By J.C. Lewis
Las Vegas accommodates its guests with plenty of activities, attractions and entertainment for all ages. Although the main activities in Las Vegas are gambling in the many hotel-casino mega complexes and enjoying the notorious nightlife, there are a surprising number of family-friendly activities available in Sin City.
Gamble
Whether you are a high roller and want to enjoy some special treatment in a private poker room, want to bet a little money on your favorite sports team, have a flutter at the roulette wheel or just keep the stakes low at the nickel slots, Las Vegas revolves around providing opportunities to gamble. Even if you don't want to risk a penny you should visit the major casinos in Las Vegas just to experience the atmosphere and the elaborately themed and decorated gambling halls.
Eat
Las Vegas is the home of the all-you-can-eat buffet. From a cheap and plentiful breakfasts, lunches and dinners to an elaborate and expensive gourmet feast, the vast array of buffet choices means you will not leave Las Vegas hungry. Most of the big hotels offer buffets featuring all types of cuisine.
Shows
Las Vegas hosts many different shows from small improv comedy nights to large scale spectacular shows from the biggest names in entertainment. Comedy, music, magic and more are on show every night. Some of the most popular shows in Vegas are the various performances offered by the acrobatic experts of the resident Cirque de Soleil.
Shark Reef Aquarium
For a break from the hustle and bustle of the Strip, visit the Shark Reef Aquarium in Mandalay Bay. The aquarium features 14 exhibits of more than 2,000 marine creatures, including tropical fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles and jellyfish. It is the only aquarium in North America devoted to aquatic predators and makes a fascinating and tranquil diversion from other Las Vegas activities.
Shark Reef Aquarium
3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 632-4555
Stratosphere Tower
The Stratosphere Tower is famous as the tallest building west of the Mississippi at 1,149 feet. The indoor and outdoor observation decks provide unmatched views of the city and surrounding desert below, and thrill-seekers can ride on the fast-spinning seats of "Insanity, the Ride" while suspended from the top of the tower on a mechanical arm.
Stratosphere Tower
Stratosphere Las Vegas
2000 Las Vegas Blvd South
Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 380-7777
Adventuredome at Circus Circus
The Adventuredome at Circus Circus is a great place to wear out the kids. It comprises five acres of thrill rides, big roller coasters, more gentle rides for smaller children, arcade and carnival games and clown shows. During the summer the air-conditioned arena is a cool, family-friendly refuge in the midst of Sin City.
Adventuredome
2880 Las Vegas Blvd South
Las Vegas, NV
(702) 734-0410
Fountains at Bellagio
The fountains outside the ornate Bellagio put on a spectacular show at regular intervals throughout the day and evening. They shoot into the air to light displays and music in elaborately choreographed routines to entertain tourists for free. Get there between shows, find a good spot and stay there for the best views.
Belllagio
3600 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 693-7111
Resources
About the Author:
J.C. Lewis is the editor and co-owner of a weekly newspaper, as well as a staffer and regular contributor to a group of three newspapers in Los Angeles, Calif. Her writing has appeared on USAToday.com, Hotels.com and various other websites. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in politics from the University of Bristol, England.
