Unique Las Vegas: Family-Friendly Fun On and Off the Strip

Discover fun for the entire family with these decidedly different experiences on and off the Strip.

Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, shows, dining and nightlife. But for a unique Vegas vacation for the entire family, try adding these off-the-beaten-path experiences to your itinerary.

Off-Road Adventures

With all the bright lights and bustling crowds along the Strip, it can be easy to forget that Las Vegas is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Thrill seekers will love exploring the scenic terrain during an ATV tour. You’ll find offerings that cater to nearly every level of interest and ability, guiding you through the striking landscapes of the nearby Valley of Fire State Park. For a child-friendly alternative, try a dune buggy excursion.

Ice Hockey in the Desert

Cool off in the desert heat by going to a hockey game. Vegas has a new NHL franchise –– the Golden Knights, who went all the way to the Stanley Cup finals their very first year. If you’re in town during hockey season (October through April), check out an electrifying Golden Knights game at T-Mobile Arena, just a block off the Strip.

Unique Las Vegas- mob museumUnique Museums

Downtown’s Mob Museum, set in a former courthouse, immerses you in the world of the Las Vegas underground, where organized crime really did call the shots. A vintage electric chair, a piece of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre wall, and a hands-on crime lab are just a few of the exhibits.

Though Las Vegas has gotten into the habit of tearing things down when they get old, the acclaimed Neon Museum has preserved and proudly displays many of the city’s iconic neon signs of yesteryear. Many of these signs are bona fide artistic masterpieces, and the vibrant relics illuminate Vegas’ storied past.

Unique Las Vegas Free Vegas

Believe it or not, some of the coolest things to do in Las Vegas are free. You’ll be dazzled by The Volcano at The Mirage and the iconic dancing fountains at The Bellagio, each of which erupt with color and spectacle daily — and nightly. Or take a selfie with one of the colorful Chilean flamingos — stars of a 15-acre wildlife habitat at, of course, The Flamingo.

On the first Friday of the month, the community festival First Friday Las Vegas takes place downtown. You can enjoy local art, music, food and more –– perfect for a casual stroll and great people-watching.

Lion Habitat Ranch

This wildlife sanctuary is home to several dozen lions and other creatures that were formerly in animal shows on the Strip. You can watch the animals being fed and see the resident giraffe, Ozzie, paint unique works of art. Behind-the-scenes tours are also available. The Lion Habitat Ranch is located in Henderson, about 20 minutes south of the city. It is open Friday through Monday; check the website for seasonal hours.

Where to Stay:

Marriott’s Grand Chateau®