Our family would like to go on vacation this summer, and we were thinking of Las Vegas. Our boys are 16 and 12, and we have heard it is more family-oriented now, but we weren't sure if there is enough to keep them happy. Of course, they love everything at Disney World and that is what we are looking for out there. Is it an expensive vacation? Can we use frequent flier miles?
Today, Las Vegas, land of neon lights, is the second most popular vacation spot in the country, right after--you guessed it--Disney World in Orlando. Last year the city drew nearly 30 million visitors, of all ages. We'd be willing to wager big bucks that your boys will love this place.
Here's a short list of not-to-be-missed attractions:
• Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage, where resides a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.
• Caesar's Magical Empire, a multi-chambered entertainment complex with performances by top magicians
• Fall of Atlantis and Festival Fountain shows at Caesar's Palace
• Live circus acts at Circus Circus Hotel
• The Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand Hotel
• Star Trek: The Experience at Las Vegas Hilton
• The Adventuredome at Circus Circus
• Guided tours through the Secret Garden of Siegfried & Roy at the Mirage
There are also erupting volcanoes, indoor rainforests, thousands of dancing waterfalls...and more, more, more. If the boys tire of the glitz--fat chance--you can visit Hoover Dam, hike in nearby canyons, or take a desert ecotour.
Late winter/early spring is the time to make your plane reservations for the summer. Call the airline's frequent flier number and see what's available. If you're flexible on dates and times, you may be able to snag frequent flier seats into Las Vegas. You should be able to keep expenses down once you're there. This is the land of the all-you-can-eat cheap buffets and many of the attractions, located in resort hotels, are free. Just stay away from those slot machines and gambling tables and you should be all set. For tourist information, call (702) 892-0711 or click here.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Originally published in April 2001. Updated April 2006.
