Las Vegas might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family vacation, but it should definitely be on your list, especially if you have teenagers! With iconic shows like The Blue Man Group, attractions like the New York New York Roller Coaster, and amazing food options constantly being added, The Neon City is a great place for the whole family to enjoy. Vegas is a favorite with our teens and we never run out of fun things to do.
Hi, I’m Cindy, your boots-on-the-ground travel scout. Along with my husband and 2 teenagers, we travel all over and report on what’s truly worth your money and most importantly, your precious vacation time. This article is a list of things to do in Las Vegas with teens that are teen-tested and approved! Keep reading for some bonus content on places to eat that my two teens LOVED.
Things to do in Las Vegas With Teens
1. Tour The Sphere and take in Postcards from Earth
The latest and greatest out of Vegas is The Sphere, a 17,000-seat entertainment venue with its now iconic colossal spherical structure featuring cutting-edge LED technology. There’s almost no place in Vegas where you can’t see the Sphere and its crystal-clear, eye-popping graphics.
My 18-year-old son and I caught one of the much-hyped U2 concerts and can attest the concert experience alone is worth a trip. Not only is the sound state-of-the-art, but the full-on immersive visual experience is mind-blowing.
In addition to the concert, check out Postcards from Earth, a multi-sensory, hyperrealistic visual movie adventure. The Sphere also offers an individual interactive experience where, among other activities, you can create your own 360-degree avatar.
2. See a Mind-Boggling Magician and Mentalist
There are “magicians”, and then there’s Frederic da Silva. I have never seen this show mentioned on any other blog anywhere and it is a MUST SEE. Trust me, the entire family will love this show.
Frederic da Silva delivers a one-of-a-kind performance that will make jaws drop with disbelief. The venue is smaller so every seat feels up close to the action. The entire show is interactive and if you ever wanted to get on stage, there’s a solid chance that can happen (my kid got onstage)!
Minds will be blown as da Silva works his magic and charms the audience with incredibly elaborate scenarios and props that will leave you involuntarily saying “HOW DID HE DO THAT” over and over. We’ve seen him 3 times he is that good. A great option for a more budget-friendly but amazing show. Truly a unique experience.
3. Take in the 360 Degree Views on the High Roller Observation Wheel
At 550 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, the High Roller Wheel is the world’s tallest observation wheel in North America. The best time to go is at night when the lights of the city are illuminated. All of the transparent pods are air conditioned but keep in mind that there is no restroom in the pod. Each revolution is around 30 minutes and outside drinks are allowed.
For the STEM curious, there is a field trip guide you can download here with discussion questions that cover the architecture, technology. science and additional aspects of the Wheel.
4. More Views From the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel
Another visual icon of the Las Vegas strip is the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel. This replica stands 46 stories and is a half-scale replica of the original in Paris. The views are spectacular and go on for miles and miles! This Eiffel Tower also has its own thrilling and free light show that begins nightly from sunset and goes until midnight.
Admission to the observation deck is currently $25 for adults and $19 under the age of 12.
5. Catch an Adrenaline Rush – Fly Linq Zip Line
Fly Linq Zip Line is the only zip line on the strip that lets you soar from a 12-story tower 1,121 feet above Las Vegas Boulevard all the way down the Linq Promenade to the High Roller. You can opt for a typical sitting position or for the more daring “Superman”, which will give riders an optimum viewing angle of all the pedestrians walking directly below.
The minimum height requirement is 3’4″, 60 pounds. Looking up from the ground it might seem pretty terrifying but even my thrill-averse daughter called it more exciting than scary.
6. For Older Kids – Keep that Rush Going on Some Insane Thrill Rides
The most palm sweat-inducing things I’ve ever seen are the experiences atop the Stratosphere Tower. First up, the X-Scream. This coaster “teeter-totters you over the edge of the Tower from 866 feet high, propelling riders head first 27 feet OVER THE EDGE of the tower.” OVER.THE.EDGE. Just typing these words my palms are in a cold sweat.
Then there’s the Big Shot, which “catapults riders at 34 mph from the 921-foot high platform up the mast of the Tower 1091 feet sending your body into 4Gs of force up and negative Gs on the way down as your legs dangle over the Las Vegas Skyline. Last up is the Skyjump, and I can barely type the words, an “open-air leap” off the top of the Stratosphere allllllll the way down to the Strip. Do you dare??
Note, you have to be 52″ tall to ride the X-Scream, 48″ tall for the Big Shot, and at least 14 years old and 52″ tall for the Skyjump.
A little less death-defying but still super fun is the Big Apple Coaster at the New York-New York Hotel. Just the right amount of thrill, in my opinion! While you’re there, for fans of ar Dave and Buster’s arcade games, try your skills at the arcade and win some souvenirs to take home!
7. Show off your Swing at Top Golf
Top Golf is always a hit because no matter your skill level, you can still have a great time. Every bay is climate-controlled and has its own HDTV. Bring your own clubs or use theirs, the hitting is super easy and the game scores itself.
Top Golf food and drinks are also so next level and they deliver it right to you. Their menu features crowd favorites like wings and nachos in addition to a wide variety of options like their birria tacos, miso salmon bowl, and roasted beet hummus plate!
Seriously, the menu is so good. They also have a solid lineup of local and craft brews as well as specialty cocktails. Such a blast!!
8. Shop at Fashion Show Las Vegas
If a shopping spree at Gucci or Chanel isn’t in your teen’s vaca budget, head over to Fashion Show where they can find shops like Lululemon, Dr.Martens, Free People, Sephora, and Urban Outfitters.
There’s also a Hello Kitty Cafe!! Grab an IG selfie with one of their adorable themed cookies, cupcakes, drinks, or soft serve in a Hello Kitty waffle cone!
If you like lobster rolls, you have to check out Luke’s Lobster. Originally from New York City, Luke’s Lobster serves up some of the tastiest and freshest lobster and crab rolls we’ve had. Yelp gives it a 4.3 out of 5 and we agree.
9. Explore the Stunning Hotels
No trip to Vegas is complete without exploring some of the amazing hotels on the strip. Even if you’re not staying there, having a sit-down meal at one of the on-theme restaurants or just walking around feels a bit like being in a theme park! A few of our favorites are The Cosmopolitan, The Bellagio, The Wynn, and the Venetian.
The Cosmopolitan
Easily our favorite hotel. Centrally located on the Strip, the Cosmopolitan epitomizes modern Vegas glamour with its “iconic urban chic interior design for the guest rooms and dream-like public spaces with crystal curtains of chandeliers and digital columns and mirrors.”
The Cosmopolitan easily has one of the top-tier food halls around. If you like eggs, DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT miss Eggslut and their signature dish, “The Slut”, a coddled egg on pureed potatoes. It’s a bonafide flavor and texture experience!
Grab a few Kitchen Sink Cookies at Chef Christina Tosi’s iconic NYC original, MILKbar, and Hattie B’s Famous Hot Chicken from Nashville!
The Bellagio
The Grande Dame of the Las Vegas Strip, The Bellagio oozes luxury Mediterranean grandeur, The Bellagio Fountains are a must-see and one of the most popular attractions. Performances are generally every 30 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes after 7 pm until midnight.
Inside the hotel lobby, be sure to look up and marvel at the stunning multi-colored 1800 square-foot glass floral sculpture from creative pioneer and Seattle’s own, Dale Chihuly. Do not miss The Conservatory and Botanical Garden, an enormous and breathtaking display of flowers, plants, and lavishly themed decor.
The overall theme changes for every season with a special display for Lunar New Year. Just steps from there, for all you chocolate lovers, you won’t want to miss the 27-foot-tall fountain of melted, dark, milk, and white chocolate at Bellagio Patisserie. Satisfy those cravings with a sweet or savory treat. They have a dazzling array of chocolates, macarons, pastries, and sandwiches!
The Venetian
The Venetian is the first Las Vegas hotel we ever stayed in back in 2004, and I’ll never forget the feeling of awe at the detail and grand scale of all the Venice elements, from the canals to the iconic Campanile Tower and Rialto Bridge. Take a ride on one of the indoor and outdoor gondolas as you “float beneath bridges, beside cafes, under balconies, all while coasting down the Grand Canal.”
Also located in the Venetian is crowd favorite Madame Tussauds Las Vegas, the iconic wax museum where you photo op to your heart’s content with your favorite celebs like Beyonce and The Rock. Many of the figures are in super-styled displays where you can really get in on the action!
10. Seven Magic Mountains Art Installation
Not all the fun is only found within the city limits. Within a short drive of the Strip, you can get to the IG famous Seven Magic Mountains by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. This large-scale public work is an installation featuring “seven, 30-35 feet dayglow totems comprised of locally sourced painted boulders.
Once up close, the exhibit is quite the visual marvel to take in. One can really get lost in the picture taking as you walk around and change your viewing angle the appearance of the pillars also changes.
Admission and parking are free and the area allows pets if you want to get your fur baby in on the action. Note, that there are no restrooms or food facilities available so plan accordingly as the desert can be hot and dry at differing times of the year.
11. Valley of Fire State Park
If you want to get the family into the great outdoors, about an hour’s drive from the Strip is Valley of Fire State Park. Worth a day trip, the 40,000-acre park feels a little like stepping into another world. Everywhere you look is bright earth-tone Aztec sandstone nestled in gray and tan limestone, resulting in some of the most beautiful nature-made artwork.
The park also contains 2,000-year-old petroglyphs, many of which can be found in Petroglyph Canyon. Other points of interest in the park include Arch Rock, Elephant Rock, and the Seven Sisters. An easy scenic drive in the early morning or in the hours just before sunset is another great way to see the rock formations at their most luminous. With stops, the drive would take around 2-3 hours.
Note – there is a $10 park entry per vehicle.
Other Popular Things to Do With Teens in Las Vegas
- The Mob Museum – 4.5 Circles on Tripadvisor, over 9,900 reviews
- The Neon Museum – 4.5 Circles on Tripadvisor, over 5,300 reviews
- Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay – 4 Circles on Tripadvisor, over 4,300 reviews.
BONUS Las Vegas Strip Restaurant Guide!!
Deciding on where to eat when you’re traveling with teens can sometimes be tricky. Some might care more about ambiance and others the quality and quantity of the food. Here is a list I’ve compiled of some of our favorite restaurants that have made everyone happy. Starting with the more wallet-friendly and up:
Fast Casual $
In-and-Out Burgers
If you haven’t had it, you have to. Don’t forget to look up the “secret menu” before you order. One easy location is in the LINQ complex, center Strip.
Tacos El Gordo
An iconic Vegas late-night taco must-try. Expect a line but it moves fast.
Crack Shack
Located in the newer Park MGM, here you have chicken, chicken, and more chicken. Try the Coop Deville which has fried Jidori (free range) chicken breast with pickled Fresno chiles and pickles, lime mayo, napa cabbage, and a brioche bun. $$ 4.4 Stars on Yelp, 1, 118 reviews
Eataly
Also located in the new Park MGM, Italian market, Eataly is a “counter-to-table concept comprised of 6 different fresh counters.” You order your meat, pasta, charcuterie, and pizza and as your food is prepared, find yourself a table and save room for some authentic gelato!
Resorts World Food Court
Modeled after the famous hawker centers found in SE Asia, RW brings Michelin Guide favorites like Ah Chun Shandon Dumplings, Streetbrid Las Vegas Spicy Fried Chicken and Waffles, and Geylang Claypot Rice. You can also find great BBQ, Italian food, and sushi. Another plus is there is usually plenty of seating!
Cosmopolitan Food Court
With names like Hattie B’s Hot Nashville Chicken and Bang Bar By Momofuku, everyone will find something delicious here. See if you can find Secret Pizza which is so secret, it isn’t even mentioned on the Cosmopolitan website.
Sit Down Moderate $$
Chica
Located in the Venetian Hotel, brunch here is a tradition. Latin flavors meld perfectly and service is so personal. Gorgeous decor aesthetic is giving art-deco bohemian (is that a thing?). $$ 4.3 Stars on Yelp, 2,300 reviews
Yard Bird
Also in The Venetian, James Beard nominated Yard Bird is the perfect place for a delicious meal after an event at the Sphere. Walk there easily without having to step outside. Their Chicken and Waffles, amazing and so is Lewellyn’s Fine Fried Chicken. Save room for the Key Lime Pie, I’m not joking. Extensive craft cocktail menu. $$ 4.5 Stars on Yelp 7,500 reviews
Nacho Daddy
Not far from The Cosmopolitan, their motto is, “Never a Dry Chip” and they deliver. Sauces, chips, and queso are made in-house daily. Service, friendly as can be, margaritas on point. Traditional Fiesta Nachos, so good as well as the Mexi Cobb Salad. $$ 4.4 Stars on Yelp, over 9,100 reviews
The Peppermill
A longstanding Las Vegas tradition since 1972, step inside and you’ll know what I mean. Turquoise curved booths and an over-the-top fruit presentation with cottage cheese scream vintage! Breakfast is served 24 hours-a-day, and that’s where they really shine. A complimentary printed photo of your group is included, which is such a cute touch! 4 Stars on Yelp 5,280 reviews. $$ 4 Stars on Yelp, 5,300 reviews
Sit Down Night Out $$$
Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen
Eating at Chef Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen is an experience and well worth the price tag in our opinion. Not only is the food here outstanding, the service we received was unparalleled. Our two must-order dishes are the Beef Wellington and Scallops, Ramsay’s signatures. Centrally located on the Strip right smack dab in front of Caesars Palace, it is a good time every time. $$$ 4.4 Stars on Yelp, 11,000 reviews
Scarpetta
Originating out of NYC, Scarpetta is a showstopper for many reasons. Located in the Cosmopolitan Hotel, it’s one of the few restaurants on the Strip where you can get a table with a view of the Bellagio Fountains while you eat! The food is so, so good with signature dishes ranging from the classic spaghetti with tomato and basil, to the osso bucco to the duck and foie gras ravioli. Save room for the Nutella Bomboloni, Nutella and pastry cream-filled doughnuts Nutella ganache, and banana gelato. Need I say more? $$$ 4.2 Stars on Yelp, 1,800 reviews
Bouchon
Iconic French chef, Thomas Keller (who was the primary food consultant for Disney’s Ratatouille) brings an everyday bistro menu to Bouchon, located in the Venetian. Bouchon is one of our favorite restaurants in Vegas and every meal feels comforting and satisfying. The space is big and open, which lends a festive vibe. Steak frites here are legendary as well as the roast chicken and croque madame (white bread, butter, cheese, ham, Mornay sauce, and a fried egg). Save room for the lemon tart, SO good. $$$ 4 Stars on Yelp, 1,500 reviews
Mon Ami Gabi
If you haven’t been to Mon Ami Gabi in Vegas, it should be on your list. First of all, it sits directly across from the Bellagio Fountains. So if you’re lucky enough to score an outside table, you might get treated to several fountain performances. Even if you end up sitting inside, the light and airy bistro is quite beautiful with its decor reminiscent of the Art Nouveau period of design. Traditional French onion soup is the star as well as the steak frites! $$$ 4.2 Stars on Yelp, 12,000 reviews
Sit Down Special Occasion Night Out $$$$
Bazaar Meats
The Michelin-starred Chef Jose Andreas has created a menu that is a guaranteed home run every visit. The food is uncomplicated and you’ll love the careful steak preparations, seafood variety, and amazing sides. The only item that might seem intimidating is the Cotton Candy Foie Gras, but trust me on this one. You have to try it. Both my teens were begging for more. Ambience is festive and casually elegant. $$$$ 4.2 Stars on Yelp 1,800 reviews
L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
A meal at L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon is an unforgettable experience. A bit less expensive and less formal, the “workshop” is a more energetic experience with the opportunity to sit at the bar for a front row to all the kitchen action. They offer several fixed-price menus and wine as well as non-alcoholic pairings. Whichever meu you go with, we cannot recommend the pureed potatoes more highly. There is a reason why they’re iconic. $$$$ 4.5 Stars on Yelp 1,100 reviews.
North Strip
Esther’s Kitchen
If you’re inclined to head off-strip, Esther’s Kitchen is a hidden gem that I selfishly hope stays a bit under the radar. All of the pastas are near perfect. The rest of their seasonal Italian menu is so solid as is their signature sourdough bread and butterscotch budino pudding. Cocktails are so good as are the specialty mocktails! 4.5 Stars on Yelp, 2,200 reviews.
Off-Strip Faves
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
I wish so much we had this sit-down chain in the PNW. We’d be there all the time for a fun and laid-back evening with family and friends over amazing food and fun drinks. They have bison burgers, pancake tacos with bacon candy and fried eggs, crispy deviled eggs, chili crunch ahi tuna, and so much more! $$ 4.5 Stars 3,200 reviews
Kassi Beach House
Located in the Virgin Hotel (about 11 minutes by car from mid-strip) the upscale beach house vibe (think lots of woven rattan hanging lights) resonates big time with the Gen Z crowd. Food is also quite solid featuring interesting departures from the typical, ie Burgers with bacon jam, beet salad with pistachio pesto, lemon EVOO, and watercress. Definitely get the fries with truffle aioli. $$ 4 stars on Yelp, 586 reviews
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