Let’s be honest: family vacations are a beautiful, chaotic mess. Between the “are we there yet” chants and the inevitable ice cream spill on a clean shirt, it can feel like a feat of strength just to get everyone in the same frame at once. But when you look back at those photos three years from now, you’re not going to remember the spilled gelato, you’re going to remember the smiles, the scenery, and that one time Dad actually figured out how to use the self-timer.
At Photoguides, we believe that traveling with the family shouldn’t just be about surviving the week; it should be about capturing the magic. Whether you’re a pro with a mirrorless setup or just a parent with a smartphone and a dream, choosing the right activities can make or break your photo album.
To kick off our 30-day blog series on the funnest family travel ideas, I’ve rounded up ten activities that are guaranteed to keep the kids entertained and your Instagram feed looking like a professional gallery. While we’re using the vibrant playground of Las Vegas as our inspiration today, these tips apply to any major city you might find yourself in.
1. Take a Spin on an Observation Wheel
There is something undeniably majestic about seeing a city from 550 feet in the air. In Las Vegas, that means the High Roller Observation Wheel. It’s basically a giant, air-conditioned glass pod that moves so slowly the kids won't even realize they’re high up until they see the cars look like LEGOs.
From a photography perspective, this is a goldmine. You get 30 minutes of 360-degree views, which is plenty of time to wait for the light to hit the mountains or the city lights to flicker on. If you’re heading there, you can [book your tickets ahead of time right here](https://www.viator.com/tours/Las-Vegas/The-High Roller-Observation-Wheel-at-The-LINQ/d684-5975LINQ?pid=P00038518&mcid=42383&medium=link) to skip the lines, because no one wants to wait in a queue with a toddler who just realized they left their favorite toy in the hotel room.
2. Wander Through a Botanical Garden
If you want vibrant colors without having to chase your kids through a crowded museum, a botanical garden is your best friend. The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a prime example. They change the theme every season, transforming thousands of flowers into giant polar bears, dragons, or hot air balloons.
The soft, diffused light from the glass ceilings is incredibly flattering for portraits. Pro tip: Wear solid, neutral colors so you don’t clash with the blooming scenery. For more tips on what to pack for these kinds of shots, check out our guide to essential photography gear. It’ll save you from carrying three lenses you don't actually need.
3. Strike a Pose at an Iconic Landmark
Every city has "The Spot." In Vegas, it’s the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign. In Paris, it’s the Eiffel Tower. In your hometown, it might be that weirdly large statue of a cow. Regardless, these landmarks are iconic for a reason.
The trick to a great family photo at a landmark is timing. Get there early. Like, "the sun isn't fully up yet" early. Not only do you beat the crowds, but the "Golden Hour" light will make everyone look like they’ve had eight hours of sleep (even if the baby had other plans). If you’re looking for a new camera to capture these memories with more detail than your phone can offer, take a peek at the camera reviews for 2024.
4. Escape to the Great Outdoors
Sometimes the best photos happen when there isn't a building in sight. Locations like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire offer dramatic red sandstone backdrops that make any family photo look epic.
The scale of nature provides a sense of wonder that kids naturally gravitate toward. Candid shots of them climbing rocks or looking out over a vista are often much better than the "smile and look at the camera" ones. If you're a fan of landscape photography, you might enjoy seeing some of the high-end prints over at Edin Fine Art: it’s great inspiration for how to frame those big sky shots.
5. Dive into an Underwater World
Aquariums like the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay are a sensory delight for kids and a technical challenge for photographers. The blue-hued lighting and moving fish create a dreamlike atmosphere.
To get the best shots here, you’ll need to understand low-light settings. Turn off your flash (it’ll just reflect off the glass and scare the fish) and get your lens as close to the tank as possible. For a deeper dive into mastering these tricky conditions, the community over at Shut Your Aperture has some fantastic gear tips for low-light environments.
6. Find a Mountain Retreat
If you're traveling in the summer and the heat is getting to the kids, head for the hills. Mount Charleston is a perfect example of how a 45-minute drive can change your scenery from desert to alpine forest.
The green trees and cooler air usually mean happier kids and more relaxed photos. It’s also a great place to practice your "lifestyle" photography: capturing the family just being a family. If you want to learn more about the art of storytelling through your lens, our educational category is packed with tutorials.
7. Immerse Yourself in Interactive Art
The modern "museum" is often an interactive playground. Places like Omega Mart are surreal, neon-soaked environments designed for the camera. These spots are fantastic for teenagers who want something "cool" for their social media, but they’re also visually stimulating for younger kids.
The neon lights provide a built-in color palette that is incredibly fun to edit. If you find your sky shots or outdoor photos aren't quite popping as much as your neon ones, you can always download some sky overlays to give your vacation photos that extra "wow" factor.
8. Visit a Cultural or Nature Preserve
Places like the Springs Preserve offer a mix of botanical gardens, nature trails, and history. It’s a slower pace of life that allows for more thoughtful photography.
I love these locations for "layered" photos: using desert plants in the foreground to frame the family in the background. It adds depth and professional polish to your shots. While you're at it, why not check out some cheap weekend getaways that might have similar hidden gems?
9. Catch a Thrill (and the Action Shot)
Theme parks and attractions like the Big Apple Coaster are high-energy environments. While you probably shouldn't be holding a DSLR on a roller coaster (RIP to that lens), the areas surrounding these rides are great for "action" photography.
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of the cars as they fly by, or use a slower shutter speed to create a motion blur that conveys the speed. It’s a fun way to liven up your trip gallery. For more on capturing those high-octane moments, Edin’s personal blog at Edin Chavez Blog often covers adventure travel photography.
10. End the Night with a Show
Nothing says "vacation" like a grand finale. The Fountains of Bellagio are a classic for a reason. The combination of music, light, and water is a visual feast.
Night photography can be intimidating, but with modern sensors, it’s easier than ever. Find a spot where you can see the reflection of the water in the kids' eyes for a truly sentimental shot. If you want a professional to handle the heavy lifting for a special family event, you might even consider booking an Atlanta event photographer if your travels take you toward the East Coast.
A Final Reassuring Word
At the end of the day, remember that the "perfect" photo isn't the one where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling perfectly. The perfect photo is the one that brings back the feeling of the sun on your skin, the sound of your daughter's laughter, and the shared excitement of a new adventure.
Travel is about connection. Photography is just the tool we use to keep those connections alive long after we’ve unpacked our suitcases. So, grab your camera, book a fun activity, and don't forget to get in front of the lens every once in a while too. You were there, after all!
For more inspiration on where to go and what to eat, check out our reviews on restaurants in downtown Golden or maybe find the best breakfast places in Cape Coral for your next morning out. Happy shooting!
