It’s estimated over 38 million individuals visited Las Vegas in 2011, many of them contributing to the city’s annual gambling revenue of over $6 billion. Vegas is certainly a gambler’s paradise, but believe it or not, there are a multitude of inexpensive sights scattered throughout this massive city that have absolutely nothing to do with slots, poker chips, buffets or shopping.
- Las VegasThomas Hawk
If you’re still not convinced Sin City will provide you with the wholesome, family-friendly vacation you’re after, here is a sampling of the many things to do in Las Vegas that you can be enjoyed without shielding your kid’s eyes or spending a small fortune.
Bellagio Fountains
Forget the action on the casino floor, the real excitement of visiting the multimillion dollar hotel is found just outside the front doors. After the sun goes down, the Bellagio hotel’s fountain comes alive for a 15 to 30 minute show set to the music of Frank Sinatra, the Beatles and some of Broadway’s biggest hits, just to name a few. It’s possible to view the light and water show from the Bellagio’s outdoor restaurant, but be prepared to shove through the crowds to catch a short glimpse. Instead, head across the street to the Paris Hotel and enjoy the synchronized spouts of water and music without having to fight the crowds.
Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay
Tucked inside the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, you’ll discover the Shark Reef, a series of impressive tunnels and massive tanks that feature a wide array of sharks, exotic fish and turtles. Over 2500 species of underwater wildlife seems extremely accessible, as you make your way through the cavernous tunnels, which also give you a true sense of the shark’s massive girth. The price of admission is a little exorbitant, but the look of your children’s faces as they watch the sharks and turtles approach them from behind the plexiglass is well worth the cost.
Adventuredome
Voted one of Las Vegas’ top tourist attractions in 2010, the Adventuredome is a little slice of family-friendly entertainment amongst the debauchery and decadence of the Las Vegas Strip. This indoor amusement park boasts over 25 rides, including roller coasters, an arcade, miniature golf and several other distractions to wear out the children. Even if you’re not keen on gorging yourself of fattening foods and watching your little ones defy gravity on roller coasters, at least the Adventuredome boasts the feature every tourist in Las Vegas will appreciate: air conditioning!
Fremont Street Experience
After spending a few not-so-unexpectedly expensive hours or days in Las Vegas, you’re probably ready to take in an attraction that features the magic word, free. The Fremont Street Experience provides you with the cheapest form of entertainment that will actually pique your children’s interest for longer than 20 minutes. The four city block long, 1,500-feet high sound and light display is found inside the Plaza Hotel; it features a variety of shows depending on the day and time. There’s also a real possibility you could catch a live band playing, which is always once again, completely free.
Imperial Palace Auto Collection
You’ve done the unthinkable and actually hit it big at the slots or blackjack table! Now:Â Â what to do with this influx of cash? Well, you could start a retirement fund or, instead, hit the Imperial Palace Auto Collection and see what’s for sale. The collection is constantly evolving and features some of the most impressive examples of automotive glory in the western United States. Aside from dreaming about owning a 1957 Jaguar, which by the way sold for $7 million, you can simply enjoy the some of the collection’s most noteworthy additions, including Fascist dictator Mussolini’s 1939 Alfa Romeo and Marilyn Monroe’s 1955 Lincoln Capri. The Imperial Palace Auto Collections is open daily and offers discounts for seniors and children under 12.
The Hoover Dam
There’s one perennial favorite that parents have been dragging their children to for years and that is the Hoover Dam. Located 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas, the 6.6 million tons of the Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that is definitely not to be missed and don’t be surprised when your kids tell you this sight on Lake Mead was their favorite part of the trip.
Dexter Martin is a guest blogger and a lifelong Las Vegas local that contributes to several travel blogs.
