When we had kids, I thought our days of Las Vegas weekends were in the past. That was before my brother-in-law decided to get married by Elvis. This was the perfect excuse to head to Sin City, kids and all.

We packed our three kids in the car for the four day drive. (I find travelling by car with the family more adventurous and enjoyable then flying, but that’s another story).

Many of you might be thinking that Las Vegas isn’t a place to go with kids. It’s true we couldn’t visit the casinos or attend late night shows, but we found plenty to entertain us all.

The themed hotels made the kids feel as if they were walking through some of their favourite books. In just a few blocks we were able to visit a medieval castle, walk through the streets of New York City and cheer for pirates in battle.

Buffets were everywhere, making eating one of the easiest things to do in Vegas. Buffets offered a great selection for the kids, even for our pickiest eater. Plus with many buffets offering free dining to kids under three and discounts to older kids, a night of noshing wasn’t that expensive.

For a little entertainment to go with our meal, we checked out the Excalibur’s Tournament of Kings. We enjoyed an evening of jousting and knights with a feast fit for a king.

Not everything in Vegas cost us money. We were able to enjoy many free shows along the strip:  the Ballagio Fountains, an amazing water, light and music show; the erupting volcano at the Mirage; a little safari in the MGM Lion Habitat. 

Of course no vacation would be complete without a little shopping. A visit to M and M World, with its four floors of the colourful candy and merchandise, put us in sugar heaven.

Although we spent most of our trip on the strip, we were glad we ventured down to Freemont Street to see the amazing Freemont Street Experience light and sound show.

Even visiting Vegas with the family, I was still able to get my craps fix while my husband watched the kids after they went to bed. And although it may not be a regular family stop for us, the Las Vegas trip was a great experience, enjoyed by everyone.

 

With a background in advertising, Carrie Anne left the agency life to spend more time with her three energetic and active kids (age 6, 4, & 21 months). At home in Toronto she works for advertising agencies testing their Client’s online communications; a cool job, according to her kids, especially when games are involved.

Carrie Anne volunteers at her children’s school and when time allows she works on her children’s story ideas in the hopes of some day seeing one of them published. She is very fortunate to have a deliciously, wonderful hubby that supports and understands her and gives amazing back rubs.