Living in Las Vegas has its perks: endless entertainment options, a vibrant city atmosphere, and year-round sunshine. But when the weather takes a turn — whether it’s an unseasonal rainy day, extreme heat, or a gusty dust storm — keeping the kids entertained indoors becomes a challenge. Luckily, this town is packed with fun, indoor activities for kids in Las Vegas. From trampoline parks and museums to animal exhibits and indoor playgrounds, the city offers plenty of ways to keep your little ones active and engaged. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon of adventure or a laid-back way to spend time together, these indoor options will help you make the most of any less-than-ideal weather day.
Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 indoor things to do in Las Vegas with kids during bad weather!
1. Visit an Indoor Playground
Indoor playgrounds are fantastic spots for kids to burn off energy in a safe and engaging environment. Las Vegas has a variety of options, from trampoline-based play areas to complex jungle gym structures.
- Features: These playgrounds often include slides, ball pits, obstacle courses, and interactive play zones. They are designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring safety and age-appropriate activities for all kids.
- Locations: Some popular spots include Kid’s Empire and Wally Wombats. These locations offer dedicated areas for toddlers, as well as zones for older children.
- Age Appropriateness: Most indoor playgrounds accommodate kids from toddlers to about 12 years old, making them suitable for families with a range of children.
Indoor playgrounds provide hours of active play, making them a top choice for families seeking fun out of the elements.
2. Go Ice Skating or Roller Skating
For a unique and cool indoor experience, consider taking the kids ice skating or roller skating. Las Vegas has a couple of indoor skating rinks that make for a fun adventure regardless of the weather.
- Best Places for Skating: City National Arena and Las Vegas Ice Center offer excellent ice skating experiences for the public, while Crystal Palace Skating Center is ideal for roller skating. Check their websites for public skate times.
- Safety Tips: Ask the skating venues if they provide helmets and pads for younger children. It’s always a good idea to dress the kids in long sleeves and pants for extra protection against falls.
- Rental Information: Skates are typically available for rent at the venues, so there’s no need to bring your own.
Whether your kids are seasoned skaters or just learning, indoor skating can be a memorable way to spend the day.
3. Explore Kid-Friendly Museums
Las Vegas has more to offer than just entertainment — it’s also an educational destination with several kid-friendly museums.
- Top Kids Museums in Las Vegas: The Discovery Children’s Museum is a favorite among families, offering interactive exhibits that encourage kids to explore science, art, and technology. The Natural History Museum is another excellent choice, with dinosaur displays, a marine life section, and even a realistic depiction of the African savanna.
- Age Range: These museums cater to children of all ages, with specific areas for toddlers and exhibits that even adults will find fascinating.
Museums are a great way to combine fun and learning, providing children with an opportunity to explore the world around them in a controlled environment.
4. Spend Time at a Library
Libraries in Las Vegas offer more than just books; they are hubs of activity for children and families.
- Activities for Kids at Local Libraries: Libraries often host storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and educational programs tailored for young visitors.
- Special Programs: Many libraries, such as the Clark County Library and Rainbow Library, feature dedicated children’s areas with interactive play spaces and activities scheduled throughout the week.
Libraries provide a calm, educational break from more active attractions, making them perfect for quieter days indoors.
5. Visit an Animal Exhibit
Animal exhibits are both entertaining and educational, and they give kids a chance to see and interact with animals in ways they might not experience otherwise.
- Two Recommended Animal Attractions: The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is a thrilling underwater adventure, showcasing over 2,000 animals, including sharks, rays, and turtles. SeaQuest Las Vegas offers interactive exhibits where children can touch and feed stingrays, birds, and reptiles.
- Other Experiences: These venues emphasize education and conservation, providing informative tours and encounters that are fun for all ages.
Animal exhibits are ideal for families looking to introduce their kids to the wonders of the animal kingdom, even when the weather is less than ideal.
6. See a Family-Friendly Show
Las Vegas is known for its dazzling shows, and there are plenty of options suitable for families with children.
- Recommendations: The Smith Center hosts Broadway-style productions, musical performances, and special family-focused events, such as children’s plays or seasonal shows. Productions like Disney’s The Lion King, Anastasia, or holiday classics often make their way to this beautiful venue, giving kids a chance to experience live theater in a stunning setting. In addition, there are often kid-friendly concerts by the Las Vegas Philharmonic or fun educational programs that introduce children to the arts.
- Showtimes and Ticket Information: These shows often run multiple times a day, allowing for flexibility in planning. Be sure to check for matinee performances, which are usually more kid-friendly.
Seeing a live show can be a magical experience for kids, creating memories that last well beyond the trip.
7. Have Fun at an Arcade
Arcades are timeless entertainment hubs, offering a mix of classic games and modern video games that appeal to all ages.
- Popular Arcades: Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix and Velocity Esports are among the top spots for families.
- Game Selection and Pricing: These arcades provide everything from pinball machines to virtual reality experiences. Game tokens or cards are used for most games, making it easy to keep track of spending.
Arcades are a great choice for family fun, providing a variety of games that can keep everyone engaged for hours.
8. Bounce Around at a Trampoline Park
Trampoline parks offer expansive spaces for kids to jump, flip, and play safely indoors.
- Locations: Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a popular choice in Las Vegas.
- Safety Guidelines: Many parks have separate jumping areas for different age groups, along with staff to ensure safety. Be sure to review the park’s safety rules and guidelines.
With trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts, trampoline parks are an excellent way for kids to expend energy indoors.
9. Enjoy Laser Tag Adventures
Laser tag is an exciting team activity that gets kids moving and thinking strategically.
- Best Laser Tag Arenas: Battle Blast Laser Tag is a top spot in Las Vegas, offering a large arena and multiple game modes.
- Group Size and Age Suitability: Laser tag is suitable for children around 6 and up, making it ideal for families or groups of kids.
Laser tag is both physically and mentally engaging, providing an immersive adventure in a controlled setting.
10. Play Indoor Mini Golf
Indoor mini-golf courses in Las Vegas are often themed, making them a unique experience for the whole family.
- Recommended Course Off The Strip: The Rex Center offers a fun dinosaur-themed environment that adds an extra element of excitement.
- Age Range and Pricing: Mini golf is suitable for all ages, and pricing is usually affordable for families.
Mini golf is a low-stress, high-fun activity that encourages family bonding and friendly competition.
11. Try Indoor Rock Climbing
For families looking for a physical challenge, indoor rock climbing is a fantastic choice.
- Rock Climbing Gyms: Red Rock Climbing Center and The Refuge Climbing & Fitness offer facilities for beginners and seasoned climbers.
- Beginner-Friendly Options: Instructors are available for beginners, and safety gear is provided.
Rock climbing builds confidence and provides a sense of accomplishment for kids and parents alike.
As a Las Vegas local, you don’t have to let bad weather ruin your family’s plans. From exciting laser tag battles to educational outings at museums or libraries, the city offers plenty of indoor activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. These options not only help you beat the heat or stay dry but also give your kids opportunities to learn, play, and explore in creative and fun ways. Whether you’re trying something new, like indoor rock climbing, or revisiting a family favorite, these activities ensure that your children stay active and entertained no matter the weather.
So, the next time the skies turn gray or the thermometer hits triple digits, you’ll be ready with plenty of indoor adventures to keep the whole family happy.
FAQs
Q1: What indoor activities are available for toddlers in Las Vegas?
A1: Toddlers can enjoy indoor playgrounds like Kangamoo Indoor Playground and LOL Kids Club, as well as interactive exhibits at the Discovery Children’s Museum.
Q2: Are there any educational activities for kids indoors in Las Vegas?
A2: Yes, museums like the Las Vegas Natural History Museum and the Discovery Children’s Museum offer educational and interactive exhibits that engage children in learning.
Q3: Where can we find family-friendly shows in Las Vegas?
A3: Family-friendly shows such as the Mac King Comedy Magic Show and Cirque du Soleil’s “O” are great options for all ages.
Q4: What can we do indoors in Las Vegas on a rainy day?
A4: On a rainy day, families can visit museums, indoor playgrounds, arcades, or watch a family-friendly show. Animal exhibits like the Shark Reef Aquarium are also great choices.
Q5: Is there indoor ice skating in Las Vegas?
A5: Yes, the Las Vegas Ice Center offers indoor ice skating sessions, ideal for kids and families looking for a cool indoor activity.
Q6: What are some interactive activities for kids in Las Vegas?
A6: SeaQuest Las Vegas and trampoline parks like Sky Zone offer interactive and engaging activities for children of all ages.