Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel: A Classic Family-Friendly Stay on the Strip

Las Vegas is a city known for its bright lights, non-stop entertainment, and luxury hotels—but tucked away among the glitz and glamour lies a gem that has stood the test of time: the Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel. While it may not be as ultra-modern as some of the newer resorts on the Strip, Circus Circus holds a special place in the hearts of travelers looking for family fun, affordability, and nostalgic Vegas charm.

Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a budget-friendly vacation, or simply want to relive the old-school Vegas experience, Circus Circus offers a unique blend of entertainment, comfort, and value. From its world-famous indoor theme park to the live circus acts, this hotel proves that Vegas can be magical for visitors of all ages—not just the adults.

Let’s explore what makes Circus Circus such a popular choice, what you can expect during your stay, and why it remains a beloved destination decades after opening its doors.

A Brief History of Circus Circus Las Vegas

Opened in 1968, Circus Circus is one of the oldest operating hotels on the Las Vegas Strip. Designed with a big top circus theme, the hotel was built to be family-friendly at a time when Las Vegas was primarily catering to adults. The concept was groundbreaking: combine the thrills of a circus with the amenities of a hotel and casino, creating an experience unlike anything else in the city.

Over the years, Circus Circus expanded to include additional hotel towers, a sprawling casino, restaurants, and the iconic Adventuredome theme park. It has welcomed millions of guests and continues to be a go-to option for families and nostalgic travelers alike.

The Rooms: Simple, Spacious, and Comfortable

Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel offers over 3,700 rooms spread across multiple towers and buildings. Guests can choose from standard rooms in the Skyrise Tower, Manor Motor Lodge, and Casino Tower. While the rooms may not boast the glitz of newer resorts, they are clean, spacious, and equipped with essential amenities like flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and room service.

Some of the highlights of the accommodations include:

Affordable pricing: Circus Circus is known for offering some of the most budget-friendly room rates on the Strip, especially for larger families.

Family-sized rooms: Many rooms are spacious enough to accommodate families with kids comfortably.

Easy access to attractions: Depending on the tower, you’ll be close to either the casino, the circus arena, or the Adventuredome.

Entertainment for All Ages

One of the most unique features of Circus Circus is the entertainment—it’s built into the fabric of the hotel, and it’s designed with everyone in mind, not just high-rolling adults.

1. The Adventuredome Theme Park

The crown jewel of the hotel is undoubtedly the Adventuredome—a massive 5-acre indoor amusement park located under a pink glass dome. With rides for all ages, from mild kiddie coasters to adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience on the Strip.

Highlights include:

The Canyon Blaster, a double-loop roller coaster

Laser tag arenas

Mini golf

Arcade games

4D theaters and family rides

2. Live Circus Acts

True to its name, Circus Circus hosts free live circus acts daily at the Carnival Midway stage. Trapeze artists, acrobats, clowns, and jugglers perform right in the heart of the hotel, drawing big crowds and lots of smiles.

3. Carnival Midway

Surrounding the circus stage is the Carnival Midway—a vintage arcade filled with more than 200 classic and modern games. Kids (and nostalgic adults) can win tickets and redeem them for prizes.

Casino and Gaming

While Circus Circus is known for being family-friendly, it also offers plenty for adults who want to try their luck. The 123,928-square-foot casino features:

Slot machines

Table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps

A race and sportsbook

Low-stakes games ideal for beginners

It’s a more relaxed atmosphere compared to high-end casinos, making it a great place for casual gamblers or first-timers.

Dining Options

Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. You’ll find:

The Steak House: An award-winning restaurant known for its prime cuts and classic Vegas ambiance.

Circus Buffet: A family-friendly buffet offering a wide range of dishes at a great value.

Pizzeria & quick bites: From pizza and burgers to ice cream and snacks, there are plenty of casual options throughout the property.

Food court: Features popular chains for a quick and easy meal.

Amenities and Services

In addition to its entertainment and dining, Circus Circus offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay:

Pools: The resort features two outdoor pools and a splash pad area perfect for kids.

Fitness center: A basic gym for guests who want to stay active during their visit.

Free parking: One of the few hotels on the Strip to still offer free self-parking, which is a huge bonus.

Pet-friendly options: Certain rooms are pet-friendly for those traveling with furry companions.

Pros and Cons of Staying at Circus Circus

Like any hotel, Circus Circus has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pros:

Affordable rates

Great for families

Unique entertainment and circus acts

Convenient on-site dining

Free parking

Cons:

Older property with fewer modern luxuries

Farther north on the Strip (requires more walking or transportation)

Rooms can feel dated compared to newer hotels

Who Should Stay at Circus Circus?

Families with children: The attractions are unbeatable for young ones.

Budget-conscious travelers: One of the most affordable options on the Strip.

First-time visitors: Those looking for a fun and laid-back Vegas experience.

Nostalgia seekers: Guests who appreciate the retro charm and classic feel of old Las Vegas.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable, and family-friendly experience in Las Vegas, Circus Circus Las Vegas is a standout choice. While it may not have the opulence of the newer mega-resorts, it delivers in terms of value, entertainment, and personality. The hotel continues to attract families, casual travelers, and nostalgic guests who want to enjoy the whimsical side of Vegas without breaking the bank.