We understand. You only get so much vacation time each year and don't want leave the kids at home. Don't worry about it. We've got you covered.

Q: Where should we stay to be close to activities our whole family will enjoy?

A: Many of our friends with families like to stay at Circus Circus,Stratosphere and Excalibur since they're close to family-friendly activities. MGM Grand and Mirage are also good choices. The Mandalay Bay is also a good find for families, featuring all-ages fare like the Shark Reef and the Mandalay Bay Beach. For families with larger budgets, the Four Seasons - adjacent to the Mandalay Bay - will customize your hotel room according to the age of your children. Most of the Stations group casinos - all of which are located off the Strip - offer child care, movie theaters and arcades, and are usually very reasonably priced. More information about hotels that offer child care facilities can be found by clicking here .

Q: Where can we all sit down to a fun dinner when we're here?

A: The Rainforest Cafe and Elephant Bar bring out the kid in everybody. Most teens will get a kick out of Planet Hollywood and Quark's is a Trekkie-lover's dream. Choose from a variety of burgers and entrées in an island-themed setting at the Cheeseburger at the Oasis. The NASCAR Cafe , ESPN Zone and the Hard Rock Cafe are always sure-fire bets for the whole family. And if you're cruising through the Forum Shops watching animated statues and feel the need to fill the family's bellies, the Cheesecake Factory's 200-item menu is always a favorite. Got picky kids (or picky parents)? Well, what would a trip to Vegas be without visiting at least one of its famous buffets ?These are usually good one-stop options that often give a break on the price for younger kids.

Q: What shows are kid friendly?

A: Animal lovers of all ages can enjoy seeing stunts by adorable animals at Gregory Popovich's Comedy Pet Theater. If you and your kids are into magic, check out Lance Burton or Mac King. Or let the kids eat with their hands while watching the "Tournament of Kings" show. One show that families with more diverse interests will enjoy is "Blue Man Group." Cirque du Soleil's "Mystère" and "KÀ" seems to delight kids of all ages, and V - The Ultimate Variety Show features a little something for everyone. And don't worry, mom and dad - you'll love these shows too.

Q: What are the best family-friendly activities we will all enjoy?

A: An afternoon at Circus Circus' indoor theme park the Adventuredome is always a hit, as is the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay. If the weather is hot, enjoy your hotel's pool. Other good choices are Gameworks and M&M World at the Showcase Mall and the Lion Habitat at MGM Grand. Animal lovers will also enjoy the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.Madame Tussauds Interactive Wax Attraction is a great place for family photos with wax celebrity look-alikes. For very little dough, you can see some great motion rides at Excalibur. Or you stop by Luxor and ride In Search of the Obelisk. If you're an adventurous bunch, why not take the kids on an exciting trip to Vegas Indoor Skydiving? If you want to sneak some education in with your entertainment, take the family to the Lied Children's Museum - parents will love it too. You can also check out the Ethel M Chocolate Factory tour - it's always a sweet deal!

Q: What outdoor activities will allow us to enjoy the fabulous Las Vegas weather?

A: Well, we're glad you asked. Check out one of our Lake Mead tours, where your clan can take a cruise, ride jet skis or tour Hoover Dam. For families with older kids, an ATV tour or even alandsailing tour might be a great way to take in our beautiful deserts. And Bonnie Springs is a favorite with the kids, thanks to staged gunfights, train rides and plenty of cute animals to pet.

Back to the Vegas Guide