Toddler Things To Do In Las Vegas: Your Ultimate Family Guide

Looking for toddler things to do in Las Vegas? Yes, Las Vegas can be family-friendly! While often associated with adult entertainment, Vegas has many attractions perfect for little ones. This guide will help you navigate Las Vegas with small children and discover the best toddler activities Las Vegas has to offer. Get ready for some Las Vegas family entertainment!

Toddler Things To Do In Las Vegas
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Is Las Vegas Really Suitable For Toddlers?

Contrary to popular belief, Las Vegas can be a surprisingly delightful destination for families with toddlers. Beyond the casinos and nightlife, the city boasts a variety of attractions catering specifically to young children. This guide unveils the hidden gems of kid-friendly Las Vegas attractions, ensuring a memorable vacation for your entire family.

Planning Your Las Vegas Toddler Trip: Essential Tips

Before diving into specific activities, let’s cover some key planning considerations for a successful Las Vegas trip with toddlers:

  • Accommodation: Choose hotels with family-friendly amenities like pools, cribs, and rollaway beds. Suites offer extra space for toddlers to play and nap.
  • Transportation: Rent a car for easy access to attractions outside the Strip. Alternatively, utilize ride-sharing services with car seat options or the Las Vegas Monorail (consider a stroller-friendly route).
  • Timing: Plan your visit during the cooler months (October-April) to avoid the scorching desert heat.
  • Packing: Pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, snacks, drinks, and familiar toys.
  • Breaks: Schedule frequent breaks for naps and downtime to prevent toddler meltdowns.
  • Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on your toddler’s needs and interests.

Top Outdoor Las Vegas Toddler Activities

Despite the desert climate, Vegas offers several fantastic outdoor options for toddlers:

Exploring Las Vegas Playgrounds for Toddlers

Las Vegas playgrounds for toddlers are a great way for kids to burn energy. Here are a few top picks:

  • Springs Preserve: This 180-acre nature preserve features interactive exhibits, walking trails, a botanical garden, and a fantastic playground. The playground has areas suited for both younger and older kids, with soft surfaces and shade structures.

    • Address: 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107
    • Cost: Admission fees apply, but members get free access.
  • Sunset Park: A large park with multiple playgrounds, walking trails, a lake, and picnic areas. It’s perfect for a full day of outdoor fun.

    • Address: 2601 E Sunset Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89120
    • Cost: Free
  • Exploration Peak Park: Located in the Mountain’s Edge community, this park has a replica of the Las Vegas skyline, a playground, and walking trails.

    • Address: 9700 S Buffalo Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89178
    • Cost: Free

Water Fun: Pools and Splash Pads

Las Vegas hotels are famous for their pools. Many resorts have shallow areas perfect for toddlers.

  • Hotel Pools: Most hotels on the Strip allow kids, but it is important to check beforehand as some may be adults only. Look for pools with gradual entries, splash pads, and lazy rivers. Examples include:

    • Mandalay Bay Beach: Features a wave pool and sandy beach area. (Note: Some areas might have age restrictions).
    • The Mirage Pool: Has several pools and waterfalls.
    • The Golden Nugget Pool: Known for its shark tank waterslide.
  • Splash Pads: Toddler-friendly Las Vegas includes several public splash pads. Check local parks and recreation websites for locations.

Animal Encounters

  • Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage: Observe dolphins, white tigers, and lions in this enchanting habitat. The dolphin shows are particularly captivating for toddlers.

    • Address: 3400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Admission fees apply.
  • Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay: While maybe intimidating for the very youngest, older toddlers will be mesmerized by the sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life.

    • Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119
    • Cost: Admission fees apply.
  • Lion Habitat Ranch: Get up close and personal with lions at this sanctuary.

    • Address: 382 Bruner Ave, Henderson, NV 89044
    • Cost: Admission fees apply.

Scenic Views and Gentle Adventures

  • High Roller Observation Wheel: Take a ride on the High Roller for panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. Strollers are allowed in the cabins.

    • Address: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary.
  • Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden: Wander through stunning floral displays that change seasonally. The vibrant colors and intricate designs are sure to fascinate toddlers.

    • Address: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Free
  • The LINQ Promenade: A pedestrian-friendly outdoor shopping and dining area with street performers and family-friendly attractions.

    • Address: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Free to enter; individual attractions have costs.

Exciting Indoor Activities for Toddlers in Las Vegas

Beat the heat or escape the crowds with these fantastic indoor activities for toddlers in Las Vegas:

Museums and Interactive Exhibits

  • Discovery Children’s Museum: This museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits designed for children of all ages, including toddlers. Exhibits focus on science, art, and culture.

    • Address: 360 Promenade Place, Las Vegas, NV 89106
    • Cost: Admission fees apply.
  • Nevada State Museum: Learn about Nevada’s history and natural environment. While some exhibits might be too advanced for toddlers, there are often interactive elements that will capture their attention.

    • Address: 309 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107
    • Cost: Admission fees apply.
  • Springs Preserve Origen Museum: Although part of the Springs Preserve (mentioned above), the Origen Museum warrants its own entry due to its amazing dinosaur exhibit and interactive displays focused on the history and ecology of the Las Vegas Valley.

    • Address: 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107
    • Cost: Admission fees apply, but members get free access.

Entertainment and Shows

  • Tournament of Kings at Excalibur: A medieval-themed dinner show with jousting, sword fights, and horse riding. While loud, many toddlers enjoy the spectacle. Be sure to ask for a high chair.

    • Address: 3850 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary.
  • Popovich Comedy Pet Theater at Planet Hollywood: A family-friendly show featuring trained pets performing amazing tricks.

    • Address: 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary.
  • Big Apple Arcade at New York-New York: A classic arcade with a variety of games suitable for all ages.

    • Address: 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Pay-per-game.

Indoor Play Areas

  • Kids Quest at various locations: These indoor play areas offer supervised childcare and activities for children of all ages, including toddlers. Check locations for age restrictions.

    • Locations: Various casinos including Sunset Station.
    • Cost: Hourly rates apply.
  • Libraries: The Las Vegas-Clark County Library District offers free story times, activities, and play areas for toddlers. Check their website for schedules and locations.

    • Locations: Various locations throughout Las Vegas and Clark County.
    • Cost: Free

Other Indoor Options

  • Aquarium at Silverton Hotel: A 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium with thousands of tropical fish, sharks, and stingrays.

    • Address: 3333 Blue Diamond Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89139
    • Cost: Free
  • M&M’s World: While technically a store, M&M’s World is a colorful and interactive experience that toddlers will love.

    • Address: 3785 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Free to enter; cost for purchases.
  • Coca-Cola Store: Similar to M&M’s World, the Coca-Cola Store offers a unique and engaging experience for children.

    • Address: 3785 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Cost: Free to enter; cost for purchases.

Free Toddler Activities Las Vegas: Budget-Friendly Fun

Free toddler activities Las Vegas are plentiful if you know where to look!

  • Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden: As mentioned earlier, this is a stunning and free attraction.
  • Fountains of Bellagio: Watch the mesmerizing water show set to music.
  • Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace: A free animatronic show that tells the story of Atlantis.
  • Aquarium at Silverton Hotel: A great option for a quick and free activity.
  • Las Vegas-Clark County Library District: Take advantage of free story times and play areas.
  • Parks and Playgrounds: Enjoy the many free parks and playgrounds throughout the city.
  • Walking the Strip (with caution): The sights and sounds of the Las Vegas Strip can be stimulating for toddlers, but be mindful of crowds and noise levels. Go during the daytime and stick to pedestrian-friendly areas.

Dining with Toddlers in Las Vegas

Finding restaurants that cater to toddlers is easy in Las Vegas. Many restaurants offer kids’ menus, high chairs, and booster seats.

  • Buffets: Buffets offer a wide variety of food options, making it easy to find something that your toddler will eat.
  • Casual Dining Restaurants: Many casual dining restaurants have kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Examples include:
    • Rainforest Cafe
    • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
    • In-N-Out Burger
  • Food Courts: Food courts offer a variety of quick and easy options for picky eaters.

Fathoming the Crowds and Noise

Las Vegas can be overwhelming for toddlers due to the crowds, noise, and flashing lights. Here are some tips for managing sensory overload:

  • Visit during off-peak hours: Avoid the busiest times of day, such as weekends and holidays.
  • Take frequent breaks: Find quiet places to rest and recharge.
  • Bring noise-canceling headphones: These can help reduce the impact of loud noises.
  • Plan ahead: Know what to expect at each attraction and be prepared to leave if your toddler becomes overwhelmed.

Sample Itineraries: Making the Most of Your Time

Here are two sample itineraries for a Las Vegas trip with toddlers:

Itinerary 1: Short and Sweet (3 Days/2 Nights)

  • Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas, check into your hotel, and spend the afternoon at the hotel pool. In the evening, visit the Fountains of Bellagio.
  • Day 2: Visit the Discovery Children’s Museum in the morning. In the afternoon, explore Springs Preserve.
  • Day 3: Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay before departing from Las Vegas.

Itinerary 2: Extended Fun (5 Days/4 Nights)

  • Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas, check into your hotel, and spend the afternoon at Sunset Park.
  • Day 2: Visit the Discovery Children’s Museum. In the afternoon, explore the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to the Lion Habitat Ranch. In the evening, attend the Tournament of Kings show at Excalibur.
  • Day 4: Spend the morning at the hotel pool. In the afternoon, visit M&M’s World and Coca-Cola Store.
  • Day 5: Visit the Springs Preserve before departing from Las Vegas.

Hotels Suited to Families with Toddlers in Las Vegas

Choosing the right hotel can make or break your family vacation. Here are some recommended hotels that are especially suited to families with toddlers:

Hotel Name Family-Friendly Amenities Notes
Mandalay Bay Beach & Wave Pool, Shark Reef Aquarium, Spacious rooms & suites Be sure to check age restrictions for some pool areas.
The Mirage Dolphin Habitat, Secret Garden, large pool area Check show schedules & consider noise levels for sensitive toddlers.
Excalibur Tournament of Kings dinner show, multiple pools, arcade A more budget-friendly option; themed decor can be exciting for kids.
Circus Circus Adventuredome Indoor Theme Park, Circus acts, affordable rates Can be very crowded; Adventuredome rides may have height restrictions.
Four Seasons Las Vegas Excellent service, cribs & rollaway beds available, quieter atmosphere (no casino), access to Mandalay Bay pools A more luxurious option; great for families who want a relaxing stay.
Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa Large pool area, Kids Quest, bowling alley, movie theater Off-Strip, but offers more space and family-oriented activities.

Resources for Planning Your Trip

  • Visit Las Vegas: The official Las Vegas tourism website offers information on attractions, events, and accommodations.
  • Las Vegas-Clark County Library District: Check their website for story times and activities.
  • Local Parks and Recreation Websites: Find information on parks, playgrounds, and splash pads.
  • Travel Blogs and Forums: Read reviews and tips from other families who have visited Las Vegas with toddlers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is the best time of year to visit Las Vegas with toddlers?

    • The best time to visit is during the cooler months (October-April) to avoid the extreme heat.
  • Can I bring a stroller to Las Vegas?

    • Yes, but be prepared for crowds. A lightweight stroller is recommended.
  • Who should I contact for accessible travel needs?

    • Contact your hotel or desired attraction directly to inquire about accessibility options.
  • What is there to do in Las Vegas with a 1-year-old?

    • Many toddler activities in Las Vegas suit a 1-year-old, including visiting the Bellagio Conservatory, playing at playgrounds, and enjoying hotel pools.
  • Can I take my toddler to a casino?

    • While children are allowed to walk through casinos, they are not allowed to linger or gamble. Keep moving and be mindful of the environment.
  • Are there any free activities for toddlers in Las Vegas?

    • Yes! The Bellagio Conservatory, Fountains of Bellagio, parks, and libraries offer free entertainment.

Las Vegas can be a fantastic destination for families with toddlers. By planning ahead and choosing the right activities, you can create a memorable and enjoyable vacation for everyone.

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