Beyond the Strip: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Sin City That Kids Will Love 👨🎢
Las Vegas has a reputation for bright lights, big bets, and all-night energy but what most visitors don’t realize is that Sin City has an equally vibrant family-friendly side. Once you step away from the casino floors, you’ll find a world of kid-approved fun: hands-on museums, roller coasters, aquariums, and interactive attractions that bring out the inner child in everyone.
If you’re planning a trip with kids (or even just the young at heart), this guide will help you uncover the best family-friendly things to do in Las Vegas beyond the Strip, where adventure, learning, and laughter meet under the desert sun. 🌞
1. The Discovery Children’s Museum: Hands-On Fun and Learning for Curious Minds 🧠🎨
Located in Downtown Las Vegas near Symphony Park, the Discovery Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families traveling with young explorers. Unlike traditional museums where “don’t touch” signs dominate, this place encourages kids to touch, play, and create.
What Makes It Special:
-
Three floors of interactive exhibits designed for all ages.
-
Kids can climb the Summit Tower, experiment with water flow in the Water World zone, and play grown-up in the Eco City miniature town.
-
Educational play meets entertainment, making it perfect for families who want more than just sightseeing.
💡 Pro Tip: The museum is fully air-conditioned, a lifesaver during summer visits and is a great way to spend half a day before heading to lunch or dinner nearby.

Perfect Family Combo:
After the museum, head over to Atomic Golf Las Vegas for a delicious lunch and fun gameplay. It’s a short drive away and offers the ideal balance of food and family playtime in a lively, tech-driven setting.
2. Atomic Golf Las Vegas: Play, Eat, and Connect Beyond the Fairway 🏌️🍔🎉
When it comes to family-friendly fun in Sin City, few spots combine entertainment and dining quite like Atomic Golf Las Vegas. Located just minutes from the Strip, Atomic Golf offers a multi-sensory golf experience that both kids and adults can enjoy, no experience required.
Why Families Love It:
-
Interactive golf bays that use cutting-edge tech to make every swing exciting.
-
A menu packed with family favorites, from shareable appetizers to hearty lunch and dinner options.
-
Kid-friendly gameplay modes that allow little golfers to aim for glowing targets or compete in fun challenges.
-
Photo-worthy neon-lit interiors that capture the playful spirit of Vegas without the adult-only vibes.
For Family Celebrations 🎈
Atomic Golf is a go-to destination for birthday parties, family reunions, and weekend outings. You can reserve a bay for your group, enjoy food and drinks in between games, and even take advantage of group packages for larger families.
📍 Location Tip: Atomic Golf sits near the STRAT Hotel, just north of the Strip, meaning you’re close enough to the action but far from the casino chaos.
💬 What Families Say: “It’s like Topgolf, but way cooler! The kids didn’t want to leave.”
3. Adventuredome at Circus Circus: The Ultimate Indoor Theme Park Experience 🎡🎠
Just north of the Strip, inside Circus Circus, is a world that feels straight out of a carnival dream the Adventuredome. This five-acre indoor amusement park offers something for every thrill level.
Must-Try Attractions:
-
Canyon Blaster: A double-loop, double-corkscrew coaster (for brave teens and parents).
-
El Loco: High-speed turns and steep drops that’ll get your heart racing.
-
B.C. Bus, Frog Hopper, and Miner Mike: Perfect for younger kids looking for giggles over adrenaline.
-
Midway Games & Arcade Zones: Family-friendly competition at its best.
🎟️ Good to Know: The park is entirely indoors, making it a great escape from the heat or a backup plan for rainy days.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair your Adventuredome adventure with dinner at Atomic Golf’s Cosmic Lounge, a perfect way to unwind after hours of rides and laughter.
4. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay: Dive Into an Underwater World 🦈🌊
Families can experience the deep blue without leaving the desert at the Shark Reef Aquarium in Mandalay Bay. Designed like a sunken shipwreck, it’s home to more than 2,000 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, rays, and even piranhas.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
-
Walk through the 360-degree tunnel and see sharks glide above your head.
-
Touch-friendly exhibits for younger guests.
-
Educational displays that make learning about marine life genuinely engaging.
📸 Photo Tip: The jellyfish tanks and shipwreck-themed tunnel are both stunning for family photos.
When your ocean adventure wraps up, enjoy a laid-back lunch or early dinner at Atomic Golf Las Vegas, where the energy is upbeat, the food is flavorful, and kids can let loose with interactive play.
5. Downtown Container Park: Shopping, Playgrounds & Local Eats 🛍️🍦🎶
For a more relaxed yet still vibrant family outing, Downtown Container Park is a creative urban playground made from repurposed shipping containers. It’s a safe, open-air space that mixes food, shopping, and entertainment in a uniquely local way.
Family Highlights:
-
A giant playground with a treehouse-style jungle gym and slides.
-
Boutique shops and dessert stands for parents and kids alike.
-
Occasional live music and outdoor movie nights on the lawn.
🍨 Don’t Miss: The ice cream and smoothie stands, perfect after a hot Vegas afternoon.
Container Park is close to the Fremont Street Experience, so families can explore both spots easily before capping the day with dinner at Atomic Golf.
6. Springs Preserve: Nature, Science, and Desert Discovery 🌵🔬
For families seeking a mix of outdoor beauty and education, Springs Preserve offers an immersive journey through Las Vegas’ natural and cultural history.
Why Visit:
-
Explore botanical gardens, wildlife exhibits, and walking trails.
-
Discover interactive science exhibits about sustainability and desert life.
-
Seasonal events like butterfly habitats or nature scavenger hunts for kids.
🌞 Best Time to Go: Mornings or early afternoons when the weather’s mild.
It’s an ideal stop before heading to Atomic Golf for a hearty meal, a reward after a day of exploration and learning.
7. AREA15: Futuristic Family Entertainment and Immersive Art 🚀🌀
AREA15 may sound like a place for adults, but it’s surprisingly family-friendly during daytime hours. This immersive entertainment complex combines art, virtual reality, and adventure in one place.
Family-Approved Experiences:
-
Haley’s Comet: A zipline that flies over the entire venue.
-
Museum Fiasco: A light and sound experience that wows both kids and adults.
-
Emporium Arcade Bar (daytime only): Classic and modern games for friendly competition.
🎨 Parent Tip: Visit before 9 p.m., that’s when AREA15 transitions to adult-only hours.
Afterward, head over to Atomic Golf (just minutes away!) for dinner and family fun under the neon glow.
8. The High Roller at The LINQ Promenade: A Family Spin Above Vegas 🎡🌆
No Vegas trip is complete without seeing the city from above and the High Roller Observation Wheel offers a breathtaking, family-friendly way to do it.
Why It’s Great for Families:
-
30-minute rides with air-conditioned cabins.
-
Panoramic views of the Strip, mountains, and city skyline.
-
Kids love spotting landmarks and watching the city sparkle below.
🎟️ Pro Tip: Try sunset rides for stunning family photos and cooler temps.
Round out the evening with dinner at Atomic Golf Las Vegas, where you can keep the fun rolling with food, laughter, and interactive games.
9. Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix: Go-Kart Racing & Classic Family Fun 🏎️🍕
For families that love a bit of friendly competition, the Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix offers go-kart tracks, arcade games, and classic fair food.
Family Highlights:
-
Go-karts for kids and adults.
-
Pizza, burgers, and sweet treats.
-
Carnival-style rides that younger kids adore.
It’s one of the few Vegas attractions where families can spend hours racing, laughing, and making memories, all without the casino noise.
10. Family-Friendly Dining & Play All in One Place: Atomic Golf Las Vegas 🍽️⛳✨

After exploring Vegas’ kid-friendly attractions, there’s no better way to unwind than with lunch or dinner at Atomic Golf.
Why It’s the Perfect Family Stop:
-
Interactive, tech-powered golf bays where everyone can play together.
-
Delicious food and drinks from kids’ meals to family-sized platters.
-
Spacious, comfortable setting with lively music and neon ambiance.
-
Perfect for family bonding, whether it’s a casual meal or a special celebration.
📍 Find It: Atomic Golf Las Vegas, near the STRAT Hotel.
🚗 Free Parking Available!
🕒 Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner.
11. Planning the Perfect Family Day in Sin City 🗓️❤️
Here’s a simple itinerary you can follow for a full day of family fun beyond the Strip:
|
Time |
Activity |
Location |
|
Morning |
Visit the Discovery Children’s Museum |
Downtown Vegas |
|
Midday |
Lunch & play at Atomic Golf Las Vegas |
Near the STRAT |
|
Afternoon |
Explore the Adventuredome or Springs Preserve |
North/West Vegas |
|
Evening |
Catch a family-friendly show or ride the High Roller |
The LINQ Promenade |
🎯 Bonus Tip: Book your bay at Atomic Golf ahead of time, weekends and holidays get busy quickly.
12. Why Vegas Families Choose Atomic Golf as Their Favorite Stop 🌟
Families visiting Las Vegas love Atomic Golf because it combines comfort, cuisine, and creativity. Instead of navigating long casino corridors or noisy crowds, you get a family environment that’s exciting, safe, and easy to enjoy.
Whether you’re a local planning a weekend outing or a traveler exploring new experiences, Atomic Golf Las Vegas is your go-to spot for family-friendly fun beyond the Strip.
Plan Your Family Adventure Today! 🏌️👨👩👧👦
✨ Create unforgettable memories filled with laughter, delicious meals, and interactive fun.
👉 Plan Your Visit to Atomic Golf Las Vegas
🍽️ Book Your Family Lunch or Dinner and see why it’s one of the top-rated family-friendly things to do in Sin City.

















