Las Vegas: A Vacation for the Family

Las Vegas is a vacation city that has always been synonymous with adult entertainment and gambling. Most of the shows on the "strip" cater to adults and are, in most cases, definitely not for children. Magic shows, on the other hand, are generally a safe bet for children of all ages and contain less adult content.

Most children are completely fascinated by magic. When it comes to well known names in magic, David Copperfield is certainly on of the most recognized and high profile magicians and illusionists in the business. Children - and parents - will be captivated and awed by his show from start to finish. He performs at the MGM Grand two weeks every month. It would be wise to check in advance for show dates and times because the two weeks that Copperfield performs can vary from month to month.

At the Tropicana, Dirk Arthur performs his Xtreme Magic show Saturday through Thursday at 2 and 4 PM. Table seating for and a booth costs $34. Arthur's show features wildlife such as Bengal tigers, a white tiger and leopards beautiful women and lavish dancers. The show is an exciting display of illusion in an extreme form.

Rick Thomas performs his magic at the Stardust Hotel and features entertainment for everyone in the family. His magic is an amazing display of choreographed moves and is one of the best daytime shows in Las Vegas. Thomas is a terrific showman in addition to his skills as a magician and illusionist. His show plays on Thursday through Tuesday at 2 and 4 PM in the Wayne Newton Theatre in he Stardust Hotel.

While there are several other magic shows to be seen in Las Vegas, these shows are the most popular and well known. David Copperfield is certainly considered the "Master." However, judging from the talent displayed by other magic artists in Las Vegas, Copperfield faces serious competition in the future.

Most adults never outgrow their fascination with magic and illusion - it is child in all of us at play. It is there the first time we hold our children, and when their eyes light up in front of the Christmas tree, and when we are touched by the magic of a perfect and beautiful snowflake floating in the air. Magic is everywhere and yet so easily missed and so quickly gone. Visiting one of Las Vegas's magic shows reminds us that we need to look for the magic in each day and gives us a chance to revisit the childhood sense of wonder that we left behind years ago.