For decades, Las Vegas has been called the gambling capital of the world. But today, “Sin City” is also known for its unique attractions for families. Kids of all ages can enjoy viewing hundreds of sharks and stingrays up-close to joining a team of detectives on a mock crime scene investigation – all at a reasonable cost:
M&M’s World – The original M&M’s World is located in Las Vegas and features four floors of M&M’s candy, collectibles, apparel and a “rainbow wall” with 22 different colors of M&Ms. Visitors often utilize the store’s popular interactive “Personalized Printer” to print names, a special message, or one of 14 Las Vegas icons, including the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign. M&M’s World is open daily – visit M&M World website for store hours and additional information.
The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay – The green sea turtle, Komodo dragon, and giant Pacific octopus are three of the 2,000-plus animals currently swimming in the waters at Mandalay Bay resort. Open daily, the museum boasts a Touch Pool with revolving animals such as sharks, rays or horseshoe crabs. For visitors curious to experience a 360-degree view of the deep sea, the museum features a 1.3 million-gallon shipwreck tank exhibit teeming with sharks and other sea animals. The cost of admission for adults is $18, but children (ages 5-12) are $12 and children 4 or younger are free. For more information visit the Shark Reef Aquarium website.
The Tournament of Kings at the Excalibur – Located inside the Excalibur Hotel-Casino, the Tournament of Kings features knights in armor, sword fighting, galloping horses, jousting and fiery explosions. A true medieval experience, visitors can enjoy the entertainment while using their fingers to eat a delicious dinner of roasted seasoned Cornish game hen, red bliss potatoes and steamed broccoli. Tickets are $59 (dinner included) and reservations can be made in advance by visiting Excalibur’s website.
Mob Museum – The Mob Museum, officially named the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, features detailed accounts of Las Vegas’ organized crime history as a part of more than 600 artifacts, interactive exhibits and theater presentations. Visitors learn about both the long history of organized crime in the U.S. as well as the law enforcement that vowed to stop it. For admission information and a list of exhibits, visit the Mob Museum website.
CSI: The Experience – CSI: The Experience invites visitors to become detectives and solve a big crime case. First, “detectives” are briefed on the case and guided through multiple mock crime scenes. Then, fingerprints are analyzed at the lab and a report is made to CSI’s own virtual Gil Grissom. CSI: The Experience is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and highly recommends that visitors purchase their tickets in advance to ensure entrance.
