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Looking for a family-friendly vacation destination that offers a wide variety of activities for kids? Look no further than Nevada! From the bright lights of Las Vegas to the natural wonders of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, there are plenty of options for families with kids of all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best places to take kids in Nevada.
Las Vegas, Nevada may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the best places to take kids on a family vacation, but Sin City is surprisingly kid-friendly. With thrilling theme parks, hands-on museums, and entertaining attractions, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
And of course, you can’t forget about the iconic Las Vegas Strip, where you’ll find plenty of shows, restaurants, and shopping options.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Nevada has plenty to offer as well. Lake Mead and Lake Mohave are two of the most popular water sport playgrounds in the state, offering year-round water recreation in the Mojave desert.
And for those who prefer to stay on land, there are dozens of parks packed with family outdoor activities, as well as natural wonders around every bend. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Nevada has some of the very best places to take kids.
Las Vegas Natural History Museum
900 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101
If you are looking for a family-friendly activity in Las Vegas that is both educational and fun, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a great option. The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase the natural world, including displays on dinosaurs, marine life, and Nevada’s own flora and fauna.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Treasures of Egypt exhibit, which features artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies and sarcophagi. The exhibit is both educational and interactive, with hands-on activities that allow kids to learn about the culture and history of ancient Egypt.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers a variety of programs and events for children, including summer camps, story time, and animal feedings. The animal feedings, which are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, allow kids to watch as museum staff feed the animals in the museum’s live animal exhibits.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children. If you plan to visit multiple times, you may want to consider purchasing a membership, which provides unlimited admission for a year.
The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is one of the best places to take kids in Nevada. It offers a unique and educational experience that is sure to be enjoyed by the whole family.
Nevada State Railroad Museum
2180 S Carson St, Carson City, NV 89701
If your kids love trains, then the Nevada State Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in Carson City and Boulder City, this museum is dedicated to preserving the railroad heritage of Nevada. Here, you and your family can experience the thrill of riding on a historic steam train, explore the exhibits on the history of railroads in Nevada, and even take part in hands-on activities.
At the Carson City museum, you can take a ride on the historic V&T Railroad, which was once used to transport silver and gold from the Comstock Lode. The train takes you on a scenic journey through the Carson River Canyon, and you can enjoy stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains as you ride.
The museum also features a variety of exhibits on the history of railroads in Nevada, including displays on locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars.
In Boulder City, you can ride on the historic Boulder City Branch Line, which was used to transport workers and supplies during the construction of Hoover Dam. The train takes you on a scenic journey through the desert, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Mead and the surrounding mountains.
The museum also features a variety of exhibits on the history of railroads in Nevada, including displays on locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars.
Both museums offer a variety of hands-on activities for kids, including train rides, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Your kids can learn about the science of steam engines, explore the cab of a locomotive, and even try their hand at operating a model train.
The Nevada State Railroad Museum is definitely one of the best places for families with kids of all ages. With its historic trains, engaging exhibits, and hands-on activities, this museum is sure to be a hit with train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Adventuredome Theme Park
2880 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
Located in Las Vegas, Adventuredome Theme Park is a must-visit destination for families with kids of all ages. With five acres of indoor fun, there’s something for everyone at this amusement park.
Rides and Attractions
Adventuredome Theme Park has a variety of rides and attractions that are sure to thrill and entertain your kids. The park’s signature ride, El Loco, is a 72-second, adrenaline-pumping ride that takes you through twists, turns, and drops. Other popular rides include Canyon Blaster, the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster, and the Sling Shot, a ride that launches you 100 feet into the air.
For younger kids, there are plenty of milder rides like the Circus Carousel and the Miner Mike roller coaster. The park also has a mini golf course, laser tag, and arcade games to keep everyone entertained.
Food and Shopping
When you need a break from the rides, there are plenty of food options to choose from at Adventuredome Theme Park. From pizza and burgers to ice cream and cotton candy, there’s something for every taste bud. The park also has a variety of snack stands and beverage carts throughout the park.
If you’re looking for souvenirs to remember your trip, the Adventuredome Theme Park has several gift shops that sell everything from t-shirts and hats to stuffed animals and toys. You can also find a variety of Las Vegas-themed souvenirs to take home with you.
Adventuredome Theme Park is a great place to take your kids for a day of fun and excitement. With a variety of rides, attractions, and food options, there’s something for everyone at this Las Vegas destination.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the perfect destination for families with kids who love the outdoors. With over 1.5 million acres of land and water, Lake Mead Recreation Area offers a wide range of activities that are sure to keep kids entertained.
Camping and Picnicking
Camping and picnicking are two of the most popular activities at Lake Mead Recreation Area. The park has several campgrounds that offer a range of amenities, from basic tent sites to RV hookups.
Some of the most popular campgrounds include Boulder Beach Campground, Las Vegas Bay Campground, and Echo Bay Campground. The park also has several picnic areas that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.
Boating and Fishing
Lake Mead Recreation Area is a haven for boaters and anglers. The park has several marinas where visitors can rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft. Fishing is also a popular activity at Lake Mead, with the lake being home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, striped bass, and catfish. Visitors can fish from shore or from a boat, and the park offers several fishing piers and docks.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend camping trip or a day spent on the water, Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the perfect destination for families with kids. With a wide range of activities and amenities, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park.
Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary
1265 Deerlodge Rd, Reno, NV 89508
If you’re looking for a place to get up close and personal with Nevada’s wildlife, look no further than Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary. Located just outside of Reno, this 38-acre sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and providing a safe haven for injured, abandoned, and non-releasable wildlife.
Animal Ark offers a variety of educational programs, tours, and events that are perfect for families with kids. You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, attend a special event, or even have a birthday party at Animal Ark.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of animals, including wolves, bears, big cats, birds of prey, and more. Animal Ark’s mission is to provide a natural environment for these animals, so you’ll get to see them in their natural habitats.
One of the highlights of Animal Ark is the chance to see the animals up close and personal. Animal Ark offers a variety of animal encounters, where you can get up close and personal with some of the sanctuary’s residents. You can even book a private encounter with your favorite animal.
Animal Ark is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. Admission prices are reasonable, and all proceeds go towards supporting the sanctuary’s mission. If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary is definitely worth a visit.
Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park is a perfect destination for families with kids. It offers a variety of activities and adventures to keep everyone entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Great Basin National Park with your kids.
Lehman Caves Tour
The Lehman Caves Tour is a must-see attraction in Great Basin National Park. It’s a guided tour that takes you through a beautiful underground cave system. You’ll get to see unique formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting rock formations. The tour lasts about an hour and is suitable for all ages.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best activities in Great Basin National Park. There are trails for every ability level, from easy to strenuous. The Sky Islands Forest Trail is an easy, wheelchair-accessible trail, while the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail is a strenuous climb to the summit of Wheeler Peak. The Bristlecone Trail is a moderate hike that leads to a grove of Bristlecone Pine trees that are 3,000-5,000 years old.
Alpine Lakes Loop
The Alpine Lakes Loop is a 2.7-mile hike that takes you through a beautiful alpine landscape. The trailhead is located at the end of the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. The trail is suitable for all ages and offers stunning views of Stella Lake and Teresa Lake.
Astronomy Programs
Great Basin National Park is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing. The park offers a variety of astronomy programs throughout the year, including star parties and telescope viewings. These programs are suitable for all ages and are a great way to learn about the night sky.
Wildlife Viewing
Great Basin National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. The park offers several opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the Baker Creek Road, the Snake Creek Road, and the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. Remember to keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter and never feed them.
Great Basin National Park is an unforgettable adventure for families with kids. With its unique landscapes, stunning views, and variety of activities, it’s a must-visit destination in Nevada.
Springs Preserve
333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107
Springs Preserve is a 180-acre cultural institution in Las Vegas that is perfect for families with kids. This institution commemorates the dynamic history of Las Vegas and provides a vision for a sustainable future. Here are some of the highlights of this attraction.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden at Springs Preserve is a great place to take your kids. It is home to over 1,200 species of plants and animals, including some rare and endangered species. Your kids will love exploring the different gardens, including the desert garden, the rose garden, and the herb garden. The Botanical Garden also has a butterfly habitat where your kids can see butterflies up close.
Trails and Playgrounds
Springs Preserve has over four miles of trails that are perfect for hiking with your kids. The trails are easy to walk and are suitable for all ages. Along the way, you will see beautiful desert landscapes and wildlife. There are also several playgrounds located throughout the preserve that your kids will love. The playgrounds have swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as shaded areas for parents to relax.
Springs Preserve is a must-visit attraction if you are in Las Vegas with your kids. With its botanical garden, trails, and playgrounds, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Mountain Springs, NV 89161
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful natural area located just 17 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. It is a great place to take kids for a day of outdoor adventure and exploration. With its stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic drives, Red Rock Canyon offers plenty of opportunities for families to connect with nature.
One of the best kid-friendly trails to hike in Red Rock Canyon is the Calico Tanks Trail. This trail has a 4.8-star rating from over 5,600 reviews on AllTrails.com. It is a 2.3-mile hike with an elevation gain of 419 feet. Along the way, you will see stunning views of the Las Vegas Valley and the surrounding mountains. The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it a great option for families with kids of all ages.
In addition to hiking, Red Rock Canyon offers many other activities for kids to enjoy. The scenic drive through the park is a must-do, as it offers breathtaking views of the red rock formations. You can also go rock climbing on the sandstone cliffs, which is a popular activity for adventurous families.
For younger kids, the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits. The center features a children’s discovery area, where kids can learn about the plants and animals that call Red Rock Canyon home. The center also offers a Junior Ranger Program, where kids can earn a badge by completing activities and learning about the park’s natural resources.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Nevada is one of many great places to take kids for a day of outdoor adventure and exploration. With its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and educational programs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Wetlands Park Nature Preserve
7050 Wetlands Park Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89122
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity in Nevada, Wetlands Park Nature Preserve is a great option. This 210-acre nature preserve is located in Clark County and offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in an oasis of tall trees and babbling streams.
The Wetlands Park Nature Preserve Loop is a 2.1-mile trail that’s perfect for families with kids. The trail is generally considered an easy route, with an elevation gain of only 36 feet. It takes an average of 38 minutes to complete, making it a great option for families with young children.
One of the best things about Wetlands Park Nature Preserve is that it’s a popular area for birding, running, and walking. So, you’re likely to encounter other people while exploring. The park is also home to three distinct habitats, which means you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of plants and animals.
If you’re planning a visit to Wetlands Park Nature Preserve, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. There are also several picnic areas in the park, so you can bring a lunch and make a day of it.
Wetlands Park Nature Preserve is a great option for families looking to spend some time outdoors in Nevada. With its easy trail, variety of habitats, and picnic areas, it’s a great place to spend a day with the kids.
Lied Discovery Children’s Museum
360 Promenade Pl, Las Vegas, NV 89106
If you’re looking for a fun, educational places for your kids in Nevada, the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in downtown Las Vegas, this museum features dozens of interactive exhibits that will captivate and engage young minds.
The museum is designed for children aged 12 and under, with exhibits covering a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture.
- Eco City: This exhibit teaches kids about environmental sustainability and features a simulated city where they can learn about recycling, energy conservation, and more.
- Toddler Town: Designed for children aged 5 and under, this exhibit features a variety of hands-on activities that encourage exploration and learning.
- Water World: This exhibit explores the science of water and includes a water play area where kids can experiment with water flow, pressure, and more.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These include workshops, performances, and hands-on activities that are designed to inspire creativity and curiosity.
Admission to the museum is $14.50 for adults and children, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and Nevada residents. The museum is open daily from 9am to 4pm, with extended hours on select days.
The Lied Discovery Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for families with young children. With its engaging exhibits and fun activities, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Nevada
Nevada has many of the best places to visit for families with kids of all ages. With an abundance of kid-friendly attractions, Nevada promises to keep your family entertained throughout your stay. From thrilling theme parks to hands-on museums and entertaining attractions, Nevada has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a city break, Las Vegas is a great option. Sin City is surprisingly a kid-friendly vacation destination with scores of attractions to keep the whole gang entertained. You can visit the iconic Hoover Dam, explore Lake Meade, or head to the Grand Canyon for a day trip.
If you prefer the great outdoors, Nevada has plenty of options for you. You can visit the Great Basin National Park, where you can see the ancient bristlecone pine trees, the oldest living organisms on Earth.
You can also explore Lake Tahoe, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, or visit Nevada’s ghost towns, where you can learn about the state’s rich mining history.
No matter what your interests are, Nevada promises to keep your family entertained. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions, Nevada is the perfect destination for your next family vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Nevada
What are some family-friendly activities in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is known for its nightlife and casinos, but there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy as well. The High Roller at The LINQ offers breathtaking views of the city, while the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is a great place to learn about marine life. The Adventuredome Theme Park at Circus Circus and the Discovery Children’s Museum are also popular choices for families.
What are the best places to visit with kids in Nevada?
Nevada has plenty of options for families traveling with kids. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a great place to enjoy water activities, while the Springs Preserve and Nevada State Museum offer interactive exhibits and nature walks. Great Basin National Park is a must-visit for families who love the outdoors, and the Hoover Dam is a fascinating engineering marvel that kids will love to explore.
What is the age range for Great Wolf Lodge?
Great Wolf Lodge is a popular family-friendly resort with locations in several states, including Nevada. The resort is designed for families with children of all ages, with activities and amenities for toddlers, kids, and teens. However, some of the activities may have age restrictions, so it’s best to check with the resort before booking.
What are some fun things to do in Nevada with toddlers?
Traveling with toddlers can be challenging, but Nevada has plenty of options for families with young children. The Discovery Children’s Museum in Las Vegas offers hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages, while the Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden is a sweet and colorful destination that toddlers will love. The Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson is also a unique and exciting experience for young children.
Is the Discovery Children’s Museum worth visiting?
The Discovery Children’s Museum in Las Vegas is a popular attraction for families with kids. The museum features interactive exhibits and activities that encourage learning and exploration, making it a fun and educational destination for kids of all ages. With exhibits on science, art, and culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
What are some popular family-friendly beaches in Nevada?
While Nevada is known for its desert landscapes, there are still some great beaches to enjoy. Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for families, with plenty of water activities and scenic views. The beaches at Lake Mead National Recreation Area are also a great option, with sandy shores and calm waters for swimming and boating.
