Planning a trip to Laughlin with the whole family? Whether you’re looking for activities for the kids or bonding experiences everyone will enjoy, this riverside destination offers plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor adventures to kid-friendly dining, here’s how to make the most of your family getaway.
Friendly Competition and Games for Everyone
Whether it’s a few rounds of your favorite games or challenging each other to an air-hockey match, an afternoon at the arcade or bowling alley is a great way to spend some quality family time. If your family enjoys a bit of retro gaming, Tropicana Laughlin's arcade has a wide variety of classic games like Pac-Man, air hockey and modern favorites—plus, it’s open 24 hours so you can fit in a game anytime!
Boasting over 60 state-of-the-art machines, the arcade at Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino is an exciting place for families to indulge in a variety of games. Play anything from retro classics to the latest releases, then redeem points for prizes from the prize counter or the automated prize hub. The arcade at Laughlin River Lodge Hotel & Casino keeps the fun going late—open until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Take on Donkey-Kong, battle it out in Street Fighter or test pinball skills for nonstop excitement.
For some timeless family fun, the bowling alley is the place to be. Riverside Lanes Bowling inside Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino is a 34-lane, state-of-the-art bowling center that has something for everyone, with snack bars, pro shops and bumpers for new bowlers. On Friday and Saturday evenings, try out Cosmic Bowling where the lights go down, the music cranks up and the lanes come alive with a neon glow. Enjoy bowling at the new 10-lane alley at Strike Bowl! inside Laughlin River Lodge Hotel & Casino. After some friendly competition, everyone can enjoy a meal at the 50s diner, offering a variety of old-fashioned favorites and tasty treats.
All-ages Entertainment and Outdoor Adventures
Whether you want to catch a movie, explore classic cars or discover ancient petroglyphs, there are so many family-fun places in Laughlin.
For a laid-back afternoon or evening, Riverside Cinemas in Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino provides a comfortable and entertaining movie-going experience with six renovated theaters featuring reclining seats and Dolby Digital surround sound. Plus, the on-site bar and food menu make it easy to turn movie night into a full outing. Also at the resort, be sure to take a step back in time at Don Laughlin's Classic Car Museums, where the whole family can marvel at vintage automobiles and appreciate the rich history behind each model. Even better, the first-floor exhibit is free to explore.
Get outdoors at Grapevine Canyon, with its unique combination of history and natural beauty. As you hike through the canyon, you’ll come across ancient petroglyphs that provide a glimpse into the past. The surrounding Mojave Desert landscape adds to the experience, making it a great educational and scenic outing.
For a relaxing way to take in Laughlin’s natural beauty—and for little ones to burn some energy—a stroll along the Laughlin Riverwalk is a must. Following the Colorado River, this peaceful path provides stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, making it a charming way to unwind after a busy day of exploring. For more outdoor adventure on foot, stroll through Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trails. At the north end of the trails, Pyramid Canyon features a splash pad, fishing piers, and a grassy areas for relaxation. The trail connects with Bullhead City, Arizona, on the other side of Davis Dam and through Davis Camp for a 13-mile trek.
Water Fun for the Whole Family
From the Colorado River to resort pools, Laughlin offers plenty of ways to cool off and enjoy the water. Rocky River Adventure Center provides personal watercraft rentals and guided tours along the Colorado River, providing an exciting excursion for drivers ages 18 and up with a license and passengers of any age (life jackets for any size are included). There are breathtaking views of Topock Gorge, volcanic rock formations and ancient petroglyphs. If you prefer a more leisurely outing, take the kids for a fun family ride on a water taxi.
For a beachside experience, the beach at Laughlin River Lodge Hotel & Casino has sandy shores, games and relaxing riverfront views, while the tropical oasis at Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino lets families enjoy jet skiing along with sun-soaked relaxation.
If pools are more your style, Golden Nugget Laughlin and Edgewater Casino Resort both offer a refreshing swim and comfortable lounging areas, with cabana rentals available for a cozy home base.
Ways for Everyone to Play Around Laughlin
Bullhead City, Arizona, offers some excellent ways for families to spend a day, and it’s just across the Colorado River—a short 15-minute drive via the Laughlin Bridge. For a day packed with outdoor fun, head to Bullhead Community Park. The kids will love the brand-new splash pad, and the park also features nearly a mile of sandy beach front and picnic ramadas. Explore the Colorado River Museum and enjoy a meal at the Bullhead Belle restaurant, which sits on a decommissioned riverboat.
Also in Bullhead City, Scooter’s Family Fun Center offers thrills for all ages. Putt your way through two exciting 18-hole mini-golf courses with waterfalls and sand traps, or step up to the plate at one of eight batting cages. Got an adrenaline junky, or a few, in the family? Younger racers can zoom around the kids’ track, while taller thrill-seekers take on the Indy Racing track. After all that action, refuel with a freshly made pizza at the on-site parlor.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants: Family Feasts & Tasty Treats
Laughlin delivers a variety of family-friendly dining spots to satisfy every craving. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. at Golden Nugget Laughlin Hotel & Casino brings the fun with its “Forrest Gump”-themed atmosphere and a kids’ menu featuring mini corn dogs, BBQ ribs and kid-sized pizzas.
For a hearty meal, Saltgrass Steak House inside Golden Nugget Laughlin serves up family packs with BBQ ribs, shrimp and chicken tenders, making it easy to share a delicious feast.
Start the morning on a sweet note or grab a late-night snack at Pinkbox Doughnuts inside Edgewater Casino Resort, with over 70 varieties of doughnuts along with a full coffee menu.
Make catering to the whole group simple at Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino. Find everything you’re hungry for in one place at the Riverside Buffet. Choose from a variety of brunch and dinner favorites and enjoy amazing views of the Colorado River while you eat.
Whether you're splashing in the Colorado River, stepping back in time at a classic car museum or indulging in sweet treats, there’s no shortage of things to do in Laughlin with kids. Add more history and culture to your trip by checking out Laughlin’s rich heritage and local attractions. And for even more tips for a memorable getaway, explore the Laughlin travel guide.
FAQs
What makes Laughlin a unique destination for families?
Laughlin’s riverside resorts provide for a variety of affordable water activities along the Colorado River. Along with watercraft rentals and water taxi rides, families can enjoy leisurely, scenic rides or dinner cruises aboard paddlewheel steamship replicas and tour boats, as well as fishing, water skiing and swimming. Also, Laughlin is only nine miles from Katherine Landing, a full-service marina with campground facilities.
Where can you buy gifts and souvenirs for the whole family?
Stop by This, That, and the Udder at Regency Laughlin for unique gifts, from handcrafted treasures to fun collectibles all at a competitive price range. For a wider selection, visit the General Store at Laughlin River Lodge Hotel & Casino, where you’ll find everything from snacks and apparel to keepsakes for the whole family. Many resorts in the destination also have gift shops for souvenirs and sundries. So, whether you want a quirky memento or a classic souvenir, Laughlin has something special for everyone!
What are some other family experiences and attractions in Laughlin?
For spectacular views of the Colorado River and Lake Mohave, the Southwestern desert, and tranquil Lake Havasu, take a Laughlin helicopter tour. Your family will love gazing upon the gorgeous landscape, whether it’s the Laughlin shoreline; the historic ghost town of Oatman, Arizona, and the Black Mountains; or the charming London Bridge in Lake Havasu City. You can also rent a houseboat, let the kids splash around at Laughlin Aquatic Center, or explore mysterious labyrinths.
When is the best time of year for families to visit?
No time is a bad time for a family getaway to Laughlin, but the holiday season is always filled with festive seasonal displays and themed entertainment. The annual Rockets Over the River fireworks display during July 4 weekend is free and visible from any Laughlin hotel and the riverwalk. It’s heralded as one of the best celebrations in the West. Also, the spring and summer months are best for enjoying outdoor attractions and water activities.
What are the best ways for the adults to unwind and relax?
Looking to recharge after a day of fun with the kids? How about a round of golf on one of Laughlin’s championship courses, or an invigorating luxury spa treatment? Immerse yourself in breathtaking views from tee to green, or indulge in signature massages, facials and other wellness packages at either Jean Jeffrey The Salon & Day Spa at Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino or The Spa at Laughlin Ranch.
What other budget-friendly family restaurants are in Laughlin?
Feed the entire family inexpensively with personalized pizzas at Pin-Up Pizza inside Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino. You can ask for slices to be cut in half and shared, and don’t forget the made-to-order cannolis! In the same resort, Smashburger has fresh burgers, fries, crispy chicken sandwiches and delicious milkshakes, all at affordable prices.
Are there day trips within reach that kids will enjoy?
Yes! Take the kids on a ride with Desert Wonder Adventures and visit Oatman, Arizona, on historic Route 66. Explore a ghost town with an old Western feel, and you’re almost sure to encounter a burro or two roaming the street. You can also ride to the Grand Canyon West Rim Skywalk, or see exotic animals at the Nature Park.
