Las Vegas, NV

Glitz, Glamour, and Babysitters

Las Vegas may be the gambling capital of the U.S., but this booming desert resort now rivals Southern California and Orlando as one of the country's top family-friendly destinations. Why settle for just the Mouse when you can witness pirate ships sinking, watch volcanoes explode, and see wild tigers put on a show?

Millions of kids romp around The Strip as if it were the latest theme park. There are happy-face rides for the under-10 set and mind-boggling virtual reality games for older teens.

And if you're hungry for a show, the youngsters won't have to suffer through Wayne Newton. Such kid-appropriate acts as "O" by Cirque du Soleil at Bellagio or EFX starring Tommy Tune at the MGM Grand pack 'em in; all but a very few are PG-rated and many have been created with children in mind.

Another big plus for families: the price. There are a number of quality, low-cost entertainment options, such as King Tut's Tomb & Museum at Luxor. And with a little looking, you can find first-rate accommodations and restaurants for hungry and finicky family members at a bargain.