Family Summer Fun in Las Vegas
Summer in Las Vegas is full of sunshine, vibrancy, and unforgettable experiences—far beyond the Strip. Whether you’re a local family or visiting for the season, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting summer memories together. From splashy aquariums and mountaintop hikes to outdoor concerts and local festivals, here are top picks for family-friendly summer activities in and around Las Vegas.
1. Explore the Deep Blue at Shark Reef Aquarium
Inside Mandalay Bay sits one of the city’s most awe-inspiring aquatic attractions. The Shark Reef Aquarium is home to over 2,000 creatures—including sharks, rays, piranhas, and turtles—in a million‑gallon tank. Perfect for a cooling indoor outing, this immersive experience blends education with entertainment.
Tip: Avoid crowds by arriving in the morning. After your visit, enjoy dinner at the nearby food court—great for families .
2. Camp & Hike in Nature
Swap the neon glow for starlight and fresh pine-scented air at Mount Charleston. Just a short drive away, this cool mountain escape offers family-friendly hiking, wildlife watching, and camping among towering aspens and Douglas firs. It’s the perfect retreat from the desert heat—just don’t forget the bug spray and marshmallows!
3. Splash Around at Lake Mead
For a classic summer day, head to Lake Mead. Whether you’re boating, swimming, or picnicking, the lake’s vast expanse provides plenty of space to get wet and unwind under the sun. Bring kayaks or paddleboards, or just relax and soak in the lakeside views with the kids.
4. Dance to the Beat at Free Outdoor Concerts
Las Vegas offers a wealth of open-air music. From “Downtown Rocks” at Fremont Street—featuring chart-toppers and local bands every summer—to Concert in the Park at Lorenzi Park every Tuesday night, families can enjoy music under the stars without spending a dime
5. Catch a Show Under the Stars at Super Summer Theatre
Head out to Spring Mountain Ranch State Park this summer for Super Summer Theatre—a beloved series of outdoor performances ranging from Shakespeare to musicals. Bring blankets, snacks, and the whole family for a magical evening beneath the sky.
6. Cruise Seasonal Night Markets
Las Vegas’s outdoor shopping hubs come alive with local crafts, food, and entertainment each summer. Check out night markets at Downtown Summerlin, The UnCommons in Southwest Vegas, and the artsy festivals downtown. These markets are full of vibrant music, street food, and creative surprises—great for wandering and sampling your way through the evening.
7. Cool Off at Hotel Pools & Rooftop Concerts
Sometimes the best way to beat the heat is by the pool—and Vegas hotels know how to do it right. Whether it’s a family-friendly splash zone or a rooftop bar featuring live music (like at Downtown Grand or Virgin's pool deck) , these venues mix sun, fun, and summer soundtracks in one spot.
8. Enjoy Downtown Summerlin’s Summer Events
Downtown Summerlin offers weekly events like fitness classes, live music, movie nights, and the annual Summerlin Festival of Arts. Its mix of open green spaces, playgrounds, casual dining, and water features makes it a perfect place for a family evening out.
9. See a Vegas Residency or Local Show
Las Vegas is known for its star-studded residencies, and summer 2025 has plenty of talent: Lenny Kravitz at Park MGM, Backstreet Boys at The Sphere, Dolly Parton at Caesars, and more. Many venues also host family-friendly shows, magic acts, comedy shows, and musicals—perfect for a memorable night out.
10. Discover Local Art, Museums & Parks
Beat the heat and get curious indoors at places like the Discovery Children’s Museum, Nevada State Museum, or Meadows Museum of Art. For outdoor art and exploration, ride bikes or roll along the River Mountains Loop Trail or take a scenic walk in Gilcrease Orchard and Vineyard, where you can sip, stroll, and enjoy local charm.
Planning Your Perfect Family Summer
Make it a staycation: Rent camp chairs, pack a picnic, and plan an evening at an outdoor concert or show.
Mix indoor and outdoor fun: Alternate pool days or aquarium visits with evenings at night markets or rooftop music.
Stay flexible & hydrate: Vegas heat is intense—bring water, pack plenty of snacks, and weather-check outdoor plans.
Capture memories: Bring a disposable camera or encourage kids to take snapshots of their summer adventures.
Summer in Vegas is more than pool-side lounging—it’s about discovering lakes, mountain trails, city arts, nature shows, and music under the sky. This year, create a season full of memories. From Shark Reef to Spring Mountain, your family’s adventure is just waiting to begin.
