vegas trip southwest

Caesars Entertainment

An iconic vacation awaits with your stay at caesars entertainment resorts..

• 7+ (0)
• Adults Only (0)
• Culture (0)
• Gambling (0)
• Golfing (0)
• Mystery Deal (0)
• Nightlife (0)
• Romance (0)
• Shopping (0)
• Spa/Relaxation (0)
• Recommended
• Hotel Name (Ascending)
• Hotel Name (Descending)
• Star Rating (High to Low)
• Star Rating (Low to High)

Shop featured hotels to complete your package.

Caesars Palace has nearly 4,000 rooms spread among five opulent towers. As one of the largest Las Vegas hotels, choose from five towers of rooms–including the newly-renovated Palace Tower. This contemporary update is complete with 25 delectable dining outlets, exclusive Forum Shops, and the elegant and stately Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis–a collection of eight pools, each offering a distinct experience. The Colosseum spotlights world-class entertainers including Adele, Usher, Sting, Keith Urban, Rod Stewart, Reba, Brooks & Dunn and Jerry Seinfeld.

The world's first ever Nobu Hotel, situated inside a separate tower at Caesars Palace, is a luxury-infused, celebrity-driven exhibition. This hotel features in-room dining from Nobu restaurant, sleek décor, personalized concierge service, and access to all the same entertainment, casino, and dining options that Caesars Palace has to offer. ​

Located right in the center of The Strip, The LINQ Hotel + Experience has become the social hub of the Las Vegas Strip. Experience the energy and excitement of the bustling LINQ’s outdoor entertainment district, along with a fully-remodeled hotel and casino floor. Only steps away from the live concert venue Brooklyn Bowl, hip restaurants and bars, the world-famous High Roller, and the brand-new Fly LINQ, you will never run out of things to do. ​

Offering affordable accommodations, stay center-Strip in one of the fully renovated rooms at Harrah’s Las Vegas. Whether you’re thinking about shopping, swimming, sipping, or a spa day, Harrah’s is a one-stop shop offering many fun things to do in Las Vegas. Adjacent to the hotel, Carnaval Court offers a unique outdoor nightlife experience offering live music and bartenders that keep the party going day and night.​

A self-contained casino and resort offering everything an adventurous vacationer could want: a tropical wildlife habitat, adults-only Go Pool—a 15-acre Caribbean-style water playground, and select rooms with fabulous views. Opt for a newly renovated Flamingo room featuring modern décor and sleek furnishings. Located adjacent to The LINQ and The High Roller, this hotel combines heart-pounding excitement with great service.

Located right in the center of The Strip, Bally’s Las Vegas is ideal for those who appreciate classic hotels. Guest rooms feature Art Deco style accommodations and gracious amenities, while the accommodations at the all-new Resort Tower encompass 450 square feet of chic living space and stylish lounge furnishings. Superb dining, dazzling performances, and a relaxed gaming atmosphere await you for the ultimate classic Vegas experience. ​

Situated in the heart of all the energy and excitement of Las Vegas, The Cromwell remains the only standalone boutique hotel on The Strip. It offers 188 rooms and suites, distinctive dining and nightlife options, and eKey keyless entry technology. Plus, The Cromwell features the first-ever restaurant by Giada De Laurentiis, a panoramic rooftop at Drai’s Beachclub & Nightclub, and an elevated hotel lobby bar experience. 

Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is the centerpiece of the famed Las Vegas Strip. With 2,500 beautifully designed all-new guest rooms and suites with contemporary elegance and luxury bedding, eclectic food options, Miracle Mile Shops, and high-energy bars, this is a bold addition to the resort’s portfolio. Zappos Theater showcases resident headliners like Gwen Stefani, Shania Twain, and will soon be home to Kelly Clarkson.

Experience the best parts of Paris right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Known for its dramatic 50-story replica Eiffel Tower and authentic architectural reproductions, Paris Las Vegas features more than 2,900 hotel rooms and suites including the newly renovated Burgundy Rooms. Then, romance is taken to the next level at the Eiffel Tower restaurant. It has upscale French cuisine and captivating views of The Strip.

Welcome to the vibrant world of Circus Circus Reno Hotel & Casino, where excitement and entertainment await just a stone's throw away from the Reno Events Center. No matter the reason for your visit, whether you're seeking a thrilling escape from the slopes, eager to catch a mesmerizing concert, or feeling lucky enough to win big, Circus Circus promises an unforgettable experience for everyone. Delight in our exceptional four-star rated rooms while enjoying the best rates available. Your adventure starts here!

Lake Tahoe via Reno

Nestled in the vibrant heart of the "Biggest Little City," Silver Legacy Resort Casino presents a seamless blend of convenience and excitement, all within one magnificent destination. As a contemporary gem in Reno's hospitality scene, our hotel boasts an enticing array of dining options, captivating big-name entertainment, and an exhilarating casino experience. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the majestic mountains that surround us, creating an enchanting ambiance for your stay. Plus, the allure of Lake Tahoe awaits just a short, scenic drive away, adding to the allure of your adventure at Silver Legacy.

Atlantic City

Embrace the allure of royalty and indulge in a lavish escape fit for a Caesar at Caesars Atlantic City, proudly standing on the iconic boardwalk. Let yourself be immersed in a world of opulence where playing, dining, and unwinding become regal experiences. Our sumptuous hotel rooms offer a haven of luxury, while the world-class entertainment we offer guarantees moments that will be etched in your memory forever. Get ready to embark on a journey that promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the story of your life.

Prepare for an extraordinary stay at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, where exceptional amenities and electrifying entertainment await to create memories that last a lifetime. Take a chance and test your luck at our expansive casino, where the excitement never stops. Unwind in style by our indoor tropical pool with a refreshing cocktail in hand, and as the night unfolds, let loose and dance to the beats of A-list DJs at The Pool After Dark nightclub. Our plush rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed for your comfort, include pet-friendly options so that no family member is left behind. Delight your taste buds with delectable dining experiences and be captivated by the best live acts. Prepare yourself for the ultimate Atlantic City experience that awaits you at Harrah's Resort.

Customized vacation packages include:

• Round trip flight via Southwest Airlines ® to Las Vegas (LAS).
• Hotel accommodations (including taxes).
• Up to two bags fly free ®† per person, with Southwest Vacations ® . Even golf bags fly free.

Learn more about the benefits of booking with Southwest Vacations.

Travel Protection

Bags fly free®†.

†First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply. A golf bag can be substituted for one checked bag.

Seats are limited and may not be available on some flights that operate during peak travel times and holiday periods. Flight and hotel rates may vary by day of week. Hotel surcharges may apply to weekends, holidays, and convention periods. Flights available on published, scheduled service only. Rates may be subject to change until purchased. Discounts are valid per reservation before taxes are applied. Offer not valid on existing reservations and may not be combined with any other offer. Subject to availability. Restrictions apply. ALG Vacations Corp. is the tour operator for Southwest Vacations ® .​​ 

19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Book a Southwest Flight to Las Vegas on Points

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Southwest Airlines flies to 103 destinations throughout the United States, including the fabulous Las Vegas. If Las Vegas is your destination and you collect Southwest Rapid Rewards, you may be wondering how to book a Southwest flight to Las Vegas on points.

The process of redeeming points for award flights with Southwest is quick and easy. Here’s what you need to know to book Southwest award flights to Vegas.

» Learn more: The complete guide to the Southwest Rapid Rewards program

Steps to booking a Southwest award flight to Vegas

1. log into your rapid rewards account.

First, go to Southwest.com and log into your Rapid Rewards account. You’ll need to be logged in to view your points balance and redeem points for flights.

2. Find your preferred flight

Once logged in, you’ll want to perform a search to find your preferred flight. Remember to select points instead of dollars to search for award flight availability.

Southwest has a Low Fare Calendar , which can help you save money and points. This tool will show you the cheapest dates.

3. Compare flight options for your chosen date

After performing your search, take a look at the available flight options. You can sort flights by:

You can also refine your filters and choose flights with arrival or departure times that are:

Before noon.

Noon to 6 p.m.

After 6 p.m.

Southwest also shows you available options in all three fare classes. Remember, Wanna Get Away is Southwest’s most affordable fare. Anytime or Business Select fares will cost you more points, but these fare classes come with additional benefits, such as the ability to earn more points.

4. Select, confirm and book your flight of choice

Next, you’ll want to select your desired flight. After choosing your flight, Southwest will display the specific details of your flight. Now is the time to make sure everything looks correct.

If you have enough points, you’ll be able to begin the checkout process and can click the Continue button to proceed and redeem your points for the award flight.

If you don't have enough points, Southwest will prompt you to buy points or select a different award flight. If you’re only a few points away from what you need, it may make sense to top off your account. But we usually don't recommend buying points because purchased points often cost more than their value.

NerdWallet values Rapid Rewards points at 1.5 cents each . Southwest Airlines' points begin at 3 cents each for purchase, so it usually doesn’t make sense to buy points. Instead, it’s better to earn points by making purchases with Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards .

» Learn more: Which Southwest Airlines credit card should I get?

Other tips for booking an award flight to Las Vegas on Southwest

If you’re looking for Southwest award flights to Vegas, these tips may be helpful:

Consider redeeming points for Wanna Get Away Fare tickets. Wanna Get Away is Southwest’s most affordable fare type. If you’re looking to use as few points as possible for your redemption, you may want to buy this fare type.

Southwest offers free ticket changes and free cancellations on award tickets. You can cancel or change your award ticket without penalty. As long as you cancel at least 10 minutes before your scheduled takeoff, your reward points will be returned to your Rapid Rewards account — even if you booked a Wanna Get Away fare ticket.

Redeem points when flights are on sale. A few times a year, Southwest runs an airfare sale. You can take advantage of discounted airfare — even on award tickets. This is an excellent opportunity to get the flights you need for fewer points.

Keep an eye out for points purchase promotions. If you’re a few points shy of what you need for redemption and need to buy points, look for promotions. Southwest Airlines runs points buying promotions, and this can make points more affordable. With these promotions, the more points you buy, the more you save.

Earning a Companion Pass can be worthwhile. When flying with Southwest Airlines, a Companion Pass will allow you to book an additional ticket for a companion at only the cost of taxes and fees. You’ll need 100 qualifying one-way flights or 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year to earn this perk. It’s like getting a nearly free airline ticket. This perk can be used on flights booked with cash or points.

Get a Southwest Airlines credit card to earn points faster. If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and are short on points, a Southwest credit card may help you earn more Rapid Rewards points faster. Take the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card : Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's a nice chunk of points that will be added to your account.

If your travel dates are flexible, use the Low Fare Calendar. A quick way to save points and find the lowest fares possible is to use Southwest’s built-in Low Fare Calendar. With this money-saving tool you can view the cheapest available flights in dollars or points.

» Learn more: Your guide to booking award flights on Southwest

Final thoughts on Southwest flights to Las Vegas

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and have Southwest Rapid Rewards points to use up, check to see if there’s a redemption option that makes sense for you. It’s easy to book a Southwest flight with points. Plus, when you book Southwest award flights to Vegas, your trip will be more affordable. If your plans change, Southwest Airlines is extremely flexible with no change or cancellation fees.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

1-866-983-4279

• Best Price Guarantee
• Recently Seen Heard about us on radio or TV? GO
• Attractions
• Strip Clubs
• Vegas Guide
• Restaurants
• Fremont Street / Downtown
• Group Bookings
• Las Vegas Events
• Transportation

Get the most out of VEGAS.com .

• Internet Explorer 8
• Internet Explorer 9
• Internet Explorer 10

Close Message

Las Vegas Vacation Packages

Vegas.com offers the best package deals on Las Vegas vacations. With more than 400 airlines from 1,700 departure cities plus world-class Vegas resorts, we can help you create a great vacation package for the best price. And, booking your flight and hotel room together can help you save on the entire package.

Booking one of our air + hotel packages means taking the guess work out of organizing your trip. You’ll get high-quality service to help you book your flight to Vegas and get you set up in one of our outstanding hotels. You’ll be able to sit back, relax and dream of coming to Las Vegas. You know, more than you do already. The only thing you’ll have left to worry about is finding a restaurant everyone can agree on.

At Vegas.com, we bring you the very best in Las Vegas packages to deliver everything Vegas as easily as possible. Browse below or contact our Vegas Insiders to see what we have to offer to make your Las Vegas vacation the best ever. And once you've gotten the best price on your air + hotel package, be sure to check out our tours, attractions and shows to make your Las Vegas vacation complete.

Top Las Vegas Package Deals

Sign up to receive exclusive vegas.com deals, about vegas.com.

• Customer reviews
• Become an affiliate
• Advertise with us
• Terms of use
• Privacy and security
• Site feedback

Book at VEGAS.com

• Las Vegas hotels
• Las Vegas show tickets
• Las Vegas tours
• Las Vegas nightlife
• Las Vegas Restaurants
• Las Vegas golf courses
• Las Vegas weddings
• Las Vegas spas
• Las Vegas blogs

Secure online payment system

Epic 7 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-12-12

Exploring the American Southwest for the first time is mind-blowing. This landscape is like nothing you’ve ever seen. Is this how westerners feel when they visit the East Coast and see all the green forests?

We took a week to explore this region, and buddy, did we ever explore it. Including mandatory first-time visits to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Canyon, we crammed in 7 more national parks and other must-see sights for good measure.

If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to this stunning desert region, this 7 day Southwest road trip itinerary is for you!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

7 Day Southwest Road Trip: Itinerary at a Glance

Here’s the quick and dirty itinerary if you’re just looking for inspiration.

Besides Las Vegas, this Southwest USA road trip hits 4 national parks, 1 national conservation area, 1 national recreation area, 1 national monument, 1 slot canyon, 1 state park, and 1 really big dam.

• Death Valley National Park
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – Valley of Fire State Park
• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park – Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon – Horseshoe Bend – Lake Powell
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Walnut Canyon National Monument – Hoover Dam

Of course, the beauty of this itinerary is it’s flexible.

We recommend making this a 9 day trip: Fly out to Las Vegas Friday after work, spend Saturday exploring Vegas, do the epic 7 day road trip, and end up back in Vegas for some more down time before flying home the next Sunday.

This is not slow travel. This is definitely a go-go-go itinerary that only requires 5 vacation days .

You will not see everything there is to see, but you will see a lot of amazing sights in all of these parks. You’ll be able to check many of them off your national parks bucket list!

Save This Map: 7 Day Southwest USA Road Trip from Las Vegas

We’re making it easy for you to steal this Southwest USA road trip itinerary!

Click the star to the right of the map title, and it will save this map to your Google Drive! To see the map legend, click the sliding bar icon to the left of the map title.

Packing List for this Road Trip

Besides needing the standard road trip packing list , we’ve also listed specific items we found indispensable for this Southwest road trip.

We highly recommend you bring the following and keep them handy in the car throughout your trip.

• America the Beautiful Annual Pass : This is the national park annual pass, costs $80, and will pay for itself more than twice over on this trip alone.
• Water, LOTS of water: This is the desert and you always need water, even in the winter.
• Offline maps or a physical atlas: An actual atlas is the safest, but offline maps are handy so long as your phone is alive.
• Sun protection: sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, etc.
• Camp blanket: Sit and watch a sunset, or sunrise, or have a picnic lunch in the shade.
• Cooler: Nothing will stay cool in your car for long without a cooler, especially in summer, including your chapstick. (Put it in a Ziploc baggie in your cooler, for real.)
• A light jacket: Elevation change = temperature change. The higher you go, the cooler it gets. Also, the desert gets cold at night.
• Hiking boots: Through dirt, mud, ice, or snow, or something like that…
• Wide angle lens: DSLR fans will know what I mean. This is for Horseshoe Bend specifically but handy elsewhere as well.
• Hiking backpack with comfortable shoulder straps: You need to bring water with you whenever you leave your car, and water gets heavy, so make sure you’ve got cushy straps. Hiking with the 10 Essentials is never a bad idea, either.

One Week Southwest Road Trip from Las Vegas

Let’s break down the road trip itinerary by day.

We’ll give suggestions for things to do in each location, recommendations for where to eat, a head’s up on anticipated costs, tips to look out for, and where to overnight so you’re ready for the next day.

Get an America the Beautiful Annual Pass for this trip! Whether you buy it from a local park near you, at an REI store, or at Death Valley on your first day, this pass is going to save you A LOT of money.

We’ll keep track of exactly how much money it’s saved you as we go through the itinerary, but the punch line is it pays for itself more than twice over on this one week trip alone.

And it’s valid for a year, so who knows what other national park shenanigans you can get up to in that time!

Day 1 – Day Trip to Death Valley National Park

What to Do in Death Valley

• Drive from Vegas – 2 hours
• Zabriskie Point
• Furnace Creek
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
• Artist’s Palette
• Devil’s Golf Course
• Badwater Basin
• Drive back to Vegas – 2 hours

There are a lot of things you can do in Death Valley National Park , but the above list is ambitious for a single day trip, especially if you visit in summer when temperatures soar!

This is the hottest, driest, and lowest point in North America. Don’t underestimate how quickly you’ll get dehydrated or develop heat stroke.

Where to Eat in Death Valley

Packing in a lunch is the easiest option because you can eat whenever you’re hungry, no matter where you are in the park.

Alternatively, Stovepipe Wells has the Toll Road Restaurant.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Death Valley

The Death Valley entry fee is $30 per vehicle and is valid for 7 days.

We strongly recommend an America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass instead. It will pay for itself almost twice on this road trip alone.

>> Money Saved by the America the Beautiful (ATB) Pass So Far : $30

Tips for Death Valley

• Bring LOTS of water and sun protection. There’s absolutely no shade in this park.
• Download offline maps before you leave Las Vegas.
• There’s basically no cell service out here. Consider putting your phone into airplane mode when you arrive at the park so it doesn’t drain the battery looking for service all day.

Where to Spend the Night

Return to Las Vegas. Stay at The Paris or The Palazzo at The Venetian .

Day 2 – Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

What to Do in Red Rock and Valley of Fire

• Drive 30 minutes to Red Rock Canyon from downtown Las Vegas (arrive at your specific entry time if visiting between Oct 1 and May 31)
• Calico Tanks Hike
• One-way Scenic Drive through the park
• Drive 1hr15min to Valley of Fire State Park (from end of Red Rock one-way route)
• Fire Wave Hike or Rainbow Vista Hike
• White Domes Hike
• Elephant Rock hike, on the way out of the park
• Drive to Springdale, UT – 2.5 hours (and you lose an hour to time zone change)

Our recommendation is to spend the morning in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , drive over lunch to avoid the sun at its highest, spend the afternoon in Valley of Fire State Park , before finally driving up to Utah to spend the night.

>> If you’re visiting in the winter or spring (October through May), timed entry tickets are required for the scenic drive at Red Rock Canyon (most trailheads are along this route). Reserve these online ahead of your trip.

Timed tickets are required for entry between 8AM and 5PM. But if you arrive before 8AM, you don’t need a timed ticket. Something to consider if you want to get in more hikes!

>> If you’re visiting in the summer , swap out the Fire Wave hike for the Rainbow Vista hike.

Due to the exposed nature of the Fire Wave hike and the extreme heat in Nevada in the summers, the park closes the trail from June through September.

Where to Eat

Either pack a lunch or make a quick stop off of the interstate in the Vegas area. Once you get past north Vegas, there’s nothing better than convenience store food.

Reserve some snacks and water in the car for your evening drive.

Once you leave Valley of Fire, there’s a good hour and a half drive before you’ll reach any decent dinner options.

We recommend stopping in St George, UT for dinner , but Springdale is also ok if you know you can make it in time.

Remember, you lose an hour to time zones when you cross the state line. If you leave Valley of Fire at 5PM PST, you won’t get to St George until 7:30 MST or Springdale at 8:30PM MST.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area collects a $15 daily entry fee , plus a $1 reservation fee if you reserve your timed entry online ahead of time.

The America the Beautiful Pass includes Bureau of Land Management sites, too, like Red Rock Canyon. You can get in for free with a pass!

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $45

Valley of Fire State Park charges for day use at $15 per non-Nevada vehicle.

As a Nevada state park, it’s NOT covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. (If you’re a Nevada resident, it’s $10 per vehicle.)

Tips for Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

• Bring LOTS of water and sun protection. There’s a lot of hiking opportunities with minimal shade in both of these parks.
• Red Rock Canyon requires a timed entry ticket for the one-way scenic drive in peak season (Oct 1 – May 31 between 8AM and 5PM).
• Stop at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center first, and make sure you know your route before you start the scenic drive. If you miss the parking area for your hike, for example, you have to drive the entire loop and come back around.

Drive to Springdale, UT, right outside the entrance to Zion National Park.

We’re fans of the Holiday Inn Express Springdale/Zion National Park and the Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park .

Finding an affordable spot in Springdale can be hard. Refer to our complete guide for where to stay near Zion for other options.

Day 3 – Zion National Park

What to Do in Zion

• Start the day hiking The Narrows or Angels Landing (pick one)
• Emerald Pools Trail
• Retrieve your car and drive through the Tunnel to park at the Canyon Overlook trailhead
• Canyon Overlook Trail for sunset
• Drive to Bryce – 2 hours

There’s a lot you can see with a day in Zion National Park. Primarily, though, you’ll be hiking your socks off.

This is Utah’s most popular national park . You will be visiting with thousands of others if you come in the summer.

To help with congestion, shuttle buses are mandatory . No private cars are allowed in the inner canyon, unless you stay at The Zion Lodge.

Exact dates vary but this generally applies May through September and some holiday weekends.

It also means it can take you longer to move around the park. If a shuttle is full, you have to wait for the next one.

We’ve tried to temper the itinerary with this in mind, but if you have more time, feel free to add another hike or two.

Where to Eat in Zion

Packing a lunch or eating at the restaurant at the Zion Lodge (in the park’s inner canyon) is the best way to save time .

You could leave the park and eat in Springdale, which has several options, but that takes time away from Zion activities. Up to you, if the rest is something you want.

For dinner, leave Zion no later than 6PM to get to Bryce before 8PM. In winter, the restaurants in Bryce will all be closed by 8PM. (It’s not a big place.)

Don’t count on finding fast food , either. There aren’t any between Zion and Bryce.

Alternatively, you could eat dinner in Springdale before driving to Bryce after dark. Just remember to take it slow and beware of wildlife once you get on the road.

We saw HERDS of deer along the side of State Route 9 before we made it to US 89. It was definitely nerve-wracking up to that point.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Zion

Zion National Park has a $35 daily entry fee or is covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. The daily entry fee is good for 7 days.

The park shuttle is free, even if you get on in Springdale.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $80 ( officially paid for itself! )

Tips for Visiting Zion

• Mandatory shuttle during peak season. Factor in time for catching the shuttle between hikes and getting back to your car in late afternoon.
• Leave yourself plenty of time to get out of the parking lot, to get up to and through the Tunnel, and to find a parking spot for the Canyon Overlook Trailhead in time for a sunset hike.
• The Angels Landing hike now requires a permit to hike from Scouts Lookout up to Angels Landing.
• Bring a dry bag if you want to hike The Narrows. The water levels in the river can vary from ankle-deep to waist-deep.

Drive to Bryce (Canyon City) and stay at The Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel tonight. This allows you get a bright and early start tomorrow.

You can explore Bryce Canyon very thoroughly with just one day , if you get started early enough, which is why we recommend overnighting in Bryce rather than another night in Springdale.

However, there are a grand total of 3 hotels in Bryce , and they can get expensive or sell out in peak season.

We researched places to stay near Bryce and suggest a few options in case everything in Bryce itself is unavailable.

Staying another night in Springdale isn’t the end of the world if you can find availability there and not in Bryce. (Pretty unlikely though, as Zion is more popular than Bryce.)

Just keep in mind the morning rush to get into Zion can slow you down on your commute to Bryce. Yes, you will have to drive through part of Zion National Park on SR 9 to get to Bryce.

Day 4 – Bryce & Horseshoe Bend

What to Do in Bryce Canyon

• Hike early: Sunrise to Sunset Points
• Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop
• Rainbow Point Scenic Drive
• Mossy Cave hike, slight detour on the way out of town
• Drive 2.75hrs to Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ
• Catch Horseshoe Bend for sunset (or catch it tomorrow, no worries)

Bryce Canyon National Park is Utah’s second-busiest national park out of its Mighty Five. It also gets very busy in summers, but Bryce hasn’t yet made their shuttle system mandatory.

Ordinarily, we’re all about public transit to reduce congestion. But in order to see as much as possible with one day in Bryce, we recommend you bring your own car.

Most travelers can add another hike to this itinerary and still make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset.

We added Horseshoe Bend to Day 4’s itinerary purely for the sunset enthusiasts. It is gorgeous, but so is visiting during the day, which you will have time to do tomorrow if you prefer.

Don’t feel bad skipping Horseshoe Bend today if you’d rather do another hike in Bryce instead.

Where to Eat in Bryce & Page

We recommend packing in a lunch or eating at one of the restaurants near the Lodge . Leaving to eat lunch in town and re-entering the park after just wastes precious sightseeing time.

For dinner, we’re assuming you stuck to the itinerary and made it to Page.

We ate at the Dam Diner our first night in town, and it was perfect. Good variety on the menu, delicious food, and the décor is on point!

Entrance Fees/Cost for Bryce & Horseshoe Bend

Bryce Canyon National Park also has a $35 entry fee, good for 7 days .

Or, it’s FREE with your Annual Park Pass , and yes, I’m going to keep saying this until it sinks in.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $115

Horseshoe Bend has no NPS entrance fee , but the City of Page charges a parking fee for their large, maintained, and police-monitored parking lot at the trailhead.

There used to be a huge safety problem here because people would park along the side of the busy highway and cause accidents dashing across the road to the trailhead or pulling out in front of cars when they left.

The city built a parking lot and now keeps a police presence here so people don’t park on the side of the highway. It’s much safer than it used to be.

Most private vehicles are $10. Ubers are considered commercial vehicles, and they’ll charge them $35 to park. Currently, there is no uber drop off zone so you cannot avoid the parking fee.

For more information, read our review for everything you need to know to hike the Horseshoe Bend Overlook trail.

Tips for Visiting Bryce Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

• You need legit hiking boots to hike in Bryce. In winter, you need waterproof boots and spikes you can attach for traction in snow and slush. In summer, you need that ankle support and boot traction as nearly all hiking trails start out steep as you descend into the canyon. ( Trust us; we learned this one the hard way .)
• On Bryce’s scenic drive, drive all the way up to Rainbow Point first, and then stop at the overlooks on the way back down. It’s easier for flow of traffic.
• Catch Horseshoe Bend for sunset, but beware of the crowds (the parking lot may fill up) and realize that the canyon bend will be in deep shade. For photos of the incredible orange canyon walls and blue river below, visit tomorrow during the day (but you’ll have to pay to park again.)
• Bring a wide angle lens for photographing Horseshoe Bend with a DSLR camera. Some newer cell phones can get it all in frame, but the ratio will create a serious crop if you try to print it later. The wide angle lens gets the whole bend in frame at a ratio that can be easily printed.

Stay the night in Page, AZ. The Holiday Inn Express Page or the Hampton Inn & Suites Page/Lake Powell are our go-to hotel chains ( hello, loyalty points! ) but there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Page.

It’s not a big town. All hotels are close together and equally close to shops and restaurants.

Day 5 – Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, & Lake Powell

What to Do in Page

• Horseshoe Bend (if missed yesterday or if you want the full-color views)
• Antelope Canyon tour (midday for light beams in Upper Canyon; whenever for Lower Canyon)
• Afternoon at Lake Powell, or drive 2hrs out to Monument Valley and 2hrs back

If you’re new to Antelope Canyon, read this: Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which is Best to Visit?

It explains the differences between the two, pros and cons for each, and helps you choose which is best for you and your traveling group’s budget, time, and accessibility needs.

Book Antelope Canyon tours as far in advance as you can. They will absolutely sell out months ahead of time.

You can then build the rest of your day around your Antelope Canyon tour time. Horseshoe Bend will only take about an hour, max. That leaves the rest of the day for hiking or boating around Lake Powell.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a sprawling National Park Service site that includes popular spots like Horseshoe Bend, Lee’s Ferry, the Glen Canyon Dam, and Lake Powell.

The most popular areas near Page are Lee’s Ferry, Wahweap, the Glen Canyon Dam, and Antelope Point.

If you opt for the afternoon drive out to Monument Valley , bring lots of water, a few snacks, extra batteries for your camera, and plenty of road trip entertainment.

There is a whole lot of nothing on this drive, except for the amazing scenery.

Where to Eat in Page

Page has a handful of fast food joints for quick eats for lunch, or stop by a grocery store to cobble together an easy picnic lunch while you’re out exploring.

For dinner, ask your hotel concierge which is their favorite restaurant and go there. Big John’s Texas BBQ is a fan-favorite!

Entrance Fees/Cost for Page-area Attractions

Antelope Canyon tour fees vary by time of year and which canyon you visit.

Budget as little as $61 per person for Lower Antelope Canyon in low season to as much as $120 per person for a prime time slot for Upper Antelope Canyon in peak season.

Note that combo tours with other canyons are available in some cases, but will be higher.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which includes Lake Powell, collects a $30 entry fee, valid for 7 days. Once again, it’s also covered by the America the Beautiful Pass if you have one.

Lake Powell’s water levels have been struggling recently. Several marinas, docks, and boat launches are closed due to low water levels. Check the park website before you go to see what’s open.

Lee’s Ferry and the Glen Canyon Dam are pretty much always open, and guided tours of Lake Powell are a good way to let the locals show you around.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $145

See above (Day 4 – Entrance Fees/Cost) for discussion of costs for Horseshoe Bend. In short, you’ll need $10 to park at the trailhead.

Tips for Visiting Page and its Sights

• Book a midday tour for the epic light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon.
• If you’re visiting in winter, book a cheaper Lower Antelope Canyon tour. The light beams in Upper Antelope aren’t visible in the winter.
• There’s ZERO SHADE at Horseshoe Bend. Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sun protection, no matter the time of year you visit.

Stay another night in Page and relax a bit.

Day 6 – Grand Canyon

What to Do at the Grand Canyon

• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park’s east entrance – 2 hours
• Take your time to drive the Desert View Scenic Drive to the visitor center, stopping at overlooks along the way
• Park at the Visitor Center
• Walk to Mather Point and along the Rim Trail to Yavapai Geology Museum and back
• Shuttle the Orange Route (Yaki Point); Take a quick hike to the Ooh Aah Point.
• Shuttle the Red Route (Hermits Rest Road); Sunset at Hopi Point
• Drive to Flagstaff – 1.5 hours

Grand Canyon National Park is at the top of most people’s national park bucket lists . It’s definitely a sight to behold that you won’t regret!

We didn’t suggest driving up last night because, when coming from Page, you enter via the east entrance of Grand Canyon National Park.

This happens to be right next to the Desert Watchtower , and the drive to the visitor center from here is the Desert View Scenic Drive .

You want to do this drive during the day so you can stop at all the overlooks along the way.

Once you get to the visitor center, you can shuffle the itinerary however you like based on your lunch needs.

If you packed a lunch, you have maximum flexibility, but if you need a restaurant, you need to shuttle to the Village area or out to Tusayan.

The Orange Route requires a mandatory shuttle ride, year-round. The Red Route requires a shuttle ride typically March through November.

Where to Eat in Grand Canyon

If you follow the itinerary, you should arrive at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center a little before or right at lunch time.

The canyon rim is a fantastic place for a picnic lunch , and you’re close to your car if you need to bring anything back after lunch, like a small cooler.

If you prefer restaurants , shuttle over to the Grand Canyon Village or Market Plaza areas for lunch.

You can also shuttle out to Tusayan for lunch and back into the park in the afternoon, but it’ll cut into your sightseeing time by a couple of hours.

In the evening, if you can wait long enough, eat dinner in Flagstaff . This can be difficult in the summer, since sunset is so late, but it’s doable in the winter.

Alternatively, stop in Tusayan or at one of the restaurants in Grand Canyon Village before heading out for an evening drive to Flagstaff.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park charges a $35 entry fee, valid for 7 days, and includes both the South Rim and the North Rim.

Or, you guessed it, visit the Grand Canyon for free with an annual park pass.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $180 ( paid for itself, twice! )

Shuttles around the park’s South Rim are free.

Note : We didn’t include the Grand Canyon North Rim on this road trip itinerary because we’re hitting the highlights and don’t really have time for both rims. If your main focus is the Grand Canyon and you want to see both rims, we have a whole series of Grand Canyon road trip itineraries you may enjoy, whether you’ve got 3 days or 2 weeks for vacation.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon

• Hopi Point is packed for sunset but many overlooks are good for sunset
• Shuttles for the Orange Route (to Yaki Point) are mandatory all year.
• Shuttles for the Red Route (Hermits Rest Road) are mandatory in peak season, usually March through November.

This depends on your budget and availability more than on driving distance for tomorrow’s adventures.

Staying in the park at one of the excellent lodges is always pricey but could be worth the splurge for the views.

Tusayan is right outside the park’s southern entrance, so the convenience factor is high. Prices are correspondingly high and availability is often scarce.

Flagstaff is 1.5 hours from the southern entrance and will always be cheaper and have more availability. Williams is another possibility, slightly closer to the park but fewer hotel options.

Day 7 – Walnut Canyon & Hoover Dam

• If you stayed in Flagstaff, start at Walnut Canyon National Monument to view Native American cliff dwellings.
• Hike the Island Trail.
• Consider hiking the Rim Trail, if you have time.
• Drive 3.5hrs to Hoover Dam (Tours and shops operate on PST, so you gain an hour on the drive)
• Tour Hoover Dam
• Stop for a quick walk out onto the bridge for an iconic Hoover Dam pic
• Continue on to Las Vegas (45 min drive) or one of the suburbs, to your hotel for the night.

Day 7 is sort of a catch-all day for this Southwest USA road trip itinerary. There are a lot of different ways you can spend the day, so long as you end up back in Vegas when it’s all said and done.

Our suggested itinerary above includes more Southwest US must-see sights, but you could spend another half day in Grand Canyon National Park before heading back to Las Vegas in the late afternoon/evening.

Or, there’s the Route 66 Museum in Kingman or a detour out to the Grand Canyon Skywalk on the way back to Vegas.

Maybe you want to beeline back to Vegas and enjoy some down time in a legendary Las Vegas hotel pool, or do some sightseeing in Vegas .

These are all good ideas. Pick whatever suits you best!

Where to eat

Kingman, AZ is a good stop for lunch on the drive back to Vegas. If you follow our itinerary, you should arrive around noon-ish.

Whatever your plans for Day 7, we recommend being back in the Vegas-area for dinner . There is always something open in Vegas.

Entrance Fees/Cost

Walnut Canyon National Monument is $25 entry, valid for one week. But also, it’s covered by the America the Beautiful Pass and could be free for you!

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $205

Hoover Dam tours are NOT covered by the America the Beautiful pass.

Hoover Dam is operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, not the Park Service, and is actually self-sustaining from its ticket sales.

Visiting Hoover Dam can be free if all you want to do is stop and take a picture.

Park at the Bridge Overlook Parking lot, walk up the paved path and along the side of the Pat Tillman Bridge, and get that iconic photo of Hoover Dam. Then walk back to your car and leave.

We highly recommend the in-depth Guided Dam Tour for $30 per person , for all the fascinating stories and details about how this colossal engineering marvel was built with 1930’s technology.

You go inside the dam, see the power plant, see the inspection tunnels, and even get a picture through one of the vents in the middle of the dam.

Hoover Dam also offers a self-guided tour of the visitor center for $10 or a Guided Tour of the Power Plant Only for $15. (Both guided tours include access to the self-guided visitor center tour.)

The parking garage on the Nevada side and Parking Lot 9 on the Arizona side are both $10 flat fee (not hourly) .

Parking in the upper lots on the Arizona side is free , but it is a bit of a walk down to the dam, the visitor center, and the shops.

Tips for Visiting Walnut Canyon & the Hoover Dam

• Walnut Canyon’s Island Trail begins and ends with several flights of stairs. There are benches to rest, but it’s not a mobility-friendly trail.
• Hoover Dam’s Guided Power Plant Tour and Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour tickets are both available for advance purchase online. They often sell out!
• The in-depth Dam Tour tickets are NOT available online. You must be present in person to buy those tickets, first come, first served.

Las Vegas, or one of the surrounding suburbs with easy access to the airport but cheaper hotels.

Reminder, The Palazzo at The Venetian accepts IHG rewards points. #gamechanger

Enjoy exploring the Southwest on this Las Vegas Road Trip Loop!

Whether you spend a week on this road trip or extend it to 9 days for some extra Vegas sightseeing, we hope this Southwest USA road trip was a good introduction to the region and inspires you to come back!

Recap of helpful resources for planning your Vegas road trip loop:

• 35 Fun (and Sober!) Things to Do in Las Vegas
• One Day in Death Valley National Park
• Where to Stay near Zion
• Where to Stay near Bryce
• How to See Everything in Bryce Canyon National Park in One Day
• Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which is Best for You?
• What to Expect on the Horseshoe Bend Hike
• One Day in Grand Canyon National Park
• 8 Epic Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

You Might Also Like

15 Unique Things to Do in Mount Pleasant, SC + Isle of Palms & Sullivan’s Island

Visiting Whitefish Point: 4 Fun Things to Do in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The Complete Guide to the Charles Town Landing State Historic Site

• Book a Flight
• Manage Reservations
• Explore Destinations
• Flight Schedules
• Track Checked Bags
• International Travel
• Flight Offers
• Low Fare Calendar
• Upgrade My Flight
• Add EarlyBird Check-In
• Check Travel Funds
• Buy Carbon Offsets
• Flying with Southwest
• Book a Hotel
• Redeem Points for Hotels
• More Than Hotels
• Hotel Offers
• Best Rate Guarantee
• Rapid Rewards Partners
• Book a Vacation Package
• Manage My Vacation
• Vacation Package Offers
• Vacation Destinations
• Why Book With Us?
• FLIGHT STATUS
• CHANGE FLIGHT

Baltimore/Washington (BWI), MD to Las Vegas, NV

departing on 6/3

one-way starting at*

* Restrictions and exclusions apply. Seats and dates are limited. Select markets. 23 travel days available.

Check out Baltimore/Washington (BWI) to Las Vegas flights and book yours now!

Other popular flights from Baltimore/Washington (BWI):

† Weekly flights based on DOT published scheduled average flights Monday through Sunday between 4/1/2024 and 4/30/2024. Note: route may not operate every day of the week.

‡ Nonstop flights based on DOT published scheduled average flights Monday through Sunday between 4/1/2024 and 4/30/2024.

Explore Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is more than just casinos—not that we'll fault you for sticking to the Strip. You can explore museums and nearby national parks and hiking opportunities in addition to the glamorous spas, shopping, shows, and, yes, gambling that you can find on the main drag of Las Vegas.

Red Rock National Conservation Area offers hikers beautiful vistas, although you might want to wait until the cooler temperatures of fall and winter to try it out. Another way to escape the desert heat is to drive about an hour up to Mount Charleston/Spring Mountain National Recreation Area, popular in both summer for less punishing heat and in winter for snow sports. Vegas has plenty of opportunities for outdoors enthusiasts to get out of the city and enjoy nature.

For families searching for educational things to do in Las Vegas, consider museums that range from traditional to wild. The Discover Children's Museum is ready to help run off little ones' excess energy, while the Neon Museum offers a great view of an American advertising tradition. For older kids and teens, Bodies: The Exhibition and the National Atomic Testing Museum are chances to discuss biology and history. And if you're leaving the kids at home, the Burlesque Hall of Fame, Mob Museum, and other similarly grown-up museums are waiting to detail Vegas's scintillating past and present.

While you're in Las Vegas be sure to take in the sights of the Strip. You can walk along the main drag, perhaps while sipping on a margarita, and admire the glitz and lights of Las Vegas's famed hotels, malls, and attractions. Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum is right in the heart of things and perfect for pictures and selfies with "celebrities." Don't forget to plan time for Vegas's famous shows. From traditional showgirl reviews and resident singers to Cirque du Soleil's stunning offerings, Las Vegas is chock full of entertainment just waiting for you to arrive.

Travel tips

Infancy policy

One child over 14 days and under two (2) years of age, not occupying a seat, may be carried free of charge when traveling with an adult (12 years of age or older). Learn more.

Customers flying with a pet are subject to a pet fare. To learn more about traveling with your furry friend, explore the Southwest ® pet policy.

Unaccompanied minor

Minors under the age of 18 are not permitted to fly unaccompanied on international flights or any itinerary that includes an international flight. Learn more.

The Southwest travel experience

Harry Reid International Airport is in Paradise, just five miles outside of downtown Las Vegas.

At Southwest, we know it takes more than great deals on Las Vegas airfares and convenient scheduling options to make your trip memorable. So from booking to boarding, we offer services and features designed to make your travel from Baltimore/Washington (BWI) to Las Vegas the best it can be. Learn more about the Southwest ® travel experience before you book your flight from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to Harry Reid International Airport.

Flying with Southwest is simple and fun, no matter which of our dozens of exciting destinations you choose. When you search for your next flight to Las Vegas, know that you won’t be surprised at checkout. Low fares and no hidden fees. That's Trans fare ncy ® . And as always, two bags fly free ® 1 . Want the latest news, information, and promotional offers from Southwest? Sign up to receive email from us. Book your flight today and know that you'll earn Rapid Rewards ® points when you fly.

1 First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply.

2 Fare difference may apply.

3 Failure to cancel a reservation at least 10 minutes prior to departure may result in forfeited Travel Funds.

4 Flight credits unexpired on or created on or after July 28, 2022, do not expire and will show an expiration date until our systems are updated. See full details here .

5 Where available. Available only on WiFi-enabled aircraft. Limited-time offer.

6 Due to licensing restrictions, on WiFi-enabled international flights, free live TV and iHeartRadio may not be available for the full duration of flight.​

7 Internet access for $8 per device from takeoff to landing. Price is subject to change. May not be available for the full duration of flight. In order to provide a top-notch Internet experience, we prohibit access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites. We also prohibit access to certain obscene or offensive content.​

Questions we hear the most

Help center.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell/Share My Info

© 2024 Southwest Airlines Co. All Rights Reserved.

Vacations in Las Vegas

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in las vegas.

Let KAYAK do the searching

Save on your next vacation

Search and compare hundred of travel sites at once for vacation packages in Las Vegas, Nevada

We’re completely free to use - No hidden charges or fees

Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more

Cheap Las Vegas package deals

Most popular las vegas flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to las vegas, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in las vegas, tips for finding las vegas package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Las Vegas and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $372; Family vacation $328; Romantic vacation $478; Luxury vacation $517; Budget vacation $240.

Why should you book a vacation package to Las Vegas?

The best way to enjoy Las Vegas, saving time and money, is with a vacation package. By bundling together hotels and flights, you will often be able to take advantage of preferential rates, as opposed to standard single rates when booking separately. You will also save time matching hotel availability to your flights. If flexibility isn’t your priority, Las Vegas vacation packages could leave you more money to spend in the city itself, rather than on getting there.

When should you book a vacation package to Las Vegas?

Booking a Las Vegas flight and hotel package is an efficient way to save on stress and cash. For the best deals and rooms, it’s advisable to search for Las Vegas vacation packages during quieter periods. Traveling during the week is generally more affordable than at weekends, and by booking earlier you can help avoid higher rates. The July-August ‘Monsoon’ season is a good time to find Las Vegas travel deals, as most travelers opt to visit during spring and fall when the weather is hotter and dryer. It’s also a good time to get away from the concrete and visit the surrounding valleys, mountains and national parks in cooler weather.

Whilst searching for Las Vegas travel deals, be sure to check out seasonal activities. Most crowd-pulling events such as the NASCAR race, the Super Bowl, and the Rodeo happen during fall and winter as well as major conventions such as the Consumer Electronics Show and the Magic International.

Where should you stay in Las Vegas during your vacation?

For any vacation type in las vegas:.

The Aria Resort and Casino is one of the classiest hotels on the Las Vegas strip, offering private cabana rental alongside a range of first-class, dedicated amenities to make your Las Vegas getaway feel special. The resort is just a 10-minute drive from McCarran International, and offers a 24-hour taxi and limo booking service. If you book a Sky Suite with the hotel, luxury transfer to and from the airport is included.

The Venetian Resort Hotel is a luxurious, whimsical Las Vegas creation. Housed in a sprawling Italianate palazzo, it boasts an on-site grand canal complete with gondolas, renaissance mall, spacious, eco-friendly suites and 10 outdoor pools. The hotel is just 12 minutes by car or taxi from the airport, and it offers a wide range of transport options, from a taxi booking service to a ‘Grazie’ shuttle service (free for Gold and Platinum members), running every half hour between 6.am and 6.30pm.

For family vacations in Las Vegas:

Marriot’s Grand Chateau, 15-minutes’ walk from the strip, boasts spacious family rooms, free valet parking, kids’ activity rooms and a bird’s-eye view of central Las Vegas. Just a ten-minute drive from the airport, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector, carry on to Swenson Street, then left onto E Harmon Ave. The Chateau offers free valet parking.

The Mandarin Oriental offers cozy family rooms and a range of child-oriented services, from children’s afternoon tea to the arrangement of certified babysitters, to ensure a stress-free stay for the whole family. The hotel is around a ten-minute drive by cab or car from the airport and is located right on ‘The Strip’.

For romantic vacations in Las Vegas:

The Desert Rose Resort, just 2 blocks from the southern part of the Strip, is a great choice for couples on a budget. It boasts a range of contemporary condominium suites with private patios or balconies. As it doesn’t host on-site bars or clubs, it’s ideal for those looking for something quieter. Just seven minutes from the airport by car, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector then left onto E. Tropicana Ave. After 1.6 miles, turn left onto Duke Ellington Way – the resort is on the right.

The MGM Grand attracts some of the world’s most famous acts to its numerous nightclubs and showrooms. With pool complexes, a range of signature bars and restaurants, and generously-sized suites, it’s an ideal honeymoon resort. The resort offers tax assistance and features on shuttle service routes to and from the airport (just 7 minutes away, though usually longer via shuttle). If driving from McCarran International, head north onto McCarran Airport Connector and left onto E. Tropicana Ave., then right onto Audrie St. and left towards the resort entrance.

For luxury vacations in Las Vegas:

The Wynne Las Vegas is a dazzling luxurious resort, featuring a full casino, dozens of boutiques and matchlessly designed amenities. The hotel doesn’t offer a free shuttle service, but is located directly on the Strip, and is easily reachable (around 12 minutes) from McCarran International via cab or hired car.

The Four Seasons in Mandalay Bay offers glorious views of the surrounding desert mountains from chic, Art-Deco suites. Alongside stellar on-site restaurants, guests can enjoy tailored treatments in the Forbes Five Star Spa. Limo, taxi and rental car services are available for airport transfers (around 12 minutes away) and beyond.

For budget vacations in Las Vegas:

The Mardi Gras Hotel and Casino is located 5 minutes from the Monorail and offers free shuttles to the Strip and airport transfers (between 7am and 10pm). It also offers free service level parking and a friendly full-service bar and restaurant. From the airport, simply head north on Paradise Road for 2.3 miles. The hotel is on the right.

The Circus Circus Hotel, Casino, and Theme Park is just 5 minutes’ drive from the Convention Center and offers free entertainment nightly. The hotel is just 8 minutes away from the airport by cab, or half an hour way via line 108 bus.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

Las vegas vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

• London package vacations
• Los Angeles package vacations
• Miami package vacations
• Miami Beach package vacations
• Montego Bay package vacations
• Myrtle Beach package vacations
• Nassau package vacations
• New Orleans package vacations
• New York package vacations
• Orlando package vacations
• Paris package vacations
• Playa del Carmen package vacations
• Puerto Rico package vacations
• Punta Cana package vacations
• Rome package vacations
• Saint Martin package vacations
• San Diego package vacations
• San Francisco package vacations
• San Juan package vacations
• Seattle package vacations

These 5 road trips from Las Vegas will take you far beyond casinos and glitz

Apr 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Not far from the glitz of the Strip, the open road offers desert adventures © JacobH / Getty Images

In a city filled with the atypical, it’s easy to fall into the typical tourist routine in Las Vegas .

The generationally accepted Sin City mantra is to gamble, catch a show, gamble some more, have a few drinks, enjoy a little entertainment…and repeat as many times as humanly possible until you have to stagger back to the airport and catch your flight home. Vegas’ two tourist zones, the Strip or Downtown/ Fremont Street , are within a 15-minute drive of one another; if you stay in one, perhaps you’ll make an excursion to the other. And that’s the extent of a “day trip” for most.

Yet far too many visit Las Vegas without exploring the top-notch historical, geographical and cultural attractions nearby, many of which are within a three-hour drive. By renting a car, you can coast through the likes of Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire of State Park within 45 minutes (though we recommend taking more time, to explore the orange rock formations in both by hiking).

It’s pretty easy to navigate Las Vegas and surrounding areas via generally well-kept and well-paved roadways, with Interstate 15 (running north-south), Clark County Rte 215 (a beltway encircling the city) and a US Rte 95 (a northwest-southeast diagonal) the key roads to know.

It’s true that Las Vegas is surrounded by desert, and this arid region doesn’t abound with notable road-trip stops. But quality makes up for quantity, and you’ll find a world of wonder awaits within reach of Sin City: think the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, quirky hotels, national parks…and so much more.

Here are three true day trips – plus two additional multi-day options – that will help expand your Las Vegas horizons.

1. Grand Canyon West

Best road trip to do via bus Las Vegas–Grand Canyon West Skywalk; 125 miles (201km); allow one (long) day

The Western Rim of the Grand Canyon (known as Grand Canyon West ) is within a two-and-a-half-hour bus ride of Las Vegas. Tour operators like Grand Canyon Destinations , Gray Line and GC Tours pack it all in one day, making early morning pick-ups, allowing three-or-so hours of free time and stopping for optional meals. The “must” at Grand Canyon West is a tip-toe along the cantilevered, glass-bottomed  Skywalk .

Planning tip: Grand Canyon West is operated by the Hualapai Nation (whereas Grand Canyon National Park is under the purview of the National Park Service). From Las Vegas, a trip to the national park will take substantially more time, and should be a multi-day affair. 

2. Boulder City

Best road trip for history lovers Las Vegas–Boulder City; 26 miles (42km); allow one day  

While this city is only a 30-minute drive southwest of Las Vegas, it feels a world apart. Whereas the Strip is all about creative destruction and ever-bigger resorts, Boulder City has more than 500 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, most of which were constructed in the 1930s and ’40s. The city came into being in the ’30s, when workers from across the USA converged to build nearby Hoover Dam ; you can learn all about the key figures at the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum . En route to the majestic dam – just 15 minutes northeast of Boulder City – stop at Hemenway Park , which offers panoramic vistas of the often bright-blue Lake Mead . 

Detour: Henderson is Nevada ’s second-largest city, and its Water St artery regularly hosts car shows, parades and farmers markets.

3. Laughlin

Best road trip for a river reprieve Las Vegas–Laughlin; 97 miles (156km); allow one day  

On the southern tip of Nevada on the Colorado River, you’ll find this cozy, casino-filled town. Along north-south main drag Casino Dr, you’ll see a handful of gambling names that you’ll also find in Las Vegas, including Golden Nugget , Harrah’s and Tropicana . So why Laughlin ? Its appeal boils down to cheaper table games, less swank and river adventures aplenty.

Water excursions come in all forms here, including guided kayaking journeys with Desert River Outfitters , Jet Ski rentals with Watercraft Adventures or hikes along the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Trail , which runs adjacent to the river.

Best road trip for seeing another side of the Silver State Las Vegas–Reno; 438 miles (705km); allow 4–5 days  

With its vast green landscapes, a slower pace and small-town vibes, northern Nevada is a different world from Las Vegas. Its anchor is Reno – aka the “Biggest Little City in the World,” a nickname proudly proclaimed by an arched sign in the city’s Commercial Row core. Reno is a nearly 7-hour drive from Vegas following US Rte 95.

En route, stop at the Goldfield Hotel , the 1902 hallmark of an eerily quiet town and regarded as one of the most haunted structures in the US. Keep that haunted streak going with a visit to the Clown Motel in Tonopah , which also has a free clown museum in its lobby. Tonopah is also stargazing heaven, hosting  a biweekly “Star Party”  after dark every April through October. Telescopes and binoculars are provided to get up close and personal with the constellations.

Once you arrive in Reno, hit the Reno Brewery District , which has more than 15 craft spots. Nevada’s first meadery, the Black Rabbit Mead Company uses locally sourced honey in its brews.

5. Zion National Park

Best road trip for outdoors enthusiasts Las Vegas–Springdale, Utah; 159 miles (256km); allow 4–5 days  

Within a two-hour drive of Sin City, a world of emerald pools, soaring pine-lined trails and the Angels Landing bucket-list hike await. And for all the wonder you’ll find within Zion National Park , getting there from Las Vegas is half the fun. Along the way – generally a straight-north shot on I-15 – stop at Valley of Fire State Park to see mounds of sandstone with red patterns reminiscent of a cinnamon bun, as well as 2000-year-old petroglyphs etched in caves. Continue north to the city of St George, just over the Utah border. Red mountains loom in the distance over its historic downtown and art district; pop in the St George Art Museum for rotating exhibits that showcase the Western USA ’s rocky and rugged beauty.

As you approach Zion, Springdale, the quaint town at the park’s southern gate, has southwest-inspired souvenir shops, hotel-chain outposts and the five-star LaFave Luxury Resort , which has villas that sleep up to 10. If want to camp in the park, Watchman Campground is open year-round, with reservations accepted up to six months ahead of booking. 

Detour: Tucked off Interstate 15, Mesquite is a golfer’s paradise, with nine public courses – including the Jack Nicklaus–designed Coyote Springs Golf Club – within a 10-minute radius of town.

Explore related stories

National Parks

Apr 3, 2024 • 6 min read

A trio of treasures, Florida’s national parks cater those who love everything wild and offbeat about the Sunshine State. Here’s all you need to know.

Apr 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 1, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 30, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 3 min read

• Entertainment
• Investigations
• Latest Headlines
• Tropicana Closure
• What Are They Hiding?
• 2024 Election
• Clark County
• Nation and World
• Science and Technology
• Road Warrior
• Las Vegas Weather
• East Valley
• North Las Vegas
• Summerlin/Centennial Hills
• Remembering Oct. 1, 2017
• Deborah Wall
• Natalie Burt
• Remembering Jeff German
• Police Accountability
• Alpine Fire
• 100 Years of Growth
• Dangerous Driving
• Raiders News
• Golden Knights
• UNLV Football
• UNLV Basketball
• Nevada Preps
• Sports Betting 101
• Las Vegas Sportsbooks
• National Finals Rodeo
• Where Are They Now?
• On TV/Radio
• MMA and UFC
• Casinos & Gaming
• Conventions
• Inside Gaming
• Entrepreneurs
• Real Estate News
• Business Press
• Sheldon Adelson (1933-2021)
• Debra J. Saunders
• Michael Ramirez cartoons
• Victor Joecks
• Richard A. Epstein
• Victor Davis Hanson
• Drawing Board
• Homicide Tracker
• Faces of Death Row
• Kats’ Cool Hangs
• Arts & Culture
• Home and Garden
• Las Vegas Hiking Guide
• RJ Magazine
• Today’s Obituaries
• Submit an obit
• Dealer News
• Classifieds
• Place a Classified Ad
• Provided Content
• Real Estate Millions
• Internships
• Service Directory
• Transportation
• Merchandise
• Legal Information
• Real Estate Classifieds
• Garage Sales
• Contests and Promotions
• Best of Las Vegas
• Nevada State Bank
• Verizon Business
• P3 Health Partners
• Adult Health
• Star Nursery
• Partner Articles
• Ignite Funding
• Supplements
• Travel Nevada
• Subscriptions
• Newsletters
• Advertise with Us

• >> Local
• >> Local Las Vegas

Las Vegas-bound flight halted in Texas due to possible engine trouble

A Southwest Airlines plane headed for Las Vegas was halted Thursday night during takeoff in Lubbock, Texas, because of “a possible engine issue.”

A Southwest Airlines plane headed for Las Vegas was halted Thursday night during takeoff from Preston Smith International Airport in Lubbock, Texas, because of possible engine trouble.

Flight 1928 stopped its takeoff roll once the plane’s crew learned of “a possible engine issue” and then “taxied under its own power back to a gate at the terminal,” according to an emailed statement from Southwest.

Passengers exited the aircraft, and Southwest worked to book them onto another plane bound for Harry Reid International Airport, Southwest officials stated.

“We estimate that they will arrive in Las Vegas about three hours behind schedule,” according to statement released later Thursday evening.

“We apologize for the delayed journey and place nothing higher than the safety of our customers and employees,” it stated.

A Reid airport spokesman, reached Thursday, said that he was unaware of the incident.

Contact Jeff Burbank at [email protected] or 702-383-0382. Follow him @JeffBurbank2 on X.

A hearing on the controversial proposal for a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in the northwest valley has been moved to next month.

The two women and one man robbed a business about 4:30 p.m. March 30 near the 3000 block of East Tropicana Avenue.

The pop superstar has rescheduled her postponed “Weekends With Adele” dates at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

Federal funds announced Friday will go toward upgrading street lights in heavy accident areas and toward funding video mirrors for public transit.

Southern Nevada residents will be able to see about 60 percent of the sun as the moon will only partially cover it during the solar eclipse on Monday.

The 64-story Trump International Hotel doesn’t have a casino and it’s unclear whether it could be sold to pay off Donald Trump’s court judgments.

Work continues on the city of Las Vegas’ $165 million Civic Plaza project with a significant milestone happening this week.

Colin Andrew Shapard, 23, had been linked to two teens’ drug deaths as a juvenile.

Las Vegas police have released video that shows the dramatic rescue after one of the agency’s K-9 officers was stabbed multiple times.

The person who took the motorcycle hit several parked cars as he fled the area, police said.

Southwest Airlines flight makes emergency landing after severe turbulence injures 2

NEW ORLEANS ( WVUE /Gray News) - A Southwest Airlines flight had to make an emergency landing on Wednesday.

WVUE reports that a Southwest flight traveling from New Orleans to Orlando, Florida, was forced to make an emergency landing in Tampa, Florida, due to severe turbulence.

According to an airline spokesperson, the flight captain declared an emergency and diverted the aircraft from its scheduled route.

Paramedics were on standby as the flight landed at Tampa International Airport.

Two women -- a flight attendant and a passenger -- were taken to the hospital for treatment upon landing, the airline spokesperson said. The extent of their injuries was not immediately disclosed.

Mechanics were inspecting the aircraft after the emergency landing and Southwest said it was assisting passengers with alternate travel arrangements.

“With our apologies for their delayed journey, there is no priority higher than the safest operation of every flight,” the spokesperson added.

Copyright 2024 WVUE via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hundreds of invasive goldfish being removed from Henderson pond

Buy groceries at Walmart recently? You could get up to $500 as part of a class action settlement

‘My fridge is empty’: Welfare fraud leaves some Las Vegas-area residents without answers

Las Vegas police seek assistance identifying retail crime suspects

New video shows dramatic rescue of Las Vegas K9 after stabbing

Latest news.

Couple adopts senior dog Fiona, who spent 11 years in a shelter

Shooting at Martini Bar in Doral, Florida

7-year-old raises nearly $10,000 for mother’s headstone with lemonade stand

Decaf coffee is not safe for human consumption, health advocacy group warns

Cracker Barrel’s first-ever ‘yard sale’ of antique restaurant décor sells out in 30 minutes

Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More

Continue in Browser

Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts.

Please enter a valid zipcode.

An engine on a Southwest Airlines jet caught fire before taking off from Texas. FAA is investigating

DALLAS (AP) — Federal officials are investigating a reported engine fire that forced a Southwest Airlines plane to cancel takeoff and return to the gate at the Lubbock, Texas, airport on Thursday.

What You Need To Know

Southwest said friday that pilots “received an indication of a possible engine issue,” and the boeing 737 taxied back to the terminal at lubbock preston smith international airport the lubbock fire department said online that it confirmed there was a fire in one of the two engines that needed to be extinguished the federal aviation administration said it was investigating the incident.

Southwest said Friday that pilots “received an indication of a possible engine issue,” and the Boeing 737 taxied back to the terminal at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport.

The Lubbock Fire Department said online that it confirmed there was a fire in one of the two engines that needed to be extinguished.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it was investigating the incident.

The flight was headed to Las Vegas with 154 passengers and crew of six on board, Southwest said. The airline flew in a replacement plane from Dallas to complete the trip later Thursday night.

The plane was a Boeing 737-800, an older model than the 737 Max. The engines are made by CFM International, a joint venture between General Electric and France's Safran S.A.