Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, big crowds and non-stop action. While that’s the perfect recipe for some, for families traveling with a child with developmental disabilities or autism, it can create problems as children’s senses become overwhelmed or they get worn out by the constant activity. However, there are several shows, all located in hotels along The Strip, which will appeal to children who enjoy the way a show can communicate without resorting to words.
Jabbawockeez at Monte Carlo
The dance crew which once won the “America’s Got Talent” competition is able to fill a whole show without ever speaking a word. The words aren’t missed as Jabbawockeez (877-386-8224) perform thrilling dance moves to a variety of musical genres. Everyone in the crew wears an expressionless white mask, but comedy and a variety of emotions are expressed through movement. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays and 9:30 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. There are two shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays.
Blue Man Group at The Venetian
The Blue Man Group (800-BLUEMAN) is known for performing a variety of zany antics with a dizzying array of props - and all while not speaking. Ideas get expressed through facial expressions and body movements in ways that everyone can understand. Shows run nightly at 7 and 10 p.m., and there are often chances to meet the performers afterwards for families who want to schedule a visit.
Cirque du Soleil on The Strip
There are several different Cirque du Soleil shows playing up and down the strip. The one that may be the most family-friendly, or best show for those who haven’t yet had the pleasure of seeing a Cirque show, is probably Mystere at Treasure Island (800-392-1999), which plays at 7 and 9:30 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays. There are even specials children’s discounts on tickets. Mystere has survived nearly 20 years in Las Vegas by serving up a big top feel complete with clowns and a big baby that kids of all ages will find hilarious right along amazing feats of skill, athleticism, acrobatics and movement.
Titanic and Bodies Exhibitions at Luxor
Sometimes, children with developmental disabilities and autism can find the most enjoyment in a museum-type setting that is both quiet and relaxed. Two such settings are offered side-by-side at the Luxor (800-557-7428) in Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and Bodies...The Exhibition. Both exhibits run at the Luxor daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. There is a special ticket deal that allows guests to combine both exhibits with a third child-friendly attraction such as the Spongebob ride at Excalibur, the Roller Coaster at New York, New York, or the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay.
The Bodies exhibition is visually stunning and also very educational for those who are so inclined. History comes alive in the Titanic exhibit thanks to artifacts on display that were salvaged from the ill-fated ship. Another interesting feature is that guests are given the name of a person who was on the ship, along with some information about their life and what class they would have travelled in on the ship. At the end, guests get to find out the fate of their particular person.
Las Vegas can be an overwhelming place for children with developmental disabilities and autism, but it can also be a place where families can experience entertainment together that appeals to each member of the group.
Kathleen Curry - As a self-professed travel guru Kathleen Curry has spent many of her days and future retirement savings on travel. She has worked in the ...
Join the Conversation