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Family-friendly Las Vegas FAQs: What to know before you go

It’s easy to take simple steps to plan a fabulous family-friendly vacation in this one-of-a-kind magical town. By Lisa Grabelle | May 11, 2021

You’ve just hit the planning guide jackpot for all things family-friendly in Las Vegas. Our tips will help you turn this adult playground into a kid-friendly destination, allowing you to focus on all the sensory delights, unique experiences and surrounding natural beauty that Las Vegas and Nevada have to offer.

Plan a winning, memorable Las Vegas trip with your kids by knowing:

  • When to go: Find out which seasons are the best for kids and crowds.

  • What to pack: We’re talking about layers, sunscreen, snacks.

  • How to get around: Will you walk or ride?

  • How to stay safe—and sane: We have a few tips.

Splash out

The best time to go to Vegas with kids is when the pool is open.

When is the best time to go to Las Vegas with kids?

All day and all year-round, Las Vegas buzzes with one-of-a-kind activities to entertain your family. The ideal times for a Las Vegas family vacation are between March-May and September-November, when the weather is most pleasant and the pools are typically open.


Hilton hint

"Our family reunion vacation to Las Vegas is one of my fondest childhood memories. The Strip felt like being in a giant fantasy land. Everything buzzed with excitement and there was something magical behind every corner.” -Sarah Orrison, Hilton Team Member, Content Marketing


Are you craving time outdoors, wanting to splash around in pools or looking to explore the region's natural wonders? If so, you should avoid the extreme summer heat. Although all major venues are typically air conditioned, temperatures often reach upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). In wintertime, the nightly lows sometimes dip below freezing.

If you’re hoping to either keep your wallet happy, minimize waiting in lines with your tiny tykes or both, then you should go to Vegas knowing that crowds are heaviest during weekends, school breaks, festivals and major conferences. Check the official tourism website for conference dates.

Explore on foot

Vegas is like a theme park: there are plenty of transportation options, but try walking around to get a feel of the place.

How do you get around Vegas with kids?

Your kids’ eyes will bug out as they soak in the other-worldly, electric sights and sounds along The Strip. Vegas has over-the-top themes, elaborate replicas of world-famous landmarks, like the Arc de Triomphe and the Sphinx, as well as other popular kid-friendly attractions, both free and for a fee.


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We promise that getting around Vegas is easy. You have options of rideshares, taxis, monorails, buses and rental cars. Your pick will be dictated by your family’s travel style, convenience and price point. If your gang is willing, then a good old-fashioned walk along the Strip immerses you in the energy of this theme-park-like city.

Need a pit stop? With free restrooms available, families can use casino bathrooms, as long as you don’t stop in the gaming areas.

Don’t jaywalk, though. Instead, cross streets safely using pedestrian bridges, which provide postcard-perfect vistas for family selfies. Look out for free, elevated trams that whisk you between various hotels on The Strip.

Prepare the essentials

Have small toys at the ready to help bide time if you’re in a long line. Toss in a portable charger—and a teddy bear, of course.

What should you pack for your Vegas family adventure?

What you pack for your family depends on the expected weather and your child-friendly itinerary, but don’t fret over what clothes to pack. Casual wear rules in Vegas. You only need dressier clothes if you plan to dine at trendier restaurants, but it’s the perfect excuse for sequins or sparkles. All year-round, you’ll need the necessities: sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a jacket for cool nights and frigid casinos.

You can enjoy Vegas without hunger meltdowns by carrying your kids’ favorite “must-have” snacks. You can top up your supplies at local convenience stores.

Everything can go in your on-the-go, compact backpack to manage snacks, drinks and anything else your crew may need while strolling the Strip or hiking canyons.

Daytrippers should also bring reusable water bottles to stay hydrated in the arid desert weather and wide-brimmed hats to guard from the sun. Pool rats will want to pack flip flops, goggles, floaties and small swim toys for younger kids, and a deck of waterproof playing cards for teens.

Take a break

Snacks on snacks on snacks: it’s the secret sauce to keeping everyone in the family happy.

Will common sense keep you safe and sane in Vegas with kids?

Vegas is safer than most large cities popular for family vacations. Before heading to the Strip, prepare younger and more sensitive kids to expect loud noises (like an erupting volcano or blasting fountains), bright flashing neon lights and lots and lots of people. Show them YouTube videos of these attractions to preview what to expect before strolling the Strip.



For your sanity and theirs, well-fed and well-rested kids (and caregivers) are the secret sauce to the whole family enjoying your vacation. Return to the hotel for a midday nap (everyone may want one!) or a refreshing dip in the pool. For a taste of zen, you can escape from the hustle and bustle on the Strip into the free peaceful oasis at the Flamingo’s Wildlife Habitat.

As with any major city, avoid less populated areas, stay aware of your surroundings and be alert.

The Shiniest Place on Earth, Las Vegas, delights families with kids of all ages. With this guide you will confidently book a winning vacation to remember, full of thrills, relaxation, nature and priceless memories. It’s a safe bet you and your kids will leave Vegas spending your ride home figuring out when you can double down on the next family Vegas trip.

Lisa Grabelle has been traveling all her life…and loving it! She lives in New Jersey.

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