Hey there, fellow parent-planners! ๐ If you’re thinking of taking the kids to Las Vegas over the holiday season, youโre in for a treat. While Las Vegas may be best known for its nightlife, it actually has tons of festive family-friendly activities to make your holiday trip unforgettable. Hereโs how to make the most of the holidays in Vegas with the little ones by your side.
๐NOTE: I DID include several (more than usual!) Las Vegas travel links in this article (not only as an affiliate) but because there are lots of deals I want you and your family to take advantage of- I do the same when I travel!)๐
1. Festive Light Displays and Outdoor Attractions
Letโs start with the holiday light displaysโLas Vegas goes all out! One of the most popular events is the Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Running until January, this 2.5-mile drive-through lights up the night with millions of lights. Plus, the kids can join the Santa Tram for a unique open-air experience with extra sparkle and hot cocoa (just bundle up, it gets chilly!)โ
For a twist on traditional holiday lights, check out the Ethel M Chocolate Factoryโs Cactus Garden. Their garden is draped with over a million lights, transforming the desert landscape into a holiday wonderland. Admission is just $2 per person, and all proceeds go to local charities, so you get to enjoy the lights while giving backโ
2. Seasonal Activities for Active Families
If your family loves being active, head over to Downtown Summerlin’s Rock Rink for ice skating under the stars. The rink opens through mid-January, offering an 8,000-square-foot real-ice surface with holiday tunes and lights, perfect for an evening of festive fun. Tickets are $17.95, including skate rental, and the whole family can warm up afterward with seasonal snacks and hot drinksโ
Another hit with families is the Jupiter Express Holiday Train at Downtown Summerlin. This cute holiday train circles the rink and holiday tree, offering a whimsical ride for just $5 per personโkids under one ride free! Itโs perfect for little ones who might be too young for ice skatingโ
3. Family-Friendly Hotels with Built-In Entertainment
Choosing the right hotel is key to a relaxing family vacation. The Mirage on the Strip is a great choice, with a volcano show, aquarium, and indoor rainforestโkids can explore without leaving the hotel! Or consider the South Point Hotel just off the Strip, which offers an arcade, bowling, and even a movie theaterโ
Mandalay Bay is also a family favorite. This hotel has a huge pool complex with a wave pool, lazy river, and lagoon pools, making it feel like a beach getaway right in the desert. This is an ideal spot for families wanting some downtime between holiday eventsโ
4. Family Shows and Entertainment
No Vegas holiday is complete without a show! Options like Mystรจre by Cirque du Soleil deliver on the acrobatic wow-factor that kids will love. The Blue Man Group is another crowd-pleaser, with its humor, lights, and interactive elements. Tickets go fast during the holiday season, so booking in advance is a good ideaโ
The Tournament of Kings Dinner Show at Excalibur goes full holiday mode with their โโTwas the Knightโ show, blending medieval jousting and holiday spirit. This family-friendly dinner show is an engaging experience with knights, dragons, and a festive storylineโ
5. Giving Back with Holiday Cheer
One unique Vegas experience for the holidays is the Giving Machines in Henderson and Downtown Summerlin. These are vending machines with a twist: instead of snacks, you โbuyโ donations that go directly to charities supporting people in need. This is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joy of giving during the holidaysโ
6. Pro Tips for Parents Visiting Vegas with Kids
- Avoid Late Nights on the Strip: While the Strip is magical at night, it can get busy and overwhelming. Consider day trips to quieter family-friendly spots and venture out early in the evening for lights and attractions.
- Book in Advance: Holiday events and family shows fill up fast, so itโs a good idea to book tickets for popular events and attractions ahead of time.
- Take Advantage of Daytime Attractions: From shark tanks to light shows, Vegas has tons to offer during the day, and itโs often less crowded.
- Pack Layers: Yes, youโre in the desert, but December and January can be chilly, especially at night.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Whether itโs skating under the stars, enjoying holiday lights from your car, or cozying up at a family-friendly hotel, Las Vegas has something for everyone this holiday season. So pack those holiday sweaters, grab some cocoa, and get ready to make some magical memories with your family in Vegas!
Let me know if youโd like more tips for specific ages or more ideas on where to stay. Happy holiday planning! ๐
Source: NVMoms, Family Vacation Hubs
