Hotel Review

Although it may seem preposterous, some hotels in Las Vegas are geared to kids -- like Circus Circus, which is located at the northern end of the Strip. Book a room here and the whole family will be able to embark on a flight of fancy.

Start your adventure at The Adventuredome, a five-acre theme park situated beneath a climate-controlled dome covered with pink glass. It contains at least 25 unique rides. The brave at heart can hop on the Canyon Blaster, a double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster, or the Rim Runner, a water flume ride. The younger set is sure to enjoy Miner Mike, a runaway coal train, or the Thunderbirds, a squadron of not-so-high-flying 1920s-style airplanes. Plus, several virtual reality film rides are broadcast in the FX Theatre, including "SpongeBob SquarePants 4-D" and "Happy Feet: Mumble's Wild Ride 4-D," for all ages.

And the family fun doesn't end in the amusement park. Aspiring artists and cartoon movie fans can immerse themselves in an animated world at the Chuck Jones Experience. You'll discover interactive exhibits along with a display of more than 250 drawings, doodles and paintings by the legendary "Looney Tunes" animator here. There is also a gift shop and classroom where special workshops and lectures are held.

Parents looking for more adult-oriented pastimes can play slots in the nearby Skyrise Casino or head downstairs to the main casino floor, where there is a poker room, a race and sports book, more than 40 table games (note: free lessons in poker, blackjack, roulette and craps are offered daily) and more than 1,500 of the latest slot and video poker machines.

Ironically, situated above is the famed Circus Circus Midway, where you can win stuffed animals and other toys by trying your luck at one of more than 200 popular carnival games. In the center of all the action is the Midway Stage, home to free live circus acts featuring performers from around the world. Shows run every half hour from early afternoon until late at night.

You'll actually encounter clownin' around everywhere on the property. Since opening in 1968, Circus Circus has presented roving clowns and other beloved circus acts not only on stages in the Midway and The Adventuredome, but also wandering the floor space throughout both facilities -- this includes the lobby, the shopping promenade and other gathering spots. Clowns are like ambassadors at Circus Circus. In addition to their merrymaking, they answer questions, give directions and make any waits in line pass by enjoyably.

When it's time to eat, you'll find something for everyone at this resort -- from quick snacks to full-service restaurants and the massive Circus Buffet. The gourmet dining room, THE Steak House, has long been acclaimed for its perfectly prepared prime cuts of meat cooked on a mesquite charcoal broiler. The Garden Grill serves a menu of American favorites, and the Pizzeria is a whimsical spot for freshly baked pizza with an array of tempting toppings. If you want to knock back a few drinks accompanied by a gigantic burger or hot dog, stop by Rock & Rita's, where you'll also be entertained by flair bartenders and can order libations in a 44-ounce ceramic toilet container. Pick up a sweet treat at Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, an overstuffed sandwich at the Westside Deli or a bagel and a cup of joe at Barista. And don't miss the most enchanting eatery on the premises -- a snack bar in the Midway designed to resemble a carousel. It rotates high above the casino floor -- and the gelato is simply divine!

Rounding out the amenities at Circus Circus are pools, the Alexandra Noel Beauty Salon and shops that sell everything from designer fragrances to taffy and old-time photos. 

Want to tie the knot? Weddings are conducted in the Chapel of the Fountain, which has a romantic English garden setting.

Circus Circus boasts several different kinds of accommodations. There are comfortable, traditional rooms along with 135 spacious suites in the West, Casino and Skyrise towers. Circus Circus Manor is a series of five three-story buildings that offer motor lodge-style rooms and parking. Plus, the KOA Circusland RV Park is spread out on 23 acres and encompasses a convenience store, an arcade, a laundry facility, a playground, pet runs and a large entertainment-oriented room.

Clearly, the ultimate, affordable, family-style resort in Las Vegas is Circus Circus. Where else would you have easy access to a midway under a pink-and-white big top as well as a giant indoor theme park?

-- By Renée LiButti