Since it first emerged from the Nevada desert a century ago, Las Vegas has long been known as an adult playground. The theme, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”, is a not-so-subtle hint. It invites grown-ups to indulge in the naughty charms of aptly-named Sin City.

Las Vegas Welcomes Families: Today, there’s great emphasis on urging the entire family to enjoy the city’s many features beyond gambling. These five are very entertaining, and offer loads of fun to even the very young. Better yet, they’re all free! If you’re in Las Vegas with grandkids, consider these.

The Atlantis Show: 3570 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89109. A fun experience for all, and is conveniently located in the Roman Great Hall of Caesars Palace. It’s a fascinating sight and sound experience of the imaginary city of Atlantis. Visitors of all ages enjoy the fantastic visual and special effects, realistic sound, costumes and lifelike animatronics. Bellagio Fountains: This extravaganza of sky-high dancing waters, multi-colored lights and concert-like music should not be missed. As you stroll the Bellagio Resort sidewalk along Las Vegas Boulevard during the shows, you’ll hear music in sync with the fountains’ dancing waters from opera to classics to Broadway.  

Fountain performances are every 30 minutes from 3 pm to 7 pm on weekdays, and 12 noon to 7 pm on weekend days. For evening weekend strollers, the show is every 15 minutes from 7 pm to midnight.

Fremont Street Experience: A huge curved screen canopy looms 90 feet over more than five city blocks, displaying brilliantly-colored video and sound images. There are also live concerts and parades at street level. The shows are hourly nightly from 8 pm to midnight.

Circus Acts At Circus Circus: The vintage Strip hotel offers the world's largest permanent circus. For people of all ages who love old-fashioned trapeze acts, trained animals, clowns and acrobats, this free show is a great place to hang out together. There’s also the Carnival Midway, an old-fashioned row of games that test skills and offers stuffed toys to winners.

Conclusion: The city scene is always changing, and there are many other free activities for people of all ages to enjoy in Las Vegas. When your family checks into your hotel, get the latest information at the front desk.