Day 1: Start With Some Safe Bets
Whether it’s your first time in Vegas or you’re an experienced pro, you know the first place to hit once you land: the Strip. Start wandering to take in world-famous experiences, like the Bellagio fountains and High Roller Ferris Wheel. Even if you’re only window shopping, the Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace are a sight to behold. And if you’re looking out the right window, you’ll witness the latest Vegas innovation the whole world is talking about: The Sphere. Make sure you book a ticket in advance to catch a show at this one-of-a-kind venue.
Day 2: Time for Some Good, Clean Fun
Don’t let the connotations of Las Vegas sway you—there are tons of wholesome entertainment options. In fact, this destination has become one of the leading destinations for family fun since the 1990s. The options are practically endless, but here are some of the highlights:
- Explore an underwater world at the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the strip from the High Roller observation wheel.
- Experience a medieval-themed dinner and show at the Tournament of Kings.
- Ride go-karts, play arcade games, and more at the Mini Grand Prix Family Fun Center.
- Take in a Cirque du Soleil family-friendly show like "O" at the Bellagio.
- Get interactive and educational at the DISCOVERY Children's Museum.
Day 3: Go Old School
Fremont Street is where Vegas first made its mark. Blending classic Vegas charm with exciting new energy, this retro corridor offers countless reasons to visit and explore.
Step into the past at iconic casinos like Binion’s and the Golden Gate Hotel and Casino. Then walk out the door and look up with awe at the Fremont Street Experience, where the massive Viva Vision canopy dazzles with panoramic light shows. Take a stroll down memory lane at the Neon Museum, showcasing retired signs from Las Vegas casinos and businesses, or the Mob Museum, offering guests a glimpse into the links between the city’s early days and organized crime. Wrap up your day with a little shopping at the Downtown Container Park. This unique retail and entertainment venue is built from repurposed shipping containers and features shops, restaurants, bars, and more.
Day 4: Experience the “Dry Heat”
As much as The Strip has to offer, you really must get out and explore the desert to make your Vegas trip complete. Just outside the city, transport yourself to a whole new western world at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, or explore unparalleled scenes of nature on foot through a number of hikes for all experience levels at Rainbow Mountain Wilderness. Travel back in time at the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, where prehistoric creatures once roamed. For a nature-focused outing closer to town, Vegas also offers wonderful family-friendly experiences, such as discovering exotic birds and other animals at the Flamingo Wildlife Habitat or exploring botanical gardens, a desert tortoise habitat, and more at the Springs Preserve.
Or, if you want to trek a little further, you can also make a day trip out to see the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam.
Day 5: Say Goodbye in Style
Chances are, by now you’ve taken your tastebuds on a journey all over town, but if you haven’t been to The Buffet at Wynn Las Vegas, you should save the best for last and plan to fuel up for your trip home. If you have time, and you’re still hungry, have lunch at a classic spot like TAO at The Venetian.
On your way back to West Michigan, start planning your return trip to America’s playground. With nonstop routes heading to Las Vegas daily, it’s always a great time to head out west!
