Outdoors – Stay Weird Las Vegas

Last Updated 09/10/24 When you think of Las Vegas, you probably picture flashing lights, casinos, and wild nightlife—not exactly family-friendly, right? But here’s the surprise: Sin City has a ton of awesome spots that are perfect for kids, and they’re not on the Strip. Whether you’re a local looking for new weekend plans or a family visiting from out of town, there’s way more to Vegas than blackjack and buffets. From outdoor adventures to quirky museums, we’ve rounded up 13 must-visit spots in Las Vegas that your whole family will love. These hidden gems offer something for everyone, whether you’re into animals, history, or just want a place for the kids to run around and burn off energy. Plus, many of them won’t break the bank, which is always a win in a city known for its pricey attractions. So pack some sunscreen, grab the kids, and get ready to explore a side of Vegas you didn’t know existed—family fun beyond the Strip! Still not sure Las Vegas is for your family? Check out our article Is Las Vegas OK For Families?… Tons of Families Think So. 1. Area 15 Location: 3215 S Rancho Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89102 Hours: Sun - Thu 11am - 11pm, Fri & Sat 11am - 1am Area 15 is not your typical family outing—it’s a mind-bending, immersive experience that’s part art gallery, part amusement park, and all-around awesome. This place is like stepping into another dimension, with something cool lurking around every corner. You’ll find a mix of interactive exhibits, VR experiences, and larger-than-life art installations that are guaranteed to keep both kids and adults entertained for hours. It’s the kind of place where you can let your imagination run wild, whether you’re exploring Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart or getting lost in the surreal world of Wink World. But don’t worry, it’s not just for thrill-seekers. There’s also plenty of laid-back fun, like axe throwing and arcade games, and even a few spots to grab a bite or a drink. It’s perfect for families who want to do something a little different—something that’ll have everyone talking about it long after you leave. The best part? You don’t need to worry about the usual Vegas craziness here. Area 15 is family-friendly through and through, offering a safe, controlled environment where you can let loose and enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure. If you’re looking for a break from the norm, Area 15 is where you want to be. 2. Cowabunga Bay & Cowabunga Canyon Water Parks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6IBZk5stMI Location: 900 Galleria Dr, Henderson, NV 89011, 7055 S Fort Apache Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89148 Hours: Changes seasonally, check their website for current hoursCowabunga Bay and Cowabunga Canyon are the ultimate splash of fun for families looking to beat the Vegas heat. I'm sure your hotel has a pool, but it doesn't even compare to these water parks. Both are just a short drive from the Strip and you’ll find everything from heart-pounding water slides to chill lazy rivers. With over 20 attractions, including the massive wave pool and kid-friendly areas like the Surf-A-Rama Wave Pool, there’s something for every age and thrill level. The park’s retro surf theme gives off major beach vibes, so it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of the desert. It’s not just about the slides—they have plenty of shaded areas, cabanas for rent, and tasty snack spots to keep you fueled for more fun. Just don’t forget the sunscreen—Vegas sun is no joke! 3. Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden Location: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV 89014 Hours: Everyday 10am - 6pm The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a delight for chocolate lovers, but there is more there than just chocolate. Like all chocolate factories I've been to, so far just one, there is a cactus garden outside the factory for visitors to walk through. In the factory you are greeted by the enticing aroma of chocolate and can watch skilled chocolatiers at work through large glass windows. They don't just tease you by showing you their chocolate, they give you a free sample of their delectable creations, allowing guests to savor one of a variety of chocolates. After the tour, you have to walk through the serene beauty of the botanical cactus garden, which showcases a stunning array of desert plants. For me the cactus garden is why I go to Ethel M's. This unique combination of indulgent treats and natural beauty makes the Ethel M Chocolate Factory a must-visit destination. If you visit during the Christmas season the Cactus Garden is decorated with lights like Clark Griswold's house. 4. Wetlands Park Location: 7050 Wetlands Park Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89122 Hours: The park is open from dawn to dusk everyday. The Nature Center is open Tues - Sun 9am - 3pm. The last thing you expect in the desert is a lush, green park with ponds and wildlife. This expansive natural preserve spans over 2,900 acres and offers a diverse array of activities for nature lovers of all ages. The park features numerous trails suitable for walking, biking, and bird-watching, allowing families to explore the beautiful wetlands and observe local wildlife, including birds, turtles, and lizards. The Nature Center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that are both fun and informative for children. Scenic picnic spots and shaded areas offer a perfect setting for a family picnic. The park's tranquil environment and lush landscapes provide a refreshing outdoor adventure. Whether you're hiking the trails, learning about the ecosystem, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings it's a literal oasis in the desert. Visiting the Wetlands is one of our favorite free things to do in Las Vegas. We've taken several pictures for our Christmas cards at the Wetlands. For other free, family friendly, activities see our article 13 Free Things To Do In Las Vegas For Families. 5. Lion Habitat Ranch Location: 382 Bruner Ave, Henderson, NV 89044 Hours: Mon 10am - 1pm, Tues & Wed closed, Thu - Sun 10am - 1pm If you’re looking for something wild to do with the family away from the Strip, the Lion Habitat Ranch is where it’s at. Located just 15 minutes south of the Strip, this place is home to more than 30 majestic lions, and trust me, seeing them up close is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The ranch is all about conservation and education, so while you're having a blast, you're also learning about these incredible animals. It’s a break from the neon lights, offering a raw, natural experience that’s both fun and unforgettable. Just don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every roar! 6. Red Rock Location: Mountain Springs, NV 89161 - West of Las Vegas - 20 to 30 minutes from the Strip Hours: Everyday 8am - 5pm So Red Rock is technically just outside Las Vegas, but by like 2 feet. So we're including it. Red Rock is a National Conservation Area west of Las Vegas with hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, rock climbing, and a 13 mile scenic drive. Red Rock has over 2 million visitors a year. There are several good reasons why. 1) It’s a very short drive from one of the most visited destination cities. 2) It’s absolutely gorgeous. The geography is stunning and otherworldly. It is so different from the rest of the Las Vegas valley. 3) You can climb on rocks. Climbing on rocks is awesome. Stop at the Visitor Center, it’s worth spending some time there before you get to the rock climbing. Like any exclusive club in Las Vegas, Red Rock is so busy you must have a reservation to enter, so get online before you go or you might not get in. If you already have a National Park pass you will only have to pay the $2 reservation fee. 7. Las Vegas Natural History Museum Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd N, Las Vegas, NV 89101 Hours: Everyday 9am - 4pm The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is an underrated gem in Las Vegas. We're surprised how few people know about this place. It's a must-visit destination for families looking to explore the wonders of the natural world. Located just north of the Las Vegas Strip, the museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. Visitors can journey back in time with the dinosaur gallery, where life-sized replicas bring prehistoric creatures to life. The marine life exhibit allows kids to discover the mysteries of the ocean, while the live animal exhibits feature reptiles and other creatures. The Treasures of Egypt exhibit has artifacts from King Tut's tomb. The museum also hosts special exhibits and educational programs throughout the year, making each visit unique. With its engaging displays and hands-on activities, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum provides a fun and educational experience that inspires curiosity and a love for nature. It's an ideal spot for families to beat the heat and spend a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. 8. Springs Preserve Location: 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89107 Hours: Thu - Mon 9am - 4pm, Tues & Wed closed The Springs Preserve is a vibrant destination perfect for families seeking a mix of education and outdoor fun. This 180-acre cultural and historical attraction features interactive exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking trails, and live animal shows that highlight the natural and cultural history of the Mojave Desert. Children will love exploring the Nature Exchange, where they can trade natural items they've found, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences in the Origen Museum. The Butterfly Habitat, open seasonally, allows families to observe and interact with various butterfly species. Families can enjoy the Preserve's beautiful landscapes through its scenic walking trails, which offer shaded rest areas and plenty of photo opportunities. With engaging programs and workshops available throughout the year, the Springs Preserve offers an enriching and affordable experience that both kids and adults will enjoy, making it a must-visit for those in Las Vegas. 9. Popstroke Location: 6617 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119 Hours: Everyday 9am - midnight PopStroke isn’t just another mini-golf spot—it’s where fun meets a serious game. Imagine Tiger Woods designing the course, and you’ll get the idea. This isn’t your typical windmills and clown noses; PopStroke brings two 18-hole putting courses that are more about skill than luck, making it perfect for both kids and grown-ups. The vibe? Laid-back but with a competitive edge, so you can show off your putting skills or just have a good laugh when you miss the hole by a mile. Beyond the greens, there’s a full-service restaurant and bar, because what’s a day out without some good food and drinks? They’ve also got an outdoor playground and games, so the fun doesn’t stop when you putt your last ball. One outstanding benefit about the price of admission, it is for the whole day. Play a round of putt putt, go back and swim at your hotel. Go play a round of putt putt, go to dinner and show, then back to play a round of putt putt. If you’re looking for a way to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank, PopStroke is the hole-in-one you’ve been searching for. 10. Sky Zone Trampoline Park https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNF-RNbupeA Location: 7440 Dean Martin Dr # 201, Las Vegas, NV 89139 & 7350 Prairie Falcon Rd #120, Las Vegas, NV 89128 Hours: Dean Martin location - Mon 10am - 9pm, Tues - Thu 2pm - 9pm, Fri 2pm - 10pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 10pm Prairie Falcon location - Sun - Thu 9am - 9pm, Fri & Sat 9am - 10pm Sky Zone Trampoline Park is the ultimate spot if your family needs to burn off some energy—and I mean serious energy. Imagine a massive indoor playground made entirely of trampolines where you can literally bounce off the walls. There’s dodgeball on trampolines, a foam pit for epic flips, and a slam dunk zone that'll make you feel like an NBA star for a minute. It’s perfect for kids, but don’t think adults can just sit on the sidelines. You’ll be jumping, laughing, and probably sweating alongside them. Heads up, though—this place can get busy, especially on weekends, so booking a time slot online is smart. And while Sky Zone isn’t going to break the bank, it’s not totally free either, so keep that in mind. But for a couple of hours of nonstop fun, it’s totally worth it. Bonus: You’ll probably all sleep like babies after! 11. Container Park Location: 707 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101 Hours: Mon - Thu 11:30am - 11pm, Fri 11am - 1am, Sat 10am - 1am, Sun 10am - 11pm Container Park is a unique, open-air shopping and entertainment venue located near Downtown Las Vegas. Constructed entirely from repurposed shipping containers, this innovative space features a mix of boutique shops, diverse dining options, and lively entertainment. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by a 35-foot-tall praying mantis sculpture that breathes fire at night, setting the tone for the park's creative vibe. The park includes a children's play area with a treehouse and interactive playground, making it family-friendly. Throughout the park, there's a strong emphasis on local art, with numerous installations and murals. Regular events, such as outdoor concerts and movie nights, add to the vibrant atmosphere. We've always found it a relaxing place that we can get some drinks while the kids run around. 12. Broadacres Marketplace https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIUB4teamfU&t=540s Location: 2930 Las Vegas Blvd N, North Las Vegas, NV 89030 Hours: Fri 4pm - 11pm, Sat & Sun 6am - 5pm If you’re looking for something off the beaten path in Vegas, Broadacres Flea Market is where you want to be. It’s a total treasure hunt—imagine over 1,100 vendors selling everything from vintage clothes to quirky knick-knacks and even fresh produce. And it’s not just shopping. There’s live music, food booths with everything from tacos to churros, and a family-friendly vibe that’s rare to find in Vegas. The Machete quesadillas are something you definitely should experience. You can easily spend a few hours wandering around, and yes, it can get a little crowded, but that’s all part of the experience. Pro tip: bring cash. While some vendors take cards, a lot still prefer good old-fashioned bills. Entrance fees are cheap—like under $5 cheap—so this is definitely one of those “budget-friendly but still fun” options. Just don’t expect to walk out empty-handed; with so much stuff to browse, you’re bound to find something cool (or at least a snack you didn’t know you needed). Plus, it’s outdoors, so you get to enjoy that Vegas sunshine while you shop. 13. Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqiLq_FZ3Bw Location: 8103 Racel Street, Las Vegas, NV 89131 Hours: Close Mon & Tues, Wed - Sun 9am - 2:30pm Looking for a peaceful family-friendly escape in Vegas? Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary is a hidden gem where kids (and adults) can connect with nature. Located away from the Strip's chaos, this sanctuary is home to rescued animals like parrots, peacocks, turtles, goats, and even a camel. It’s the perfect spot for little animal lovers who want to get up close to some friendly creatures. The sanctuary has a relaxed vibe, so it’s easy to enjoy a few hours wandering around, feeding the animals, and learning about conservation. Don’t expect a flashy zoo—this is a low-key, no-frills experience that’s all about the animals. Bring some water and sunscreen, because it can get hot! Some other honorable mentions just outside Las Vegas The rest of this list is in the city, but off the Strip. We felt like mentioning some awesome places just outside the city. And, I mean like 20 minutes outside the city. Your not really going that far. Some will take less time to get to than things inside the city. First up is Boulder City and all of the wonders it holds. Hoover Dam is awe inspiring and a feat of engineering you won't forget. Tom Devlin's Monster Museum is filled with movie monster props and memorabilia. You won't find anyplace else like it. Hemenway Park has a resident flock of big horn sheep that just lounge around near the humans. Great food, quaint shops, and tons of character make Boulder City a unique place to visit. Just outside of the city is a whole smorgasbord of outdoor activities. Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead Recreational Area, and Mt. Charleston both have enough rock climbing, hiking, swimming and water activities, and breathtaking views to keep the whole family busy. You should absolutely see the Strip and experience all the places and things you've seen in the movies, but there's a lot to Las Vegas off the Strip. You won't be disappointed taking some time to get away from the tourist corridor and visiting the rest of the city. For more inexpensive things for families around Las Vegas see our article 13 Cheap Things for Families To Do in Las Vegas under $30.