Las Vegas w/2 yr old
 

I am visiting my parents in Vegas in April with my pregnant wife and 2 1/2 yr old. What is good hotel with pools, zoos, and other kid attractions? Mandalay? Monte Carlo? Most friends say that even at Disneyland, their kids preferred the pool or other similar attraction, so I'll assume it'll be easier to stay at a hotel that offers the easiest access for the things we'll be doing most during the day. Also, any ideas on other area attractions? Zoos, nature walks, waterparks, ??? Thank you.

I think that you're going to find that a 2-1/2 year old is probably too young to get much enjoyment out of an expensive waterpark. A child is probably just as happy in a toddler pool at your hotel. Keep in mind that many of the colleges have their spring break in April, so you don't want to end up at a hotel pool surrounded by a bunch of drunk college coeds. I'd definitely stay clear of the Rio for that reason. <BR> <BR>M&M World might be a fun stop along the strip (located directly across from NY NY and next door to MGM) for a child.

If you're only in town to visit family, why not stay away from the strip altogether and avoid all the hassles....ever consider something like the Regency (used to be the Resort at Sumerlin, I think, built by Hyatt). I've looked at their website and read about it before but haven't seen it. Much quieter, still a nice resort. Anywhere around the strip will be a hassle with a 2.5 y/o and pregnant wife. Just a thought.

I agree that you may want to stay off of the strip. There are many nice places that offer a lot of amenities, but at a lower price. Plus, I know as a pregnant woman, I wouldn't want to be wandering back and forth through smoke-filled casinos to get to my car or to the pool area.

The Rainforest Cafe might be a fun place for lunch with a little one. There's one located at the MGM Grand. While at the MGM, make sure to wander over and see the free lion exhibit near the casino...great for a child. I also agree that a trip through M&M World might be fun...though it's an expensive place to buy candy. Buy a bag of m&m's at the grocery store before you go and hand them to your child after you leave...they'll never know that they weren't purchased there.

I agree with all the previous posters about NOT staying on the strip for this visit with a 2-1/2 and a pregnant wife. The hotel/casinos are HUGE so every time you leave your room it means getting out the stroller (or you CARRY), waiting for an elevator empty enough to accommodate all of you and all of your gear and a good long walk to see anything. <BR>Since your parents LIVE in Las Vegas, seems they could scout around for a motel (they ALL have swimming pools) nearer to them and can suggest better than most of us Vegas visitors outings for families such as yours. <BR>Perhaps your parents will babysit for an evening or two while you and your wife take in some adult entertainment.

The Monte Carlo doesn't seem as smoky as most of the casinos on the strip. But I'd agree with other posters and suggest that you look for a hotel off the strip.