Nine places to kick it with the kids

So you brought the kids to Las Vegas? Decades ago, it would have been absolute nonsense bringing them, but today, things are a little different. Despite being nicknamed Sin City, Vegas has become a family vacation destination. This list of nine places to take the whole family supports that claim.

1. Jeff Civillico: Comedy in Action (The Linq Hotel)

The Energizer Bunny has nothing on Jeff Civillico. He just keeps going and going with his fast-paced physical comedy that has the whole family laughing. The sidesplitting jokes may fly right over kids’ heads, but don’t worry—the parents will be laughing. Throw in some amazing juggling and nail-biting stunts and Civillico’s show becomes the family dinner table topic for some time to come. 702.777.2782

2. Adventuredome (Circus Circus)

Under the pink dome sits the Strip’s very own amusement park, more than two dozen rides and attractions set on 5 acres. While the kids ride the merry-go-round, adults can get merry with frozen margaritas. Whether you’re looking for the slow and safe rides for kids or the adrenaline-pumping rides for adults, there’s something for everyone here. The park takes some time to fully explore, so plan ahead for the half-day adventure. 702.794.3939

3. Shark Reef Aquarium (Mandalay Bay)

Parents score some major points with a trip to Shark Reef, a $60 million aquarium in the middle of the desert. The 1.3 million-gallon shipwreck portion allows for nearly 360-degree views of more than 15 species of sharks and more than 2,000 inhabitants swimming just on the other side of the glass—scary and cool, all at the same time. 702.632.4555

4. Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat (The Mirage)

Tigers and lions and dolphins, oh my! Tucked away in the heart of the hotel lies a sanctuary for some very special mammals. The Trainer for a Day option gets guests in the water with some of the dolphins. And make sure to snap shots of the kiddos during the hands-on activities; it’s a sure shot for the cover of this year’s Christmas card. 702.791.7188

5. The Mac King Comedy Magic Show (Harrah’s)

He’s about the only guy you would want tempting your kids with Fig Newtons to get them to do what he wants. King, a longtime Vegas comedy magician with a corny plaid coat and aw-shucks delivery, loves having kids assist him onstage for some of his awesome magic tricks, but it’s also his talent for slick innuendo and comedy that lead to big laughs for all the adults in the audience. 702.369.5111

6. The High Roller (The Linq Promenade)

You might think being stuck in a confined space with a bunch of kids would be more nightmare than dream, but if it’s a spacious pod on the world’s tallest observation wheel (and there’s the option of a bar serving cocktails inside, too), well, this is the perfect adventure for the whole gang. Plus, no one will be able to deny the attraction of the High Roller’s amazing city views from 550 feet up in the air. 800.223.7277

7. KISS by Monster Mini Golf (4503 Paradise Road)

The final hole at this mini golf course requires golfers to putt their ball up the giant replica of Gene Simmons’ world-famous tongue—what else is there to say? Adults will love all the rock memorabilia taking up almost every available space, and the kids will love the black-light course with glowing neon art, as well as the arcade games after finishing a round of golf. It’s definitely a rock ’n’ roll adventure for the rock ’n’ roll family. 702.558.6256

8. Sun Buggy Fun Rentals (6925 Speedway Blvd.)

Moms and dads will bask in the glow of coolness when booking the Vegas Family Fun Romp package with Sun Buggy. The off-road vehicles can seat four to six people, and you’re in the driver’s seat. Hit the dunes spread across 15,000 acres with the lights of Las Vegas glowing in the distance. Night excursions are also available. 866.728.4443

9. Springs Preserve (333 S. Valley View Blvd.)

If it looks like Dad is glued to the craps table till dinnertime, no problem. Take the kids for an all-day learning and playing adventure at Springs Preserve. The attraction is jam-packed with exhibits, interactive play stations, botanical gardens and hiking trails, plus other features like the live animal show, the simulated train ride and the butterfly habitat. Keep the kids nourished at Divine Café, while the adults enjoy the happy hour menu on Thursdays. 702.822.7700