bit in the Grand Canal Shoppes! 

• Go Ziplining: There are two main ziplining experiences in Las Vegas that offer a fun and unique way to see the city from above. At Fremont Street, families can soar down SlotZilla, a zipline that sends riders flying over the crowds and neon lights below, and at The LINQ Promenade for Fly LINQ. 
• Take an ATV Tour: There are several tour companies that offer guided ATV rides through the nearby desert areas, including the Mojave Desert, Nellis Dunes, or even trips to the Valley of Fire. These tours are led by professionals and include all the necessary safety gear, making them safe and enjoyable for beginners, including older kids and teens. Exploring the desert terrain on ATVs allows families to see the natural beauty of Nevada up close while enjoying the thrill of off-roading. Some tours even include a stop at historical landmarks like old mining towns.
• Smash Same Stuff: A more unconventional activity, the Wreck Room in Las Vegas offers families with older kids and teens a chance to release some energy by smashing and breaking things in a controlled environment.
• Explore Paris: Take a trip to Paris without leaving Las Vegas by visiting Paris Las Vegas, which features a replica of the Eiffel Tower that stands 46 stories high. Families can head to the Eiffel Tower Observation Deck (one of the most iconic attractions in Vegas!) to enjoy panoramic views of the Strip and beyond. It’s especially magical at night when the city is lit up, and the Eiffel Tower itself is beautifully illuminated. Down below, explore the cobblestone streets of the Paris-themed casino, where you’ll find quaint Parisian-style cafes, shops, and street performers, adding to the experience.

​Depending on which experiences you want to do in Vegas, it may be worth it to look into a Las Vegas Explorer Pass which will give you discounted admission to many of the above attractions. We love using passes like this when we want to see and do a lot but save money where we can. Totally worth it on family trips in my opinion!

Free Things to Do in Las Vegas with Kids

Las Vegas offers plenty of free show and activities options that are perfect for families. Here are some of the best free things, and are great options for families, that won’t cost a dime:

• Bellagio Fountains: As mentioned above, the iconic water and light show at the fountains of Bellagio is a must-see. The dramatic choreography combines water jets, music, and lighting effects to create an incredible experience for viewers. The shows run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and every 15 minutes in the evening, with music ranging from classical pieces to contemporary hits. Make sure to catch it both during the day and at night for a completely different atmosphere.
• The Mirage Volcano: Located outside The Mirage Hotel, this free volcano show is one of the most captivating spectacles on the Strip. The volcano erupts in a fiery display of smoke, water, and flames set to music by Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart. The explosive show takes place every hour from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (Thursday through Monday), and kids will be mesmerized by the realistic effects. It’s especially dramatic when viewed against the backdrop of the night sky.
• The Fall of Atlantis Show (at Caesars Palace): This free 15-minute animatronic show located in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is an exciting display of mythical storytelling, featuring animatronic figures that come to life with fire and water effects. The story centers around sibling gods fighting over the lost city of Atlantis. The spectacle runs every hour from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and don’t miss the massive aquarium nearby, which holds more than 50,000 gallons of water and is home to tropical fish from all over the world.
• The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat (at Flamingo Hotel): Tucked away behind the Flamingo Hotel is a peaceful wildlife habitat that offers a quiet escape from the bustling Strip. Kids will love seeing the resident flamingos, koi fish, exotic birds, and turtles in this lush, tropical environment. The habitat is open daily, and it’s a great place to take a break, stroll through the winding paths, and enjoy the calming nature sounds.

• Bellagio Conservatory: Just inside the Bellagio Hotel, the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers an indoor oasis filled with seasonal flowers, plants, and displays that change throughout the year. Each installation is crafted with exquisite detail, making it a favorite for family photos. Seasonal displays during holidays like Christmas or Lunar New Year are especially spectacular.
• Ethel M Chocolates Factory & Cactus Garden: A short drive from the Strip, the Ethel M Chocolate Factory offers a behind-the-scenes look at how their famous chocolates are made. After your self-guided tour, explore the adjacent Cactus Garden, which is one of the largest in Nevada. The garden is especially enchanting during the holiday season when it’s adorned with festive lights. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for some free chocolate samples!
• Seven Magic Mountains: Located just 30 minutes from Las Vegas, this vibrant art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone consists of seven towers of stacked, brightly colored boulders set against the desert landscape. The installation has become an iconic spot for photos and offers a great opportunity for kids to explore something truly unique. Be sure to bring water and sun protection, as the desert heat can be intense.
• Watch the Mermaid Show: Head over to the Silverton Casino Hotel, where you can watch real-life mermaids swimming among tropical fish in the casino’s 117,000-gallon aquarium. Kids will be fascinated by the underwater performances, and there are daily shows where the mermaids interact with the audience. The aquarium is home to over 4,000 tropical fish and is free to visit, making it a great off-the-Strip family activity.
• Fremont Street Experience: Fremont Street is home to a spectacular free light and sound show that plays every night under the 1,500-foot-long Viva Vision screen. The shows run on the hour, starting at 6:00 p.m., and are paired with free live concerts and street performances. For families with younger kids, it’s best to visit earlier in the evening before the crowd gets more rowdy. Fremont Street is a more laid-back and nostalgic part of Las Vegas that’s fun for all ages.
• Circus Acts (at Circus Circus): Step inside the world’s largest permanent circus at Circus Circus Hotel, where you can watch free circus performances every day. The Carnival Midway features talented trapeze artists, jugglers, and acrobats putting on a thrilling show every 30 minutes, starting at 11:30 a.m. The acts take place above the main floor, so you can enjoy them while exploring the arcade and games below—kids will love the carnival atmosphere!

• Take a Photo with the Welcome to Vegas Sign: One of the most iconic photo spots in Las Vegas is the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign located just south of the Strip. Be sure to arrive early in the day, as lines can get long as the day goes on. It’s free to take photos, and this classic shot is a must-have for any family visiting Las Vegas.
• Downtown Container Park: This unique shopping and entertainment district is made entirely out of repurposed shipping containers. The park features a playground with a giant treehouse that’s perfect for kids to climb and explore, as well as family-friendly dining and boutique shopping options. While many of the attractions are free, there are also paid experiences like live music and special events.
• See the World’s Largest Chocolate Fountain: Located inside the Bellagio Patisserie, this Guinness World Record-holding chocolate fountain is a sight to behold. With over 2,100 pounds of flowing chocolate, it’s a fun (and free) stop to make before heading out front to watch the Bellagio Fountain show.
• Take an Aria Express Tram Ride: Connecting the Bellagio, Aria, and Park MGM, the Aria Express Tram is a free and convenient way to get around the mid-Strip area. The tram offers great views as you glide between some of Las Vegas’ most iconic resorts, and it’s an easy, fun ride for kids.
• Pinball Hall of Fame: A little off the Strip, this quirky museum houses hundreds of working pinball machines and arcade games from decades past. Admission is free, and you can play the games for just 25-50 cents each. It’s a nostalgic experience for parents and a fun, interactive stop for kids.
• Hit the Pool: Many Las Vegas hotels feature stunning pools, some with lazy rivers, wave pools, and waterfalls. While not all are free to non-hotel guests, some hotels offer pool passes, and it’s worth spending an afternoon relaxing and cooling off with the family. Just be sure to look into which hotels have wild pool parties and which ones are more geared towards families. The splash pad at Circus Cirus is great and doesn’t allow alcohol. 
• Coca-Cola Store: Located on the Strip, the Coca-Cola Store offers free entry to explore its two levels of Coca-Cola memorabilia. Kids will love seeing the giant Coke bottle outside the store, and you can even try a variety of international soda flavors with the “Tastes of the World” experience (which is paid but affordable).
• See the Rainstorm at Miracle Mile: Inside the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, you can catch an indoor rainstorm complete with thunder, lightning, and fog. Shows run every hour starting at 10:00 a.m., and it’s a great little escape from the heat or hustle of the Strip. It’s a unique and free experience the whole family will enjoy.

Day Trips from Las Vegas

If you have extra time during your Las Vegas vacation, day trips to nearby natural wonders and historical sites provide a great escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Some of the local trips even offer free activities with kids in Las Vegas surroundings!

Here are four fantastic day trips you can take with your family:

• Hoover Dam: Just a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam stands as a testament to American engineering and ingenuity. This massive concrete dam was built during the Great Depression and today provides water and electricity to millions of people across the Southwest. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits, and guided tours provide insight into the dam’s construction, history, and significance. For families, the “Powerplant Tour” is an excellent choice, as it takes you deep inside the dam to see the enormous generators up close. There’s also an opportunity to walk across the top of the dam, where you can stand in both Nevada and Arizona at the same time. The nearby Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge offers incredible views of the dam and Colorado River below. Make sure to bring hats and sunscreen as it can get quite hot, especially in the summer.
• Valley of Fire State Park: Just about an hour northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is a family-friendly destination known for its stunning red rock formations and scenic desert landscapes. It’s Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, offering plenty of opportunities for short hikes that kids can enjoy, such as the Fire Wave and Rainbow Vista trails, which feature unique rock formations that look almost otherworldly. The park is also famous for its ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) created by Native American tribes over 2,000 years ago, which can be viewed along trails like the Mouse’s Tank. The vivid red sandstone formations, combined with the wide-open spaces, make this park perfect for a day of exploring, photography, and picnicking. In addition to hiking, kids will love spotting wildlife such as lizards, bighorn sheep, and desert tortoises. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as it gets extremely hot in the summer.

• Grand Canyon West: About a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, Grand Canyon West offers a chance to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon without the long trek to the South Rim. This section of the canyon is located on the Hualapai Reservation and is home to the famous Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet out from the canyon’s rim, providing breathtaking views 4,000 feet above the canyon floor. While there is an additional cost to walk the Skywalk, the views alone are worth the trip. There are also other scenic viewpoints such as Eagle Point and Guano Point, which offer panoramic vistas and family-friendly photo ops. Grand Canyon West also provides educational insight into the local Hualapai culture through exhibits and performances. While it’s not part of the Grand Canyon National Park, it’s a much more accessible option for a day trip and offers a thrilling experience for kids who want to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
• Death Valley National Park: About a 2-hour drive west of Las Vegas, Death Valley is one of the most unique and extreme landscapes in the world. As the hottest and driest place in North America, it’s best visited in the cooler months (October through April) to avoid the sweltering heat. Despite its name, Death Valley is full of life and fascinating geological features. Highlights include Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, where you can walk out on the salt flats; Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where kids will love running up and down the sandy hills; and Artist’s Palette, a colorful rock formation that looks like a painting come to life. The park’s visitor center provides exhibits on the area’s unique environment, wildlife, and the history of the indigenous peoples who once lived there. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen for the day. The wide-open spaces and surreal landscapes make it a great adventure for families who love exploring the outdoors.

These day trips offer a variety of activities, from learning about history and culture to marveling at natural wonders. Each destination provides a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes and attractions surrounding Las Vegas while creating lasting memories with your family.

Final Tips for Visiting Las Vegas with Kids

• Strongly Consider Mid-Day Pool Time: Many hotels in Las Vegas have family-friendly pools, with splash pads or a wave pool, and taking breaks during the day to cool off can help balance the city’s fast pace.
• Seasonal Timing: If possible, visit Las Vegas during the cooler months (October through April) to avoid the intense summer heat.
• Stay at a Family-Friendly Hotel: While many hotels cater to adults, some, like Circus Circus, Mandalay Bay, and Excalibur, offer kid-friendly amenities, including pools, arcades, and family-style restaurants.
• Prepare For The Dryneess: Being from a very humid state and spending time in the Nevada Desert in Vegas has always been difficult for my eyes and sinuses. Keep this in mind and bring the proper medications or eye drops! 

Las Vegas may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a family trip, but it’s packed with activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained. A 3-4 day visit gives you time to explore the best family-friendly attractions, and with day trips to iconic landmarks like Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon, the adventure can be extended even further. With a little planning and some smart transportation choices, your Las Vegas family vacation will be one to remember!

Let me know if you decide to try any of these cheap or free activities with kids in Las Vegas! Please remember to look into each experience prior to arriving as things are constantly changing in the area and some things could move or close depending on the time of year.