Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Kid / Teen / Underage Fun

Coming to Vegas with your kids and/or underage children and worried there won't be enough to keep them occupied? Think again! Here's some suggestions for some fun activities and restaurants geared toward families or younger kids.

Arcades

New York New York- A roller coaster and an arcade/game area that spans an entire floor and somewhat resembles a carnival. Think Coney Island.

Gameworks - Located next to the MGM Grand Hotel/ A multi-level arcade that offers plenty for kids of all ages (even an upstairs bar for the adults!)

Circus Circus - Huge midway with a circus themed environment and real circus acts take place inside the casino. Even better, the Adventuredome--an indoor adventure park with roller coasters, water rides, laser tag, and arcade games. Check online for coupons before coming. Just be warned parents--this hotel is loaded with little ones. So much so that it can often be overwhelming!

Excalibur - The Carnival-themed midway is a great way to pass the time, but still not as impressive as the ones offered by NYNY or Circus Circus.


Activities

The Lied Discovery Museum - A fun museum that is children oriented.

Las Vegas Springs Preserve- Stroll through desert trails, indoor interactive exhibits and various gardens. You will be impressed by this place and your children will have plenty of fun.

Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay - Very impressive aquarium with sharks and a "petting" tank of stingrays and other water dwellers. Can be a bit pricey.

Bellagio Fountains

Bellagio Flower Gardens - Located inside the hotel, right next to the reception area. Flowers are changed several times a year and are themed to holidays, events, etc.

Caesars Palace "Talking" Statues- Two sets of talking statues are in Caesars and are free to observe. One is located outside of Banana Republic, toward the newer tower area. The other, newer statue is located next to Cheesecake Factory and Virgin Megastore.

Fremont Street Experience- Downtown light show. Very neat area, but can be a bit seedy during the later and very early hours.

Sirens of TI- Free 'pirate' show outside the Treasure Island. Get there early to get a front spot on the bridge. Has recently changed to become a bit more risquey, but still appropriate for all ages in my opinion.

Lion Habitat at MGM Grand- Small observation area where MGM lions are kept. Neat to see, but won't take up much time.

Sigreid and Roy's Secret Garden- Another animal observation area. Much larger than that offered by MGM. There used to be a cost associated with the garden, but I'm not sure if that's still in place.

Gondola Rides- Venetian. Can be expensive for a short 15 minute ride. Choose inside to save money, choose outside for a more romantic ride.

Restaurants (kid/underage friendly)

1. Kahunaville- Treasure Island

2. Cheesecake Factory – Caesar’s Palace Forum Shops

3. Grand Luxe Café- Venetian/Palazzo

4. Rainforest Café- MGM Grand

5. Carnegie Deli- Mirage

6. Food Court- NY/NY

7. ESPN Zone- NY/NY

8. Margaritaville- Flamingo

9. Planet Hollywood- Caeser’s Forum Shops

10. Hard Rock Café- In front of Hard Rock Casino

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