Las Vegas, often known as Sin City, has been named the hottest family-friendly destination in the US by CNN. Despite its reputation for adult entertainment, the city has seen a surge in younger visitors flocking to experience the family-friendly amenities and attractions it has to offer.
According to CNN Travel, Las Vegas has been recommended as the top destination for families due to its new attractions that incorporate technology and interactivity. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority reported that around 16% of visitors in 2023 traveled with someone aged 21 or younger, a significant increase compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic.
This surge in family visitors marks a shift in Las Vegas’ reputation, as it has previously attempted to draw in families in the 1990s with mixed success. However, this time around, the city seems to have hit the mark with its latest developments in interactive media, earning it the moniker of “Family-Friendly Vegas 2.0” by CNN.
The city’s attractions now cater to a younger audience, with innovative experiences such as the Live Sketchbook at the ARTE museum, where animal drawings come to life, and the Electric Playhouse, where families can play life-sized video games using their bodies as controllers. The Flyover ride, featuring a domed screen and elements like mist and wind, offers visitors a thrilling journey based on a short film. Additionally, the $2.3 billion Sphere has become an iconic landmark on the Las Vegas skyline.
In addition to these existing attractions, Las Vegas has several new developments in the works, including Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round horror attraction from NBCUniversal. Steve Hill, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, expressed optimism about the city’s appeal to younger visitors, noting that Las Vegas now offers a wide range of offerings that appeal to both adults and children.
Hill emphasized Las Vegas’ ability to evolve over time, highlighting how the city has transformed into a great destination for families. With a mix of traditional adult-oriented entertainment and new family-friendly attractions, Las Vegas has positioned itself as a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages.