Las Vegas. The City of Sin. Glittering lights, high-roller casinos, and extravagant shows… Not exactly the first place that springs to mind when planning a family vacation, right? But hold on!
Before you dismiss Vegas as an adults-only playground, let me tell you about our whirlwind December weekend in Vegas with our two kids, ages 2 and 8.
We discovered that Vegas in December offers a unique blend of holiday cheer and family-friendly fun. I’m excited to share our experiences and show you how to craft an unforgettable 2-day December itinerary that will delight kids and adults alike.
From holiday-themed displays to fascinating attractions that sparked my kids’ imaginations, we found moments of wonder around every corner. So buckle up and get ready to be surprised, because Vegas with kids is not only possible, it’s downright fantastic!
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Where We Stayed in Las Vegas
When it comes to family accommodations in Las Vegas, location and amenities are everything. After researching several options, we chose Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, and here’s why it turned out to be a perfect choice for our family of four.
Why Planet Hollywood Works for Families
- Central Strip Location: Perfectly positioned in the heart of the action, making it easy to explore nearby attractions on foot
- Connected to Miracle Mile Shops: This became a huge unexpected bonus! On our very first walk from the parking garage to check-in, we stumbled upon the Free Rain Show at the Miracle Mile shops – an incredible indoor display that had our kids mesmerized with its thunder, lightning, fog, and rain showers. The newly upgraded technology and light effects make it feel like you’re in the middle of a storm, especially when crossing the bridge. Best part? It’s completely free!
- Comfortable Rooms: Our room provided ample space for our family of four, with modern amenities that made our stay comfortable
- Family-Friendly Dining Options: Multiple restaurants within the hotel and connected mall mean you’ll never struggle to find kid-friendly meals
- Easy Parking Access: With young children, this might seem minor, but trust me, easy parking access makes a huge difference after a long day of exploring
Pro Tips for Staying at Planet Hollywood with Kids:
- The parking garage can be confusing – save the location of your car on your phone
- Consider rooms facing the Bellagio fountains for an extra special view
Other Family-Friendly Hotel Options
- Mandalay Bay: Features a fantastic pool complex with a lazy river
- Circus Circus Hotel & Casino: Offers The Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park with rides and games suitable for all ages.
- Luxor: The pyramid shape and Egyptian theme fascinate kids
- Excalibur: Medieval castle theme and arcade games
DAY 1: Lights, Camera, Action! Our Vegas Adventure Begins
We took an afternoon flight from San Francisco, which worked perfectly with our kids’ schedules.
Landing in Las Vegas around 2 PM gave us the perfect start to our adventure, allowing us to settle in while the desert sun was still high in the sky.
After resting for an hour, we had plenty of energy to explore the Strip as it came alive for the evening.
Miracle Mile Shops Rain Show
Our first surprise was the Free Rain Show at the Miracle Mile Shops, conveniently connected to our hotel.
This indoor spectacle features thunder, lightning, fog, and rain showers, creating an immersive experience that left our children wide-eyed with wonder.
The newly upgraded technology and light effects make it feel like you’re in the middle of a storm, especially when crossing the bridge. Best part? It’s completely free!
Bellagio Fountains: A Mesmerizing Water Symphony
After the captivating Rain Show, we ventured to the nearby Bellagio Hotel to witness the renowned Bellagio Fountains.
This iconic attraction features a choreographed water performance set to music and lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle that delighted our entire family.
Over 1,200 fountains dance across the 8.5-acre lake, with water soaring up to 460 feet in the air.
The December evening air was crisp, but watching those majestic fountains dance to “Carol of the Bells” while holding our children close made for an unforgettable holiday moment.
Dinner at Gordon Ramsay Burger
By this time, our little explorers were hungry, and Gordon Ramsay Burger at Planet Hollywood proved to be the perfect choice.
While the restaurant has a cool vibe that makes you feel like you’re somewhere special, it’s surprisingly kid-friendly.
Our 2-year-old happily munched on crispy chicken tenders, while our 8-year-old declared their classic burger “the best ever!”
Evening Stroll Down the Strip: Mirage Volcano and More
With full bellies and renewed energy, we embarked on a leisurely walk down the famous Las Vegas Strip. The December evening was cool but pleasant, and the holiday decorations transformed the already spectacular street into a winter wonderland.
Our 8-year-old was particularly mesmerized by the Eiffel Tower light show at Paris, Las Vegas. The illuminated displays and lively atmosphere captivated our children, making every step an adventure.
We paused to admire the Mirage Volcano, where fireballs and water eruptions created a thrilling spectacle.
The combination of dazzling lights, street performers, and the electric energy of the Strip made for an unforgettable family experience.
Continuing our stroll, we arrived at The LINQ Promenade, a vibrant outdoor shopping and entertainment district. The decorated Christmas tree and colorful fountains added a festive touch, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Our kids were in awe of the High Roller Observation Wheel, one of the main attractions at The LINQ. The Promenade features various restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, including the well-known In-N-Out Burger and Ghirardelli.
A highlight for our children was visiting I Love Sugar, the world’s largest candy store, spanning 14,000 square feet.
This two-story emporium felt like a sweet wonderland, offering an overwhelming selection of treats, including giant gummy bears, candy sushi, and a mesmerizing wall of candy.
The vibrant atmosphere, complete with a gummy bear chandelier, captivated our kids, making it a memorable stop on our Las Vegas adventure.
Recommended Tours in Las Vegas
Helicopter Tour
If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to see the Las Vegas Strip, consider taking a helicopter tour at night.
You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Strip, including the Luxor pyramid, MSG Sphere, and Bellagio fountains. Your pilot will also provide narration on the sights, so you can learn all about Las Vegas.
High Roller Observation Wheel
For another perspective of the Strip, take a ride on the High Roller Observation Wheel.
At 550 feet tall, it’s the tallest observation wheel in North America, and it offers stunning 360-degree views of the city.
You can choose from day or night rides, and there’s even a Happy Half Hour option that includes an open bar in your cabin.
Pro Parent Tips for Your First Evening
- Time the Bellagio Fountain shows right – they run every 30 minutes from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday; every 30 minutes from noon to 8:00 PM on weekends and holidays
- Bring a stroller for your little ones – those tiny legs will get tired quickly.
- Pack light jackets – December evenings in Vegas can be surprisingly chilly
- Choose restaurants connected to your hotel for the first night – everyone will be tired from traveling
- Don’t try to pack too much into your first evening – remember, you have another full day ahead!
Day 2: Family Activities in Las Vegas
After our exciting first day, we woke up ready for more family adventures.
Day 2 proved to be even more magical, combining local favorites with some of Vegas’s most spectacular attractions. Here’s how we spent our second day in this desert wonderland!
Breakfast at The Cracked Egg: Starting Our Day Right
We kicked off our morning at The Cracked Egg, a local breakfast spot that turned out to be a hidden gem. While Vegas is known for its buffets, this charming restaurant offered something special – the kind of warm, family-friendly atmosphere that puts everyone at ease.
Our 8-year-old couldn’t resist the chocolate chip pancakes (which were bigger than their face!), while our 2-year-old happily munched on perfectly scrambled eggs.
My husband and I enjoyed their famous omelets, giving us the energy we needed for our action-packed day ahead.
Pro Parent Tip: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the weekend rush. They offer crayons and coloring sheets to keep little ones entertained while waiting for food.
Bellagio Conservatory: A Winter Wonderland
The Bellagio Conservatory’s winter display became one of our trip’s highlights – and it’s completely free!
Walking in, we felt like we’d stepped into a fairy tale. The holiday decorations were spectacular, with towering Christmas trees, giant polar bears made of white carnations, and twinkling lights everywhere.
Our 2-year-old was particularly enchanted by the moving displays, while our 8-year-old loved spotting different types of flowers and taking photos for their school show-and-tell.
Lunch at Mon Ami Gabi: A Taste of Paris
After our underwater adventure, we headed to Paris Las Vegas for lunch at Mon Ami Gabi. This wasn’t just a meal – it was an experience! We scored a coveted patio table overlooking the Strip and the Bellagio Fountains.
The kids’ menu here is impressive, offering more than just the usual chicken fingers.
Shark Reef Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure
Next stop: Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium. This wasn’t just any aquarium – it’s a journey through an ancient temple that’s been overtaken by sea life.
The moment we walked in, our kids were mesmerized by the 1.3 million gallon shipwreck exhibit.
Our 2-year-old couldn’t take his eyes off the sea turtles gracefully gliding by, while our 8-year-old was fascinated by the touch pool where they could gently feel various sea creatures.
The highlight? Walking through the tunnel tank with sharks swimming overhead – our little ones were equal parts thrilled and awestruck!
Evening at Top of the World: Dinner in the Sky
For our grand finale, we rode to the top of The STRAT for dinner at Top of the World Restaurant. Watching the sun set over Vegas while our table slowly rotated 360 degrees was magical.
Our kids were absolutely spellbound by the changing views, and the staff went above and beyond to make them feel special.
Final Adventure: Exploring Themed Hotels
We ended our night with a leisurely explore through some of Vegas’s most spectacular themed hotels.
Our little ones, though tired from the day’s adventures, found their second wind as each hotel revealed its own magical world.
The Venetian: A Slice of Italy
Our first stop was The Venetian, and oh, what a sight it was! The indoor canals took on an ethereal quality, with the pink-hued palazzo walls reflecting in the perfectly still water.
Our 8-year-old gasped as a gondola glided by, its polished wood gleaming under the warm lighting that illuminated the gothic arches and ornate balconies above.
But the real showstopper came when we entered the Grand Colonnade.
The arched ceilings and polished floors create an ambiance that’s both regal and immersive, making it feel like a palace straight out of Italy.
The magnificent frescoed ceiling stretched endlessly above us, its Renaissance-inspired paintings and gold details creating a true masterpiece.
Every corner of The Venetian invites admiration, providing an unforgettable blend of Old-World beauty in the heart of Las Vegas.
Caesars Palace: A Timeless Roman Retreat in Las Vegas
After soaking in the holiday magic around the Las Vegas Strip, we found ourselves at one of the most iconic spots—Caesars Palace. The name evokes grandeur, elegance, and a touch of ancient Rome.
As we stepped inside, the grand entrance, decked out with holiday wreaths and ornaments, set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Everywhere we looked, from the intricate marble floors to the towering statues, there was something to inspire awe—even in the eyes of our youngest.
Just a short stroll inside, we reached the Trevi Fountain at Caesars Palace—a must-visit spot for families. This breathtaking replica of Rome’s original Trevi Fountain immediately captured our attention.
With water cascading over intricately carved marble statues, it felt like a piece of Rome had been transported to the Nevada desert.
Our kids were captivated. They clutched their coins, their eyes wide with excitement, ready to make their wishes.
Tossing a coin into the fountain became a magical moment, a blend of tradition and wonder that felt timeless.
We lingered for a while, letting the soothing sound of the water wash over us, grateful to share this special moment as a family.
Evening Exploration Tips:
- Use the indoor walkways when possible – December nights can be chilly
- Take breaks on the comfy lobby seats when little legs get tired
- Keep an eye out for free entertainment in hotel lobbies
- Don’t try to see everything – pick 2-3 hotels maximum
Travel Tips for Your Last Day
- Keep a flexible schedule – tired kids might need extra breaks
- Use the Monorail to avoid traffic between attractions
- Have a light jacket handy for temperature changes
- Bring a stroller – even if your little ones usually walk
- Take lots of photos – these memories are priceless!
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Travel Realizations
As our Vegas adventure came to a close, we left with memories that shimmered as brightly as the city lights.
Vegas may be known for its adult allure, but this whirlwind weekend reminded us that it holds a unique charm for families too.
The holiday displays, thrilling attractions, and immersive themed hotels wove a tapestry of wonder that kept our little ones engaged and enchanted every step of the way.
Whether it was watching the Bellagio Fountains dance or experiencing a dinner high above the city at The STRAT, we found that Las Vegas offers a world of magical moments for all ages.
So, if you’re hesitating to bring the kids along to the “City of Sin,” don’t let its nickname fool you.
With a little planning and a spirit of adventure, you’ll find that Vegas in December is a family-friendly wonderland ready to surprise and delight every member of your crew.
And speaking of spectacular, Las Vegas was just the beginning of our Southwest adventure. After our two cheerful days in the city of lights, we set off to explore nature’s own magnificent show: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona. But those are stories for another day…
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