Las Vegas: Hitting the Family Fun Jackpot

Stratosphere Tower
The best overview of town can be had from this vantage point, some 1,150 feet above the Strip. And if the view isn't thrilling enough, there are several roller coasters at the top that will probably frighten all but the most fearless coaster connoisseurs. Don't bother taking preschoolers or kids who are afraid of heights--they'll probably be too scared to look anyway. There's a small charge. Rides cost extra and there are combination tickets offered. 2000 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas; (702) 380-7777; www.stratospherehotel.com/

M&M World
Kids who love the chocolate candy will probably want to see this museum/huge advertisement. A seven-minute film tells the tale of how Red the M&M found his M. Riveting stuff for 4- and 5-year-olds. In the Showcase Mall, 3785 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas; (800) 651-2437; (702) 736-7611; www.m-ms.com

Fountains of Bellagio
One of the best shows in Vegas is this $35-million water spectacle that plays--or should we say sprays?--in front of the opulent Bellagio resort. The musical accompaniment runs the gamut--from Sinatra to Pavarotti--but the spraying jets of water, all backlit by bright white lights, are guaranteed to enchant folks of all ages. Shows are every 30 minutes from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., more frequently after 8 p.m. 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas; (888) 744-7687.

Red Rock Canyon
Worlds away from the glare and blare of Vegas, but only 20 minutes by car, lies this almost-200,000-acre preserved desert vista of statuesque red-rock formations. Stop at the visitors' center, where kids can sign up to be Junior Rangers (to earn their badge and certificate, they have to complete a booklet answering questions on local wildlife). The park maintains 24 miles of trails, but the best one for kids is the 0.7-mile Children's Discovery Trail, located seven miles past the visitors' center at the turnoff for Willow Springs/Lost Creek. The trail starts in a low-lying valley and climbs up to a stand of trees with benches by a small creek. It's very easy to get lost here, so be sure everyone stays on the trail--and bring plenty of water. Located 15 miles west of Las Vegas via Charleston Blvd. on State Rd. 159; (702) 363-1921; http://www.sunsetcities.com/redrock.html