City Guide to Las Vegas
Calling itself the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is known primarily for it's vices...gambling, alcohol, and other forms of adult entertainment. However, there are just as many, if not more, family-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are my favorite places to see and things to do in Sin City. Click on each attraction to be taken to my write-up!
PLACES TO EAT
Mon Ami Gabi - Located inside the Paris Hotel, Mon Ami Gabi is a rather expensive place to eat, but it is definitely worth the splurge for either a breakfast (the gluten-free Nutella waffles are an experience in themselves) or a wonderful steak dinner.TOP HOTEL ATTRACTIONS
The Paris Hotel - Enjoy all the charms of the French capital here on the Vegas strip, from strolling down cobblestone streets to enjoying a croissant fresh out of the oven with a cup of espresso. FREE unless you buy something from one of the shops or food.
The Bellagio Fountains - Probably one of the most famous landmarks of Las Vegas, the fountains at the Bellagio are worth seeing during the day and at night. We stopped several times during our visit. FREE
The Bellagio Conservatory - Inside the Bellagio, just beyond the entrance, is the hotel conservatory, a beautiful botanical garden that changes themes 4 times/year. A welcome change from the craziness of the city. FREE
Mandalay Bay Shark Reef and Aquarium - Located inside the Mandalay Bay Resort, the shark reef is one of the top family-friendly destinations in Las Vegas. The Shark Reef Tunnel allows visitors to walk underneath many different species of sharks, turtles, and stingrays. There is also a touch pool for anyone who wants to feel horseshoe crabs and smaller species of stingrays. Tickets are $20 for adults and $14 for children, unless you have a coupon
Caesar's Palace - Even if you don't stay at the resort, it is worth taking a half hour or so and walking around inside and out, looking at all the statues. There's also a large shopping mall with a great food court. FREE unless you shop or eat.
Sigfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat - Located in the Mirage, the dolphin habitat was one of our favorite places to visit. We really enjoyed watching the young dolphins play with beach balls. $22 for adults and $17 for kids unless you get a coupon.
Mirage Volcano - Erupting a few times each night, the volcano shoots fireballs hundreds of feet into the air, It brings both foot and automobile traffic to a stop. FREE
Venetian Hotel - Sure, it is overpriced and very touristy, but no trip to Las Vegas is complete without a gondola ride! $24/person unless you have a coupon.
TOP THINGS TO DO OFF THE STRIP
Take a horseback ride around Red Rock Canyon - It's definitely worth the extra time and money to take a break from the Strip and enjoy a morning, afternoon, or evening horseback ride through Red Rock Canyon. It's a treat for the whole family. Prices vary depending on what ranch and time of year.
Fremont Street Experience - Visit the place where it all began...Fremont Street. There you can see iconic casinos like the Gold Nugget, see some interesting street performers, and enjoy free concerts. Family-friendly during the day, it definitely becomes R-rated once the sun sets and the leather whips come out. FREE unless you shop or eat.
BEST TRAVEL GUIDES
Want to know more about Las Vegas? Here are my favorite travel guides written by the best in the travel industry (click on title to purchase from Amazon):
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