by Elizabeth Kelly

Created on: December 09, 2008   Last Updated: February 09, 2009

It's an indisputable fact: kids love excitement. You shouldn't be surprised, then, when the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas dazzles your children just as much as it does you. In fact, taking your family to the famous city can be like taking them on a whirlwind trip around the world. From the jungles of Africa to the canals of Venice, here are 10 fantastically fun things to do in Las Vegas with your children.

#1) Feel Like Charlie in the Chocolate Factory

M&Ms World (3785 S. Las Vegas Blvd. (702) 736-7611)

Small children will be dazzled by a place that seems like a chocolate wonderland, with four whole floors of visual stimulation. Located at the Showcase Mall, parents can reward their kids for being patient during a shopping excursion by ending it with a visit to a candy oasis. A highlight is the Rainbow Wall, covered with M&Ms in every color you can conceive (and maybe more). On the third floor is a wildly eclectic collection of M&Ms memorabilia, and the gift shop has unusual themed gifts from toys to purses made out of candy wrappers. It's a true gem for the very little ones, and did I mention it's free?

#2) Be Awed by Man's Creation

Hoover Dam (Vistor's Center: Hwy 93 at Lakeshore Rd. (702) 293-8906)

Even the most cynical of your older children will be humbled in the presence of 3.2 million cubic yards of concrete, one of the greatest triumphs of engineering in the world. Stop at the overlook site and see the view from 727 feet in the air. Make a day of it by taking a rafting trip in the Colorado River, where you can spy ancient petroglyphs in the rocks as you float by. Don't forget to stop at the Alan Bible Visitor's Center, where multimedia exhibits about the dam's construction will also provide a learning experience.

#3) Rub Elbows with the Rich and Famous

Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum (3377 Las Vegas Blvd. S #2001 (702) 862-7800)

Lots of attractions claim to have something for everyone, but in this case it is 100% true. Kids will love spotting eerily realistic lookalikes of their favorite stars (High School Musical's Zac Efron is a recent addition), and having their photo made. Adults will appreciate the heroes of the past, like JFK or John Wayne. Interactive exhibits allow for an even more realistic experience. Dad might like putting with Tiger Woods, while Mom dresses up to stand in as George Clooney's bride. You can also "audition" for American Idol in front of a frighteningly real Simon Cowell, who provides a critique. Don't forget the camera!

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