While Las Vegas may have a notorious reputation with a nickname to match, “Sin City” is incredibly kid-friendly. The city has diversified its entertainment and culture to include lots of family options, coming a long way from my previous visits over 10 years ago.
Vegas is the perfect city to escape, it is vibrant and exciting for all ages. There’s more to Vegas than just gambling and parties, here you can find upscale dining to impress the toughest food critic and talented artists that have perfected their skills in amazing shows. This is also my favorite city for people watching, there are people from all over the world having a great time together.
I have compiled a list of the three A’s: Accommodations, Adventures, and Appetite! If you have any questions about Las Vegas or our trip please send me an email!
Accommodations
There is not shortage of lodging in Las Vegas, but I have found a haven for families – the Green Valley Ranch Resort. Located just a few miles off the strip, Green Valley Ranch Resort transports you to a European beach oasis. It is elegant, gorgeous, comfortable, and luxury all wrapped into one. I truly was blown away at the amenities and aesthetics of this resort.
One of the most stunning features of the resort is it’s 8-acres “backyard” with a sand-bottom beach-entry pool. This pool is unlike anything I have ever seen, and was a favorite of my girls. Where else can you build sand castles and swim in the pool at the same time? There are also private cabanas and an adult-only pool, all with a personalized food-and-beverage service… try some of the hand-crafted cocktails!
Our room was luxurious, and as I write this I am wishing I could spend another night! We had a beautiful suite with a dining table, beautiful sectional pullout couch, a separate bedroom with a king size bed, and a beautiful large bathroom with soaking tub and walk in shower. Everything was modern and elegant. I think we had the best views in the resort, looking over the palm trees and pool with a view of the strip and the sun setting – perfection!
Another reason Green Valley Ranch is so family-friendly – they understand sometimes mom and dad need some time off! They have partnered with Kids Quest, offering entertainment and activities for an hourly fee while parents go have some fit or relaxation! Drop off the kiddos and get a massage at the spa on site – more info on that below!
Adventures
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil – We were so excited to take our girls to a show in Las Vegas, and KÀ was the perfect choice! There was action, comedy, martial arts, Ariel acrobats, and a moving stage that made your jaw drop. Vegas shows are not just for adults, our girls had the time of their lives watching this Cirque du Soleil show. They were inspired, shocked, and said it was the highlight of their trip! There was a lot of action in KÀ, something to look at and challenge the mind at every turn. I would highly recommend this or any other Cirque du Soleil shows.
Bellagio Fountain – You can’t go to Vegas without seeing the fountain at Bellagio. It is free and fun to watch for all ages. We were able to watch it a few different times, and I will say that I could probably sit there all day ha! Be sure to also go inside the Bellagio to check out their Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, it truly is a sight to behold and very impressive.
Flamingo Wildlife Habitat – Another free activity for the kiddos is the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at The Flamingo Hotel. It is relatively small but still fun to check out. Here you can see a variety of ducks, fish, turtles, and flamingos. Parking is free if you stay under an hour.
The Strip / Welcome to Las Vegas Sign – You never know what you will see on The Strip in Las Vegas. It is worth walking up and down at least once – though I will say it looks much better at night! Vegas is a city that is hard to compare, because there really is nowhere else like it and The Strip gives you a chance to dive right in! There is also the infamous Welcome To Las Vegas Sign – there will be a line at any time of day here. My advice – bypass the line and take your photo off to the side. You get the same sign… without the hour+ wait!
The Spa at Green Valley Ranch Resort – The most relaxing experience I’ve ever had in Vegas was my time at the spa at Green Valley Ranch Resort. From the moment you walk in, the music calms you and the smell of rosemary and eucalypus envelopes you into a zen mindset. The facilities are top notch with an attentive staff and welcoming atmosphere. You receive a glass of champagne at check in (or check out, you decision) and are lead to your locker where you get a pair of spa slippers and a robe. I highly recommend arriving at least an hour before your treatment time so you can enjoy the private pool, sauna, and hot tubs.
They have showers and bathrooms with full toiletries for literally anything you could need or want. People say it is all in the details, and yes – it truly is. Outside of the sauna are water bottles and wash clothes on ice – I mean… amazing! I had a beautiful massage that had me on the brink of sleeping… and truly did not want it to end. It was the best way to end our trip! Oh and side note – you get a goodie-bag at checkout… this was a first for me and I can’t wait tp use the products!
Appetite
Hank’s Fine Steaks – Green Valley Ranch Resort has an award-winning steakhouse where we had the pleasure of dining, Hank’s Fine Steaks. This is an upscale restaurant with unmatched service. The entire waitstaff is kind and welcoming, knowledgable with genuine smiles and conversation. If you like steak – get the filet, and if you are seeking seafood – my husband said the “scallops were the best he has ever had” (high praise for a scallop enthusiast). The lobster chowder was a favorite, as well as the Mac and cheese and ribeye cheeseburger. It was our anniversary and they surprised us with a wedding cake which made me tear up! Truthfully you cannot go wrong with anything ordered here. JUST GO!
Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews – If you are in the mood for a burger or just a fun atmosphere for a dining experience, Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews is the spot for you! This was by far one of the best burgers I have ever had, and our waiter was above and beyond. He stopped to chat with our girls, asking about their trip and favorite foods, it was so sweet. I would also recommend this spot for Sunday night football – there were fans everywhere cheering for their teams, the atmosphere was electric! The kids will love the atmosphere – there is a truck hanging from the ceiling and license plates from all over the country. Try the hot mama burger and the craft beer you can only find at their restaurants!
Dirt Dog – This is THE place for a hot dog on the Las Vegas Strip. I stopped here after a quick google search of where to eat nearby and I could not have been happier! There was a small line but they get orders our fast – this is considered street food and they know how to keep things moving! The beers were also buy one get one free so that doesn’t hurt! I got the house dog – and you better believe I am trying to recreate this!
Until next time…
well traveled child 
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