Las Vegas NV: What About Laws Affecting Teens? Print

Q: When the school year ends, we’ll be traveling to Las Vegas with our grandteens, boy age 16 and girl age 14. We’re not sure of the local laws covering what they can or can’t do. Will you give us a quick review?

B. L. Crowden, Harrisburg PA

A: They call it Sin City because much of it is inappropriate for kids. However, in recent years there have been attempts to be kid friendly. For example, many Strip hotels have exhibits and rides that are more carnival than carnal, such as the roller coaster at New York New York and dancing fountains at Bellagio. All big hotels have kid game rooms with all kinds of electronic doodads.

The general rules are that kids are not allowed in casino areas except to walk through on the way to rooms and restaurants. Your grandkids are at the right age to be curious about the slot machines, so make sure they don’t linger and try their luck. Everyone is on constant camera surveillance, and guards can suddenly appear.

There’s a curfew for anyone under age 18, and kids must be off the streets from 10 pm to 5 am Sundays through Thursdays, and midnight to 5 am on Fridays, Saturdays and holidays. Dance clubs are off limits for all under age 21, as are all places that regularly serve liquor.

If you want to take your grandkids to a live show, check first about the kind of entertainment there will be. Some theaters have toned-down afternoon shows and stand-up comedy that may be appropriate for teens.

One important general rule is that you should keep your teens in sight or under the eyes of nearby security at all times throughout your stay in Las Vegas. Have a very enjoyable time!