trips out of las 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 :)

21 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas

If you live in Las Vegas or visiting Sin City and want to explore beyond the Strip, there is a huge number of road trip options available.

Whether you want to explore the desert, see giant sequoias, spend time in California's biggest cities or relax on a beach, our list of the 21 best road trips from Las Vegas will have you covered.

The following list starts with the closest to Las Vegas and moves on to longer drives further down the list so scroll down depending on how far you're prepared to go! You can also can find a map highlighting the best road trips from Las Vegas below:

1. Nelson Ghost Town and Eldorado Canyon Gold Mine

45 minutes from Las Vegas (45 miles)

Just outside Las Vegas and only a 45 minute drive from the Strip is the ghost town of Nelson. To get here from Las Vegas, head southeast out of the city towards Henderson and keep on going past Boulder City along US-95 and Route 165.

The ghost town was a disused old mining town before the current owners moved in over 25 years ago. The ghost town elements were retained and a little enhanced to make it more interesting and today you can visit the ghost town to see what it's all about.

There's lots and lots of half-rusted old cars which is both really interesting and mighty frustrating if you're a big fan of cars like me. Other props include rattle snakes in a freezer and crashed airplanes. Not all of it is completely authentic...

But that doesn't really matter - you're here to walk around and take some amazing photos. Take a lot of care while walking around - rattle snakes are common so watch out and report any you see to the guides.

Tours down the gold mine take place at 9am, 12pm and 2pm as long as there's at least 4 adults (although they may take less in the off-season). The tours will take you through the richest mine in Nevada that operated for almost 80 years and closed as World War II broke out.

Bring another layer with you - the tour can take over an hour and it can feel a little cool inside the mine.

2. A short drive to the Valley of Fire State Park

50 minutes from Las Vegas (49 miles)

The Valley of Fire is a rocky part of the Mojave desert under an hour's drive out of Las Vegas.

If you're looking for a day road trip out and want to go into the desert but don't want to make the 2+ hour drive to Death Valley, the Valley of Fire is a great option.

Follow the I-15 north from Las Vegas for half an hour and follow the turning onto the Valley of Fire Highway which will take you into the park.

The unique mix of rocks, layered colors and amazing hiking routes is the oldest State Park in Nevada, being first designated back in 1935 after opening the year before.

The park was home to ancient Ancestral Puebloan tribes and you can find petroglyphs (wall drawings) that are thousands of years old in the park.

As with other deserts near Las Vegas, temperatures in the summer get very hot. Average daily highs from June to August are over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bring lots of water if you're planning to visit in the summer but March to April and October to November are much better when the weather is mild making it much more pleasant.

3. Visit Lake Mead and see the Hoover Dam

55 minutes from Las Vegas (39 miles)

For those who want to get out of Las Vegas but don't want to go far, the closest place to go is the Hoover Dam. It's in at #3 in the list because visiting the Dam and the nearby Lake Mead from Las Vegas requires some local driving but you won't have to go too far.

The Hoover Dam is a world famous installation that helps Vegas have water and electricity supplies despite the city being located in the middle of one of the driest deserts in the world.

Built during the Great Depression, Hoover Dam was much bigger than any dam ever built before it and Lake Mead continues to be the largest water reservoir in the United States today.

Talking of Lake Mead, it's not just there to turn the turbines of the dam. You can go on a cruise around the lake, hire a boat or relax on Boulder Beach.

In the afternoon, you can take a drive along Northshore Road - it starts just outside Henderson and goes for over 50 miles towards the Valley of Fire State Park (#2 above).

It's a great drive with scenic places to stop along the way and you can combine a visit to the Valley of Fire with Lake Mead for a great (although long) day road trip out of Las Vegas.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

4. A trip to the desert - Mojave National Preserve

1 hour from Las Vegas (59 miles)

Las Vegas sits in the middle of the Mojave desert with parts of the driest part of North America spanning corners of California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona.

The Death Valley National Park (#5 below) and Joshua Tree National Park (#8) are the two best known places to go and explore the hot and inhospitable Mojave desert, but the less known and less popular Mojave National Preserve is much close to Las Vegas.

Although a lot of the Mojave National Preserve is rocky desert, there's a few interesting parts to explore.

The Cima Dome and the Shadow Valley next to it are home to a forest of Joshua trees. The term forest is a little generous here as the trees are quite spread out and you won't find birds singing in the branches or creatures living in the undergrowth, but this is the most dense area for Joshua trees anywhere and you'll see more here than in the Joshua Tree National Park!

The Mojave Desert Lava Tube is further west and you'll need a reasonable SUV or car capable of going offroad to navigate several miles of dirt track to get here.

The Lava Tube is a series of rooms underneath the surface of the desert that feel like caves - they were created when molten lava made its way through the ground creating the unique space.

Make sure you stop at the Castle Mountains National Monument . Again - you'll need something with 4-wheel drive and decent tires to get here, but sitting right on the edge of the preserve, this is one of the prettiest parts with a little more in terms of plants and wildlife to see.

5. Feel the heat in Death Valley National Park

1 hour 55 minutes from Las Vegas (126 miles)

If spending a few days in the hottest place on Earth and some of the least hospitable environments anywhere on the planet sounds like fun, the Death Valley National Park is less than 2 hours away from Las Vegas .

If you thought Vegas was too hot in the summer, the average (yes... average) daily high is above 120 degrees from June through to August. I'd pick one of the other 20 entries on this list if you're looking for a road trip in the middle of the summer.

If you come from November to March, the weather is much milder and you'll have a much better trip exploring the varying landscapes that Death Valley has to offer. There are dried out salt flats from where lakes and seas once covered the valley, there's rocky sections with mountains and even sand dunes.

Death Valley is the largest National Park in the United States excluding Alaska and is a designated International Dark Sky Park. This means there's no artificial light anywhere within the park at night and if you're camping on a clear day, the view of the stars above is phenomenal.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas through Death Valley National Park

6. Go fishing on Lake Havasu, Arizona

2 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (153 miles)

Lake Havasu sits on the Arizona - California border south of Las Vegas. Like many lakes in Southwestern United States, the lake is an artificially created reservoir after the Colorado River flowing through the local valley was dammed by the Parker Dam in the 1930s.

Today the lake is a popular destination for 2 main reasons: the fishing and London Bridge.

Fishing is a hugely popular activity on the lake - there's an abundant population of bass in the lake and big fishing competitions happen frequently where people from across the United States come to compete.

London Bridge is a very unusual sight sitting across a canal in Lake Havasu City and connecting it to Thompson Bay. The name gives away where the bridge came from - in 1968 the local government won an auction for the sale of the original London Bridge that was being replaced in central London.

After a $2.5m winning bid for the bridge, each brick was meticulously taken apart and labeled so that the whole bridge could be shipped and reconstructed in Arizona.

It certainly looks very quirky and majorly out of place (in a weird good way) and well worth the visit to Lake Havasu!

7. Be at one with nature in Zion National Park, Utah

2 hours 40 minutes from Las Vegas (160 miles)

Zion National Park in southwestern Utah might just be one of the most scenic National Park in the entirety of the United States and it's less than 3 hours away from Las Vegas on a road trip !

To get to Zion National Park, follow the I-15 north out of Las Vegas and keep on going until you cross the border into Utah. From here, State Route 9 will take you right into the heart of the park.

The main part of the park centers around Zion Canyon. Although it sits in-between deserts, the canyon is surprisingly green with forests and hundreds of species of birds and animals.

Zion National Park has some of the best trails you're likely to find anywhere - there's well made overlooks, paths carved through the rock and hikes for all abilities.

The Weeping Rock and Canyon Overlook trails are reasonably easy and take less than an hour. For the more experienced hikers, the Narrows is 16 miles long and involves hiking through a narrow canyon and wading through a cold river.

Some will hike the Narrows starting at the bottom and turn around once the going gets more tough making it a little easier and doable in a day.

If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park

8. See the amazing trees in Joshua Tree National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Las Vegas (187 miles)

Joshua Tree National Park is just over 3 hours away from Las Vegas on a road trip , about halfway on the way to San Diego.

Follow the I-15 out of Vegas and when you get to the edge of the Mojave National Preserve, cut right through it passing through Cima and Kelso to save half an hour against the "faster" interstates that go the long way around.

In fact, the Mojave is also on this list at #4, so if you've got enough time, you might as well combine these into one desert exploring road trip.

Joshua Tree National Park is named after the unique trees that grow here that look like a person standing up with arms stretched upwards. You'll definitely see plenty of them on your way around as well as rocks and lots and lots of desert.

Joshua Tree is one of the hottest deserts in the United States with daily highs during the summer months averaging 100 degrees Fahrenheit which can make hiking and camping tough.

If you time your visit right and come in the spring, March and April is the bloom season for desert flowers (yes - that's a thing!) and the temperature only rises to a mild 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park

9. Explore the wilderness of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

3 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (245 miles)

The Grand Staircase-Escalante is a large wilderness that was declared a National Monument only in 1996.

The monument occupies a large swathe of southern Utah that was the last part of the United States to be mapped and remains one of the least explored parts of the country although the monument's size was reduced dramatically under President Trump in 2017 to allow for commercial exploration.

Despite this, there are some amazing places to see here. The Zebra Slot Canyon is a narrow gorge with striped rocks that you can hike through. Be careful though - the hike is very tough and requires squeezing through very narrow gaps and making your way through water going up to neck height!

The Devil's Garden is one of those postcard-type sights with large rock hoodoos eerily standing around in the middle of the desert.

Many of the sights in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument can be reached from the small town of Escalante in the north. The I-15 and Utah-20 will take you to Route 12 which is the road that winds its way through the wilderness and eventually reaches Escalante.

Zebra Slot Canyon and the Devil's Garden are both a short drive south from the town and further south are the Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and the Jacob Hamblin Arch from the picture above.

10. Bryce Canyon National Park

3 hours 50 minutes from Las Vegas (260 miles)

Bryce Canyon is a small National Park that is not a canyon, but a collection of unique rock formations that look like amphitheaters with people-shaped rock formations that look like an audience sitting watching the spectacle.

You won't need more than a day to explore the 56 square miles of the park. There are trails that lead around the perimeter of the most popular parts of the park but don't forget that amphitheaters are located 8,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level (2,400 to 2,700 meters) so bring an extra layer of clothing - it can feel much cooler up there than down in the desert.

Bryce Canyon is located right on the way to most of the main sights in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument so you might want to combine them into a single road trip. Zion National Park is also on the way in case you have a lot of time on your hands.

If you want to avoid the crowds and get some good photos, try to get to the park early - you might want to stay somewhere not too far and get here before sunrise for some epic views of the sun rays poking through the crowds of hoodoo rocks.

11. See the size of the Grand Canyon

4 hours 15 minutes from Las Vegas (275 miles)

Grand Canyon is the most popular destination for a road trip from Las Vegas . The 277-mile long canyon has some of the most spectacular scenery close to Las Vegas making it the most popular starting point for the 5 million visitors that come to the Grand Canyon every year.

It'll take you about as long to get to the North Rim as it will to the South - the South Rim is a more popular destination with better facilities and the Grand Canyon Village which is why you might want to opt for the route around the north of the canyon instead.

If you'd specifically would like to visit the South Rim, you can find our detailed road trip guide here .

There are lots of places you can stop to see the Grand Canyon. Most people will go straight to the Grand Canyon Village area of the National Park, but there are other spots that have far fewer people that are just as amazing - the Toroweap and Twin Point Overlooks along the north rim are both good options.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk on the south rim is much closer to Vegas - it'll take a little over 2 hours to get there, but you'll have to share the view with a lot of other people and other than a short walk to Guano Point, there's not much else to do here and no trails.

One of the best trails along the bottom of the canyon and along the Colorado River is the Havasu Falls Trail - it'll take you past the Little Navajo Falls, Havasu Falls, Tigabo Supai and Mooney Falls which area all amazing. For those who are happy to venture further, Beaver Falls and Beaver Canyon further downstream are worth the hike.

If you approach the Grand Canyon via the north and have time, add a stop in the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument - these beautiful rocks have distinctive layers of different shades of red and yellow and soft sweeping lines that are great for a quick break along the journey.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

12. Hike through the Red rocks of Sedona

4 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (280 miles)

If you haven't heard of the Red Rocks of Sedona, you most definitely have seen them on TV or in a movie.

The amazing rock formations include the towering Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Bell Rock, but there's a lot more to explore than just the big name options.

There are two state parks - the Red Rock State Park being the best known and the Slide Rock State Park to the north of Sedona. For those who want to do a drive through tour, you can drive along the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Route 179) to see many of the amazing sights without getting out of your car.

But if you've come this far, you really should get out and explore. There are amazing trails that will take you right up to the rocks, over stunning red rock arches and through canyons.

The drive from Las Vegas will take you to Kingman before hopping on the I-40 to Flagstaff. You can make a stop in the city before driving south to Sedona.

With so much to explore, you can easily spend a long weekend exploring the areas around Sedona and still not cover most of it.

It may not be as hot as the Mojave desert and Death Valley in particular, but summer temperatures still reach average daily highs of 95 degrees Fahrenheit so bring lots of water. If you have the luxury of choice, visiting in the spring and fall will be more comfortable.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Sedona

13. The Hollywood road trip: Los Angeles and Malibu

4 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (304 miles)

If you want to escape the desert and head to the City of Angels, then get on the I-15 and follow it until you cross the Angeles National Forest. Traffic around L.A. can be a big factor in whether it'll take you less than 4 hours to get into the city or something closer to 6 - leave early in the morning so that you are entering Los Angeles at around 1pm when the traffic shouldn't be too bad on the freeways.

Los Angeles has so much to see and do, you can spend a week or two and still feel like you've hardly seen it all! You've got to visit Hollywood and walk the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard no matter how cliche it might sound!

After measuring your hand and feet against the celebrity prints, head for the Sunset Strip and then down to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. I'm not the type to shop here, but the people watching is fascinating as they carefully park their Ferrari to go bag shopping.

Don't miss out on stops in Culver City, Santa Monica State Beach and Venice Beach as you make your way around the city. If you are coming with kids or like a day out at a theme park, Universal Studios in Hollywood and Disneyland in Anaheim are both amazing.

As you venture further west past the Pacific Palisades, you'll discover Malibu Beach which stretches for miles and miles along the coast with the Santa Monica Mountains to your right.

The beach can get busy at weekends and over the summer but you can still find great spots if you drive a little further towards El Matador Beach past Point Dume.

If you drive a few minutes inland, the Santa Monica Mountains have spectacular hiking trails with views of the Pacific Ocean down below which is perfect for an afternoon activity after spending the morning soaking up the sun.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

14. Relax by the seaside in San Diego

5 hours from Las Vegas (332 miles)

San Diego may be a solid 5 hours' drive from Las Vegas , but there's lots of options to stop along the way and it's a great city to visit and spend a few days in so it's got to be worth you considering for your road trip from Las Vegas.

The easiest way to get to San Diego is to follow the I-15 out of Las Vegas towards Los Angeles and keep on following the I-15 until you're in San Diego 5 hours later. You can save a few minutes by cutting through the I-215 to avoid getting closer to LA's notorious traffic jams.

However a few detours can add great places to stop and cut the journey up into shorter stints. If you head towards the California coast, the towns of San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente are great pit stop options as is Carlsbad's Legoland.

If you go the slower but more direct route, Joshua Tree National Park (#8 above), Salton Sea and Palm Springs are all great places to visit in and around the Coachella Valley.

San Diego itself is a city that almost always has perfect weather due to its unique position on the coast and the prevailing ocean currents.

You can roam through the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter or have a fish taco in La Jolla overlooking the resident seals relaxing in the cove.

Spend some time in the huge Balboa Park - not only is it perfect for a stroll, but you'll find museums, entertainment venues and the world-famous San Diego Zoo all within its grounds.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

15. Go hiking in the Yosemite National Park

5 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (340 miles)

Yosemite is the most famous of the California National Parks and one of the best known in the country. Getting to Yosemite from Las Vegas is relatively easy - it's one of the few parts of the Sierra Nevada Mountains where you can drive across, although the Tioga Pass is closed when it gets snowy which means it's shut for the winter from some point in late October.

The majority of the visitors that come to Yosemite only go to the Yosemite Valley which only covers a tiny fraction of the whole park which stretches over 1,000 square miles.

You should still visit Yosemite Valley to see the Merced River flowing past the famous El Capitan rock but if you want to see more nature and walk the wild trails, head further out in the park.

Yosemite Valley gets busier later on in the day as some people from San Jose, the Silicon Valley and San Francisco come on day trips or for the weekend. Coming in the morning on a weekday will mean far fewer people although you'll still have to book ahead if you want to camp or hike the wilderness.

Death Valley National Park (#5 above) and Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks (#19 below) are good additional stops on the way to or back from Yosemite if you have enough time.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

16. Visit the Mormon Capital in Salt Lake City, Utah

6 hours from Las Vegas (421 miles)

Salt Lake City is famous for its location, surrounded by mountains on 3 sides and the lake on the other. It's also known as the home of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the city is a fascinating visit.

The road trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City is over 400 miles long but these are about the easiest 400 miles you'll ever have to drive. Get on the I-15 headed north that runs exactly 1 block to the west of the Strip and stay there. 6 hours later you'll find yourself right in the middle of Salt Lake City which is where you should park up!

Although less than half of the population in Salt Lake City is Mormon, you can see the signs of the church's presence throughout the city. The Mormon Temple is the grandest and largest in the world and you can see it on Temple Square with the Reflecting Pool in front of it.

Unfortunately the temple is closed to visitors and those who are not members of the church as are most of the other significant Latter-Day Saints buildings around the city. The temple is also undergoing a major reconstruction so it's likely to not be as great a sight for a few years yet.

However you can visit the Tabernacle which puts on shows through the year and spend some time in the mountains surrounding the city. Literally minutes away from downtown you can find amazing hiking routes in the winter and big ski resorts in the winter!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City

17. See the saguaro cacti en route to Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (434 miles)

Sitting a few miles from the border with Arizona, a road trip from Las Vegas to the Copper State is an obvious option.

This route covers a lot of desert with stops in Phoenix/Scottsdale and Tucson - if you want to cover more of Arizona, reroute via Sedona on the way to Phoenix and visit the Red Rock and Slide Rock State Parks (See #12 above).

You can also learn more about the road trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix on our detailed road trip guide .

As you make your way over Hoover Dam (worth the slight detour), you'll begin noticing how the Mojave desert gradually changes into the Sonoran. The elevation lowers a little, the rocks and sand become a little more red in color and Joshua trees make way for the saguaros.

If you don't know what a saguaro is, check the registration plates on the Arizona cars around you - those giant cactus plants with the thick green arms that can reach over 40 feet (12 m) in height.

These cacti (or is it cactuses?) grow to be 150 years old or even older and the ones with several arms are the oldest - it takes them 50 years to just get up to waist-height!

Phoenix and Scottsdale are a large metro area with an endless number of things to do - the art scene in particular is buzzing with the Heard Museum, art galleries and various pop up exhibitions to visit.

Scottsdale has a more relaxed small town vibe to the tall skyscrapers of Phoenix and if you want to go out for dinner or drinks after, Scottsdale is where you should head.

Tucson has an interesting mix of architecture with a colonial style that looks very European. You won't forget you're in the middle of a desert though - the city's main attraction is the Saguaro National Park on the outskirts that also houses the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix

18. Marvel at the natural wonders of Monument Valley

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (400 miles)

Monument Valley sits on the border between Utah and Arizona and you may be surprised to know that it is not a National Park or a National Monument.

In fact, it has no real designation because it is located on the land of the Navajo Nation Reservation and can therefore not be classified as Federal or State protected land.

Although you're spoiled for choice for road trips to see amazing nature from Las Vegas, Monument Valley has to be high on your list for the totally unbelievable view that will open up.

The giant red rocks are spread through the valley as though they fell out of the sky and landed here in an ancient time and some of them measure over 1,000 ft (300 m) from the ground which is a pretty impressive height.

You can drive north or south of the Grand Canyon to get here and although the northern route is 30 miles shorter, they will both take about the same amount of time.

Seeing as you're going right past it, you really should make a few stops along the Grand Canyon (#11 above) to see the amazing sights below and maybe take a hike depending on how much time you've got. The Horseshoe Bend further along the canyon near Page is a great spot for an amazing photo.

Parts of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are also on the way if you follow the north route and a small detour from the south route will take you to the Red Rock State Park near Sedona (#12 above).

In fact, if you extend your trip and add in the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in Utah and follow different routes to and from Monument Valley, you'll see most of the amazing nature sights in the region in one epic road trip!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Monument Valley

19. See giant sequoias in Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks

8 hours from Las Vegas (455 miles)

Kings Canyon and Sequoia are two neighboring National Parks that seamlessly merge into each other in California's Sierra Nevada.

The 8-hour drive might put you off, but the time it takes to get here depends a lot on where in the parks you want to get to. The most popular destinations are in the western parts of the parks - Route 180 runs deep into the park to Kanawyers and is only accessible from the west.

Some of the most popular hikes and General Sherman, the world's largest tree also require you to loop around Sierra Nevada.

However, if you want to walk among the giant sequoia trees and hike through the mountains without seeing the "must see" sights, you can drive along California Highway 395 and take one of the small roads that runs into the parks from there and hiking one of the trails from the east.

Kearsarge Pass and Mount Whitney Trailheads are both great options and will take you about 4 and a half hours to get to.

As you'll be passing right through the Death Valley National Park (#5 above), you may as well add it onto your itinerary. The combined road trip will take you through the world's hottest desert and one of the most incredible lush forests that are only 2 hours away from each other!

20. Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Utah

8 hours from Las Vegas (521 miles)

The two National Parks in eastern Utah sit either side of the town of Moab. As both of these parks are incredible for hiking and exploring the wilderness, Moab gets busy during the summer months as the tourist season hits its peak. If you can delay your road trip until after Labor Day, you'll likely get better value accommodation and there'll be less people about.

Canyonlands is the larger of the two parks and you can get close to most of the sights by driving - the main road that leads into the park is the Grand View Point Road and it has plenty of places to park for the trails and overlooks including the Grand View Point right at the end of the road.

White Rim Road goes around the perimeter of the park and comes off the Grand View Point Road before you get to the visitor center - this road is open to SUVs, 4x4 vehicles and off-road bikes, but it's a little more than a dirt track and progress can be slow so allow plenty of time to drive if you're planning to go that way.

Arches is a smaller park and is closer and quicker to get to from Los Angeles than Canyonlands which means a lot more people spend time here. Many of the amazing rock formations are an easy stroll from the nearest parking spot making it easy to see a lot of the sights without too much effort.

You might need to make a reservation for a timed-entry permit while visiting Arches National Park. Please check the national park's website for up-to-date information.

Each park costs $30 to enter although you can get the America the Beautiful National Parks pass for $80 which gives you unlimited access to National Parks across the country for one car including all passengers, so you really should get that and use it for a few more trips later on!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Arches National Park

21. A long road trip across the Sierra Nevada to San Francisco

11 hours from Las Vegas (650 miles)

San Francisco may be a long drive from Las Vegas , but if you're really wanting to go on a proper road trip and have time to hand, this might just be the ultimate destination.

When planning the route for your road trip from Las Vegas, ignore the navigator directions. The I-15 and I-5 are not the most exciting of roads and there's better things to see between Vegas and the Fog City than Barstow and Bakersfield.

Time permitting, I would first head up to Death Valley (#5 above) and spend a night or two stargazing in one of the best places in the world to see the stars without light pollution.

After that, head north along the east side of the Sierra Nevada to Mammoth Lakes and then go over the Tioga Pass along California Highway 120.

This road will take you right through the heart of Yosemite (#15 above) which is well worth some of your time and a stop in the Yosemite Valley towards the end of the drive.

If you're not driving in the summer, the likelihood is that this road will be closed due to heavy snow. In this case your options are to keep on driving north towards Lake Tahoe and then taking the Carson Pass Highway (usually open throughout the winter) or the Lincoln Highway to Sacramento.

When you finally do get to San Francisco, there's so much to do you won't get close to doing it all even if you stay a week. See our guide to the best things to do in San Francisco to get inspired!

On the way back, you can come down the west side of Sierra Nevada and drive the super scenic State Route 180 that splits the Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks (#19 above), see the world's largest tree and then drive down the (even more scenic) Route 198 south.

A stop in the mountains of the Mojave desert (#4 above) on the way back will complete what would be one seriously epic road trip from Las Vegas that seems to include half of all the other destinations I've mentioned for shorter routes!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco

Below is a shortlist of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas if you are looking for some last-minute inspiration!

Best road trips from Las Vegas

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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.

Lightguard/Getty Images

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

lyndsikathleen/Getty Images

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

Thomas Roche/Getty Images

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

Mike Lyvers/Getty Images

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

Michael Lee/Getty Images

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

Bernard Friel/Getty Images

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

Matthew T. Carroll/Getty Images

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

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

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.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips from Las Vegas

See the best Fully Guided trips from Las Vegas, USA. We have 106 adventures that range from 1 days up to 21 days in length. The most popular time for tours leaving Las Vegas is September.

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106 fully guided tour packages from las vegas with 5,056 reviews.

Utah, Nevada & California

This tour is everything I’ve ever dreamed for, road trips, the hikes, breathtaking scenery, great people, I’m able to do a lot of things i can’t if I travel on my own, highly recommended

• Hiking & Trekking

3 Day Southwest USA National Parks Tour from Las Vegas

I don't like long rides, but the bus was comfortable and arrived right on time. The rides between stops were one or two hours, and the time moved along nicely, as the tour guide, named Indy, had us all fully engaged with stories and histories of where we were going. He was very knowledgeable, and the rides were a lot of fun. Everything, including the hotels and meals, went off without a single hiccup. Indy persuaded me to take the helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, which I hadn't planned to take, but he was right, and I'm glad I took it. He engaged us in such a way that when we all went to our respective rooms for the nights, everyone came together for dinner, rather than going off as couples or singles. Then, while touring the canyons and trails, everyone chose to stay together, like a big family. This added to the experience in a positive way, and I can see how the tour guide made this all happen. He really solidified his group, and we all became good friends. After the tour ended with a trip back to the Mirage in Las Vegas, we all got together on our own, for dinner and drinks at The Venetian, where the wine was excellent, as wine often is when consumed with good friends. It was a memorable evening after a memorable three-day trip. Everyone has kept in touch, exchanging photos and Instagrams and stuff. We were dubious about finding a tour group and guide that were reputable, and we feel lucky to have found Bindlestiff and Indy. We have already decided to take another trip next year with the same organization. This tour met all our expectations, and really surpassed them, and I highly recommend Bindlestiff.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Mountain Hikes

Yellowstone & Rocky Mountain Explorer

OUTSTANDING TOUR! Our tour guide Joseph Spaid was the best guide and i have taken many tours over the years. attentive to group needs, excellent meals choices and food organization. super knowledgeable on the area visited, personable professional d always willing to got the extra mile for us. he fitted in a lot of extras for our group including a surprise early morning visit the Lamar Valley for wildlife spotting - well worth it - wow! Thank you Joseph! Bindlestiff Tours was great at communicating with me pre tour. the shower sin Yellowstone were closed due to covid and they reached out to all guests prior to the tour to communicate this and had alternatives for showers lined up to fit in perfectly with out touring days. exceptional customer service ad extremely well organized. food was great, weather was perfect, guide was excellent. food prep was easy- mix of healthy strit frys, salads, BBQs and more. Loved every second for this tour and will be back for sure - thanks you Bindlestiff Tours!

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

Fantasia trip with lots of great hiking and sightseeing opportunities.

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Outstanding tour and tour guide. The trip was well organized, with half of the guests camping and half of the guests lodging. John, our tour guide, kept us informed and entertained us during the entire trip. Only criticism is that we had the same lunch just about every day. Highly recommend.

• Christmas & New Year

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Our tour guide,Vicky took care of us & exceeded my expectations for this tour!She was very punctual & showed us all that was described in the tour agenda plus a few other side trips!She shared interesting information on all the areas we visited & had some pretty humorous stories too!I would highly recommend this tour!

Private Tour -7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping

Utah Parks Circuit

We did this trip during the government strike in 2013 which meant all the National Parks were closed. Intrepid did a WONDERFUL job mitigating the situation and we still got to go camping and hiking at some select state parks. Luckily, the Grand Canyon was re-opened before our trip ended which was awesome. What a finale! Thank You Intrepid for giving us an awesome itinerary despite the challenges.

Hiking the Best of the West's National Parks

I don’t think there’s a better itinerary out there to see and explore as much as these national parks as we did! Cannot begin to count the number of times my breath was taken away at the scenes of grandeur we hiked to or camped amongst - an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you with sore feet but the fullest heart imaginable!

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Highlights of the Canyonlands

Excellent staff- had a great time!

National Parks Winter Tour

I cannot recommend this trip enough. It was the best I've ever been on! Bindlestiff took us to so many places and saw so much and yet, it didn't feel rushed at all. The magnitude of National and State parks that we covered was remarkable, and I thoroughly enjoyed the time spent in each. The group was very small- only 6 people. As a solo traveler, this was perfect because it allowed us to get to know each other and the friendly vibes felt so natural (no loneliness here!) Besides the sights, the obvious best thing about this trip was our guide, Joseph. He was the perfect balance of knowledgeable and fun, always making every effort to answer our questions, provide his own anecdotes and accommodate any of our special requests or preferences. Joseph is incredible and a true professional. The accomodation throughout the trip was excellent- all my needs were met and exceeded. Most hotels provided breakfast and, in the few incidences that they didn't, readily accessible alternatives were available. At first, I was concerned that picnic lunches would reduce the amount of time that we had to explore the sights. This wasn't the case at all. Joseph ensured that all lunches were well-catered and smoothly run. Originally, I'd planned to organize and self-navigate a trip similar to this all by myself. I am extremely glad that this plan didn't work out. Bindlestiff is an amazing company. If you are on the fence about booking this trip, don't be! You, like me, won't regret it for a single second.

Wonders of the American West (Classic, 10 Days)

We had a wonderful time. Don't expect five star hotels as this was, for the most part, in the accommodations in the National Parks. Richard Nieto, our driver was great! The tour was well planned out and made the maximum use of the time. Beautiful scenery. I would recommend this to anyone wishing a rustic experience.

Hiking Utah's National Parks

Prior to the start of my tour radar trip, it was difficult to communicate or ask questions. Once I met to tour guide Ally it was an excellent experience. Ally was information on the next step and reviewed what was needed on a daily basis. The schedule was busy, the hikes were mostly moderate as expected… She was able to direct all hikers on the trails. She assured that I was always able to complete each trail. We instructed to have and were prepared with plenty of water,

• Cultural Photography

Western Deserts – 3 days

The Western Desert 3 day tour was fantastic! I really enjoyed the incredible places we visited especially Antelope Canyon and Bryce Canyon and the main highlight throughout the tour was the incredible tour guide Lorenzo who was very knowledgeable and made everyone feel great with his remarkable people skills which connected with the group and myself, he was the x factor that made a huge difference to the experience. Thank you for this tour and experience.

Natural Highlights of California National Geographic Journeys

Fantastic trip, well well organised our CEO Lisa was the best tour guide we have ever had.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours from Las Vegas

Amazing trip to see some of the best of US National Parks. Very educational and fun to learn about the history of the area and meet the locals on various tours and restaurants.

Mesmerizing Grand Tetons! I've been with Bindlestiff before and they did not disappoint the second time! Grand Tetons was mesmerizing and I am so glad I got this done through Bindlestiff!

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The 8 best day trips from Las Vegas

Oct 8, 2021 • 6 min read

Escape from Sin City on these top 8 day trips from Vegas © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Go beyond the crowds and bright lights of Las Vegas to experience the vastness of Nevada's  dynamic landscapes. Those who enjoy wild and lonely places, will love driving the scenic and remote back roads, so hop in the car to experience the best of the region on a day trip from Las Vegas.

1. Grand Canyon

No matter how much you read about the Grand Canyon or how many photographs you've seen, nothing really prepares you for the sight of it. One of the world's seven natural wonders, it's so startlingly familiar and iconic you can't take your eyes off it. The canyon's immensity, the sheer intensity of light and shadow at sunrise or sunset, even its very age, scream for superlatives. And this is why you shouldn't be doing it as part of a day trip. Consider staying several days at the canyon instead of trying to go there and back in a single day.

How to get to the Grand Canyon: It's over a four-hour drive to the canyon, so if you can really only spend a day, you'll need an early start.

2. Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock's dramatic vistas are revered by Las Vegas locals and adored by visitors from around the world. Formed by extreme tectonic forces, it's thought the canyon, whose 3000ft red rock escarpment rises sharply from the valley floor, was formed around 65 million years ago.

A 13-mile, one-way scenic loop drive offers mesmerizing views of the canyon's most striking features. Hiking trails and rock-climbing routes radiate from roadside parking areas.

How to get to Red Rock Canyon:  The canyon is about 13 miles from the central Strip, which is less than a 20-minute drive. It's just three miles from Summerlin .

3. Valley of Fire State Park

Dedicated in 1935, Valley of Fire State Park was Nevada's first designated state park. Its psychedelic landscape has been carved by wind and water over thousands of years. Make the visitor center  your first port of call to find out how best to tackle this masterpiece of southwest desert scenery containing 40,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, petrified trees and ancient Native American petroglyphs (at Atlatl Rock).

Must-see spots within the valley include White Domes, Rainbow Vista, Fire Canyon and Silica Dome: each is as magnificent as it sounds. For more information on the unique geological features of the park, the visitor center also sells books and maps and takes reservations for guided hikes and ranger-led stargazing expeditions. If you're there for more than a day, you can try your luck for one of the 72 extremely popular, first-come, first-served primitive campsites. Don't undertake any hike without plenty of water.

How to get to Valley of Fire State Park:  It's about 50 miles from Downtown Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire State Park visitor center. Drive time is under one hour.

4. Lake Mead

Lake Mead National Recreation Area  is a popular boating, swimming and weekend-camping destination for local residents; and for tourists, is often tied together with a visit to nearby Hoover Dam. Within this protected area of the almost unbearably-dry Mojave Desert are Lake Mead, which extends 110 miles toward the Grand Canyon, 67-mile-long Lake Mohave, which runs along the Arizona–Nevada border, and miles of spectacular desert around the lakes.

While most visitors come to Lake Mead for the water, there is a handful of hiking trails, too, most of which are short. At Grapevine Canyon near Lake Mohave, for instance, a quarter-mile jaunt takes you to a petroglyph panel, but if you want you can boulder-hop further up the gorge, which cups a ribbon-like stream trickling down from a spring. 

Longer routes include a 3.7-mile trail along a historic railway line with five tunnels that links the Lake Mead Visitor Center to the Hoover Dam. The most challenging hike in the park follows a three-mile trail down 800ft to a set of hot springs in a slot off Black Canyon (this one's not recommended in summer).

How to get to Lake Mead:  The most visited northern section of Lake Mead is less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas.

5. Hoover Dam

Day-trippers often visit Hoover Dam alongside a trip to Lake Mead, which was created during the construction of the dam. At the height of the Depression, thousands of men and their families migrated here and worked in excruciating conditions, dangling hundreds of feet above Black Canyon in 120°F (about 50°C) heat to build this massive 726ft-high dam, completed ahead of schedule and under budget in 1936. Ninety-six workers lost their lives building the iconic art-deco styled structure, which redefines the stark landscape. Tours of the dam structure begin at the Hoover Dam Parking Garage & Visitor Center.

How to get to Hoover Dam: It's about a 50 minute drive from central Las Vegas.

6. Spring Mountains 

To the west of Las Vegas, the limestone cliffs and alpine-forested peaks of the lofty Spring Mountains rise unmistakably above the Mojave Desert. The modern, state-of-the-art interpretive center featuring educational dioramas, exhibits and artworks should be your first port of call for explorations into the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area section of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest . Rangers are on hand to steer you toward your ideal forest experience.

How to get to Spring Mountains: The drive from Vegas takes around one hour and 20 minutes.

7. Death Valley

The very name evokes all that is harsh, hot and hellish – a punishing, barren and lifeless place of Old Testament severity. Yet closer inspection reveals that in  Death Valley  nature is putting on a truly spectacular show: singing sand dunes, water-sculpted canyons, boulders moving across the desert floor, extinct volcanic craters, palm-shaded oases, stark mountains rising to 11,000ft and plenty of endemic wildlife. Start at Dante's View , where on very clear days, you can simultaneously see the highest (Mt Whitney) and lowest (Badwater) points in the contiguous USA.

How to get to Death Valley:  It's a little over a two-hour drive to get to Death Valley from Las Vegas. 

8. Zion National Park

Get ready for an overdose of awesome. The soaring red-and-white cliffs of Zion Canyon , one of southern Utah 's most dramatic natural wonders, rise high over the Virgin River. Hiking downriver through the Narrows or peering beyond Angels Landing after a 1500ft ascent is indeed amazing. But, for all its awe-inspiring majesty, the park also holds more delicate beauties: weeping rocks, tiny grottoes, hanging gardens and meadows of mesa-top wildflowers. 

How to get to Zion National Park: It's around a two-and-a-half hour drive from Vegas. If you arrive via the south entrance, you should expect traffic jams of 30 minutes or more just to pass the kiosk – arrive well before 8am to avoid the worst of the traffic and increase your odds of getting a coveted parking spot.

You might also like: Leaving Las Vegas: ghost towns and alien encounters in rural Nevada Adrenaline Vegas: an experience of Sin City extremes The Grand Circle is the ultimate US Southwest road trip

This article was first published December 2020 and updated October 2021

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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. 

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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6 of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas

A popular Las Vegas marketing slogan has successfully become a part of Sin City's identifying lexicon and culture: "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas."

The image the phrase conjures up is part illusion and part reality. But if what was going to happen in Vegas has already happened, what can you do now? Or, as Vegas' new marketing video implies, what if you need to find something new?

Fortunately, there's so much more to Vegas than just casinos , expensive concerts and fancy meals. For travelers who've already seen the main attractions, or locals who are ready to spread their wings, here are six of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

For the latest travel news, deals and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

Mount Charleston

Driving time from Las Vegas: One hour

For a dramatic and totally unexpected escape from the bright city lights, get in your rental car and head up to Mount Charleston. It's visible from some Las Vegas hotels and is part of the Spring Mountains, behind which the sun sets each day. It doesn't look overly inviting or welcoming from Las Vegas Boulevard because the eastern front of the range appears mostly barren and dry. But that distant and somewhat hostile impression plays a big part in the surprise that awaits the first-time visitor.

What to do: Mount Charleston is a relaxed, outdoor playground perfect for a variety of outdoor experiences such as hiking, camping, skiing, horseback riding or even just a scenic drive. It's a clear contrast between Nevada's two worlds: man-made and natural. The man-made sits on the valley floor, the natural tops out at 11,900 feet. One has imported palm trees, the other has tall Ponderosa pines and aspens that glow gold in the fall.

If you find Las Vegas overwhelming, you'll love the fresh, crisp air here. The towering glass-and-steel hotels are replaced by cabins made of rough-hewn logs and in an instant, your blood pressure drops. You're only 50 miles from Vegas, but it feels like a thousand.

During the drive to Mount Charleston, be sure to stop at the Desert View Overlook. There you'll find a short and well-maintained path that leads to an expansive and panoramic vista of the Mojave Desert below. A series of informative panels provide information about what you're viewing and its history.

Part of what you'll see includes the Nevada Test Site, the scene of almost 1,000 nuclear detonations from the 1950s to the 1990s. About 100 of these were atmospheric tests that resulted in mushroom clouds that could be seen from Las Vegas.

Farther up the road, at the end of Lee Canyon, is the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort.

Yes, there's a real outdoor ski area within an easy drive from Las Vegas. Sure, it's small, but there's enough terrain and snow to provide for a great winter getaway. The area historically receives about 200 inches of snow each season, with temperatures about 30 to 40 degrees lower than those in the valley. At other times of the year, it's a still a beautiful backdrop for a picnic.

A few years ago, we skied at the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort, and I wouldn't hesitate to include it into another Vegas winter stay.

Where to eat: Be sure to fit the Mount Charleston Lodge and Restaurant into your day trip; it's a quintessential mountain experience.

The very popular restaurant has a rustic A-frame design with full windows on three sides that allow guests to enjoy the view while perusing the large menu. An expansive porch wraps around the exterior to allow for outdoor dining, and a central fireplace adds to the coziness. You will also likely find authentic Native American jewelry and goods crafted by local artisans for sale.

Where to stay: The Mount Charleston log cabins start at around $125 per night. Of course, since Mount Charleson is only an hour from Las Vegas, you could also head back to Las Vegas in time for your dinner reservation on the Strip.

Valley of Fire State Park

A second easily reachable destination outside Las Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park . It's about an hour away from the city via I-15 N to Exit 75. The Valley of Fire is named for the color of the 150-million-year-old Aztec Red sandstone that comprises a lot of the park. We've also been there with the temperatures approaching 120 degrees, so maybe the heat also has something to do with the name.

What to do: A $10-per-car entrance fee is required and a stop at the visitor center is suggested. There you'll find a comprehensive study of the park and learn about how it was created. Also, there are restrooms and a small store selling snacks and souvenirs . Make sure you leave the visitor center with a map, a plan and water. Lots of water. It's very dry and has a very high ultraviolet and heat index.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Las Vegas

Valley of Fire State Park can be thoroughly enjoyed from the car using the excellent Scenic Loop Road that curves its way through the rock formations. But you'll be best served by at least an occasional stop at the many parking areas that provide access to some of the most distinctive features.

For instance, there's the Petroglyph Canyon that leads to Mouse's Tank. Here, rock etchings created by inhabitants from 2,500 years ago are visible on the sides of this short canyon. The canyon floor is covered with a loose, fine, deep sand that will easily make its way into your shoes and boots.

Another easy stop is Rainbow Vista, a colorful, panoramic landscape that seems to change hue with the movement of the sun. One of our favorites is the one-mile, round-trip hike to the Fire Wave. A relatively flat and easy trek leads you to undulating sandstone formations enhanced by swirling ribbons of contrasting color.

It is a small but very dramatic area you'll be glad to see — especially if you need a break from all the neon in Las Vegas. Just remember, there's little to no shade on this walk, and the heat can certainly be a risk.

White Domes is a crowd favorite. The mile-and-a-half-long trail leads you down past remnants of an old movie set and through a short but impressive slot canyon before looping back toward the parking area. The landscape is peppered with towering rock formations that look especially resplendent against the darker colors of the nearby desert rocks.

Related: The best national and state parks to visit with kids in the Southwest

Don't miss the petroglyph panel known as Atlatl Rock. You climb about four stories of metal stairs to get a close-up look of the carvings that are highlighted by images of the Atlatl — an ancient hunting weapon.

The Valley of Fire offers history and hills ablaze. There are petroglyphs and petrified logs; arches and ancient art; balanced rocks and bighorn sheep. Among the waves of red rock and snaking roads, you'll find the Valley of Fire is a destination on its own, but also a nice road trip from Las Vegas.

Where to stay: As with Mount Charleston, you could easily make a day trip from Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire State Park, but there are options if you want to spend the night. There is camping available within the state park. You can also choose among some budget hotels, such as the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead, about 12 miles away. But, if you want some luxury at the end of your day of hiking, you'll probably want to head back to Vegas.

Related: Review of the Bellagio Las Vegas

Death Valley

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

What to do: The things to do in Death Valley are to absorb the unusual, value the uniqueness, respect the environment and simply survive. Death Valley is different, beautiful in its own way and extreme.

One of the high points, if the lowest elevation in the U.S. can ever be defined using the word high, is Badwater Basiin, 282 feet below with sea-level starkness. Heatwaves dance and mirages come to life here during the heat of the day. The distance itself becomes an optical illusion.

Artists Palette on Artists Drive is also worth investigating as the rolling hills are splotched with multi-colored hues much like an artist's palette. The colors are usually best defined in the late afternoon light.

The road is one-way, well paved and narrow. And fun. It is a miniature roller coaster ride that you may want to take twice. It is at its best when you have the road to yourself.

Other popular and automobile-accessible locations for Vegas day-trippers are Zabriskie Point and Dante's Peak. Dante's sits about one mile above the valley floor and offers an expansive overlook of Badwater Basin and its surroundings. Zabriskie is likely the park's most popular viewing spot and offers a nice vantage for sunrise and sunsets.

Golden Canyon is just off Badwater Road and allows visitors to get an intimate feel for Death Valley without going too far from your car's air conditioning.

If time allows, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells is a good visit. The sand hills rise and flow, poetically delineated by the rippled ridges of the sand that are forever at the mercy of a thermal wind. This is another good locale for the photographer in you.

Stops at the Harmony Borax Worksite, the Park Information Center and at the Death Valley National Park sign are certain to be on most visitors' agendas. If you spend the night in the park, the skies in Death Valley can get dynamically dark, providing a brilliant celestial show. During the day, Navy fighter jets race across those same skies.

Related: What to expect as national parks reopen

Death Valley is best enjoyed when the temperature is an ally and not an enemy. Think October through April. Also, like most of the great and grand outdoors, optimum viewing is when the sun is lower in the sky and not directly overhead. We have been to Death Valley when the temperatures were 115+. It is doable ... but the land's ancestral natives did not call the area Tomesha ("Ground Afire") without cause.

Where to stay: You can stay within Death Valley at Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel in one of 83 rooms that start around $150 per night. There are also campsites and RV hookups available -- along with a general store, the Toll Road Restaurant and Badwater Saloon.

Other options can be found at the Oasis at Death Valley, the Ranch at Death Valley and the Inn at Death Valley, set along Highway 190 next to the National Park Service Visitor Center. Here you'll find lush date palms, spring-fed pools and even golf.

Related: The US welcomes 3 new dark sky parks

Grand Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours to the closest point, the Grand Canyon West Rim

What to do: The Grand Canyon lives up to its name. It is quite ... grand. The more popular North and South Rims are also reachable by car from Vegas, but you'll need to budget several additional hours in the car each direction, with the South Rim being the closer of those two. The West Rim is closer still, though each offers its own unique possibilities.

Should you decide to make an overnight road trip to the South Rim, you might consider a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway that begins in Williams, Arizona, and takes you on a two-hour (each way) nostalgic journey to the canyon. Several trains run daily, and there are multiple price ranges available. This is a very popular experience and one we highly recommend. While in Williams, you can enjoy another homage to the past while you cruise down part of the famous Route 66.

But, the West Rim, which is run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe, is a reasonable driving distance from Las Vegas and this is where you'll find the Skywalk Glass Bridge that extends out over the edge of the canyon so you can look down 4,000 feet.

Where to stay: If you go to the West Rim, the Hualapai Ranch offers rustic cabins for rent. Along with your cabin stay, you also get access to an animatronic "Shootin' Gallery" and free magic and gunfight shows. Horseback rides are available at the ranch starting at $40.

Another nearby option is the Grand Canyon Western Ranch, about 10 miles away. At this ranch, you'll find pine cabins and glamping tents with prices that start around $200-$300 per night. In addition to the tents and cabins, you'll find horseback rides, wagon rides and a gun range.

Related: The best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

Antelope Canyon is one of the best places we've ever been. This is the longest of the road trips we've recommended from Las Vegas, but it's also our favorite. It's at least a full-day commitment from Las Vegas, 275 miles away in Page, Arizona . In fact, you'll probably want to at least spend the night in Page before making your way back to Vegas.

What to do: What you'll find at Antelope Canyon are two slot canyons that will deliver a physical and visual experience unlike anything else on Earth.

The upper and the lower canyons are located on land of the Navajo Nation and can only be toured with authorized guides. Reservations can be made online and do sell out. Both canyons deliver stunning plays of light on sandstone sculpted by rushing water from infrequent but powerful desert storms. The upper is on ground level, and the lower makes its way through a narrow and winding passageway about 50 feet below ground.

There's no pattern to these natural works of art, just a rhythm of wild and unscripted motion. The walls rise and fall like waves, curl and curve into themselves. There are dynamic photo opportunities throughout the canyons as the walls gather and distribute the light from above in a multi-hued light show.

The Antelope Canyons are a mecca for the greatest of artists and for the iPhone photographer alike, so be sure to bring something to capture the moment.

Individually purchased adult tour prices will range from about $50 for the Lower Canyon to $60 for the Upper Canyon. The fees for children are $10 less. Special tours are available at a higher fee that allows extra time in the canyons, emphasize photography or allow access during "peak" times. During normal times, multiple tour companies make day trips to Antelope Canyon with 6 a.m. departures. Basic transportation costs about $65 from Vegas if you aren't driving, and full tours start around $200.

Of course, if you have your own car, you're on your own schedule.

Where to stay : There are a number of budget-friendly properties in Page, about 10 miles from Antelope Canyon. If you want to use your hotel points or free-night certificates, you can pick from the Hyatt Place Page - Lake Powell (12,000 Hyatt points), Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell (36,000 - 50,000 Hilton points) or Days Inn, Comfort Inn and Best Western-type properties.

Related: Fun road trips in Arizona

Zion National Park

Driving time from Las Vegas: Three hours

What to do: Zion is like a natural cathedral. It is that inspiring. Just the definitions and spiritual applications of the word Zion should give you a real hint as to the grandeur there.

Zion surrounds you, engulfs you and embraces you. And, before COVID-19 hit, it gave a lot of hugs as it was attracting about four million visitors each year. Zion's main features, its most popular venues, are mostly accessed from a single road that parallels the Virgin River. Traffic in the park can be congested, so a huge fleet of shuttle buses are used to minimize traffic.

You can appreciate Zion from a distance and get a broad view of the wonders much like an image presented by a panoramic photo. But Zion is best experienced by zooming in on individual segments and becoming more of a participant than a spectator.

Hikes and explorations range from an easy, but rewarding, stroll on the Riverside Walk to an all-day strenuous trek through water to the see the famous Narrows. In between, there is the uncomplicated and straightforward trail to Weeping Rock, the moderately challenging path to the Emerald Pools and The Canyon Overlook and the formidable climb to the breathtaking Angel's Landing.

As with most popular destinations, the best time to visit is the off-season when attendance is down. But since most travelers don't always have that scheduling freedom, it is best to simply get out early in the day, ahead of the crowd.

As a personal aside, if time does not permit a true visit to Zion, the spectacular Highway 9 from Springdale to Mount Carmel Junction is worth the time, the effort and the National Park fee. The road bisects part of the park and offers scenery and sights that will have you looking for one of the many turnouts and overlooks to pull into for an even better view. The road has a series of long tunnels that cut through the core of the mountains and the drive through the tunnels and the vistas when you emerge are truly exhilarating. Utah State Highway 9, the Zion Park Scenic Byway, is a travel treasure. (Just watch out for deer crossings.)

Where to stay: Within Zion, your options are either camping in one of the three campgrounds or booking a stay at the Zion National Park Lodge, where rooms and cabins often start at $220+ per night and can book up well in advance. But there are points-friendly options in the area too.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park sits in the shadow of Zion, and is bookable for 40,000-60,000 Marriott points per night. (Or a free-night certificate available from the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card when the room prices at 50,000 points per night or less). The Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park prices around 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night and the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale is 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.

Related: Where to stay near national parks using hotel points

Bottom line

We love Las Vegas . We love it for what it is and what it will be post-coronavirus pandemic , but if you are looking for a road trip out of Las Vegas, there's plenty nearby that can broaden and enhance the experience. Safe travels!

18 Weekend Getaways From Las Vegas – Epic Trip Ideas

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: April 4, 2024

Las Vegas is an incredible city. It has so much to offer to keep you busy for several days (and nights) right on The Strip itself or even without setting foot in a casino .

But if you’re planning to do a bit of a longer stay, or if you’re a local looking for a getaway, there are so many great places to visit within a short distance from Vegas. In this post you’ll find 18 epic weekend getaways from Las Vegas .

Road trips from Vegas will give you beautiful views of the American landscape as you travel to your destination. It’s also possible to stop at a number of scenic places along the way there – or on your way back to Vegas.

Whether you’re up for a scenic road trip or a quick flight, weekend trips from Las Vegas should definitely be on your itinerary.

Sure, Vegas has fun stuff to do but we all need some vacation time every so often. Here are 18 ideas for your get-out-of-Vegas weekend fun.

In This Article:

National Parks Near Las Vegas

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure and spectacular scenery then you’ll want to consider these five extraordinary national parks near Las Vegas – all within 2 – 5 hour drive.

Death Valley, California

Death Valley National Park is definitely a must for your California bucket list. With the short drive from Las Vegas of just over two hours, you can make it a day trip from Vegas or stay the night to give yourself more time to experience the wonder of this special place.

Hiking in the area, like the trails to Darwin Falls, and Telescope Peak, or taking scenic drives like the Daylight Pass, have views you will not forget. Just remember that Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth during the summer months, so save this one for a winter weekend trip.

LEARN MORE: Best National Parks to Visit in Winter

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Nature is at its finest at Joshua Tree National Park and it’s only a three hour drive from Vegas. It’s no wonder why so many people visit this beautiful place each year.

With its stunning views of the landscape and vegetation only the desert climate can provide, you will not be disappointed when you experience all that Joshua Tree has to offer.

Driving to scenic lookouts and hiking the trails you’ll see the unique Joshua Trees along the landscape. Also be sure to check out the cholla cactus garden.

Explore landmarks and hikes on your own, like Barker Dam, Skull Rock, and Hidden Valley Nature Trail, or join one of the talks or hikes hosted by the park’s rangers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great weekend trip from Vegas for outdoor adventurers

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is an incredible natural wonder that you have to see to believe and it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas. Towering rock formations, deep caverns, and plant life make it a scene like one in an old western movie.

This beautiful place is a popular destination for millions of visitors a year, so plan ahead to avoid the crowds at popular landmarks like The Narrows. Note that starting April 1, 2022 Angels Landing requires a permit and reservation.

For less busy options check out areas like Taylor Creek Trail and some of the other easy hikes in Zion . A good thing about being so popular is that there are plenty of places to eat and a variety of accommodations in and around Zion.

Bryce Canyon Utah

Ready for one of the most amazing places to see in Utah? Bryce Canyon National Park is a place like no other with red rock hoodoos creating other-worldly views, absolutely stunning at sunset! All within a four hour drive from Las Vegas.

Hike among the magical spire formations on the hiking trails in Bryce Canyon including Queen’s Garden Trail, Navajo Loop, and Fairyland Loop.

TIP : You can visit Zion and Bryce in one road trip – just head south on US-89 after you leave Bryce, and you’ll get to Zion in about an hour. Plan on a 3 – 4 day road trip to see both Bryce and Zion.

LEARN MORE: 15 National Parks and Monuments in Utah

Take one of the most scenic road trips from Las Vegas to Bryce National Park in Utah

Grand Canyon, Arizona

A US bucket list must! We all have the Grand Canyon on our “things I have to see during my lifetime” list.

And Las Vegas is less than five hours away from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Yes, it’s true! So, if you’re headed to Vegas for more than just a couple of days, you should definitely consider making a getaway to experience the majesty of mother nature. You’ll be happy you did.

Park in the Grand Canyon Village then walk a portion of the Rim Trail for spectacular views of the Grand Canyon and visit historic buildings such as Kolb Studio, Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, and Hopi House.

Enjoy dining at one of the rustic lodges in the park after hiking a portion of Bright Angel Trail (to the first rest house is 1.5 miles) and back up to the rim. Marvel at the mesmerizing views.

Best Road Trips from Las Vegas

Part of the appeal of a getaway is experiencing the beauty of the landscape during the drive. There are several places not too far from Las Vegas where the destination is just as glorious as the road trip that gets you there.

The following places are drives that will take less than 5 hours (think 2.5 – 4.5 hours), but you’ll be happy you covered those miles.

Lake Havasu, Arizona

Need a getaway from your getaway? Definitely check out Lake Havasu . Packed with great places to eat, drink and lay your head at night, it’s only 2.5 hours from Las Vegas.

Water sports reign at the lake but the surrounding area has great trails for hiking and biking like SARA Park.

One thing you have to do while at Lake Havasu is to check out London Bridge. Yes, that London Bridge! It was brought over from England and reassembled across Lake Havasu. Cool, right?

Flagstaff, Arizona

Escape to Flagstaff for a weekend of hiking in the pine forests and take in the coffee culture vibe with an abundance of unique local cafes – in less than 4 hours from Vegas.

With an elevation of around 7,000 feet this Northern Arizona college town experiences four distinct seasons which is fairly unique in Arizona.

Expect snow in winter (and skiing), comfortable summers, and most pleasant spring and fall weather. With a long list of things to do in Flagstaff you’ll want to try it out in every season.

For day trip options venture out on historic Route 66 to Winslow Arizona (sound familiar?…standing on the corner in Winslow Arizona) and the spectacular Petrified Forest National Park . Or the Grand Canyon!

Learn about all the best day trips from Flagstaff and you’ll want to plan a one week vacation to this amazing Arizona town.

LEARN MORE: Indian Ruins Near Flagstaff

Get your kicks on Route 66 in Winslow Arizona – a short drive from Flagstaff and a fun stop on the way to Petrified Forest

Mojave National Preserve, California

The Mojave National Preserve is a must-do experience. Hike the Rings Loop Trail to climb between towering rock formations or simply put your feet in the sand at Kelso Dunes.

The Mojave Preserve is something you’ll remember for a lifetime. As it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas, there’s no better reason to visit. Taking a longer road trip to California? Make a stop at Mojave on your way – you’ll be glad you did.

Sedona, Arizona

If you’re looking to get re-centered, head to Sedona (about 4.5 hours drive from Las Vegas). Nestled in the beautiful desert oasis is a magnificent city that is teeming with different ways for you to relax, unwind, and find your center.

Resorts and spas throughout the area are ready to help with massages, yoga, pools, and luxurious spaces to spend the night. The natural landscape like the Sedona Vortexes provide opportunities for spiritual revival that’s soothing for your soul and easy on your wallet.

Explore the best free things to do in Sedona now.

LEARN MORE: Hiking Oak Creek Trail Sedona

Cool off while hiking the Oak Creek Canyon – one of the best hikes near Sedona Arizona

Cedar City Utah

Budget travelers will appreciate this location compared to staying in other super popular places in Utah, like Bryce and Zion. Cedar City is often WAY cheaper than staying in or near Zion and Bryce and it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas.

Enjoy easy and scenic drives from Cedar City to both Bryce and Zion. Bonus, you are less than 30 minutes away from Kolob Canyons in Zion (way less crowded!) and there are so many amazing things to do near Cedar City . Hiking and biking trails in town make it a great family vacation spot.

If you can swing it make this a 7-day road trip from Vegas to take in all the highlights like Bryce, Zion, Cedar Breaks , and Kanarraville Falls (slot canyon) in an epic Vegas getaway.

Prescott Arizona

Nestled in the ponderosa pine forests of central Arizona you will find the delightful city of Prescott – about 4 hours from Las Vegas.

While cities like Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson get a lot more attention Prescott will wow you with it’s history and some pretty amazing lakes plus hiking trails around town and in the Prescott National Forest.

Visit history museums and ancient ruins nearby or go kayaking or paddle boarding at one the many lakes around Prescott . Hike around Watson Lake and then enjoy a night on the town at Whiskey Row in historical downtown Prescott.

Explore the best things to do in Prescott now.

Watson Lake is a must-see in Prescott – for awesome hiking, fishing, kayaking, or boating

Page, Arizona

Page Arizona is a fabulous destination if you’re looking for anything from water sports to nature hikes. At Lake Powell and the surrounding Glen Canyon National Recreation area, you can cool off in the water by kayaking, waterskiing, or simply taking a dip.

You definitely must see the natural wonders of both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon to experience what mother nature has created. Located about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas, Page has plenty of places to stay so why not make a long weekend trip out of it?

On your two-day trip to Page AZ be sure to take a tour of Antelope Canyon – a top Arizona bucket list destination

Drive or Fly Weekend Getaways from Vegas

The Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas makes weekend getaways super easy and convenient. Nearby major cities are just a hop, skip and jump away with frequent flights taking off each day. With airlines competing for customers with super low fares, it’s a no brainer to book a flight and be off.

Los Angeles, California

LA needs no introduction. This home of Hollywood is known across the globe for its wonder and magic.

So, why not hop on over to LA for the weekend? Direct flights are frequent and pretty cheap to get there and back. The biggest hassle might be waiting to board but that’s about it.

Just grab your carry-on and you’re ready to take off.

Driving will get you there in just about four hours, which is not that bad considering when you’re there you’ll have your wheels to get around town.

LEARN MORE: LA to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip

Phoenix, Arizona

Looking for a change of pace for a day or two? Consider a weekend getaway to Phoenix .

The desert climate makes the city a perfect place to visit any time of year. There’s a ton to do in Phoenix in terms of outdoor activities like hiking, hot air ballooning, and playing a few holes at world renowned golf courses.

You won’t be disappointed by the selection of restaurants, bars or museums either. Phoenix has just about anything you’d desire for a perfect weekend away.

A quick flight will get you there in an hour or by car it’s less than five hours away.

If you have more time you can make it a one week driving vacation to Phoenix and check out all the best road trip stops on your way back from Phoenix to Vegas.

LEARN MORE: Hike the Wave Cave Superstition Mountains Arizona

Santa Barbara California

Fly or drive (5 hours 45 minutes from Vegas) to one of the prettiest coastal towns in California – featuring red-tiled rooftops and white stucco buildings – Santa Barbara is gorgeous!

From downtown you can walk the Shoreline Park and to Ledbetter Beach, or bicycle to the Butterfly Beach – perfect for sunset viewing.

Take a tour of Mission Santa Barbara or walk the gardens in Santa Barbara then enjoy an evening of shopping and dining on State Street.

Go explore the tide pools at Hendry’s Beach and walk for miles listening to the soothing ocean waves and feeling the sand between your toes. You’ll love Santa Barbara!

Explore all the best things to do in Santa Barbara now.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara: La Playa Inn Santa Barbara is a short walk to the beach and Stearns Wharf, read reviews and see photos now .

Beautiful Santa Barbara is a superb vacation spot on the California coast

San Diego, California

Have a craving for some Mexi-Cali seafood? Why not head over to San Diego for the weekend?!

Flights from Las Vegas to San Diego make it super easy to get away for the weekend – with planes taking off several times a day, prices that are typically pretty low, and an inflight time that is only about an hour, it’d be silly not to go!

The drive isn’t a big deal either – it’s only five hours. No matter what way you choose to get to San Diego from Las Vegas, you’ll soon be enjoying the Pacific breeze with your toes in the sand. Priceless!

LEARN MORE: 12 Epic Day Trips from San Diego

Palm Springs California

How about a relaxing weekend vibe in the desert oasis of Palm Springs? Hop a short flight or hit the road and be there in about 4.5 hours.

Go hiking in the palm lined canyons then relax in the spa, peruse the thrift shops, or check out the Palm Springs Art Museum. Enjoy the Palm Springs nightlife and dance the night away or have a romantic dinner at Le Vallauris Restaurant.

Want to explore more? Take an awesome day trip from Palm Springs to the surreal Salton Sea, Joshua Tree National Park , or soar higher on the tramway to Mt San Jacinto State Park .

Plan your trip now (including where to stay and where to eat) with our guide to Palm Springs . Also, check out our list of best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs .

Fly or drive to Palm Springs California for a long weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation

Carpinteria California

A more affordable option than Santa Barbara is the laid back California beach town of Carpinteria. It’s only 10 miles from Santa Barbara on scenic Highway One so you can easily make an afternoon trip to check it out too.

In Carpinteria you’ll find a wonderful sandy beach to practice your surfing skills or take a surfing lesson, then there’s the amazing hiking trail at Carpinteria Bluffs down to the tide pools.

Carpinteria is the place to relax and slow down to enjoy the best of coastal living. Hop a flight to Santa Barbara or drive 5.5 hours from Vegas to Carpinteria.

Explore all the best things to do in Carpinteria and plan to visit at least a couple of the beautiful beaches around Carpinteria .

I hope this list of Las Vegas weekend getaway ideas offers you some inspiration for your next trip.

Any of these 18 destinations make an excellent choice for a Las Vegas weekend mini-vacation. Whether you’re looking for spectacular scenery and hiking trails in some of the best national parks in the US, beautiful beach towns, a soothing desert oasis, or stunning red rock landscapes – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

There’s much to explore near Las Vegas. Happy travels!

Looking For More Vacation Inspiration?

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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 .

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5 Best Tours to Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas

The Best Valley of Fire Tour from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas

The Best One-Day Tour from Las Vegas to Hollywood

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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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

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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.

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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15 Incredible Weekend Trips from Las Vegas

• Arizona / California / In the City / Joshua Tree / Las Vegas / Los Angeles / Nevada / North America / Outdoors / USA / Utah

Looking for a weekend getaway from Las Vegas? Here are 15 great spots to go.

There are 52 weekends out of the year. How are you going to spend them?

Whenever we go tell people our list of cities we’ve lived in, Las Vegas always catches people’s attention. Most people don’t realize Vegas is a great home base to get to the Utah parks and an easy drive to many destinations in California.

If you’re tired of hanging out at the Strip, within a few hours, you can be at some of the most amazing landscapes the US has to offer.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 8, 2024

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More weekend trip ideas under 7 hours.

• Map of Las Vegas Weekend Trips

Planning Checklist

More resources, 1. joshua tree national park, california →.

6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252,  map

Distance:  187 mi / 3 hrs 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Arch Rock , Cholla Cactus Garden, Keys View What to Eat:  Crossroads ,  JT Country Kitchen ,  Joshua Tree Coffee Co Where to Stay:  Find Joshua Tree Hotel Deals

Joshua Tree National Park is one of our favorite places to visit, and probably the spot we visit the most. The sunsets are unforgettable and if you rock climb, it’s a giant playground.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a unique way to explore some of these spots, you can rent a campervan from  Travellers Autobarn . We’ve seen them out on the road and can’t wait to try one for ourselves.

See More: 11 Amazing Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park CA

2. Big Bear, California →

40971 North Shore Drive/Hwy 38, Fawnskin, CA 92333,  map

Distance:  213 mi / 3 hrs 27 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Big Bear Discovery Center, Boulder Bay Park, Big Bear Alpine Zoo What to Eat:  Teddy Bear Restaurant , Grizzly Manor Cafe , Tropicali Where to Stay:  Find Hotels and Rentals in Big Bear

Big Bear Lake offers something for the whole family. You can visit in the winter to hit the slopes or in the summer for water activities and hiking. We only had a chance to spend two days in the area during our last visit at the turn of the season, but can’t wait to hike and snowboard.

See More: 7 Best Things to Do in Big Bear California

3. Havasupai Trailhead, Supai, Arizona →

Supai, AZ 86435,  map

Distance:  225 mi / 3 hrs 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:    Little Navajo Falls ,  Havasu Falls ,  Mooney Falls ,  Beaver Falls What to Eat:  Pack Food In Where to Stay:  Camping or Lodges

If you’re lucky enough to snag permits to visit Havasupai Falls, you absolutely should do it. The brilliant turquoise falls backdropped by the rich, red rocks is worth the trek. Check out our posts on  How to get Havasupai Falls Reservations/Permits ,  Packing Guide , and  Photo Diaries of Day 1  and  Day 2 of our hike .

See More: How to Get Havasupai Falls Reservations / Permits

4. Flagstaff, Arizona

1 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001,  map

Distance:  254 mi / 3 hrs 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Walnut Canyon National Monument, Wupatki National Monument, Lava River Cave What to Eat:  Fat Olives , Satchmo’s , Shift Kitchen & Bar Where to Stay:   Hotels in Flagstaff

If you love the outdoors but want the comforts of a city, Flagstaff is a great place to head for the weekend. There is plenty to keep you active, but also great restaurants and culture in town.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah →

UT-63, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764,  map

Distance:  260 mi / 3 h 57 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Navajo Loop Trail What to Eat:  Idk BBQ , Stone Hearth Grille , Route 12 Grill Where to Stay:  Find Hotels near Bryce Canyon

Bryce has some of the most beautiful hoodoos you’ll ever find. It’s a relatively small park that you can drive through and see all the pullouts, but you can also spend a weekend there to hike and explore deeper into the park.

See More: 9 Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

6. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah

37.4047361,-111.6863165,  map

Distance:  214 mi / 3 h 20 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:   Toadstool Hoodoos , Devil’s Garden, Zebra Slot Canyon, Peekaboo Gulch & Golden Cathedral What to Eat:  Burr Trail Grill , BirdHouse Where to Stay:  Find Nearby Hotel Deals

You can easily drive by or through Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument without even realizing it. It’s roughly the size of Delaware close to  Kanab . We drove through as much of it as we could on a weekend trip and did the hike to Zebra Slot Canyon and  Toadstool Hoodoos .

See More: How to Hike to Toadstool Hoodoos Utah

7. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona →

36.7331543,-112.0484054,  map

Distance:  187 mi / 3 h 37 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Coyote Buttes North (the Wave) , White Pocket, Coyote Buttes South, Paria Canyon What to Eat:  Big John’s Texas BBQ ,  El Tapatio , Sunset 89 Where to Stay:  Search for Hotel Deals

The most well-known portion of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is  the Wave , but it’s also one of the  hardest to permits to get in the world . That shouldn’t stop you from exploring other parts of the area full of unique rock formations, beautiful canyons, and towering cliffs. Our favorite alternative to the Wave is  White Pocket .

See More: How to Get the Wave Permit in Arizona

8. Los Angeles, California →

453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013,  map

Distance:  270 mi / 3 hrs 55 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach, Silver Lake What to Eat:  49 Fave Places to Eat in LA Where to Stay:  Best Hotels in LA

If you’re visiting Los Angeles for the weekend, we recommend focusing on an area of LA or a category of what you love to do or you can easily get overwhelmed by the endless options of things to eat, see, and do. You can spend all week eating delicious food, seeing all the museums, visiting the beaches, or even snapping photos at all the popular Instagram spots . Just know you’ll probably be back.

See More: 101 Things To Do in LA

9. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona →

36.0911048,-113.4035545,  map

Distance:  253 mi / 4 h 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Mather Point, Bright Angel Point, Grandview Point What to Eat:  El Tavor Lodge Dining Room ,  Big E Streakhouse & Saloon , We Cook Pizza & Pasta Where to Stay:  Look for Hotels in Grand Canyon

You have to visit the Grand Canyon at least once in your life. It really lives up to its name and is absolutely massive. If you don’t have a weekend, you can always  visit the Grand Canyon via a helicopter tour .

Don’t want to worry about the drive? Check out Max Tour and visit multiple spots. We went on the  2 Day Grand Canyon Antelope Canyon Tour  and it was a really great experience. They pick you up on the strip and in two days, they pack in a lot. We saw the Grand Canyon at sunrise, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Route 66, and Hoover Dam. 

See More: 17 Breathtaking Things to Do at the Grand Canyon National Park

10. Page, Arizona

5 S Lake Powell Blvd Unit 3, Page, AZ 86040,  map

Distance:  272 mi / 4 h 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:   Antelope Canyon , Horseshoe Bend,  The Wave What to Eat:  BirdHouse , Sunset 89 , El Tapatio Where to Stay:   Book a Hotel in Page

Page, Arizona is a small town that doesn’t seem like much if you’re driving through it, but it makes the perfect home base to explore some of the SouthWest’s best outdoor scenery. Some famous spots nearby include Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and of course, the Wave.

Same as above,  Max Tour  lets you see Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and so much more. It was nice not having to worry about any of the details and just showing up to enjoy each viewpoint.

See More: Your Complete Antelope Canyon Guide

11. Sedona, Arizona

331 Forest Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336,  map

Distance:  275 mi / 4 h 23 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Slide Rock State Park What to Eat:  The Hudson , Hideaway House , Elote Cafe Where to Stay:  Hotel Deals in Sedona

Sedona is a great spot for a weekend trip. There are so many great hikes where you surround yourself with beautiful rock formations, and at the end of the day, you can treat yourself to a spa and a great meal. We definitely plan on visiting this year.

12. Great Basin National Park, Nevada →

National Park, 100 Great Basin, Baker, NV 89311,  map

Distance:  296 mi / 4 h 29 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Lehman Caves , Bristlecone Pines, Wheeler Peak What to Eat:  Great Basin Cafe , The Baker’s Bean Where to Stay:  Book a Hotel in Baker

Great Basin National Park is a great place to stargaze, explore caves, and hang out with some of the oldest trees in the world. You can read more about it on our  Ultimate Guide to Great Basin National Park .

See More: Ultimate Guide to Great Basin National Park

13. Mammoth Lakes, California

2510 Main St, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546,  map

Distance: 308 mi / 5 h 8 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Devils Postpile Nationa Monument, Horseshoe Lake, Rainbow Falls What to Eat:  Noodle-Ly , The Warming Hut , Mammoth Rock Brasserie Where to Stay:  Book a Hotel in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is most popular during the winter when skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes, but if you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the summer and explore the mountains via hiking and biking trails.

14. San DIego, California →

Distance:  332 mi / 4 hrs 55 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  San Diego Zoo ,  North Park ,  Balboa Park What to Eat:  Carnitas Snack Shack ,  Tacos El Gordo ,  Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream Where to Stay:  Best Hotels in San Diego

We spent a whole year in San Diego and it’s still one of our favorite cities in the US. It has such a laid-back vibe, great restaurants, and plenty to explore. We headed to the beaches on some days, and up into the mountains on others. You can also spend a full day exploring museums and experience the diverse culture.

See More: 101 Things to Do in San Diego

15. Salt Lake City, Utah

90 S W Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101,  map

Distance:  421 mi / 5 h 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Park City, Big Cottonwood Canyon, The Tabernacle What to Eat:  Purgatory , Red Iguana , Salt & Olive Where to Stay:  Hotels in SLC

Whether you want to spend your weekend outdoors, marvel at the amazing architecture, or just rest and relax, Salt Lake City has a wide variety of options to keep you busy and happy over a weekend trip.

• Parashant National Monument, AZ (135 mi / 4 h 31 min /  map )
• Dixie National Forest, UT (182 mi / 2 h 40 min /  map )
• Kanab, UT  (198.7 mi NE / 3 hr 5 min /  map )
• Duck Creek Village, UT (200 mi / 3 h 5 min /  map )
• Cedar Breaks National Monument, UT (205 mi / 3 h 5 min /  map )
• Storax Sedan Crater (107 mi / 1 h 50 min /  map )
• Yucca Valley, CA (206 mi / 3 h 53 min /  map )
• Palm Springs, CA  (232 mi / 4 h 3 min /  map )
• Lake Powell, UT  (270 mi / 4 h 13 min /  map )
• Rainbow Bridge National Monument, UT (268 mi / 4 h 12 min /  map )
• Fishlake National Forest, UT (278 mi / 4 h 25 min /  map )
• Salton Sea, CA (296 mi / 4 h 44 min /  map )
• Phoenix, AZ  (298 mi / 5 h 13 min /  map )
• Salvation Mountain  (314 mi / 5 h 4 min /  map )
• Santa Barbara, CA (359 mi / 5 h 34 min /  map )
• Pilot Peak, NV (388 mi / 6 h 24 min /  map )
• Park City (427 mi / 6 h 10 min /  map )
• Yosemite National Park  (456 mi / 6 h 52 min /  map )
• Moab (Arches & Canyonlands) (457 mi / 6 h 34 min /  map )
• Sequoia National Park  (380 mi / 6 h 3 min /  map )
• Monument Valley, UT (395 mi / 6 h 13 min /  map )
• Lake Tahoe (451 mi / 7 h 17 min /  map ) – over 7 hours but worth a weekend trip

Map of Weekend Trips from Las Vegas

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Las Vegas hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Las Vegas travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with Go City .
• Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas
• 101 Hikes in the Southwest
• Southwest Road Trip Guide
• Lonely Planet Southwest USA’s Best Trips
• Lonely Planet Southwest USA

What is the best weekend getaway you’ve been on? Which of these have you visited?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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• Last Updated On
• June 1, 2023

25 Best Weekend Getaways From Las Vegas — Quick Trips!

Get a break from your daily life as you go on one of the best weekend getaways from Las Vegas with your family, friends, or partner.

You can find many fun-filled opportunities around the area, like breathtaking natural attractions, historical sites, vibrant neighboring cities, and countless others.

Create memories to last a lifetime as you enjoy an adventure in the great outdoors, explore highly acclaimed tourist hotspots, check into charming accommodations, and so on.

I understand how time-consuming it can get to plan the perfect trip.

So, let me help you make your dream vacation a reality by looking through this list I prepared just for you.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park, CA (760) 367-5500

Joshua Tree National Park, spanning almost 800,000 acres, is a well-known American national park that takes its name after the one-of-a-kind Joshua Trees native to the Mojave Desert.

You can find it in the San Bernardino and Riverside counties of California, less than a four-hour drive from Phoenix.

It is the perfect destination for a cool overnight trip as you go camping and enjoy a fabulous time stargazing.

It also offers the ideal backdrop for other activities, like hiking through easy or challenging trails, rock climbing, birdwatching, observing passing wildlife, nature photography, and lots more.

2. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 (800) 424-4232

Big Bear Lake, incorporated in 1980, is a charming waterfront city in the San Bernardino County of California.

Prepare for your long weekend trips from Las Vegas as you enjoy a plethora of fun-filled indoor and outdoor activities at Big Bear Lake.

Bond with your kids at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, where you can view at least 160 animals, including wolves, grizzly bears, eagles, cougars, arctic foxes, snow leopards, owls, and more.

Have a fun time outdoors at Boulder Bay Park as you have a lovely picnic, hike through scenic trails, and enjoy water activities like kayaking or canoeing.

Enjoy year-round fun at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, offering activities for all seasons, such as go-karting, alpine sliding, coasters, miniature golfing, snow tubing, and countless others.

Get a better idea of your numerous outstanding options, spectacular attractions, terrific dining choices, and the like at the Big Bear Visitors Center.

3. Flagstaff

Flagstaff, settled in 1876, is a land-locked city and seat of Coconino County, in north Arizona, in the southwestern region of the US.

Are you on a budget and looking for inexpensive weekend getaways near Las Vegas to explore with your companions?

Then, I recommend driving less than four hours to this gorgeous city.

Explore attractions like the Wupatki National Monument, a jaw-dropping national reserve popular for its several Native American archaeological sites.

Discover the grandeur of our universe by heading to the Lowell Observatory, offering science demos, constellation tours, superb stargazing opportunities, daily science talks, and more.

Have a more adventurous time with your group at Flagstaff Extreme, boasting zip lines, ropes courses, and so on.

Visit a historical site by touring the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, a duplex home constructed in the 1970s by two brothers.

Take time to stroll down Downtown Flagstaff to view century-old buildings, dine at a local eatery, shop at a boutique store, and take pictures backed by stunning architectural structures.

Recommended Hotel: Little America Hotel Flagstaff

4. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

745 US-89 Kanab, UT 84741 (435) 644-1200

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, encompassing over 1.8 million acres, is a national monument in the southern region of Utah, welcoming over 800,000 visitors annually.

It has a jaw-dropping landscape with colorful sandstone cliffs, prehistoric sites, mesmerizing rock formations, rugged terrain, and more.

It protects three sites: the Grand Staircase, the Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Canyons of the Escalante.

It also features abandoned Old West movie sets, several visitor centers, and numerous others.

You can try various activities such as camping, scenic drives, hunting, observing passing wildlife, hiking, honing your nature photography skills, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Canyon Country Lodge

5. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Marble Canyon, AZ 86036 (435) 688-3200

The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, established in 2000, is an over 290,000-acre national monument in the northern region of Coconino County, Arizona.

There are many fantastic places to explore on your Las Vegas area weekend getaways, like this outdoor attraction, roughly four hours away.

It is a fantastic place to enjoy activities like wilderness backpacking, camping, wildlife viewing, hiking, and so much more.

It has a magnificent desert landscape with stunning cliffs, eye-catching plateaus, colossal dunes, and diverse animal species, including mountain lions, bighorn sheep, eagles, and more.

You can also discover Native American pueblos, featuring ruins, native villages, burial areas, granaries, houses, and some of the country’s oldest petroglyphs or rock art.

Recommended Hotel: Shash Dine’ EcoRetreat

Related: Hotels in Vegas

6. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park (760) 786-3200

Death Valley National Park, spanning over 3.3 million acres, is an American national park in Nevada and California.

If you’re searching for outdoor attractions to enjoy an adventurous getaway, Las Vegas has many terrific options nearby, like this brilliant national park.

Its mesmerizing landscape boasts striking deserts, badlands, mountains, valleys, canyons, colossal dunes, salt mounds, and more.

Escape your daily life by enjoying activities like four-wheel driving, mountain biking, cross-country hiking, camping, stargazing, and numerous others.

It also has several facilities to make your stay more convenient, like ranger stations, visitor centers, nine designated campgrounds, a park bookstore, and so on.

You can also sign your kids up for immersive junior ranger programs.

That way, they can learn about the natural landscape, discover its rich wildlife, and do other engaging activities.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Death Valley

7. Zion National Park

Zion National Park, UT (435) 772-3256

Zion National Park, encompassing more than 146,000 acres, is a national park resting in three Utah counties, Iron, Washington, and Kane.

Its expansive landscape boasts sandstone cliffs, rich greenery, canyons, sparkling bodies of water, plateaus, and stunning formations dating back over 13 million years ago.

It is the ideal place to take your children because it offers many facilities, including a fascinating museum, an immersive nature center, visitor centers, lodging places, and so on.

Make new memories as you go camping, hiking, rock climbing, canyoneering, backpacking, ATV-ing, and countless others.

It also offers guided adventures, including horseback riding, nature walks, junior ranger programs, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale

8. Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City, incorporated in 1978, is a waterfront city in Mohave County, nestled on the banks of Lake Havasu and the Colorado River.

Are you on your Las Vegas weekend getaways and looking for neighboring cities to visit less than three hours away?

Then, I highly recommend making your way to this gorgeous metropolis.

Have a fabulous time touring iconic landmarks, dining at well-renowned local eateries, signing up for guided tours, and more.

Kick-start your trip by heading to the Lake Havasu City Visitor Center, where you can watch a short video and learn which tourist hotspot or activity best suits your needs and desires.

Make your way to Lake Havasu State Park and have a memorable weekend lounging at a beach, boating, attending occasional park festivals, camping, kayaking, canoeing, and so on.

Beat the heat at Lake Havasu City Aquatic Center, boasting an indoor swimming pool, water slides, and lessons for all ages.

Recommended Hotel: Island Suites

9. Mojave National Preserve

90942 Kelso Cima Rd Essex, CA 92332 (760) 252-6100

The Mojave National Preserve, established in 1994, is an over 1.5 million-acre US national preserve in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino.

There are several fascinating and fun places to go for a weekend trip near you, like this natural attraction.

It boasts unique Joshua Trees, volcanic formations, expansive dunes, majestic mountains, deep canyons, and more.

Have a blast as you enjoy activities in the great outdoors, like 4-wheel driving, backpacking, biking, hiking through easy or challenging trails, horseback riding, hunting, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Travelodge by Wyndham Yermo

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in Nevada

10. Cedar City

Cedar City, UT 84720-84721 (435) 586-2953

Cedar City, nicknamed Festival City USA, is the largest metropolis in Iron County.

Are you going on your annual Las Vegas vacations with your loved ones and looking for other fantastic places nearby to explore?

If so, consider driving two hours and thirty minutes to this breathtaking metropolis.

Tour well-known attractions like the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum.

Here, you can learn about pioneer life through artifacts, pioneer craft demonstrations, rotating art exhibits, interpretive lectures, horse-drawn vehicles, guided tours, historic cabins, and more.

Are you visiting from June to October and searching for fantastic things to do?

Then, consider attending the annual Utah Shakespeare Festival, a Tony award-winning festival showcasing mesmerizing live productions of Shakespeare’s works.

Another must-visit when traveling with your family is the Cedar City Aquatic Center, boasting a lazy river, water slides, a lap pool, a hot tub, and a splash area for your little ones.

Enjoy other activities like hiking through picture-perfect trails, taking your kids to a park so they can enjoy the fresh air at a playground, visiting art galleries, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Cedar City

11. Prescott

Prescott, incorporated in 1881, is a beautiful city and the seat of Yavapai County in the central region of Arizona.

Go on cheap vacations from Las Vegas by driving roughly four hours to this incredible metropolis.

It has many outstanding attractions and touristy activities that won’t empty your pockets.

Tour places like the Sharlot Hall Museum, where you can learn about the culture and history of the Arizona Central Highlands.

Enjoy an endless array of outdoor recreational activities at Lynx Lake Recreation Area, like gold panning, picnicking, mountain biking, hiking, camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and so on.

You can also explore its downtown area, featuring historic buildings, diverse shops, local eateries, a lively commercial space, and other fun-filled opportunities.

See various animals up close by visiting the Heritage Park Zoo, home to native and exotic wildlife, like black bears, mountain lions, Mexican wolves, pythons, bald eagles, and lots more.

Recommended Hotel: Hassayampa Inn

12. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a land-locked city in the Sonoran Desert in the southern region of California.

Take your significant other on one of the best romantic getaways from Las Vegas by driving about four hours to this spectacular city.

Kick-start your weekend vacation by taking in alluring views aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating aerial tramway on earth.

Tour places like the Palm Springs Art Museum, showcasing approximately 24,000 pieces of varying forms, such as fine arts, Native American art, and natural science collections.

Have a leisurely time as you drive along ​​Palm Canyon Drive, boasting mesmerizing scenery and various attractions.

Spend quality time with your beloved as you relax in the rejuvenating waters of a hot spring, check into a trendy hotel, get a couples massage at a luxurious spa, play golf, and more.

Recommended Hotel: La Maison Hotel

13. Brian Head

Brian Head, UT 84719

Brian Head, formerly named Monument Peak, is a charming town incorporated in 1975 in Utah.

Are you searching for places near Las Vegas for vacation?

If so, consider driving three hours and ten minutes to this delightful town.

Have fun with your loved ones as you go on a weekend getaway this winter to Brian Head Ski Resort.

Once there, you can enjoy an array of activities like snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing.

Visit other attractions like Brian Head Peak Observation, where you can take in enthralling views of the natural landscape, and the Noorish Spa to enjoy a much-deserved day of pampering.

You can also traverse scenic trails like the Bunker Creek Trail, a popular choice for mountain bikers, and the Bristlecone Pine Trail, a better option for hikers.

Recommended Hotel: Brian Head Lodge

Tecopa, CA 92389

Tecopa, previously named Brownsville, is a census-designated place located in the Mojave Desert in the county of Inyo.

It is the ideal destination for your short trips from Las Vegas because it is about a 1-hour and 30-minute drive away.

Enjoy a leisurely time touring the China Ranch Date Farm & Bakery, a picture-perfect farm with lush greenery, date palms, a babbling stream, and a bakeshop selling assorted baked goods.

You can also check into places like Delight’s Hot Springs Resort, boasting top-notch amenities and therapeutic geothermal mineral-rich hot springs.

Recommended Hotel: Delight’s Hot Springs Resort

15. Williams

Williams, nicknamed the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, is an Arizona city in Coconino County.

Make the most of your weekend getaways in Las Vegas by exploring its neighboring cities, like Williams, roughly a 3-hour and 20-minute drive away.

It boasts several lodging facilities for all budgets, numerous dining choices for every appetite, Americana-style shops, and much more.

Have a memorable time as you board the Grand Canyon Train to appreciate unparalleled nature views.

You can also tour places like Williams Depot, a historic train station dating back to 1908, and Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum, an old-school gas station displaying vintage vehicles.

Are you vacationing with younger children?

If so, I recommend heading to the Grand Canyon Deer Farm LLC, a petting zoo home to fallow deer, llamas, cockatoos, and wallabies.

Take a break from touring by visiting the Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery, where you can sip craft beers or other spirits while snacking on mouth-watering dishes.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel

16. Caliente

Caliente, nicknamed the City of Roses, is a city in Lincoln County, previously named Calientes and Culverwell.

Are you searching for places to include on your last minute weekend getaways from Las Vegas?

Then, consider driving two hours and twenty minutes to Caliente.

Spend time outdoors at Kershaw-Ryan State Park, where you can enjoy picnicking, camping, hiking, and taking photos backed by the gorgeous landscape.

The Railroad Depot is a must-visit for history buffs because it debuted in 1923 and is now a historical landmark, city hall, art gallery, and library.

Another must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts is the Beaver Dam State Park.

Here, you’ll find ponds for fishing, picture-perfect trails for hiking, designated campgrounds for camping, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Shady Motel

Beatty, NV 89003 (775) 553-2050

Beatty, resting on the banks of the Amargosa River, is an unincorporated town in the county of Nye in Nevada, less than two hours from Las Vegas.

Have an unforgettable tour experience by visiting places like Rhyolite, a striking ghost town once a prominent mining district.

Prepare to be amazed by visiting the Goldwell Open Air Museum, an outdoor sculpture park boasting various sculptures of every shape, size, and color.

Learn the richness of the history of the Bullfrog mining district, its townspeople, and their daily life by heading to the Beatty Museum.

Test your luck at the StageCoach Hotel & Casino, where you can have a fun night out playing slot machines and table games while sipping exquisite alcoholic drinks at its full-service bar.

Recommended Hotel: Exchange Club Motel

18. Mt. Charleston

Mt. Charleston, NV 89124

Mt. Charleston, named after a nearby mountain, is a census-designated place in Clark County, about a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas.

This unincorporated town offers an impressive array of recreational activities you can enjoy year-round.

Bond with your travel buddies as you listen to good music while snacking on tasty treats while driving along Mt. Charleston Scenic Byway, a breathtaking drive.

Have a terrific time at the Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway, where you can view fascinating exhibits, look through items sold at its bookstore, and have a lovely picnic.

Recommended Hotel: K7 Bed and Breakfast

19. Laughlin

Laughlin, NV 89028-89029 (800) 522-4700

Laughlin, resting on the banks of the Colorado River, is a census-designated place and resort town in Clark County.

Create memories to last a lifetime by taking your family to this unincorporated town.

You may enjoy a plethora of activities here, like signing up for guided tours, heading to a casino, and tons more.

Get the chance to view a rotating collection of at least 80 classic, one-of-a-kind, and antique vehicles at Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Collection.

Spend your weekend at a world-class hotel by checking into Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino.

It boasts a 55,000-square-foot casino, live shows, a colossal arcade, several onsite eateries, a private beach, and two crystalline pools.

Have a fun day at the Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area, featuring two miles of sandy shoreline, designated campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and many others.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Bullhead City , an IHG Hotel

20. Mesquite

Mesquite, settled in 1880, is a land-locked city in Clark County, northeast of Las Vegas, less than three hours away.

You can sign up for guided excursions, private tours, sightseeing adventures, and other enjoyable possibilities here.

Discover the richness of local history and early pioneers at the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, also known as the Desert Valley Museum.

Spend quality time with your friends at the Eureka Casino Resort, boasting a sportsbook, several table games, and countless slot machines.

Immerse yourself in captivating artwork and the richness of artistic culture by viewing the many displays at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center.

Recommended Hotel: Highland Estates Resort Hotel

21. St. George

St. George, UT (435) 627-4000

St. George, nicknamed Utah’s Dixie, is the seat of Washington County in the southwestern region of Utah.

Take your family or friends on a much-deserved weekend vacation by driving three hours and twenty minutes from Las Vegas to this bustling city.

Explore places like the Red Hills Desert Garden, a 5-acre botanical garden boasting over 5,000 desert plants, dinosaur tracks dating back 200 million years ago, and a 1,150-foot stream.

Visit a historical and religious landmark by heading to St. George Temple, a temple of the LDS Church erected in 1877 with a Castellated Gothic architectural design.

Travel back in time by touring the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, a fossil site preserving thousands of dinosaur footprints.

Spend time outdoors at the 52-acre Pioneer Park, where you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, picnicking while grilling juicy barbecues, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn at Convention Center Saint George

22. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam, NV 89005 (702) 494-2517

The Hoover Dam, straddling the border of Arizona and Nevada, is a concrete arch-gravity dam that opened in 1936 in the Colorado River’s Black Canyon.

It is one of the most popular attractions in Nevada and is roughly a one-hour and thirty-minute drive from Las Vegas.

It has three different tours, like the Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour, its most affordable option.

Do you want to make the most out of your visit?

I suggest booking the Guided Dam Tour, which includes tours of its historic tunnels, an elevator ride to the top of Hoover Dam, a guided tour of its power plant, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel: Boulder Dam Hotel

23. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

1000 Scenic Loop Dr Las Vegas, NV 89161 (702) 515-5350

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, encompassing over 197,000 acres, is a national reserve in Clark County, Las Vegas.

It is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in the area, welcoming more than two million visitors annually.

Have a fantastic adventure in nature by enjoying numerous activities such as rock climbing, biking, hiking, rock scrambling, horseback riding, camping, picnicking, and so much more.

It boasts at least 600 diverse plant species, a 13-mile road for scenic driving, and a sizable visitor center where you can learn more about the area.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Las Vegas RedRock/Summerlin

24. Valley of Fire State Park

29450 Valley of Fire Hwy Overton, NV 89040 (702) 397-2088

The Valley of Fire State Park, spanning more than 46,000 acres, is a nature reserve and public recreation area established in 1935 in Clark County.

Here, you can enjoy activities like camping, stargazing, picnicking, hiking through scenic trails, bird watching, and discovering petroglyphs, which are fine rock art left by ancient peoples.

Have a more educational experience by heading to the Visitor Center, boasting informative displays on ecology, park history, geology, prehistory, and more.

Recommended Hotel: North Shore Inn at Lake Mead

25. Clark County Museum

1830 S Boulder Hwy Henderson, NV 89002 (702) 455-7955

The Clark County Museum is a history museum that debuted in Henderson, Nevada.

Go on one of the best weekend getaways from Las Vegas as you explore the area’s many highly acclaimed tourist hotspots, like this fascinating museum.

It is less than two hours away from Las Vegas.

You can learn about local history, railroads, Native American inhabitants, mining history, and much more.

It boasts several informative displays, a recreated ghost town, and numerous historic houses.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Henderson Hotel

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From Las Vegas, NV

25 Best Weekend Trips From Las Vegas 2024

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Roadtrip out of Las Vegas first week of May 2024: UT or CA? - Las Vegas Forum

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Roadtrip out of Las Vegas first week of May 2024: UT or CA?

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They need help deciding which direction out of Vegas is best for what they are looking for. They are mainly interested in spending time in nature: light day hikes, national parks. They also don’t want to feel rushed because they planned to do too much or drive too many places. In terms of weather, it would be easiest not to have to pack too differently than the type of clothing they will already need for Las Vegas. (Would like to avoid the need for heavy jackets!)

The good news is that they’ve both already been to Yosemite , Grand Canyon and Bryce/Zion, (over 10 years ago) so that relieves some of the pressure to do/see it all. Ideally, the trip also ends in a place where it is convenient to catch a direct flight back to JFK.

Here are the options they’ve been considering so far:

— Los Angeles - her fiancé has an aunt who lives in LA so they were originally excited about ending their road trip there to visit her. But it doesn’t look like there’s a whole lot of nature to explore on the way from LV > LA besides Joshua Tree and the Mojave Desert.

— Yosemite/Sequoia (ending in San Francisco )- they are most attracted to the idea of going to a wooded area, but this drive is longest. Fiancé doesn’t mind doing a lot of driving (he actually loves driving/road trips), but they are trying to maximize their time spent in the parks versus in the car . Also, it seems that the more scenic route of Tioga Pass won’t open until late May. They will also be in San Francisco during the last week of October 2024 for a wedding, so it’s possible they could visit these parks then.

— Bryce/Zion (ending Salt Lake City ?)- This seems like the best balance between keeping a short drive with a lot to see. Daughter is excited by the possibility of returning to Hell’s Backbone Grill and Farm, we had a great meal there as a family years ago. Are there any other must-sees along the 4 hour trip from Bryce/Zion to Salt Lake City? Ideally, they don’t want to backtrack to Las Vegas to fly out.

— Grand Canyon (possibly ending Phoenix ?)- They haven’t really considered this option as much, but they are open to this one too!

What would you recommend based on weather, what is open/available during the first week of May, and the amount of time they’d have to spend driving and sight-seeing (without getting rushed/stressed) in each place?

9 replies to this topic

Grand Canyon a great option where you can take in a chunk of Historic Route 66 but remember it will be cold there so pack accordingly!

You still might have a problem with some cold weather especially at the Grand Canyon, but Canyonlands and Arches are in the drier part of Utah. I would layer and pack a sweatshirt plus a light to mid weight jacket.

So many choices depending on how much driving they want to do! Something else to consider is going north to Lake Tahoe. On the way they can do Death Valley, Kings Canyon, Sequoia and spend several days in Tahoe, my favorite place in the world; lots of beautiful scenery, hiking and biking.

Personally, I now enjoy seeing Nevada as it is far from the madding crowds that are at places in CA, UT and AZ. I visited those places multiple times and no longer enjoy them with their usual crowds. Nice to be at excellent places and be one of the handful of tourists there. Have a look at the excellent official Nevada tourism website- https://travelnevada.com/ for all kinds of interesting information, from the quirky possibly haunted places to just excellent scenery or the FUN narrow slot canyons at Cathedral Gorge State Park, nothing else like them in the US and perhaps you'll be the only visitors there!.

I always get a kick out of posts where parents are planning for the adult "kids." I could be wrong, but I just don't think they will be following the parents lead on this, lol.

Zion would be my pick. Scenic drive, amazing trails. And an amazing hotel right outside the park - Cliffrose.

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Airbnb reveals the top wish-listed properties for summer 2024

Play-based stays are having a moment

The summer travel season is nearly here, and smart travelers are planning in advance. So where is everyone going? Airbnb has some insight into where people are heading and what kinds of experiences they’re looking for. Their 2024 Summer Travel Trends report reveals the places and properties that are trending across the platform for summer travel.

Sporting events this summer are going to be huge: the Olympics in Paris and European Football Championships in Germany are a big draw in Europe, but Airbnb data shows that travelers are increasingly looking for properties near America’s Soccer Tournament as well, in cities like Glendale, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Airbnb also reveals that users are searching the platform’s Play category in numbers more than double those of last year. Travelers are seeking stays this summer that are experiences in their own right, wish-listing places like an entire house with a massive games room in Illinois, a cabin with a whole playground in Oklahoma and a luxury compound in California with everything from pickleball and basketball to a pool and putting green. Families are also searching for fun, showing an increase in searches for amenities like barbecues, pools and private outdoor areas.

The top trending destinations this summer, according to Airbnb, are Quincy, Washington; Columbia, South Carolina; Las Vegas, Nevada; Glendale, Arizona; Ouray, Colorado; Eugene, Oregon; Broken Bow, Oklahoma; Saint Paul, Minnesota; Rosemary Beach, Florida and Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

For insight and inspiration, check out the full 2024 Summer Travel Trends report .

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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Daily Southtown | Lawsuit accuses Dolton official of…

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Daily southtown | lawsuit accuses dolton official of non-consensual sex with ‘blacked out’ village employee.

A Dolton village employee has named Mayor Tiffany Henyard, the village, Thornton Township and a village official in a lawsuit filed Monday that accuses the village official of performing non-consensual sex with the employee after she had “blacked out” during a May trip to Las Vegas led by the mayor.

The suit states the employee was with the village official after dinner and began to feel “disoriented” and “blacked out” and didn’t remember the events of the night until waking up in the official’s bed. A second plaintiff in the suit,  identified as a police officer and member of Henyard’s security detail, alleges in the suit that the official in a video call that evening showed the employee “partially undressed” in the official’s hotel bed.

The official “then moved the camera to various private areas of (the employee’s) body displaying them on screen,” according to the lawsuit, “and at times moving or removing articles of clothing as he transmitted the images.”

The security officer alleges the official later said the sex he had with the employee was “unprotected.” The officer shared that information with the employee, who later included that information while recounting the events of the night to Henyard, according to the lawsuit.

But, according to the lawsuit, the employee was fired shortly after bringing the accusation against the official to Henyard. And the security guard alleged “within days” of telling Henyard about his interactions with the trustee, he was removed from his role in the mayor’s security detail and was “demoted to patrol duty.”

Other forms of alleged retaliation alleged in the lawsuit include being forced to avoid the official and Henyard at events and being “subjected to criticism unlike his peers for various behaviors.”

Henyard, who is also the supervisor for Thornton Township, did not respond to requests for comment. The village official, who is named in the case but has not been charged by any law enforcement agency, also did not respond to requests for comment. Thornton Township official could not be reached. The assistant and the security guard are also named and could not be reached.

The lawsuit seeks to prove the defendants broke a variety of laws and seeks “civil remedies” if the village official violated the Nonconsensual Dissemination of Private Sexual Images Act. It also accuses the official of assault and battery.

The plaintiffs also are accusing Henyard, the village of Dolton and Thornton Township of violating the Human Rights Act. They argue that the village, township and Henyard violated the act by retaliating against them when they reported the official’s actions while on Las Vegas trip.

News of this lawsuit came after community members and some trustees called for an investigation into the Las Vegas trip . The trustees Monday approved hiring former Mayor of Chicago Lori Lightfoot investigate Henyard’s spending.

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Las Vegas Advisor | Travel

Las vegas advisor: tropicana faces razing possibly in october.

• By Anthony Curtis

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People ride an escalator outside of the Tropicana hotel-casino on March 28.

It’s been a while since the last big casino demolition on the Strip, but another may be in the works. Following the closing of the Tropicana, a 10-foot “razing wall” is being built around the property, with a demolition tentatively scheduled for October. The demolition could include an implosion of the two towers, “subject to permitting and further changes.” If it transpires, it will be the first Strip casino to be imploded since the Riviera in 2016.

Movie studio: Plans have been approved for a $1.8 billion movie studio and mixed-use development on the west side of town. The joint venture between Howard Hughes Holdings and Sony Entertainment will in some way involve actor Mark Wahlberg and will be called Summerlin Production Studios. In addition to the studio, plans call for the complex to include retail, restaurants and office space. No timeline has been divulged.

Airport jackpot: So much for the belief that the slots never pay off at the airport. A player at Reid International hit for $782,467 on a Wheel of Fortune Gold Spin Triple Red Hot 7s machine. It wasn’t reported if the player was on the way in or out of town.

Mini-tourney down: It was a lot of fun while it lasted, but the $25 blackjack mini-tournaments at the Downtown Grand have been discontinued after just a little more than a year of running on Thursday afternoons. There are currently no low-buy-in gambling tournaments in Las Vegas.

Question: Is there a way to redeem uncashed chips and slot vouchers from the Tropicana?

Answer: Tropicana chips can be redeemed at the cage at the neighboring OYO through July 31. Slot vouchers can be redeemed by mailing them in according to the instructions on the back of the ticket. Rewards points can be redeemed at any Bally’s property throughout the country until Dec. 31.

For more information about current Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons, and good deals, go to LasVegasAdvisor.com .

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Full List of Airport Lounges at Harry Reid International Airport [LAS]

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LAS Airport Lounges by Terminal

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With annual passenger traffic exceeding 51 million, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the eighth-busiest airport in the U.S. A popular destination for both business and leisure, passengers often choose to relax in one of the airport’s 6 lounges.

LAS is a large airport, with its 2 terminals located quite a distance from each other. Thankfully, the airport has a tram inside the secure area, allowing passengers to move between the terminals and concourses to utilize all facilities.

LAS Terminal Map

Hot Tip:  If you’re looking for information on the other facilities at LAS, check out our ultimate Terminal Guide to Harry Reid International Airport .

Capital One Lounge

Location : Concourse D rotunda Opening Hours : TBD (no timeline for opening is known at this time)

• Full-service espresso bar and a dining experience offering local beers, craft cocktails, and regional wines
• Grab-and-go food options with a local touch
• Nursing rooms
• Relaxation rooms
• Semi-private work areas
• Shower suites
• Cardholders must use their Capital One card to qualify for complimentary or discounted access.
• All visitors must present a boarding pass for a departing or connecting same-day flight.
• You can only utilize the lounge within 3 hours of your departure (even if you have a longer connection).
• You cannot utilize the lounge on arrival, only on departure.
• Children under 2 can enter for free with a supervising parent or guardian.

The Centurion Lounge

Location : Concourse D, opposite gate D1 Opening Hours : Daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

• Business center
• Conference room
• Family room
• Full-service bar
• Self-serve buffet with hot and cold dishes

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

• Family members and guests must be accompanied by the relevant cardholder at all times. Re-entry into the lounge is not permitted without the cardholder.
• Complimentary guest access is per day (e.g. cardholders can’t bring different guests into the lounge over the course of a day).
• Children under 2 years are free to enter the lounge with proof of age.

The Club LAS

Harry Reid International Airport has 2 The Club LAS lounges:

• Terminal 3, Concourse E, opposite gate E2 : Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
• Concourse D, level 2, near gate D33 : Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Bar serving soft and alcoholic drinks
• Business services
• Digital newspapers and magazines
• First class lounge area

Hot Tip: The Club at LAS is considered one of the best Priority Pass lounges in the U.S.

United Club Lounge

Location : Concourse D, between gates D33 and D35 on level 3 Opening Hours : Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

• Newspapers and magazines
• Self-serve buffet food and snacks
• United Club members can be accompanied by 1 spouse and child under 21 or up to 2 guests.
• Guests must be 21 to access a club with a self-serve bar in the U.S. unless they are accompanied by a guest over the age of 21.
• Day pass guests may bring 1 infant under 2, free of charge.
• Entry is subject to capacity for day pass guests.

Read the full list of house rules on United’s website .

Harry Reid International Airport has 2 USO lounges:

• Terminal 1, near the A and B security checkpoints (pre-security) : Daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Terminal 3, in the baggage claim area near carousels 20 and 21 : Daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Books and magazines
• Lounge areas
• Refreshments
• Work areas with computers

Active duty, guard, reserve military, and their dependents, and retired military may access these USO Lounges.

Passengers are able to move between the terminals and concourses by riding the frequent airport tram. The 3 tram lines operate inside the secure area and are color-coded to help passengers identify which route they require:

• Green line : Terminal 1 to C gates/ C gates to Terminal 1
• Blue line : D gates to Terminal 1/Terminal 1 to D gates
• Red line : Terminal 3 to D gates/D gates to Terminal 3

Passengers using the tram are not required to re-clear security, so this offers the freedom of moving between terminals for lounge access.

With a Priority Pass Select membership, you’ll have access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide — including the 2 Priority Pass lounges at LAS. So which credit cards give you access to Priority Pass lounges?

Our top option is the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , which not only includes access to Priority Pass lounges but Priority Pass restaurants as well. At a Priority Pass restaurant, you will receive a $28 credit towards your bill, and $56 when dining with a guest. This benefit is limited to 2 guests, so $56 is the most you can receive.

Another excellent option is the Amex Platinum card . While it does not work for Priority Pass restaurants, it more than makes up for it in terms of the total lounges you’ll have access to. In addition to Priority Pass lounges upon enrollment, you can also visit Amex Centurion lounges ,  Plaza Premium Lounges ,  Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), Escape Lounges , and more. See our article which goes into detail about the lounges you can access with the Amex Platinum card .

Here are some other great credit card options that allow cardholders to visit Priority Pass lounges:

• Amex Business Platinum card
• Citi Prestige ® Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card
• U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite ® Card

Although there isn’t a great deal of choice when it comes to lounges at Harry Reid International Airport, there are a few that you can purchase single-visit access to. The Club LAS lounges are available to passengers traveling on any airline, while passengers traveling on a Star Alliance airline may purchase entry to the United Club.

The Centurion Lounge is a firm favorite with travelers that have the applicable credit cards that permit entry, with the option to purchase guest passes for a reasonable fee.

The information regarding the U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite ® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information for the Citi Prestige ® Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Information regarding the Capital One Spark Miles for Business was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.   For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a priority pass lounge at las.

There are 2 Priority Pass lounges at Harry Reid International Airport. Both are The Club LAS lounges, with 1 located in Concourse E and the other in Concourse D.

Is there a Virgin Lounge at LAS?

There is no dedicated Virgin Atlantic lounge at Harry Reid International Airport, but Upper Class passengers may access The Club LAS lounge prior to their flight.

Does LAS have a Delta lounge?

Harry Reid International Airport does not have a Delta Sky Club.

What lounges does Harry Reid International Airport have?

Harry Reid International Airport has 6 airport lounges:

• 2x The Club LAS
• The Centurion Club
• United Club
• 2x USO Lounges

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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