When Olivia was younger we grabbed a stellar deal using that crazy Expedia promotion so it was under $40 for the five days of hotel + flights. Without enough time to find a babysitter for the toddler that wanted nothing to do with anyone except her mother, we brought her along for the ride - after all, she was still free.
While we were there we learned a few things about traveling with your kids, to somewhere that’s not considered to be one of the most kid friendly travel destinations. Here are some of the things you should know before you plan your trip to Vegas (and you’re going to bring along the kids).
Map Out Kid Friendly Destinations
There are lots of things that are kid-friendly to see like the Shark Reef at the Mandalay Bay, Lions at the MGM and for older kids, the Adventuredome at Circus Circus. As a toddler, she loved the fountains and bright colors around her. Find areas where you’re going to be able to let the kids out of the stroller and walk around, running off some of that energy.
Don’t Forget the Snacks
Avoid paying the overpriced costs of snacks while you’re on the strip and avoid the whines for snacks by bringing your own. Stash snacks like granola bars, toddler bars, cereal and easy to pack items in your suitcase so you can stash them in your day bag while you’re on the go. It’s going to make the day a lot easier.
Choose a Kid Friendly Hotel
Some hotels are considered to be more kid friendly than others. A little research can go a long way when it comes to finding out which are more kid friendly. The Four Seasons and Excalibure are ranked highest as being kid friendly. Call ahead and see if there are facilities for children, whether you’re going to be able to have access to playpens or portable cribs for sleeping and whether babysitting services are offered through the hotel. It’s going to make the trip that much easier.
Stay on the Strip
Stay on the strip. It’s going to make travel time easier and when you want to head back to the hotel for a mid afternoon rest, it’s going to be quicker. When we were traveling with a toddler, it seems that it goes downhill very, very quickly. Being able to get back to the room quickly for a fast nap helped to refresh everyone before dinner and heading out to explore a little more.
Go Compact, or Carry
We used the public transit system while we were there to travel up and down the strip and to visit the outlet malls for some shopping. It wasn’t always stroller friendly and despite the fact that we had a very compact stroller, there wasn’t always room. Bring along a compact stroller and a comfortable carrier to make sure you’re going to be able to go handsfree for part of the trip.
Travel with Friends
If we were going to Vegas again we would probably not bring the kids along again until they’re older. If we did decide to bring the kids (or couldn’t find a sitter) I would want to travel with another couple and childcare swap while we’re there, giving some quality kid-free time to shop and explore, or just relax.
