day trips outside vegas

22 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas You’ll Absolutely Love

Posted on Published: December 15, 2022  - Last updated: April 4, 2024

Looking to escape the busy city of Las Vegas? Of course you are! There’s so many amazing adventures just minutes away. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Las Vegas, here’s your list!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Las Vegas has a reputation for shopping, dining and casinos – and it lives up to the hype! But if you’re craving adventure – or some nature – taking a day trip from Las Vegas is a great way to do just that.

Leave the crowded strip and hit the road!

Some of the best day trips are just 20 minutes away, while others will take you away the entire day from sunrise to sunset (or beyond). Whether you’re traveling solo , celebrating a birthday in Vegas with friends, as a couple or with your family, there’s something on this epic list of day trips from Las Vegas to fit every travel style .

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best day trips from Las Vegas

If you’re a visual person like I am, this map of the best places to visit near Las Vegas will help you plan your perfect adventure.

By the way, as someone who’s actively checking places off my travel bucket list , I haven’t been everywhere (yet). So I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with these things to do near Las Vegas. Enjoy!

Day trips from Las Vegas

Located in the Mojave Desert, there’s so much to see and do in the area. Here are some of the best ideas for things to do outside of Vegas!

1. Red Rock Canyon (one of the best things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles / 20 minutes

Perhaps one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s perfect for a full day of adventure away from the busy city, yet close enough for a quick drive.

One of the most popular things to do is the Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . This one-way, 13 mile drive takes you through the entire conservation area. Stop at Calico II to see the vibrant red sandstone rocks.

Bring grippy hiking shoes for the 2.2 mile hike on the Calico Tanks Trail . This fun, interactive hike requires a bit of scrambling to get to the viewpoint of the Las Vegas strip. So cool!

You’ll actually need a timed entry reservation to see the conservation area from October through May, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance! If you can’t grab a spot, consider booking a Red Rock Canyon hiking tour which includes park entry.

Of course, come prepared with enough water and high protein snacks. If you’re hiking be sure to bring the 10 essentials and a satellite communicator in case of emergency.

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

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2. Valley of Fire State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 56 miles / 48 minutes

Valley of Fire is a famous Nevada State Park, and a nature preserve area known for its breathtaking red sandstone and rock formations. It consists of 40,000 acres of Aztec sandstone.

Prehistoric remnants and unparalleled vistas are intertwined among the valley’s red rocks. There are also ancient petroglyphs that were carved into the Aztec Sandstone rock formations. These spectacular rock formations are best viewed on a sunny day, and every sunset, they illuminate the valley, making it appear they’re on fire.

There are several outdoor activities that you can do in the Valley of Fire. The park offers a short hike for you to survey the area’s scenic views.

As you explore the site, take advantage of these fascinating rock formations like the Valley of Fire Beehives, Atlatl Rock, Elephant Rock and the Fire Wave. They will surely leave you speechless in their beauty.

You can stay overnight in the Valley of Fire; various campgrounds located near this famous spot for camping enthusiasts. And reservations in advance are required, check the  park’s website  for more details.

Valley of Fire is approximately 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas; it would take you about 1 hour to get there by car. Take the I-15 north for about 35 to 40 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Head east toward the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead from Exit 75. The West Entrance Station is located in the Valley of Fire, about 17 miles away.

The best time to visit the park is in October and April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant during this period, while they are extremely hot during the summer. The park is open from sunrise until sunset.

Recommended by Christine of Guide To Daytrips

3. Kanarra Falls

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 33 minutes

At just 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, Kanarra Falls is the perfect day trip for adventure lovers. Grab your hiking boots and trekking poles and head off to this amazing slot canyon.

After arriving at the trailhead you’ll see a small restroom and ticket counter. They only allow 150 hikers a day, so it’s strongly recommended that you reserve your tickets online before arriving as no more tickets are sold on-site once the limit is reached. 

The hike itself is a moderate 3.8-mile hike directly through an epic slot canyon. Be prepared to get wet as the majority of the hike will have you walking through ankle-deep water (sometimes higher).

After about 1.6 miles you’ll see your first waterfall. If you choose to continue up the ladder, you’ll find the second waterfall about 0.3 miles later.

It will surely be a hike you won’t soon forget. Kanarra Falls is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

4. Lake Mead

Distance from Las Vegas: 31 miles / 36 minutes

Lake Mead is a wonderful afternoon or a day escape from the bustling city of Las Vegas! Located less than an hour outside of Las Vegas in Boulder, Nevada, visitors to Lake Mead are greeted with a surplus of outdoor activities sure to provide an outdoor recharge. 

For Lake Mead day trips Las Vegas, it’s recommended to drive so that visitors have flexibility to explore different parts of this natural preserve throughout the afternoon.  

Enjoy hiking, navigating slot canyons, swimming and boating at Lake Mead.  Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, and that swimming and boating beaches are separated. 

More of a relaxed afternoon can be spent driving to one of the many pull out parking spots to enjoy some views with a picnic lunch. Most of the pull out parking spots include a bathroom house.  

Visiting outside of summer months is most recommended as the Mojave Desert can heat up to 120 degrees fahrenheit during this time of year.  

A huge plus is that the natural preserve accepts the Annual National Parks Pass . Without the pass, entrance is $30 per vehicle. 

Recommended by Alyssa of An Apple a Plane

5. Zion National Park (a favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 41 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is visiting Zion National Park in Utah. Just over 2.5 hours from Vegas, Zion offers incredible views and adventures you’ll love.

The perfect Zion itinerary for one day is to take the shuttle into the Zion Scenic Drive to see the impressive canyon. If you’re up for adventure, hike The Narrows.

The Narrows is the popular hike where the canyon narrows and you can walk through the Virgin River (up to 10 miles round trip) to see the massive canyon up close as it closes in. Be sure to bring water shoes and hiking sticks for The Narrows.

Alternatively, you could get crazy awesome views on the Canyon Overlook Trail . It’s just one mile round trip, offering wide open views of the canyon with less effort.

Grab lunch or ice cream at the Zion Lodge or in Springdale, just outside the park. Or, pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the canyon! Regardless of if you’re solo, as a couple, with friends or visiting Zion with kids , it’s a fabulous adventure and perfect day trip from Las Vegas.

Just be sure to take the right hiking essentials when visiting in Zion, like good hiking shoes and plenty of water!

Note: if you’re based in or near Vegas and have or rent an RV, check out this RV road trip guide that details the road trip from Vegas to Zion then the Grand Canyon. What a fun adventure!

6. Hoover Dam

Distance from Las Vegas: 37 miles / 39 minutes

Hoover Dam from Las Vegas is a short drive, and one of the best ways to spend a day away from the city. You can rent a car and drive yourself or take a tour from Vegas . See the historic Hoover Dam, which was completed in 1936.

As a visitor to the Hoover Dam, you can park for free and walk to the viewpoint on both the Nevada and Arizona Sides. The Nevada side you can see the front of the dam. On the Arizona side, you’ll see the Colorado River and the back side of the dam.

The visitor center has information on the history and architecture of the dam. If you rent a car and drive yourself, the parking lot closest to the entrance is $10 to park, or you can walk the 0.7 miles from the free parking to get there.

One of the best ways to learn about the dam’s construction is through a Power Plant Tour. You’ll actually get to go down into the dam to see how it works!

At the time of publication, you can purchase a Guided Power Plant Tour online but not a Guided Dam Tour so if you want the most in-depth tour of the dam, you’ll need to get there early to get a tour, because it’s first come, first serve and sells out quickly.

Book it now: Hoover Dam tour from Vegas

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

7. Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter

Distance from Las Vegas: 45 minutes (flight time)

Enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without all the driving! Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas are a very efficient way to see the 4th most visited national park in the USA !

While driving to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (see #14 below) allows you to hike and see the South Rim, a helicopter tour allows you to land inside the canyon, thousands of feet below the rim.

After a 45-minute helicopter ride from Las Vegas , feel extra bougie as you toast champagne on a bluff from within the canyon. Soak in the incredible views of the massive canyon you’re standing inside of! What a bucket list experience!

Book it now: helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Vegas

More things do do near Las Vegas

Outside of the city but comfortable enough to do in a day, here are more ideas for ya. There’s so much to see in the area!

8. Emerald Cave kayaking (one of the most fun things to do outside of Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 55 miles / 58 minutes

Kayaking in the Emerald Cave is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas strip. The cave is located in the Lake Mead Recreation Area, along a calm section of the Colorado River.

Your journey to the caves will include a relaxing kayak ride along the Colorado River. The surrounding hills and cliff walls are awe-inspiring as they tower above you. 

Along the way, you can also go ashore and take a number of short hikes for a better view of the river and rock walls. These hikes will also give you a chance to see the unique flora and fauna of the area. 

The Emerald Cave itself will often get crowded, and only a few kayaks can enter at a time. The cave is shallow, giving you a chance to enter, take pictures, and then exit again within a few minutes time. 

Within the cave, you’ll see a green glowing light reflecting off of the water and onto the cave walls. This green glow is where the Emerald Cave gets its name. The best time of year to see the full emerald effect is to go in summer on a sunny day. 

To reach the caves, you can drive to Lake Mead Recreation Area and rent a kayak there, or book a half-day tour , which includes hotel pickup and drop-off services from Las Vegas. For your trip, it helps to bring the right gear , including a good backpack and water shoes . 

The tour will provide you with guidance and instruction along the way, so it’s a great option if you’re newer to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area. 

Kayaking the Emerald Cave is one of the best Lake Mead Day Trips from Las Vegas!

Book it now: Emerald Cave kayaking

Recommended by Merry of Virginia Vacation Guide

9. Mojave National Preserve

Distance from Las Vegas: 68 miles / 1 hour, 9 minutes

If you’re looking for a way to get away from Las Vegas but want somewhere with few crowds, then consider making a visit to Mojave National Preserve. In just an hour’s drive on Interstate 15 from the big city, you’ll find hiking trails, caves, and much more to explore.

First, head to Cima Road, which is home to more Joshua Trees than you’ll even be able to find within the namesake national park. These are rare trees, only growing within certain parts of the southwest.

Another one of the best things to do is to visit the Kelso Dunes. These beautiful sand dunes offer viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to stand on top of the tallest dune.

The Lava Tubes Trail offers a short hike and a unique experience in a cave. There aren’t many places where you’re able to climb directly into the tube, so this one shouldn’t be missed!

Other fun activities include seeing the cinder cones along Aiken Mine Road, hiking the Teutonia Peak Trail, and visiting the Mojave Desert Mailbox. Because you’ll be in the desert, be sure to dress comfortably to stay cool while you’re out exploring.

It’s also nice to have a high-clearance vehicle for the visit, as some roads can be pretty rough. Also, be sure to check the status of the roads, because wintertime may bring snow and poor weather conditions.

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

10. UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 25 miles / 49 minutes

Get ready for an epic adventure in Prime Valley and Hidden Valley at the McCullough Mountain Range, Nevada . This is one of the most fun day trips from Las Vegas if you’e looking for an adrenaline-filled time!

This half day UTV excursion takes you through fun, rugged desert terrain just outside of Las Vegas. You’ll get to see Hidden Valley National Monument during your excursion.

An excursion like this was one of the most fun things to do in Aruba , and I think you’ll agree it’s an awesome day trip from Vegas , too. Drivers must be 16 or older, and each UTV is fit for 2 people. Kids as young as 12 can ride with an adult, so it’s great for families with older kids, too.

Pro tip: wear clothes you can get dirty and closed toes shoes.

Pack anything you don’t want to get dirty in a dry bag with a strap and tie it down. That prevents dirt from penetrating a backpack for other cloth bag. This is the dry bag I used while UTVing and it worked great! Don’t forget to take extra water in reusable water bottles , too.

Book it now: UTV adventure near Vegas

11. Death Valley National Park (one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas for scenery)

Distance from Las Vegas: 110 miles / 1 hour, 55 minutes

Death Valley is one of the best national parks in California and a perfect day trips from Las Vegas if you are looking to escape the crowds and explore the stunning landscapes of the Mojave Desert. 

Although summers bring triple-digit temperatures to Death Valley, winter has a mild sunny weather with no snow, except for high altitudes. 

You can get to Death Valley by taking a guided tour from Las Vegas that includes major highlights of the national park or renting a car in Las Vegas . If you rent a car, you will have more freedom exploring this vast area and also enjoy stargazing at night since Death Valley boasts incredible dark skies free of light pollution.

The park has many hikes like Golden Canyon, overlooks and is also home to the lowest point in North America, Bad Water Basin, that sits at 282 feet below sea level. Since Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states, prepare to drive longer distances, as some points of the interest are as far as 50 minutes away from one another.

Book it now: Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

12. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 24 miles / 27 minutes

Some of the oldest buildings in Nevada lie right next to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area at the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This historic ranch is a fun little day trip from Las Vegas , where you can tour old buildings like a blacksmith shop and sandstone cabin.

Nestled in a picturesque setting, it’s a lesser-known attraction in the Las Vegas area , so you’ll really be able to escape the crowds. Pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to visit this state park is October through May.

The Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a great spot for beginner hikers or families and pets, too. Hike the Spring Mountain Ranch Loop trial, at just 1.5 miles and flat, it’s an easy trail for nearly any skill level.

Hours change seasonally so check before you go at the Spring Mountain Ranch website .

13. Seven Magic Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 26 miles / 27 minutes

A fun experience close to Las Vegas is the Seven Magic Mountains . These colorful stacked boulders are an art instillation that took social media by storm in 2016, thousands of visitors come to the Seven Magic Mountains annually.

It’s a free, short day trip from Las Vegas, and one worth visiting if you’re looking for something low-key to do in the area. And bonus – no extra hiking gear or picnic supplies required.😊 It’s perfect for when you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids !

Created by artist Ugo Rondinone and supported by the Nevada Museum of Art  and  Art Production Fund , this is a free attraction although donations are always welcome! Take as many photos as you desire, but please don’t damage the boulders.

Pro tip: If you want great photos with fewer people, come early in the day – just after sunrise – to avoid crowds. Also check out this guide for more free things to do in Las Vegas .

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the best things to do outside of Vegas that doesn’t take a lot of time, either.

Full day trips from Las Vegas

With 3+ hours of driving each way, these are the best day trips from Las Vegas that make a long day, but totally worth the effort! Of course if you have more time, these destinations would make great weekend trips from Las Vegas, too.

14. South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 279 miles / 4 hours, 22 minutes

If you’re looking to escape the intenseness of Las Vegas for a day and want to spend some time surrounded by incredible scenery you’ll never forget, head to  the Grand Canyon South Rim .

The Grand Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of the world and offers absolutely stunning views. The South Rim in particular is considered to be the best part with its really expansive views and is truly a sight to see.

There are many unique hikes and viewpoints such as Mather Point that you can visit at The South Rim – but note that the weather and temperature can change suddenly here so make sure to bring plenty of layers and be prepared for any weather. Woolx Merino wool layers work perfect for any season and are perfect for the Grand Canyon.

Drive time to Grand Canyon South Rim is just over 4 hours each way from Las Vegas so it’s a long day but it is definitely worth it! You can rent a car and drive yourself, or if you’d prefer someone else to do the driving you can book a Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas on a bus.

The day trips are usually around 15 hours long, starting at around 6 or 7am, and cost under $100 so good value for money! It’s best to book a Grand Canyon tour in advance as it is a popular day trip from Vegas!

Not only is The Grand Canyon one of the best day trips from Las Vegas, but the route to get there is really interesting too as you’ll get to drive along the famous Route 66!

Book it now: Grand Canyon bus tour from Vegas

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

15. Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles / 4 hours, 23 minutes

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most photographed sites along the Colorado River and a fantastic excursion for those traveling from Las Vegas.

While on the far end for a day trip, Horseshoe Bend is about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas. Located in Page Arizona, the iconic feature is a must-do for those traveling through the southwest. 

Horseshoe Bend, part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is one  top things to do in Page Arizona .  It can be done as a stop along with other activities in the area.

The trail and parking for Horseshoe Bend is managed by the city of Page, and doesn’t take any National Park or other park passes for entrance to the site. Parking for Horseshoe Bend is $10 and the site is open from sunrise to sunset daily.

For those visiting the site, the hike requires about 1.5 miles (out and back) to reach the viewpoint for the bend. There’s a small platform located at the end of the trail.

However, be sure to continue on past the viewpoint along the slick stones and you’ll be treated to some great other views of the bend without as many tourists around. You can even climb the small hill to get a better overlook of the site. 

Beyond Horseshoe Bend, there’s plenty of other things around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visit to the nearby Glen Canyon Bridge and Dam is worth a quick excursion. Visitors can view the amazing engineering feats of creating both the bridge and dam in this part of the river.

There’s also great hiking nearby such as the Hanging Gardens Hike, the Chains, and The “New Wave” which is a lovely banded sandstone area close to the glen canyon dam. 

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door

16. Bryce Canyon National Park (one of the most epic day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 259 miles / 4 hours, 3 minutes

You’ll want to get up early for this one! As a day trip, this is doable but a pretty long day. It would make a great weekend trip from Las Vegas, too.

Anyway, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the famous hoodoos, which are irregularly shaped rock spires. Witness the unique beauty of this landscape from Bryce Point or Inspiration Point.

If you’re up for hiking, try the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop , which is a fun, interactive trail. It’s 3.1 miles and rated as moderate, you’ll weave through hoodoos and witness the bright orange and red rocks up close.

Have a picnic at Sunset Point or enjoy the views at Sunrise Point, too. You can see all the Bryce Canyon National Park highlights in just one day!

17. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 186 miles / 3 hours, 8 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is a day in Joshua Tree . It takes about 3 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park, but it is worth the drive and a great way to escape the city.

Joshua Tree is best during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. In the summer, the park gets very hot, and in the winter it’s cold. However, if you’re taking a day trip in the winter, you will still experience the warmest part of the day in winter.

While in Joshua Tree, take the quick hike to Arch Rock, drive down Queen Valley Road, visit the Cholla Cactus Garden, and, of course, see all the Joshua Trees. One of the best places to find a high concentration of Joshua Trees is along Queen Valley Road or on Park Boulevard from the West Entrance Station.

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

18. Antelope Canyon (a popular tour from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 278 miles / 4 hours, 32 minutes

Las Vegas is such a fun city to explore but many people don’t realize there are amazing places to visit outside of Las Vegas. Antelope Canyon is a popular slot canyon in Page, Arizona.

The canyon is full of beautiful Navajo Sandstone that makes for some of the most stunning views you’ll find. Getting to escape from the concrete jungle of Las Vegas is a great way to refresh and enjoy some time away from the city.

If you’re planning on visiting Antelope Canyon, there are a few things you must know.

The canyon is on Navajo land and is restricted to tours by Navajo tour guides and tours are required to visit. You’ll want to book in advance to ensure you can get a tour. If you find that Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are booked, look into tours of Antelope Canyon X .

May to October get really busy, the earlier you book your tour , the better.

To do Antelope Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas, follow I-15 North through Saint George, Utah. Then take UT-9 to Hwy 59 towards Kanab, UT, where you’ll get on the US-89 East to Lake Powell and Page, Arizona. The drive is a little long, but it makes for a great adventure to one of the most beautiful slot canyons you can find!

Book it now: Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

19. Palm Springs

Distance from Las Vegas: 231 miles / 4 hours, 9 minutes

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, taking a day trip from Las Vegas to Palm Springs is an ideal way to add some fun and adventure to your travels. Though it’s situated about 4 hours away, there are so many ways to spend one day in Palm Springs !

You can explore the iconic downtown area, which features boutique shops, hip galleries, and tasty restaurants. Or, check out the original retro architecture on residential homes and hotels.

Outdoor lovers can venture out for a day hike at one of the many trails, such as Tahquitz Canyon. One can’t-miss activity for any first time visitor is the famous Palm Springs aerial tramway, which takes you up the nearby San Jacinto Mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

With so much natural beauty to explore, it’s no wonder why Palm Springs has become such a popular getaway spot for travelers from Las Vegas.

Be aware that summer is a tough time for hiking and strenuous activity in the California desert. If visiting in the summer months, I would recommend visiting one of the many pool and mineral springresorts. 

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth 

20. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 240 miles / 3 hours, 41 minutes

Did you know there are actually 2 Red Rock Canyons to escape to as a day trip from Las Vegas?

Not to be confused with the National Conservation Area just a few minutes outside of Vegas,  Red Rock Canyon State Park  is a 3.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. While it’s a long drive for a day trip, it’s doable starting before sunrise and driving back at sunset.

Located in Cantil, California, Red Rock Canyon State Park is part of the Mojave Desert. Once you’re there, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Joshua Trees and get a breathtaking view of sandstone cliffs as far as the eye can see.

Enjoy activities such as rock climbing, picnicking, easy nature walks, as well as beginner canyoneering. Best of all, you won’t find huge crowds here, so enjoy the peaceful escape from the city.

Recommended by Cassie of Cassie’s Compass

21. Grand Staircase Escalante (another favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 213 miles / 3 hours, 26 minutes

Grand Staircase Escalante is a fun and unique day trip from Las Vegas. If you’re looking to hike some really cool slot canyons, Grand Staircase is the place to do it.

A 3.5 hour drive from Vegas, there are a  few different slot canyons  located within Grand Staircase Escalante to visit. One of the most famous is Zebra Slot Canyon, a canyon that has stripes along the wall making it look like the stripes on a zebra!

Besides hiking the slot canyons in the area, there are plenty of other amazing trails to hike in this area. To get to Grand Staircase Escalante, head northeast on I-15 towards St. George, once in St. George depending on where you want to go in Grand Staircase either head towards Kanab or head towards Bryce Canyon.

The roads inside of Grand Staircase aren’t paved and a lot of the roads require you to have a 4×4 vehicle. Make sure to always check with the visitor centers nearby in Kanab and Escalante before heading out to make sure the weather and roads are safe for exploring.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

22. Alabama Hills (one of the most scenic things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 246 miles / 4 hours, 13 minutes

Alabama Hills, California is an underrated destination that’s gained in popularity over the last decade or so. A long day trip from Las Vegas, it can be done in a single day with an early morning and late night, or better yet, as a weekend getaway from Las Vegas!

With expansive views of these smooth rocky formations, there’s quite a bit to see and do in Alabama Hills. Movie Road is aptly named based on the volume of films that have been shot here. Drive down it and recognize scenes from Iron Man and Gladiator, just to name a few.

There’s plenty of hiking opportunities in Alabama Hills , too. Grab your hiking shoes and head to the famous Mobius Arch, coming in at less than one mile. Or explore views of the snow-capped mountains on the Upper Alabama Hills Trail to Cyclops Skull Arch .

Best day trips from Las Vegas

Well, that’s a wrap! The area surrounding Las Vegas is full of fun and activities for all ages. Whether you’ve got just one day trip from Vegas or have a few days to explore the area, you’ll find something amazing to do with your time!

Let’s take a look at those adventures again, in a quick list…

Places to visit near Las Vegas

• Red Rock Canyon
• Valley of Fire State Park
• Kanarra Falls
• Zion National Park
• Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter
• Emerald Cave kayaking
• Mojave National Preserve
• UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains
• Death Valley National Park
• Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
• Seven Magic Mountains
• South Rim of the Grand Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Antelope Canyon
• Palm Springs
• Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante
• Alabama Hills

Related content you might like: 20 BIG Adventure Vacations in the US Not to Miss 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States You’ll Love

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wanderwithbelle

Sunday 29th of January 2023

I love Vegas and have been there a numerous of times!! Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Welcome Belle. Thanks for your comment and visiting the blog! :)

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Vegas itself isn't really on my list of places to visit, but I'd love to do all of these daytrips!

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

Agreed! Every time I go to Vegas, I leave Vegas 🤣

Saturday 17th of December 2022

I am not a big fan of Las Vegas so I love the idea of trying some of these road trips on the next time I attend a conference in Nevada. I love the rugged landscape.

Monday 19th of December 2022

Same, same Terri! Each time I visit Vegas I have to get out 🤣 Have fun on your next non-Vegas adventure!

Interesting read. Emerald cave kayaking looks so relaxing.

Totally agree, Anukrati! I hope you get to try it sometime.

Friday 16th of December 2022

Some great ideas here, and some wonderful photos too!

Glad you found this helpful :)

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15 Best Day Trips From Las Vegas — From National Parks to the Extraterrestrial Highway

Need a break from Sin City? Here are 15 great day trips from Las Vegas.

RB/Bauer-Griffin / Contributor/Getty Images

Las Vegas is already a fantastic destination that people travel from far and wide to experience. But, after a day or two of playing at the blackjack tables, sitting by the rooftop pools , and digging into a few world-class meals, you may have a hankering for a little escape. Luckily, there are plenty of places within driving distance from Las Vegas that will make you feel like you’re a whole world away.

"Our destination is surrounded by state and national parks for day trips, sightseeing, and great hikes, or if you’re short on time, you can always take a helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon, in under an hour." H. Fletch Brunelle, the vice president of marketing at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, told Travel + Leisure .

Brunelle told T+L the greater Vegas area has a plethora of water-related activities that are great for summer months. "A great way to cool off in the summer is to take advantage of the many watersport activities," he said. "Lake Las Vegas provides family fun with a 40,000-square-foot floating Aqua Park. Watersport activities are also available at Lake Mead or you can venture to Laughlin for water fun on the river."

Here are 15 of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

Grand Canyon

Peter Unger/Getty Images

The Grand Canyon is one of America’s greatest treasures, and it happens to be located within driving distance of Las Vegas. However, the drive can take about five hours, so instead, we suggest splurging on a helicopter tour instead. Companies like Maverick can get you to the Grand Canyon for a flyover and even bring you back for a little aerial sightseeing over the Las Vegas Strip all in one glorious trip.

Westend61/Getty Images

Check out one of man’s most impressive engineering marvels by driving just 45 minutes outside the city to see the Hoover Dam . Visitors can tour the whopping 726-foot tall dam that spans the Colorado River and learn all about how it generates power for thousands of people.

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Want more man-made fun? Drive just 40 minutes from Vegas to see Lake Mead, the largest man-made reservoir in the United States. Guests here can explore the perimeter by bike or take to the water on a boat tour to cool off (but be sure to check the water levels before you go).

Mount Charleston

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Sure, for the most part, Las Vegas is a pretty hot place all year round, but in the winter months, skiers and snowboarders can make the one-hour drive to Mount Charleston for a little snow-filled adventure. According to Vegas.com , it even sees an impressive 240 inches of average snowfall a year, making it a prime place to visit if you’re a powder hound. "Higher elevation means lower temps through the trails and hikes at Mount Charleston, which offer great outdoor exercise and breathtaking views," said Brunelle.

Valley of Fire

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Seek out one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful scenes at the Valley of Fire , a state park just one hour outside Vegas. The landscape looks more like a watercolor painting made with neutral tones thanks to the ever-shifting sandstone that gives the area its distinct swirls. Visitors can also spot a few petroglyphs left over from several millennia ago if they look hard enough.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

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Those seeking more towering stones can find them at Cathedral Gorge State Park, about a 2.5-hour drive from the Strip. The state park offers visitors more chances to explore, including its plentiful hiking trails and expansive caves. Get the best view by walking The Millers Point Trail , a short trail that ends with a spectacular view.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

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Red Rock Canyon is perhaps the most classic and popular day trip from Vegas, and with good reason. The national conservation area is just a quick 20-minute drive from the city and offers visitors gorgeous hiking trails and vistas galore. And, if you come in spring, you could be treated to a wildflower bloom unlike any other.

Magic Mountains

Those seeking a little outdoor art and culture can find it about 30 minutes away at Seven  Magic Mountains . "[For those driving in] from California, a perfect stop on the way into Las Vegas is capturing a photo at Seven Magic Mountains: the bright neon boulders stacked in the middle of the desert make for a great social media photo opp," said Brunelle.

The colorful art installation made out of boulders was created and opened to the public in 2016 by artist Ugo Rondinone. The structures, according to the website , are meant to symbolize the space “mid-way between the natural and the artificial.”

The Extraterrestrial Highway

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UFOs and aliens are getting a lot of attention at the moment, so what better time to make a quick day trip to Area 51 than now? Lean into the subculture fun by visiting the kitschy cafes and shops like the famed The Little A Le Inn Bar and Motel and taking a drive down the Extraterrestrial Highway .

Bryce Canyon National Park

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Driving to Bryce Canyon and back can be a bit of a haul at four hours each way. But, those who are dedicated will be rewarded by getting to spend time in one of the most beautiful national parks in America. Come for a hike or camp overnight so you can look up at the dazzling stars blanketing Utah’s night sky.

Mojave National Preserve

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Make the one-hour drive from Vegas and cross over the California border to visit the Mojave National Preserve . A visit here feels like you’re being transported to another planet, filled with massive sand dunes, towering Joshua trees, and plenty of hiking trails for exploration. Don’t miss Kelso Depot Visitor Center, a one-time railway station dating back to the early 20th century. 

Horseshoe Bend

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If you’ve spent any time on Instagram, odds are you’ve come across a photo of Horseshoe Bend . It’s a lengthy drive from Las Vegas at about 4.5 hours, making it a prime place for an overnight trip. Located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the Colorado River literally bends around a massive rock formation, creating a gorgeous horseshoe-shaped curve in the river. Get your photos, but remain cautious and respectful of boundaries put in place by the National Park Service.

Death Valley National Park

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Make your way back to California once more for a visit to Death Valley National Park , located  2.5 hours from the city. The massive park boasts some of the hottest recorded temperatures on Earth , so make sure to plan your trip accordingly. While there, check out the salt flats and the racing rocks for two fantastic scenes. And, if you can, stay until the sun goes down and look up at the stars, as Death Valley is well known for its delightfully dark skies and brighter-than-bright stars.

Willow Beach

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Who says the desert can’t have a beach? Willow Beach , located an hour from Las Vegas, offers visitors a watery respite from the heat. Come dive into the waters, take a paddle boat ride, or just enjoy a day on the shore.

Zion National Park

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Head out for one more exploration to Zion National Park , another 2.5-hour drive from Vegas. The park is known for its deep canyons and jagged cliff sides, which you can climb down to wade through Virgin River on a hike along The Narrows. Find more water at the Emerald Pools, where you’ll be rewarded with lush landscapes on all sides.

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Las Vegas

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18 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas You Can’t Miss

Las Vegas is the realm of gambling, partying, and extravagance. But when you need a breather, day trips from Las Vegas whisk you away from the neon and into breathtaking canyons, nature reserves, and mountain resorts where the air is fresh and the scenery is phenomenal.

The following Las Vegas day trips vary from destinations that are located less than an hour from The Strip to dense national parks and unique natural wonders further afield.

Some options even take you out of Nevada and into neighboring states of California, Utah, and Arizona. It all depends on how much you are prepared to drive and what sights rank at the top of your wishlist!

To help you make the most of your time in Sin City, this guide curates the 18 best day trips from Las Vegas by car that you can do independently as well as via an organized tour. Buckle your seatbelt and let’s get started!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

18 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

1. valley of fire state park.

Drive time: 45-60 minutes  Distance: 55 miles (88 km) Entrance fee: $10 vehicle fee ($15 for non-Nevada vehicles) 

Located northwest of downtown Vegas and formed over the past 150 million years, the Valley of Fire is the oldest state park in Nevada. This geologic wonderland is characterized by rust-hued and fiery red “Aztec” sandstone crags that were caused by natural erosion.

Taking a day trip to Valley of Fire State Park is definitely one of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling ! You can visit the park as either a half-day or a full-day trip but I would firmly recommend making this a complete day out.

Especially if you’re planning to take lots of photos! You will come across many amazing Valley of Fire photography spots and you’re going to need a full day to explore all of them.

You can drive around the main scenic road that cuts through the heart of the park and tick off a lot of the viewpoints and formations from the parking lots dotted around Mouse’s Tank Road (also known as White Domes Road).

But one of the best things to do in Valley of Fire State Park is hiking and there are dozens of trails to choose between. Consult my guide to these easy Valley of Fire hikes such as the Fire Wave and White Domes Trail and you’ll see that you can cover a lot of ground in a day trip.

The Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas that combines an equal share of driving and exploring on foot. If you are short on time, plan to visit as early as possible in the day before the park heats up or arrange to be there to catch the sunset.

For those of you traveling without a car, you can join a small-group Valley of Fire Tour which includes round transport from Las Vegas as well as entry to the park.

For those seeking a day of hiking, you can join an adventurous Valley of Fire Guided Hiking Tour from Las Vegas which gives you the option to choose easy, moderate, or difficult hiking conditions.

The park is open seven days a week, every day of the year, and is accessible between the hours of sunrise and sunset. The Valley of Fire Visitor’s Center is situated at the junction of the Valley of Fire Highway and Mouse’s Tank Road.

2. Red Rock Canyon

Drive time: 20 minutes  Distance: 17 miles (27.3 km) Entrance fee: $15 per vehicle or $5 per person/cyclist 

Located a short drive west of The Strip, Red Rock Canyon is one of the easiest day trips from Vegas that you can undertake independently or as part of a tour, so it’s a worthy addition to any Las Vegas itinerary .

The Red Rock Canyon features stunning rock formations in vivid colors. The best way to explore the park is by following an extraordinary 13-mile (20.1 km) scenic drive that forms a loop through the conservation area and is dotted with overlooks and laybys where you can pull over and admire the scenery.

If you want to stretch your legs then there are around 30 hiking trails that vary from easy 2-mile hikes such as the Moenkopi Loop to more challenging Calico Hills and La Madre Spring. Besides hiking, you can plan rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain and road biking, and picnic areas if you have more time. 

Due to its close proximity to Las Vegas, you can visit the Red Rock Canyon for a half-day. But it’s easy to turn this into a full day out if you want to hit the hiking trails or add on any of the additional activities mentioned above. 

It’s phenomenal at sunset so if you opt for a half-day, consider timing it so that you can witness golden hour from the peak of Pine Creek Canyon. The Red Rock Canyon Sunset Tour is perfect if you’re getting around without your own car.

The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center on Scenic Loop Drive is open daily, 9 am-4.30 pm (9 am-12 pm on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). Timed entry reservations are required for the scenic drive between the winter months of 1 October-31 May, with slots offered between the hours of 8 am-5 pm. You can book these online in advance.

It is also possible to book a Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon Day Trip . This combines these first two Las Vegas day trips and is ideal for travelers without a car or those on limited time. 

3. Mount Charleston

Drive time: 45 minutes  Distance: 40 miles (64.3 km) Entrance fee: Free

If the heat of Sin City is getting to you, then the resort town of Mount Charleston is one of the best day trips from Vegas to wind down in cooler climes!

Located northwest of Las Vegas within the Spring Mountains, Mount Charleston is named for the nearby Charleston Peak which, standing at a height of 11,916 feet (3,632 meters) is the highest point in Clark County.

The town itself has an altitude of 7,500 feet (2,286 meters) and you’ll notice how the landscape turns to lush green as you ascend through the valley. The Spring Mountains are regarded as a “sky island” as they provide an oasis for over 25 endemic plant and animal species.

If you visit Las Vegas during the winter months then you stand a chance of seeing the valley covered in snow – and having the option to sled down the mountains.

If you are short on time then you can visit Mount Charleston for a half-day and experience the scenic drive through the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. But if you want to turn this into a full day out, fling your hiking boots into the boot of your rental and tackle some of the trails that dissect the mountains.

Easy, short trails include the Eagle’s Nest Loop and Echo/Little Falls while the Mount Charleston National Recreation Trail/South Loop and Cathedral Rock Trail are strenuous hikes.

If you want to reach the Charleston Peak summit then you can follow the difficult North Loop to Summit. Downloadable maps are available to help you plan the route.

The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway is open 9 am-4 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays where staff can provide details about the hikes. 

For travelers without a car, you can join a day trip to Mount Charleston Resort from Las Vegas which includes your travel up the mountain and a guide to provide hiking advice.

4. Seven Magic Mountains

Drive time: 30 minutes  Distance: 26 miles (42 km) Entrance fee: Free

The Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation created by the Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. Seven stacks of vibrantly painted rocks are balanced in the desert just south of Las Vegas with each monument registering a height of around 30 feet (9.1 meters).

Rondinone carefully chose this location as it is physically and symbolically positioned between nature – the desert and mountains – and the mega-cities of Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

The Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most Instagrammable places in Las Vegas and is perfect for content creators as well as art enthusiasts. 

As it’s quite far to drive just for the art installation which only takes 10 minutes or so to explore and snap photos of, you might want to consider combining this with one of the other day trips from Las Vegas such as the nearby Sloan Canyon.

Towards the end of this blog, you’ll hear about the Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park. The Seven Magic Mountains is a great stop off on the way back from either.

If you do not have a car, then you can book a tour that combines the Seven Magic Mountains with Red Rock Canyon , with the Las Vegas Sign , or with Hoover Dam .

You can visit the Seven Magic Mountains at any time between sunrise and sunset although the earlier the better in order to avoid the crowds.

5. Sloan Canyon

Drive time: 25 minutes Distance: 13 miles (20 km) Entrance fee: Free

Home to over 300 rock panels with approximately 1,700 petroglyphs from the Puebloan, Patayan, and Southern Paiute people, the Sloan Petroglyph Site at Sloan Canyon is one of the most significant cultural resources in Nevada.

There is a well-marked hiking trail that takes you through the site in the west of the canyon and accounts for 4.1 miles (6.6 km) in length. 

The conservation area covers a whopping 48,438 acres of land. Beyond the Sloan Petroglyph Site, the park contains volcanic peaks that tower above 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) in elevation.

Within the 14,763 acres of the North McCullough Wilderness, there are ancient past lava flows and shards of obsidian. Sloan Canyon is also the home of the Mojave Green Rattlesnake so take care!

Located south of Henderson, you can visit the Sloan Petroglyph Site for a half day. If you want to spend a full day at Sloan Canyon, then you might also want to visit the northeast segment which has additional hiking trails including Shadow Canyon and the McCullough Hills. The trails are marked on this hiking map .

Access to Sloan Canyon is permitted from 1 October to 31 May, daily, from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, or from 1 June to 30 September on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. 

Despite its close proximity to Vegas, Sloan Canyon is strangely off the radar for a lot of tourists so it’s great if you are looking for someplace offbeat. With no public transport or tours serving the canyon at present, Sloan Canyon is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas by car. 

6. Hoover Dam

Drive time: 40 minutes  Distance: 40 miles (64.3 km) Entrance fee: $15 to enter to dam exhibition site or free to view it externally 

Hoover Dam is one of the most iconic man-made sights in the Nevada Desert, right on the cusp with Arizona.

The structure was constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression with its purpose being to tame the Colorado River. It also provides irrigation water to the local farm fields as well as water and power to major cities in the Southwest.

Now that this remarkable feat of engineering has morphed into a top tourist site, there are several viewpoints scattered around the dam as well as a visitor’s center where you can fully understand the history and significance of the dam.

There are also wonderful views from the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge if you want to skip the admission charges and just scope it out from across the river. 

Besides being one of the classic day trips from Las Vegas by car, the Hoover Dam is also a staple of a Southwest United States road trip. Luxury seekers can even book helicopter flights to see it from above!

If you do not have your own method of transport then there are plenty of service providers to take you out to the dam. The Hoover Dam Express Shuttle or Deluxe Tour gives you the option of a half or full-day visit which includes transfers and guide service.

Alternatively, you can book a Grand Canyon West Bus Tour with Hoover Dam Stop which only includes a photo stop at the dam on the way to one of the most famous natural wonders in the country.

7. Lake Mead

Drive time: 30 minutes  Distance: 25 miles (40.2 km) Entrance fee: $25 vehicle fee (free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

Continuing its course eastwards to Colorado from the Gulf of Mexico, the Colorado River briefly intersects with the arresting blue waters of Lake Mead. In fact, Lake Mead is a reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam.

The huge body of water covers 247 square miles (640 km2) and accounts for North America’s largest national recreation zone. It is possible to swim in the cobalt blue waters and there are 9 hiking trails that enable you to explore the canyons and rock formations.

The trailheads are scattered along the western (Nevada-side) of the lake and there is a handy trail guide that shares the starting points and provides background on the walks. If you visit during the summer months then hiking is not recommended due to the sizzling temperatures. 

Lake Mead is one of the best day trips from Vegas if you have a car as the place is not easily accessible without your own means of transport. With beautiful swimming spots, beaches, and campgrounds, it’s perfect for families and relaxing days out.

I recommend combining a trip to Lake Mead with Hoover Dam and turning it into a full day out. The Lake Mead Visitor Center is situated in the southwest corner of the lake and is open seven days a week, 9 am-4.30 pm.

8. Eldorado Canyon

Drive time: 45 minutes Distance: 45 miles (72.4 km) Entrance fee: Subject to what activities you pick 

The Eldorado Canyon and Techatticup Mine sit south of Boulder City off I-95 and comprise a series of abandoned mines, a ghost town, and scenic walks along the Colorado River.

Visiting the historic town is like stepping into a Western film, with wooden saloons, costumed folk, and – if you’re not too skeptical – wandering ghosts! Tour guides are on hand to take you down into the disused mines for tours, fill you in on the grisly past, and share details about the resident spooks.

The whole area is brimming with backdrops for photos including rusty trucks, plane wrecks, retro gas stations, and industrial relics. In fact, Eldorado Canyon has made several appearances as a movie backdrop.

Despite its theme park facade, Eldorado Canyon has a fascinating and dark history. Because of its remote setting, vigilantism became the law of the land and murder was commonplace.

The Ghost Town Wild West Adventures Day Trip is a great option if you’re without wheels as it involves round transfers from Vegas, a tour service, photo ops, and lunch. You’ll see a few other ghost towns in the region and cruise along the Historic Route 66. Adventurous souls might prefer this Eldorado Canyon ATV and Gold Mine Trip .

With its family-friendly appeal, history, and adrenaline, Eldorado Canyon is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas for every type of traveler and is awesome for groups. If you visit independently then you can choose to visit as a half-day trip.

9. Mojave Desert

Drive time: 1 hour Distance: 63 miles (101.4 km)  Entrance fee: Free

Located within the Mojave National Preserve among the ranges of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Mojave Desert is one of the driest parts of the United States. The preserve covers 1.6 million acres and offers options for hiking, horseback riding, and 4-wheel driving. 

In addition to the Mojave National Preserve, some of the best West Coast national parks such as the Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, and Lake Mead National Recreational Area are all part of the same stretch of desert.

Comprising xeric desert land, the landscape is arid with harsh conditions and haunting landscapes setting the tone. It’s characterized by its vast swathes of sand dunes, cinder cone volcanoes, Joshua trees, and even wildflowers during the spring season.

Highlights of one of the most visually spectacular Las Vegas day trips include driving Cima Road, the Joshua trees, tackling the Kelso dunes hiking trail, and touring the Mitchell Caverns. You can also visit one of the most peculiarly named towns in the United States: Zzyzx, formerly Soda Springs. 

Easy hikes that you can factor into your day trip include the Hole-in-the-Wall Nature Trail, Lava Tube, and the Rings Loop. Trail advice is available online to help you plan.

The Mojave Desert is open 24-hours a day, 365-days a year although you’ll want to stay clear of the hiking trails after sunset. As the area is colossal, you will need to make this a full-day trip.

Car camping is permitted in the three official campgrounds while there are also a further 300 rustic campsites in case you fancy spending a night in the wilderness. 

10. Area 51

Drive time: 2 hours to Rachel Distance: 148 miles (238.2 km) Las Vegas to Rachel Entrance fee: Subject to the tour price

Area 51 is the classified United States Air Force (USAF) facility located in the Nevada desert which is a subject of conspiracy theories about aliens, UFOs, and dubious activities. The specific location, somewhere near the town of Rachel, is off-limits to tourists so it is not possible to visit Area 51 independently.  

The good news is that it is possible to experience the base of one of the top-secret day trips from Las Vegas as a part of a tour. 

This Area 51 Full-Day Tour from Las Vegas starts with a trip to see the airline that “doesn’t exist” at McCarran International Airport before whisking you away to the desolate patch of desert off the Extraterrestrial Highway.

This day out comes with heaps of stories about the base as well as photo opportunities with alien artifacts, the mysterious dry lake, “photography is prohibited” signs, Indian petroglyphs, and the infamous Black Mailbox.

11. Death Valley National Park

Drive time: 2 hours Distance: 126 miles (202.8 km) Entrance fee: $30 (valid for 7 days, free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

Another of the United States’s driest tourist destinations, the Death Valley National Park is awash with Martian-like landscapes and extreme temperatures.

Steady drought and record summer heats make Death Valley one of the most dangerous places on earth yet winter brings snow and when rain does strike the terrain, it leaves beautiful wildflowers in its wake.

The national park spans 3 million acres of designated wilderness as well as hundreds of miles of backcountry routes. The park contains a diverse variety of terrain, heritage spots, flora, and fauna.

Highlights of Death Valley National Park include the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artist’s Drive, Badwater Basin, and such viewpoints as Zabriskie Point and Artist’s Palette. Although the park is huge, spending one day in Death Valley is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights!

Most of the hiking trails involve clambering up canyons, inching across salt flats, or scaling ridges. There are options ranging from easy 1-mile (1.6 km) walks to the challenging 14-mile (22.5 km) Telescope Peak.

Hiking is only permitted between October and May due to the soaring temperatures making this one of the best Vegas day trips for winter.

Death Valley National Park is accessible with or without your own vehicle. This Full Day Death Valley Group Tour squeezes in a generous amount of the park and lets you tick off the major highlights of the park.  

Alternatively, the Death Valley Trekker Tour includes a detour via Area 51 before entering the national park via Hell’s Gate.

12. Joshua Tree National Park

Drive time: 3.5 hours Distance: 218 miles (350.8 km) Entrance fee: $30 per vehicle (free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

The Joshua Tree National Park sits within the Mojave Desert south of the Mojave National Preserve in the state of California. It is a vital component of the desert ecosystem as it provides a safe habitat for resident birds, mammals, insects, and lizards.

The park is made up of hiking trails of varying ability and length, with some being suitable to attempt during the summer months, only you would have to hit the trail before 9 am.

The Joshua Tree Visitor Center is located just off the Twentynine Palms Highway and is open daily, 7.30 am-5 pm. You can pick up maps and seek hiking advice here prior to entering the park. Although the park is open 365 days a year, opportunities to get out and explore on foot during the summer are limited due to the heat.

If you want to be chauffeured around the park in style while learning about the flora, fauna, geology, and history of the park, consider booking the Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour . A heads up that this tour departs from the Palm Desert, not Las Vegas, so you still have to get to the Palm Desert with your own car.

As there is a long drive involved to reach the Joshua Tree National Park, you will need to allow an entire day for one of the most ambitious day trips from Vegas. However, since the park is quite small, spending one day in Joshua Tree National Park is sufficient enough to see the highlights.

13. Zion National Park

Drive time: 2.5 hours Distance: 160 miles (257.5 km) Entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days, free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

Zion National Park is situated northeast of Las Vegas in the southwest corner of Utah along the edge of the Colorado Plateau. The crown jewel of the park is the narrow slot canyon which features steep sandstone cliffs in pink, red, and orange hues dotted with crystal clear pools of water. 

Zion National Park is extremely popular and is perfectly designed to welcome tourists with hiking trails and adventure activities. Short hikes are accessible from the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, with the Emerald Pools, Angel’s Landing, and the Riverside Walk offering some of the finest scenery.

If you decide to camp overnight then you can tackle longer, moderate hikes.

This 1-hour White Mountain Horseback Tour invites you to explore the slot canyon from a different perspective. Alternatively, you can indulge your inner daredevil with this Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour which takes you off-road to a privately accessed slot canyon that few visitors will get to see.

It is also possible to combine Zion National Park with the next of the Las Vegas day trips, Bryce Canyon. This Zion and Bryce Canyons Small Group Tour includes transport for the entire day as well as food, drink, and a tour guide who will take you off the beaten path.

Zion National Park is open every day of the year with the visitor centers being staffed between 8 am-5 pm.

Important info: Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone while Nevada is in the Pacific Time Zone, therefore Las Vegas is 1 hour behind Zion National Park.

14. Bryce Canyon National Park

Drive time: 4 hours  Distance: 260 miles (418 km) Entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

Bryce Canyon National Park is the neighbor of Zion, located around an hour’s drive from the slot canyon. It is distinguished by its massive concentration of “hoodoos” – irregular columns of rock.

Erosion in the area has led to the formation of the “Grand Staircase” – a string of colorful cliffs that connect the Bryce Canyon with Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon.

Bryce Canyon Road weaves its way past all the hoodoos and to be honest, you will see enough without even getting out of your car. After passing through the towns of Bryce and Bryce Canyon City, the road culminates at Yovimpa Point which provides an incredible 360-degree view.

Along the way, you can stop at various overlooks such as Piracy Point, Bryce Natural Bridge, and Black Birch Canyon to soak in the surroundings. 

As Bryce Canyon requires a long drive, it’s highly advisable to visit it in combination with Zion using the Zion and Bryce Canyons Small Group Tour . Otherwise, it’s a substantial drive to undertake unless you decide to stay overnight. 

If you do have time then there are hiking trails that you can add to your itinerary. The shortest hikes take around one hour with options available to take you down into the canyons and along the rims.

Bryce Canyon National Park is open every day of the year. The visitor center is located in Bryce Canyon City and is open daily, 8 am-4.30 pm.

Important info: Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone while Nevada is in the Pacific Time Zone, therefore Las Vegas is 1 hour behind Bryce Canyon.

15. Dixie National Forest

Drive time: 3 hours Distance: 182 miles (293 km) Entrance fee: Free

Dixie National Forest occupies almost 2 million acres of land and stretches for close to 170 miles (274 km) across southern Utah – straddling the divide between the Great Basin and the Colorado River.

This gigantic forest is split into four geographic areas of varying elevations. Sparse, desert-type plants dot the lower levels with pinyon pine and juniper dominating the mid-elevations and aspen and spruce marking the upper sections.

Boulder Mountain, one of the largest high-elevation plateaus in the United States, is dotted with hundreds of small lakes 10,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level.

As Dixie National Forest is one of the Vegas day trips that requires a longer drive, you will need to plan in advance which parts of the park you visit.

The Cedar Breaks National Monument features a scenic high-altitude drive that offers sweeping views across the canyons, mountains, and forest. You will see the stripes in the rocks caused by erosion and find short hiking trails such as the Ramparts Trailhead which take around one hour to complete. Note that the passage is only open from May until October.

North of Cedar Breaks, Brian Head is a ski resort with yet more exceptional views of the scenery. 

Dixie National Forest is open every day of the year and offers spectacular views throughout all four seasons. However, as certain roads are closed during the winter months you will need to prepare your route in advance.

There are visitor centers located at both Cedar Breaks National Monument and Brian Head. 

Important info: Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone while Nevada is in the Pacific Time Zone, therefore Las Vegas is 1 hour behind Dixie National Forest.

16. Grand Canyon

Drive time: 2 hours to the West Rim or 4 hours to the South Rim Distance: 126 miles (202 km) to the West Rim or 273 miles (440 km) to the South Rim Entrance fee: $39 per person for the West Rim or $35 per vehicle for the South Rim (valid for 7 days, free with the America the Beautiful Pass )

The Grand Canyon is one of the classic icons of the United States, located in northern Arizona. It is believed that it was formed around 5/6 million years ago when the Colorado River sliced a channel through the layers of rock.

It measures over 270 miles (435 km) in length, 18 miles (29 km) in width, and 1 mile (1.6 km) in depth.

This mile-deep gorge actually has 4 different parts that you can visit: the South Rim, Grand Canyon West, Grand Canyon East, and the North Rim.

Grand Canyon South Rim

What many people refer to as “the true Grand Canyon” is the South Rim, which is the most visited part of the canyon. It’s quite far away from Las Vegas though (more than a 4-hour drive), which makes it hard to visit as a day trip.

It’s best to spend at least 2 full days at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon but if your heart is set on getting a glimpse of this part of the canyon, you can of course still visit it in one day.

In this case, I would highly recommend booking a South Rim bus tour from Las Vegas to avoid driving 8+ hours in one day.

One of the unmissable spots at the South Rim is Mather Point which offers great views of the canyon. If you’re up for some hiking, you can check out both the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trail.

In case you’re visiting with your family, you can’t miss the Grand Canyon Village and the Junior Ranger Program which is one of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon with kids .

Grand Canyon West Rim

Grand Canyon West is the closest part to Las Vegas so if you’re not keen on driving (or sitting on the bus) for 8 hours, this is your best bet. It’s important to note that the west rim is located on Hualapai Indian Tribal Lands and it’s not part of the Grand Canyon National Park, therefore it has a separate entrance fee.

You can easily spend a whole day at the West Rim exploring the views and splashing out on adrenaline activities. The Grand Canyon Skywalk at Eagle Walk is accessible for a fee and means that you get to walk 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) above the canyon floor. 

As the skywalk is popular, it is worth securing your tickets in advance. With this Grand Canyon West Rim bus tour , you have the option to include the skywalk in the tour and it also includes a bonus stop at the Hoover Dam Memorial Bridge for photos.

If you’re not short on dollars, then this Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Champagne is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Important info: Arizona doesn’t apply daylight saving time while Nevada does, so Las Vegas might be 1 hour behind Grand Canyon. Make sure to always check the local times in advance!

17. Antelope Canyon

Drive time: 4.5 hours Distance: 279 miles (449 km) Entrance fee: Subject to which tour you’re attending

Nearing the end of my list of day trips from Vegas, Antelope Canyon is another of the more ambitious as it requires a long day behind the wheel unless you elect to join a tour which is advisable.

Antelope Canyon is a sandstone slot canyon situated on Navajo land, Arizona. It has been shaped by millions of years of erosion from water and wind and was named for the herds of pronghorn antelope that used to rove the area.

Antelope Canyon includes two different sections: Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Antelope Canyon. Both canyons are open to the public but they can only be visited with a Najavo guide, therefore you have to book a tour in advance. A tour usually last for 1-1.5 hours so it’s actually possible to visit both canyons in one day if you time it right!

With it’s upside down “V” shape, Upper Antelope Canyon is the most popular one to visit. If you visit in the middle of the day, you might be lucky to catch the beautiful light rays shining through the cracks!

Tours to Upper Antelope Canyon usually sell out pretty fast. If this is the case, you can opt to visit the Lower Antelope Canyon instead! This canyon has the shape of a “V” which means it’s more open, therefore easier to photograph. As a bonus, tours cost a lot less compared to Upper Antelope Canyon as well.

I’ve visited both canyons during our Southwest USA road trip and actually I ended up liking Lower Antelope Canyon a lot better!

Alternatively, if both canyons are fully sold out or if you’re looking for a quieter experience, you can check out Canyon X . This is a relatively newly opened canyon with only one tour operator offering guided tours.

Important info: Arizona doesn’t apply daylight saving time while Nevada does, so Las Vegas might be 1 hour behind Antelope Canyon. Make sure to always check the local times in advance!

18. Horseshoe Bend

Drive time: 4.5 hours  Distance: 275 miles (443 km) Entrance fee: $10 per vehicle

Horseshoe Bend is a remarkable viewpoint that overlooks the Colorado River on a curve of the waterway and is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

It’s incredible as the blue of the river is juxtaposed with the ruby, scarlet, and rust-colored sandstone cliffs that frame the water. There isn’t much hiking involved here, it’s just a short 1.5 miles (2.4 km) out and back stroll from the parking lot which makes it accessible to everyone.

However, bear in mind that there is zero shelter at the viewpoint and you’ll need tonnes of water and a sunhat. If possible, try and coincide your visit with sunset. 

As Horseshoe Bend is located a 10-minute drive from Antelope Canyon, it makes sense to combine these day trips from Las Vegas as one. Tours are available to take you out to the sites from Vegas and save the long drive. Together, the canyon and viewpoint are the dream destinations for photographers!

This Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour with Pickup includes travel, lunch, admission fees, and a Navajo guide. 

Important info: Arizona doesn’t apply daylight saving time while Nevada does, so Las Vegas might be 1 hour behind Horseshoe Bend. Make sure to always check the local times in advance!

Map of the Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations mentioned in this article. A yellow star marks Las Vegas on the map while the Las Vegas day trips are marked with their respesctive numbers.

As you can see, some of the best day trips from Las Vegas are quite close to each other so you can easily combine them and tackle two (or three!) destinations in one day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Planning a trip to Nevada?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Nevada. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• The Perfect 5 Day Las Vegas Itinerary for Adventure Lovers
• 35 Fun Things to Do in Vegas Besides Gambling
• Top 12 Best Las Vegas Instagram Spots for Epic Photos
• 21 Best Las Vegas Hotels with Strip Views
• 18 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas You Can’t Miss
• 114 Amazing Las Vegas Captions for Instagram
• A Slice of Italy in Las Vegas: The Venetian Las Vegas Hotel Review
• Best Gamble Free Hotel in Vegas: Four Seasons Las Vegas Hotel Review

Valley of Fire State Park:

• 17 Best Things to Do in Valley of Fire in One Day
• 15 Best Valley of Fire Photography Spots You Can’t Miss
• 8 Easy Valley of Fire Hikes You Can’t Miss

Read about more US States: California | Illinois | Massachusetts | Maine | New Hampshire | New York | Vermont

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17 Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 17 Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas

For those looking to get out of the city, there are countless day trips from Las Vegas. Whether you’re looking to explore the surrounding national parks or visit a nearby ghost town, our detailed guide will offer all the information you need to plan. 

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve definitely heard of the infamous Sin City before. Las Vegas is an incredible city with loads to do and see —even if you’re traveling on a budget . As a massive tourist destination, the city is constantly swarming with activities, lights and life. However, just a short distance outside the city, you’ll be able to escape the bright lights and find both solitude and adventure. Las Vegas is surrounded by spectacular landscapes, canyons and rivers. There are endless hiking opportunities in the nearby areas and a rich history to uncover. We’ve put together a list of quick, easy and totally worthwhile day trips from Las Vegas for you to explore because every once in a while you need a little break from the Vegas Strip! What’s even better? All the day trips we’ve included are under three hours driving time from the city, making these perfect adventures to fit into your travel plans as you can easily drive there and be back in time to put a penny in the slots or catch a glitzy show.  

Psst! If you have more time , be sure to check out our bucket list of  cool things to do in Las Vegas (besides gambling!).

Before we get to the good stuff, we have a few helpful resources we wanted to share with you…

America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass

Many of the destinations on this list charge an entrance fee and those fees can stack up. For this reason, we’d highly encourage you to look into getting an annual park pass.

For just $80 per year, you can purchase the America the Beautiful park pass . This pass grants you free access to all of the U.S. National Parks . 

Plus it also covers your entrance to over 2,000 natural, historical, and recreational sites across the United States (including Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead Recreation Area from this list!).  

If you still need convincing, check out our article: America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass: Is it Worthwhile?

Getting a rental car in Las Vegas

Having your own vehicle when visiting will give you a lot more freedom to explore the best day trips from Las Vegas. 

We personally like using Discover Cars when we rent vehicles around the world, as they gather options from all sorts of rental companies in one place. It makes it really easy to compare prices and vehicles so you can determine which is the best option for you.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

Don’t let a trip to Vegas break the bank! Check out our ultimate guide to Las Vegas on a budget .

Now let’s get to it, shall we…

1. Valley of Fire

• At a glance: explore the oldest state park in Nevada, surrounded by ancient Aztec sandstone and prehistoric rock formations
• Distance from Las Vegas: 47 miles, 45 minutes

Appropriately named, the Valley of Fire is splashed with hues of campfire: bright reds, crisp oranges and vibrant pinks. Whether you decide to take a drive through the park or spend some time hiking, you’ll be truly awe-struck by the infinite beauty of this place. Since the Aztec sandstone within the park dates back to the Jurassic period, you’re literally walking alongside ancient history. There are also preserved petroglyphs (aka: ancient wall carvings)  from over 2,000 years ago. 

We don’t know about you, but that just gives us the chills (in a good way)! 

Valley of Fire is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas as it’s less than an hour away from the Strip. We recommend (as always ) taking the scenic route past Lake Mead—another noteworthy stop (see #7 on this list)! 

There are two routes to take within the park, but for a day trip we recommend taking Mouse’s Tank Road . There are many places to stop along the way to visit some of the famous rock formations . 

There’s plenty of wildlife to spot such as roadrunners, bighorn sheep and desert tortoises so keep your eyes peeled for these desert dwelling creatures.

This roadway also offers plenty of turn offs where you can embark on a hike or two. In fact, Valley of Fire is one of the best destinations for hiking near Las Vegas . 

While there are many choices, the Seven Wonders Loop seems like a reasonable pick for a day trip as the 2.3-mile loop only takes about an hour and is relatively easy. On this hike you’ll witness so much goreous-ness you’ll think you stepped into a literal fairy tale.

Cost: It costs $10 per vehicle to enter the park which you can pay upon arrival. No reservations are required ahead of time. 

While the park is technically open all-year round, certain hikes are likely to close in summer due to the high temperatures; it is best to avoid traveling here in the heat of summer. 

Psst! Have you considered getting an annual pak pass?

2. The Grand Canyon

• At a glance: get up close and personal with the largest canyon in North America
• Distance from Las Vegas: 125 miles, 2 hours

In around two hours, you can easily hop on over to the world-famous Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. While some parts of the Grand Canyon can take over five hours to reach, Grand Canyon West is in perfect proximity from the city for a day trip. This part of the Grand Canyon is a little commercialized for our taste and not nearly as scenic as the South or North Rim, but it is still a worthwhile visit as there are quite a few attractions to see. 

Not to mention it’s an absolutely gorgeous drive and you can totally pair it with a trip to the Hoover Dam or Lake Mead (#5 and #7 respectively on this list). 

Cost: One unique part of the West Rim is that it isn’t technically part of the Grand Canyon National Park, but rather owned by a private Native American tribe. The admission fee ($49) helps support the Hualapai tribe and you can even take a self-guided tour through the village. 

Top things to do in Grand Canyon West Rim

• Drive to Eagle Point and visit the Hualapai tribal village. Here you can learn about the indigenous people, catch a live performance or buy some hand-crafted souvenirs. Access to the village is included in the entrance fee. 
• Take advantage of the Hop-On Hop-Off shuttle services to explore some popular spots within the Canyon. This is included in the initial entrance price to the park.
• If you’re feeling adventurous or—umm—super brave, you can walk across the skywalk that extends straight over the rim of the canyon. All we can say is: yikes and good luck!
• Hike the short 30 minutes to Guano Point for 360 views of the canyon. There is also a cafe at the top, Guano Point Cafe, if you’re feeling hungry after your hike.
• Consider booking a helicopter tour for a real adventure. While helicopter tours tend to be quite pricey, they are remarkable. 
• Witness the grandeur of the Grand Canyon from below on a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River. Gaze upon the miles and miles of ancient rock formations as you challenge the rapids!

3. Death Valley National Park

• At a glance: endless unique landscapes and hiking opportunities in an underrated national park 
• Distance from Las Vegas: 149 miles, 2 hours 

In our humble opinion, Death Valley is an extremely underrated national park that makes one of the best day trips from Las Vegas! In just two hours, you’ll leave Sin City in the rearview mirror and discover totally unique landscapes in this desert oasis. Whether you decide to spend some time hitting the trails, playing on the sand dunes or simply enjoying a delicious desert sunset, we have a guide for the ultimate Las Vegas to Death Valley day trip . 

In this guide, you’ll find easy-to-follow directions, packing suggestions and, of course, the top things to see and do in the park.  

4. Red Rock Canyon

• At a glance: Get among the pink and rusty-colored rocks in this scenic and famous canyon 
• Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles, 20 minutes

A true escape from the city lies in Red Rock Canyon. This National Conservation Area is adored by both tourists and locals due to its scenic beauty and array of hiking trails. 

Plus, due to its close proximity, the canyon is easily accessible via Beltway-215 as a quick day trip from Las Vegas.

This fact, however, does mean the park can get crowded. Even overly-crowded at times which can be a bummer.

An incredibly photogenic place, you’ll no doubt be wanting to snap a gazillion photos of the colored rock and unique formations in the park.

Red Rock Canyon is also a climber’s dream due to the massive sandstone, jutting cliffs and (mostly) dreamy weather conditions. There are multiple companies from which you can hire a guide and embark on a climbing experience. 

Cost: It costs $15 per vehicle to enter and from October-May you need to make a reservation to visit ahead of time. 

Psst! If you enjoy dreamy desertscapes, you might want to check out Joshua Tree National Park . Though it’s too far to do as a day trip, it could make a nice addition to a southwest road trip. Pair it with a weekend in Palm Springs for a mix of adventure and relaxation!

Top day hikes in Red Rock Canyon

We almost insist you go hiking when in Red Rock Canyon! It is the best way to get up close and personally with the ancient rock formations surrounding you. 

Fortunately there are loads of hikes to choose from catering to all skills levels. We’ve compiled a few hikes that are totally do-able if you’re planning a day trip from Las Vegas. Pine Creek Canyon Trail for some of the most diverse scenery in the canyon; it takes about 1.5 hours to complete

• Distance: 3.4 miles, out and back
• Elevation Gain: 515 feet
• Level: Easy
• View trail notes

Calico Tanks Trail for a lovely view of Las Vegas; it takes about an hour to complete. 

• Distance: 2.2 miles, out and back
• Elevation Gain: 407 feet
• Level: Easy-Moderate

Ice Box Canyon Trail for a peek at a waterfall; it takes a little over an hour to complete. 

• Distance: 2.3 miles, out and back

Lost Creek Trail for a glimpse of a waterfall; it takes about 15 minutes to complete

• Distance: 0.6 miles, out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 91 feet

White Rock Hills Trail for a longer hike through rich vegetation and juniper trees; it takes about 3 hours to complete. 

• Distance: 6.1 miles, loop 
• Elevation Gain: 1135 feet
• Level: Moderate 

If you’re interested in more hikes – especially the more difficult or less-traveled trails – check out our complete guide to hiking Las Vegas . It is on these hikes that you’ll find it easier to escape some of the busier areas of the park and the touristy crowds.

Top things to do in Red Rock Canyon

• Drive along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive . Roll down the windows and get that desert air in your hair! 
• There are many companies located within the park to choose from, but Red Rock Climbing Center seems like a great choice. 
• Take an electric bike tour . This is a perfect tour if you have limited time in Red Rock Canyon as it only takes about 3 hours. If you’re planning a day trip from Las Vegas, you can easily pair this activity with a short hike or the scenic drive to get the most out of your trip. 
• Check out the Petroglyph Wall. Simply park your car and walk a short distance to get there. It is an outstanding display of dozens upon dozens of ancient figures, animals and symbols from the Pueblean people. 
• Keep in mind, however, this area can get crowded. This isn’t a huge issue, but there are also many trails and overlooks along the route so you can easily hobble over some rocks and find your own private spot. 
• As always, be mindful of the environment and take your trash with you! 

5. Hoover Dam

• At a glance: an iconic historical landmark that has been named a ‘Steel Wonder of the World’ 
• Distance from Las Vegas: 37 miles, 40 minutes

One of the easiest (and quickest) day trips from Las Vegas would have to be a visit to the Hoover Dam. In just 40 minutes you’ll be out of the city center witnessing the wonders of this historical landmark.

The Hoover Dam draws in millions of tourists every year and due to its close proximity to Las Vegas, you definitely won’t be alone here. Therefore, we recommend heading out early in the morning to beat the majority of the crowds.

There are two tours to choose from and both include access to the Visitor’s Center.

The Hoover Dam tour costs $30 per person and The Hoover Dam Power Plant tour costs $15 per person. Each tour offers a colorful and detailed history into this iconic engineering feat.

Insider Tip: If you’re traveling on a budget or aren’t interested in a tour, park on the Arizona side (in a more remote lot) and walk to the dam for free. 

How to get there: Take the I-215 to I-11. Connect to US 93 and follow signs to Boulder City.

If you don’t have your own transportation, there are numerous guided tours from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam . Although tours can sometimes feel restrictive, they can also be quite relaxing as you don’t have to worry about any planning once you’re on board! 

Another way to access the Hoover Dam is by water. Blazinpaddles offers kayak tours down the Colorado River through the Hoover Dam. 

6. Zion National Park

• At a glance: one of most popular national parks in the nation with jaw-dropping landscapes and enormous red rock formations
• Distance from Las Vegas: 159.6 miles, 2 hours and 40 minutes

In just over two hours from Las Vegas you can leave the entire state of Nevada behind. Hop over to Utah to visit the popular and extremely gorgeous Zion National Park. 

With its vibrant sandstone, red rock canyons, sprinkle of pine trees and exquisite views of the stunning Virgin River, Zion National Park is one of America’s most famous and beautiful National Parks. And once you visit, you’ll know exactly why! 

Full disclosure: This place is crazy busy and crazy popular. We’re not saying it isn’t worth it (it totally is!) but if you’re going to plan a trip, check out our detailed guide to Zion National Park for the best times to go and how to avoid the crowds. Plus, we’ve detailed the best hikes and things to do in the park. 

How to get there: It’s pretty much a straight shot down I-15 from Las Vegas. While the drive isn’t especially scenic, there are numerous places to stop along the way to make the best out of your day trip. 

On the route you’ll pass Valley of Fire (#1 on this list) and Lake Mead (#7) so you could easily pair these three trips together! 

Psst! Don’t miss some of the best hikes in Zion National Park .

7. Lake Mead Recreation Area

• At a glance: acres upon acres of mountains, canyons and clear lakes, perfect for nature enthusiasts 
• Distance from Las Vegas: 31.7 miles, 35 minutes

Lake Mead spans across over a million acres of stunning scenery: mountains, canyons, lakes and a surplus of wildlife. That may sound like a lot, but you can plan a day trip to Lake Mead to spend a relaxing day at the beach. 

We know what you’re thinking … a beach in the middle of the desert!? 

Well.. yes. Despite being in the middle of the Nevada desert, Lake Mead offers visitors the opportunity to cool off by plunging into its crystal-clear waters.

Cost: It costs $25 per vehicle which you can pay upon arrival; no prior reservations are required. 

Since the entrance price is quite expensive, we recommend spending the whole day there to get your money’s worth. And because there is literally so much to do there, you definitely won’t be bored.

Top things to do at Lake Mead Recreation Area 

• Go for a swim. Lake Mead offers 2 miles of flawless shoreline, but the two most popular areas for swimming are at Boulder Beach or Special Events Beach; both located on the Southwestern part of the lake. 
• Paddle the magical waters of Lake Mead on a kayak tour . On this particular tour, you’ll also visit Emerald Cave and Black Canyon.
• Rent a kayak and explore Willow Beach.
• Take the 12-mile scenic drive down Northshore Road. This is a paved and safe way to cruise around Lake Mead, but be aware that there is no gas available on the route so fill up ahead of time. 
• Stop for some delicious seafood at the Harbor House Cafe . Not only does this restaurant offer outstanding food loved by locals, but it’s also a floating restaurant with excellent views. 
• Hike or kayak to the stunning Arizona Hot Springs. Check out #11 in this guide for more information.
• Get out into nature and explore some of the surrounding trails. A few hikes we think would be good for a day trip from Las Vegas include Railroad Tunnel Trail , Liberty Bell Arch , and Arizona Hot Springs Trail (see #10 for more info!).

• At a glance: cruise down the Extraterrestrial Highway for some quirky and out-of-this-world adventures
• Distance from Las Vegas: 82.4 miles, 1 hour 20 minutes

Take the two hour drive from Las Vegas and cruise down Route 375, nicknamed the Extraterrestrial Highway, for some really strange and quirky stops. We’re talking about alien murals, strange souvenirs, Alien Amber Ales … amongst other things.

This roadway is really popular among paranormal enthusiasts and definitely has the making of a good travel story. If you have time and like peculiar and rather bizarre adventures, this could just be one of your favorite day trips from Las Vegas.

The drive itself is pretty deserted and dull, but the prospect of a UFO sighting is sure to keep you on your toes. Plus, there are loads of unusual places to stop along the way.

Please note: The actual Area 51 is an active U.S. military base and it is completely prohibited to visit the area. So, while you can make presumptions of what is inside, the secrets within Area 51 remain tight-lipped…

Top places to stop on the Extraterrestrial Highway

• Visit Pahranagat Lake . This isn’t alien-related in any way, but if you’re looking to get out into nature, this is a worthwhile stop on your way to alien-ville.
• Stop in Hiko to visit the eccentric alien mural and grab some extra-terrestrial themed snacks at E.T. Fresh Jerky (sour gummy aliens, anyone?!).
• Visit the Alien Research Center in Alamo. There isn’t anything remotely scientific about this place, but it seems like a staple stop if you’re going on a road trip in search of the paranormal! Just look for the giant alien out front — you honestly cannot miss it. 
• Visit the town of Rachel which seems to be the alien capital of the world —or something like that! Have a drink at the Little A’Le’Inn and swap stories with the friendly locals. 
• Walk on ‘Mars’ at the Lunar Crater in Tonopah. The crater is a natural landmark composed of real volcanic craters and lava beds that make you feel like you’re really walking in space. In fact, it is so similar to that of the moon that, historically, NASA astronauts have conducted training here. Even better? This place is totally free! 

9. Mount Charleston

• At a glance: a true escape from the desert that might just include real snow
• Distance from Las Vegas: 38.9 miles, 45 minutes

A visit to Mount Charleston will easily make you forget you’re in the middle of the desert with its snow-capped mountains and lush canyons. Not to mention the wildlife! Forget those desert scorpions and lizards – Mount Charleston is home to animals such as wild horses, eagles and deer. 

A great way to experience Mount Charleston is by taking a drive. Start at the Spring Mountain Visitor’s Center There are three byways to choose from – Kyle Canyon, Lee Canyon Road & Deer Creek Road – all of which are paved and offer phenomenal views. 

Overall, the loop takes about an hour to complete and you’ll cruise through a variety of elevations. Be prepared to say goodbye to that thick, desert air and hello to the crisp mountain breeze!  

Believe it or not, you can even ski here. In winter, check out Lee Canyon ski resort to hit the snowy slopes of Mount Charleston.

In summer, this is an incredibly popular place for nature enthusiasts. The highest elevation rewards visitors with cooler temperatures which makes hiking here an actual dream.

Hikes at Mount Charleston

Many travelers opt to reach the summit, but if you’re planning a day trip from Las Vegas, we recommend taking the South Loop Trail instead. It is still challenging, but a lot shorter so you can easily complete it in a few hours. This trail is around 8.5 miles with an elevation gain of a little over 4,000 feet.

To access this route, start at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead and take a right once you reach the fork in the trail.

Aside from the South Loop Trail, there are a variety of other hikes in the area perfect for a day trip so choose one that suits your needs and skill level.

Eagle’s Nest Trail for an easy and well-marked hike perfect for families; it takes about 1 hour to complete. 

• Distance: 2.6 miles, loop 
• Elevation Gain: 413 feet

Mary Jane Falls for a view of a waterfall and a cave for exploring; it takes about 2 hours to complete. 

• Distance: 3.9 miles, out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 1,135 feet

Echo Overlook Trail for a more challenging (but gorgeous) hike; it takes about 3 hours to complete. 

• Distance: 4.5 miles, out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 1,417 feet
• Level: Challenging 

Where to eat near Mount Charleston

Looking for a place to eat after a day of exploring this gorgeous area? There are numerous restaurants peppered along the route:

• Have a beer or share some nachos at Mt Charleston Lodge while taking in the stunning surroundings. 
• Take advantage of the large outdoor patio at Bighorn Grill and enjoy some local bar food.
• What is better after a long hike than indulging in some carbs? Honestly, nothing. Grab some pizza at Mark Rich’s NY Pizza & Pasta before heading back to the big city. 

10. Arizona Hot Springs

• At a glance: cozy (and hot!) natural hot springs tucked alongside ancient volcanic rock
• Distance from Las Vegas: 40.1 miles, 40 minutes

We loveeee a good soak after a day of hiking and while we’ve visited quite a few hot springs in our day, the Arizona Hot Springs look truly unique. Tucked between ancient volcanic rocks with shades of burnt orange and hues of pink, you’ll feel quite secluded and completely at ease in this heavenly place.

The hot springs can be accessed in two ways: by hiking or by boat. (Directions below!)

Whether you choose to hike or kayak, you will be rewarded with a steamy, stunning oasis. 

We should note, too, that the Arizona Hot Springs are clothing-optional so feel free to literally drop your sweaty workout clothes before getting in. Now that’s one way to be up close and personal with nature, hey? 

Arizona Hot Springs hike

• Distance: 5.9 miles, loop
• Elevation: 1,223 feet
• Difficulty Rating: challenging 
• View the trail notes

Take a quick 45 minute drive down I-93 from Las Vegas to the White Canyon Rock Trailhead. These springs are part of the Lake Mead Recreation Center, but at this time, there is no entrance fee to park at this trailhead.

In total, the hike itself takes about three hours to complete and it’s considered quite challenging. While there are signs along the trail, we also recommend downloading the hike on Alltrails ahead of time since there is no cell service along the trail.

In addition, pack extra water. After soaking, you’re likely to get a bit dehydrated so having a surplus of water is key for this hike.

Access by boat

To access the hot spring by boat, rent a kayak at the Willow Beach Marina in Black Canyon and paddle up the Colorado River (about 8 miles). 

There are clear mile markers that you follow until you reach the beach. From there, follow the trail into the canyon and climb the ladder that is partly in (yes, in ) the waterfall to reach the hot springs. 

Tip: When spending an extended period of time outdoors in the heat, be sure to take precautions such as packing enough water, using sunscreen and having your route downloaded to ensure you have a healthy and enjoyable experience.

11. Gold Strike Hot Springs

• At a glance: a challenging hike with a steamy reward
• Distance from Las Vegas: 36.4 miles, 40 minutes

If you’re traveling to Las Vegas in the fall and winter months (September through May), pop over for a visit to Gold Strike Hot Springs. Although it’s just a half hour from the bright lights of the city, you’ll feel like you’re a trillion miles away.

To reach Gold Strike Hot Springs, you’ll need to first navigate a challenging hike. 

Gold Strike Hot Springs hike

• Distance: 6 miles, out-and-back
• Elevation: 1,466 feet

This three-hour hike is a bit technical with some steep climbs and ropes, so you’ll actually need a soothing soak when you reach the summit.

There are technically three hot springs along the hike, but the second and third ones are the most worthwhile. If you keep hiking after the last hot springs, you’ll reach the Colorado River which might be a nice place to cool off after your soak.

Similar to the Arizona Hot Springs (#11), these springs are technically part of the Lake Mead Recreation Area, but there is no entrance fee at this trailhead making this a really cheap day trip from Las Vegas.

Insider Tip: Unfortunately many people have reported that their car has been broken into while hiking so we recommend leaving anything valuable back at your accommodation so you can enjoy your hike worry-free.

12. Nelson and Eldorado Canyon

• At a glance: a unique ghost town and picturesque canyon make a 2-for-1 day trip
• Distance from Las Vegas: 50.1 miles, 1 hour

About an hour south of Las Vegas is the quirky ‘ghost town’ of Nelson. A visit here will offer a chance to witness what life was like in the golden-olden days. With an array of Western-style buildings, backdrops, classic cars and other relics, it is a true blast into the past. Don’t forget to bring your camera! This is kind of a photographer’s dream location. 

Aside from snagging some epic shots, history enthusiasts will be especially interested in the Techatticup Mine Tour. You’ll explore the tunnels of the gold mine that ran for over 40 years beginning all the way back in 1861. 

The tour has some rave reviews, but also books out quickly so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

If you drive about five miles past the ghost town, you’ll be welcomed with some stunning scenery of Eldorado Canyon, carved by the Colorado River. This area is famous for its cliff jumping, swimming, hiking and private picnic spots. 

Note: There are little to no garbage cans in the area so please pack your own (compostable) garbage bag and take your trash out with you.

Honestly, checking out the town’s antique relics, exploring the gold mine and flipping off some cliffs seems like the perfect day trip from Las Vegas to us!

A little side note: When searching this location on Google Maps , be aware there is also an Eldorado Canyon Street (5 minutes from the Strip) as well as an Eldorado Canyon State Park (all the way in Colorado)! The one you’re looking for – Eldorado Canyon – is about an hour from Las Vegas near the town of Nelson.

13. Cathedral Gorge State Park

• At a glance: stunning park with a rich geographic history, perfect for a pleasant day in nature
• Distance from Las Vegas: 165.4 miles, 2 hours and 30 minutes

When you visit Cathedral Gorge State Park, it is hard to imagine that the truly unique and stunning rock formations are the result of devastating volcanic eruptions and searing hoards of lava. If only the rock walls could talk, right!? From Las Vegas, this is a totally easy route straight down I-93. Although the drive isn’t too exciting in terms of mind blowing scenery, there are a few small towns you can stop at along the way for a bite to eat, a stretch or as a quick chat with a local (our favorite)! The entrance fee is $10 to visit the park and you can easily spend the majority of your day here, especially if you want to really kick back and relax. There are numerous shaded picnic spots and hiking trails to explore – all of which offer sensational views of the cliff-like rock formations throughout the park. 

Hikes in Cathedral Gorge

While there are a few to choose from, we recommend the Juniper Draw Loop Trail for a day trip because you’ll be able to access a lot of the beauty of the park in a short amount of time. To experience a series of vibrant colors dancing along the rock formations, this easy 3-mile loop trail is best experienced at sunrise or sunset. There isn’t much shade along the hike itself, so pack extra water if you’re hiking in the afternoon.

If you’re really pressed for time, Eagle Point and Nature Loop , which is under 1 mile and will only take you about 20 minutes to complete. It isn’t a particularly busy trail, either, so you aren’t likely to run into a bunch of other people.

14. Snow Canyon State Park

• At a glance: a medley of geographic gorgeous-ness, perfect for those looking to spend their day outdoors
• Distance from Las Vegas: 128.5 miles, 2 hours

For this adventure, you’ll have to hop state borders, but don’t that deter you—it’s just two hours outside of Las Vegas and totally worth the drive!

As with most places we’ve recommended on this list, Snow Canyon is best to visit in the spring or fall due to the ideal weather conditions for outdoor adventures. With that being said, the park is open all-year round so you can really visit anytime.

Cost: It costs $10 per vehicle to enter the park and no reservations are required ahead of time. Alternatively, you can park outside of the park and walk in for $5 per person. 

Top things to do in Snow Canyon State Park

• Go for a hike, of course! This park is on the smaller side, but still has over 20 miles of trails to explore. Pick up a map at the visitor’s center and choose which hikes suit your time and skill level best.
• Play in the nearby sand dunes. 
• If you’re into climbing, Snow Canyon State Park has some great walls to scale for both beginners and experienced climbers alike. If you need to rent equipment or hire a guide, there are loads of companies in the St. George area; Paragon Adventures has great reviews! 
• Hike to Snow Canyon Overlook or the Petrified Sand Dunes and watch the colors dance around the canyons during sunset. Pack some wine to make this a romantic end to your day!

15. Lake Havasu City

• At a glance: a relaxing getaway spot with gorgeous scenery and plenty to do
• Distance from Las Vegas: 152.6 miles, 2 hours and 30 minutes

Located in sunny Arizona within close proximity to Las Vegas, Lake Havasu has secluded beaches, pristine hiking trails and loads to do.

We think this is a perfect day trip from Las Vegas because in less than three hours you’ll not only be in a whole new state, but you’ll be surrounded by miles of immaculate coastline and the turquoise waters of Lake Havasu. 

Honestly, any opportunity to cool off in the middle of the desert is a win in our book. 

Top things to do in Lake Havasu City 

• Spend some time on Lake Havasu. Meander around to find a private spot to have a picnic and a swim or rent a kayak, jet ski or boat from Go Lake Havasu.  
• Visit the famous London Bridge. You can take a guided walking tour (which you can book at the visitor’s center) along the bridge to learn about its interesting history and local tips about the area.
• You can only access this gem by boat so take a kayak from Topock Marina or Lake Havasu area. If you’re limited on time, however, you might consider booking a boat tour . 
• Take a ferry to Havasu Landing Casino and try your luck at the floating casino! 
• If you’re traveling in January, attend the annual Havasu Balloon Festival . It looks amazing! 

16. Colorado River

• At a glance: enjoy the array of adventures this beautiful river offers
• Distance from Las Vegas: 177 miles, 3 hours

The Colorado River is in close proximity to Las Vegas and is the perfect spot for nature and water enthusiasts.

One of the most popular (and closest) things to do when coming from Las Vegas is taking a kayak tour and cruising down the Black Water Trail. As the name suggests, this is a literal water trail. You’ll move through coves, spot wildlife and visit Emerald Cave – which is an absolute must! 

You can also hop into a raft and float down the Colorado River right past the Hoover Dam!

If you’re feeling adventurous, the Colorado River is a great location for white water rafting . This is one of our favorite adrenalin activities that we’ve experienced in a few different places around the world. 

While this particular tour is quite expensive, you are voyaging through the actual Grand Canyon—so—kinda worth it, right? 

17. Antelope Canyon

• At a glance: one of the most photographed slot canyons in the U.S.

Created by millions of years of erosion, Antelope Canyon is one of the most sought-after locations in the American Southwest as photographers from all over the world come here to gaze at the canyon’s orange and gold illuminated walls.

Visiting Antelope Canyon from Vegas is a full day’s journey since the canyon is a 4-5 hour drive away from the city, but there are spots to break up the drive to or from the canyon that will make the trip a little more fulfilling: Page, Horseshoe Bend, St. George, and Lake Powell. Any of these would make a fantastic addition to a trip to Antelope Canyon.

In order to tour either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, you’ll need an authorized Navajo guide . You’ll also need a permit, but that should be included in your guide fee (be sure to double check). Most tours cost between $50 and $90 and last around 90-minutes. Be sure to book in advance as most sell out weeks in advance. 

Psst! We have a complete guide to visiting Antelope Canyon on our sister site with more info!

This Lower Antelope Walking Tour includes your admission ticket and 1.5 hour tour through the canyon. Learn about the local Navajo traditions and rich history as you walk through a kaleidoscope of colored passageways.

Please note: You are going to be on Navajo Land, so there are a handful of rules you must follow in order to go into the canyon: food, drinks, selfie sticks, tripods, fanny packs, bags, and purses are not allowed in the canyon. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and pack a bottle of water (you can only bring one). 

You might also like…

• Cool Things to Do in Las Vegas (besides gambling!)
• Las Vegas on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips
• Hiking Las Vegas: The Best Trails Near Sin City
• Las Vegas to Death Valley: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

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16 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas (Ultimate Guide & Map)

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While Las Vegas is where the party’s at, you may find yourself wanting to get away from the glitz and crowds of Vegas for a day, or even just part of a day. Well then, we’ve got some excellent Vegas day trips to recommend!

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These locations can all be experienced from Las Vegas in a single day. Some of the road trips will take just a couple of hours, while others will be longer, full-day excursions. These trips will require access to a car, either your own or a rental (I’ve also indicated if the destination has any guided tours available where you won’t need a car).

Keep reading and make sure to bookmark this page so you can quickly refer to it when looking for new Las Vegas day trip ideas, as this guide will be continuously updated and added to. So, let’s get started with the best day trips from Las Vegas!

Need a Vegas rental car? Find the  best deals on car rentals in Las Vegas  (Discover Cars )

Inside this article:

Top Day Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

To make things easier, I’ve marked them as either half-day or full-day trips, given approximate one-way mileage, and noted if the destinations require any off-road driving.

That’s a lot of day trips from Las Vegas! The linked locations are the ones where we’ve written a detailed visitor guide about the destination. So click through and find out everything you need to know about visiting each one of these areas.

We’ve also included both the popular, as well as some more “off-the-beaten-path” recommendations. I’ve marked the most popular day trips with an asterisk. These are the ones to hit first!

Las Vegas Day Trips Map (Popular Destinations)

The map below shows where all the day trips are located relative to Las Vegas. Once you find a destination you want to visit, be sure to take a look at the map to see if there are any other day trip suggestions nearby or on the way. You can often combine multiple Las Vegas day trip destinations!

Blue = Destinations of Interest Red = National Parks

Vegas Day Trip Descriptions (Alphabetical Order)

Below you’ll find a brief description of each of the Las Vegas day trip destinations, including what you’ll get to see and do while you’re there, plus directions to the location.

Area 51 is well-known as the site of a top-secret United States Air Force base that is found at the center of many UFO and alien-related conspiracy theories. While you can’t access the base (for obvious reasons), you can drive down the Extraterrestrial Highway (Hwy 375) to Rachel, Nevada. Rachel is the closest town to the military base and the site of many UFO sightings. See our complete Area 51 Travel Guide here .

• Distance From Las Vegas: 151 miles
• Directions: Google maps
• Guided Tour: Yes. See tour available here at Viator.

Death Valley National Park

If its surreal landscapes you’re looking for, head out to Death Valley National Park . Death Valley is one of the hottest and driest places on earth. There’s so much to see here, from the hills and peaks of Zabriskie Point (pictured above), to the below-sea-level salt flats of Badwater Basin. Other areas of interest include Furnace Creek, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artist’s Palette, and Stovepipe Wells. A Death Valley day trip will take a full day, but it’s one you will really enjoy if you have the time.

Warning : This is not a trip to take in the middle of summer as the daytime temperatures can regularly reach up to 120 degrees °F and beyond!

• Distance From Las Vegas: 106 miles
• Guided Tours: Yes. See available tour options here at Viator.

Grand Canyon West (Not Grand Canyon National Park)

Just a 2.5 hour drive from the Las Vegas Strip and you’ll be at Grand Canyon West . This is one of the best day trips you can take from Vegas!

The west rim of the Grand Canyon is where you will find the infamous Skywalk. It’s a horseshoe-shaped bridge that juts out over the edge of the Grand Canyon and has a clear glass bottom walkway so you can look straight down to the canyon floor. Yikes!

In Grand Canyon West, you’ll also find several lookout points offering spectacular views of the Grand Canyon , a Native American village featuring arts, crafts, and performances, plus an old western-styled ranch full of authentic cowboy entertainment.

Note: Grand Canyon West is part of the Grand Canyon, but it is on native American land and isn’t officially part of Grand Canyon National Park.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 128 miles
• Guided Tours Available: Yes. See tour options here at Viator.

A trip to Las Vegas would hardly be complete without taking a short side trip out to see Hoover Dam. An easy 45-minute drive from Vegas, Hoover Dam is one of the man-made wonders of the world! This feat of engineering was built in 1931 and is one of the big reasons Las Vegas exists today. While you’re here, you’ll want to walk across the dam, check out the visitor center, and possibly take the official Hoover Dam tour to see the dam’s inner workings.

Just before your reach Hoover Dam, stop off at the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. The concrete bridge spanning Black Canyon and the Colorado River below is another miracle of modern engineering. You can walk out on the bridge and get the most amazing aerial view of the Hoover Dam you could ever imagine!

Check out our complete guide to visiting Hoover Dam here.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 39 miles

Jean/Roach Dry Lake Beds

If driving around a huge, dry lake bed in the Mojave Desert sounds like your kind of fun then you’ll want to visit Jean/Roach Dry Lake Beds . You’ll find Jean Dry Lake Bed just a short way out of town, and not far off of Interstate 15 heading south. This is a popular spot for riding ATV’s and driving off-road vehicles, and it’s recommended to have a 4×4 in order to get out to the lake bed.

Jean Dry Lake is home to the annual Rise Festival, and is regularly used in movies and television commercials, but on any average day you’re likely to have the place all to yourself. See our full travel guide to visiting Jean Dry Lake Bed here.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 25 miles
• Guided Tours Available: No

Kolob Canyons (Zion National Park)

Kolob Canyons is a spectacularly scenic area in nearby Utah that is suitable for a long but great day trip from Las Vegas. Technically part of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons is a separate area from the main part of Zion NP, and has its own entrance because it doesn’t connect to the rest of the park by road.

The area consists of a 5 mile scenic drive through some narrow box canyons surrounded by 2,000 foot tall cliffs made of red Navajo sandstone. While there are plenty of hikes and back country areas to explore, the scenic drive and viewpoints will allow you to see the best of the canyons from the comfort of your car.

Note: The scenic drive may be closed in the winter due to snow and ice. You’ll need to check before you go.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 156 miles
• Guided Tours Available: No, but tours to other parts of Zion NP exist.

A visit to Lake Mead is another day trip option located just a short way from the Las Vegas Strip. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area was created when the area was flooded after the Hoover Dam was built. Full of beautiful landscapes, you can explore the lake by car, or by renting a boat or a kayak. You can even take a dinner cruise on an authentic Mississippi paddle-wheeler.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 34 miles

Mount Charleston

While standing in the arid desert of Las Vegas, it might be hard to believe that Mount Charleston’s aspens and pine trees are just a short drive away. This mountain town is found at 7,510 feet above sea level, and offers a host of year-round activities.

Due to the elevation, this quaint community is about 20 degrees cooler in the summer than down on the valley floor, making it a great escape from the heat. Activities in the warmer months include hiking, camping, golf, and horseback riding . While the winter months bring snow, skiing, and hot chocolate by the fire in the Mt. Charleston Lodge.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 41 miles
• Guided Tours Available: No.

Nelson Ghost Town & Techatticup Mine

Nevada is home to more ghost towns than any other state in the country, and one of them can be found just a few miles outside of Las Vegas. Nelson Ghost Town in Eldorado Canyon was home to the largest gold strike in the state back in 1858. The town and the mines were also legendary for the lawlessness and land disputes that led to its reputation as one of the most violent towns in the west.

Today, Nelson Ghost Town is a popular and relatively short trip from Las Vegas. The town consists of many old buildings, rusting antique cars, and a whole collection of historic memorabilia. History buffs and photographers will be in heaven here and can easily spend hours exploring the remains. There is also a store full of interesting sights and souvenirs.

Also available is a mine tour of the Techatticup Mine, which was mined from 1858 until 1945. It’s a fascinating look into the lives and working conditions of the miners.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 46 miles

You can see our full guide to visiting Nelson Ghost Town here.

Nelson’s Landing (Beach & Cliff Jumping)

Ready for some excitement and a day at the beach? About 45 minutes from Vegas, you’ll find Nelson’s Landing. It’s a pretty little cove and beach along the shore of the Colorado River. You can back your car right up to the water’s edge and set up a picnic, or bring a cooler full of drinks and relax as you gaze across the river into nearby Arizona.

The highlight of the trip for many is the cliff jumping at Nelson’s Landing. For thrill-seekers, there is a cliff where you can jump off into the deep waters of the river! Even if you’re not daring enough to jump, you can yell and encourage those who are jumping along with the rest of the spectators on the beach.

If swimming is more of your thing, you can let the sparkling clear water of the Colorado cool you off. Check out our complete guide to visiting Nelson’s Landing here.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 54 miles (the last 1.4 miles is off-road)

Red Rock Canyon

Without a doubt, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the most popular day trip outside of Las Vegas! The amazing red rock landscapes and proximity to Vegas make Red Rock Canyon a must-see when visiting southern Nevada. The first stop you’ll want to make is at the impressive visitor’s center. The exhibits will tell you all about the history and geography of the area.

Next, you’ll want to drive the 13-mile scenic road that loops through the park showing you all the scenery and giving you some amazing views of the red rock. There are pull-outs and parking areas along the way where you can stretch your legs with a short walk or find a trailhead for a longer hike. Take a look at our Red Rock Canyon visitor’s guide for all the details of visiting this beautiful area.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 17 miles

Red Spring Picnic Area & Boardwalk

Red Spring is a cool little spot just outside the fee-pay area of Red Rock Canyon. Red Spring is a natural spring that feeds a meadow of grasses and trees, which is unusual to find in the Mojave desert. It’s a very scenic location with a picnic area that has several covered picnic tables, each with its own barbecue grill.

You’ll also find a raised boardwalk (1/2 mile loop trail) that will take you up through the meadows and eventually to Red Spring itself, which honestly is just a little wet, muddy area on the ground. The scenery, however, is quite amazing as the spring is surrounded by cliffs of towering rocks. You can see our complete guide to visiting Red Spring here, plus more pictures.

Rhyolite Ghost Town

If you’re looking for a truly authentic and uninhabited ghost town, then you’ll want to consider taking a day to visit Rhyolite. Rhyolite Ghost Town is a mining town that failed in the early 1900s due to the financial crisis of 1907. One of the most unusual things about this ghost town is that several of the buildings were constructed from concrete, so their skeletons are still partially standing today.

Included in the remnants of the town is the famous Bottle House. It’s a house constructed using over 50 thousand beer, whiskey, and medicine bottles. Also, next to the town, you can find the Goldwell Open Air Museum . The museum is an outdoor sculpture garden containing several fascinating, large-scale sculptures.

Rhyolite sits up in the mountains very near to one of the entrances to Death Valley National Park in the valley below and will make for a good full-day trip if you combine the two.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 127 miles

Seven Magic Mountains

One of the more popular day trips from Vegas is to take a short drive out into the desert to see the Seven Magic Mountains . This colorful and surreal, free-standing sculpture is a temporary art installation by artist Ugo Rondinone.

The exhibit consists of seven towers of brightly colored boulders that reach over 30 feet into the air. It’s one of the top selfie spots in Las Vegas!

The artwork is located on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land and was only supposed to be here until 2018, but it proved so popular that the land permit was extended for a few more years. No one knows exactly when or if it will disappear, so don’t wait too long to see it!

Find out everything you need to know about visiting Seven Magic Mountains in our guide here .

• Distance From Las Vegas: 21 miles

Valley of Fire State Park

The American Southwest is known for its scenic landscapes filled with fantastic rock formations, and if you’re hoping to see some of these landscapes on you next trip to Las Vegas you’re in luck! About a hours drive from the Las Vegas Strip will get you to Valley of Fire State Park .

The Valley of Fire consists of over 40,000 acres of incredible vistas, and rock formations made up of red Aztec sandstone. Among the rock formations you’ll want to look for are Elephant Rock, The Beehives, and the Fire Wave. Activities within the park include hiking, rock climbing, viewing Native American petroglyphs, and a scenic loop drive.

While the Valley of Fire makes for a perfect day trip, there is also camping available if you’d like to spend more time.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 52 miles

Zion National Park

If visiting national parks is your passion, you should seriously consider making a visit to Zion National Park . I’m not going to kid you, a day trip from Las Vegas to Zion will make for a very long day, and you won’t get to see and do everything in Zion, but if it’s your only chance to see the park, then it will be well worth it!

The Virgin River began carving out Zion National Park millions of years ago, which has resulted in a deep canyon with huge majestic sandstone cliffs on either side. Zion is a truly grand display of Mother Nature’s artistry. It’s so magnificent it’s hard to believe it’s even real!

A day trip to Zion from Las Vegas will include a stop at the visitors center, followed by a drive down the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (spring through fall, you will need to take the park’s shuttle bus). You’ll find plenty of stops along the way to marvel at the natural beauty surrounding you.

• Distance From Las Vegas: 164 miles

Things to Bring on a Day Trip From Las Vegas

The desert areas around and outside of Las Vegas can be some of the planet’s driest, hottest, and harshest environments (especially during the summer months). In addition, some of the destinations are very remote, so you’ll want to make sure to always have the following items on hand for your day’s adventure:

• Hat / Sunglasses – It is usually quite bright in and around Las Vegas, so sunglasses and a hat are a must.
• UV Travel Umbrella – Wendy and I just recently found a travel sun umbrella (Amazon) that has a metallic surface that reflects the sun, and wow, this thing really works! It instantly makes the temperature feel 15 degrees cooler.
• Sunscreen – The sun in the desert is harsh, even in the winter months, so be sure to bring some sunscreen along.
• Water – A small water bottle is not enough. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. You’ll be amazed how quickly you can get dried out in the desert.
• Food / Snacks – Depending on where you’re heading, there may be no food anywhere close by, so pack some snacks or meals.
• Map – A traditional folding map of Nevada is always a good idea. While we all have our phones, there are some remote areas where there is no mobile signal.

Click here to find the Best Car Rental Deals for Your Las Vegas Adventure!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there is a Las Vegas day trip that’s sure to be of interest when you’re ready to get out of town for a day, or even part of a day. A full-day trip will give you a great sense of the natural landscapes surrounding the city, while a shorter half-day trip will get you out and about for some fun, and still have you back on the Strip in time for dinner and an exciting night on the town!

Bryan is a Las Vegas local who has spent years exploring the city's vibrant culture and entertainment scene. With his extensive knowledge of the best attractions and hidden gems, he has become an expert on all things Las Vegas. He regularly shares his insider tips with people looking to visit Las Vegas and make the most of their trip. More about Bryan.

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The adventure-seeker's guide to jaw dropping day-trips outside Las Vegas

If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, you obviously know how to have a good time. That’s a given. But, did you know that surrounding this desert jewel is a world of wonder and escape? It’s true, in fact, Las Vegas is only a stone’s throw away from one of the 7 natural wonders of the world and some other pretty incredible outdoor excursions. If that sounds like something you’re into, then read on. We’ll help you plan for you day-trips off the strip to make sure that you get every last adventure out of your upcoming trip.

“How to find wonder just outside Las Vegas.”

Las Vegas to The Grand Canyon

One of the 7 natural wonders of the world is just a day trip away from Las Vegas. You’re probably thinking “that’s ok, Vegas is full of wonder and incredible experiences,” and you’re right, but let’s focus on the experiences you can only get when you step outside. Don’t miss your chance to stand in awe of one of the most incredible natural landscapes in the world. And if you think the Vegas skyline is beautiful at sunset, wait until you stand on the edge of the Grand Canyon and watch the sun go down. Book a trip by bus, rent a car or see the canyon from the sky with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Looking for even more adventure? Try walking out over the canyon, 4,000 feet up on a glass bridge . 

Valley of Fire

How does 40,000 acres of blazing red Aztec sandstone sound? It’s the perfect backdrop for expanding your sense of wonder. Just a short trip from Las Vegas will make you feel like you’re on another planet. Explore petroglyph marked walls and see petrified trees. It’s almost a time machine, a land preserved for ages. It’s close enough to Vegas that during you day, you can explore this prehistoric place and be back for world class dining and entertainment available only in Las Vegas at night.

“How to do the dam thing in Las Vegas”

The Hoover Dam is a big part of American history. It’s pretty famous too, you’ve probably seen it in the movies or tv or a documentary about the great depression and how this project was an economic boom for the region, but there’s nothing like seeing it in real life–it’s breathtaking. If you took all the concrete from the dam and used it to make a two-lane highway, you’d be able to connect Seattle, WA and Miami, FL. It’s an impressive feat of human engineering. Learn more about the Dam and its impact on the area and plan your Hoover Dam tour at the Boulder City Hoover Dam Museum . From Art Deco to Big Horn Sheep, there’s a lot about the Dam that might surprise you. If you’re looking for a quick trip from the strip, you’ll be glad you did the dam thing.

“Where to get away on your getaway to Las Vegas.”

Boulder City

30 minutes from the strip lies a small town full of big adventure where small-town charm is mixed with modern amenities like micro-breweries, trendy coffee houses, delicious restaurants and unique antique shops for an unforgettable experience. In the video below, VEGAS ON takes you on a tour of  Boulder City , which sprung up in the 1930s as a community for the builders of the Boulder Dam (now the Hoover Dam). Venture down the Colorado River with Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures for an awe-inspiring day trip. Check out the Boulder City Co. Store and the Boulder Dam Brewing Co., a microbrewery with in-house craft beers. And don’t forget to grab a hearty meal at the Cornish Pasty Co., you won’t regret it!

Red Rock Canyon

About 20 minutes the other way from Las Vegas, you’ll run into Red Rock Canyon . That’s where you’ll find over 25 hikes that will wind you through scenic and beautiful desert landscapes. Try the Calico Tank or Ice Box Canyon trails if you’re looking for a good time. And when you’re done, make sure to check out the brand-new Cottonwood Station Eatery , which is the perfect place to grab a bite after a long hike.

These excursions will leave you feeling just as ridiculously epic as a ride down The Strip in one of those hot tub limousines. It’s why Las Vegas is so great. There are so many ways to have the best experience of your life. You just have to decide what kind of experience you want that to be. So, whether you’re an adventure seeker or not, in Vegas (and just outside of it), you could be.

15 Best Las Vegas Tours and Day Trips from Las Vegas

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | 15 Best Las Vegas Tours and Day Trips from Las Vegas

There are so many awesome day trips from Las Vegas , so if you’re staying in this city, be sure to check out the surrounding areas. While there are lots of   things to do in Las Vegas , there are also some  Las Vegas excursions  you shouldn’t miss.

The city is famous for gambling, but there are plenty of  things to do outside Las Vegas if you want to experience part of the desert that surrounds the City of Lights. Renting a car in Las Vegas is the easiest way to explore the nearby sites. However, don’t worry if you don’t want to drive, because there are many great Las Vegas tours .

You just have to find a beautiful hotel to stay in Las Vegas , and then take a different day trip each day to get the full experience. I can help you out with my top day tours from Las Vegas .

The Best One-Day Tour from Las Vegas to Hollywood

5 Best Tours to Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas

The Best Area 51 Tour from Las Vegas, Nevada

The Best Tour to Death Valley from Las Vegas

The Best Valley of Fire Tour from Las Vegas

6 Best Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas in 2024

5 Best Tours to Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas

7 Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas, Nevada

Best tours and one-day trips from las vegas.

Choosing between all the  day trips from Las Vegas  can be difficult, but I hope my recommendations can help you out. No matter your budget or interests, I know there is a tour that will appeal to you!

To sum up, these are the 15 best excursions from Las Vegas:

• Las Vegas Night Tour
• Grand Canyon
• Antelope Canyon
• Downtown Walking Tours
• Death Valley
• Valley of Fire
• Zion & Bryce Canyon
• Red Rock Canyon
• Black Canyon
• The Strip from the Air
• Hollywood & Los Angeles
• El Dorado Canyon
• Monument Valley & nearby wonders

1. The Strip at Night, one of the top Las Vegas bus tours

The best way to get acquainted with Sin City is by taking a  Las Vegas night tour .  This tour   will take you to see the lights of downtown Vegas and the famous Strip. Pass by the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, Mirage volcano, Bellagio Fountains, and more. This  cheap Las Vegas tour  also includes a walk through the Fremont Street entertainment district to see the Viva Vision light show, one of the coolest things to do on the Las Vegas Strip .

1. The Strip at Night, one of the best Las Vegas bus tours

• Highlights:  Fabulous Las Vegas sign, Mirage volcano, Bellagio Fountain, Fremont Street walking tour
• Duration:  3 hours
• Price:  $50
• Description:  Hop on an open-top bus and ride along the Vegas Strip at night, passing some of the most iconic landmarks and stopping to see the light show at Fremont Street.

2. Grand Canyon Voyager, best day trips from Las Vegas

Grand Canyon is only a couple of hours from the city, so it’s no wonder why it is one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas. There are so many options to choose from, so we’ve hand-picked the 6 best Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas to help you find the one that fits your interests and budget.

Some even cost less than a hundred bucks, so this is a must-take Vegas tour for everyone spending some time (or even a layover) in Vegas.

2. Grand Canyon Voyager, one of the best day trips from Las Vegas

If you want to go big, I suggest checking out the Grand Canyon Voyager . This is not only one of the best Grand Canyon helicopter tours ; It also includes a below-the-rim landing and a scenic boat ride on the Colorado River. Besides, it will give you some time to explore the most popular lookouts on the West Rim, like Guano Point and Eagle Point.

And if you want to have the full experience, upgrade to add access to the famous Skywalk bridge.

In case you prefer to drive there, check our guide on road trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon .

• Highlights:  Hotel pick-up/drop-off, Grand Canyon West Rim, below-the-rim landing, Colorado River cruise, Guano Point, Eagle Point
• Duration:  7 hours (70-minute flight)
• Price:  $500+
• Description:  Board a flight to the West Rim and land on the canyon floor. From there, take a pontoon boat ride on the Colorado River, then fly back to Guano and Eagle Points.

3. Hoover Dam, one of the top Las Vegas excursions

Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas   are another popular option, and this amazing feat of human engineering is incredible in person.  This 3-hour tour  takes you to the  Hoover Dam  via historic Boulder City.

You’ll walk along the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge and get sweeping views of the dam, the Colorado River, and  Lake Mead , the country’s largest reservoir. This  Las Vegas bus tour  ends with a visit to Hemenway Park, where local bighorn sheep like to graze. You’ll get back to the city in time for other fun things to do in Las Vegas during the day .

• Highlights:  Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Boulder City, Hemenway Park
• Price:  $65
• Description:  Get picked up from Las Vegas and take a comfortable bus through Boulder City to the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge, the perfect lookout for viewing the dam and Lake Mead. Stop and see bighorn sheep at Hemenway Park before returning to Las Vegas.

4. Antelope Canyon  day tours from Las Vegas

On this  small-group tour , you can  visit Antelope Canyon  and  Horseshoe Bend  in one day trip since they’re both in Page, Arizona. If you’re short on time, this  Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas  is the perfect way to see these two natural wonders.

You’ll take a guided hike through the canyon’s most stunning areas, then head to Horseshoe Bend, where you’ll take a short hike to a beautiful lookout 1,000 feet above sea level. It’s one of the best  day trips from Las Vegas  if you want to get off the beaten path but you’re not sure where to go.

Check our guide with the 6 best Antelope Canyon tours from Las Vegas for more awesome options.

4. Antelope Canyon, one of the top day tours from Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Hotel pick-up/drop-off, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend
• Duration:  16 hours
• Price:  $299
• Description:  Take a guided hike through Antelope Canyon’s incredible slot canyons and enjoy the views from the Horseshoe Bend lookout.

5. Downtown Walk, a popular walking tour in Las Vegas

There are so many  things to do in downtown Las Vegas , so I suggest a  Las Vegas sightseeing tour  to acquaint yourself with the area. This  walking tour  takes you to  Fremont Street , one of the most iconic downtown spots. During this  Las Vegas walking tour , you’ll be able to photograph several of the Strip’s famous neon signs and casinos.

5. Downtown Walk, one of the most popular walking tours in Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Fremont Street Experience
• Duration:  2-2.5 hours
• Price:  $35
• Description:  Take a Las Vegas city tour  of vibrant Fremont Street, where you’ll pass by famous bars, clubs, casinos, and hotels. Marvel at the sights while learning about the history and revitalization of the area.

6. Death Valley, my favorite Las Vegas tour

A   visit to Death Valley   is a unique and memorable adventure, making it one of the  best day trips from Las Vegas . There are several  Death Valley tours from Las Vegas , but I recommend  this full-day tour   to the national park. You’ll experience some of the hottest temperatures in the country, as well as an intriguing landscape full of breathtaking views and colorful terrain.

• Highlights:  Badwater, Artist’s Palette, Dante’s Point, Zabriskie Point, Devil’s Golf Course, Furnace Creek, Mule Team Canyon
• Duration:  1 day
• Price:  $239
• Description:  Take a small-group tour through Death Valley National Park, stopping at the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere and one of the world’s largest salt flats.

7. Valley of Fire, one of the top day trips from Las Vegas

A  day trip from Las Vegas  can be a great  thing to do in Las Vegas for couples   who love adventure. One of my favorite  Las Vegas tours  is   this guided hike  through the  Valley of Fire State Park , a must-do in Nevada since it’s is one of the oldest state parks in the state. You can choose a hike that suits your fitness level, then scramble over red rocks and other geological formations to find ancient petroglyphs.

Check how was our experience in our guide to Valley of Fire tours from Las Vegas.

7. Valley of Fire, one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Valley of Fire State Park
• Duration:  4-6 hours
• Price:  $119
• Description:  Take an easy, moderate, or challenging guided hike through the Valley of Fire. Explore the red rock formations, boulders, and plateaus of the park while searching for prehistoric rock art.

8. Zion & Bryce Canyon day trips from Las Vegas

You could spend a couple of days   visiting Zion National Park  and another   day in Bryce Canyon , but if time is limited, I recommend one of the  national park tours from Las Vegas .  This guided tour  will introduce you to the natural wonders of  Zion National Park  and  Bryce Canyon , making it one of the best  day trips from Las Vegas .

Zion has gorgeous hiking trails, like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and The Subway, a picturesque passageway. The Emerald Pool Trail is a family-friendly trail with turquoise pools and waterfalls. In Bryce Canyon, you can explore the famous hoodoos and fascinating rock formations like Thor’s Hammer and Queen Victoria.

Check our guides to best day trips to Zion from Las Vegas and best tours to Bryce from Las Vegas for more ideas.

8. Zion & Bryce Canyon, one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks
• Duration:  13 hours
• Price: $185
• Description:  This  Las Vegas bus tour begins with a visit to Zion National Park, where you can witness the immense beauty of the red sandstone cliffs and mountains. Then, head to Bryce Canyon for a short hike through the hoodoos.

9. Red Rock Canyon, a great excursion in Las Vegas

This tour  to  Red Rock Canyon  is another popular  day tour from Las Vegas . You’ll depart from the Strip and take a ride along the 13-mile scenic loop to the conservation area. There, you can witness the desert landscape, flora, and ancient rock art. Your tour guide will stop at several picturesque spots, including Wilson Cliffs, Calico Hills, and Red Springs.

If you want to check other options, check our guide to the 5 best tours to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas.

9. Red Rock Canyon, another interesting excursion in Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
• Price: $113
• Description:  Discover the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon on this  Las Vegas tour , stopping for photos at several impressive viewpoints.

10. Black Canyon, Las Vegas kayak tours

Nearby  Black Canyon  is a wonderful  day trip from Las Vegas , especially if you want to get active in a scenic location. It’s also one of the best places for a  Las Vegas kayak tour , and I recommend  this kayaking trip   with hotel pick-up and drop-off. You’ll head to Willow Beach, where you’ll get suited up to kayak through the grottoes of Emerald Cave.

Along the way, you’ll kayak on a portion of the Colorado River that runs through the Black Canyon, surrounded by the natural flora, fauna, and interesting geological formations of the area.

10. Black Canyon, one of the most popular Las Vegas kayak tours

• Highlights:  Willow Beach, kayaking on the Colorado River, Emerald Cave
• Duration:  4 hours
• Price: $133
• Description:  See beautiful Willow Beach before kayaking along the Colorado River and through Emerald Cave.

11. The Strip from the air, the best Las Vegas night tour

The  helicopter tours in Las Vegas   are some of the most magical tours you can take. It’s one of the top  things to do in Las Vegas at night , so I recommend   this flight  over the Vegas nightlife. You’ll fly over the most famous landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains, Luxor pyramid, Stratosphere Tower, and the Paris Hotel, all while listening to a guided narration. This is one of the coolest  Las Vegas Strip tours , and you can even add a dinner option to make it extra special.

• Highlights:  Fly over the downtown Vegas and the Strip at night
• Duration:  15 minutes
• Description:  Strap in for an exciting nighttime flight over the Strip. Get a birds-eye view of iconic sights like The Mirage, The Venetian, New York-New York, and more.

12. Los Angeles Escape, Hollywood tour from Las Vegas

Ideally, you’ll spend a few days in Los Angeles , but if you’re short on time, you can take a  Hollywood tour from Las Vegas . This  Hollywood day trip   takes you through the Joshua tree forests to LA, where you’ll walk past some of the most memorable film locations. Visit Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Kodak Theater terrace, where you’ll have sweeping views of the Hollywood sign.

12. Los Angeles Escape, the best Hollywood tour from Las Vegas

• Highlights:  Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Duration:  14-15 hours
• Price: $247
• Description:  Get the Hollywood treatment and visit some of the top Los Angeles landmarks on one of the  best day trips from Las Vegas .

13. Area 51, a unique day trip from Las Vegas

Area 51  is a wonderland for anyone interested in aliens and the paranormal, and it’s just a few hours from Vegas. This  full-day trip   is a good   Area 51 tour from Las Vegas  and includes a visit to the so-called “Janet Airlines” at McCarran airport and the mysterious Black Mailbox for UFO enthusiasts seeking alien contact. This  Las Vegas bus tour  also travels along the Extraterrestrial Highway and right up to the perimeter of the world’s most top-secret military facility.

• Highlights:  Black Mailbox, “Janet Airlines”, Little A’le’ Inn
• Duration:  10 hours
• Price: $205
• Description:  Take one of the most curious  day trips from Las Vegas  and see Area 51, stopping at several legendary sites in the UFO community.

14. El Dorado Canyon, the best ATV tour from Las Vegas

El Dorado Canyon  in nearby Clark County, NV is famous for its silver and gold mines, and this  ATV day trip  is the perfect  Las Vegas tour  that explores the area. Go off-roading through the desert and visit the most remote parts of the canyon, such as the old Techatticup mine and desolate back canyons. This  adventure tour from Las Vegas  is not only exhilarating but educational as well.

• Highlights:  ATV or UTV ride, El Dorado Canyon, Techatticup gold mine
• Duration:  5 hours
• Price: $169
• Description:  Hop on an ATV and drive through remote back canyons to the famous El Dorado Canyon gold mines. Vegas hotel pick-up and drop-off is included.

15. Monument Valley and nearby wonders, a great 3-day Las Vegas tour

We visited  Monument Valley   during our   10-day West Coast road trip  and it was one of the best  Las Vegas excursions  we took. This   3-day trip  is ideal if you have time to spend a few days exploring the area. You’ll start with a visit to  Red Rock Canyon , then take a Navajo-led Jeep tour through Monument Valley, followed by a trip to  Horseshoe Bend . The last day includes a visit to the beautiful  Antelope Canyon , followed by a stop at the  Valley of Fire  before returning to Vegas.

• Highlights:  Red Rock Canyon, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Valley of Fire
• Duration:  3 days
• Price: $540
• Description: This complete 3-day  tour from Las Vegas  takes you through the stunning red rock formations and desert landscapes of Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and Valley of Fire.

Those are all the  day trips from Las Vegas  that I recommend! I tried to include a  Las Vegas excursion  for all interests and budgets, so let me know what you think. If you have any questions or you’d like to suggest another  Las Vegas tour , leave a comment and I’ll get back to you!

Happy trails!

Ascen Aynat

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Las vegas travel guides, book your vacation, best day trips from las vegas.

Las Vegas may be an oasis in the Nevada desert, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the only thing to do. Las Vegas is the epicenter for tons of fantastic destinations outside the city limits, from modern marvels to nature's most beautiful creations . So buckle up and pack your road trip snacks because here’s our list of the best day trips from Las Vegas starting with the nearest to the farthest.

RED ROCK CANYON

The ultimate in outdoor Las Vegas excursions, Red Rock Canyon is a gorgeous, coppery conservation area filled with natural wonder. Over 26 hiking trails span the canyon and range from casual strolls to strenuous uphill climbs, but all of them will lead you to beautiful destinations. Make sure to keep an eye out for desert wildflowers in bloom from late March to early May. A must-see in the area are the petroglyphs, only a short trek from the Willow Springs Picnic Area, the drawings are estimated to be over 800 years old.

VALLEY OF FIRE

This state park of geological marvels is just under an hour away from Sin City, making it one of the best places to visit by car. The unique landscape was created by shifting dunes over 150-million years ago and gets its name from the striking Aztec sandstone that appears to be set ablaze in direct sunlight. This prehistoric land features 2,500-year-old petroglyphs, geological marvels and even dinosaur bones that will have any rock-lover dying to explore. If you need suggestions on what to see first, we recommend the iconic Fire Wave Trail, Elephant Rock, or the petroglyph-covered Atlatl Rock.

A day pass is only $10, which gets you access to the entire park for hiking, rock climbing, or just driving through scenic views. If you want to camp out and see the stars, it’s only $20 for a tent or $30 for a full hook-up. Valley of Fire is the perfect outdoor destination for your vacation. Snap a few picks of this place, and you'll have the whole office jealous.

The Hoover Dam is one of mankind’s most ambitious projects. It stands at a whopping 726-feet tall and crosses the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona. Bonus, it’s just a hop, skip and a jump away from the dazzling lights of Las Vegas.

Choose from either the 30-minute or 1-hour guided tour that takes you into the bowels of the dam to learn about the power it generates and what it does for the surrounding desert. Don’t want a tour? It’s free to walk along the top and take in the scenery, plus you can still learn a thing or two with the many informative plaques lining the walkway.

There is paid parking right next to the visitor’s center and free parking on the Arizona side if you don’t mind a bit of a trek.

Bonus stop: Once you’re done touring the Hoover Dam, head into Boulder City for even more fun. One of the most historic locations in the area, this charming small town was the booming epicenter of the region during the 1930s. You can visit the Nevada State Railroad Museum, explore the many antique stores, like Goatfeathers Emporium in the downtown area or get a glimpse into classic Hollywood horror with Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum. The Boulder Dam Brewing Co. is also worth a stop, and then you’ll want to fill your belly at one of the city’s many restaurants.

If you want to turn this day trip into an overnight stay, the elegant Boulder Dam Hotel was built in 1933 and was the premiere spot for many celebrities during the dam’s construction. Watch out for spirits during your stay, reports of ghostly hands grabbing tourists and mysterious music make this not only one of the grandest hotels in Boulder City but also one of the spookiest.

GRAND CANYON

This canyon is massive, like 1,902 square miles massive, so it would take months to explore it in its entirety. The West Rim is not only the closest to Sin City, but it’s also the perfect tourist-friendly destination to explore the canyon in all of its glory for a single day.

The West Rim boasts the glass-bottomed Skywalk, an adrenaline-pumping zip line, and tons of restaurants to grab some great food and gorgeous views.

This section of the Grand Canyon is located on sacred Native American grounds and they have included a cultural center for anyone who wants to learn more about the Hualapai people.

They offer free parking and shuttle service to the West Rim gates, but no parking is allowed inside the reservation.

If you have some extra time, you can get your kicks on historic Route 66 in Peach Springs, Arizona. From there, you can explore the Grand Canyon Caverns or go whitewater rafting down the Colorado River. Don’t forget to bring back a souvenir from the Historic Peach Springs Trading Post!

7 MAGIC MOUNTAINS

If you’ve ever taken the long drive from Los Angeles to Vegas, you may have seen seven tall neon figures looming in the distance. This collection of brightly-colored boulders is an art installation called the 7 Magic Mountains.

Created in 2016 by Swedish artist Ugo Rondinone, this piece is meant to be the symbolic mid-way between the natural and the artificial. The artificial day-glow colors stand out against the stark desert landscape and the nearby freeway. Each boulder was created by blowing up rocks in the nearby Apex Quarry and hoping that the right sizes emerged from the rubble. In total, 33 boulders and five years were needed to create this $3 million dollar exhibition.

Built on public property and its stay extended until 2021, this gorgeous monument is free for anyone to enjoy so head on out to the desert and snap a few selfies. Every image of this bright sculpture is Instagram-worthy.

The Nevada desert isn't known for its large bodies of water, but believe it or not Las Vegas is home to one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.

So if you're looking for some waterfront fun, Lake Mead has got you covered. Take the boat out for some high-speed adventures or bike around the trails before cooling off in one of the swimming areas.

If you want someone else to show you around, there are tons of guided tours on the lake. So sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning views of this desert oasis.

Not enough for you? They also have kayaking, camping, hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, scuba diving and so much more.

MOUNT CHARLESTON

Snow? In Las Vegas? Impossible! And yet it isn’t. Mount Charleston , just outside the city limits, has a layer of the fluffy stuff every year for visitors to enjoy. There is even the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort so you can hit the slopes. For playing in the snow, the best options are the Foxtail Picnic Area or the Old Mill Picnic Area. They both have tons of parking, heated bathrooms (so you don’t freeze to the seat) and cozy fire pits. They also have concession stands that sell sleds, gloves and hot cocoa to warm yourself after intense snowball fights.

Mount Charleston isn't just a great day trip from Las Vegas during the winter. The mountain also has hiking, horseback riding and tons of camping opportunities. In the fall, we recommend you visit Gilcrease Orchard on your way down the mountain. This is where the locals go for apple and pumpkin picking while enjoying their homemade apple cider. If you’re dying to beat the desert heat, Mount Charleston is the way to go.

Do you hear the “X-Files” theme song in your head at all times? Do you have an alien abduction story? Does the name Roswell fill you with both anger and excitement? If so, then Area 51 may be your perfect day trip spot. Well technically you can’t visit Area 51, being a closed military base and all that, but you can get pretty darn close. Here’s a fun fact, local Las Vegans who work at Area 51 board a plane each day at McCarran Airport to get to and from the office. Talk about an interesting commute, huh? At least they save on gas money.

The city of Rachel, Nevada is your home base to a facility that has always been shrouded in mystery. Located down the Extraterrestrial Highway , this tiny town of only 54 residents is your gateway to the great unknown. Their local watering hole, The Little A Le Inn Bar and Motel, serves the world-famous “alien burger” and has tons of options for an out-of-this-world souvenir. For more alien-themed adventures, head farther down the highway to the Alien Research Center, where you can get the facts on Area 51. You’ll know you’re there when you see the giant silver alien out front.

DEATH VALLEY

It may be called Death Valley , but this national park is teeming with life and entertainment. Keep an eye out for coyotes, bighorn sheep or foxes while you hike along the miles of trail or sit and enjoy the blooming desert wildflowers in the spring. You can even bring your furry friend on a walk with you down the scenic roads, on leash of course.

Are you a Star Wars fan? You can visit Tatooine all around Death Valley to see the Hollywood filming spots for Episodes IV and VI. But if you really want a view of a galaxy far, far away you have to stay until nightfall. Certified as the third International Dark Sky Park, Death Valley has some of the darkest skies in the world making it the best place to go stargazing. You can even spend the night in the park with both hotels and campsites available year-round. Though a word of caution, the summer months are HOT with nightly temperatures still being over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so we recommend going in the fall or spring for the best conditions.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

This beautiful national park’s name means ‘heavenly city,’ and once you step foot inside the gates, you’ll understand why the name is so fitting. The ethereal landscape is the home of striking geological features, diverse wildlife and all kinds of outdoor recreation. Start your journey by driving down the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, where you can see dramatic views of the landscape from high above the valley. Observation areas line the entirety of the highway, and you can find easy parking for the Canyon Overlook Trail, a one-mile hike perfect for a quick adventure. If you don’t want to miss any of the highlights, the park offers a shuttle bus to take visitors on the best route, so you can easily choose the landmarks you are dying to visit.

For avid hikers, Zion National Park varies from the paved Riverside Walk to the strenuous, like the 8-mile Observation Point trail that gives visitors a fantastic view of Angel’s Landing and the Virgin River. Another must-see is the Emerald Pools, featuring natural waterfalls that cascade down three levels surrounded by lush forest. This area is said to be one of the most tranquil at the park and one of the most beautiful.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

This one is for the real road warriors. If outdoorsy adventures are your thing, why not also visit the pink canyons and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon ? This national park in Utah is perfect for year-round fun, and with tons of hiking, camping, and snowshoeing. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as Bryce Canyon is home to a wide variety of plants and animals like pronghorn deer, prairie dogs and mountain lions. If you're quiet and careful, you may get a snapshot to bring home as a souvenir.

They even have multiple festivals throughout the year. The annual geology festival in July takes visitors through the fantastic geological wonders and fossils found within the park. Perfect for a family vacay, they offer guided hikes, painting and tons of exhibits to learn the history of this otherworldly landscape. If you’re more of a night owl, their astronomy festival is unparalleled. During the day, the kiddies can build model rockets to launch into the sky as well as listen to keynote speakers like top NASA astrologists. But at night, the party really starts to liven up when they assemble the telescope field. Guests can view the stars up close and listen to stories in the large outdoor amphitheater.

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The 17 Best Day Trips From Las Vegas for Every Style of Adventure

If you’re interested in taking some day trips from Las Vegas, you’re in luck! Its proximity to national parks and other attractions gives you many options.

A trip to Las Vegas, Nevada promises to be filled with plenty of glitz, glamor, and maybe even a touch of adventure! From the bustling casino floors to the grandiose architecture and the showstopping events and performances, there is something exciting to do at all hours of the day there!

While a spin around Sin City is sure to be a treat, sometimes it is nice to escape the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip and take a look at what lies around it. Some of the most beautiful scenery in the southwest USA, including many national parks and jaw-droppingly beautiful natural wonders, is lying right outside Vegas’ doorstep and is just waiting to be explored! Las Vegas sits at the corner of Nevada, Utah, California, and Arizona and you can basically head off in every direction and you will find something awesome!

There is a mind-boggling array of destinations for day trips and there truly is something for every type of traveler. Below you will find some great day trips from Las Vegas. If you have a bit more flexibility timewise, you can easily link many of these destinations together to create an epic road trip covering the southwestern United States. Make sure to check out our guides to the best national parks and hiking trails in the United States .

Expert Tip: If you are considering visiting many of the national parks on this list, you may want to consider picking up a National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass . These passes give access to more than 2,000 national parks and recreation areas around the US and cost only $80 which can end up saving you a lot of money in the long run and may even make you more inclined to visit some of the lesser-known parks 

Las Vegas Day Trips for Outdoor Adventurers

1. grand canyon national park.

Distance: 126 miles – 290 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours (West Rim) – 4 hours (South Rim)

Undoubtedly one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon needs no introduction. This magnificent geographical feature is one of the biggest canyons in the world and as you look nearly a mile down into the canyon as the Colorado River, you can see a colorful display of rock highlighting millions of years of history. While many people just go and admire the view at the top, there are also plenty of great activities that you can do there including hiking, camping, and white water rafting. There are also miles of scenic drives that you can take that allow you to get up close and personal with the park’s other-worldly landscape.

Getting to the Grand Canyon is relatively straightforward. You can rent a car in Las Vegas and drive there and where you go really depends on how much time you have to spare (and how many hours you feel like being in a car in one day!

The Grand Canyon West Rim is about a two-hour drive from Las Vegas where you can do the Skywalk which extends 70 feet out over the canyon allowing you to look 4,000 feet down. You don’t get to see the colorful bands of rock that the Grand Canyon is famous for but it is perfect if you are short on time but still want to get a glimpse of it.

If you want to see the “postcard” view of the Grand Canyon then the South Rim is where it’s at! This is where you will find the most dramatic of the canyon’s scenery as well as many of the outdoor activities. 

If you don’t want to drive yourself, there are plenty of day tours that you can choose from where you can climb aboard a comfy bus that will transport you there and back making stops along the way at tourist hotspots like the Hoover Dam and Route 66 while still giving you plenty of time to explore the canyon itself. Make sure to shop around when it comes to booking a tour as you may be able to find some really good deals throughout the year.

While taking a commercial flight to the Grand Canyon isn’t really an option, you can still get there via helicopter with helicopter tour packages that include round-trip transportation from many hotels in the city to the departure point near the Las Vegas airport. This kills two birds with one stone so to speak as you save a lot of the driving time by taking a helicopter flight and you get to see the canyon from the air which as you can imagine is an incredible sight to see!

Understandably, the Grand Canyon is one of the most popular natural attractions in the USA so it is a good idea to avoid visiting on weekends and school holidays if you want to miss the crowds. 

2. Hoover Dam

Distance: 37 miles

Travel Time: 45 minutes 

Built in the 1930s, this massive concrete arch-gravity dam is located in the Black Canyon right on the border of Arizona and Nevada and was built to help control flooding by impounding Lake Mead, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. If that isn’t already pretty impressive enough, the adjacent power plant also generates electricity for California, Arizona, and Nevada.

The Hoover Dam is considered a marvel of engineering and it is fascinating to see. There are three different levels of tours that you can do while you are there starting with the visitor center and observation deck going all the way up to the guided tour which takes you through the historic tunnels and whisks you up in the dam’s original elevator 773 feet to the top of the structure. The Hoover Dam is located just less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas near Boulder City, making it an easy day trip that can have you back on the Strip in time for dinner. 

3. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Distance: 28 miles

Travel Time: 35 minutes

This enormous recreation area is home not only to Lake Mead and Lake Mojave, both of which were created by the creation of dams, but also to three out of four of America’s desert ecosystems including the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin Desert, and the Sonoran Desert. While you are there, you can escape from the hot Nevada heat with a swim in the lake or head out for a boat ride. You can also check out St. Thomas, a mid-19th century ghost town that was submerged by the creation of Lake Mead in the 1930s. Water levels have dropped since then and the town has re-emerged and you can wander through the ruins of the town. There isn’t a huge amount left beside the foundations, but it’s still an interesting spot to explore. 

4. Death Valley National Park

Distance: 149 miles

Travel Time: 2 ¼ hours

 Located in eastern California, this desert valley is one of the hottest places on earth during the summer. It is also the lowest and driest national park in the United States. The park is crisscrossed by more than 100 miles of roads which is perfect for exploring the incredible diversity of the landscape and wildlife. From the salt flats of Badwater Basin to the odd moving rocks of Racetrack Playa, you may be tricked into believing you are on another planet! While you are there, make sure to see visit Zabriskie Point, one of the most popular and striking vistas in the park. 

Death Valley has been used as a filming location for a number of movies and TV shows including Star Wars: A New Hope , Spartacus , Tarzan , and The Twilight Zone . While you are there, you can relive your favorite movie scenes, go for a hike or bike ride. If you have enough time, you can even stay overnight in the park. 

5. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Distance: 16 miles

Travel Time: 20 minutes

This expansive Mojave Desert park is located just a hop, skip, and a jump from Las Vegas and is overflowing with fascinating rock formations lined with red bands, soaring sandstone peaks, and ancient Native American petroglyphs. There are more than 30 miles of hiking trails that allow you to get a closer look at the sights. If you don’t feel like hoofing it, there is the 13 mile Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive that takes you through the canyon which gives you a chance to check out the unique landscape, wildlife, and plants from the comfort of your air-conditioned car. It is also a popular spot for mountain biking and rock climbing. 

Some of the most popular attractions in the park are the Calico Basin and the Keystone Thrust Trail where the Pacific and North American continental plates meet offering amazing views of the surrounding Calico Hills. If you plan on hitting this, or any of the other trails, make sure to start off early in the morning and bring plenty of water with you as it can get pretty miserable if you get caught out by the hot Nevada sun. 

6. Zion National Park

Distance: 160 miles 

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

With steep red cliffs that are perfect for hiking and climbing, waterfalls, rock pools, and more, Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Utah. Like the other national and state parks nearby, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from ranging from family-friendly hikes to the fear-inducing ascent to Angels Landing which leaves visitors scrambling up an incredibly steep ascent with just a chain bolted to the side of the mountain to help you. If you want to cool down after a hike, you can head over to the Emerald Pools, a series of oases in the middle of the desert fringed by thick vegetation, red rock monoliths, and soothing waterfalls. The pools are easily accessible by people of all ages making this a great family-friendly option. 

At just over two and a half hours away, it is doable as a long day trip, if you want to make an overnight trip out of it, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. 

7. Bryce Canyon National Park

Distance: 26 miles 

Travel Time: 4 hours

Located in southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its pinkish hoodoos. The canyon itself is actually a collection of natural amphitheaters spreading more than 20 miles along the Paunsaugunt Plateau (amusingly, “paunsaugunt” means “home of the beaver.” Hiking trails ranging from one mile to the challenging, 23-mile Under the Rim Trail and other outdoor activities abound or you can take an 18-mile scenic drive that leads you to the highest spot in the park, Rainbow Point. If you don’t have a huge amount of time but want to see as much of the park as possible, there are plenty of great viewpoints strategically located throughout the park. 

If you have a bit of time to spare, try to spend the night there as not only is it a great place to explore during the day but Bryce Canyon also provides a great opportunity for star-gazing thanks to the inky black night skies which make you feel like you are swimming in twinkling stars. 

8. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance: 260 miles  

Joshua Tree National Park lies between the Mojave and Colorado deserts and features two distinct ecosystems as well as a fascinating range of unique plants, such as the twisted, prickly Joshua Tree which gives the park its name, and wildlife that somehow survive in this harsh climate despite all odds. 

The park will definitely make hikers swoon, thanks to 300 miles of hiking trails! They range from the family-friendly Oasis of Mara trail to the eight-mile Boy Scout Trail. If you want to try and tackle some of the longer multi-day trails, plan an overnight stay at one of the campgrounds 

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track (literally!), you can go backpacking or mountain biking, through the backcountry, This is another great spot for stargazing and they are blessed with magnificent sunrises so if you have the time, it is really worth spending the night there. 

9. Valley of Fire State Park

Distance : 45 miles

Travel Time: 46 minutes

Known for its fiery red Aztec sandstone outcrops that were formed by shifting sand dunes millions of years ago, the Valley of Fire State Park is located in the Mojave Desert and is just a short drive from Sin City. The red stone is blended with tan and grey colored limestone creating a swirling design that looks like it is straight out of a Williams-Sonoma catalog. 

There are a number of great hikes available including the popular White Dome Trail that offers some incredibly stunning vistas in between leading you through hidden caves and mesmerizing slot canyons. The trail does all that in just under one mile making it a great option for hikers of all ages. 

While you are walking, keep an eye out for some of the park’s unique flora and fauna. There is also an 11-mile scenic byway connecting both entrances of the park. 

One of the best times to explore Valley of Fire State Park is at sunset and there are well-equipped campgrounds located within the park in case you decide to make a night of it!

10. Antelope Canyon

Distance : 278 miles

Travel Time: 4.5 hours

This spectacular slot canyon in northern Arizona resembles a giant stone wave thanks to its winding, sandstone walls stretching 120 high above the floor of the canyon. As you walk through the canyon, light beams trickle down, giving the canyon an ethereal glow and creating a photographer’s paradise. 

As Antelope Canyon is part of the Navajo Nation, you must book a guided tour with a certified tour company. Tours are roughly around an hour and a half long so you may want to combine this with another nearby attraction like Horseshoe Bend and the Glen Canyon National Recreational Area to balance out the driving time with more activity time.

11. Horseshoe Bend

Travel time: 4.5 hours

While Horseshoe Bend has long been a popular attraction to check out, the rise of social media has made this place soar in popularity and it seems like everyone and his/her brother are traveling there. It is now one of the most photographed national wonders in the American southwest!

One of the best times to visit is in the early morning before dawn or during sunrise, if you want to capture the spot at its most colorful. The viewing point is located right outside of the Glen Canyon Recreation Area where you can park your car. 

12. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

  Distance : 278 miles

Located adjacent to Horseshoe Bend and nearby Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is home to the massive Lake Powell where you can kayak, go boating, and fish as well as plenty of trail and road options for hiking, biking, and even ATV riding. 

13. Mount Charleston

Distance: 39 miles

Travel Time: 48 minutes

While Mount Charleston is not as well-known as the other places on this list, it may actually be the most surprising. This snow-covered, yes, snow in Vegas, is located just outside of the city limits and even has its own ski field with 20 groomed trails. During the spring, summer, and fall, you can also go hiking, horseback riding, or camping. Mount Charleston is located within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, which sits (seemingly awkwardly) smack dab in the middle of the desert. 

Las Vegas Day Trips for Urban Explorers

14. los angeles, california.

Distance: 270 miles

Travel Time : 4 ¼ hours (depending on traffic)

If you are ready for some more urban exploration, you can hop in the car and drive to Los Angeles to see the bright lights of Tinseltown. Sightseeing opportunities abound in the City of Angels. From the star-studded areas of Beverly Hills and Hollywood to the endless array of top-notch museums and performance venues, there is something for every culture vulture and if you are looking for some Vitamin Sea, you can head out to one of the many wonderful beaches such as Santa Monica and Venice Beach. 

If you want to learn more about all of the great things to do in Los Angeles, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Guide to the Best Things To Do in Los Angeles . While you’re at it, grab tickets to one of our L.A. scavenger hunts ! They’ll have you racing your nearest and dearest through the streets of LA trying to find every stop. These adventures are a great way to learn more about a city and make memories along the way!

15. 7 Magic Mountains

Distance: 25 minutes

Travel Time : 35 minutes 

While the interesting choice of name may make you think that you are going to an amusement park, the 7 Magic Mountains is actually an art installation created using brightly colored boulders taken from the nearby Apex Quarry. They have been stacked on top of one another to create mountains that stand out in stark contrast to the desert landscape. The mountains are located right off of the highway making them incredibly easy to access and since there is no guarantee as to how long they will stand, this is one thing that you, and your Instagram followers, simply don’t want to miss!

16. Area 51, Nevada

Distance: 150 miles

Travel Time : 2 ¼ hours

Many of us grew up watching movies like ET and may have found ourselves wondering if there really was life outside of Earth. Well, you can feed your curiosity a little bit more with a trip to Roswell and the infamous Area 51. This highly classified Air Force facility obviously doesn’t let in visitors but you can explore the surrounding area and let out your inner-Mulder or Scully. 

You can either take a drive down the Extraterrestrial Highway to the town of Rachel and take plenty of fun photos at all of the alien-themed signage and visit the Alien Research Center or join a day tour from Las Vegas stopping at some interesting attractions along the way. 

17. Nelson, Nevada

Distance : 43 miles

Travel Time : 40 minutes

Located in the stunning Eldorado Canyon, this area was once home to the oldest, and richest gold mine in southern Nevada as well as all of the debaucheries that came along with it. While it may be hard to tell from the charming, laid-back town that you see today, You can now visit the Techatticup Mine that once drew so many prospective miners to the town on a guided tour which gives a fascinating look back into this important time period in America’s history.

Ready to Roam?

We hope that this list has given you some inspiration as to what to visit on your upcoming Las Vegas trip! As you can see, there are plenty of great options located within about a four hours’ drive from the Las Vegas strip that give you a little taste of what the southwestern region of the United States has to offer visitors. 

If you need more activities, check out this Ultimate List of Things to do in Las Vegas ! And make sure to keep your eyes on our explorer blog to find a sea of articles written by our in-house expert travelers!

Frequently Asked Questions

The best day trips from Las Vegas include the Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree National Park, and Area 51. With its proximity to several national parks , there are ample opportunities for outdoor adventure!

If you need a short day trip from Las Vegas , head to Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam. If you have more time, consider visiting Bryce Canyon National Park or Zion National Park.

While you’re in Vegas with your family, head out on a scavenger hunt , or choose one of these amazing day trips from Las Vegas to experience some of the nearby national parks and other attractions.

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15 best day trips from las vegas – a local’s guide.

Okay, so there’s technically a lot of places under a 24 hour drive, but this list will summarize all the best day trips from Las Vegas that are feasible to do within 1 day! AKA less than 5 hours of driving… because NOBODY  wants to drive more than 5 hours + sight-seeing in a day. Am I right?!

Being a Las Vegas local (who is rarely born AND raised) , I have done many of these day trips several times! I will honestly tell you if I feel they are worth the long drive or not!

Pssst… Before you plan your trip to Las Vegas, I found a few resources I think you’ll love:

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• 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary!

There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links . I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that goes directly towards little Rosie’s dog treats!

What to Pack for a Road Trip

Before we dive into the guide, I always like to recommend a few “must-have’s” for the specific itinerary. I have done SO many road trips (exhibit A , B & C ), that I am confident you will regret not bringing these goodies!

1. Good pair of Sunglasses 

Getting a good pair of sunglasses is such a priority for a long road trip! If you are driving, you are constantly glaring at the road and the sun beating off your dashboard. Finding a pair of polarized sunglasses is crucial for any road trip! Click here for a really cute pair !

2. GPS for when you don’t have service

I don’t think you always need a GPS, especially when you have an I-Phone with reliable maps, but in certain areas you loose all your service. For example, Valley of Fire State Park (mentioned in this guide), you loose service before you even enter the park! If you are trying to find an exact locations or hiking spot, you may want something that is more reliable than an I-Phone. Click here for an affordable GPS !

3. USA National Park Booklet

This is such a fun thing to read during the road trip or on the plane ride to your destination. I feel like this gets you in the traveling mood and sparks a lot of inspiration. Click here to check it out !

4. Hand Sanitizer 

Okay, I know this sounds weird to think of but I truly feel like this is a must-have on a road trip. Doesn’t it make you cringe thinking about all the gas station and national park bathrooms you’ll be going in?! YUCK..

Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

1. antelope canyon / horseshoe bend (4.5 hours).

The longest drive on this list, but by far the best day trip from Las Vegas. Antelope canyon and Horseshoe bend are within minutes of each other so you get the chance to see two world wonders in one trip. I did an entire 3 day itinerary on this trip , but you can easily do it in one day if you go with someone else.

After hiking and a long drive, you’ll want to make sure you either stay the night or have the opportunity to switch off driving with someone else.

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon that is broken up into two sections, “Lower Antelope Canyon” and “Upper Antelope Canyon.” Creative right?  This is by far the most photographed canyon in the southwest due to its smooth, flowing, sandstone walls. If you plan to make a weekend out of this, check out my guide on Kayaking to Antelope Canyon!

Horseshoe bend is a portion of the Grand Canyon where the river carves the canyon into the shape of, you guessed it, a horseshoe ! Stay to watch the breathtaking sunset, grab some dinner at the few restaurants in Page , and have plenty of time to drive back to Las Vegas.

Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe Bend

2. Grand Canyon (2 hours)

You have a few options here: The Grand Canyon is a HUGE stretch that is nearly 2,000 miles long. There are several different lookout points that people refer to them as “rims.”

The closest rim to Las Vegas is the West rim, which is only a short 2 hour drive, making this easy & one of the most popular day trips from Vegas! This rim is known to be the least impressive (if you’ve never seen the Grand Canyon before, it is still absolutely incredible). Because it’s the closest to Las Vegas, it’s the most touristy rim because there are tour buses, helicopter tours and plane tours shuffling people in every hour! If you prefer to do a tour, Viator has great options that give you the option to bundle with other Las Vegas attractions. You can find those here .

If you chose to go to the other rims, It is 5+ hours each way making it a brutal day trip. You’ll definitely want to make a weekend out of it if you choose to see the other rims. Hotels can be costly and you will need to plan far in advance because there are not many!

I visited the West Rim during sunset and it was truly magical. I’ve never seen the other rims to compare it to, but I can’t ever imagine myself saying the West Rim wouldn’t be worth the drive. 

It costs $45.00 to enter the Hualapai Land. When you get there, you’ll get on a shuttle and they will take you to 2 different lookout points. If you aren’t afraid to drive at night, I would HIGHLY recommend going for sunset!

3. Hoover Dam (45 minutes)

If you are going to the Grand Canyon, this is on the way! The Hoover Dam is only a short 45 minutes away from the city. You can either do the free bridge lookout, or you can drive into the museum and do a tour.

The Hoover Dam is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and has a lot of history to it. If you’re a history buff, then I would definitely opt in for the tour . Otherwise, the bridge lookout is impressive, free and quick!

To get to the free bridge lookout, look for the signs that say Hoover Dam Access Road. Take the exit for the Hoover Dam and go through the security check point. You should reach the parking lot soon after that and it will be on the right hand side.

4. Lake Mead (45 minutes)

If you’re making your way down the Hoover Dam, you will also see Lake Mead. Being one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, there is so much to do! You can rent boats, go on a dinner cruise , paddle board, check out some of the many beaches, jet ski, or do a kayaking tour to the hot springs along the lake!

I would recommend going in the summer, because the winter can get very cold. And if you’re in Las Vegas during the summer, you will definitely want to incorporate some water-filled activities!

Recommended Read: Things to do in Vegas besides gamble!

5. Valley of Fire (1 hour)

Valley of fire is a unique hiking experience that should NOT be done in the summer. Temperatures reach well over 100 degrees and there is minimal shade.  Being only an hour away from the city, you can see the beautiful red-rock formations. Think Red Rock Canyon’s big sister!

The most recommended and picturesque hike for Valley of Fire is the fire wave hike . You have likely heard of The Wave in Arizona that is extremely popular and has a very strict permit program (only 20 per day). This hike looks very similar, but you don’t need a permit to access it! If you want more ideas for scenic hikes, be sure to check out this guide on everything you need to know about Valley of Fire!

This was recommended on my girls guide to Las Vegas and my personal favorite day trip from Vegas! 🙂

Hey, like this photo!? It was edited in ONE CLICK using my “Earthy Preset Pack!”

6. Mount Charleston (1 hour)

Mount Charleston is a short 45 minutes away from Las Vegas and will give you cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery! If you are sick of the desert and want some greenery in your life, head up to Mt. Charleston for one of their endless hiking trails.

The most popular hike is Mary Jane Falls , which I have done this a few times and it is free, not too challenging, very easy to follow and ends with an amazing view!

If you are in Las Vegas during the winter months, you can head up to our ski resort, Lee Canyon , for snowboarding or skiing!

7. Zion National Park (2 hours and 30 minutes)

More hiking?! Yes, hopefully you can tell by now I like to hike! Zion is a little further for a hiking trip, 2.5 hours each way. But I can promise you it’s worth it!

The most famous hike in Zion is The Narrows  where you walk through a large, red canyon along a stream. This is perfect for the summer because even though it’s hot outside, the canyon provides a lot of shade and you are constantly wet with you feet in the river.

If you like to camp, there are endless camp sites either along the river or along other hiking paths. I’ve never camped there, because… I’m more of what you call a glamper. BUT I’ve heard great things about the camp sites there.

Click here to read my One Day Zion Itinerary, Perfect for First Timers!

This was recommended on my Utah National Parks Road Trip from Las Vegas Itinerary ! 🙂

8. Badwater Salt Flats (2 hours)

Located just 2 1/2 hours from Las Vegas, you can head over to Death Valley National Park . This is also not a good place to go in the summer, they do call it Death Valley for a reason!

Death Valley National Park has had a record high of 134 degrees and has the lowest elevation on the continent .

You could easily spend an entire weekend exploring Death Valley for all its unique viewpoints and hiking trails. While you are there, be sure to check out Zabriskie Point , Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Artist’s Palette . These spots PLUS SOME are included on my detailed guide: One Day in Death Valley!

Like how I edited this photo!? Click here to learn how to edit like me!

9. Area 51 (2 hours and 30 minutes)

For all you science fiction fans out there, you can check out Area 51 located in Lincoln County. Even though it has only been confirmed as a testing facility for air crafts and weapons, many people believe it ‘s a facility to study Extraterrestrial life (AKA Aliens).

To (kind of) access this, you will need to take Extraterrestrial highway. You can visit all of the neighboring towns, like Rachel , and see the quirky Alien decorated cafes. From there, you can drive all the way up to the military base gates.

Keep in mind, this is a top-secret, military facility. Be respectful and do not try to break in by any means .

10. Lake Havasu (2.5 Hours)

I’ve only been to Lake Havasu for College Spring Break, which I’m sure it’s just a tad different on a normal day, ha. During spring break, there were booze cruises full of drunk college kids and beach parties surrounding the entire lake, gooood times…

Anyways.. Lake Havasu is located in Arizona and is only a short 2 1/2 hour drive from Las Vegas. It’s filled with warm beaches, fun parties, tons of boats, water sports and several golf courses along the lake.

Just a few minute drive from the Lake, is a small city that has restaurants and shops. This is a fun day trip or even over night trip from Las Vegas because Lake Mead, is well… not the prettiest lake in the world. You can rent a boat, have a picnic out on the lake, sign up for some water sports and head back at a reasonable time.

11. Los Angeles & Hollywood (4 hours)

So this is pushing it a bit because driving 4 hours one way is a far drive! However, a lot of people travel from Europe wanting to see two famous cities in one trip so I thought I would include this one. Even though the drive is long in comparison to the other ones on this list, the “City of Angels” is an absolute must see.

Hollywood is a neighborhood within the large city of Los Angeles, California. Here you can walk on the same streets as some of the most famous people in the world! You can take a picture on the walk of fame with your favorite stars and visit historic music venues and theaters.

Once you venture out beyond Hollywood, you will find gorgeous beaches, perfect weather, celebrity spottings, amusement parks, great nightlife, history + more!

12. Pahrump Wine Tasting (1 hour)

Pahrump is a very small town located just 45 minutes from Las Vegas. They have a handful of family owned wineries with so much charm! If you’re going to go wine tasting, please make sure you don’t drink and drive. Get some food and go shopping for a few hours before driving back or there are plenty of tours that will take you there and back!

The best part about tasting wine in Pahrump is that both wineries are completely FREE. They will give you a free tour throughout their small properties and give you a free tasting! The two wineries are Pahrump Valley Winery and Sanders Family Winery . There is a third one in town as well (not free, but only $5) called Artesian Cellars !

Like this idea? This was mentioned on my Romantic Things to do in Vegas for Couples guide!

13. Brian Head (3 hours)

Brian head is a really great ski resort located in southern Utah, only 3 hours from Las Vegas. I have done day trips to go snowboarding up in Brian Head on countless occasions and the drive is very scenic. If you wake up early (like 5am), you can get to Brian Head by 8am and have a full day of snowboarding before having to drive back home.

TIP: If you stay the night, get a ski in/ ski out cabin and bring your dogs! Once the lifts close you can let your dogs run free on the slopes. SO. FREAKING. CUTE!

14. Sand Hollow Lake, St. George Utah (2 hours)

San Hollow is about 20 minutes outside of the town of St. George , which is located only 2 hours from Las Vegas. Not only is the drive reasonable, but it’s a beautiful drive! If you plan to head out to St. George, I would pair it with Valley of Fire (#4), because it is on the way.

When I think of Sand Hollow I think of red sandstone cliffs, sand dunes surrounding the lake, a long stretch of vibrant red sand, and tons of water sport rentals! My girlfriends and I have driven out for the day and brought wireless speakers, beer pong tables, a few cute floats , and a cooler to party on their beach.

I have also gone out with friends on Memorial Day weekend to rent a pontoon boat and it was SO much fun!

TIP: If you want to spend some time off the strip, but don’t want to drive hours away, check out this guide on best things to do off the strip!

15. Bryce Canyon (4 hours)

Bryce Canyon , located just 4 hours northeast of Las Vegas, is known for crimson-colored hoodoos. What are hoodoos you may ask? They are spire-shaped rock formations ranging in colors of deep red to gold.  The park’s main road leads past the expansive Bryce Amphitheater, which will give you one of the best desert views in the world.

Many people travel to Bryce Canyon for its desert wild life. If you keep on the lookout, you can try to spot snakes, deer, antelope, lizards, eagles, coyotes and even mountain lions!

TIP: If you plan to travel to Bryce Canyon, don’t miss my all time favorite hike, Navajo Loop Trail !

Click here to edit like I do using my one-click filters!

That’s a wrap! These are all my favorite places to travel to that aren’t too far from Las Vegas! It’s nice to have a little get-a-way without missing too much work. 

If you want to save this list of best day trips from Las Vegas, I can email you a map! Just fill out your info using the form below. 🙂

Want more guides on Las Vegas? Don’t forget to read these:

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Like this post pin it here 🙂.

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The 11 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas, Nevada

10/06/2022 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

Vegas is a destination in itself. The Strip has so much to offer, plus there are all of the gems just a stone’s throw from it. But if you’ve been many, many times like I have, or just want to get away from the madness, what are your options for day trips?

It’s not just scorched, boring desert out there. I was so impressed by the variety when I finally ventured off the Strip that now I hardly spend any time there, preferring to explore the beautiful and unique surroundings near Sin City. From the Hoover Dam to the Seven Magic Mountains and more, these are the best day trips from Las Vegas:

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Table of Contents

11. Valley of Fire

Easily one of the most enjoyable day trips from Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire is one of the most popular state parks in Nevada (apart from Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park , of course), and for good reason. It’s full of red, layered rock formations, great stargazing, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Entry costs $15 per vehicle.

Recommended time allotment

Located about 45 minutes east of the Strip, the Valley of Fire is best explored over at least a few hours. Although it’s ambitious, if you can get there prior to sunrise, you’ll get the park in its best light and with the fewest people. Plus, if it’s the summer months, you could be looking at triple-digit temperatures, so for your own safety, try to spend the early or late hours of the day here.

Best things to see

If you’ve seen the famous Wave in Arizona , you’ll be delighted to find that the Valley of Fire has its own colorful version. There’s also an elephant-shaped rock, and several hikes we recommend. Read more on our ultimate Valley of Fire guide .

10. Lake Mead

Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the US in terms of water capacity, and was created by the Hoover Dam. At the time of this writing, Lake Mead’s level is at an all-time low, exposing the “bath rings,” lighter colors created by mineral deposits under what is normally the water’s surface. This area is popular for scuba diving, hiking, boating, fishing, camping, biking, and more.

Located about 25 minutes east of the strip, Lake Mead can be a great option to cool off during the day. How much time you choose to spend comes down to whether you’re planning on hiking, picnicking, or doing any water activities. It can also be a nice, quick stop en route to or back from the Valley of Fire or Hoover Dam.

The 2.2-mile Owl Canyon hike offers some dramatic views and is rated as moderate. There are many in the area: check out more options here . If hiking isn’t your thing, consider renting a boat, kayak, or jet ski at one of the marinas.

9. Helicopter to the Grand Canyon

Though the west rim of the Grand Canyon is accessible as a day trip from Las Vegas, you’ll be spending most of your time in the car — it’s 2.5 hours each way. I much preferred flying to the Grand Canyon at sunset , which included a landing and champagne, plus being able to see Lake Mead and the gorgeous surroundings of Las Vegas on the way. Once we returned to the city, we got to see the Strip lit up as well!

You’ll need a few hours for this one, but they’ll be scenic and filled with photo opportunities as you sit back and enjoy the views. Though it’s a pricey activity, it’s a great way to see one of the most iconic national parks in the American West without renting a car or spending all day driving.

8. Seven Magic Mountains

The Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation just south of the Strip on the 15 freeway. Originally meant to be temporary, they become a permanent fixture thanks to their popularity. The installation, created by Michael Heizer and Jean Tinquely, is completely free, always open, and an easy, quick pit stop.

It only takes a few minutes to admire the Seven Magic Mountains. If you’re coming from Southern California, you’ll pass them on the 15 freeway as you enter the Las Vegas area.

7. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Another beautiful area outside of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon State Park has beautiful scenic drives, overlooks, hikes, and camping.

A few miles west of Las Vegas, this state park has timed entry, so be sure to  book your slot in advance to skip the queue, which can be quite long. Reservations are required form October to May, and the fee is $15 per vehicle. If you’re just doing the scenic drive, give yourself at least an hour to complete it. If you’d like to take your time and do some side hikes, Red Rock can easily take up an entire day.

Though best avoided during the peak heat hours of the summer months, there are several hikes , mountain-biking trails, off-road designated trails, and climbing opportunities. However most visitors just choose to do the scenic drive, stopping along the way at viewpoints and vistas.

6. Mt. Charleston

Believe it or not, you can ski just outside of Las Vegas! At nearly 12,000 feet, Charleston Peak is the highest in Clark County, offering great hiking when it’s not covered in snow.

It takes about an hour to reach Mt. Charleston from the Las Vegas Strip, and if you’re planning on skiing or hiking, you’ll probably choose to spend most of the day on the mountain.

This is one area where you’re likely to enjoy cooler temperatures in the summer months, making it one of the best warmer-weather hiking and mountain-biking destinations in the area. If you’ve never seen a Bristlecone pine tree before, the oldest living organism on earth, be sure to check out the Upper Bristlecone Trail. Enjoy the scenic drive and bring a picnic, or if visiting in the winter months, you can ski, sled, and snowshoe. Be sure to check out road conditions here .

5. Gold Strike Hot Spring

Close to the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, you’ll find a trailhead that takes you to the Gold Strike Hot Spring. It’s just as much about the journey as the destination, as the six-mile hike will make you scramble several times with fixed ropes, and includes an elevation gain of over 1,400 feet.

It takes about 45 minutes to get from the Strip to the trailhead, plus a few hours to hike and enjoy the springs. Though this is a strenuous hike, it’s popular, so head out early to avoid the crowds.

I’m a bit of a broken record here with the summertime warnings, but this hike is challenging, and is not recommended in the heat. Also, some hot springs in the area have dangerous amoebas in them, so dunking your head is not recommended.

4. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam was a feat of engineering during the Depression era. Its construction was no easy task, spanning several years and costing many lives to build. These days, it’s a quick pit stop on your way back from, or to, Arizona, as it straddles the state line.

It takes about 45 minutes to reach the Hoover Dam from the Strip. How much time you want to give this is subjective. It’s free to just drive on to the dam, park, and walk along the top, but you can also take a power plant tour or guided dam tour . (Personally I was pretty underwhelmed and only spent about 10 minutes here.) If you’re looking for a way to get there without renting a car, several Grand Canyon tours make a pit stop on the way.

3. Nelson Ghost Town

Did you know that Nevada has more ghost towns than live ones? After my disappointment with most of the buildings being fenced off at Rhyolite , I was excited to get an opportunity to explore another ghost town with a bit more freedom. This one is private, but it’s only $2 to enter. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and engagement photos.

It takes about an hour to reach Nelson Ghost Town from the Strip. How long you’ll want to spend depends entirely on how enthralled you are with ghost towns and how much photography you care to do. You might spend several hours and take the tour, or just 20 minutes or so wandering around. It’s worth mentioning that many of the other things to do on this list are quite far from Nelson, so it’s a destination in itself.

2. Death Valley

Death Valley is one of my absolute favorite places in California. Prepare to see all kinds of unique rock formations with varying colors, the lowest point in the US, and incredible stars. If visiting in the winter months, I recommend hiking here as well.

Death Valley is one of the farthest drives on this list from Las Vegas, at 2.5 hours. Still, some people choose to do it as a day trip, and if that’s all you’ve got, then give it all day if you possibly can.

The most famous features in the park are the Mesquite Flat sand dunes, the Painters Palette pictured above, the Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, and Zabriskie Point/Golden Canyon. If you have time to hike the Golden Canyon, I highly recommend it in the cooler months. Even then, you will want to get an early start, because it is uncovered and still manages to feel quite hot even in January. Read my complete guide to Death Valley here.

1. Area 51 Alien Center

The famed Area 51 outside of Las Vegas is thought to be hiding alien spacecraft, technology, and other top-secret findings of the otherworldly kind. Though the zone is completely sealed off, on the 95 freeway between Reno and Las Vegas , you can stop by the Area 51 Alien Center for some cheesy photo ops, the gas station, the café, the gift shop full of alien-themed trinkets, and even the brothel.

At an hour and a half from the Strip, this one will only make sense for true diehard A 51 fans, or those who are already passing by. If heading to Death Valley, you could make this a stop on the way.

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My fellow Nevada locals, what would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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30 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas (with Map)

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Do you want to take a breather from Las Vegas? Looking for exciting places worth exploring for the day?

Check out our selection of the best day trips from Las Vegas . Use our interactive map to see all the locations mentioned.

Get off the Strip and discover some of the most stunning scenery in Nevada and around.

1 – Valley of Fire State Park

Be aware that Valley of Fire State Park may become your favorite hike after you spend hours exploring its concealed canyons and caves.

These red rocks are also home to some of the oldest petroglyphs and remains of Native American civilizations, more than three thousand years old!

Valley of Fire is one of the most iconic sites in Nevada.

• Valley of Fire day trips from Las Vegas

2 – Mojave National Preserve

About 60 miles down South in California lies the iconic landscape of the Mojave National Preserve.

A rare ecosystem, the Mojave desert is yours to travel across.

Besides plant life, the gorgeous Ivanpah Valley offers a variety of landscapes including desert washes, volcanic cinder cones, rose-coloured dunes, and mile-high tops.

3 – Antelope Canyon

Another piece of majestic red rock formations, Antelope Canyon is a narrow slot canyon with two separate trails to explore: Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon.

Excursions start from Las Vegas and include both transportation and the guided visit of the Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide. You can visit both the Lower and Upper parts of the site so that you can see one of the most colorful and photographed canyons in the country from every angle.

• Antelope Canyon day trips from Las Vegas

4 – Grand Canyon

Sure, the world-famous Grand Canyon deserves more than a one-day trip because it is a 277 miles long canyon sharpened by the Colorado River.

Coming from Vegas, you may easily access the West Rim and its vertiginous attraction, the Skywalk, or head to the South Rim, either traveling by bus or by helicopter. Choose among the best Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas!

Enjoy this world natural wonder from a unique point of view.

• Grand Canyon day trips from Las Vegas

See also: How to get from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon , Best things to do at the Grand Canyon

5 – Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Don’t feel like driving for hours to have a delightful day trip? How about Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area situated at Vegas’ doorstep?

The site offers many opportunities for hiking, horse riding, and rock climbing.

Head west for about twenty miles to find yourself into Red Rock Canyon’s magnificent scenery.

• Red Rock Canyon day trips from Las Vegas

Make sure to check our top 10 best Red Rock Canyon tours from Las Vegas .

6 – Hoover Dam

How much do you want to see one of the most spectacular works of architecture made by man, let alone one that dominates the largest reservoir in the United States?

Hoover Dam is to human monuments what the Grand Canyon is to natural wonders, purely majestic!

From there, you will also get a full view of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.

• Hoover Dam day trips from Las Vegas

7 – Lake Mead Recreation Area

Whether you are planning a relaxing experience or an active escapade, Lake Mead Recreation Area welcomes some of the best day trips in the area.

Will you calmly enjoy the scenery of the lake before having dinner on the shore, or end a jet-skiing afternoon by jumping aboard a cruise boat?

• Lake Mead day trips from Las Vegas

8 – Zion National Park

Located in Utah, Zion National Park features among the most exciting places when it comes to hiking.

While some trails may require more than a day, many of them are still excellent day trips.

Also, you may choose more or less challenging paths across this natural paradise – it’s up to you!

• Day trips to Zion from Las Vegas

See also: Fun things to do in Zion National Park

9 – Mount Charleston

The Las Vegas area is a neverending source of wonderment.

You may contemplate Mount Charleston’s snowy summit without driving more than an hour North from the city.

Perfect for either summer and winter day trips, Spring Mountains are the closest peaks you can go ski at in the hot state of Nevada!

10 – Lake Spring Mountain

For those who need a refreshing break from the big city, Lake Spring Moutain is an oasis situated an hour West from Las Vegas.

The resort offers many water activities, such as paddleboarding and rafting.

Nearby Parhump’s wineries host concerts and cultural performances all year.

11 – Eldorado Canyon

Tour Eldorado Canyon, a place that made the state of Nevada’s history by being a center of its mining industry.

The most active and fearless may then visit the impressive Techatticup Mine and Nelson ghost town.

Go back in time thanks to unaltered life scenes, including buildings, vehicles and all sorts of yesterday’s props.

• ElDorado Canyon tours from Las Vegas

12 – Dixie National Forest

Going the miles separating Utah from the capital of Nevada is a trip, but the charm of Dixie National Forest should make you consider it.

The picturesque landscapes and the abundant wildlife encountered while walking these forest trails are a treat for nature enthusiasts.

13 – Nellis Dunes

Looking for a more adrenaline-packed activity than peaceful hikes and sightseeing?

One of the most popular trips around starts in North Vegas. Explore the Nellis Dunes and the Las Vegas Recreation Area riding an ATV .

Over rolling hills and sandy dunes, we guarantee that you will enjoy your way across the desert!

14 – Seven Magic Mountains

The work of Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, Seven Magic Mountains is a piece of Land Art, an original form of Contemporanea art.

These lightly colored boulders are reminiscent of the region’s landscape and especially Bryce Canyon’s “hoodoo” formations.

It can be visited as you drive by South Las Vegas Boulevard, near Goodspring, Nevada.

• Seven Magic Mountains tours from Las Vegas

15 – Area 51

Hiking trails and resting in lands with no mystery excite you no more?

Hit the UFO road and fulfill your curiosity! The weirdest things are to explorable on the extraterrestrial highway to Area 51 and its Alien Research Center.

Drive, stop for the signs of extraterrestrial life and come back with the strangest feeling.

• Area 51 day trips from Las Vegas

16 – St George

A center for tourism in Southern Utah, St George offers an original mix of outdoor fun and small-city attractions.

Enjoy downtown shops, museums, and restaurants or join one of the many adventures available out in the tremendous rocky scenery.

The city may also be a convenient stop before heading to Zion National Park.

17 – Death Valley National Park

Here is where disbelief starts. Known to be one of the hottest and driest deserts, Death Valley National Park is the definition of an extreme environment.

You should plan a day trip to meet unforgettable sights in one of the most intriguing places in the world.

Watch for the insanely high temperatures!

• Death Valley day trips from Las Vegas

18 – Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Less than two hours are required to reach the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, an inspiring place if you are thirsty for adventures.

It is an exciting part of an ensemble of visits awaiting you past the Utah Stateline (St George, Zion and Bryce National Parks), and it is situated next to the no less gorgeous Snow Canyon State Park.

19 – Black Canyon

If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery and be active on the waters of Colorado River, a kayaking or rafting trip to Black Canyon is the thing to do.

Relax on the river shores and paddle as far as the colorful Emerald Cave!

Your Black Canyon trip starts at Willow Beach, a pleasant water sports area situated 50 kilometres from Vegas.

• Kayaking trips in Black Canyon

20 – Bryce Canyon National Park

Prepare for one of the most impressive dives into nature you can get coming from the urban craze of Las Vegas.

Bryce Canyon National Park is an original site where red rocks and stone arches give travellers fascinating views.

For an entire day of hiking, check out nearby Zion National Park and Dixie Forest.

• Bryce Canyon day trips from Las Vegas

Need more information? Make sure to check out our complete guide about the best Bryce Canoyon tours from Las Vegas .

21 – Lake Havasu

In Arizona, Lake Havasu is an excellent destination whether you seek to relax on a boat or have a mix of watersports at Lake Havasu City’s resort.

More, the Havasu Wildlife Refuge preserves an incredible variety of birds and other animals along the Colorado River shoreline.

The refuge and the city are a two-hour drive south from Las Vegas.

22 – Snow Canyon State Park

If you already plan on visiting the precedently mentioned Red Cliffs National Conservation Area or any curiosity on the path of your day trip to Utah, do not miss the opportunity to follow your visit with a walk into Snow Canyon State Park.

Amazing scenes of red and yellow coloured sandstones, slot canyons and petrified dunes await you there.

23 – Santa Clara River Reserve

A natural and historical visit you can reach by driving to St George’s area in Southern Utah, the Santa Clara River Reserve offers fine hikes.

Running across the Northern part of the reserve, the Anasazi Valley Trailhead has well-preserved petroglyphs carved into the cliffs, which are the works of the Anasazi Native tribe.

24 – Cathedral Gorge State Park

It takes around two hours to reach Cathedral Gorge State Park, but the hikes and the views are worth the travel time.

The highly-eroded clay and contrasting deposits caused by volcanic activity contribute to this magical landscape.

As for the place’s poetic name, find out its meaning by exploring the multitude of formations on the path of your trail.

25 – Hidden Valley

Go on a high-paced ride through the rugged mountains of Hidden Valley and the Mojave Desert starting from the nearby town of Primm.

All-terrain vehicles from dirt bikes and quads are available, and they are ideally suited for travelers who want to both enjoy speed and unforgettable sights.

• Hidden Valley day trips from Las Vegas

26 – Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

If you are into picturesque sites and ancient art, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is home to hundreds of stone etchings containing more than two thousand petroglyphs.

Walk on the tracks and discover these pieces. This Nevada site is just a thirty minutes ride from the city.

27 – Lake Las Vegas Water Sports

From boating to paddle boarding and kayaking, Lake Las Vegas Water Sports is the closest resort from the city to offer such a complete panel of attractions.

If boating is not your style, enjoy a fun time at the water park. A thirty minutes drive from the city, Lake Las Vegas is an accessible one-day amusement destination.

28 – Monument Valley

The furthest site we provide you with is simply a gorgeous scenery, and surely the most typical Western picture one may find.

When it comes to dreaming landscapes on the American territory, Monument Valley is part of the royalty.

As time flies by, you might decide to stay until the sun sets on the rocks.

• Monument Valley day trips from Las Vegas

29 – Horseshoe Bend

A truly fascinating sight, Horseshoe Bend is situated in the Navajo Reservation area.

Like nearby Antelope Canyon, these high cliffs are a delight for photography enthusiasts. Kayaking and rafting day trips along the Colorado River are the best way to stop by this marvelous site and contemplate it from the riverbank, but there are also excursions by minivan heading to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

• Day trips to Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

30 – Los Angeles

Visit the famous districts of Hollywood and Santa Monica during your day trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. You will travel through the Death Valley and the Joshua Tree National Park to reach the city of the movies. Enjoy a full day in Los Angeles. By booking a tour with a guide, you will be guided through the main districts of the city, making it possible to visit LA in just one day.

• Day trips to Los Angeles

We hope you enjoyed our selection of day trips from Las Vegas. For more inspiration about Sin City, take a look at the best things to do in Las Vegas .

Don’t hesitate to comment below if you have any questions. Have fun 😉

• Check all day trips from Las Vegas

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - Leave a Comment

If you’ve visiting Las Vegas and wondering what there is to do outside the city, then our guide to the best day trips from Las Vegas has you covered.

Whilst there’s no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas , there are also a number of excellent attractions that you can easily visit in a day from the city. These include a number of lovely natural attractions which make for the perfect balance to the hectic pace of Las Vegas.

If you are visiting Las Vegas for a few days, then we definitely recommend allocating at least one of those days to a day trip outside the city. Let’s take a look at the options so you can decide for yourself which day trips you’d prefer!

Day Trips from Las Vegas

There are quite a few day trips you can do from Las Vegas. Some of these are shorter trips that you can do with half a day, others will take a whole day. There are also different options for how to do these day trips.

For each day trip, we’ve suggested the different options you have for doing them, from driving yourself to taking a tour. We’ve also listed public transport options where available, although as many of the day trips are to quite remote locations, public transport is often limited or non existent.

Also, if you plan on sightseeing in Las Vegas, check out the Go Las Vegas card . As well as including entry to many attractions in the city, the card also includes some day trips out of Las Vegas. So if you plan on picking one of those up, you might find it includes one of the tours you wanted to do anyway! Worth checking out.

Valley of Fire State Park

If you’d like to do some hiking and experience beautiful natural landscapes, then we highly recommend a visit to the Valley of Fire state park . This state park is so named because the red rocks that are found throughout the park give the impression that the valley is on fire, particularly at sunset.

We also recommend this park because it is less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas and makes for an easy day trip or day tour that doesn’t include a lot of time driving. The main things to do here is to following the driving route to check out the various rock formations and scenic viewpoints and to hike on the many trails located within the park.

There are multiple observation points where you can get a stunning scenic view. If you visit in the cooler months outside of the heat of summer, there are also lots of hikes you can do, ranging from short easy walks through to longer half day and full day hikes.

If you visit the park in the summer, this can be a very hot part of the world and it may indeed feel like the world is on fire! We’d generally recommend limiting the length of any hiking expeditions in the peak heat of the summer months and bring lots of water and sun protection.

There are several picnic areas along the park’s driving route where you can stop for some shade, have a picnic, and use the restroom.

There’s an excellent visitor centre on site where you can learn all about the park, and this is also a good place to ask rangers for advice on hiking conditions and recommended hikes.

Getting to the Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas

Found 50 miles northwest of Las Vegas, there are a few ways to get to the Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas. Here are some options.

Driving to the Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas

The 46,000 acre park is around a 50 minute drive northwest of Las Vegas.

So it is going to be around a 50 minute drive each way plus you’ll want to allow at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the park. If you plan on doing some of the trails, which range from a few hundred yards to 7 miles, then obviously you’ll need to spend longer.

Park entry is currently $10 for vehicles with Nevada plates, and $15 for other vehicles, and the park is open from sunset to sunrise. Parking is included with entry. You can see more on the official site here .

If you have your own car or choose to rent one , it can make for a good destination to visit with the Hoover Dam for a full day out. You can do this as a nice loop drive, taking in view of Lake Mead as well, with a total drive time of about 4 hours.

Public Transport to the Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas

Unfortunately the remote location of the Valley of Fire State Park means there aren’t currently any public transport options. The best option if you don’t have your own vehicle would be to either rent a vehicle or join a tour.

Ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not recommended as you need a way to get around the park, and you could end up stuck out here with no way to get back.

Tours of the Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas

If you don’t have your own vehicle and would prefer not to rent one, or would just like to let someone else handle the logistics of your trip to the Valley of Fire, then a guided tour is your best option.

Tours have a number of benefits, and they normally include a guide who can share information about what you are seeing to enhance your experience. They are also a good option if you want to do a hike, as an experienced guide can be invaluable to help you have a safe experience.

Most tours include a guide, water, and entrance fees to the park. However do always check the tour description to know what it includes and what to expect.

There are a number of Valley of Fire tours running from Las Vegas. Here are some to consider.

• This guided hiking tour of the Valley of Fire offers a guided hiking experience. You can choose a hike to suit your experience level and fitness, with the tour lasting for 4-6 hours depending on the hike.
• This small group 6 hour tour includes the main highlights of the park as well as a visit to the park visitor centre
• This full day 9 hour trip includes both the Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon, letting you experience two natural wonders in one day. This is a similar 8 hour tour.
• One popular thing to do in Las Vegas is get married. Well, if you want a different backdrop, how about booking a Valley of Fire wedding tour with a private limousine!
• This full day tour includes Hoover Dam, the Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon, letting you experience some of the best attractions outside Las Vegas in one day.
• This full day tour has you exploring the Valley of Fire in a two person buggy, perfect for the thrill seekers amongst you.
• If you’d prefer a private tour, this 5 hour private tour is a great option.
• Finally, if you’re interested in getting great photos and learning about the local wildlife, check out this full day wildlife viewing photo tour .

Whilst we think those are some of the best tours on offer, there are more to choose from. See  this list on GetYourGuide and this list on Viator  for even more options.

Found on the Arizona / Nevada border around a 40 minute drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam makes for a popular half day trip from Las Vegas. This is probably the most popular day trip from Las Vegas and makes for a great half-day trip out of the city.

The dam sits at the southern end of Lake Mead, which is the largest reservoir in the USA by capacity, and which was formed as a result of the dam being built across the Colorado River.

The dam was built in five years and opened in 1936, two years ahead of schedule, thanks to the mammoth efforts of thousands of workers who came seeking work during the Great Depression. It was a massive and sometimes dangerous project, and over 100 workers died in its construction.

The dam has a number of purposes. It was built to regulate and control the Colorado River, and therefore reduce the risk of flooding to downstream communities. The large reservoir formed by the dam provides drinking water as well as irrigation water, and is also a popular recreation site.

It was also built to generate power, and when opened became the largest hydroelectric power station in the world.

Today, over a million people a year visit the Hoover Dam. It is possible to just visit and admire the view, but there are also a number of tours which take you inside the dam to tour the powerplant and walk some its tunnels where you will also learn all about the construction and history of this mammoth engineering achievement. If you visit, we can highly recommend taking one of these tours.

The main tours available are as follows.

• A self-guided visitor centre tour. This costs $10 and lets you access the visitor centre where you can learn about the dam, as well as visit the observation deck
• A guided powerplant tour. This costs $15, and as well as including the self-guided visitor centre tour, it lets you see the powerplant and some of the construction tunnels
• A guided dam tour. This costs $30 and includes the previous two items, as well as seeing more of the inner workings of the dam.

We generally suggest that the guided powerplant tour is definitely worth it as it’s only a little bit more expensive than the self-guided tour but includes a lot more. Those with more of an interest, and more time on their hands, will want to take the full guided dam tour.

It’s also worth being aware that tours can be restricted or stopped at very short notice due to maintenance requirements or elevator issues. So it is always worth calling ahead before visiting to be sure that what you want to see is open before you visit. You can see contact details and lots more information on the official website here .

Getting to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

There are a number of options for getting to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas, which we’ll go through now.

Driving to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

First, if you have your own vehicle or if you’ve rented one , it’s easy to drive to the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas. It’s around a 40 minute / 37 mile drive from the city.

Parking is available on site. There’s a large parking structure on the Nevada side which can accommodate standard sized cars. This is the closest structure to the dam visitor center, and there’s a $10 fee for parking here.

For larger vehicles like RVs, oversized vehicles and vehicles with trailers, parking is available on the Arizona side of the dam. The first parking lot, closest to the dam, has a $10 daily fee.

There are four additional parking lots further up the canyon which are free, but the walk is a bit longer (at least half  a mile from the nearest one to the visitor center) and they don’t have as many spaces available. However, as you will likely want to walk across the dam anyway, if you can find a spot in the free parking zone, this will save you $10.

Public Transport to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

There is currently no public transport that runs directly from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam that we aware of.

However, you can take a public bus from Las Vegas to Boulder City. The Henderson and Downtown Express (HDX) takes around an hour from the Las Vegas strip to downtown Boulder City.

From Boulder City, you can then take a taxi or ride share on to the Hoover Dam, which is around a 16 minute drive.

You can also take a rideshare, Uber or Lyft, all the way from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam, a journey that takes around 40 minutes by car. The only downside with this approach is that whilst it will be easy to find a vehicle to get you from Las Vegas out to the Hoover Dam, there will be fewer vehicles operating around the Hoover Dam. So do keep this in mind.

Tours of Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

If you don’t have your own vehicle, then we think the best option is to take a dedicated tour of Hoover Dam from Las Vegas.

There are a lot of tours from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam, so it’s important to pick the right one for you. Differences include the length of time at the dam, whether entry or a tour on site is included, and whether other attractions are also included. Group size also varies depending on the tour operator.

We’ve put together our picks of tours available, to give you some good options to choose from. Always be sure to check exactly what is included before booking a tour so you know what you are getting.

• If you’re short on time, this 3 hour express tour will get you good views of the damn as well as some time at Lake Mead, however there’s no time on this tour for going inside the dam
• This 5 hour tour includes a tour of the exterior of the dam as well as the interior, as well as a photo stop to see some bighorn sheep
• This 6.5 hour tour includes a guided walk across the top of Hoover Dam and a tour of the generator area inside the dam. It also includes lunch, time in Boulder City and a visit to the Boulder Dam museum amongst other stops.
• This full day 3 in 1 tour includes the Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon and some highlights of Route 66! This does only include a photo stop at the Hoover Dam rather than a full tour, but it’s a good option for taking in a few attractions in one package.
• If you’re looking for something a bit different, this helicopter tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon flies right over the Hoover Dam, for a unique perspective!
• If you pick up a Go Las Vegas card , one of the included experiences is a Hoover Dam tour. So if you plan on doing a few different activities in the city which this pass covers, this can be a great way to save money and still visit the Hoover Dam!

Of course, there are lots more options – check out this list on GetYourGuide and this list on Viator for more ideas!

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Just 15 miles to the west of Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area is a popular destination for a full or half day trip from Las Vegas.

The main highlight of this nearly 200,000 acre park are the huge red sandstone rock formations which form a series of peaks and rock walls. These walls are up to 3,000 feet high, and the area is popular for both hikers and rock climbers, as well as visitors who just want to appreciate the natural beauty.

If you are interested in hiking, there are a number of trails to choose from across a range of difficulty levels. You can see a full list of trails and download a trail map here .

Main access to the area is via a one way 13 mile scenic loop road which is accessible off Las Vegas highway 159. The loop road has a a number of parking areas and trailheads for hiking, and there are some spur roads leading off it where you can access additional trailheads as well as a series of petroglyphs.

The road has a slow maximum speed limit and is also suitable for cycling, Some tour operators offer electric bicycle hire and transport from Las Vegas if you’re interested in experiencing the area on two wheels.

A good starting point for any visit to Red Rock Canyon is the Red Rock Canyon visitor centre, found just past the fee station. Fees for entry are currently $15 for a vehicle. You can see more at the official website here .

Getting to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Las Vegas

It’s around a 17 mile / 30 minute drive from the Las Vegas strip to the Red Rock Canyon visitor centre. Here are your options for visiting.

Driving to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Las Vegas

If you have your own car or choose to rent one , then getting to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area from Las Vegas is easy. It’s a 30 minute drive to the park entrance, and from there you can follow the 13 mile scenic loop road.

There are numerous parking areas as you drive the scenic loop road, many of which are at the start of the various hiking trailheads.

Public Transport to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Las Vegas

There is no direct public transport to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Las Vegas.

It is possible to take a rideshare, Uber or Lyft, out to Red Rock Canyon, however, be advised that there is very limited cell reception at the reserve, so there is a very real possibility of being stranded out there. You may also have a hard time finding a driver to take you back to Las Vegas. In addition, the first trail head is a mile from the entrance.

It would probably work out more cost effective to either book a tour or rent your own vehicle for the day than to do a rideshare option.

Tours of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Las Vegas

As with other popular day trip destinations from Las Vegas, there are a number of tours you can take from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon. Some of these tours focus on Red Rock Canyon itself, whilst others include Red Rock Canyon with some of the other highlights in the area. Here’s a good selection to give you some options.

• This 4 tour in a jeep covers many of the highlights of Red Rock Canyon, and the vehicle allows you to get more off the beaten path as well
• Looking for something more thrilling? Check out this helicopter tour of Red Rock Canyon , which includes a landing above the valley and champagne.
• If you’d like to pedal your way round the scenic loop (with some assistance), check out this tour which includes round trip transport and electric cycle hire. There are also tours offering guided mountain biking on tougher trails.
• If you’d prefer to focus on some hiking, this guided hiking tour offers a choice of trails and a guided hike of between 2 and 2.5 hours in the canyon
• This really fun tour has you exploring Red Rock Canyon by Scooter Car, in a fully guided experience with the opportunity to do some short hikes.
• This 6-7 hour tour includes stops at a number of the Red Rock Canyon viewpoints, as well as a stop at Hoover Dam, Seven Magic Mountains and the Boulder City Art Guild area.
• This full day 10 hour trip visits the Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon, letting you experience a range of attractions in one full day of adventure

Whilst we think those are some of the best tours on offer, there are more to choose from. See this list on Viator , and this list on GetYourGuide for even more options.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular and well known natural attractions in the world, and it makes for a popular destination as a day trip from Las Vegas.

The Grand Canyon was formed by the Colorado River over millions of years. This massive 277 mile long canyon is over a mile deep in places, and it’s popular for everything from casual sightseeing through to hiking and rafting.

One of the most popular activities from Las Vegas is to take a helicopter flight out to the Grand Canyon, like this . This gives you a stunning aerial view of the Canyon, and also saves you a lot of driving time!

Of course, there are other options for getting to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, which we’ll go over now.

Getting to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, so when planning a trip here from Las Vegas it’s important to decide which part of the canyon to visit.

Most visitors will want to visit the Grand Canyon National Park which is where the deepest and most impressive stretches of the canyon are to be found. It’s also here, on the south rim, that you’ll find the Grand Canyon Village, home to the park’s restaurants, shops, and the expansive visitor centre.

From the Grand Canyon village there are a number of trails and viewpoints you can access, as well as a shuttle bus that will take you along the rim for additional views. As this is a National Park there’s an entry fee, and you can read more about opening times and prices here .

A closer option to Las Vegas is Grand Canyon West . This area of the park belongs to the Hualapai people, and is outside the National Park Area. They have food service on site, as well as the Grand Canyon Skywalk , a glass bridge that allows you to walk right out above the canyon. Note that there’s a fee to enter this area, and you can book tickets in advance here .

Both of these options can be visited individually from Las Vegas, and I’ll include information on getting to both so you can decide which works for you.

Driving to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

From Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West, where you’ll find the Grand Canyon Skywalk , it’s around 130 miles, or 2.5 hours of driving. We think this is an achievable day trip for those wanting to visit part of the Grand Canyon.

However, if you are wanting to visit the Grand Canyon National Park and village, it is a much longer drive. By road, you’re looking at a 4.5 hour drive of almost 300 miles. So that would be nine hours driving in total.

Personally, we think this is stretching what we’d be happy to drive in a day, so if we were planning to visit from Las Vegas by car, we’d probably opt to spend the night. This would also let us enjoy a beautiful sunset in the Grand Canyon .

Alternatively, we’d consider taking a day tour rather than driving ourselves, so we can relax on the long trip there and back without the 9 hours of driving. Overnight tours are also available, like this one .

The other option would be to take a helicopter tour like this . Helicopter tours are a fantastic way to see different parts of the Grand Canyon without spending a lot time in the car. There are a number of operators offering helicopter tours, some of which include landing in the canyon and other features like champagne or snacks.

Public Transport to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

Given the distances involved and the remote locations, you will likely not be surprised to hear that there’s no public transport available to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.

There is a train service that operates to the Grand Canyon Village from Williams, Arizona, but this would still require you to figure out how to get to Williams. There are Greyhound services, but these take much longer than is possible in a day.

Tours of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

In our opinion, the best way to get to the Grand Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas is to take a day tour. Whilst these do involve a lot of driving, you can rest on the tour vehicle and let someone else handle the driving.

You can also opt to take a helicopter tour, which will get you to and from the Grand Canyon a lot quicker, and thus save you a huge amount of travel time. Plus you’ll also get an amazing view of the canyon from the air, which is one of the best ways to experience its vast scale.

If you want to visit the Grand Canyon by vehicle but don’t want to spend too long in a vehicle, consider heading to the Grand Canyon West area rather than the Grand Canyon village, as this will significantly reduce your travel time.

Here are a number of tour options to consider for your trip.

• This full day 14 hour tour will take you all the way to the Grand Canyon village area, and you’ll get 3.5 hours free time on site to explore. It also includes a photo stop at the Hoover Dam and a lunch stop on Route 66.
• This is another full day 15 hour tour to the Grand Canyon village, which also includes a stop at the Grand Canyon caverns on the way, and around 3 hours in the park. Lunch and breakfast snacks are also included.
• This half day tour has you flying to the Grand Canyon in a helicopter, landing below the rim and enjoying champagne and snacks with gorgeous views
• This full day tour to Grand Canyon West includes a photo opportunity at the Hoover Dam, as well as time to explore Grand Canyon West. Food is included, and the tour can be upgraded to include the Skywalk.
• This full day 15 hour white water rafting trip from Las Vegas offers a unique viewpoint on the Grand Canyon as you ride a raft down the Colorado river.
• This helicopter tour offers you the chance to see sunset over the Grand Canyon, followed by the lights of the Las Vegas strip at night. A snack, champagne, and landing in the Grand Canyon is included.
• This 17 hour full day tour has you visiting three natural wonders, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon South Rim. A stop at Seligman, a Route 66 highlight, is also included, as is lunch.
• This full day private tour includes the trip out to the Grand Canyon south rim where you will be able to watch the sunset, as well as some of the highlights of Arizona’s Route 66 on the journey there and back.
• If you’d rather not drive so much in one day, you can also take a 2 day tour like this to the Grand Canyon. This tour includes accommodation and will give you lots more time to experience this natural wonder.

Zion National Park

Found just across the border in neighbouring Utah, Zion National Park is famous for its varied terrain and wildlife. The park has a unique geography due to its location on the edge of the Colorado Plateau, which has resulted in a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as some stunning landscapes.

Naturally the park is a popular destination for hikers and lovers of nature, and it has everything from mountains to slot canyons to natural arches to tempt the visitor with.

Zion also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation in the area from at least 8,000 years ago. Zion was Utah’s first national park.

There’s a lot to see and do in the park. There’s an excellent visitor centre which is worth the visit, as well as a variety of trails which range from easy through to challenging. There’s also a shuttle bus to get you around the park.

As this is a National Park, there’s an entry fee, and you can see more about costs and opening times on the official website here .

Getting to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

Zion National Park is 160 miles north east of Las Vegas, so around a 2.5 hour drive. You have a few options for getting here from Las Vegas.

Driving to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

You can drive to Zion National Park from Las Vegas. It’s around a 2.5 hour drive. However, you should be aware that for much of the year the scenic road around the park is off limits to private vehicles, and you have to take a shuttle.

Most visitors who drive pay to park their vehicle in Springdale, from where there is a free shuttle to the visitor centre, following which you can take the Zion Canyon visitor shuttle to the main highlights and lookouts.

Public Transport to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

It is actually possible to visit Zion National Park by public transport from Las Vegas. A number of buses operated by Flixbus and Greyhound will get you to St. George in around 3 hours, and from here you can take a shuttle to Zion which takes around an hour.

We’d honestly prefer to take a tour or drive rather than do that, but it is at least an option!

Tours of Zion National Park from Las Vegas

There are a number of tours operating from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. Note that some of these tours also include other parks, such as Bryce Canyon. Whilst Bryce is very pretty, it’s an extra 2 hour drive each way from Zion, so if you visit both parks in one day you will have much less time to experience Zion.

Of course, it’s up to you which you would prefer, but we’ve primarily focused on tours that just go to Zion. If you want to include Bryce, consider a 2 day overnight tour like this instead.

• This full day tour focuses on Zion National Park, and gives you six hours to explore the park yourself.
• This small grouped guided walking tour of Zion National Park will take you to the highlights of the park in a fully guided experience, and includes park entry
• The Go Las Vegas card includes a full day trip to Zion National Park, and includes your entry fee, lunch, snacks and water
• This 14 hour small group tour visits both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, and include entry fees, lunch, snacks and bottled water, with around 1.5 hours in each park.
• This 2 day small group tour includes both Zion and Bryce Parks, and gives you more time to experience and enjoy both parks.
• This full day private tour of Zion National Park includes four hours in the park with a guide, as well as your park entry fees

There are of course many more tour options available. See this list on Viator , and this list on GetYourGuide for even more options.

Arguably the world’s most famous road, Route 66 runs for over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California.

Driving the whole route obviously takes more than a day, and if you are planning on doing it all, we recommend reading our guides to spending 1 week on Route 66 , 2 weeks on Route 66 , and planning a Route 66 road trip for inspiration.

The good news is that part of the original Route 66 highway passes relatively near to Las Vegas. Specifically, the stretch from Seligman, Arizona, down to Needles, California is within driving distance of Las Vegas, meaning you can definitely visit Route 66 as a day trip from Las Vegas.

Some of the highlights along this stretch of the Route include Oatman, Hackberry, Peach Springs, and Seligman. You can see more of the highlights on this stretch of the route in our guide here . There are lots of quirky roadside attractions and some stunning scenery, making this one of our favourite parts of the Route to drive.

Getting to Route 66 from Las Vegas

Let’s look at the options you have for visiting Route 66 as a day trip from Las Vegas.

Driving to Route 66 from Las Vegas

The closest stretch of Route 66 to Las Vegas is the section which passes through Kingman, Arizona. This is around 110 miles from Las Vegas, or just under two hours drive away.

From Kingman, you can follow the stretch of Route 66 to Seligman, which is an additional 87 miles, or a 90 minute drive. So you could easily do a nice long day trip from Las Vegas by car and see some of the highlights of this section of Route 66.

Public Transport to Route 66 from Las Vegas

You can take a bus from Las Vegas to Kingman. The service is operated by Flixbus , and the journey takes around 2 hours, depending on the time of day.

Of course, this only gets you to Kingman. Whilst this is home to a number of Route 66 attractions, including the Arizona Route 66 museum , it’s not quite the same as driving the route itself. Still, it is possible at least to visit Route 66 by public transport from Las Vegas.

Tours of Route 66 from Las Vegas

The majority of tours from Las Vegas which feature Route 66 do so primarily as an addon to another tour. It’s commonly found for example on tours to the Grand Canyon, like this one , because if you are travelling to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, the route naturally crosses some Route 66 attractions like Kingman and Seligman.

If you want a tour which specifically focuses on Route 66, these are harder to come by. One option might be to book a private tour like this , and see if it can be tailored to focus more on Route 66 attractions. Alternatively, if you can get yourself to Kingman, there are some more focused Route 66 tours like this and this .

Of course, you might be happy to just experience parts of Route 66 as part of a bigger day trip, and that’s fine too! Here are some suggested tours which we suggest you check out.

• This full day tour to the Grand Canyon includes a stop in Seligman which has lots of interesting Route 66 attractions
• This full day private tour includes a trip out to the Grand Canyon south rim where you will be able to watch the sunset, as well as some of the highlights of Arizona’s Route 66 on the journey there and back.

As you can see, there are not a great many day tours that include Route 66. If you want to see more of Route 66, then we would definitely suggest either using your own vehicle, or renting one for this particular adventure.

Death Valley National Park

Found in Eastern California, the rather terrifyingly named Death Valley is famous for a number of reasons.

First, it’s quite inhospitable. It got its name during the California Gold Rush, following the deaths of a number of prospectors who had to cross the valley to reach the gold fields. A combination of intense heat, difficult terrain and limited water supplies made the valley challenging to traverse, leading to the loss of life.

The Valley is regarded as being one of the hottest places on earth, with summer time temperatures regularly exceeding 100 F (39 C), and a recorded high of 134 F (57 C).

It’s also home to the lowest point in the USA. Badwater Basin in Death Valley is 282 feet (86 metres) below sea level.

Combine these extremes with the rugged landscapes, and you can see why a visit to Death Valley National Park is on the to-do list of many visitors to the area.

Our tip would be to visit outside of the hottest months if possible (June through August are usually very hot). In these months the temperatures can be deadly, and parts of the park and hiking routes are often closed. Visiting in the relatively cooler months will be a much more pleasant experience.

There’s lots to see and do in the park, from hikes to photo stops. You can also learn about the history of the park with a visit to the excellent Furnace Creek visitor centre. You can see more about the park opening house and admission fees at the official website here .

Let’s look at how to get to Death Valley as a day trip from Las Vegas.

Getting to Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas

There are a few options for visiting Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas. Here are the ones we recommend.

Driving to Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas

Death Valley is around 131 miles from Las Vegas, so around a 2 hour and 15 minute drive from the city. That makes it an achievable full day trip from Las Vegas.

If you have your own car, or rent one , driving is definitely a good option as the attractions in the park are spread out over an area, so you definitely want a car to get around.

Once inside the park, you’re probably looking at 3-6 hours of sightseeing depending on your interests and any hiking you want to do.

Public Transport to Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas

There is no public transport that will let you do a day trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley that we are aware of. In addition, even if there were, you would still need a way to get around inside the park.

So if you’re planning a visit to Death Valley from Las Vegas and don’t have your own vehicle, we’d suggest taking a tour as the best option.

Tours of Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas

A number of companies offers day trips from Las Vegas to Death Valley. Some of these tours focus on Death Valley itself, whilst others might include other stops. Here are some options to consider.

• This full day small group tour visits the highlights of Death Valley, and includes a snack lunch and fees. It can also be purchased as a private tour.
• This full day trip from Las Vegas includes the major highlights of Las Vegas, park fees and a packed lunch
• This full day photo oriented tour includes Death Valley National Park as well as time at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Hopefully that gives you plenty of options for taking a tour out to Death Valley from Las Vegas!

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

The city of Page in northern Arizona, near the border with Utah, is known for two spectacular natural attractions. These are Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon formed by the erosion of sandstone by rainwater. The canyon, which is divided into two main parts, is narrow and remarkably photogenic, and can only be visited on a guided tour.

Horseshoe Bend is a famous U-shaped bend on the Colorado River. The river sweeps around a large rock outcrop, with the name coming from the fact that from above it forms a similar shape to that of a horseshoe.

Whilst Horseshoe Bend is technically free to visit, there is a $10 fee for car parking. To get to the viewpoint, there’s a 1.5 mile round trip hike. Be aware that this offers no shade, so in the summer this can be a very hot 1.5 miles. Bring plenty of water and a hat! The viewpoint is around 1000ft above the river, making for a truly spectacular vista which is well worth the visit.

Getting to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

Let’s take a look at how to get to Antelope Canyon and Horseshow Bend from Las Vegas. It’s quite a distance, so expect to spend the whole day visiting these two locations.

Driving to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

It’s around 270 miles from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon, so you are looking at a round trip of around 9 hours if you choose to drive.

This is a similar amount of driving as visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, and as with that trip, it’s an adventure we probably wouldn’t choose to drive ourselves. For this length of a day out, we’d be much more likely to take a tour and let someone else handle the driving so we could relax.

Still, it’s certainly an option if you have your own car and don’t mind a long stretch of driving. If you do decide to drive yourself, be sure to book your Antelope Canyon tour well in advance as they book out and it would be a disaster to drive all this way and then not be be able to visit! You can book the Lower Antelope Canyon here , and the Upper Antelope Canyon here .

Public Transport to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

So you can actually take a bus from Las Vegas to Page (with a change in St. George, Utah). However, as the total trip takes 5 – 6 hours and buses are not exactly regular, this isn’t something you can realistically achieve as a day trip. Check Flixbus and Greyhound for routes and prices.

However, traveling by public transit may be possible if you overnight in Page, and then take a local taxi from Page to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

Tours of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

There are a number of companies offering tours from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. As these attractions are close to each other, all the companies usually include them both, as well as some other scenic locations.

Note that Antelope Canyon can only be visited as part of a guided tour, and these tours are run by local Navajo guides. Some tours include the entry fee to Antelope Canyon as part of the overall price, whereas for others it will be an additional fee to pay, so do check when comparing tours what is included.

• This good value large group tour includes Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend with admission, as well as a packed lunch and bottled water
• This packed 17 hour tour includes Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, the Grand Canyon South Rim and a stop at Seligman on Route 66. It’s a busy full day, and it includes your entry to all the attractions as well as lunch
• This small group tour from Las Vegas offers the choice of Lower Antelope Canyon or Antelope Canyon X, which is another part of the slot canyon system. The tour includes entry tickets and lunch, and also visits Horseshoe Bend.
• If you’d rather not drive so much in one day, you might consider this 2 day small group tour from Las Vegas . This includes Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend, the Grand canyon and Hoover Dam. All fees except Antelope Canyon are included.

That sums up our list of our favourite day trips from Las Vegas! Now let’s cover some tips on renting cars and where to stay in the city. For more planning information, see our guide to things to do in Las Vegas , which has lots of tips on visiting the city as well.

How to Rent a Car in Las Vegas

If you are visiting Las Vegas without a car, then you might be wondering if you should rent a car during your time here. Generally, for exploring the city and getting around, we’d suggest that a car is more hassle than it’s worth. Parking is expensive, traffic is bad, and there’s a decent enough combination of public transport and ride sharing services to make a car unnecessary for sightseeing in the city.

However, as you will have seen, most of the day trips from the city aren’t achievable unless you book a tour or have a car, due to limited public transport options.

Renting a car is definitely an option to consider. However, do keep a few things in mind when comparing renting a car to taking a tour. The main thing is the cost. Whilst car rental can be great value, don’t forget to add in any insurance and gas on top of the base price. In addition, most of the sights outside the city have some kind of fee, either for parking, or vehicle entry, or both.

We think that if you are just planning on doing one or two day trips from Las Vegas that a tour will probably be easier. Most tours pick you up from your hotel, include the majority of entry fees, and are fairly cost effective. You also don’t have to worry about the driving aspect.

Of course, the value of a car rental compared to a tour will depend on your group size and personal preference. If you’re travelling to Las Vegas as a family for example, the cost of a car rental might work out better value than booking a tour for all of you. Or, you might just prefer the flexibility that having a car offers.

Renting a car is easy to do, usually you just need to have a driving license and be aged 21 or over. You can see more in my guide guide to driving in the USA , which is worth reading if this will be your first time driving in the country. When it comes to actually renting a car, you have lots of options. There are rental agencies at the airport and in the city.

If you are looking to hire a vehicle, we recommend that you  take a look at Discover Cars to compare car hire deals  across a wide range of different providers, including the biggest names in the business, to get a great deal for your trip.

If you are considering an overnight or multi-day trip from Las Vegas, you might also consider an RV. There are campsites at or near most of the locations we’ve mentioned, and this would be a fun way to explore the area.

For RV rental we recommend starting with Motorhome Republic , who compare prices across a range of providers. See their  USA listings here .

We can also recommend you check out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental.

Day Tours from Las Vegas

If you’ve decided on taking a day tour from Las Vegas, we have a few tips to share to help you decide between the.

First, check what’s included in the tour. Most tours include a guide (and a vehicle!), but then there are lots of other features to check for. Things to check for include any admission fees, water, snacks and other meals. If a tour seems much cheaper than alternatives, it’s usually because something like an admission fee isn’t included.

Next, check what sort of pickup the tour offers. Many tours offer hotel pick-ups, but this isn’t always the case, so if this is important to you make sure you pick a tour that will pick you up from your hotel.

Tour size is also something to consider. Whilst larger tours are usually cheaper due to the economies of scale, they are usually less efficient with time as organising a larger group takes longer. So a smaller group can usually see and do more in the same time span as a larger group.

When it comes to booking a tour, you have a few options. We usually prefer to use an online site which lists a variety of tours so we can compare prices and features. They usually allow for mobile ticketing as well so you can book the tour and then just show the ticket on your mobile.

For booking trips from and in Las Vegas, we recommend the following website:

• GetYourGuide . They have over 200 tours and activities in and outside the city, and a good review system so you can check what other travellers have to say. We’ve used them for tours and attraction entry around the world and have always had a positive experience.
• Viator . With over 800 tours and activities listed in and around Las Vegas, this TripAdvisor owned company has plenty of choice!
• Vegas.com   – as well as offering hotels and show tickets, this Las Vegas focused site also offers a number of tours outside the city.

Also, before booking a tour don’t forget to check out the Go Las Vegas card . As well as giving you entry to many attractions in the city, the card also includes some day trips out of Las Vegas. So if you plan on picking one of those up, you might find it includes one of the tours you wanted to do anyway! Worth checking out as it can be a real money saver.

Finally, before heading out on any tour remember to bring along a reusable water bottle and sun protection with you on the tour, especially if visiting in summer. The heat and sun can be harsh and even deadly, especially for children and elderly.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

If you’re doing day trips from the city, you’re going to need somewhere to stay in between those adventures. Well, Las Vegas has no shortage of accommodation to choose from. We’ve picked some of our favourites below.

Here are a few hotels in Las Vegas to choose from that we think you’ll enjoy. The majority of these are on The Strip, which we think offers the best Las Vegas experience. We have however also included some other options.

• El Cortez Hotel & Casino  – found on historic Fremont Street in the downtown part of the city, this 3* hotel offers great value and well reviewed accommodation with free parking
• Sin City Hostel  – if you’re looking for budget hostel style accommodation this hostel in the Arts District is a well reviewed option. Good value shared accommodation with private bathrooms for each room are available, and there’s a free breakfast every day as well as free parking.
• Flamingo Las Vegas  – the oldest resort still in operation on the Strip, the Flamingo has been operating as a casino and hotel since 1946. As the name suggests, it includes a garden courtyard which is home to a number of actual flamingos. It’s obviously an older hotel, but it does offer great value and an excellent location. We’ve stayed here and enjoyed it.
• Paris, Las Vegas  – this iconic Strip hotel features several replica Paris attractions, including the Eiffel Tower. There are 11 restaurants and 5 bars on site, as well as a casino, spa, gym, and hotel theater.
• Caesars Palace – home of arguably the most famous buffet in Las Vegas, this 4* hotel has a range of celebrity owned restaurants, a casino, large shopping complex, spa, and nightclub.
• New York New York – featuring a number of New York City highlights, including a 150 foot replica of the Statue of Liberty, this hotel and casino even has it’s own roller coaster. There are also 13 on-site restaurants and even an authentic Irish pub.
• Mandalay Bay  – found near the southern end of the Strip, this hotel has its own 11 acre beach  area replete with lazy river and splash pools.  Naturally there are also many dining options as well as bars, a casino, nightlife and live entertainment venues.
• The Delano – if you’re looking for a more relaxing and quieter Las Vegas experience, this might be the hotel for you. With no casino and only one restaurant, the Delano offers an upscale, quiet experience with a private pool and beach area. If you’re looking for action, you can go next door to Mandalay Bay (the Delano’s sister hotel) to enjoy the large pool, numerous restaurants, theaters, and casino. We think this hotel offers the best of both worlds. Jess has stayed here and thinks it would make a great choice for for couples.
• The Venetian  – part of the largest resort in Las Vegas, this 5* hotel offers the full Las Vegas experience. From Gondola rides down the Grand Canal through to replicas of iconic Venetian landmarks, this is huge resort hotel really does have everything. You’ll find over 40 restaurants, 160 shop, bars, clubs, 10 outdoor pools, spa facilities, a rock climbing wall, and of course, a casino!
• The Bellagio  – found behind the famous fountains, this 5* luxury hotel offers fantastic rooms, a range of pools, bars and restaurants, botanical gardens, on-site shopping and of course, a casino. We stayed in a lovely room here with views of the Strip and the fountains, and had a wonderful time!

Of course, there are lots more options for places to stay in Las Vegas. You can see more options, including apartments, hostels and more on the  booking.com listings for Las Vegas here . You can also see vacation rental listings for Las Vegas on  Vrbo here .

Further Reading

That’s it for our guide to day trips from Las Vegas! To help you further plan your trip, we have a number of other resources we think you might find useful.

• Check out our detailed list of suggested things to do in Las Vegas , which has all the sights you’ll want to see in the city as well as tips on saving money, getting around and more!
• If you’re into hiking and stunning landscapes, you might consider planning a trip to the magical Havasu Falls from Las Vegas. This requires a bit of planning though, so check out my guide to the Havasu Falls hike , as well as what to pack for Havasu Falls for advice.
• Las Vegas is a great starting point for a road trip in the USA. We have a  two week USA road trip itinerary starting from Las Vegas  we think you might enjoy
• If you want some more USA road trip inspiration, see our itineraries for a  USA Deep South road trip ,  California Road Trip ,  Route 66 Road Trip  and  Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• To help you budget a trip in the USA, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA
• If you’ll be driving, see our tips for driving in the USA  if this is your first time
• We’ve visited a lot of other cities in the USA! See our guides to  things to do in Huntsville ,  things to do in Savannah ,  things to do in Charleston ,  things to do in Albuquerque ,  visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras ,  things to do in Cambria ,  things to do in Houston ,  things to do in Dallas , and  things to do in Santa Fe  to get started!
• If you are wanting to take better vacation photos on your next trip, consider joining our online Travel Photography Course .

And we’re done! As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and questions to help you plan your visit. Just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Nevada (NV) » 15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

The undisputed home of extravagance and entertainment, Las Vegas is the city that features on the bucket list of travellers of every variety.

It may be an oasis of entertainment in the heart of the Nevada desert but away from the bright lights and bustling casinos there is a wealth of natural wonders to explore.

The exhilaration of Las Vegas can be exhausting and a day trip into the great outdoors can provide a welcome balance to travellers to Sin City.

Here are 15 day trips from Las Vegas that offer the full spectrum of sights in Nevada.

1. Grand Canyon

Arguably the Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive natural vistas in the world.

A day trip to the Grand Canyon sees you cross state lines into Northern Arizona, ticking off another of the 50-states from your USA bucket list.

Spanning a staggering 277 miles the Grand Canyon has been etched into the earth by the Colorado River and is still a work in progress.

The land has been naturally eroded away by the course of the river over millions of years and will continue to forever.

You can start hikes from the visitor’s centre and here you can seek advice as to which trail suits you best.

2. Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire is one of Nevada’s most iconic natural wonders.

Picture perfect in every way the Valley of Fire is home to native Indian petroglyphs that it is believed to date back over 3,000 years.

These perfectly preserved rock carvings give incredible insights in to the lives of our ancestors.

At the Valley of Fire visitors centre you can learn more about these relics before heading out to see them for yourself.

A true geographical wonder the Valley of Fire is an awe-inspiring day trip from Las Vegas.

Be warned, temperatures can soar to 120F, ensure you stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

3. Death Valley National Park

Named Death Valley for good reason, Death Valley National Park is one of the driest and hottest places on earth.

Experiencing the harshness of the environment gives visitors an appreciation for the elements, especially water.

A day trip to this national park is not complete without visiting Furnace Creek, Badwater and Zabriskie Point.

During a day trip to Death Valley you can visit eerie and desolate Rhyolite, a ghost town left in the wake of the Gold Rush.

Intriguing and incredibly hot, Death Valley is a sight to behold.

Charge your camera for Death Valley is the perfect place for panoramic shots.

4. Hoover Dam

In a State filled with natural wonders it is only appropriate that man too would have left his mark on the land.

If you thought Las Vegas was an impressive man made feat in the middle of the Nevada desert then you will be suitably be in awe of the Hoover Dam.

Taking over five years to build and requiring constant maintenance the Hoover Dam created the largest reservoir in the United States of America.

Holding a staggering 28.9 million acre-feet of water the capacity of the Hoover Dam is almost incomprehensible.

Tours of the Dam complex and neighbouring power plant are offered throughout the day.

As one of the most mysterious places in the world Area 51 is the perfect day trip from Las Vegas for the ever curious traveller, conspiracy theorists and military enthusiasts.

A trip to Area 51 is a rare opportunity to visit the world’s most secretive military facility.

Of course, day visitors don’t get the same kind of access as the real life Men in Black nor do you get to read the active X Files but there is plenty to explore.

Drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway to Little A’le’inn.

Having been the backdrop for countless documentaries and drama series there’s plenty to get the mind wandering at Area 51.

6. Red Rock Canyon

There are a whole host of impressive canyons within a day trip from Las Vegas including the first national conservation area to be implemented in Nevada, Red Rock Canyon.

Being one of the most accessible day trips from Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon lies just 17-miles south of the city centre.

Whether you choose to explore Red Rock Canyon on electric bicycle, on horseback or on foot, a trip to this beautiful canyon is the one of the highlights of the Mojave Desert.

In the Red Rock National Conservation area you’ll also find the gorgeous red and cream Calico Hills.

7. Bryce Canyon

Venturing into Bryce Canyon installed a feeling of sheer wonderment in all who visit.

Featuring extraordinary natural geographical formations of red rock Bryce Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes in Nevada.

Let your imagination run wild and see if you can see castles, battlements and ruins of city walls in the red rocks.

Many people say that they can see faces in the rock too.

Bryce Canyon is a simply stunning landscape that provides a delightful contrast to the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Teaming Bryce Canyon with a trip to Zion National Park is a popular combination day trip from Las Vegas.

8. Zion National Park

A destination in its own right Zion National Park is one of the more versatile landscapes accessible from Las Vegas.

Deep gorges are carpeted with greenery unlike the stark, raw landscapes found in other canyons surrounding Las Vegas.

Home to a vast array of flora and fauna Zion National Park falls within the state lines of Utah.

Another opportunity to tick another US state, if you’re counting that is.

An inspiring muse for artists, photographers, writers and more, Zion National Park is remembered fondly by all who visit.

9. Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon

Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon is a field day for adrenaline junkies.

Best explored by ATV the Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon trail is a great day trip from Las Vegas for fun loving, active travellers.

The Techatticup Gold Mine was Nevada’s biggest working mine in its hay day and the Eldorado Canyon was home to more people than modern day Las Vegas.

Exploring the Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon by ATV is a fun and memorable way to learn about the rich history of Nevada’s gold mining industry.

10. Mount Tipton Wilderness Area

For travellers seeking to get off the beaten track in their day trip from Las Vegas the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is an easily accessible option.

Located in Mohave County this Wilderness Area spans over 30,000 acres and Mount Tipton towers over the stark landscape at 7,148ft.

Best explored on foot or on horseback the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is something of a hidden gem.

Perfect for rock climbing the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is a paradise for the intrepid traveller.

Home to herds of wild mustangs Mount Tipton is one of Arizona’s best kept secrets.

11. Los Angeles & Hollywood

For many people a visit to Los Angeles is entirely separate to a trip to Las Vegas but it need not.

Lying just 4 hours away, Los Angeles is an easy, direct day trip from Las Vegas.

In the space of a day in the City of Angels you can visit Beverly Hills, drive down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and get that all important photo with the Hollywood sign.

Having had your fill of life in the desert be sure to take a stroll along the beachside boardwalks of LA before returning to Las Vegas.

Book online: From Las Vegas: VIP Los Angeles/Hollywood Day Trip

12. Lake Mead

Offering a welcome contrast to the Nevada Desert, Lake Mead itself is best explored by traditional paddle wheel boat.

Best experienced in the evening time you can jump aboard the Desert Princess and be wined and dined as you glide across the calm waters of Lake Mead.

Lake Mead provides a relaxing and peaceful day trip from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area, however, should be explored during the day time and has a number of scenic walking trails that curve around the lake shores.

The perfect way to spend the day before boarding the Desert Princess before sunset.

Suggested tour : Lake Mead National Park ATV Tour

13. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Lying just half an hour from the centre of Las Vegas lies Nevada’s most significant Petroglyph site.

Featuring over 300 panels of etchings in the canyon’s red rock, the site has 2,000 different depictions.

Meticulously managed to preserve these ancient Petroglyphs visitors to Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area are implored to stick to the trails.

Away from the ancestral artistry the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area features dusty lake beds, giant rock towers and of course, picture perfect expanses of desert.

14. Dixie National Forest

Spanning across 8,000 km² the Dixie National Forest is a great day trip from Las Vegas for nature enthusiasts and travellers who want to tick off as many US states as possible.

Dixie National Forest lies in Utah and occupies the land between the Colorado River and the Great Basin.

Keep an eye out for the vast array of wildlife that supports the precious Dixie National Forest ecosystem.

Home to cougar, bobcat and the Utah prairie dog, should you be patient enough you may just spot these rare mammals.

Bird lovers should look out for blue grouse, wild turkey and golden eagles.

15. Mount Charleston

With a wonderful selection of canyons and deserts to explore in day trips from Las Vegas, Mount Charleston offers travellers contrasting landscape to enjoy.

Located just 45-minutes away from the Las Vegas strip, Mount Charleston is snow capped in the winter making it ideal for sledding and skiing.

Quite the contrast indeed from the sweltering heat of Las Vegas.

For travellers who are keen to experience the incredibly versatility of western USA from a base of Las Vegas Mount Charleston is the perfect day trip.

15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas:

• Grand Canyon
• Valley of Fire
• Death Valley National Park
• Red Rock Canyon
• Bryce Canyon
• Zion National Park
• Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon
• Mount Tipton Wilderness Area
• Los Angeles & Hollywood
• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area
• Dixie National Forest
• Mount Charleston

23 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Las Vegas day trips are among the best ways to spend time in Sin City. If you have more than a day in Vegas, tear yourself away from the bright lights, grab some road trip snacks, and hit the road. Downtown Las Vegas might be incredible, but all too many people get distracted by bright lights and partying and fail to see the surrounding attractions. If you want the Vegas visit of a lifetime, you must prioritize some day trips from Las Vegas.

Table of Contents

Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas

This guide will cover the best day trips from Las Vegas. If you feel ambitious, Vegas is perfectly positioned to visit sights like Bryce Canyon National Park, Seven Magic Mountains, and even the Grand Canyon. So check out these top day trips and prepare to be seriously inspired.

Planning Your Trip To Las Vegas Right Now?

Below are some of the top day trip tours in Las Vegas. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Las Vegas!

Top Day Trip Activities and Tours in Las Vegas:

• Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Photo Stop, Lunch, Optional Skywalk (Most Popular Day Trip from Las Vegas)
• Half-Day Emerald Cove Kayak Tour (Our Favorite Day Trip)
• Valley of Fire Hiking Tour from Las Vegas (Likely to Sell Out)
• Small-Group Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour from Las Vegas (Best Deal)

1. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a spectacular engineering feat that straddles the iconic Colorado River. The Hoover Dam stands at around 221 meters in height and is positioned parallel to a massive bridge. The Hoover Dam and the Dam Bridge attract as many as 7 million tourists a year, many participating in adrenaline experiences like sky diving or bungee jumps.

These activities are subject to availability and often run at ad hoc times. However, if you fancy a flutter, check if any adrenaline events are running while you are visiting. Even just touring the dam, it is easy to see how its dramatic architecture inspires people to push themselves.

A Hoover Dam day trip is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas if you are pushed for time. The Hoover Dam is a 40-minute drive away, easily squeezed into half a day. And while there are no public transport options, you can also easily book a guided tour or shuttle experience.

We’ve added the Hoover Dam to this list because of how impressive this manmade construction is and how convenient it is to reach. With minimal effort and maximal reward, the Hoover Dam is a fabulous day trip within easy distance from Las Vegas.

2. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is among the most popular yet ambitious Las Vegas day trips. The Grand Canyon is a staggering 4 hours and 20 minutes away from Las Vegas. And if it wasn’t  the  Grand Canyon, we wouldn’t recommend trying to squeeze it in. But because the Grand Canyon is such a bucket list attraction, it is worth the extra effort.

To reach it, you’ll need to either hire a car (preferably with multiple drivers insured so you can split the driving) or book a guided tour. The benefit of a guided tour is that they include round-trip transportation, meaning you don’t have to face nearly 9 hours at the wheel. Weigh up both options and see which most suits you and your trip.

Of course, when you actually get to the Grand Canyon, you’ll have  plenty to do  to reward your efforts. You can take a  helicopter tour , hike the Canyon Overlook Trail, and explore both the West Rim and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The part which makes the Grand Canyon famous is the Great Unconformity – a missing gap in geological history where a layer of rock has wholly disappeared. It is an ongoing mystery that attracts millions of visitors a year, also lured in by the stunning canyon views.

3. Dixie National Forest

Dixie National Forest is a beautiful day trip from Las Vegas. When it comes to day trips from Las Vegas, there are so many desert-style areas of natural beauty that a forest is a welcome change of scenery. The national forest sprawls over 2 million acres, full of hiking trails, canyons, and lakes.

It is the perfect place to go if you want to spend a whole day hiking or biking from Las Vegas – or even go rock climbing if you can rent the necessary equipment. Dixie National Forest is a breath of fresh air after being around the bright lights and blaring music.

Dixie National Forest is a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, so it is a long day trip. You should set off early in the morning to maximize your journey and aim to get multiple drivers on your insurance to split driving time. It is well combined with a scenic drive through Zion National Park, though, so if you fancy a road trip vibe, Dixie National Forest was practically made for you.

4. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Fancy a bit of historical immersion? Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is an old ranch now treated as a state park with regular historical re-enactments. It is an interesting hybrid between a natural destination and a cultural attraction – perfect if you are stuck between them.

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is within the Red Canyon National Conservation Area and is just 30 minutes driving distance from Las Vegas. It is an effortless attraction to squeeze into a packed Vegas itinerary (which, let’s be honest, is definitely the norm).

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is ideal if you want one of the more cultural day trips from Las Vegas. If you time things correctly, you can catch one of the live Broadway musicals at the Super Summer Theatre at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This outdoor theatre is a beautiful place to sit and be entertained, with a backdrop of mountains and endless green fields. You should also stop by the state park’s old Main Ranch House. The former ranch house is now an immersive museum offering videos and guided tours.

5. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular Las Vegas day trips. The 3.4 million acres of the national park is a gorgeous mixture of desert and mountains – a total dream for hiking and sightseeing. It is also the largest national park in the US outside of Alaska. There are almost 1,000 miles of roads to explore and reach different attractions. Luckily, considering the Death Valley National Park is so large, it is just a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Even though you should choose some things to do in Death Valley National Park before you set off, you’ll need to have a bit of an itinerary to squeeze it into a day trip effectively. The top attractions in Death Valley are Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Sand Dunes, and Wildrose Charcoal Kiln.

As one of the most iconic and popular day trips from Las Vegas, it’s easy to add Death Valley National Park to this list. Treat Death Valley National Park as a given when choosing day trips – the only question is what you will do when you visit. Check out our guide on the  best things to do in Death Valley  for extra inspiration or take a look at guided tours .

6. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is stunning. There are no two ways about it. The sandstone canyon swirls in photogenic formations and gets so narrow in sections that it transforms into a slot canyon. Antelope Canyon is well worth visiting if you like hiking (or even just tolerate hiking if it means reaching very scenic places) .

The canyon sits on Navajo Nation lands, and you can arrange a tour with a Navajo guide – to learn about its beauty, geography, and cultural significance. There are even  photo tours  where you are accompanied by experienced photographers. It is easily one of the most memorable day trips from Las Vegas.

When deciding to visit Antelope Canyon, your two main choices are Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Upper Antelope is the most popular and much easier to walk through. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little more tricky and less frequented because of this. Full disclosure, Antelope Canyon – whichever section you choose – is one of our most ambitious Las Vegas day trips.

Antelope Canyon is a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, so definitely no mean feat. In an ideal world, you’d break down a trip to Antelope Canyon across a couple of days as a detour from Las Vegas. But if you need to squeeze it into a day trip, insure multiple drivers to split driving or invest in a guided tour  that provides round-trip transportation.

7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful day trip option from Las Vegas. It only takes a little guesswork to figure out that Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area gets its name from the amount of bright red rocks. It is full of sandstone that is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset when golden hours set the whole Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on fire.

The red colors are almost blinding at these times. And angle your visit to coincide with these hours. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is most famous for its scenic drive – a 13 miles stretch of road that cuts through some of the most dramatic scenery.

Aside from the famed scenic drive, there are petroglyphs, seasonal waterfalls, and hiking trails galore. If you can, plan to visit some of the attractions and finish with a sunset scenic drive. Distance-wise, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas.

You can reach the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area’s Visitor’s Center in 30 minutes, a convenient addition to your itinerary. For us, the photogenic red rocks are the main draw. It is somewhere that you can quickly tick off  that  Vegas desert experience.

8. Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest is a total of 1.6 million acres of stunning plateaus, peaks, and prairies. This is the sort of place to bring binoculars, as wildlife like grazing bison are just common sightings. The national forest sits on the Colorado Plateau and is a hotspot for wildlife sightings, flora, and fauna.

And between prairies and mountain peaks is a dense blanket of pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pines. You can fully embrace the national forest with over 300 miles of hiking trails. Or, for the whole ‘summer camp’ throwback, head out boating or fishing. Kaibab National Forest is one of the most wholesome day trips from Las Vegas. You’ll love it.

Admittedly, Kaibab National Forest is a long day trip from Las Vegas. Allow a 3-hour drive to reach the forest from Sin City, and consider allowing extra time to detour to Flagstaff for skiing or the Grand Canyon, which is located just north of Kaibab National Forest. Extend Kaibab National Forest from a day trip to an overnight stay if you can. This way, you can combine it with a visit to other famous nearby attractions. Kaibab National Forest has a lot of potential – day trip or otherwise – so we had to include it.

9. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a beautiful day trip and a greener version of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It has the same red sandstone rock formations and a stunning Zion Canyon. Still, it also has the Virgin River cutting through the national park. Greenery and forests have popped up along its banks – creating a stunning hybrid between the desert and abundant green space.

Less than 150,000 acres in size, Zion National Park is a very feasible day trip from Las Vegas and full of excellent hiking trails where you can embrace contrasting landscapes. You can hike to the Emerald Pools for some scenic water scenery. It is also notably home to Angels Landing, renowned as one of the  best hiking trails in Zion , if not the US.

It is a 2.5-hour drive to Zion National Park, just over the Utah border near St. George. It is super easy to visit if you hire a car and set off early enough to allow a full day in the park. You can always stop for a break in St George, which has the impressive Bloomington Petroglyph Park and the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It is a fantastic halfway point.

10. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is another red rock attraction feasible as a Las Vegas day trip. It is a fabulous place to tick off that red rock experience, and the sandstone is incredibly stunning at sunrise and sunset. What makes Valley of Fire State Park different from the other red rock options, though, you may rightly ask?

Primarily its more challenging hikes and the fact it is home to petrified logs. Silica Done is an awe-inspiring hiking attraction to tackle. While the Petrified Logs Loop is perfect for getting up close to fossilized trees. Valley of Fire State Park is approximately 46,000 acres and is full of activities. The petrified logs and unique hiking make it worthwhile for us – they are some fantastic  things to do in Valley of Fire State Park.

Valley of Fire State Park is just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, so a very feasible day trip. It is also excellently combined with a trip to Lake Mead since one driving route takes you directly past the north shore of the lake. You could go hiking and then dip in Lake Mead to cool down.

11. Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most bizarre day trips from Las Vegas. Apart from the word ‘magic’, the name Seven Magic Mountains may sound unassuming, but this attraction is anything but ordinary. The striking structures consist of a line of brightly colored rocks stacked on each other with a dramatic backdrop of mountains behind them. The ‘mountains’ are essentially a giant art display. And millions of tourists flock to snap photos and gaze at this beautiful display.

Admittedly, Seven Magic Mountains is a 15-minute attraction to visit. If you don’t time your visit right, it can be heaving with camera-happy tourists and dust. But the main selling points are that Seven Magic Mountains is free to enter, alluring to creative enthusiasts, and just a 20-minute drive from Las Vegas. For us, these pros won the day and snuck Seven Magic Mountains onto our list of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

12. Cathedral Gorge State Park

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a brilliant addition to your day trips from Las Vegas if you like outdoor activities. The nearly 2,000-acre park is most famous for its Cathedral Gorge canyons, which get their bright colors and unique erosion from ancient lakebeds. Cathedral Gorge State Park is full of bizarre spires and fascinating rock formations. If you want somewhere to hike, snap photos, and are interested in geology, you are on to a winner.

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a medium distance from Las Vegas – approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by car one way. It is our northernmost attraction in this guide and provides a brilliant insight into local geology. You’ll drive through the Desert National Wildlife Range, pass the Stonehenge replica, and even the Alien Research Center. There is a ton to stop off and see on the way, which also convinced us to add Cathedral Gorge State Park to our guide.

13. Lake Mead

Lake Mead is a huge reservoir created by the Hoover Dam and fed by the Colorado River. While it is primarily a water source (supplying over 25 million people), it is also a place for recreation. And in some designated areas, even swimming is perfect in summer months to escape the Las Vegas heat. The best swimming spots are Willow Beach and Boulder Swim Beach, which have shallow waters and rocky beaches.

Lake Mead is a fantastic place to visit from Las Vegas and one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas in summer. With its staggering water capacity, Lake Mead is also the largest reservoir the US has – a lofty title. So, it is apparent why Lake Mead is an iconic day trip from Las Vegas.

Lake Mead is just a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas, depending on the whereabouts of the lake that you visit. The most tempting part of this day trip is undoubtedly the swimming opportunities. However, Lake Mead also has some stunning desert scenery; what more dramatic backdrop could you want? And if swimming isn’t your forte, then there is boating and fishing to enjoy. Lake Mead is scenic, fun, and refreshing.

14. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very cool. We are talking rock spires, overlooks, and a natural amphitheater. As far as day trips from Las Vegas go, this 35,000-acre park is a worthy candidate. Its rock formations are striking and photogenic enough to justify its grand collection of  hiking trails . Natural Bridge, Bryce Point, and Fairyland Point are all fantastic attractions in Bryce Canyon National Park.

As a destination in its own right, Bryce Canyon National Park is well worth a 4-hour drive into Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park has all the gusto to rival larger, more popular national parks. So we’ve added it as an ambitious day trip from Las Vegas, ideal for those wanting to branch out from Nevada into neighboring Utah.

Logistics-wise, hiring a car that multiple people are insured to drive is obviously better. If you can split the driving between two people, Bryce Canyon National Park will be feasible as one of your day trips from Las Vegas. It is fantastic to combine with Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Zion National Park, and Dixie National Forest – all of which you drive directly past. Otherwise, you could extend your driving time to head south and incorporate the Grand Canyon. Driving to Bryce Canyon National Park from Las Vegas is as intense as a day trip. Still, it has one of the best road trip itineraries in the US.

15. Extraterrestrial Highway

Extraterrestrial Highway is one of the most exciting day trips from Las Vegas – whether you are a believer or not. The Extraterrestrial Highway is a 98-mile stretch of road encompassing some of the US’s most incredible alien-themed attractions. Starting from Las Vegas, you head up the Nevada 375, aka the sight of the most UFO sighting in the US. There have been so many UFO sightings along this highway that the Nevada state renamed it.

And true to its namesake, it makes for one of the best alien-themed road trips with a mixture of natural and manmade attractions, even if you don’t see a real-life UFO. You can see the sailing stones at Death Valley Inn, peer from the top of Tikaboo Peak at Area 51, stop by the Alien Research Center (more on that later), or go UFO gazing at Lower Pahranagat Lake.

The whole drive should take approximately 3 hours one way, so pick out the highlights that most stand out to you. Extraterrestrial Highway is easily a full-day activity if you drive the whole length. If you don’t drive, it is worth looking into guided tours that provide round-trip transportation to specific attractions. Extraterrestrial Highway is one of the wackiest day trips from Las Vegas, but definitely a fan favorite simply for its outlandish novelty.

16. Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park is tiny at just 7,400 acres. But for such a small area, it sure packs a punch. At Snow Canyon State Park, you can ride horseback between sandstone canyons, hike past lava tubes, and check out the extinct Santa Clara volcano. There are around 16 miles of shared-use trails for riders and hikers – more than enough to keep you entertained for a day on one of your day trips from Las Vegas.

Snow Canyon State Park really stands out for its volcanic element. Between lava tubes and extinct volcanoes, you’ll indeed have a lot of geological history and unique landmarks to learn about and sightsee. Its smaller size also makes it a super feasible day trip.

Snow Canyon State Park is a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. It is easily combined with the other attractions in southwest Utah, like Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Zion National Park. Or you can just treat it as a half-day adventure.

17. Emerald Cave Kayaking

Emerald Cave is a stunning cave with depths of up to 24 feet and a striking green color. The mixture of sunlight and algae lights up the cave in translucent green. This attraction really is natural beauty at its best. Emerald Cave is a beautiful reason to escape the big city. Its good looks guarantee it a spot on our guide.

Emerald Cave is just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. It is located just outside of Willow Beach and on the Colorado River. This section of the Colorado River is serene and peaceful, and heading through the cave and bright green waters is a beautiful day trip from Las Vegas. You can kayak from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave in as little as 1.5 hours – booking a guided tour or renting a kayak independently.

18. Climb Mount Charleston Peak

Hiking Mount Charleston is a challenging feat. The Charleston Peak South Trail takes nearly 11 hours to complete and is considered a challenging route. As far as day trips from Las Vegas go, Mount Charleston is the most tricky. You’ll tackle an elevation gain of 1,541 meters, traversing switchbacks up Echo Cliffs and the South Rim Plateau. Mount Charleston stands at 3,632 meters in height and is one of Nevada’s highest peaks.

Luckily, Charleston Peak is just a 45-minute drive west of Las Vegas. So you won’t have far to go after walking for 11 hours. The drive is pretty scenic, too, taking you through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. For fitness enthusiasts and experienced hikers, climbing Charleseak is a must.

19. Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is one of the most convenient day trips from Las Vegas. At approximately 1.5 million acres in size, it spans a vast area. It is home to a massive population of Joshua trees – perfect if you still need to venture as far as Joshua Tree National Park. The varied landscape rolls from lava tubes to a more classic sand dune-style desert wilderness. Mojave National Preserve is great fun to explore. And you can choose horseback riding, 4WD, or enjoy the hiking trails.

Mojave National Preserve is 2.5 hours from Las Vegas by car. However, if you take the scenic route, which loops you through the national preserve, it takes 2 hours and 40 minutes to reach the Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. It is a brilliant road trip with plenty of fun driving, diverse scenery, and many stop-off points.

20. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River

Going whitewater rafting is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas for adrenaline junkies. And for the ultimate rafting experience, you just have to book a day trip to the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is sliced in half by the infamous Colorado River and is the ideal place to jump your heart into your mouth.

The rapids on the Grand Canyon’s section of the Colorado River are 1-10 scale, with some super sketchy areas and more beginner-suitable rapids if you want to dip your toes in. Most white water rafting tours in the Grand Canyon tackle up to Phantom Ranch – a point right in the heart of the canyon. You’ll be in for a treat if you haven’t white water rafted before. While if you have, the novelty of rafting through the Grand Canyon is the real deal.

Regardless of which tour operator you choose, the Grand Canyon is around a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, so you can expect a full day out if you go whitewater rafting in the canyon. The exhilaration will make it all worthwhile, and the excitement makes it so popular.

21. Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is hardly a tiny town. However, it is a much calmer alternative than staying in Las Vegas for another full day. If you need a break from the Vegas antics, Lake Havasu City is an ideal candidate and is just 2 hours and 20 minutes away. It has stunning lakeside beaches and a ridiculously scenic state park that hugs the Lake Havasu shoreline.

Another massive draw of Lake Havasu City is London Bridge which was transported from England in the 1970s and is one of the largest antiques ever sold. The London Bridge was dismantled and restructured in Lake Havasu City, now explorable independently or as a walking tour. So you’ll be well entertained for a day between London Bridge and the Lake Havasu State Park and beaches.

Lake Havasu City is famous for its iconic lakeside locale and the novelty of London Bridge. There isn’t anywhere you can enjoy a quiet beach apart from Lake Havasu City near Vegas, so that is the main reason we’ve added it to this guide. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is fantastic but extremely busy and mainstream in tourism, so Lake Havasu City is an excellent alternative destination. You can also stop at Boulder City or Willow Beach on the way.

22. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a long day trip, approximately a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Las Vegas. Its iconic Joshua trees sprout throughout the nearly 800,000 acres of the desert landscape. Joshua trees are spiny trees that just up branchless like cacti or palm trees and only have leaves at the very ends of their branches. People tend to see Joshua trees as symbols of strength and beauty, and the trees coined their names from Mormon settlers who felt guided by the trees during this 19th-century journey.

If you love hiking, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas. You can check out the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Cholla Cactus Garden Trail, or the Arch Rock Nature Trail. Even driving through Joshua Tree National Park is beautiful, though, so be prepared to bask in scenic drives.

Despite its distance from Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park is definitely worth a day trip – just because of its famous and fantastic scenery. Its good looks won our vote. And if you have a bit longer, you can always stop overnight in Palm Springs or camp to make the whole experience more relaxing on the driving front.

23. Nelson Ghost Town

Ready for a bit more of an unusual day trip from Las Vegas? Nelson Ghost Town is an atmospheric gold mine that was abandoned around the 1930s and is now like a time capsule to days gone by. It is like stepping into the past, with buildings restored to their former glory and retro signs and relics everywhere.

Many people liken it to a Disney-style experience because it is so well-maintained. However, it is an impressive historical attraction and fantastic for anyone wanting a more cultural day trip from Vegas. The ghost town element is just the cherry on top, adding a bit of novelty to the experience.

At just a 45-minute drive from Vegas, Nelson Ghost Town is hardly a lot of effort to incorporate into an itinerary. You can park alongside many old retro vehicles, which adds to the historical allure. Nelson Ghost Town really itches that historical and cultural spot that last Vegas can lack, so we just had to add it to our list. It’s also perfectly combined with an Eldorado Canyon tour, and there are tons of mine sightseeing hiking trails nearby if you want to extend your experience.

Day Trips from Las Vegas: FAQs

Day trips from Las Vegas are so exciting, whether you drive to Dixie National Forest or stop by the Alien Research Center. There is tons of variety and different landscapes. In summer months, the Colorado River might call your name. The Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park can be explored leisurely at lower temperatures in winter. But what else do you need to know? Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Is Zion a day trip from Las Vegas?

Yes, Zion is within driving distance from Las Vegas, so it is a feasible day trip. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive to Zion National Park, so set off nice and early to maximize your time for sightseeing and enjoying hiking trails.

What is within 2 hours of Las Vegas?

There are loads of things to do within 2 hours of Las Vegas. You can visit Zion National Park, Lake Mead, Mojave National Preserve, Death Valley National Park, and smaller cities like Boulder City.

Is Joshua Tree near Las Vegas?

Joshua Tree is just 3 hours away so within easy driving distance from Las Vegas. It might be a long day trip, but it is definitely feasible if it is your bucket list destination.

How many days in Vegas is enough?

3 days in Las Vegas is enough to squeeze in one day trip and see a bit of the Vegas Strip. However, ideally, you’d stay a minimum of 5 days to really make the most of the city and its day trips.

To Conclude

Day trips from Las Vegas are really worth drawing yourself away from Las Vegas Strip. Sin City is actually fantastically positioned to explore more natural destinations – the Virgin River, Magic Mountains, or one of the nearby national parks. You can rent a car and arrange day trips from Las Vegas independently; all of these best day trips are within driving distance from Las Vegas. Alternatively, book a guided tour that transfers you from Las Vegas. There are many tours, like a Grand Canyon West tour that includes transfers from Las Vegas, meaning you get to kick back and avoid driving.

Looking for more Vegas inspiration? Here is our guide on where to stay in  Las Vegas . Finding a good accommodation as a base is vital for getting the most out of your Vegas trip – so get the low down on neighborhoods and best hotels before booking.

Plan Your Next Trip to Las Vegas With These Resources

• Where to Stay in Las Vegas: Best Places and Areas
• Off the Strip – Things to do Outside Las Vegas
• 19 Best Road Trips in The US
• 30 Best Things to Do in Reno, NV
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Thank you so much for providing this useful information