winter day trips from 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 :)

December 1, 2021

8 winter road trips from las vegas.

Ready to escape the neon signs of Sin City this winter? Check out these 8 road trips!

Las Vegas has some of the best entertainment options in the world. There are also tons of Instagram-worthy urbanscapes and can’t-miss sights . But if you want to enjoy something beyond the casinos, resorts, fancy meals, and the hustle of the city, you’re in for a treat. Within easy driving distance, you’ll find a wide variety of breathtaking destinations. Let’s explore eight winter road trips from Las Vegas you should explore this season.

8 Las Vegas Winter Road Trips You’ll Love

1. antelope canyon.

Approximately 280 miles away from Las Vegas lies Antelope Canyon , one of the most spectacular winter road trip destinations. Here you’ll find two slot canyons that deliver a one-of-a-kind physical and visual experience.

There are two levels to this canyon. The upper is on the ground level, and the lower is through a narrow passageway about 50 feet below ground. As you enter, you’ll be welcomed by views of glorious twisty sandstones. You’ll also be amazed by the stunning plays of light against the sandstones, sculpted by rushing water and desert storms.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tse Bighanilini Tours (@antelopecanyon)

‍ Note that this can only be toured with authorized guides. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tour to get the full immersion of this magnificent rock formation spot.

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

2. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a winter road trip destination you can’t miss. This 56-square mile park is made up of a large collection of unique hoodoos (pillars of rocks shaped by erosion).

This park has several canyons, the most famous of which is Bryce Amphitheater. It’s located about 8,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level, so be sure to bring extra layers with you.

There are three other vantage points you’ll want to check out: Inspiration Point, Sunrise Point, and Sunset Point. If you want a close look at the hoodoos, pack up your hiking gear and explore the trails throughout the park.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bryce Canyon National Park (@brycecanyonnps_gov)

‍ Pro Tip: Bryce Canyon is right on the way to most of the main sights in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Zion National Park (more on these below). If you have time, you might want to combine them into a single road trip.

Driving Time from Las Vegas: 4 hours

3. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Spanning across nearly 1.87 million acres of the country’s public lands in southern Utah, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a winter road trip that’s a must on your list.

The Monument is a diverse geologic treasure with arches, monoliths, natural bridges, and slot canyons. As the name suggests, it boasts a spectacular grand staircase of cliffs and terraces and the wonders of the Escalante River Canyons.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bureau of Land Management (@mypubliclands)

‍ Hike through the Zebra Slot Canyon, a narrow path with striped rocks. A word of caution, though: It can get tough with the narrow gaps and neck-deep water. Then there’s the Devil’s Garden, which overlooks large rock hoodoos standing in the middle of the desert.

Driving time from Las Vegas: 3.5 hours

4. Joshua Tree National Park

Named after special trees that look like a standing person with arms stretched upwards, Joshua Tree National Park is one for the books when it comes to winter road trips.

In the park, you’ll be treated to activities like camping, hiking, and rock climbing. You can also trek through the rugged rocks while enjoying the marvelous Joshua trees. At night, you get to stargaze in much more clarity given the lack of light.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joshua Tree National Park (@joshuatreenps)

‍ If you’re more into guided tours, the Keys Ranch Tour teaches you the history of the Keys Family and how they lived in the Mojave Desert.

5. Southern California

Hop in your car, start driving southwest on Interstate 15, and head to Southern California.

On this winter road trip, you can start off by checking out the LA scene — Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, and Rodeo Boulevard in Beverly Hills. SoCal also offers a lot of odd roadside attractions along the way.

Don’t miss out on coastal stops like Santa Monica, Venice Beach, El Matador, and Malibu. A few minutes inland, you’ll also find spectacular hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, which overlook the Pacific Ocean.

If you are with kids (or kids at heart), a day out at Universal Studios in Hollywood and Disneyland in Anaheim are both amazing.

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4 hours

6. Mt. Charleston

While this winter road trip is quick and easy, it makes you feel like you’re a world away from Las Vegas. Mt. Charleston is the highest peak in the Spring Mountains, located in the northwest area of Sin City. It’s an oasis of cold springs, evergreen wilderness, and fresh mountain air.

Mt. Charleston offers a variety of activities for outdoor lovers and Mother Nature advocates . Here you have options to go camping, hiking, horseback riding, skiing, or walking. There are also picnic spots and viewing trails that you can enjoy. Don’t forget to snap breathtaking shots from Charleston Peak or see abundant Bristlecone pines in the trails.

Besides skiing and snowboarding, Lee Canyon Ski and Snowboard Resort allows you to enjoy archery, axe-throwing, and disc golf. Don’t miss the chair-lift rides where you can soak up the views of Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Go Mt. Charleston (@gomtcharleston)

‍ Driving time from Las Vegas: 1 hour

7. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a popular winter road trip destination because it’s surrounded by mountains on three sides and a lake on the other.

Although less than half of the city’s population is Mormon, it’s worth visiting Temple Square . The Mormon Temple is the grandest in the world, and you can see it on Temple Square with the Reflecting Pool in front. Then you’ll find the Mormon Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and the Assembly Hall. 

You also have to drop by the ski resorts near the city. Up Interstate 80, you’ll find Deer Valley and Park City . Smaller resorts like Alta Ski Area and Snowbird up the Little Cottonwood Valley are also amazing. (Plus, you get to enjoy the scenic Wasatch Range along the way.)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alta Ski Area (@altaskiarea)

‍ If you love skiing but you’re not keen about crowds, Powder Mountain and Snowbasin are your best options. If you prefer a smaller and more historic resort, head south to Sundance Mountain Resort .

Driving time from Las Vegas: 6 hours

8. Zion National Park

In southwestern Utah, you’ll find Zion National Park , one of the grandest national parks in the country that’s perfect for your winter road trip.

At its heart is the majestic Zion Canyon that’s embraced with forest greens and hundreds of species of animals and birds.

There is also a range of trails you can embark on. The trails to Weeping Rock, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook are reasonably easy. If you’re more experienced, the Narrows is a 16-mile hike that passes through a narrow canyon and wading cold river. And for expert hikers, try the 2.5-mile steep climb to the breathtaking Angel’s Landing.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zion National Park (@zionnps)

‍ Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours ‍

While there are many things to do in Las Vegas during winter , it’s a great starting point to jumpstart a road trip journey. And if you’re looking for a change of pace, fresher scenery, or simply a quick getaway this season, these eight winter road trips should be part of your itinerary. 

Las Vegas and its surroundings have a whole lot to offer. Are you looking to call the city your home? Contact The Brendan King Group and we can help you make it happen. ‍

For more road trip destinations from Las Vegas, check out this blog .

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

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

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

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

• Vegas Packing List – For Ladies!
• BEST Instagram Spots in Las Vegas
• Best Things to do in Vegas Besides Gambling!
• 10 BIG Mistakes to Avoid in Las Vegas!
• Best Bars in Downtown Las Vegas
• 40 FREE Things to do in Las Vegas
• Girls Guide to Las Vegas
• How to spend your 21st Birthday in Las Vegas
• 3 Days in Las Vegas Itinerary!

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

What to Pack for a Road Trip

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

1. Good pair of Sunglasses 

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

2. GPS for when you don’t have service

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

3. USA National Park Booklet

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

4. Hand Sanitizer 

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

Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe Bend

2. Grand Canyon (2 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

3. Hoover Dam (45 minutes)

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

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

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

4. Lake Mead (45 minutes)

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

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

Recommended Read: Things to do in Vegas besides gamble!

5. Valley of Fire (1 hour)

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

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

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

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

6. Mount Charleston (1 hour)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Badwater Salt Flats (2 hours)

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

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

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

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

9. Area 51 (2 hours and 30 minutes)

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

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

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

10. Lake Havasu (2.5 Hours)

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

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

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

11. Los Angeles & Hollywood (4 hours)

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

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

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

12. Pahrump Wine Tasting (1 hour)

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

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

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

13. Brian Head (3 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Bryce Canyon (4 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Like this post pin it here 🙂.

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17 BEST Day Trips from Las Vegas (+Map, Tours & Planning Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 16, 2023

Las Vegas, Nevada, is located really close to some of the most beautiful nature destinations in the US. You probably already heard of Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon to mention just a few… But there is a lot more to see around Las Vegas than that!

So if you are planning a trip to the region, definitely consider taking at least a few (multi-) day trips near Las Vegas. In this guide, you can read about the VERY BEST destinations that you can visit on a day trip from Vegas. Find out!

There is no doubt that Las Vegas is a top destination in the US, but there’s so much more to see and do in the area than just the best Las Vegas sights and attractions ! Since Vegas is within driving distance of a ton of gorgeous sites in the southwest desert, there are many amazing places that you can visit near Las Vegas that will make your trip even more special.

In this article, you can find our selection of the very best places to see near Vegas and the most popular Las Vegas day trips, coupled with practical information and tips for visiting each place. Where to go, why visit, how to get there, and how long it takes.

In addition, for each destination, we also include the best day tours from Las Vegas , so that you can easily visit most of these places even if you don’t have a car or simply don’t feel like planning it all by yourself.

So if you are looking for an escape from the hustle of the Vegas Strip, rent a car or book a tour and explore some of these cool tourist destinations near Las Vegas.  Most of these places can be seen in one day, but if you have the time, you might want to explore some of them a little longer.

In order to help you plan your trip and give you a better idea of where all the sights mentioned in this article are located, we created a map of the best places to visit near Las Vegas – see below.

As you can see, some of these places are just a short drive from the city, while some others are quite far away and will require an entire day. But if you don’t mind a long drive, you can visit some of the most beautiful natural landmarks as a day trip from Vegas, and it’s totally worth it!

Good to know: While you don’t need a car to explore Las Vegas itself, you’ll need to rent a car or take tours for all the places mentioned in this article . For each place mentioned below, we include tips on how to visit by car and also the best tour suggestions.

If you decide to rent a car, we recommend that you only rent it for those days when you are indeed planning to leave the city (see Las Vegas travel tips for more information). On this website , you can find the best deals for car hire in Las Vegas. We always use this site when renting cars for our road trips. On this site, we also found a great deal for car hire on our most recent trip to the Las Vegas area.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: No matter where you go in this area, be smart about the heat of the desert – it is hot, and it is a dry heat. You might not realize how hot the sun is until it is too late… So pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water.  Once you’ve packed your water, pack a bit more – you cannot have too much, especially if visiting Las Vegas surroundings in the warmest months.

On the other hand, in winter, some of these places near Las Vegas might also get snow, so be sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly!

These are the best day trips from Las Vegas:

1. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River is a man-made wonder and the most popular day trip from Las Vegas. This behemoth structure is visited by a million tourists each year and is considered a National Historic Landmark. It is also one of America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders.

A visit here takes you back in time to the 1930s when – at that time – the tallest dam in the world was built. At the Visitor Center, you can see models and exhibits, and you can also admire the impressive dam itself from various viewpoints.

One of the cool things about Hoover Dam is that it is located on the border of Arizona and Nevada, so you can take a picture of yourself with one half of your body in each state.

You can visit Hoover Dam year-round and it’s open from 5 AM to 9 PM. Hoover Dam Tours also run daily (apart from Christmas and Thanksgiving), from 9 AM to 5 PM. There is an option to do a self-guided Visitor Center tour, a Power Plant tour, or a guided tour at the dam, where you will explore tunnels, elevators, and view the Colorado River from a few unique spots within the dam. For more information about self-guided tours, please consult the official website .

TIP: Be sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunglasses, you are in the desert after all and it will get hot!

How to visit Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

By car: Hoover Dam is about 45-60 minutes drive from Las Vegas Strip and you can easily drive there by car and visit it on your own. If you are driving from Vegas, you should schedule about 4 hours for a visit in total, but that also depends on which tour you take at the Hoover Dam and how much time you decide to spend there. You can also make it a full-day excursion by exploring the nearby Boulder City, Lake Mead, or Nelson Ghost Town (more info about these places further below).

All cars will have to go through a security checkpoint and when you check out the Visitor Center, you will have to go through a security screening.

With a tour: A popular way to visit Hoover Dam is with an organized tour. Most tours will pick you up and drop you off at your Vegas hotel, so you don’t have to worry about anything at all. There are various tours that visit Hoover Dam from Las Vegas, often in combination with other places nearby. Here are some of the very best tours that visit Hoover Dam from Vegas:

• 3-hour small-group tour . This popular tour that only visits Hoover Dam offers the best price-quality. Perfect if you are short on time.
• Walk-on-top-of-the-Dam tour . This unique tour not only brings you to the top of the Hoover Dam but also includes a Boulder City visit and the Boulder Dam museum.
• Hoover Dam & Grand Canyon West tour . This small-group tour combines two of the best places near Las Vegas in a day.
• Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon & 7 Magic Mountains Tour . This day tour combines the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam visit, and a photo stop at the colorful Instagrammable ‘Magic Mountains’ near Las Vegas.
• Hoover Dam & Colorado River kayak tour . This is a very unique way to see Hoover Dam and spend a fun day far away from the hustle and bustle of Vegas and Hoover Dam itself.

2. Grand Canyon West & Skywalk

The Grand Canyon National Park is split into the North Rim, the South Rim, and the West area. The Grand Canyon West Rim is the closest and the easiest to visit from Las Vegas, especially if you don’t feel like sitting in the car the whole day.

The glass-bottomed Skywalk is the main attraction at Grand Canyon West. This 10-foot-wide engineering marvel extends out 70 feet into the Grand Canyon. The panoramic views will leave you speechless and you can also purchase a professional photo of your Skywalk adventure. If you are afraid of heights, however, you might want to sit this one out and just explore the other viewpoints. 

You are required to store all purses, bags, cell phones, and cameras before making your way across the Skywalk. They do not want you to drop them on the precious glass surface. You will also be required to wear booties over your shoes on the walkway.  

If you are looking for a really special experience, you may want to dine at the Sky View Restaurant that offers stunning views of the canyon. Be sure to tour the Native American Village at Eagle Point where you can visit houses built in the traditional style and learn more about the daily life of regional tribes in the past.

Also, stop by the Hualapai Cultural Center or pick up some Native American Treasures at Creations by Native Hands gift shop. Guano Point , at the site of an old guano mine, offers very different views than Eagle Point and is not to be missed as well.

TIP: If you visit on a weekend, you may attend traditional musical performances by the Hualapai Tribe . They run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between 11 AM and 3 PM.

Good to know: This part of the Grand Canyon is managed by the Hualapai Indian tribe and so your National Park pass is not valid here. Many people find themselves frustrated when they realize that visiting the West Rim is more expensive per person than the other parts of the Grand Canyon for the whole family. In addition, the Grand Canyon Skywalk requires an extra ticket (more info and ticket prices here ). So be aware of the significant price difference and – if you are concerned about budget – you may want to visit the South Rim instead (more info below).

How to visit Grand Canyon West from Las Vegas

Good to know: Grand Canyon West is open daily, from 9 AM to 6-7 PM. From March to October, the last ticket is sold at 5.30 PM, in summer – at 6.30 PM. You don’t have to reserve if you are just visiting for a day.

By car: Grand Canyon Skywalk is about 130 miles, 2- 2.5 hours drive from Las Vegas. Try to get there as early as you can and visit Skywalk first thing in the morning before it gets too busy. The busiest hours are from around 11 AM to 4 PM, so if you want to avoid the crowds, keep this in mind.

With a tour: One of the easiest ways to visit Grand Canyon West from Las Vegas is by joining an organized tour . Some tours also include a stop at the Hoover Dam, some include a helicopter ride and a boat ride, so this might be a good way to visit several of the best places near Las Vegas and make the most out of your day.

Here are some of the best tours that visit Grand Canyon West and Skywalk from Vegas:

• Grand Canyon West & Skywalk . This is one of the most popular tours to the Grand Canyon West from Las Vegas. Skywalk ticket is optional so you can decide whether you want to go on it or not.
• Grand Canyon West, Skywalk, Hoover Dam, Boulder City & Seven Magic Mountains . This is the most complete day tour from Vegas that allows you to see several of the very best places near Las Vegas in one day. Skywalk ticket is optional and lunch is not included in the price.
• Grand Canyon West by helicopter . This is the most popular West Rim tour that includes a helicopter flight from Vegas to Grand Canyon West . Refreshments are also included, but you don’t get to walk on Skywalk (the views from a helicopter more than make up for it).

Further below, you can read more about visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (see #6 on this list) and also about the best air tours over the Grand Canyon (see #3 below). Read on!

3. Grand Canyon by Helicopter or Airplane

If you are not keen on spending hours and hours on the bus, you’ll be glad to know that you can experience the Grand Canyon by helicopter or by airplane from Las Vegas as well.

So for those with a higher budget and shorter time, we recommend Grand Canyon air tours from Las Vegas . It’s the best way to see a lot in a limited time and without the long bus drives.

Here are some of the best Grand Canyon air tours from Las Vegas:

• Grand Canyon helicopter landing tour . This is the most popular Grand Canyon helicopter tour from Las Vegas. Landing inside the canyon makes it a truly unique experience and you get to spend some time deep inside the canyon. In addition, you fly over Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and an extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Depending on the options selected, this tour takes about 4.5-5 hours.
• Grand Canyon West airplane tour . This is a good option for those who want to save time, but prefer an airplane over a helicopter. You are first taken to a small airport near Boulder City, from where you cover all the big distances by small plane. So this tour only takes about 4 hours in total and it’s also much cheaper than any of the helicopter tours.

4. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is a great place to explore the beautiful “fire” red sandstone formations that this Nevada desert landscape is famous for. The colorful otherworldly rocks can make you feel like you are on another planet. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip, this park is a desert masterpiece that you don’t want to miss.  

Valley of Fire State Park is just 50 miles northeast of Las Vegas about an hour’s drive on Interstate 15. If you drive in your own car, get up early and hit the trails before the hottest hours of the day. That way, you can still be back on the Strip for a late dinner and a show that evening. 

46,000 acres of pink, orange and red rocks, panoramic vistas, petroglyphs, and hiking trails for all levels make this a must-see easy day trip from Las Vegas . If you want to spend the night and sleep under the stars, it has two campgrounds that are equipped with grills, water, restrooms, and showers.  

Be sure to check out The Beehives, Elephant Rock, and take the short hike to Mouse’s Tank. Mouse’s Tank is less than a mile round trip and ends at a natural rock basin that collects water after a rainfall. If you want to see ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock formations, the easiest places to see them are Mouse’s Tank and Atlatl Rock. One of the best short hikes in the park is the Fire Wave hike.

Good to know: Valley of Fire is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water.

How to visit Valley of Fire State Park from Las Vegas

By car: Valley of Fire State Park is about 50 miles, 1 hour drive northeast from Las Vegas. Depending on what you’re planning to see and do, you can spend just a few hours here or a few days. But even when visiting as a day trip, you can easily experience some of the most stunning scenery, and this makes the Valley of Fire State Park one of the nicest nature getaways near Las Vegas. It will cost $10-15 per vehicle to enter the park. Be sure to grab a map at the entrance booth. 

With a tour: Valley of Fire can also be visited with an organized tour from Las Vegas. There are quite a few options and most tours take about 4-7 hours. Here are some of the best Valley of Fire State Park day tours from Vegas:

• Small-group hiking tour . On this tour, you get to see some of the highlights of the Valley of Fire State Park by embarking on a nice hike based on your fitness level or interests. There are easy, moderate, or difficult hikes to choose from and this flexibility makes it the most popular tour for a day trip to this beautiful park. Please note that this tour doesn’t include lunch, only snacks and beverages.
• Small-group or private tour of the highlights . This is the most popular Valley of Fire tour from Las Vegas that doesn’t involve much hiking. So if you just want to see all the highlights coupled with a commentary and knowledge of a local guide, definitely consider this option. It’s also great for bigger families or groups of friends who rather not travel with big group tours. Lunch, snacks, and an unlimited supply of water included.
• A small-group Pink Jeep tour . This tour by the famous Pink Jeep Tours Las Vegas offers a great way to visit the Valley for those who are not interested in hiking and find the private tours too expensive. Their luxurious and airconditioned 4×4 vehicles with large windows, only take groups of up to 10 people, ensuring a more private experience. Lunch and water are included.

5. Death Valley National Park

If you are looking for more beautiful places to see near Las Vegas, definitely consider a visit to Death Valley National Park . Not only does it have some of the most unique landscapes in the United States, but it is also known to be one of the hottest, driest places in the States, with the hottest recorded temperature on earth of 134°F (57°C). 

For those reasons, it is advised you visit during the cooler winter months (December-February) and to be extra careful if you visit during the summer (May-September). The summer months can make a visit to Death Valley very challenging or even dangerous if you are not prepared for extreme conditions.

Dehydration occurs very quickly here! You must drink at least 1 gallon of water per person per day. If you are doing anything strenuous or hiking longer distances, you will need much more than that… Also, be sure to pack/wear long sleeves and long pants to cover skin, a brimmed hat (or even an umbrella), and very comfortable shoes.

If you are only visiting Death Valley for a day, be sure to check out these must-see areas: 

• Badwater Basin. The lowest point in North America at 282 ft (86m) below sea level. You will feel like you are on another planet looking at the salt flats. Don’t miss Dante’s View !
• Artists Drive . Stay in the comfort of your air-conditioned car and take this scenic drive about 9 miles.
• Zabriskie Point . One of the best viewpoints with stunning scenery, and just next to the road.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes . You will truly feel like you are in the desert as you view the giant dunes of sand.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to See in Death Valley

How to Visit Death Valley as a day trip from Las Vegas

By car: Death Valley Junction is about 90 miles, 1h40 drive west of Las Vegas. The main roads inside the park are very good and you can see some of the best scenery just by driving around and stopping at some of the viewpoints. And because Death Valley is a relatively short drive from Vegas, you can actually see a lot in just a day.

Also here, you’ll have to pay a National Park entrance fee ($30 per vehicle). However, if you are visiting several parks on this trip (or over a period of 12 months), it’s better to just get an annual America the Beautiful Pass for $80. You can find all the practical information for your visit on the official NPS website .

With a tour: Death Valley can also easily be visited from Las Vegas by booking an organized tour . These tours aren’t cheap, but if you want to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving or figuring out where to go, they can be well worth it. It also saves you the National Parks fee and the hassle of car rental if you’re only in the area for a short time. Here are the best Death Valley day tours from Las Vegas (all fees, hotel pick-up, and picnic lunch included):

• Full-day small-group tour . This is the most popular day tour that covers all the main highlights of Death Valley and more. It’s a very complete tour that brings you to all the must-see places in a day.
• Pink Jeep small-group tour . This is a good option for those who want to see the musts, but also get a bit off the beaten path.

6. Grand Canyon South Rim

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most known and most popular area of the Grand Canyon. When you see postcards and images from the Grand Canyon, they are likely taken here.

And while South Rim is about 280 miles/ 4.5 hours drive from Vegas, it can also be visited as a (very long) day trip from Las Vegas. However, if you have a chance to add at least one night here (ideally, two), definitely do that – it will allow you to explore the South Rim at a more relaxed pace and you’ll enjoy it more. In that case, please read our guide on where to stay in and near Grand Canyon .

The South Rim is open all year and receives about 90% of the park’s traffic. There is so much to do in this area and there is something for everyone. Visit some of the museums and the visitors center to learn more about the Canyon’s rich history, take a helicopter tour and see the Grand Canyon from above, explore the most famous viewpoints on foot, rent a bike, or take a free park shuttle. With more time here, you can also go hiking, star gazing, or explore the canyon via mule as people did back in the day.

If you can arrive here very early and spend a full day here, please check our guide on the best way to visit Grand Canyon in one day. If, however, you are coming here and driving back to Las Vegas on the same day, I highly recommend that you go on a tour. Not only you’ll be able to rest on a bus, but they’ll also make sure that you see all the musts and make the most of your short visit. More practical information and the best tour options below.

How to visit Grand Canyon South Rim as a day trip from Las Vegas

By car: As already mentioned, Grand Canyon South Rim is a long 4.5 hours drive from Vegas. So we don’t recommend driving here and back on the same day unless you can start very early and are prepared for a long tiring day.

There are two entrances to the South Rim and both are accessed by Hwy 64. The South Entrance is closest to Tusayan and closest to Las Vegas (thus very busy), whereas the East/Desert View Entrance is quieter, but even further away.  If you want to get to the heart of the South Rim by exploring the visitors center, restaurants, and main lodging areas then enter through the South Entrance.

Good to know: In high season, if you don’t arrive here before 8 AM (9 AM at the latest), you’ll likely spend more time queuing to get inside the park than sightseeing… Also, you will need to pay $35 per vehicle to enter the park.

With a tour: As already mentioned, with just a day visiting Grand Canyon South Rim from Las Vegas, we highly recommend that you go with an organized tour. Tours will pick you up in Vegas and you can sit back and relax while they take care of all the practicalities and make sure that you get to see as much as possible in a day. Here are some of the best Grand Canyon South Rim day tours from Las Vegas:

• Day tour to the South Rim . This is the most popular bus tour to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. It takes about 15 hours in total, stops at Grand Canyon Caverns off of Route 66 for an hour, and visits a couple of the main viewpoints along the South Rim, where you get about 3 hours. The National Park ticket, lunch, and snacks are included. Because it’s a big bus tour, it offers quite good value for your money.
• Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam & Seven Magic Mountains Tour . This small-group tour from Las Vegas offers a 3-in-1 experience allowing you to see Hoover Dam, Seven Magic Mountains, and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon on the same day. You get quite some free time at the South Rim and can visit some of the best viewpoints. This is mpre expensive than the big bus tour, but you get to see more and small groups always save time by not having to wait for other people, so you have more time for sightseeing.

7. Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is another beautiful nature destination just a short 30-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip. Spectacular rock formations set the stage for buttes, cliffs, and some great hiking.

You could easily spend several hours at Red Rock exploring various hiking trails. However, if you only have a couple of hours one of the best things to do in Red Rock Canyon State Park is drive the 13-mile Scenic Drive. Depending on how many times you get out to explore, you could drive this in about 45-60 minutes and see most of the hot spots of Red Rock.

This Mojave Desert park has been the location for many western movies and various commercials through the years. Equestrians will love this park because horses are allowed on all roads. You can also go biking or rock climbing here. For more information and ideas of things to do, please check the official website .

One of the nicest ways to explore this stunning area is by e-bike. You can book a self-guided e-bike tour or you can join a guided e-bike tour (bikes and transfer from the city included in both cases).

TIP: Also here, be sure to bring twice as much water as you think you need. Also, bring sun protection and some layers in case you experience sudden shifts in the desert temperatures.

How to visit Red Rock Canyon

By car: Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center is about 17 miles west from Las Vegas Strip. Depending on the traffic, it’s about a 30-40 minutes drive from the city. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and the bustle of Vegas and one of the nicest places nearby that can be visited in just a couple of hours.

It will cost $15 per vehicle to get into Red Rock or you can use the annual National Parks pass . This pass is a really good investment when touring through various National Parks and State Parks in the U.S.

If you want to get off the beaten path, off-highway vehicles are allowed on the dirt road system within the park as long as you have a green sticker. Make sure you have your license with you, check maps for open routes, and watch for closed route signs. 

Good to know: In the high season (October through May), they work with timed-entry system for the Scenic Drive. So be sure to check the official site before you go!

With a tour: If you do not have a rental car you can join one of the tours that visit Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas. There are  various tours . The above-mentioned bike tours are great if you like to explore deeper (and are traveling in the cooler months). Alternatively, there are also small-group sightseeing tours, and many of them visit a few other places near Las Vegas, in addition to the Red Rock Canyon. Here are some of the best options:

• Red Rock Canyon and Seven Magic Mountains . This popular tour combines two popular places near Vegas in just half a day. Perfect for those looking for a short escape from Las Vegas for a couple of hours.
• Red Rock Canyon only . This is one of the shortest and the cheapest Red Rock Canyon tour from Vegas. Perfect for those who just want to quickly see this beautiful area without spending an entire day on it.
• 4×4 off-road tour . This is a great tour for those who – in addition to the main highlights – also want to get off the beaten path and explore the lesser-visited parts of the Red Rock Canyon.

8. Zion National Park

About 160 miles northeast of Las Vegas, in Utah, you’ll find one more of America’s most visited national parks , Zion National Park .

Thousands of years ago the Virgin River carved out the canyons of Zion and the scenery here is truly epic. If you have the time to take a couple of days away from Las Vegas, a longer visit to Zion should be at the top of your list. But even if you can only visit for one day, it is possible to see some of the beautiful vast landscape of Zion as a day trip from Las Vegas as well.

There are many stunning hikes in Zion, offering access to some jaw-dropping scenery that you won’t easily see otherwise. But if you are only visiting Zion for a day, it’s probably best to just focus on the scenic roads and maybe do one or two shorter hikes.

Good to know: In high season, the road inside the Zion Canyon is closed and you have to take a shuttle to get around. With just a few hours in the park, you could take a bus and do a short hike to Lower Emerald Pools and/or Weeping Rock. Other popular easy trails include the Pa’rus Trail and Riverside Walk. You can find more information about all these hikes in our Zion hiking guide .

Alternatively, if you don’t have much time, simply drive the scenic Hwy 9 through the park and check out the Canyon Overlook Trail . It’s a relatively easy short hike and the trailhead is easily accessible from the main road, so you don’t need to go inside the canyon or use the shuttle for this hike. This is probably a better option if you are also planning to visit Bryce Canyon from Zion on the same day (more info about this park below). The views along this road and from Canyon Overlook are mind-blowing and well worth a long drive from Las Vegas.

How to visit Zion NP from Las Vegas

By car: Zion National Park is about 160 miles, 2.5-3 hrs drive from Las Vegas. If you drive to Zion for just a day, be sure to leave as early in the morning as possible. Ideally, you reach the park by 9 AM at the latest. Also here, you’ll need to pay the National Park entrance fee (or use your annual pass).

TIP: If you can, plan to spend at least one night near Zion. Check out our suggestions for where to stay near Zion National Park . Staying here is a must if you are planning to tackle any of the most popular hikes such as Angels Landing where you really need to be at the trailhead as early in the morning as possible if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.

With a tour: There are quite some organized tours that visit this area from Vegas . Most tours that go to Zion National Park combine a visit here with that of the nearby Bryce Canyon National Park. So you get to see two parks in one go, but beware that it will be a long day and a very short visit with a few quick photo stops. It’s definitely worth it if you only have a day, but if you can, you should really consider a multi-day tour of these beautiful parks instead of just coming for a day.

Here are some of the best day tours to Zion National Park from Las Vegas (all fees and lunch are included):

• Zion & Bryce day tour . This 13-hour tour is the most budget-friendly day trip that brings you to these two amazing parks in one day.
• Zion & Bryce small-group tour . This is the most popular day tour from Vegas that visits these two parks in a day. It only takes a maximum of 9 people, which means that less time is wasted for driving around and waiting for everyone and more for sightseeing. They start very early and maximize the time in Zion and Bryce so that you actually get to see a bit more of the parks than just the scenery through a bus window. If you’re visiting Zion and Bryce for just a day, I think this is by far the best option.

Here are some of the best multi-day national parks tours from Las Vegas:

• 2 days Zion & Bryce tour . This tour spends a day in each park and gives you an opportunity to do the most popular hike in Zion – Angels Landing. Highly recommended if you have the time!
• 3 days Antelope & Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce & Monument Valley . This is a very popular tour that visits pretty much all of the most beautiful places in the region. They have different tour packages available, from budget-friendly camping options to shared accommodation or private lodging. The itinerary is great and everything is very well organized allowing you to see all these mind-blowing places in a very short time.

9. Bryce Canyon National Park

Just 70 miles from the eastern side of Zion NP, you’ll find another nature’s wonderland, Bryce Canyon National Park . Because of their proximity, these two of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks are usually combined in one trip.

Bryce Canyon has such a unique landscape. It is known for crimson-colored hoodoos, spire-shaped irregular rock formations. Bryce Canyon area has the largest concentration of hoodoos found anywhere on Earth.

Bryce Canyon NP is pretty compact making it easy to see all of the highlights in one day. But even if you just have an hour or two, you can easily see some of the best scenery from various viewpoints.

There is an 18-mile road that runs north-south through the entire park. Be sure to stop at the four most popular overlooks in Bryce Canyon: Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point. If you are looking for a short hike, you can walk along the canyon rim or descend into the canyon below.

How to visit Bryce Canyon NP from Las Vegas

By car: Bryce Canyon NP is about 260 miles, over 4 hours drive from Las Vegas, or about 75 miles, 1h30 drive from Zion National Park. Like all of the National Parks, you can pay a $35 per vehicle fee, but if you are visiting a few of them, I highly recommend getting an America the Beautiful Pass instead.

If you are driving to Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas, you can easily explore the main viewpoints on your own. If, however, you want to do something more special or benefit of the experience of a local guide, check out these short tours that start at Bryce Canyon . There are several sightseeing tours, horseback riding, ATV tours, etc. It can be a fun way to explore Bryce Canyon and because most of these tours only take a few hours, you could easily do them on a short visit as well.

As already mentioned above, if you are planning to visit both – Zion and Bryce Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas, prepare for a very – very – long day. It’s really better to spend at least one night in the area if driving that far. If you do indeed visit Bryce Canyon for just a day all the way from Vegas, I highly recommend that you take a tour. They’ll take care of all the practicalities, entrance fees, and the driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery around you.

With a tour: All organized tours that visit Bryce Canyon National P ark from Las Vegas, also include a visit to Zion NP. Of course, if you’d take a tour to just one park, you’d have much more time for sightseeing than when you visit two parks at the same time. However, the majority of people want to get the most of their day and so all the tours now visit these two parks together. For the best 2-in-1 tours, see our suggestions for Zion above.

10. Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

If you are willing to travel yet a little farther to see some of the most incredible scenery of your life, make the trip to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend . Antelope Canyon is about 4.5-5 hours drive from the Las Vegas Strip and Horseshoe Bend is in the same area.

Antelope Canyon is one of the most famous slot canyons in the world and one of the most scenic places in the American Southwest. It is located on sacred Navajo land in Page, Arizona. The scenic canyon is split into two sections, Upper Antelope Canyon, and Lower Antelope Canyon.  

You must have a Navajo guide take you into these canyons, so if you drive on your own and want to avoid disappointment, be sure to reserve your tickets in advance (organized tours will take care of this for you). The Upper Canyon is the most popular one because it has easier access and no climbing, but the tickets are much more expensive than the Lower Canyon, and it tends to be much busier. The Lower Canyon might be a bit more challenging for older people or those with mobility limitations, but it’s usually quieter (and much cheaper to visit).

Once you are inside, you will be surrounded by rippling colorful sandstone walls. If you are lucky, you will catch a glimpse of the sunbeams popping through this gorgeous canyon – a photographer’s dream.

You don’t absolutely have to reserve in advance, but in high season, tours usually book up very quickly. So if you are already driving all the way there, it’s best to be sure that you have a ticket before you go. Here you can reserve Lower Antelope Canyon tickets and here – tickets for the Upper Antelope Canyon .

Horseshoe Bend is a gorgeous horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. If the name doesn’t sound familiar, I can almost guarantee you that you will recognize the famous view of this place from different ads, screensavers, and travel books you have seen over the years.

Horseshoe Bend is just a short drive from Antelope Canyon and the hike to the viewpoint is short and easy as well. The hike is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip and it’s an easy dirt track. So don’t miss it if visiting the area.

This is one of the most beautiful natural sights that you can see on a day trip from Las Vegas!

How to visit Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

By car: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are about 280 miles, 4.5-5 hours drive from Las Vegas. While it is possible to visit here for just a day, you can imagine that it will be a VERY long day with lots of time spent in the car. It is well worth visiting, but you might want to plan for an overnight stay in nearby Page, AZ so that you can spend as much time exploring as possible. If you have two days, take a look at our suggested itinerary for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend as well as Grand Canyon .

Good to know: Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are located in the same direction as Antelope Canyon, so if you are renting a car anyway, it’s best to make a road trip of 2-4 days visiting all these places from Las Vegas. If you have more time, you could also visit Grand Canyon on the same trip and make it a nice ‘circle’ touring all these places.

With a tour: Because Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend require such a long drive from Las Vegas, we highly recommend going with a tour if you decide to visit these places as a day trip. Tours take about 15-16 hours, but because you can rest along the way, it will not be nearly as tiring as driving all that distance on your own. Furthermore, tour guides will take care of all the tickets and practicalities so that you don’t have to waste time trying to figure out how everything works once you get to the Antelope Canyon.

Below, you can see all the best tour options, from day tours to multi-day trips that visit several of the best sights near Las Vegas. Take a look!

Here are some of the best day tours that visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas:

• Small-group day tour . This is the most popular and very highly rated tour that visits these two places as a day trip from Las Vegas. This tour visits either the Lower Antelope Canyon or Canyon X, which is lesser-known and less busy. This tour includes all entrance fees, snacks, lunch, etc. so keep this in mind if comparing to other tours that look cheaper at first sight, but usually don’t include any of this.
• Best-priced small-group tour . This highly-rated tour also visits Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend and includes entrance fees and lunch. At the moment of writing, it’s about 20% cheaper than the most popular tour mentioned above, and – in all honesty – I don’t see much difference in the itinerary, group size, or in what’s included. So definitely check this one out – it seems like the best-value Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas. This tour visits the Lower Antelope Canyon.
• Upper Antelope Canyon day tour . If you are worried about the stairs of the Lower Canyon, you may want to consider this tour instead. Taking into account that the tickets to the Upper Canyon are much more expensive than the Lower Canyon, this tour actually offers very good value for your money. Keep in mind that this is a big group tour, for the rest – it offers pretty much the same as other tours, including a small lunch and a stop at Horseshoe Bend.

Here are some of the best multi-day tours that visit Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas:

• 2 days tour . This highly-rated tour allows you to see some of the best scenery in just two days. The itinerary is well thought of, allowing you to experience a sunset at the Grand Canyon, the quietest time of the day at Horseshoe Bend, and maybe even midday light beams inside the Antelope Canyon. By doing this over two days, you spend less time in a car and more time sightseeing.
• 3 days tour . This popular and highly-rated tour visits all the most beautiful nature destinations near Las Vegas : Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce & Monument Valley. The itinerary is packed but very well organized allowing you to see all these amazing destinations in just three days. If you want to see it all and not worry about planning anything, this is a great option.
• Here you can find a complete selection of multi-day tours that – among many other amazing places – visit Antelope Canyon as well.

11. Area 51

Area 51 is a top-secret area of a government base in the middle of the Nevada desert. It was said to be used to store USA’s biggest secrets, extra-terrestrials from outer space, and alien spaceships. Others would say that is an urban legend. You be the judge.

And yes, this place really does exist. We do know that Area 51 is in the middle of nowhere about 83 miles north of Las Vegas on the edge of Groom Lake near a town called Rachel, Nevada. We indicated the location in our map at the top of this article.

It is important to know that this area is highly protected and is part of an active military base. It is NOT a tourist attraction, so if you find yourself close by do not even think about trespassing. Currently, the closest you can drive to Area 51 is about 15 miles away.  

How to visit Area 51

Don’t despair about not being able to get in! There are some nice ways to explore this unique area if you wish so:

By car: You can take an alien-themed 2.5-hour road trip down the Extraterrestrial Highway – Route 375 – and explore some of the weirdest shops, tourist attractions, and kitschy places like “Little A’Le Inn” to grab a tasty alien burger and spend the night. 

With a tour: There is also a really interesting organized day tour of Area 51 from Vegas . They take you to places that you would not easily find on your own and tell you fascinating stories that make the whole experience so much more interesting. It’s well worth taking a guided tour for this one!

12. Seven Magic Mountains

Just a short ride from the busy Las Vegas Strip stands a super colorful large-scale desert artwork from Ugo Rondinone known as the Seven Magic Mountains . Anyone driving in from LA knows that this is the landmark that you will find on the east side of Interstate 15 letting you know you are almost in Las Vegas. 

Seven Magic Mountains opened in 2016 and because of its raging success, they have agreed to let the installation remain on view through the end of 2021. However, it’s now been extended with no clear end date given. So you can still see Seven Magic Mountains near Vegas!

This exhibit is an Instagram hot spot that finds people taking selfies in front of these 7 giant stacks of super colorful boulders. It is super easy to find, you cannot miss it.  It will likely not take you longer than 15-30 minutes to enjoy the space and take your pictures. So with the drive from Vegas and back, plan on spending about 1-2 hours in total. This is not really a day trip in itself, rather a short stop on the way to the other popular tourist attractions near Las Vegas.

Good to know: There is no admission fee, it is free and open to the public year-round. 

How to get to Seven Magic Mountains from Vegas

By car: Seven Magic Mountains can be found 20 miles, 25 minutes drive south from Las Vegas. There is an on-site parking lot for cars. Despite being so close to the city, there is no public transportation available to this site, so you can only visit this popular attraction near Las Vegas by car or with a tour.

With a tour: There are no tours that visit only Seven Magic Mountains, but there are a couple of tours that go to other popular places nearby that make a short stop here .

13. Lake Mead

As you are driving in from Vegas, Lake Mead looks like a glowing oasis out in the middle of the Mojave Desert. The bright blue water will startle you as you come through the desert landscape and stumble across this giant reservoir that lies on the Colorado River.  

Lake Mead National Recreation Area has the title of America’s First National Recreation Area and it is the nation’s largest reservoir. This man-made wonder covers 248 square miles and holds approximately 325,000 gallons of water.

Lake Mead is a great place to explore year-round, and it’s often combined with a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam and/or Boulder City (see more info further below). You could easily spend an entire weekend enjoying Lake Mead, but most people just stop here shortly when touring the best sites near Las Vegas by car or with a tour.

On a short visit, be sure to at least stop at the Visitor Center and check out the crystal blue waters on your way to Hoover Dam. If you have more time, the gorgeous water gives you opportunities to explore nature, hike, swim, boat, or even go fishing. The marinas have a variety of boats for rent, pontoon boats, fishing boats, paddleboats, and sports boats.  If you bring your own boat, you will need to purchase a pass; if you are renting, the marina will supply the pass.  Here you can find more information on the best things to do at Lake Mead.

TIP: Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and extra water. There are not a lot of shady areas in Lake Mead, and it will be very hot. July and August are the hottest months.

How to visit Lake Mead as a day trip from Las Vegas

By car: Lake Mead Visitor Center is about 40 minutes drive from Las Vegas. It’s also just less than 5 miles from Hoover Dam. So you can easily combine these two places and make a nice day trip from Vegas.

With a tour: There are several tours that visit Lake Mead. The ones that combine several places in one, usually just stop here shortly (see Hoover Dam tours and Grand Canyon tours above), but there are also a few tours that allow you to explore this area deeper. Here are the best Lake Mead tours from Las Vegas:

• Lake Mead ATV tour . This 6-hour tour includes a pick-up/drop-off at your Las Vegas hotel, a 3-hour ATV ride on the most beautiful trails along Lake Mead, a few photo stops, a chance to go for a swim (in summer), and lunch at a local restaurant. This is a fun adventurous day trip from Las Vegas, far from the crowds.
• Boulder Islands on Lake Mead (water tour) . This 3-hour tour is perfect for those visiting Las Vegas in the warmest months and looking to escape into nature for a short while. You have an option to explore Lake Mead on a kayak, paddleboard, or by hydrobike. This short tour includes a hotel pick-up/drop-off and runs in the morning or in the evening, making it easy to combine it with other activities, even if you only have limited time in Vegas.

14. Nelson Ghost Town & Eldorado Canyon

Nelson Ghost Town is located near Eldorado Canyon at the historic Techatticup Mine , less than an hour drive from the Las Vegas Strip. The drive in itself is very scenic and it’s well worth checking out, especially if you are looking for more unique places to visit near Las Vegas.

This ‘ghost town’ has some old buildings, a general store, vintage cars, old airplanes, and a historic mine. Nowadays, it’s a tourist attraction with lots of photo opportunities.

You will feel like you are having a showdown in the wild wild west as you walk through this cool town. This Eldorado Canyon area is home to many photoshoots, movie sets, a BBQ area, and even a wedding chapel if you are thinking about tying the knot outlaw style! 

The Techatticup Mine is the oldest and richest in Southern Nevada and you can visit inside the mine with a walking tour that takes a bit longer than 1 hour. Reservations are required ( see their website for more info ). This tour is highly recommended and will set the stage for the historical value of this unique western gem.

Good to know: If you are not interested in a mine tour, you can just opt to explore the town on your own. If you want to just walk around and take pictures, it costs $10 (for your entire group), so be sure to check-in at the office and pay the fee.

How to visit Nelson Ghost Town

By car: Nelson Ghost Town is located about 45 miles southeast of Las Vegas. It takes about 45-60 minutes to drive there. It’s in the same direction as Boulder City (and so also Hoover Dam and Lake Mead), so you can easily make a day trip visiting several of these places at the same time.

With a tour: If you don’t have a rental car, you can visit Eldorado Canyon and Nelson Ghost Town with organized tours. Some of them include a mine visit as well. If you are feeling more adventurous (and don’t mind a higher price tag) check out this 4X4 tour .

Good to know: You can visit Nelson Ghost Town the whole year round, every day except Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and they close at noon on Christmas Eve.

15. Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave Desert is huge and stretches from southeastern California, into southern Nevada. Other small areas extend out into Utah and Arizona. The Mojave National Preserve is located within that desert in San Bernardino County in sunny California, just 1-hour drive from Las Vegas. You could easily drive in, explore for a few hours and be back on the strip later that night.

When driving down I-15 between Las Vegas and LA, there is a long stretch of road that will take you through this unique desert preserve. Be sure to fill your gas tank before getting on the road, there is only one gas station (with sky-high prices) in that area.

It might seem like a desolate place to visit, but there is a ton to do. Explore the massive sand dunes, Joshua Trees, ancient lava flows, hiking trails, or go horseback riding. Be sure to stop at the visitor’s center to pick up a map and ask for recommendations.  

Some of the must-sees of the Mojave National Preserve include Kelso Dunes, Mitchell Caverns, and a hike to the top of Teutonia Peak for some spectacular panoramic views.   

Be sure to bring plenty of water, and then bring some more!  Sunscreen, a hat, and some snacks should also be packed. If you visit during the summer months be extra cautious about the heat, temperatures get to over 100°F here.

How to visit Mojave National Preserve

The easiest way to visit Mojave National Preserve is by car. It’s about 60 miles, 1 hour drive south of Las Vegas. If you are interested in driving the backcountry roads you will need 4-wheel drive vehicles that must be street-legal according to the California DMV. Driving is only allowed on existing open dirt roads.

I didn’t find any tours visiting this area, so you’ll need a rental car for this one. For more information and things to do, please see the official website.

16. Boulder City

Boulder City is a small town that sits next to Lake Mead and next to the giant Hoover Dam. You can easily access all three of these attractions within an hour of the Las Vegas Strip. If you want to make the most of your time, you can easily visit all three places in a day. And since they are so close to each other, it doesn’t even require much advance planning. 

Boulder City is not a city at all, rather a small western town with its unique personality and a lot more to do than it looks at first sight. You could drive through in just 15 minutes or spend a few hours, get lunch and explore all of the little nooks in and around this cool town; it’s up to you.  

Boulder City is a great place to visit year-round and has good parking and great local shops and restaurants. Be sure to stop at the Boulder Dam Brewing Company for some live music, delicious food, cold brew, and unique décor – thousands of pounds of equipment used to construct Hoover Dam adorns the beer garden and dining area. You can also do some antique shopping at the Boulder City Antique Market or Sherman’s House of Antiques.

TIP: If you are just passing by Boulder City, be sure to stop at Hemenway Park . It’s a great place for nice views of Lake Mead and you can often see bighorn sheep grazing here as well.

How to visit Boulder City from Las Vegas

By car: Boulder City is about 30 minutes drive from Las Vegas. From Boulder City, it’s just a short drive to Lake Mead or Hoover Dam.

With a tour: Most tours that visit Hoover Dam just shortly pass Boulder City and don’t really stop in town. The majority of tours visiting this area focus on the activities nearby. One of the best tours you can take is a kayak expedition on the Colorado River and see Hoover Dam from another angle or go kayaking in the nearby Black Canyon .

17. Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu, AZ, has 400 miles of stunning coastline, 300 days of sunshine, and 60 miles of navigable waterways. This makes it one of the most popular weekend getaways from Vegas for the locals. Lake Havasu is a watersport haven for swimming, fishing, and boating. It has several boat ramps, dozens of campsites, a picnic area, and a beach area. You could enjoy it just for the day or stay longer. 

A big surprise for those that visit this Arizona hot spot, is that just 2 miles away from the gates of the Lake Havasu State Park stands an iconic piece of history… London Bridge!  Yes, THAT London Bridge! It was rebuilt in Lake Havasu in 1971 and is the second-largest tourist draw in Arizona. Don’t miss it!

A visit here is very different than most other destinations mentioned in this article. It’s not that much about sightseeing, rather a relaxing day by the water. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and a towel!

How to visit Lake Havasu from Las Vegas

By car: Lake Havasu is located in western Arizona just outside of San Bernadino County. It’s about 150 miles, 2.5 hours drive south of Las Vegas. The lake has a big protected area – Lake Havasu State Park – that is open year-round. It will cost you $20 per vehicle on weekends and holidays and $15 on Monday thru Thursday. 

With a tour: If you are looking to visit Lake Havasu and swim under the London Bridge, there is a really nice tour that not only visits this area but includes much more. This 12-hour tour also takes you right down Route 66, visits a ghost town, includes a jet boat ride on the Colorado River that goes to the Topic Gorge. It’s a great fun day trip from Las Vegas that you will also enjoy in the summer.

So, this is our list of some of the most popular day trips and places to visit near Las Vegas. As you can see, not only can you have a top-notch vacation in Las Vegas itself, but there is so much to do nearby.

The unique landscape of the southwest U.S. is a special place to explore and to see so many stunning nature destinations. And while taking some of these day trips from Las Vegas might be quite costly, it will keep you away from the craps tables for a day. 😉

TIP: If you are looking for some more ideas for places to see near Las Vegas and a more off the beaten path experience, you may want to check out Gold Butte National Monument . It’s also just a few hours drive from Las Vegas, but it requires a 4×4, and ideally, you plan an entire day here, so it’s best to stay nearby for two nights.

Visiting Las Vegas and the surroundings? Check out these guides:

• Best things to do in Las Vegas
• First-timer’s guide and tips for visiting Las Vegas
• Las Vegas in one day (itinerary)

More travel tips for the southwestern USA:

• Best things to do in Sedona
• Phoenix – Scottsdale Itinerary
• Grand Canyon day trip
• Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon – Horseshoe Bend itinerary
• Sedona day trip
• Best hikes in Zion National Park
• Zion to Bryce Canyon Drive & Itinerary
• Monument Valley Scenic Drive
• Best things to do in Arches National Park
• Best things to do in Canyonlands National Park
• Things to do in Moab
• Los Angeles 3-day itinerary
• Tips for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood
• Warner Bros vs. Universal Studios – comparison
• San Diego itinerary

READ ALSO: Best Places to Visit in Arizona

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Image credits: Depositphotos.com

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 25th of April 2021

Thanks for all the info about and around las Vegas. Very nice pictures too.

Friday 30th of April 2021

Have a great trip, Dan!

15 Best Las Vegas Tours and Day Trips from Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

The Best Area 51 Tour from Las Vegas, Nevada

The Best Tour to Death Valley from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas

The Best One-Day Tour from Las Vegas to Hollywood

The Best Valley of Fire Tour from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas

5 Best Tours to Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas

6 Best Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas in 2024

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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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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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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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Nevada (NV) » 15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

The undisputed home of extravagance and entertainment, Las Vegas is the city that features on the bucket list of travellers of every variety.

It may be an oasis of entertainment in the heart of the Nevada desert but away from the bright lights and bustling casinos there is a wealth of natural wonders to explore.

The exhilaration of Las Vegas can be exhausting and a day trip into the great outdoors can provide a welcome balance to travellers to Sin City.

Here are 15 day trips from Las Vegas that offer the full spectrum of sights in Nevada.

1. Grand Canyon

Arguably the Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive natural vistas in the world.

A day trip to the Grand Canyon sees you cross state lines into Northern Arizona, ticking off another of the 50-states from your USA bucket list.

Spanning a staggering 277 miles the Grand Canyon has been etched into the earth by the Colorado River and is still a work in progress.

The land has been naturally eroded away by the course of the river over millions of years and will continue to forever.

You can start hikes from the visitor’s centre and here you can seek advice as to which trail suits you best.

2. Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire is one of Nevada’s most iconic natural wonders.

Picture perfect in every way the Valley of Fire is home to native Indian petroglyphs that it is believed to date back over 3,000 years.

These perfectly preserved rock carvings give incredible insights in to the lives of our ancestors.

At the Valley of Fire visitors centre you can learn more about these relics before heading out to see them for yourself.

A true geographical wonder the Valley of Fire is an awe-inspiring day trip from Las Vegas.

Be warned, temperatures can soar to 120F, ensure you stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

3. Death Valley National Park

Named Death Valley for good reason, Death Valley National Park is one of the driest and hottest places on earth.

Experiencing the harshness of the environment gives visitors an appreciation for the elements, especially water.

A day trip to this national park is not complete without visiting Furnace Creek, Badwater and Zabriskie Point.

During a day trip to Death Valley you can visit eerie and desolate Rhyolite, a ghost town left in the wake of the Gold Rush.

Intriguing and incredibly hot, Death Valley is a sight to behold.

Charge your camera for Death Valley is the perfect place for panoramic shots.

4. Hoover Dam

In a State filled with natural wonders it is only appropriate that man too would have left his mark on the land.

If you thought Las Vegas was an impressive man made feat in the middle of the Nevada desert then you will be suitably be in awe of the Hoover Dam.

Taking over five years to build and requiring constant maintenance the Hoover Dam created the largest reservoir in the United States of America.

Holding a staggering 28.9 million acre-feet of water the capacity of the Hoover Dam is almost incomprehensible.

Tours of the Dam complex and neighbouring power plant are offered throughout the day.

As one of the most mysterious places in the world Area 51 is the perfect day trip from Las Vegas for the ever curious traveller, conspiracy theorists and military enthusiasts.

A trip to Area 51 is a rare opportunity to visit the world’s most secretive military facility.

Of course, day visitors don’t get the same kind of access as the real life Men in Black nor do you get to read the active X Files but there is plenty to explore.

Drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway to Little A’le’inn.

Having been the backdrop for countless documentaries and drama series there’s plenty to get the mind wandering at Area 51.

6. Red Rock Canyon

There are a whole host of impressive canyons within a day trip from Las Vegas including the first national conservation area to be implemented in Nevada, Red Rock Canyon.

Being one of the most accessible day trips from Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon lies just 17-miles south of the city centre.

Whether you choose to explore Red Rock Canyon on electric bicycle, on horseback or on foot, a trip to this beautiful canyon is the one of the highlights of the Mojave Desert.

In the Red Rock National Conservation area you’ll also find the gorgeous red and cream Calico Hills.

7. Bryce Canyon

Venturing into Bryce Canyon installed a feeling of sheer wonderment in all who visit.

Featuring extraordinary natural geographical formations of red rock Bryce Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes in Nevada.

Let your imagination run wild and see if you can see castles, battlements and ruins of city walls in the red rocks.

Many people say that they can see faces in the rock too.

Bryce Canyon is a simply stunning landscape that provides a delightful contrast to the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Teaming Bryce Canyon with a trip to Zion National Park is a popular combination day trip from Las Vegas.

8. Zion National Park

A destination in its own right Zion National Park is one of the more versatile landscapes accessible from Las Vegas.

Deep gorges are carpeted with greenery unlike the stark, raw landscapes found in other canyons surrounding Las Vegas.

Home to a vast array of flora and fauna Zion National Park falls within the state lines of Utah.

Another opportunity to tick another US state, if you’re counting that is.

An inspiring muse for artists, photographers, writers and more, Zion National Park is remembered fondly by all who visit.

9. Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon

Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon is a field day for adrenaline junkies.

Best explored by ATV the Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon trail is a great day trip from Las Vegas for fun loving, active travellers.

The Techatticup Gold Mine was Nevada’s biggest working mine in its hay day and the Eldorado Canyon was home to more people than modern day Las Vegas.

Exploring the Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon by ATV is a fun and memorable way to learn about the rich history of Nevada’s gold mining industry.

10. Mount Tipton Wilderness Area

For travellers seeking to get off the beaten track in their day trip from Las Vegas the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is an easily accessible option.

Located in Mohave County this Wilderness Area spans over 30,000 acres and Mount Tipton towers over the stark landscape at 7,148ft.

Best explored on foot or on horseback the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is something of a hidden gem.

Perfect for rock climbing the Mount Tipton Wilderness Area is a paradise for the intrepid traveller.

Home to herds of wild mustangs Mount Tipton is one of Arizona’s best kept secrets.

11. Los Angeles & Hollywood

For many people a visit to Los Angeles is entirely separate to a trip to Las Vegas but it need not.

Lying just 4 hours away, Los Angeles is an easy, direct day trip from Las Vegas.

In the space of a day in the City of Angels you can visit Beverly Hills, drive down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and get that all important photo with the Hollywood sign.

Having had your fill of life in the desert be sure to take a stroll along the beachside boardwalks of LA before returning to Las Vegas.

Book online: From Las Vegas: VIP Los Angeles/Hollywood Day Trip

12. Lake Mead

Offering a welcome contrast to the Nevada Desert, Lake Mead itself is best explored by traditional paddle wheel boat.

Best experienced in the evening time you can jump aboard the Desert Princess and be wined and dined as you glide across the calm waters of Lake Mead.

Lake Mead provides a relaxing and peaceful day trip from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area, however, should be explored during the day time and has a number of scenic walking trails that curve around the lake shores.

The perfect way to spend the day before boarding the Desert Princess before sunset.

Suggested tour : Lake Mead National Park ATV Tour

13. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Lying just half an hour from the centre of Las Vegas lies Nevada’s most significant Petroglyph site.

Featuring over 300 panels of etchings in the canyon’s red rock, the site has 2,000 different depictions.

Meticulously managed to preserve these ancient Petroglyphs visitors to Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area are implored to stick to the trails.

Away from the ancestral artistry the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area features dusty lake beds, giant rock towers and of course, picture perfect expanses of desert.

14. Dixie National Forest

Spanning across 8,000 km² the Dixie National Forest is a great day trip from Las Vegas for nature enthusiasts and travellers who want to tick off as many US states as possible.

Dixie National Forest lies in Utah and occupies the land between the Colorado River and the Great Basin.

Keep an eye out for the vast array of wildlife that supports the precious Dixie National Forest ecosystem.

Home to cougar, bobcat and the Utah prairie dog, should you be patient enough you may just spot these rare mammals.

Bird lovers should look out for blue grouse, wild turkey and golden eagles.

15. Mount Charleston

With a wonderful selection of canyons and deserts to explore in day trips from Las Vegas, Mount Charleston offers travellers contrasting landscape to enjoy.

Located just 45-minutes away from the Las Vegas strip, Mount Charleston is snow capped in the winter making it ideal for sledding and skiing.

Quite the contrast indeed from the sweltering heat of Las Vegas.

For travellers who are keen to experience the incredibly versatility of western USA from a base of Las Vegas Mount Charleston is the perfect day trip.

15 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas:

• Grand Canyon
• Valley of Fire
• Death Valley National Park
• Red Rock Canyon
• Bryce Canyon
• Zion National Park
• Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon
• Mount Tipton Wilderness Area
• Los Angeles & Hollywood
• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area
• Dixie National Forest
• Mount Charleston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

18 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

1. valley of fire state park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Red Rock Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Mount Charleston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Seven Magic Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Sloan Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Hoover Dam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Lake Mead

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Eldorado Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Mojave Desert

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Area 51

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

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

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

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

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

11. Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Zion National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Bryce Canyon National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. Dixie National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

Grand Canyon South Rim

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

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

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

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

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

Grand Canyon West Rim

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

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

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

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

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

17. Antelope Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Horseshoe Bend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of the Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

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

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

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

Planning a trip to Nevada?

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

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

Valley of Fire State Park:

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

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

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13 BEST Things to Do in Las Vegas in Winter

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Exploring Death Valley, visiting the Grand Canyon, ice skating at The Cosmopolitan – these are the best things to do in Las Vegas in winter!

Most winter travel blogs will have you wandering down Christmas markets sipping mulled wine.

They’ll have you getting goosebumps beneath your jumper, fingers going numb from the snow as you cup it in your hands to throw. But this isn’t like most travel blogs. And Las Vegas isn’t like most winter destinations.

That doesn’t mean for one second you should discount Las Vegas in winter. I’d actually argue it’s one of the best times to visit. And I’m about to tell you why.

First of all, for the more traditional winter travellers among us, no one does a party like Vegas. It’s one of the things the States is famous for. And that means the holiday celebrations are out in full force, with events and decorative displays all along the city.

Secondly, Las Vegas is located in a beyond brilliant location for outdoor activities: hiking, road trips, the lot.

But in the summer, Nevada (and neighbouring California) are so hot that it can be hard to actually get out into the National Parks and explore. In winter, it’s much milder, and the country opens up for travellers to explore.

So, hang onto your hats and keep reading. We’re going to get into the best things to do this winter in Vegas. I really hope this article helps plan your trip here – I promise you this is such a good time of year to visit!

If you’re heading to San Deigo, then make sure you check out my guide on the best day trips from San Deigo !

Weather in Las Vegas in Winter

The winter weather in Las Vegas isn’t quite what you’d expect from the movies and media. December is the month you’ll find the coldest temperatures with highs of just 15°C (59°F) and lows of -3°C (26.6°F). 

January is similar, with the average day sitting between -2°C (28.4°F) and 15°C (59°F). 

Things pick up a bit in February though with slightly warmer temperatures starting at 1°C (33.8°F) and creeping up to a more favourable 19°C (66.2°F). Throughout the season, expect just one to two days of rain per month.

Things to do in Las Vegas in winter

See the bellagio conservatory and botanical gardens lit up for christmas.

It might not feel traditionally festive in the middle of the desert, but it will once you head to the Bellagio. In December, its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas lights, decorative displays, a towering tree and even fake snow. 

This year’s display is starting on the 2nd December until early January – check it out if your trip coincides!

Head to Red Rock Canyon for hiking

So, the desert is weird. For most destinations, hiking and general outdoor adventures are something I can only recommend in the summer. In Vegas, it’s the opposite.

In the summer the searing sun and soaring temperatures mean hiking can be genuinely dangerous, especially for the inexperienced.

The winter is generally a much better time to explore, so I really recommend heading to Red Rock Canyon this time of year: much more hiking trails will be doable (lots of good suggestions here ), and it’s just as beautiful so it’s ideal for photography too. Alternatively, if you’d prefer, take a guided tour so someone can show you all the top sights.

Or explore Death Valley

Death Valley is a bucket list destination in itself, and if you’re in Las Vegas in winter you’ve got the perfect opportunity to visit. Like Red Rock Canyon, the temperatures are much lower, so a trip will be more tolerable. 

You can easily do a day trip to Death Valley. You won’t be able to see everything – you’re about a two hour drive away in Vegas – but you can catch the highlights. Some of the sights I’d recommend seeing include Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

If you don’t want to rent a car and drive, book a guided tour instead so that everything is taken care for you.

Watch the Christmas tree lighting at Fremont Street

No trip to Vegas is complete without a trip to Fremont Street in general, but visiting in the festive season is a proper treat. This year’s tree lighting is on the 6th December (it’s also the Las Vegas Christmas tree, not just any old one), but even if you can’t make the exact date, there’s tons of festivities and celebrations throughout the month.

Spend a day ice skating at The Cosmopolitan

The hotels on the Las Vegas strip really come into their own in winter. There are few better examples of this than The Cosmopolitan. Each year, its Boulevard Pool transforms into a sprawling ice rink. It’s magical and atmospheric, especially with its periodic snow showers and views to the strip. You certainly won’t feel like you’re in Nevada by the end of it.

Enjoy the snow at Lee Canyon

One thing you might not expect about winter in Vegas is that there are some pretty great places to enjoy snow sports.

I’m talking specifically about Lee Canyon . Located in the Spring Mountains, an hour’s drive from Vegas, its sheer elevation means it’s one of the few places in Nevada that see snow. It’s perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying the wintery views.

Get a sweet treat at Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory

Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory is another one of the Las Vegas winter activities you don’t want to miss. If you like the sweet stuff, it’s a hit all-year-round, but it’s extra special at Christmas.

See the Christmas light display, wander around a cactus garden draped in festive lights and decor, and enjoy some seasonal chocolate tasting.

Or get your adrenaline pumping at LINQ Promenade

Even if you’ve not been to Vegas before, I’m sure you’ve heard of LINQ Promenade . The High Roller Observation Wheel and the zipline are both fairly famous, especially the zipline. Mainly because it’s terrifying – you’re flying through the air 12 storeys up.

Visiting in December? You’ll get the added bonus of festive vibes and holiday lights.

See a Las Vegas show

Another thing Vegas is famous for is the shows, of course. I highly recommend seeing one while you’re in the city. There’s all sorts: from Cirque du Soleil to cabaret to concerts, so make sure to have a look at what’s on during your trip. Keep in mind that if you’re around in the lead up to Christmas, there will be holiday-themed shows on too.

Take in the view from the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most extraordinary sights in the whole of the US – it’s also one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas. Yep, even in winter.

From Vegas, it’s a 4-hour drive to the South Rim, and 2 hours to the West Rim, so it depends how intense a day you want. You can break up the day by seeing some other sights: the famous Hoover Dam or slices of Route 66.

If you don’t feel like driving there are lots of tours you can take to the South Rim or West Rim (you can even take a helicopter to the latter).

Or check out 4000-year-old rock formations in Valley of Fire State Park

Just like Red Rock Canyon and Death Valley, Valley of Fire State Park is generally much more comfortable to explore in the winter. Only 45 minutes from the city, this state park is home to petrified trees and 4000-year-old rock formations and Native American petroglyphs.

With the cooler temperatures, there are more hikes you can enjoy for longer. Plus, fewer crowds make it easier to have a picnic or take photos of the rich desert colours. It’s no problem if you don’t drive either – you can take a guided tour .

Go kayaking at Emerald Caves

Have you noticed how many of the best Las Vegas winter activities are outside? It’s a real novelty – especially since that includes water sports, too.

In winter, Nevada temperatures aren’t cold enough that kayaking is out of the question. Good thing, too, as that means you’d miss out on kayaking up the Colorado River to Emerald Caves. For this one, I recommend booking a tour – a local guide will be able to teach you loads about the local area, keeping you safe and on-route.

Do a holiday tour of the Las Vegas strip

A classic Las Vegas winter activity has to be taking a holiday tour of the strip. Fairly well known as a land of indulgence, the festive decor is no exception, and the Las Vegas hotels tend to go all out with Christmas trees, lights and decorations. Plus, these aren’t ordinary hotels – there’s tons to do from grabbing a drink, getting a bite to eat, or browsing in shops.

Where to stay in Las Vegas in winter

Luxury: bellagio.

If you’re already visiting the Bellagio for the festive display, why not spend the night? 

One of the famous hotels that dominate the strip, no expense is spared at the Bellagio. The rooms are ornate and beautifully decorated, complete with marble bathrooms. Plus, it’s not just the Conservatory you’ve got for entertainment: marvel at the Fountains of Bellagio, wander through the lush botanical gardens, or grab a bite at one of the three on-site restaurants.

Mid-range: The Mirage

Warm temperatures in Las Vegas and winter mean it’s a fine time to still enjoy the tropical refuge that is The Mirage. Seriously – it’s even got its own unique dolphin and wild animal habitat on-site (as well as a lava-flowing volcano replica). And while it might be a bit too chilly for a dip in the pool, there’s nothing stopping you from making use of the casino, spa, or one of the many restaurants, bars and lounges.

Budget: Desert Club Resort

If you’ve got a packed out trip to Vegas in the pipeline, you probably want to save those pennies. Luckily, that doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your creature comforts. Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort has everything you need: comfortable bedrooms, a bar and grill for convenient eats, plus fully equipped fitness centres and hot tubs for you to unwind in.

Heading to Las Vegas this winter? Let me know your plans in the comments below!

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About the Author

Georgie Cunningham is a freelance content writer and strategist based in Bristol. When she’s not writing (or thinking about) content, she’s writing fiction, travelling, or chasing after her crazy cocker spaniel, Cosmo.

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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.

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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

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

Valley of Fire

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

Nick Rains/Getty Images

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

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

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

Horseshoe Bend

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

Death Valley National Park

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

Willow Beach

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

Zion National Park

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.

Las Vegas Day Trips By Car: 19 Fun & Affordable Locations

Adventure Travel , Budget Travel , Nevada , Weekend Getaways

Away from the glistening lights and casinos is a whole world waiting to be discovered. All of the Las Vegas day trips by car mentioned in this guide are short and sweet, affordable, and fun!

For most of my life, travel urges had to be satisfied with cheap trips. Limited funds forced me to get creative and search surrounding areas that were affordable and satisfying enough to hold me over until the one big vacation per year.

I’m grateful, because I may have never discovered these gems. Like many people, I too took where I lived for granted. That’s why I urge you to get out and discover your backyard.

Psst…I have a guide on how to plan a staycation .

Las Vegas attracts millions of people annually, many only visiting The Strip. While this is a unique part of the city, I encourage you to spend time exploring the areas both off The Strip and outside the city. Rent a car and hit the road, Jack.

“What is there to do outside of Las Vegas?”

Outside of Las Vegas is a world of adventures such as Grand Canyon West, Boulder City, Zion National Park, and more. In this post, I’m going to cover not one but 19 various day trips from Las Vegas with round trip distance calculated from the city center. We will discuss the following:

Best places to rent a car in Las Vegas

Road trip essentials, best day trips based on interest and season, overnight stay options.

Estimated costs are at the very least a tank of gas and snacks making this a budget-friendly adventure.

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Let’s wander where the wifi is weak

Rental Cars in Las Vegas

Unless you drove to town or live here, you will need a rental car. My go-to site for all my road trips is RentalCars.com . They have the largest selection for good (and new) cars at great prices. If you don’t want to book in advance than most of the hotels should have rental car counters. If not, you can go to the McCarran Rental Car Center.

Can I rent a car in Vegas at 21?

Yes. You can rent a car under the age of 25 with a valid drivers license and credit card. They will just charge an extra fee. To know more you will have to contact the rental car company directly.

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Dante’s View Death Valley

Road Trip Essentials for a Day Trip

Here are my recommended road trip essentials. I’m talking to you co-pilot. This is mainly your job.

Spare gas: While I never ran into the issue of not being able to make it to a gas station, it’s best to play it safe and bring a spare jug of gas. Remember you are in the middle of the desert (i.e. Death Valley). If you run out of gas, it could be a long time before the sight of anyone or a gas station, not to mention, limited cell reception.

Music playlists: music is essential for road trips. i love making playlists on spotify and apple music. you are bound to find old school eminem, emo rock and taylor swift on my playlist, and these days, a few podcasts., ch argin g cord : this is the exact one i use all the time. it’s nylon braided and doesn’t break on the end, unlike the cheap plastic ones., a uxillary cord : if you’re renting a car without bluetooth capability you will need at the very least, an auxiliary cord to use., snacks and tons of water: i bring my thermoflask and camelback buy large jugs of water to refill it., road atlas : go retro and grab a paper map. they can always be found at truck stops. at the very least, screenshots for when you lose cell signal and google maps decides to stop working, camera: my most recent camera is the canon m50 mirrorless . it’s lightweight and perfect for carrying around. for my complete and growing list of equipment check out my photography & video equipment list., change of clothes for the car ride home: after being outside all day i don’t smell the best. my hair and clothes smell like dirt and sweat. no one wants to ride home like that. i usually change into comfy clothes for the car ride home., blankets to cover the seats: this is more so if you’re taking your car. this makes the clean up easier. let the dirt sit on the blankets and less on your seat. if you are super ocd then grab these car seat covers instead..

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Boulder City is just a short drive from Las Vegas. Here you will find adorable mom and pop shops and The Coffee Cup. A restaurant made famous for its appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Top 10 Las Vegas Day Trips By Car

These are my top 10 favorite things to do outside of Las Vegas. The places I’ve enjoyed the most and often revisit.

1. Boulder City & Hoover Dam

A great place if you’re interested in vintage shops, locally made goods, and small-town vibes. Since Boulder City is “the city that built the dam”, you have to make sure you stop in passing for a look at the Hoover Dam.

Total Travel Time: 1 hour

2. Death Valley National Park

Nowhere else around Las Vegas can you experience the magic, heat, and unexplainable wonder of Death Valley. It’s a remarkable place with tons of hiking and driving trails.

Total Travel Time: 4 hours

3. Grand Canyon West

Check a big item off your bucket list and visit the Grand Canyon.

Distance: 4 hours 15 minute

4. Valley of Fire

Come for incredible hikes, scenic drives, and Instagram-worthy photo spots.

Total Travel Time: 3 hours

5. Nelsons Ghost Town

A short and sweet trip for photography lovers especially.

Total Travel Time: 1.5 hours

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6. Pahrump Valley Winery

For vino lovers looking to bottle their own wine while exploring small-town life in the desert.

Total Travel Time: 2.5 hours

7. ET Highway

If you enjoy cruising while taking in the views from the seat of your car. The E.T. highway sign is decked out with dozens of stickers and magnets. Be sure to join in and leave your mark.

Total Travel Time: 3.5 hours

8. Laughlin, Nevada

Getaway to Laughlin for fewer casino crowds and water activities on the Colorado River. Home to the popular River Regatta.

9. Lake Mead

Come here for diving, cliff jumping, fishing or simply spend the day floating around soaking up the (hot) sun.

10. Mount Charleston

Swap city and desert life for a cooling day in the mountains. Mount Charleston has dining, lodging, and recreational activities catering to all seasonal interests.

Day Trips From Las Vegas in Winter

Don’t let the desert fool you. There are great winter spots around. Vegas might not be a popular winter destination, but a short drive away, you can find snow and lodges to get cozy over some hot cocoa (with marshmallows please).

Valley of Fire

Enjoy cooler temps at the valley of fire.

The name may represent the red rock formations but the temperatures can often feel like fire on the skin. It’s so hot in the dead of summer. No one should ever be here in the middle of summer. Instead, come during winter to enjoy the much cooler temperatures. You will want to wear something cool and windproof. My favorite windbreaker jacket is this one .

Gold Strike Hot Springs

These hot springs got nice and warm for you during summer making it a perfect winter getaway. Unfortunately, the National Park Service temporarily shut this area down due to many accidents but I’m leaving it on the list just in case they reopen with new safety measures.

Total Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Mary Jane Falls hike in Mount Charleston

Get Cozy and Hit the Slopes at Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston would be fun to go sip hot chocolate in the lodge by the fire, build a snowman and/or visit the Lee Canyon Ski Resort. Make sure to try their famous Sasquatch Burger.

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Day Hiking Trips From Las Vegas

Hiking is very popular around here. I remember listening to a stand-up comedian (I wish I remember his name) who said, “I love hiking because turns out, hiking is just walking”. I was laughing because it’s so true. Yet, hiking is good for burning fat. Kill two birds with one stone, that is fitness and travel, with a day hiking trip from Las Vegas.

Seeing as you will be hiking in the desert, you will want to make sure you are up before dawn to make it before it gets too hot. Please read my hiking safety tips guide to ensure you are fully prepared. Total mom moment right there, but I love ya’ll and can’t have you out in the desert dehydrated AF.

  View this post on Instagram   Tank is far more impressed by all this clover than he is by the majestic cliffs of Zion. Come see us today at the Springdale Earth Day Festival from 1-6! A post shared by Red Cliffs Desert Reserve (@redcliffsreserve) on Apr 20, 2019 at 11:19am PDT

Saint George and Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Located north of St. George, Utah, this scenic reserve was created to protect the endangered desert tortoise, but please don’t be disrespectful. Let them live their life and appreciate their cuteness from a distance. There are strict rules against this to protect wildlife.

Like many areas in the Southwest, it’s hot in the summer and bone-chilling cold in the winter. It’s always the wind that does it. That said, I recommend visiting in the spring to enjoy the wildflowers or fall to enjoy the perfect temperatures. The most popular spots are the Red Cliff Nature Trail.

Total Travel Time: 5 hours

The Upsidedown or Valley of Fire?

Valley of Fire again makes the list because of the many hiking trails with the following being the most popular: Rainbow Vista, Elephant Rock, White Domes

Red Rock Canyon

Known for the red sandstone peaks, Red Rock is a geological favorite among hikers and 100% worth visiting. They have a 12-mile scenic drive through the park, or you can choose from one of many hikes – ranging easy to difficult. My favorites are Calico Tanks and Turtlehead Peak.

For a complete list of all the hikes and trails at Red Rock Canyon click here .

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Dante’s View Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is the driest and hottest national parks in the country. It’s also the lowest point in America at 282 feet below sea level. This may not be the best words to describe Death Valley but the magnificent beauty and mystery outweigh the extreme climate.

My recommendation would be driving to Dante’s View followed by sunset at Zabriskie Point. Death Valley is massive! These are going to be your best spots to experience the park and get home at a decent hour.

Half-Day Trips from Las Vegas

If you want to get away but don’t want to be gone ALL DAY LONG then here are some great half-day trips. A short distance from the city center with ample time to see it all.

Lake Las Vegas. Close to Vegas but feels like a world away. Leave Vegas and feel as though you just landed in Italy.

Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is what I like to call the red-headed stepchild of Vegas. Great and under-appreciated. It is getting more attention though with various dining options, wine bars, shops, and activities opening up. They host many events including movie nights on the lake. Be sure to grab your raft and popcorn.

Spring Mountain Ranch

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Red Rock’s neighbor and a nice escape from the city. I’ve had multiple picnics here, afternoon hikes, and yes, even my Christmas photos. I may or may not have brought an artificial tree to this park, decorated it, and set up my tripod for a festive Instagram picture . Of course, it was not cold that day but I made the best of it.

7 Magic Mountain (Left) Dry Lake Beds (Right)

Seven Magic Mountains and Jean Dry Lake Beds

I love this area. Seven Magic Mountains is known all over Instagram. The rock sculptures are so cool. Right down the road are the Dry Lake Beds. One of my favorite places to watch the sunset. Both spots are great photo locations.

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Camping Trips from Las Vegas

These trips can be done as a day trip or weekend getaway. Depending on how much time you are willing to sacrifice I recommend at least 1 overnight stay at these camping spots.

  View this post on Instagram   We often get asked about the best stargazing areas in the park. You don’t have to search far! The view from the comfort of your campsite is probably out of this world. ⛺️ Photo by @somewheresierra #joshuatreenationalpark #nightsky #camping A post shared by Joshua Tree National Park (@joshuatreenps) on May 22, 2019 at 8:53am PDT

Joshua Tree National Park

A desert gem filled with unique trees, wildlife and some of the best stargazing spots around. Joshua Trees (the famed trees) average lifespan is 150 years old, but some have been claimed to live much, much longer. Guess that’s what happens when there is little threat. There is a ton to see at this park, but the best thing, in my opinion, is looking up at the night sky and seeing the milky way galaxy. That’s why I recommend staying overnight.

The most adorable hotels in the state park are The Castle House Estate , Hicksville Trailer Palace , and Made in the Shade .

Total Travel Time: 7 hours

Estimated cost: $300

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  View this post on Instagram   “If you know wilderness in the way that you know love, you would be unwilling to let it go…. This is the story of our past and it will be the story of our future.” -Terry Tempest Williams • Happy National Wilderness Month! Zion National Park consists of 148,732 acres and 84% of that is designated as wilderness. Wilderness is defined as a natural environment that has not been significantly modified by human activity. • There are many ways to interact with nature, from going camping to taking a hike to watching a sunrise or sunset. What are some things that you do to enjoy the great outdoors? • If you want to learn more about Zion National Park’s wilderness areas, go to: https://www.nps.gov/zion/learn/nature/zion-wilderness.htm • #Zion #nationalpark #wilderness #nationalwildernessmonth A post shared by Zion National Park (@zionnps) on Sep 1, 2019 at 8:22am PDT

Zion National Park

Zion is the first national park in Utah and home to the scariest hike in America, Angel’s Landing. Would you dare? The last half mile is incredibly narrow. Hikers have to hold on to a chain bridge as they ascend to the top. Those who survive will be met with views overlooking the entire park. Angel’s Landing can take a few hours to complete depending on how busy the trail is. After you complete this hike, I recommend checking out The Narrows.

The best hotels in Zion are Zion Luxury Camping .

Estimated Cost:

Bryce Canyon National Park

From scenic vistas to pink cliffs, Bryce Canyon is a great weekend getaway choice. Tons of trails in the great outdoors. If you enjoy skiing and snowboarding, you absolutely have to visit. Bryce Canyon offers tons of opportunities for white wonderland fun.

The best hotels in Bryce Canyon are Bryce Canyon Resort and Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn .

Total Travel Time: 8 hours

Sometimes all you need is a quick road trip away. It’s a nice fix for those who work full-time or want to have fun for less. Even one day away can help you relax and reset. So if you think that’s not enough, think again and jump in the car. Hopefully, you found these spots fun.

Psst. . . Looking for more Vegas fun? Check out these fabulous guides:

Staying at the Chic SLS Las Vegas

7 coffee shops in las vegas that are changing the game, the most instagrammable desserts in las vegas.

Which day trip sounds the most exciting to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission (at no cost to you) when you purchase through these links, which helps me keep my lights on and order pizza from Dominos! I am extremely grateful. Thank you.

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I’m Allison, a born and raised Vegas girl on the endless pursuit of epic adventures. I created Seeking Neverland as a way to help grown-ups see the world and live a fun and fulfilled life! Read my full story here

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• June 1, 2023

35 Best Day Trips From Las Vegas — Places Nearby!

Las Vegas is a sprawling and vibrant metropolis, famous for the excitement, pleasure and merriment that it can provide.

As fun as Sin City can be, sometimes it can get a bit too loud and crowded, especially during peak tourist season.

Whether you live in Vegas or are here for an extended visit, the best thing to do sometimes can be to get away from the city and explore some nearby places, even if only for a day.

Discover the ways to spice up your Vegas adventure by checking our roundup of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

1. Bryce Canyon National Park

Utah (435) 834-5322

Located in Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park can put you in the midst of some gorgeous sights and colors.

If you start out early enough, you can spend enough time exploring all the attractions in this park before driving back.

It can take around four hours from Vegas to drive here.

Bryce Canyon National Park includes the Bryce Canyon, a huge group of natural amphitheaters, along with its distinctive hoodoos that look like uneven rock structures.

Notably, these structures have bright red and orange colors, often with white streaks and markings that make them so attractive.

Rainbow Point, the park’s peak, rests at around 9,100 feet.

Other attractions include the wildlife, trails, loops, picnic spots and special events taking place.

2. Lake Mead

Lake Mead rests on the Colorado River and is situated in both Nevada and Arizona.

From Las Vegas, Lake Mead is merely a 40-minute drive and can be a great opportunity to make a quick trip to the region.

Lake Mead is actually the largest reservoir in the country, formed as a result of the Hoover Dam.

The waters of Lake Mead are clear and pristine, presenting some stunning views from shore where you can rest and lounge.

You can also carry out some recreation, such as hiking around the area in designated trails, boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming and biking along the shore.

Some places you can park and spend your time include the Hemenway Harbor, Las Vegas Bay, Callville Bay, Echo Bay, South Cove and Temple Bar.

3. Laughlin

If you don’t want to be too far removed from the vibe of Las Vegas but still want a quieter spot to have some fun, the town of Laughlin in Nevada might be just the place for you.

A 1.5-hour drive from Vegas, Laughlin is a smaller resort town with plenty of opportunities to game, gamble, party and indulge in some entertainment.

There are several casinos, restaurants, clubs, spas, golf courses, bars and event spaces in this town that you can enjoy.

Apart from these, Laughlin can also offer numerous water recreational activities due to its proximity to the Colorado River.

For instance, you can kayak, boat, take a dinner cruise, hop on a jet boat or water taxi, fish, jet ski or walk along the shore and have a picnic.

Recommended Hotel: Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort & Casino

4. Santa Clara River Reserve

Santa Clara River is a long river in Utah that begins its course in the Pine Valley Mountains.

Although it’s a 2-hour drive from Sin City, this reserve is totally worth it.

The reserve itself spans 6,500 acres and contains many open spaces, archaeological structures, natural features and many chances for recreation.

There are several hiking and biking trails within this reserve that you can take while also viewing and observing the birds and animals in the region and some fish species in the river.

You can also spend your time fishing, taking a stroll, playing some games or having a picnic.

The reserve contains the Land Hill Heritage Site, which includes several prehistoric structures and sites that you can explore.

If you are driving from Las Vegas, it can take you up to two hours to reach Santa Clara River Reserve.

Recommended Hotel: Red Mountain Resort

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Salt Lake City

5. Dixie National Forest

820 N Main St Cedar City, UT 84721 (435) 865-3700

This national forest is also situated in the state of Utah and can take you approximately three hours to drive here from Vegas.

While you are here, you can walk around and visit the Blue Bell Knoll, Aquarius Plateau, Markagunt Plateau, Paunsaugunt Plateau and the Great Basin, among other attractions.

There are many canyons that characterize this forest, making for some lovely views of red cliffs, many-layered gorges and patterns on the walls.

If you visit the Boulder Mountain, you can also spot and rest by the small lakes.

There are many visitor centers in the forest that you can take a look at depending on which part of the forest you are in.

You can also hike, bike, picnic, boat, zipline and more.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Cedar City

Related: Activities in Las Vegas

6. Black Canyon National Water Trail

Las Vegas day trips to the Black Canyon National Water Trail can keep you close enough to the city while also giving you some peace and quiet.

Being a 45-minute drive from Vegas, this water trail is situated on the Colorado River and rests on the border between Nevada and Arizona.

You can access this trail and take a guided tour of it by hopping onto a boat or a kayak and witnessing sights like Willow Beach, Hoover Dam and other nearby coves, trails, beaches and hot springs.

You might also be able to spot some wildlife along the trail.

This trail spans 30 miles, allowing you to spend your time kayaking or canoeing in the beautiful blue waters and floating along in peace and solitude.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Phoenix/Anthem

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Las Vegas

It can take you a little over two hours to drive from Las Vegas to Area 51.

You must have heard of Area 51 through the conspiracy theories and memes floating around on the internet about the presence of aliens and top-secret missions taking place here.

Technically, you can only view this area from a certain distance without actually making your way inside it, considering that it is a highly classified government facility where the Air Force carries out certain operations.

However, if you are interested in the spookiness and intrigue, it can be well worth it to take a road trip down the Extraterrestrial Highway.

You can also explore the nearby tiny town of Rachel (which only has around 50 residents).

Recommended Hotel: Sunset View Inn L.L.C

Also See: Best Day Trips From Reno

8. Monument Valley

If you are looking for a long drive and are okay making a fairly early start, you can visit Mountain Valley on the Utah-Arizona border, which will take you around six hours to reach from Vegas.

You can either continue driving through Mountain Valley to visit all of its attractions or you can devote sufficient time to a few locations before you head back to Vegas.

Monument Valley is full of sandstone buttes, which include cliff-like structures with vertical walls and sloping bases.

These red-orange buttes can provide some scenic views that can make your visit worthwhile.

You can also visit certain elements in the park, such as Mystery Valley and Oljato, through a tour.

Try catching the sunset before you head back.

Recommended Hotel: Goulding’s Lodge

9. Lake Spring Mountain

Lake Spring Mountain can be a relatively closer way for you to spend your day, especially if you want to spend a summer day cooling off in and near the water.

This lake is part of the Spring Mountain Resort & Country Club and contains a sandy beach-like structure where you can lounge around on chairs while sipping on a drink from the nearby Tiki Bar.

The water in this lake is clear and surrounded by some trees, giving you an authentic beach experience.

This lake is known for its water activities and sports that you can try out, some of which include swimming, boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, rafting and more.

Lake Spring Mountain is only an hour’s drive from Las Vegas.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pahrump, an IHG Hotel

Related: Beaches Near Las Vegas

10. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Naghaw Poa Rd Henderson, NV 89052 (702) 515-5389

The Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is only 20 minutes away from Las Vegas and covers a vast area spanning 48,438 acres, although your actual visit will cover a much shorter area.

Make sure you visit the Sloan Petroglyph Site, which is the primary attraction here, comprising hundreds of rock art structures and panels with as many as 1,700 drawings and designs that represent and convey various native cultural practices.

There are several hiking and biking trails in this conservation area that you can explore along with the geological and natural views.

The North McCullough Wilderness Area is also a part of the Sloan Canyon region and can offer sights pointing to its origin as a volcanic structure.

Recommended Hotel: Homewood Suites by Hilton South Las Vegas

11. Hollywood

Once again requiring an early start, Hollywood in Los Angeles can make for a great day trip from Vegas, taking you a little over four hours to reach.

The prominent feature here is the “Hollywood” sign that rests atop the neighborhood itself.

The neighborhood has several studios, some of which offer access to visitors through guided tours.

There are many film-themed establishments here too where you can soak in the ambiance and have a nice meal and drink.

While you are here, you can also consider exploring some other parts of LA such as its museums, shops and districts.

Some prime attractions here include the Dolby Theater, Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Venice Canal Historic District and others.

Recommended Hotel: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

12. St. George

St. George is a city in Utah that is less than two hours from Las Vegas.

There are several cultural, historic, natural, educational, artistic and commercial centers and establishments in St. George, some of which you can plan to visit during your day here.

For instance, you can visit the Vernon Worthen Park, Downtown Arts District, St. George Children’s Museum, St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, Burns Arena and Dixie Center, Tonaquint Nature Center, Red Hills Desert Garden and others.

Many sporting events take place here in addition to festivals like the St. George Arts Festival, Dixie Roundup Rodeo, Concert in the Park and others.

St. George also has some great restaurants and bars so that you can stay nourished and energetic throughout your day here.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites St George – University Area

13. Snow Canyon State Park

1002 Snow Canyon Dr Ivins, UT 84738 (435) 628-2255

For things to do outside Las Vegas and, in fact, Nevada itself, you can visit the Snow Canyon State Park in Utah.

This state park is a part of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve and is a two-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Perfect for families, it’s a fabulous one day trip from Las Vegas for nature lovers.

In the state park, you can visit and view the canyon itself, made from red and white sandstone, along with the Santa Clara Volcano.

There are several dunes and structures formed from lava here that you can marvel at.

This park has several outdoor activities on offer, such as hiking, biking, horse riding, picnicking, photography and others.

Make sure you buy the entrance pass so that you can enjoy all the facilities of the park.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Coral Hills

Related: Weekend Trips in Nevada

14. Mount Tipton Wilderness

Dolan Springs, AZ 86441 (928) 718-3700

Mount Tipton Wilderness is a wilderness area located in the state of Arizona and is only 1.5 hours from Las Vegas.

This area includes a part of the Cerbat Mountains along with several natural structures and features.

The highest peak here is Mount Tipton where you can hike to.

The Cerbat Pinnacles are the primary attraction in this wilderness area since it contains several spires and open valleys that can give you some beautiful views.

There are many hiking, biking, backpacking, wildlife viewing and horseback riding trails here that you can take advantage of.

Make sure you determine a good time to visit while also carrying plenty of water and food for a picnic.

You can leave once the sun is about to set.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Canyon West Hotel Sheps Miners Inn

15. Wild West Tour

You can consider taking a day-long Wild West tour spanning several routes and ghost towns in Nevada and Arizona.

You can either opt for guided tours that start from Las Vegas or you can consider driving down a planned route on your own.

The entirety of this tour should take you roughly nine hours, although you can alter this based on your requirements too.

Some towns that stand out include Oatman and Chloride, where you can visit some ruins and establishments that can give you some information about the history of the regions while also informing you about the folklore and myths surrounding the region.

Many local saloons can offer you a historical experience with the ambiance and the drinks and food they serve.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western North Phoenix Hotel

16. Mojave National Preserve

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

Mojave National Preserve is situated in the Mojave Desert in the state of California.

It is only a 1.5-hour drive from Las Vegas and can be a great outdoor location where you can stroll around and explore the natural features.

Make sure you choose a relatively cool day to visit this preserve otherwise, it can get quite hot.

The preserve has features and attractions like the Cima Dome, Mark Mountains, Kelso Dunes, Mid Hills, Rings Loop, Teutonia Peak, Joshua Trees and many more.

A lot of these features have hiking and biking trails connected to them that you can take for an additional activity.

You can also carry out horseback riding, off-roading, hunting, picnicking and viewing the wildflowers.

Recommended Hotel: M Resort Spa & Casino

17. Cathedral Gorge State Park

111 Cathedral Gorge State Park Road Panaca, NV 89042 (775) 728-4460

Cathedral Gorge State Park is located in Lincoln County, Nevada and is 2.5 hours away from Las Vegas.

This state park has several natural geological features that you can view, such as the columns and spires formed due to the erosion of bentonite, lending them an attractive red-orange color.

There are many species of plants and animals that you can spot while you are here, including wildflowers, dune primroses, yucca, juniper trees and jackrabbits, coyotes, gophers and deer respectively, among several others.

The slot canyons of this state park also form cave-like tunnels that you can go through and explore, many of which are a part of the trails that you can take here.

You can bike, ride horses, have a picnic, birdwatch or stroll around in this park.

Recommended Hotel: Swallow Cove

18. Seven Magic Mountains

S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89054 (775) 329-3333

The Seven Magic Mountains are located only 40 minutes away from Las Vegas and can be a great experience if you are looking to make a quick trip and back.

These ‘mountains’ are actually an art installation comprising seven different stacks of colorful boulders, making for a lovely and unique sight.

This art installation was made and carried out by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone with support from the Nevada Museum of Art and Art Production of Art.

You can enjoy the contrast between the natural mountains in the backdrop and these manmade mountains in the foreground along with the desert-like landscape surrounding these.

This is a popular spot for visitors, especially in recent times.

It is also commonly used as a photography site.

19. Hoover Dam

Nevada 89005 (702) 494-2517

If you want some places to visit near Las Vegas, do not miss out on Hoover Dam!

This dam is less than an hour from Vegas, and is located in the Colorado River.

Moreover, it is responsible for creating many artificial lakes in this river.

You can access Hoover Dam through several nearby bridges and routes, allowing you to take a look at some picturesque views of the dam, river and lakes.

You can start off your trip by going to the visitor center and buying your tickets, which will then start you off on a guided tour or a visit to the power plant.

Several paintings, documents and prints are exhibited in the visitor center.

You can also take some boat or kayak rides from nearby areas to view the dam from a certain distance.

Recommended Hotel: Boulder Dam Hotel

20. Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon is a steep canyon formed by the Colorado River.

It is located in Arizona and can take a little more than four hours for you to drive here from Las Vegas, so make sure you get an early start.

This natural rock formation has unique and scenic views and attractions, such as the steep red walls and the river flowing underneath them.

You can either remain on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and carry out some sightseeing or you can participate in the activities there, such as rafting, boating, hiking around the area and skydiving.

You can also access Lipan Point, where you can get a good view of the rock layers and the delta of the canyon.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon, an IHG Hotel

21. Nellis Dunes

Nellis Bypass Nellis AFB, NV 89191

Driving from Las Vegas to Nellis Dunes can take you around 30-35 minutes, making for a quick trip.

Once you get there, however, you are certainly in for a ride, given that this location is popular for riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-highway vehicles (OHV), giving you a bumpy and thrilling adventure.

A good idea here can be to book a guided tour and rent a vehicle so that you can have a safe and exciting time riding in the desert and over the dunes.

There are many trails included in these dunes that you can follow, containing different kinds of materials and terrains.

Many competitions and racing events take place here too that you can come down to witness.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Nellis

22. Lost City Museum

721 S Moapa Valley Blvd Overton, NV 89040 (702) 397-2193

Lost City Museum is only an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, making for a quick, interesting and informative visit for your day.

This museum stands where the Ancestral Puebloans, an ancient Native American tribe, used to reside.

This museum displays various kinds of artifacts, objects and carvings from their prehistoric existence, while also including many ruins from the site.

The museum is a rebuilt site that you can enter to take a look at these artifacts while also looking at some photographs, documents and paintings.

Accessories, shells, pots, cooking appliances and other such elements are also present here, allowing you to learn some vital history of the region.

The building itself is made to look like the mounds or huts of the people.

Recommended Hotel: North Shore Inn at Lake Mead

23. Emerald Cove

Emerald Cove, or Emerald Cave, is a scenic and mesmerizing cave located on the Colorado River on the border between Arizona and Nevada.

It’s situated an hour from Las Vegas.

There are several guided tours that you can book to explore this cave, allowing you to take a kayak or canoe out into the water and spend several hours floating and paddling around.

This can be quite a serene and soothing experience, allowing you to get some relief from the noise of Vegas.

It is mainly called Emerald Cove because of the emerald green colors of the water in and around the cave, providing you with enchanting sights.

On the way to the cave, you can also take breaks and eat some light snacks.

Swimming in certain areas is also allowed.

Recommended Hotel: Hoover Dam Lodge

24. Lake Havasu

Las Vegas trips to Lake Havasu can take around 2.5 hours if you drive.

Lake Havasu is situated on the Colorado River but falls on the Arizona side of the river.

This lake is actually a huge reservoir formed by the Parker Dam built on the river in the 1930s.

The waters of this lake are a clear blue-green color, providing you with some picturesque views if you decide to come down here.

You can stroll around this lake and find a nearby picnic spot to rejuvenate yourself.

This lake also offers opportunities for you to fish and boat.

In fact, there are several competitive fishing events taking place here in case you want to check them out on your day out.

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Havasu Dunes

25. Red Rock Canyon

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

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located in Clark County in Nevada and is fairly close to Las Vegas, taking only 15-20 minutes to drive there.

You can also get a good view of the canyon from the Las Vegas Strip, making your drive even more worthwhile.

There are numerous natural rock structures here that include red sandstone cliffs, walls and columns, along with a vast open field.

The Red Rock Canyon can offer plenty of outdoor activities for you to carry out, with hiking and rock climbing being particularly popular.

You can also bike on the trails, ride horses, find a picnic spot or take your time identifying and observing the wildlife here.

There are occasionally some exhibits here too.

Recommended Hotel: JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa

26. Boulder City

If you want to visit a much quieter city in Nevada, you can consider Boulder City, located 30 minutes away from Las Vegas.

The city is small and can be a great place for you to rest, stroll around and visit some local points of interest.

Some of these attractions can include the Nevada Southern Railroad Museum, Alan Bible Botanical Garden, Bootleg Canyon Mountain Bike Park, Historic Railroad Trail, Veterans’ Memorial Park, Rail Explorers and others.

The city also has three golf courses, a pool, open fields, tracks and trails and many other sporting and gaming venues where you can spend your time.

You can also spend a leisurely day roaming around, exploring the restaurants and sipping on a refreshing drink.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Hoover Dam Hotel

27. El Dorado Canyon

El Dorado Canyon is a canyon in Clark County, Nevada that can make for an extremely quick journey from Las Vegas, taking merely 5-10 minutes once you enter the outskirts of the city, although it can take around 45 minutes from the Strip.

This canyon was once famous for its gold and silver mines and rests near the town of Nelson.

This canyon can make for an enjoyable and informative experience, allowing you to learn all about where and how gold and silver were mined here.

You can take guided tours through the various structures of this canyon.

An important and primary location here is the Techatticup Mine, which provided lots of gold back then.

Some mining tools are still kept here for you to look at.

Recommended Hotel: The Sands Motel

28. Hidden Valley

As the name suggests, Hidden Valley remains nestled near the town of Primm in Nevada, which is roughly a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas.

Hidden Valley has a good combination of desert landscapes and cliff-like terrains, giving you some splendid views of the sprawling land.

What Hidden Valley is known for, however, is its ATV riding experience.

If you have some previous experience riding an ATV, you can book your spot and vehicle here and ride up and down the dunes for an exciting adventure.

You can also hire a guide who can support you through the ride.

The site will provide you with helmets, gloves, water, goggles and other relevant equipment.

Make sure you carry some snacks and dress appropriately.

Recommended Hotel: Western Village Inn And Casino

Related: Weekend Trips From San Diego

29. Death Valley National Park

(760) 786-3200

Death Valley National Park is located across both Nevada and California.

The car journey from Vegas to this national park will take you around two hours, giving you ample time to explore the park.

It is best to visit this national park on a day that is neither too hot nor too cold so that you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit.

The park is full of cliffs, sand dunes, valleys, canyons, hills, mountains and salt flats, making for interesting terrain to observe and explore.

There are numerous wildlife species here too.

You can hike, bike, sightsee, drive along the backcountry roads and take a look at some historic remains along with some filming locations from Star Wars.

This park is also famous for stargazing.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Death Valley

30. Mount Charleston

For some scenic places near Las Vegas, you can consider visiting the town of Mount Charleston, which is a 45-minute drive from the city.

The town actually gives way to the beautiful mountain called Mount Charleston.

Its peak is called Charleston Peak and is located at around 11,900 feet.

This location can be quite ideal if you want to spend all your time outdoors, particularly while carrying out some hiking or biking along the vast trails.

If you visit during the winters, you can also carry out some sports and activities like skiing, snowboarding and ice skating in the designated natural lakes.

Sightseeing, picnicking and exploring the restaurants and bars nearby are also possible here.

If you can manage to leave after the sun sets, this can give you some memorable views.

Recommended Hotel: K7 Bed and Breakfast

31. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a unique feature of the Colorado River where it bends in the shape of a horseshoe close to the town of Page in Arizona.

This is another one of those long drives that can take you nearly six hours, so make sure you leave fairly early in the morning.

There are several geological rock formations, like canyons and cliffs located around the bend that you can enjoy viewing alongside the curve of the river itself.

There is a rock cliff in the middle of the bend too.

You can hike around the river, take a kayak and float in it or you can even book a helicopter tour.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell

32. Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is a large reservoir in Henderson, Nevada while also referring to the luxurious area surrounding it.

This reservoir is only half an hour away from the city of Las Vegas.

There are many resorts around this lake where you can choose to spend your day resting, enjoying the views, gambling and drinking.

Many events also take place in these resorts that you can specifically drive down for.

You can also carry out some sports and activities in the water, such as kayaking, boating, swimming, paddleboarding, water skiing and more.

Further, you can access the golf courses nearby.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Henderson Hotel

33. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, or the Navajo Upper Antelope Canyon, is a stunning and captivating canyon that you can reach from Las Vegas within six hours.

This canyon requires you to book a guided tour, so make sure you do this beforehand.

You can enjoy the slot canyons here by going through the caves, tunnels and cliffs made from the erosion of sandstone.

The Upper Antelope Canyon is easier to access and can provide beautiful views of multiple beams of sunlight shining down on the stone.

The Lower Antelope Canyon requires some hiking and climbing but is equally beautiful because of the spiral rock structures.

You should only visit this location when the weather is completely clear.

34. Valley of Fire

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

Valley of Fire is a state park in Nevada and is located 45 minutes away from Las Vegas.

This state park features multiple sandstone formations, dunes, uneven walls, cliffs as well as structures formed from limestone and shale.

You can explore the park either through your vehicle itself or by taking some of the hiking and biking trails.

Many historic and prehistoric ruins and petroglyphs are also observable here.

Some activities you can carry out in this park include camping, picnicking, playing games and more.

Make sure you carry some snacks and sufficient water to get you through the day.

You can also access nearby restaurants for some nourishment.

35. Zion National Park

Utah (435) 772-3256

Zion National Park is located in Utah and is a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas.

There are multiple sandstone cliffs featuring gorgeous colors and layers of pink, red, cream and white.

There are many plateaus, terrains and basins in this park, such as parts of the Great Basin, Mojave Desert and the Colorado Plateau.

As a result of such different terrains, many different wildlife species are found here.

Apart from sightseeing, you can carry out activities like hiking, biking, picnicking, horseback riding and rock climbing.

Often, many guided tours, programs and events take place here that you can attend.

The best day trips from Las Vegas are only a few hours away, making for the perfect opportunities for you to get in your car, go on a road trip and have a memorable day.

Hopefully, this will revitalize you enough and give you a nice break.

Recommended Hotel: Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection By Hilton

Map of Day Trips Near Las Vegas, NV

35 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas, NV for 2024

• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Santa Clara River Reserve
• Dixie National Forest
• Black Canyon National Water Trail
• Monument Valley
• Lake Spring Mountain
• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area
• Snow Canyon State Park
• Mount Tipton Wilderness
• Wild West Tour
• Mojave National Preserve
• Cathedral Gorge State Park
• Seven Magic Mountains
• Grand Canyon
• Nellis Dunes
• Lost City Museum
• Emerald Cove
• Lake Havasu
• Red Rock Canyon
• Boulder City
• El Dorado Canyon
• Hidden Valley
• Death Valley National Park
• Mount Charleston
• Horseshoe Bend
• Lake Las Vegas
• Antelope Canyon
• Valley of Fire
• Zion National Park

• Things to do

Explore > Type of vacation > Day trips > Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

With its buzzy Strip and glittering nightlife, Las Vegas is a 24/7 city where the casinos don’t have clocks and the party never stops. But sometimes you just want to press pause, hit the open road, and get away for a while: here are 8 easy day trips from Las Vegas.

The Grand Canyon

One of America’s most iconic and visited sites, the Grand Canyon has amazed visitors since West Rim Drive was completed in 1912, although it was considered a holy place by the Pueblo people well before that. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas, and the trip itself is something to behold, so make sure you have a camera at hand to snap some pics of the Hoover Dam, the desert towns on Route 66, and the Milk Way burning brightly above the South Rim.

Death Valley National Park

Only a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park is a great spot for a hike or a cycle ride, as well as for taking a few snapshots of the classic American West: just check out the chalk-white Badwater Basin, the Mosaic Canyon, and the Mesquite Dunes, an Instagram-worthy spot that doubled as Star Wars’ Tatooine. If you’re looking for different kinds of stars than the ones in Bellagio’s VIP room, then pack your telescope, as the park is a designated International Dark Sky Park.

Los Angeles

If you’re not looking for peace and quiet, but just want to take the party to another level, Los Angeles is ready for its close-up. The biggest, baddest star on the West Coast, L.A. really does have something for everyone. Whether you want to check out Mel Brooks’ six-finger handprint on the Walk of Fame, kick back with a martini at legendary Musso & Frank’s, catch a Lakers game at the STAPLES Center, or hang 10 at Surfrider Beach, Los Angeles is the perfect all-in-one getaway.

Zion National Park

Trade the shiny modern towers of the Strip for the swoon-worthy red cliffs at Zion National Park, a wild wonderland of waterfalls and vertigo-inducing backcountry that’s less than a 3-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Vegas.

Zion National Park offers a bizarre, beautiful landscape that falls somewhere between Mars and Deadwood, and visitors can explore the region with a canyoneering adventure, a drive down the Kolob Fingers Road Scenic Byway, or a birdwatching trek in search of California condors and peregrine falcons.

Vegas may seem pretty alien at times, but if you want to see someplace really out-of-this-world, hit the 98-mile stretch of asphalt known as the Extraterrestrial Highway. Officially called Nevada State Route 375, the sun-baked highway runs through a lonely stretch of desert sparsely populated by beef jerky stands, kitschy gift shops, and tall tales about alien encounters. By far the biggest attraction is Area 51, or rather, its gates, as the area itself is classified and inaccessible. Still, the pie at the nearby Little A’Le’Inn is heavenly.

Mojave National Preserve

Its name conjures up images of brittle, sun-cracked scrubland, forlorn Joshua Trees, and endless blue skies stretching to infinity, and as such, the Mojave has almost become more of a frontier myth than a place – a Southwestern boogie-man-tale told to warn travelers who wander off the well-traveled roads. But the truth is, there’s a certain allure to the Mojave National Preserve’s lonesome landscape, and an amble through Kelso Ghost Town or along the Teutonia Peak Trail is the perfect antidote to the Vegas crowds.

Hoover Dam/Lake Meade

The Hoover Dam’s place in Las Vegas lore is legendary, as Sin City temporarily tamed its wild side in a futile effort to be named HQ for the project, and the hulking dam is also responsible for creating Lake Meade, the de facto getaway spot for Vegas’ denizens. The Dam also spelled the end for the poor town of St. Thomas – its last resident was forced to row away from their flooded home in 1938 – leaving it a now-visitable ghost town at the edge of Lake Meade.

Boulder City

Like Vegas itself, Boulder City sprung up out of nowhere, a planned community created to house workers during the construction of the Hoover Dam. The aspirational nature of the bootstrap town may not have ultimately functioned as a blueprint for Great Depression America, but its enduring Old Town is a quaint place to shop for souvenirs, and the Boulder Dam Hotel is a must-visit spot that’s hosted everyone from Betty Davis to Shirley Temple. Best of all, it’s only a half-hour drive from Las Vegas.

With so many exciting adventures just around the corner, it’s easy to find the perfect escape. Book your day trip from Las Vegas today !

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The 11 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas, Nevada

10/06/2022 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

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

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

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Table of Contents

11. Valley of Fire

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

Recommended time allotment

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

Best things to see

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

10. Lake Mead

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

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

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

9. Helicopter to the Grand Canyon

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

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

8. Seven Magic Mountains

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

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

7. Red Rock Canyon State Park

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

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

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

6. Mt. Charleston

Believe it or not, you can ski just outside of Las Vegas! At nearly 12,000 feet, Charleston Peak is the highest in Clark County, offering great hiking when it’s not covered in snow.

It takes about an hour to reach Mt. Charleston from the Las Vegas Strip, and if you’re planning on skiing or hiking, you’ll probably choose to spend most of the day on the mountain.

This is one area where you’re likely to enjoy cooler temperatures in the summer months, making it one of the best warmer-weather hiking and mountain-biking destinations in the area. If you’ve never seen a Bristlecone pine tree before, the oldest living organism on earth, be sure to check out the Upper Bristlecone Trail. Enjoy the scenic drive and bring a picnic, or if visiting in the winter months, you can ski, sled, and snowshoe. Be sure to check out road conditions here .

5. Gold Strike Hot Spring

Close to the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, you’ll find a trailhead that takes you to the Gold Strike Hot Spring. It’s just as much about the journey as the destination, as the six-mile hike will make you scramble several times with fixed ropes, and includes an elevation gain of over 1,400 feet.

It takes about 45 minutes to get from the Strip to the trailhead, plus a few hours to hike and enjoy the springs. Though this is a strenuous hike, it’s popular, so head out early to avoid the crowds.

I’m a bit of a broken record here with the summertime warnings, but this hike is challenging, and is not recommended in the heat. Also, some hot springs in the area have dangerous amoebas in them, so dunking your head is not recommended.

4. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam was a feat of engineering during the Depression era. Its construction was no easy task, spanning several years and costing many lives to build. These days, it’s a quick pit stop on your way back from, or to, Arizona, as it straddles the state line.

It takes about 45 minutes to reach the Hoover Dam from the Strip. How much time you want to give this is subjective. It’s free to just drive on to the dam, park, and walk along the top, but you can also take a power plant tour or guided dam tour . (Personally I was pretty underwhelmed and only spent about 10 minutes here.) If you’re looking for a way to get there without renting a car, several Grand Canyon tours make a pit stop on the way.

3. Nelson Ghost Town

Did you know that Nevada has more ghost towns than live ones? After my disappointment with most of the buildings being fenced off at Rhyolite , I was excited to get an opportunity to explore another ghost town with a bit more freedom. This one is private, but it’s only $2 to enter. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and engagement photos.

It takes about an hour to reach Nelson Ghost Town from the Strip. How long you’ll want to spend depends entirely on how enthralled you are with ghost towns and how much photography you care to do. You might spend several hours and take the tour, or just 20 minutes or so wandering around. It’s worth mentioning that many of the other things to do on this list are quite far from Nelson, so it’s a destination in itself.

2. Death Valley

Death Valley is one of my absolute favorite places in California. Prepare to see all kinds of unique rock formations with varying colors, the lowest point in the US, and incredible stars. If visiting in the winter months, I recommend hiking here as well.

Death Valley is one of the farthest drives on this list from Las Vegas, at 2.5 hours. Still, some people choose to do it as a day trip, and if that’s all you’ve got, then give it all day if you possibly can.

The most famous features in the park are the Mesquite Flat sand dunes, the Painters Palette pictured above, the Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, and Zabriskie Point/Golden Canyon. If you have time to hike the Golden Canyon, I highly recommend it in the cooler months. Even then, you will want to get an early start, because it is uncovered and still manages to feel quite hot even in January. Read my complete guide to Death Valley here.

1. Area 51 Alien Center

The famed Area 51 outside of Las Vegas is thought to be hiding alien spacecraft, technology, and other top-secret findings of the otherworldly kind. Though the zone is completely sealed off, on the 95 freeway between Reno and Las Vegas , you can stop by the Area 51 Alien Center for some cheesy photo ops, the gas station, the café, the gift shop full of alien-themed trinkets, and even the brothel.

At an hour and a half from the Strip, this one will only make sense for true diehard A 51 fans, or those who are already passing by. If heading to Death Valley, you could make this a stop on the way.

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My fellow Nevada locals, what would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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23 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Las Vegas day trips are among the best ways to spend time in Sin City. If you have more than a day in Vegas, tear yourself away from the bright lights, grab some road trip snacks, and hit the road. Downtown Las Vegas might be incredible, but all too many people get distracted by bright lights and partying and fail to see the surrounding attractions. If you want the Vegas visit of a lifetime, you must prioritize some day trips from Las Vegas.

Table of Contents

Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas

This guide will cover the best day trips from Las Vegas. If you feel ambitious, Vegas is perfectly positioned to visit sights like Bryce Canyon National Park, Seven Magic Mountains, and even the Grand Canyon. So check out these top day trips and prepare to be seriously inspired.

Planning Your Trip To Las Vegas Right Now?

Below are some of the top day trip tours in Las Vegas. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Las Vegas!

Top Day Trip Activities and Tours in Las Vegas:

• Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam Photo Stop, Lunch, Optional Skywalk (Most Popular Day Trip from Las Vegas)
• Half-Day Emerald Cove Kayak Tour (Our Favorite Day Trip)
• Valley of Fire Hiking Tour from Las Vegas (Likely to Sell Out)
• Small-Group Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Tour from Las Vegas (Best Deal)

1. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a spectacular engineering feat that straddles the iconic Colorado River. The Hoover Dam stands at around 221 meters in height and is positioned parallel to a massive bridge. The Hoover Dam and the Dam Bridge attract as many as 7 million tourists a year, many participating in adrenaline experiences like sky diving or bungee jumps.

These activities are subject to availability and often run at ad hoc times. However, if you fancy a flutter, check if any adrenaline events are running while you are visiting. Even just touring the dam, it is easy to see how its dramatic architecture inspires people to push themselves.

A Hoover Dam day trip is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas if you are pushed for time. The Hoover Dam is a 40-minute drive away, easily squeezed into half a day. And while there are no public transport options, you can also easily book a guided tour or shuttle experience.

We’ve added the Hoover Dam to this list because of how impressive this manmade construction is and how convenient it is to reach. With minimal effort and maximal reward, the Hoover Dam is a fabulous day trip within easy distance from Las Vegas.

2. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is among the most popular yet ambitious Las Vegas day trips. The Grand Canyon is a staggering 4 hours and 20 minutes away from Las Vegas. And if it wasn’t  the  Grand Canyon, we wouldn’t recommend trying to squeeze it in. But because the Grand Canyon is such a bucket list attraction, it is worth the extra effort.

To reach it, you’ll need to either hire a car (preferably with multiple drivers insured so you can split the driving) or book a guided tour. The benefit of a guided tour is that they include round-trip transportation, meaning you don’t have to face nearly 9 hours at the wheel. Weigh up both options and see which most suits you and your trip.

Of course, when you actually get to the Grand Canyon, you’ll have  plenty to do  to reward your efforts. You can take a  helicopter tour , hike the Canyon Overlook Trail, and explore both the West Rim and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The part which makes the Grand Canyon famous is the Great Unconformity – a missing gap in geological history where a layer of rock has wholly disappeared. It is an ongoing mystery that attracts millions of visitors a year, also lured in by the stunning canyon views.

3. Dixie National Forest

Dixie National Forest is a beautiful day trip from Las Vegas. When it comes to day trips from Las Vegas, there are so many desert-style areas of natural beauty that a forest is a welcome change of scenery. The national forest sprawls over 2 million acres, full of hiking trails, canyons, and lakes.

It is the perfect place to go if you want to spend a whole day hiking or biking from Las Vegas – or even go rock climbing if you can rent the necessary equipment. Dixie National Forest is a breath of fresh air after being around the bright lights and blaring music.

Dixie National Forest is a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, so it is a long day trip. You should set off early in the morning to maximize your journey and aim to get multiple drivers on your insurance to split driving time. It is well combined with a scenic drive through Zion National Park, though, so if you fancy a road trip vibe, Dixie National Forest was practically made for you.

4. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Fancy a bit of historical immersion? Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is an old ranch now treated as a state park with regular historical re-enactments. It is an interesting hybrid between a natural destination and a cultural attraction – perfect if you are stuck between them.

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is within the Red Canyon National Conservation Area and is just 30 minutes driving distance from Las Vegas. It is an effortless attraction to squeeze into a packed Vegas itinerary (which, let’s be honest, is definitely the norm).

Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is ideal if you want one of the more cultural day trips from Las Vegas. If you time things correctly, you can catch one of the live Broadway musicals at the Super Summer Theatre at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This outdoor theatre is a beautiful place to sit and be entertained, with a backdrop of mountains and endless green fields. You should also stop by the state park’s old Main Ranch House. The former ranch house is now an immersive museum offering videos and guided tours.

5. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular Las Vegas day trips. The 3.4 million acres of the national park is a gorgeous mixture of desert and mountains – a total dream for hiking and sightseeing. It is also the largest national park in the US outside of Alaska. There are almost 1,000 miles of roads to explore and reach different attractions. Luckily, considering the Death Valley National Park is so large, it is just a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Even though you should choose some things to do in Death Valley National Park before you set off, you’ll need to have a bit of an itinerary to squeeze it into a day trip effectively. The top attractions in Death Valley are Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Sand Dunes, and Wildrose Charcoal Kiln.

As one of the most iconic and popular day trips from Las Vegas, it’s easy to add Death Valley National Park to this list. Treat Death Valley National Park as a given when choosing day trips – the only question is what you will do when you visit. Check out our guide on the  best things to do in Death Valley  for extra inspiration or take a look at guided tours .

6. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is stunning. There are no two ways about it. The sandstone canyon swirls in photogenic formations and gets so narrow in sections that it transforms into a slot canyon. Antelope Canyon is well worth visiting if you like hiking (or even just tolerate hiking if it means reaching very scenic places) .

The canyon sits on Navajo Nation lands, and you can arrange a tour with a Navajo guide – to learn about its beauty, geography, and cultural significance. There are even  photo tours  where you are accompanied by experienced photographers. It is easily one of the most memorable day trips from Las Vegas.

When deciding to visit Antelope Canyon, your two main choices are Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Upper Antelope is the most popular and much easier to walk through. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little more tricky and less frequented because of this. Full disclosure, Antelope Canyon – whichever section you choose – is one of our most ambitious Las Vegas day trips.

Antelope Canyon is a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, so definitely no mean feat. In an ideal world, you’d break down a trip to Antelope Canyon across a couple of days as a detour from Las Vegas. But if you need to squeeze it into a day trip, insure multiple drivers to split driving or invest in a guided tour  that provides round-trip transportation.

7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful day trip option from Las Vegas. It only takes a little guesswork to figure out that Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area gets its name from the amount of bright red rocks. It is full of sandstone that is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset when golden hours set the whole Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on fire.

The red colors are almost blinding at these times. And angle your visit to coincide with these hours. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is most famous for its scenic drive – a 13 miles stretch of road that cuts through some of the most dramatic scenery.

Aside from the famed scenic drive, there are petroglyphs, seasonal waterfalls, and hiking trails galore. If you can, plan to visit some of the attractions and finish with a sunset scenic drive. Distance-wise, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas.

You can reach the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area’s Visitor’s Center in 30 minutes, a convenient addition to your itinerary. For us, the photogenic red rocks are the main draw. It is somewhere that you can quickly tick off  that  Vegas desert experience.

8. Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest is a total of 1.6 million acres of stunning plateaus, peaks, and prairies. This is the sort of place to bring binoculars, as wildlife like grazing bison are just common sightings. The national forest sits on the Colorado Plateau and is a hotspot for wildlife sightings, flora, and fauna.

And between prairies and mountain peaks is a dense blanket of pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pines. You can fully embrace the national forest with over 300 miles of hiking trails. Or, for the whole ‘summer camp’ throwback, head out boating or fishing. Kaibab National Forest is one of the most wholesome day trips from Las Vegas. You’ll love it.

Admittedly, Kaibab National Forest is a long day trip from Las Vegas. Allow a 3-hour drive to reach the forest from Sin City, and consider allowing extra time to detour to Flagstaff for skiing or the Grand Canyon, which is located just north of Kaibab National Forest. Extend Kaibab National Forest from a day trip to an overnight stay if you can. This way, you can combine it with a visit to other famous nearby attractions. Kaibab National Forest has a lot of potential – day trip or otherwise – so we had to include it.

9. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a beautiful day trip and a greener version of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It has the same red sandstone rock formations and a stunning Zion Canyon. Still, it also has the Virgin River cutting through the national park. Greenery and forests have popped up along its banks – creating a stunning hybrid between the desert and abundant green space.

Less than 150,000 acres in size, Zion National Park is a very feasible day trip from Las Vegas and full of excellent hiking trails where you can embrace contrasting landscapes. You can hike to the Emerald Pools for some scenic water scenery. It is also notably home to Angels Landing, renowned as one of the  best hiking trails in Zion , if not the US.

It is a 2.5-hour drive to Zion National Park, just over the Utah border near St. George. It is super easy to visit if you hire a car and set off early enough to allow a full day in the park. You can always stop for a break in St George, which has the impressive Bloomington Petroglyph Park and the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It is a fantastic halfway point.

10. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is another red rock attraction feasible as a Las Vegas day trip. It is a fabulous place to tick off that red rock experience, and the sandstone is incredibly stunning at sunrise and sunset. What makes Valley of Fire State Park different from the other red rock options, though, you may rightly ask?

Primarily its more challenging hikes and the fact it is home to petrified logs. Silica Done is an awe-inspiring hiking attraction to tackle. While the Petrified Logs Loop is perfect for getting up close to fossilized trees. Valley of Fire State Park is approximately 46,000 acres and is full of activities. The petrified logs and unique hiking make it worthwhile for us – they are some fantastic  things to do in Valley of Fire State Park.

Valley of Fire State Park is just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, so a very feasible day trip. It is also excellently combined with a trip to Lake Mead since one driving route takes you directly past the north shore of the lake. You could go hiking and then dip in Lake Mead to cool down.

11. Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most bizarre day trips from Las Vegas. Apart from the word ‘magic’, the name Seven Magic Mountains may sound unassuming, but this attraction is anything but ordinary. The striking structures consist of a line of brightly colored rocks stacked on each other with a dramatic backdrop of mountains behind them. The ‘mountains’ are essentially a giant art display. And millions of tourists flock to snap photos and gaze at this beautiful display.

Admittedly, Seven Magic Mountains is a 15-minute attraction to visit. If you don’t time your visit right, it can be heaving with camera-happy tourists and dust. But the main selling points are that Seven Magic Mountains is free to enter, alluring to creative enthusiasts, and just a 20-minute drive from Las Vegas. For us, these pros won the day and snuck Seven Magic Mountains onto our list of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

12. Cathedral Gorge State Park

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a brilliant addition to your day trips from Las Vegas if you like outdoor activities. The nearly 2,000-acre park is most famous for its Cathedral Gorge canyons, which get their bright colors and unique erosion from ancient lakebeds. Cathedral Gorge State Park is full of bizarre spires and fascinating rock formations. If you want somewhere to hike, snap photos, and are interested in geology, you are on to a winner.

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a medium distance from Las Vegas – approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by car one way. It is our northernmost attraction in this guide and provides a brilliant insight into local geology. You’ll drive through the Desert National Wildlife Range, pass the Stonehenge replica, and even the Alien Research Center. There is a ton to stop off and see on the way, which also convinced us to add Cathedral Gorge State Park to our guide.

13. Lake Mead

Lake Mead is a huge reservoir created by the Hoover Dam and fed by the Colorado River. While it is primarily a water source (supplying over 25 million people), it is also a place for recreation. And in some designated areas, even swimming is perfect in summer months to escape the Las Vegas heat. The best swimming spots are Willow Beach and Boulder Swim Beach, which have shallow waters and rocky beaches.

Lake Mead is a fantastic place to visit from Las Vegas and one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas in summer. With its staggering water capacity, Lake Mead is also the largest reservoir the US has – a lofty title. So, it is apparent why Lake Mead is an iconic day trip from Las Vegas.

Lake Mead is just a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas, depending on the whereabouts of the lake that you visit. The most tempting part of this day trip is undoubtedly the swimming opportunities. However, Lake Mead also has some stunning desert scenery; what more dramatic backdrop could you want? And if swimming isn’t your forte, then there is boating and fishing to enjoy. Lake Mead is scenic, fun, and refreshing.

14. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is very cool. We are talking rock spires, overlooks, and a natural amphitheater. As far as day trips from Las Vegas go, this 35,000-acre park is a worthy candidate. Its rock formations are striking and photogenic enough to justify its grand collection of  hiking trails . Natural Bridge, Bryce Point, and Fairyland Point are all fantastic attractions in Bryce Canyon National Park.

As a destination in its own right, Bryce Canyon National Park is well worth a 4-hour drive into Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park has all the gusto to rival larger, more popular national parks. So we’ve added it as an ambitious day trip from Las Vegas, ideal for those wanting to branch out from Nevada into neighboring Utah.

Logistics-wise, hiring a car that multiple people are insured to drive is obviously better. If you can split the driving between two people, Bryce Canyon National Park will be feasible as one of your day trips from Las Vegas. It is fantastic to combine with Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Zion National Park, and Dixie National Forest – all of which you drive directly past. Otherwise, you could extend your driving time to head south and incorporate the Grand Canyon. Driving to Bryce Canyon National Park from Las Vegas is as intense as a day trip. Still, it has one of the best road trip itineraries in the US.

15. Extraterrestrial Highway

Extraterrestrial Highway is one of the most exciting day trips from Las Vegas – whether you are a believer or not. The Extraterrestrial Highway is a 98-mile stretch of road encompassing some of the US’s most incredible alien-themed attractions. Starting from Las Vegas, you head up the Nevada 375, aka the sight of the most UFO sighting in the US. There have been so many UFO sightings along this highway that the Nevada state renamed it.

And true to its namesake, it makes for one of the best alien-themed road trips with a mixture of natural and manmade attractions, even if you don’t see a real-life UFO. You can see the sailing stones at Death Valley Inn, peer from the top of Tikaboo Peak at Area 51, stop by the Alien Research Center (more on that later), or go UFO gazing at Lower Pahranagat Lake.

The whole drive should take approximately 3 hours one way, so pick out the highlights that most stand out to you. Extraterrestrial Highway is easily a full-day activity if you drive the whole length. If you don’t drive, it is worth looking into guided tours that provide round-trip transportation to specific attractions. Extraterrestrial Highway is one of the wackiest day trips from Las Vegas, but definitely a fan favorite simply for its outlandish novelty.

16. Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park is tiny at just 7,400 acres. But for such a small area, it sure packs a punch. At Snow Canyon State Park, you can ride horseback between sandstone canyons, hike past lava tubes, and check out the extinct Santa Clara volcano. There are around 16 miles of shared-use trails for riders and hikers – more than enough to keep you entertained for a day on one of your day trips from Las Vegas.

Snow Canyon State Park really stands out for its volcanic element. Between lava tubes and extinct volcanoes, you’ll indeed have a lot of geological history and unique landmarks to learn about and sightsee. Its smaller size also makes it a super feasible day trip.

Snow Canyon State Park is a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. It is easily combined with the other attractions in southwest Utah, like Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Zion National Park. Or you can just treat it as a half-day adventure.

17. Emerald Cave Kayaking

Emerald Cave is a stunning cave with depths of up to 24 feet and a striking green color. The mixture of sunlight and algae lights up the cave in translucent green. This attraction really is natural beauty at its best. Emerald Cave is a beautiful reason to escape the big city. Its good looks guarantee it a spot on our guide.

Emerald Cave is just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. It is located just outside of Willow Beach and on the Colorado River. This section of the Colorado River is serene and peaceful, and heading through the cave and bright green waters is a beautiful day trip from Las Vegas. You can kayak from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave in as little as 1.5 hours – booking a guided tour or renting a kayak independently.

18. Climb Mount Charleston Peak

Hiking Mount Charleston is a challenging feat. The Charleston Peak South Trail takes nearly 11 hours to complete and is considered a challenging route. As far as day trips from Las Vegas go, Mount Charleston is the most tricky. You’ll tackle an elevation gain of 1,541 meters, traversing switchbacks up Echo Cliffs and the South Rim Plateau. Mount Charleston stands at 3,632 meters in height and is one of Nevada’s highest peaks.

Luckily, Charleston Peak is just a 45-minute drive west of Las Vegas. So you won’t have far to go after walking for 11 hours. The drive is pretty scenic, too, taking you through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. For fitness enthusiasts and experienced hikers, climbing Charleseak is a must.

19. Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is one of the most convenient day trips from Las Vegas. At approximately 1.5 million acres in size, it spans a vast area. It is home to a massive population of Joshua trees – perfect if you still need to venture as far as Joshua Tree National Park. The varied landscape rolls from lava tubes to a more classic sand dune-style desert wilderness. Mojave National Preserve is great fun to explore. And you can choose horseback riding, 4WD, or enjoy the hiking trails.

Mojave National Preserve is 2.5 hours from Las Vegas by car. However, if you take the scenic route, which loops you through the national preserve, it takes 2 hours and 40 minutes to reach the Hole-in-the-Wall Information Center. It is a brilliant road trip with plenty of fun driving, diverse scenery, and many stop-off points.

20. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River

Going whitewater rafting is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas for adrenaline junkies. And for the ultimate rafting experience, you just have to book a day trip to the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is sliced in half by the infamous Colorado River and is the ideal place to jump your heart into your mouth.

The rapids on the Grand Canyon’s section of the Colorado River are 1-10 scale, with some super sketchy areas and more beginner-suitable rapids if you want to dip your toes in. Most white water rafting tours in the Grand Canyon tackle up to Phantom Ranch – a point right in the heart of the canyon. You’ll be in for a treat if you haven’t white water rafted before. While if you have, the novelty of rafting through the Grand Canyon is the real deal.

Regardless of which tour operator you choose, the Grand Canyon is around a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, so you can expect a full day out if you go whitewater rafting in the canyon. The exhilaration will make it all worthwhile, and the excitement makes it so popular.

21. Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is hardly a tiny town. However, it is a much calmer alternative than staying in Las Vegas for another full day. If you need a break from the Vegas antics, Lake Havasu City is an ideal candidate and is just 2 hours and 20 minutes away. It has stunning lakeside beaches and a ridiculously scenic state park that hugs the Lake Havasu shoreline.

Another massive draw of Lake Havasu City is London Bridge which was transported from England in the 1970s and is one of the largest antiques ever sold. The London Bridge was dismantled and restructured in Lake Havasu City, now explorable independently or as a walking tour. So you’ll be well entertained for a day between London Bridge and the Lake Havasu State Park and beaches.

Lake Havasu City is famous for its iconic lakeside locale and the novelty of London Bridge. There isn’t anywhere you can enjoy a quiet beach apart from Lake Havasu City near Vegas, so that is the main reason we’ve added it to this guide. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is fantastic but extremely busy and mainstream in tourism, so Lake Havasu City is an excellent alternative destination. You can also stop at Boulder City or Willow Beach on the way.

22. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a long day trip, approximately a 3-hour and 20-minute drive from Las Vegas. Its iconic Joshua trees sprout throughout the nearly 800,000 acres of the desert landscape. Joshua trees are spiny trees that just up branchless like cacti or palm trees and only have leaves at the very ends of their branches. People tend to see Joshua trees as symbols of strength and beauty, and the trees coined their names from Mormon settlers who felt guided by the trees during this 19th-century journey.

If you love hiking, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas. You can check out the Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Cholla Cactus Garden Trail, or the Arch Rock Nature Trail. Even driving through Joshua Tree National Park is beautiful, though, so be prepared to bask in scenic drives.

Despite its distance from Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park is definitely worth a day trip – just because of its famous and fantastic scenery. Its good looks won our vote. And if you have a bit longer, you can always stop overnight in Palm Springs or camp to make the whole experience more relaxing on the driving front.

23. Nelson Ghost Town

Ready for a bit more of an unusual day trip from Las Vegas? Nelson Ghost Town is an atmospheric gold mine that was abandoned around the 1930s and is now like a time capsule to days gone by. It is like stepping into the past, with buildings restored to their former glory and retro signs and relics everywhere.

Many people liken it to a Disney-style experience because it is so well-maintained. However, it is an impressive historical attraction and fantastic for anyone wanting a more cultural day trip from Vegas. The ghost town element is just the cherry on top, adding a bit of novelty to the experience.

At just a 45-minute drive from Vegas, Nelson Ghost Town is hardly a lot of effort to incorporate into an itinerary. You can park alongside many old retro vehicles, which adds to the historical allure. Nelson Ghost Town really itches that historical and cultural spot that last Vegas can lack, so we just had to add it to our list. It’s also perfectly combined with an Eldorado Canyon tour, and there are tons of mine sightseeing hiking trails nearby if you want to extend your experience.

Day Trips from Las Vegas: FAQs

Day trips from Las Vegas are so exciting, whether you drive to Dixie National Forest or stop by the Alien Research Center. There is tons of variety and different landscapes. In summer months, the Colorado River might call your name. The Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree National Park can be explored leisurely at lower temperatures in winter. But what else do you need to know? Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Is Zion a day trip from Las Vegas?

Yes, Zion is within driving distance from Las Vegas, so it is a feasible day trip. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive to Zion National Park, so set off nice and early to maximize your time for sightseeing and enjoying hiking trails.

What is within 2 hours of Las Vegas?

There are loads of things to do within 2 hours of Las Vegas. You can visit Zion National Park, Lake Mead, Mojave National Preserve, Death Valley National Park, and smaller cities like Boulder City.

Is Joshua Tree near Las Vegas?

Joshua Tree is just 3 hours away so within easy driving distance from Las Vegas. It might be a long day trip, but it is definitely feasible if it is your bucket list destination.

How many days in Vegas is enough?

3 days in Las Vegas is enough to squeeze in one day trip and see a bit of the Vegas Strip. However, ideally, you’d stay a minimum of 5 days to really make the most of the city and its day trips.

To Conclude

Day trips from Las Vegas are really worth drawing yourself away from Las Vegas Strip. Sin City is actually fantastically positioned to explore more natural destinations – the Virgin River, Magic Mountains, or one of the nearby national parks. You can rent a car and arrange day trips from Las Vegas independently; all of these best day trips are within driving distance from Las Vegas. Alternatively, book a guided tour that transfers you from Las Vegas. There are many tours, like a Grand Canyon West tour that includes transfers from Las Vegas, meaning you get to kick back and avoid driving.

Looking for more Vegas inspiration? Here is our guide on where to stay in  Las Vegas . Finding a good accommodation as a base is vital for getting the most out of your Vegas trip – so get the low down on neighborhoods and best hotels before booking.

Plan Your Next Trip to Las Vegas With These Resources

• Where to Stay in Las Vegas: Best Places and Areas
• Off the Strip – Things to do Outside Las Vegas
• 19 Best Road Trips in The US
• 30 Best Things to Do in Reno, NV
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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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?

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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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Wonderful Things to do Near Las Vegas (and National Park visits!)

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on April 17, 2024

Clearly I’m all about not spending all my time on the Las Vegas Strip, so of course I’m going to tell you to take time to explore outside of downtown Vegas. There are cool museums, lots of hiking, and historic sites to visit, all on day or afternoon trips from Las Vegas. With so many things to do near Las Vegas and on short adventures from the city, a Vegas vacation takes on a whole new and exciting meaning.

From nearby National Parks to beautiful hiking just minutes from the Strip, I think you’ll find our ideas for great things to do near Las Vegas will actually give you several days of adventures that include zero gambling and lots of family friendly activities. If you have anything to add for what to do and see near Vegas, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more!

Outdoor Things to do Near Las Vegas

You may think of Las Vegas as being a hot hot hot desert city, but that’s not always the case. If you’re visiting in summer, yes, it’ll be blazing, but in winter and spring it’s actually pretty wonderful and not too hot. There are quite a few fun, unique outdoor sights and things to do near Las Vegas that are easy to add to your visit to Sin City.

Las Vegas Neon Museum

When you’re in downtown Las Vegas, you’ve got Fremont Street with the vintage casinos and some cool old neon and signs, but Las Vegas has a bigger, broader history of coolness than this. Just outside of town (a drive or short Uber ride) is the Las Vegas Neon Museum . This is also known as the Neon Graveyard, the Las Vegas Boneyard, and the Vegas sign depot. The Las Vegas Neon Museum is super cool and really fun to explore. It’s one of the best things to do near Las Vegas because it’s outdoors, it’s artsy, historic and completely unique.

When you visit, you’ll find so many of the giant neon and flash bulb signs that you saw in movies when you were a kid. You see Vegas icons that were seemingly gone forever… but they’re actually here at the Las Vegas Neon Museum. Your can either visit during the daytime or night. While daytime is still really neat, nighttime is the best option because all the old, vintage Vegas signs get turned on and it’s beautiful!

Note: because the Neon Museum is open so late at night (until midnight some days) they don’t open until 3:00 pm. Plan your visit appropriately, and if you’re thinking of nighttime, be sure to get your tickets in advance.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

I will always opt for heading into nature over hanging out in a city, and at about 20 minutes from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a great option for this. There are lots of hiking trails, you can go mountain biking, there are nearby horse outfitters, and there’s even a scenic drive through the park. One of the best things to do near Las Vegas in the winter and spring months, Red Rock Canyon is an accessible nature spot that is great for everyone, including kids that are into visitor centers (sounds weird, but our kids LOVE visitor centers).

Since Red Rock Canyon has been protected for so long, it’s actually a great please to watch for wildlife. You might not get to see any big ticket creatures like bears, but deer, rabbits, birds and more are all over! And there’s awesome birdwatching here too!

Valley of Fire State Park

We love hiking at Valley of Fire State Park . It’s not too far from downtown Las Vegas for being as awesome and deep into nature as it is. For less than an hour’s drive you get to experience the Southwest desert at its peak. Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas because it is AS GOOD AS a National Park, but closer. The wildlife is awesome (lots of bighorn sheep!), the geology is insane, and the hiking is top notch.

One of the unexpected things we really enjoyed at Valley of Fire State Park is the amount of petroglyphs. The ancient rock drawings are in several places and there are TONS of them. We actually were on a hike in Canmore, Alberta and saw the sister petroglyphs to the ones at Valley of Fire, meaning they were most like created by the same group of people despite being thousands of miles apart.

Plan at least a half a day for exploring Valley of Fire. It’s easy to make this a day trip from Las Vegas, so you never even need to check out of your hotel.

Visit Hoover Dam – Pretty Cool

If you’re into engineering or just want to check off the boxes of iconic roadside America, visiting Hoover Dam is probably on your list. Being less than 40 minutes from the city, it’s one of the most popular things to do near Las Vegas. There are are few ways to visit Hoover Dam:

• Drive in on your own and check out the many viewpoints
• Enter on your own and do the museum and a tour ( when available )
• Visit on a day-tour from Las Vegas (I did this in Spring 2024)

Whichever way you choose, there is an entry fee and you’ll need to provide ID, as it’s a federal site. If you’re just going for the view, allowing yourself an hour as a part of a larger day of exploring should be fine. Add another hour if you’re also planning on doing the museum and exhibits.

If you’re interested in visiting as a part of a day-tour from Vegas, there are several options. I went with Max Tour Vegas and had a great visit (and awesome rest of the tour). I like doing tours like this because I don’t have to drive myself and actually get to enjoy the ride and guided info.

Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area

Continuing with really cool Nevada history and geology, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area is another great day trip from the city. At just a half hour away, hiking or seeing the petroglyphs at Sloan Canyon is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas to get you outdoors!

What makes Sloan Canyon different from Valley of Fire are a few things:

• The geology – much different rock formations and colors
• The hikes – there are a lot of loop hikes in Sloan Canyon vs out and back trails
• The location – twice as close to the city, Sloan Canyon takes much less time to visit (but it isn’t as cool) as Valley of Fire.

Ultimately, there are so many wonderful things to do near Las Vegas, and hiking is my favorite pick when it’s not completely scorching. Whether you’re heading here or Red Rocks or Valley of Fire, always be prepared with extra water and snacks, and always keep wildlife safety and sun protection at the front of your mind!

Easy Day Trips from Las Vegas

There are lots of wonderful destinations and unique things to do near Las Vegas, full of amazing sights that can be a day trip or short overnight away. With four National Parks easily visited over a day or two (or three) away from Las Vegas, you can turn a Vegas vacation into a great outdoor adventure! We have flown into Las Vegas several times to do trips like this, including an epic Utah National Parks road trip, so use Vegas as a jumping off point since there are so many cool spots so near to the city.

Guided Tour from Las Vegas to National Parks

Not everyone is down for a road trip or wants to rent a car, but if you’ve traveled all the way to Las Vegas, you’ll want to go exploring to the National Parks near Las Vegas. A great way to do this is actually to book a multi day tour from Vegas to the Parks. I did a wonderful two-day tour with Max Tours where they picked me up at my hotel and planned the whole thing.

We started with a stop at the Hoover Dam, then continued along Route 66 making stops in towns along the way, until we got to the Grand Canyon. We made several stops along the South Rim, including the Yavapai Museum and then continued onto Page, Arizona for our overnight. 

Waking up, I looked out my window to see that we slept right next to the Glen Canyon Dam. Our Max Tour continued with the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook hike, then the famous Horseshoe Bend, and then finally Lower Antelope Canyon (wow!). The drive back was gorgeous, driving through Kanab, Utah and eventually arriving back in Las Vegas after dark with the Strip aglow. It was awesome and such a different experience than driving myself.

The same company offers tours to Bryce Canyon NP, Zion NP, day tours and more. I would do this sort of multi-day tour again in a heartbeat. So easy and fun. Max Tour Vegas actually has a few multi day tours to National Parks from Las Vegas:

• 3 Day – Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon
• Grand Canyon / Antelope Canyon Overnight

Death Valley National Park – 2 hrs Away

Did you know that a day trip to Death Valley National Park is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas? It’s true! At just 2 hours away from the Las Vegas Strip, you can head to Death Valley to visit of the most most unusual spots in the United States. Home to the hottest place in the country, Furnace Creek set the record, visiting Death Valley is a weird and awesome thing to do. You can visit for the day and just see the sights, like doing the scenic drive, or head there for stargazing after dark.

For just a day trip, plan to hit the following:

• Badwater Basin
• Artist’s Drive
• Natural Bridge trail
• Devil’s Golf Course
• And of course the Visitor Center

Remember, if you’re doing a day trip to Death Valley from Las Vegas, bring lots of water or be sure to stop in Pahrump before you go into the park to get supplies. It’s crazy hot in Death Valley in the spring, summer and fall, and then arid and cold in winter months. Parts of it are like being at the summit in Haleakala National Park and others are like the deserts of eastern Utah or the Painted Hills. It’s really cool!

Zion National Park – 2.5 hrs Away

We love getting to visit Zion National Park and have been in winter, spring and summer. Zion is an easy 2.5 hour drive away, making it one of the nearest National Parks to Las Vegas. To get there, you actually go from Nevada to Arizona to Utah, which is kind of cool. The drive through the Virgin River Gorge is one of the most beautiful stretches in the area.

If you only have one day in Zion National Park, be sure to leave Las Vegas early so you can get all the hiking and viewpoints in that you like. There are lots of options for where to stay at Zion National Park, and we do recommend making this an overnight trip so you don’t have to feel completely rushed.

If you only get one day in Zion NP, here are our top picks for beautiful sights and hikes:

• Paras Trail – this goes along the Virgin River on the west side of the park and takes you to the Emerald Pools. It’s easy with kids and will take about 2 hours.
• Weeping Wall – this is a quick stop of about 30 minutes up to a carved out cliffside full of vegetation and a beautiful view into the valley.
• Big Bend to the Narrows – hiking the Narrows is popular, but it’s difficult, iffy, and requires a permit. You can do the hike to the start of it though, and it’s pretty cool. It takes about 1.5 hours.
• Zion Canyon Overlook – this is my favorite trail in Zion National Park and provides the most epic view. You get a similar view to Angel’s Landing without the longer hike or need for a reservation. Allow yourself 2 hours to hike it.

You can come back into the park the next morning for more sights and hikes, or you can head north to visit Cedar Breaks National Monument before heading back to Las Vegas. You really can have a wonderful visit during this short amount of time, and you can still enjoy time in the city since these things to do near Las Vegas are just off the main highway.

Joshua Tree National Park – 3.5 hrs Away

There are just so many great National Parks near Las Vegas! Joshua Tree NP is our next pick, as it’s about three and a half hours from Vegas. I love Joshua Tree National Park , especially during the springtime super bloom. Bouldering, nature trails and just enjoying all the fascinating plant life make Joshua Tree a unique day trip from Las Vegas.

For an easy day trip plan, get there early and start at the northern entrance, making stops at the Oasis, the Cholla Garden and viewpoints along the way. Have a picnic lunch at Skull Rock or the Live Oak picnic area, then do the interpretive trail through the Joshua Trees. There’s a great Visitor Center at the 29 Palms entrance, so check it out too! If you have more time, exit through the south side and visit the Coachella Valley Preserve for another cool oasis and awesome wildlife watching. Did you ever consider that Joshua Tree National Park was one of the cool things to do near Las Vegas?

Grand Canyon National Park – 4 hrs Away

So many people visit the Grand Canyon as a part of their Las Vegas trip. There are three parts of the Grand Canyon, so while you may be thinking that it’s not a logical add-on, it really is actually one of the great things to do near Las Vegas and is easier than you might expect. 

The closest part of the Grand Canyon to LV is called Grand Canyon West. This area is not part of the National Park, but is both part of a preserve and part privately owned. Here you’ll find hikes and viewpoints, as well as the famous Skywalk over the Grand Canyon.

The actual National Park portions of the Grand Canyon are a bit further east, and it’s most likely the experience you’re looking for. Entering Grand Canyon National Park through the Tusayan entrance, you’ll be coming right to the Visitor Center, South Rim shuttle, and so many amazing viewpoints. Whether you want to jump on the bus and stop along the way to Hermit’s Rest or you want to park and hike along the rim, there are plenty of options. Check out our Awesome Arizona Road Trip for more Grand Canyon ideas!

One of the most talked-about things to do at the Grand Canyon is the Bright Angel Trail. This is an intense hike that you need to plan for, including bringing the right supplies. You can do a small portion or go for twelve miles. If you’re coming to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas for hiking, be sure that you’re well hydrated (not hungover), wearing the right clothing (not clubbing clothes) and that you have healthy snacks (not casino donuts).

For people interested in visiting the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it’s another few hours drive to get there, and it’s only open seasonally. There are some beautiful hikes and sights, but it’s really far to drive as part of a short visit from the city. The SOUTH RIM is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas, not the North Rim. If you want to visit both, you need to make a specific Grand Canyon trip.

Bryce Canyon National Park – 4 hrs Away

Another wonderful National Park near Las Vegas, Bryce Canyon National Park is really cool and easy to visit. It’s a great day trip (long day) or single overnight. If you leave Las Vegas at 6:00 am you’ll be to Bryce Canyon NP by 10:00 am, you can have six or seven hours of hiking and lunch at the canyon, then drive back. You’ll be back to your hotel just after 8:00 pm and have had a wonderful visit!

I love visiting Bryce Canyon in the off season because there are nearly no people there, and due to its elevation, there’s usually snow on the canyon’s hoodoos. You can easily do some small hikes along the rim, or do the Mossy Cave trail (fun waterfall). If you plan appropriately and the conditions are right, the Navajo trail or Queen’s Garden are both amazing, but they’ll take a significant amount of time. To get the most out of your visit from Las Vegas, plan to stay over one night in the town of Tropic, Utah and then drive back the next day.

Antelope Canyon – 4.5 hrs Away

This adventure should be paired with visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, as Page, Arizona is just east of the South Rim. If you haven’t heard of Antelope Canyon, get ready to be blown away. This beautiful, hidden canyon system has some of the most unique and amazing geologic features. A slot canyon broken into two parts, Lower Antelope Canyon is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.

You’ll need a reservation for your guided hike through Antelope Canyon , as it’s privately managed and operators are a part of the Navajo Nation. I went with Ken’s Tours and our guide, Kelly, was fantastic, sharing the history of the canyon, stories of events happening in the area, and all about the geology. I most enjoyed all the amazing photography opportunities from start to finish, and our guide was very helpful in setting up shots for us.

If you’re planning a trip to Antelope Canyon from Las Vegas, keep in mind that there are two areas, Upper and Lower. They are very different from each other.

• Upper Antelope Canyon is more of a “V” shaped canyon, with a few places where sunlight breaks through in a column of light at the right time of day
• Lower Antelope Canyon is “A” shaped with continual puzzle-piece style silhouettes along the ledges above

You can do tours for each or just pick one, but either way it’s worth visiting and paying the seemingly steep ticket price.

Great Basin National Park – 4.5 hrs Away

While this is the furthest day trip to a National Park near Las Vegas we’ll recommend, it’s totally worth it. Great Basin National Park is huge with some of the most unique Southwest landscapes you’ll find. One of the highlights of visiting Great Basin NP is the cave system. We visit caves wherever we can, from Sequoia National Park to Lewis and Clark Caverns in Montana, and Great Basin has some cool ones.

Also, this National Park is great for birdwatching and even spotting porcupines! Nevada might not strike you as a wildlife destination, but if you’re patient, like to explore early in the morning, and are into desert fauna, you’ll have a great visit to Great Basin National Park. Of all the things to do near Las Vegas, Great Basin National Park is one of the least visited, so you’ll have a unique experience for sure.

We do recommend spending the night near the park in either Ely or Baker, NV (Baker is really limited for lodging). If you’re not too sure how to make the drive to Great Basin and then not feel like you’ve just landed in the middle of nowhere, you can turn this adventure into a multi-day trip from Las Vegas by pairing Great Basin NP with Zion NP, then you can have double the fun!

Now that you know how many awesome options you have for things to do near Las Vegas and you see how accessible so many National Parks are, are you excited to plan a Southwest adventure? With each visit to Nevada, Arizona and Utah we find new and cool places that we just fall in love with. If you think you need to continue on and make your Vegas trip into a National Parks road trip, go for it! We have a few easy road trip plans from Las Vegas to National Parks:

• Vegas to Utah Parks Road Trip
• Utah National Parks Road Trip
• California National Parks Road Trip
• West Coast National Parks Road Trip through the Mountains

For any questions or if you want to leave your own suggestions, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to help others plan awesome travels to explore new places!

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

RED ROCK CANYON

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

VALLEY OF FIRE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GRAND CANYON

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

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

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

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

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

7 MAGIC MOUNTAINS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MOUNT CHARLESTON

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

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

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

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

DEATH VALLEY

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

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

ZION NATIONAL PARK

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

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

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

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

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

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The Ultimate Guide to Las Vegas in Winter (for 2023/2024)

Are you planning a trip to Las Vegas in the winter but unsure what activities there are to do? Well, despite being known for its warm weather, Vegas is teeming with fun and excitement even during the colder months. Visiting Las Vegas in winter can be a fun and action-packed experience.

While other areas of the United States are bundled up against blizzards and freezing temperatures, Las Vegas basks in pleasantly cool and mild conditions from December to February.

This guide will provide a comprehensive list of things to do in Las Vegas in winter – from adventurous outdoor pursuits to magical shows indoors – plus relevant travel tips. Ready for an unforgettable Vegas vacation? Read on to find out more!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Table of Contents

Las Vegas Winter Weather

Las Vegas winters are typically mild with daytime temperatures hovering around the mid-50s to high 60s (13°C-20°C).

Nighttime temps can drop into the upper 30s (-1°C) so it’s wise to pack a heavier coat for evenings out on the Strip.

Rain is rare, but you may encounter a few showers if you’re visiting in December or January, so having an umbrella handy isn’t a bad idea.

Average temperatures

When planning your trip to Las Vegas in the winter, it’s essential to understand the average temperatures for this time of year to pack appropriately.

Las Vegas has a desert climate, experiencing hot and dry weather most of the year, but winter temperatures can vary significantly. Below is a table detailing the average high and low temperatures during the winter months.

Even though it’s winter, most days tend to have relatively mild temperatures. However, be aware that nighttime temperatures can drop into the 30s°F, so don’t forget to bring a warm jacket for the evening time.

Precipitation

Las Vegas winter weather can be surprisingly wet. Though Las Vegas is known for its dry heat, the city does experience some precipitation during the winter months.

Remember, February is the rainiest month in Las Vegas with an average rainfall of 0.8 inches. It’s also important to note that this precipitation can sometimes come in the form of snow. It’s advisable to check for weather-related closures or changes in plans. 

Keep in mind that despite the potential for some rain or snow, there will still be plenty of dry days as well, as Las Vegas can experience months without any rain. The key is to be prepared and flexible with your plans when visiting Las Vegas in the winter.

Tips for dressing appropriately

Heading to Las Vegas in winter requires some forethought on attire. Here are some tips to ensure you’re dressed appropriately while visiting:

• Embrace layers. With fluctuating temperatures throughout the day, layering becomes your best friend.
• Keep a warm yet light jacket handy. It’s perfect for the chill outside and won’t overheat you indoors.
• Save long pants for evening outings. A pair of dark denim or black jeans is a good choice as they pair well with everything.
• Consider packing a leather jacket; not only does it keep you warm, but it’s also stylish.
• Stick to layering as your go-to style strategy not only for warmth but also versatility during your stay in Las Vegas during winter.
• Opt for comfortable attire whenever possible unless heading out for fancy dinners or club hopping.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas in the Winter

Choosing where to stay in Las Vegas can be a daunting task. When searching the options can seem endless and choosing the wrong hotel can cost you time and money. We have selected four great options to help narrow the search.

Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan sits conveniently in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip, a beacon of luxury and entertainment. Not only is it in the middle of the action, but it also provides some great winter activities for you to enjoy.

Imagine lacing up your skates and gliding across the ice rink perched high above the city lights or cozy up around fire pits with warm cocktails to fight off the chilly weather.

That’s not all; The Cosmopolitan doesn’t let winter put a damper on its vibrant pool scene. Even in colder months, they keep their Marquee Dayclub open for daytime swimming experiences soaked in opulence.

And if you’re ringing in the New Year here, prepare for grand celebrations that offer a unique perspective and unmatched luxury experience.

CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE

Fontainebleau

Skyrocketing 60 stories high, the Fontainebleau is a beacon of elegance and luxury on the Las Vegas Strip.

As the newest addition to the North end of the Las Vegas Strip, this $3.7 billion establishment will open its doors in December 2023 and promises to bring you an unforgettable experience.

With a modern interior designed by David Collins Studio, 35 restaurants, bars, and lounges, a state-of-the-art spa, and seven pools, Fontainebleau provides everything you need during your winter visit here in Las Vegas.

You may also feel a touch of familiarity if you’ve previously visited its sister property—the renowned Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel.

Located in Downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, the stunning Circa Las Vegas takes center stage when it comes to ideal winter stays. From the minute you step foot in this lavish hotel, there’s never a dull moment.

Circa boasts Stadium Swim – the ultimate Las Vegas winter pool destination open 365 days a year! It offers heated pools ensuring your swim remains uninterrupted by cold weather conditions.

Believe it or not, they also throw unforgettable hot tub parties called Winter Swim during the chilly months!

Red Rock Hotel, Spa and Casino

For those who want to escape the craziness of the Strip, the Red Rock Hotel, Spa, and Casino serves as an ideal winter sanctuary in Las Vegas.

Located just minutes from Red Rock National Conservation Area, Red Rock Hotel is the perfect home base for outdoor enthusiasts.

For those seeking to pamper themselves during their holiday trip, there’s an on-property spa that offers soothing massages along with various body treatments and facials.

The dining options cater to all tastes, while its casino keeps you entertained well into chilly Vegas nights.

Things to do in Las Vegas during Winter

Las Vegas sparkles with festive holiday decorations in winter. Indoor entertainment options abound, offering a respite from the chilly weather outside.

You could lose yourself in a world of shows, captivating museums, and art galleries peppered around the city.

There’s much to explore beyond the famed Las Vegas Strip, outdoor adventure is still in the cards with hiking, skiing, and sightseeing tours under clear blue winter skies. Indoors or outdoors, alone or with family and friends, you’re sure to find something that’ll make your heart race.

Here are our picks for some of the top things to do in Las Vegas in the winter months!

See the Winter Display at the Conservatory at the Bellagio

The Bellagio Conservatory transforms into a winter wonderland every December. This lush paradise, sprawling over 14,000 square feet and boasting more than 11,000 plants and flowers, becomes the home of glistening polar bears and charming seasonal decorations that perfectly capture the magnificence of winter.

Visited by 30,000 visitors per day, the Winter Display at the Conservatory at the Bellagio is an attraction you don’t want to miss during your next trip to Las Vegas.

Make sure you pencil it into your Las Vegas itinerary before January ends–that’s when this fascinating display wraps up for the season.

Hiking at Red Rock Canyon

Just a short drive from Las Vegas, you’ll find the natural wonder of Red Rock Canyon . It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with over 100 miles of picturesque hiking trails and 26 different hikes to explore.

The Calico Hills trail, which is one of the more popular trails, treks for about 7 miles with an intricate system of three individual parking areas with side trails to explore at your own pace.

For those craving more intensity on their adventure, Turtlehead Peak Trail will not disappoint with its challenging 5-mile journey offering panoramic views of Red Rock Canyon and Las Vegas itself!

See a Show or Concert

No winter trip to Las Vegas is complete without enjoying one of its iconic shows or concerts. Known as the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas buzzes with action-packed performances by world-renowned artists and entertainers. No wonder Las Vegas tops the list as one of the top 50th birthday trip ideas !

You could settle into a seat at Cirque du Soleil’s mesmerizing ‘O’ show, rock out with top headliners like Katy Perry, U2, or Adele, chuckle through an evening with Bill Maher, or relive classic performances at Legends in Concert and The Rat Pack show.

Each performance delivers a unique fusion of artistry and holiday spirit that will add unforgettable moments to your winter vacation in Las Vegas.

Take a Tour of a Snowy Grand Canyon

A tour of a snowy Grand Canyon definitely tops the list of exciting winter day trips from Las Vegas . This is by far one of the best national parks to visit in the winter !

The contrast between the white snow and sunlit canyon walls creates a breathtaking panorama, perfect for leisurely walks along the rim. 

This adventure isn’t something you have to do alone, tours are available to enhance your experience with fascinating insights about this natural wonder. Both the West Rim and South Rim stay open during the winter season. 

At the West Rim, check out the Skywalk attraction – a glass walkway suspended 4,000 feet above the canyon floor – it’s an exhilarating experience.

The South Rim offers its own delights with truly mesmerizing views across miles of snow-dusted landscapes.

👉 BOOK A TOUR HERE

Go on ATV Tours in the Mojave Desert

Winter is the perfect time to experience the thrill of a lifetime with an ATV tour in the Mojave Desert . With mild temperatures, you can enjoy the beauty of the Mojave Desert without baking in the summer sun.

You’ll find several tour options available, lasting anywhere from 1.5 hours to half a day for those who crave more action. Convenience is key as some tour operators offer pick-up services straight from Las Vegas hotels!

So whether you’re an amateur or pro rider, don’t miss out on this exhilarating desert adventure during your winter stay in Las Vegas!

Visit Museums and Exhibitions

Immerse yourself in a wealth of knowledge by exploring the many museums and exhibitions that Las Vegas has to offer.

Head over to the Nevada State Museum, where you’ll discover insightful exhibits reflecting on the history and culture of this unique state.

Alternatively, dive into some darker elements of Sin City’s past at The Mob Museum, offering intriguing details about Las Vegas’ notorious mob history.

Switching tracks, art aficionados can delight in contemporary works at Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art or the vibrant street murals downtown in the Arts District.

No matter your interests, these educational sites promise an enriching experience away from the bustling casinos and glitzy entertainment venues offering great things to do in winter in Las Vegas.

Do Some Shopping

Las Vegas during the winter months presents an unrivaled shopping experience. You’ll have access to a variety of shopping centers, outlets, and boutiques filled with luxury brands and affordable options.

Winter is a fabulous time to take advantage of superb discounts on holiday gifts at one of the two Outlet Malls or one of the many unique stores located up and down the Strip.

Enjoy Ice Skating at The Cosmopolitan

At the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Cosmopolitan transforms into a winter wonderland every year. A highlight is the massive 4,200-square-foot rooftop ice rink that overlooks the city’s spectacular skyline.

But that’s not all—after your skating session, savor some delicious seasonal food or cozy up by the fire while roasting s’mores.

Skate rentals range from $20 to $30 and you’ll have access to this frozen playground from November 15th to January 2nd. If you’re looking for Christmassy things to do in Las Vegas, this is it.

Take a Food Tour of Las Vegas

Plan to awaken your taste buds like never before by taking a food tour in Las Vegas. Experience gourmet cuisine at its finest and savor diverse flavors from upscale restaurants to hidden culinary gems.

Companies like Taste Buzz Food Tours and Lip Smacking Foodie Tours offer different tour options that introduce you to the city’s vibrant food culture.

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes glimpse into bustling kitchens and discover secret recipes while you learn about the creative process involved in curating exquisite menus at renowned establishments.

Sledding, Skiing, and Snowboarding at Mt Charleston

Just a 45-minute drive north of Las Vegas you’ll find a winter wonderland at Mt. Charleston. Explore the snowy peaks on skis or a snowboard at the Lee Canyon Ski & Snow Resort, with trails catering to all skill levels.

For those not into skiing or snowboarding, sledding, and tubing can be done at the Foxtail Group Picnic Area and the Old Mill Picnic Area.

However, stick to designated areas for safety as many slopes along state routes are unsuitable due to steepness and trees.

So pack up your winter gear and head towards Mt Charleston for an exciting day in the snow!

Visit the Downtown Container Park

A Vegas winter trip wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Downtown Container Park. Sitting at the corner of Fremont Street and S. 7th Street, this unique attraction turns shopping into a memorable adventure in its own right.

Constructed entirely from shipping containers, it houses 38 unique retail shops, and restaurants serving up delicious bites and bars pouring out refreshing drinks. And let’s not forget the 30-foot fire-breathing praying mantis at the entrance.

The Downtown Container Park also hosts live performances and has a large play area for children, making it more than just a place for retail therapy. A visit there is surely one of the best things to do in Vegas in winter.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year with a bang when spending winter in Las Vegas! Popular resorts such as Caesars Palace, Aria, and MGM Grand host unparalleled New Year’s Eve events guaranteed to make memories.

Think fireworks, glitz, glamour, and an electrifying atmosphere filled with festive cheer.

You don’t want to miss the breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the night sky – it’s characteristic of Las Vegas’ vibrant nature. Launched from multiple hotels, the night sky is illuminated the whole length of Las Vegas Blvd.

Amidst all these celebrations are casinos adorned with holiday decorations adding a dash of seasonal charm to your experience. This isn’t just another New Year’s party – this is Las Vegas-style revelry!

Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory Holiday Cactus Garden

Leave the high-energy buzz of Las Vegas behind for a sweet treat at Ethel M Chocolate Factory Holiday Cactus Garden.

Located a short drive away in Henderson, this unique destination merges the delight of handcrafted chocolates and a stunning desert garden. can you think of any better Las Vegas winter activities?

Over 300 species of cacti spread across three acres light up your night with over one million holiday lights.

Walking through the illuminated garden is free but add more pleasure to your visit by indulging in gourmet hot cocoa and premium wine tasting sessions.

It’s both an epicurean adventure and a visual feast that blends beautifully with Nevada’s winter season.

Visit the Valley of Fire

Roam the landscape of Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, the Valley of Fire. Less than an hour away from Las Vegas, this iconic destination will leave you enamored with its stunning red and orange rock formations.

You can hike along panoramic trails, observe ancient petroglyphs etched into sandstone structures, or embark on a scenic drive through the park.

The winter months provide a welcomed respite from searing summer temperatures, making for cool-weather adventures in this unique desert landscape.

Popular stops include the Fire Wave trail, Elephant Rock, and the Mouse Tanks trail. Be sure to stop by the Visitors Center for a map of the park and also to learn more about the history of the area.

Experience Death Valley

While visiting Las Vegas be sure to consider taking a day tour to Death Valley, one of the best national parks on the west coast . This stunning park, famous for its salt flats and sand dunes, also offers unique winter hikes such as Zabriskie Point Trail and Darwin Falls.

While summer temperatures can reach 125 degrees, winter is the perfect time to visit while the temperatures range in the 60 to 70 degree range.

During this season, trails leading to the canyons and other popular sights are much easier to reach.

Whether it is hiking through breathtaking trails or engaging in diverse outdoor activities, Death Valley promises a serene desert adventure away from the Las Vegas Strip’s glimmering lights!

Explore the City’s Unique Attractions

Las Vegas brims with many other unique attractions waiting to be explored on a warm winter day. For nature lovers, don’t miss out on Springs Preserve, home to botanical gardens and desert trails that provide an escape from the bustling city life.

If you’re up for a thrill ride or two, consider visiting AdventureDome at Circus Circus Hotel & Casino. This indoor theme park offers year-round entertainment and is even more enjoyable in wintertime when outdoor temperatures drop below comfortable levels.

Whether you seek holiday activities or just want some fun things to see and do in this vibrant city this season, Las Vegas won’t disappoint!

Reflections on Visiting Las Vegas in the winter

Indeed, Las Vegas offers a winter wonderland of festivities and excitement. Take pleasure in exploring the city that doesn’t hibernate but instead sparkles with enchanting attractions during the chilly season.

Dive into exciting activities or simply cozy up indoors; there’s always a unique adventure waiting for you in Vegas in the winter. So gear up and experience Las Vegas differently this winter – it will create memories to cherish forever!

7 Road Trip Itineraries From Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon

• Diverse Road Trip Options : Explore 7 unique road trip itineraries starting from Las Vegas, each offering a different experience, with stops including Boulder City, Williams, and the Grand Canyon.
• Flexible Travel : With itineraries varying in length, you can choose a road trip that suits your schedule, whether you have a day or several days to spare, ensuring a memorable journey through Sedona, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon.
• Convenient Starting Point : Las Vegas serves as a convenient travel hub, making it easy to begin your adventure through the Western United States, experiencing breathtaking landscapes including Utah's natural wonders, and the Tonto Basin.

There is something romantic about exploring Western United States by car. You become intimately acquainted with the landscape and get to see natural wonders up close and personally. Las Vegas is a popular travel hub, making it an easy place to begin your journey. This list outlines 7 road trips you can take from this eccentric city all the way to the idyllic Grand Canyon National Park!

It only takes about 4 hours to drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. But the space between these two destinations is full of scenic stops that are worth making a trip out of! Each of these 7 different itineraries will take you through the desert on an unforgettable trip. Each road trip itinerary varies in length, so you can choose what fits best for you. Whether you only have a day to travel or wish to spend several days on the road, we have an itinerary for you!

All of these itineraries are point-to-point and are ideal for car rentals. Each road trip terminates at the Grand Canyon, giving you the option to spend as much or as little time as you'd like there. You'll find it's easy to spend a few days exploring the park. Whether you spend time hiking its beautiful trails , spending a night camping inside the canyon, or just walking around the rim, you'll love the awe-inspiring views. After your time at the national park, you can simply backtrack to either Phoenix or Las Vegas to fly home.

How To Visit Canyon De Chelly National Monument On The Navajo Nation

A direct route with scenic stops, this direct route is the fastest way to get from las vegas to the grand canyon, with two stops along the way.

This route is the most direct one you can take from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon! The great thing about this road trip is that you can decide how long you want it to take - make the drive in a day or stretch it out over four.

No matter what you choose, start your trip in Sin City and enjoy unique experiences in the area . There are plenty of affordable hotels to book if you decide to stay the night. Next, take the drive to Boulder City, where you can experience a day of small-town charm. Visit the Hoover Dam , get fantastic views of Lake Mead from Hemenway Park, or check out the Nevada State Railroad Museum .

Before reaching the Grand Canyon, make a stop in Williams to enjoy attractions like Bearizona and the Canyon Coaster Adventure Park ! You can even take a scenic train ride to the Southern Rim . It's recommended you spend at least one night in Williams or at the hotels or campgrounds close to the Grand Canyon. This gives you a full day (or more!) to explore all the national park has to offer.

A Sedona And Flagstaff Adventure

Take a route that focuses on two of arizona's treasured towns.

If you love what you've heard about Sedona and Flagstaff, then this is the perfect route for you. This is a flexible route, allowing you to take as much or as little time as you'd like in these cities. The drive from Las Vegas to Sedona only takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes, making it easy to accomplish in a day.

There's a lot to discover on the road from Sedona to the Grand Canyon , so make sure you allow an appropriate amount of time to stop and see all the sights! This route is recommended for anyone hoping to mix in hiking and sightseeing when visiting these cities. It's also perfect for anyone on a time constraint or wanting to be conservative with trip mileage, as it is one of the shorter routes that is still jam-packed with attractions.

See Utah's Natural Wonders On This Road Trip

This longer point-to-point takes you north to see the magical beauty of utah.

Take the scenic route through Utah and explore the best that Mother Nature has to offer! This northern route takes you on a road trip through several beautiful conservation areas where you can see native flora, interesting rock structures, and desert wildlife.

Next, head over to the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area to see the mesmerizing red rocks that constitute this habitat. In this quiet, natural space, you'll be walking the same path as the dinosaurs . There are plenty of hikes in this area around St. George, Utah , if you're looking to stretch your legs! After all these conservation areas, you'll make a stop in Big Water, where you can explore the southern area of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The Big Water Visitors' Center is worth checking out, with its dinosaur theme and paleontology exhibits.

On the last day, you'll make the final push to the Grand Canyon, where you can explore all the stunning beauty this national park has to offer. This route is perfect for people who are looking to camp, or perhaps interested in renting an RV.

Since the national conservation areas are located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, you can often find free campsites. This is a perfect, budget-friendly travel hack for anyone driving an RV or a car they don't mind sleeping in. Check out the BLM's website for more details.

Explore National Monuments On This Road Trip

Discover arizona's treasures between phoenix and the grand canyon.

Start your journey by driving directly to Phoenix. This three to five-day road trip includes many beautiful stops to enjoy between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon! Featuring two fantastic national monuments, as well as 3 cities, this route has attractions that everyone in the family will love. Explore our in-depth guide on how best to experience this route !

Between Phoenix, Sedona, and Flagstaff, you'll have ample options for high-quality places to stay. This is a perfect route for anyone looking to sleep primarily in hotels.

A 6-Day Road Trip With A Stop In Lake Havasu City

Check out these amazing cities on your way to the grand canyon.

For those looking to travel in comfort and style, this city-focused route is the one for you! Explore 4 cities, in addition to Las Vegas, on your way to the Grand Canyon.

After a day in Las Vegas, your first stop will be at Lake Havasu City. This desert oasis is full of activities like hiking, shopping, and water sports and is sure to quench your thirst for adventure!

Next, you'll head over to Phoenix, Arizona, where you'll find ample ways to spend your time. This city is so big, you might even want to spend two nights here. Since this is a road trip, make sure you don't miss out on the scenic drives in the area !

Next, you'll head back north to Sedona, where you can get in touch with your spirituality and explore the stunning natural areas. It's worth it to spend some time here exploring the surrounding trails, as well as the local eateries and shopping.

Before reaching the Grand Canyon, you'll make one last stop in Flagstaff. This hidden gem of a city provides visitors with lots of family-friendly activities, breweries, natural attractions, and so much more . As it is only 75 miles from the Grand Canyon, it provides an easy jumping-off point for you to explore the national park.

10 Things To Do In Lake Havasu City: Complete Guide To This Desert Oasis

See the tonto basin along this road trip, take this southern route to experience 2 of arizona's national forests.

After your day in Las Vegas, take the drive straight to Phoenix, Arizona. Starting your trip in this city provides you with a great, comfortable place to prepare for your two days in the national forests.

Next is Tonto Basin, where you'll find ample trails that wind through the stunning, picturesque landscape . Spend a night under the stars at one of the free campsites if you're on a budget. Of course, if camping isn't your cup of tea, hotel accommodations are available in Tonto Basin!

For your final stop before the Grand Canyon, you'll be exploring the forests that surround Flagstaff. Make sure you travel in the spring or fall to see the stunning natural beauty in full bloom. In the fall, the aspen trees turn a bright yellow, creating an eye-catching mountain range blooming with color. The Lockett Meadow Inner Basin Loop is a popular trail where you can see these trees on display.

See The 7 Wonders Of Arizona On This Road Trip

Explore grand staircase-escalante national monument on this road trip, hit two national parks, as well as a national monument and an epic river town where you can see additional canyons.

This route is our longest, but it is a road trip worth the time. This route will take you through Bryce Canyon National Park, a landscape that is full of geological wonders. The entrance costs $25-35 , so it might be worth it to spend a night or two inside the park. There are plenty of unforgettable hikes you can take to fill your time over two to three days!

Next, you'll reach Escalante to explore the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Here, you can explore the visitor's center , as well as the expansive natural spaces in the surrounding forest. If you plan ahead and get a permit to hike the Wave Trail , you'll experience otherworldly views amid the red rocks.

A little more than a four-hour drive will bring you down to Lake Powell, where you'll definitely want to spend some time exploring the area. This stunning landscape is home to the Antelope Canyon , another natural attraction that is famous for a reason. This slot canyon holds inexplicable beauty and is definitely worth seeing! Lake Powell is the second-largest artificial lake in America and is worth exploring for a day or two.