Tips for Enjoying a Trip to Las Vegas with Your Teen

Las Vegas to some degree will always have the image of the "adult playground." But over the last two decades this desert mecca has made tremendous strides toward accommodating vacationers of all ages. Here are some great ways to enjoy a vacation to Vegas with your teenager.

Begin your teen-friendly Vegas vacation by discussing the matter with your teen. Any teenager expects a lot of input into things, and that's only fair. Don't just drop the vacation on her fully planned. Let her get into the fun of looking at the possibilities. Her excitement will only grow as she starts to add input. And that's all part of the joy of vacations - the anticipation. By including your teen in the planning process, you allow that anticipation to build.

Next, use the input from your teen to begin looking for the right resort to stay at. Although almost all hotels and resorts in Vegas have become more family friendly, they all have their unique style, specialty, and attractions. Use the many online resources to investigate the sorts of things each resort offers. This is a great place to include your teen - they'll probably welcome the assignment of such an important task as searching the internet for information on the trip.

Consider the sorts of things teens would like to do. For instance, if they like to shop, terrific stores can be found in the Showcase Mall adjacent to the MGM Grand. Likewise, if they're into fast-paced action, consider something like the roller coaster at New York New York.

Better yet, think about getting all-passes to Adventuredome at Circus Circus, a full-size, state-of-the-art theme park featuring a wide array of rides like Canyon Blaster, Chaos, Inverters, Rim Runner and Sling Shot.

Whatever you choose, don't forget that your teen will probably want some time for herself. And that's not necessarily a bad thing. This can give you time to hit the casinos, take in a show, or just lounge by the pool. Just be sure to coordinate your activities so you end up in the right place at the right time and your teen remains safe - Vegas's reputation is, after all, not just fictional lore. It isn't nicknamed "Sin City" for nothing.