20 Awesome Attractions Outside of Las Vegas to Visit
If you're heading to Las Vegas, you might be tempted to stay in Sin City for the entire trip, but I'd like to invite you to visit some attractions outside of Las Vegas. There are impressive attractions just outside the bright lights and slot machines.
There are plenty of national parks, state parks, and scenic drives that are worthy of a road trip!
We love using the Las Vegas area as a hub for exploring some of the best places in the Southwest. We typically visit in the spring or fall seasons to avoid the extreme temperatures during the summer.
Below, I share some of the most popular attractions within 3 hours of Las Vegas.
1-Hour or Less from Las Vegas:
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada
Red Rock Canyon is near Las Vegas and features stunning red rock formations and a scenic 13-mile drive. The area offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.
The towering red sandstone cliffs and unique geology make it a popular place.
Don't be like us and miss out on visiting because you didn't get a timed entry pass! Timed entry reservations are required between October 1 – May 31 for entry between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m
Distance: 17 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes by car
Cost: Entry fee required, $20 per vehicle (day pass)
Hoover Dam and the Black Canyon, Nevada/Arizona
The Hoover Dam, situated on the Colorado River, is an engineering marvel – which geeks me out since I'm a civil engineer. This massive structure controls flooding and generates hydroelectric power.
The surrounding Black Canyon offers breathtaking views. A few tour options are available. Check out this itinerary for a Las Vegas day trip to the Hoover Dam.
Distance: 35 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by car
Cost: Several tour options available, starting around $10 per person
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada/Arizona
Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the U.S., is located in Nevada and Arizona. It offers various recreational activities, like boating, fishing, and swimming. The area also has scenic drives, hiking trails, and beaches.
Explore the diverse landscapes and enjoy water sports on this expansive lake. We stopped to picnic at Lake Mead after a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam.
Distance: 24 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes by car
Cost: $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or use the annual National Park Service pass
Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Valley of Fire State Park is known for its red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs. Hiking trails lead to stunning viewpoints and rock formations such as Elephant Rock and the Fire Wave.
If you enjoy seeing petroglyphs, be sure to check out the atlatl rock near the entrance. Use this day guide for Valley of Fire for a done-for-you plan for the day.
Distance: 50 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour by car
Cost: $10 per vehicle
Boulder City, Nevada
Boulder City, located 26 miles from Las Vegas, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The town's rich history, charming parks, and recreational activities provide you a serene and relaxing experience.
Distance: 26 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes by car
Cost: No entrance fee to the town; various attractions have their own fees
Nelson Ghost Town, Nevada
Located south of Boulder City, Nelson Ghost Town offers a glimpse into Nevada's mining history. The site features old buildings, mining equipment, and vintage vehicles.
It's popular for photography, exploring the remnants of a mining town that once thrived, and because it looks like a movie set.
Distance: 44 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 50 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit, but guided tours of the mines are available for a fee
Seven Magic Mountains, Nevada
Seven Magic Mountains is a popular public art installation in the desert about 30 minutes south of Las Vegas. It was created by artist Ugo Rondinone and features seven towering stacks of colorful boulders.
The vibrant artwork stands out against the desert backdrop and is a fun spot for photography.
Distance: 21 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit
Mount Charleston, Nevada
Mount Charleston, located in the Spring Mountains, offers a cool retreat from the desert heat of Las Vegas. The area features hiking trails, picnic spots, and a ski resort.
The pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife create a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
Distance: 35 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit; activity costs vary
Primm, Nevada
Primm, located on the Nevada-California border, features casino resorts, shopping outlets, and the thrilling attractions of the Desperado Roller Coaster.
The town serves as a gateway to both Las Vegas and California. It's a convenient stop for gaming, dining, and entertainment.
Distance: 40 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes by car
Cost: No entry fee; costs vary for individual attractions
1-2 Hours from Las Vegas:
Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park, known for being North America's hottest and driest place, features unique landscapes like salt flats, sand dunes, and canyons. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and explore Furnace Creek.
Despite extreme temperatures, the park's beauty attracts many visitors. Read this article for the perfect way to spend time at Death Valley.
Distance: 125 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours by car
Cost: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or use the annual National Park Service pass
Pahrump, Nevada
Pahrump provides a laid-back alternative to the hustle of Las Vegas, with wineries, golf courses, and the Spring Mountain Motor Resort. It's also a gateway to outdoor adventures in nearby wilderness areas.
The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the popular Pahrump Balloon Festival, which fills the sky with colorful hot-air balloons.
Distance: 60 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit; specific attractions may have their own fees
Laughlin, Nevada
Laughlin, located on the banks of the Colorado River, offers casino resorts, riverfront activities, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's an excellent destination for boating, fishing, and jet skiing.
The Riverwalk provides scenic views and access to various entertainment and dining options along the river.
Distance: 100 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit; costs vary for individual attractions and activities
Snow Canyon State Park, Utah
Snow Canyon State Park, located near St. George, Utah, offers a dramatic and captivating landscape of red sandstone cliffs, volcanic cones, and layers of ancient lava flows.
The park is a hidden gem with hiking trails, a paved walking trail, and equestrian trails. You can explore sand dunes, natural arches, and caves or go rock climbing and biking.
The park's relatively mild winter climate makes it an excellent year-round destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Distance: 120 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours by car
Cost: $10 per vehicle
Kingman, Arizona
Kingman is a classic stop along Historic Route 66 and serves as a gateway to the heart of the historic American highway. The town features museums like the Route 66 Museum, which captures the spirit of the “Mother Road.”
Kingman is also surrounded by natural beauty, offering hiking and historic sites nearby, such as the Hualapai Mountains.
Distance: 100 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car
Cost: Free to visit; museum entry and other activity costs vary
Tecopa, California
Tecopa, known for its natural hot springs, provides a peaceful retreat in the Mojave Desert. You can enjoy natural mineral hot springs, explore local hiking trails, or visit nearby attractions like the China Ranch Date Farm.
Tecopa's serene environment makes it ideal for a tranquil retreat from city life.
Distance: 90 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Cost: Free to explore; fees for hot springs and other amenities vary
2-3 Hours from Las Vegas:
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park, located in southern Utah, is known for its towering cliffs, deep canyons, and scenic beauty.
The park has incredible hiking opportunities, like The Narrows, which takes you through narrow canyons, and Angels Landing, which offers panoramic views from its summit.
Distance: 160 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
Cost: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, or use the annual National Park Service pass
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southeastern California, is famous for its unique Joshua Trees and rugged rock formations. The park is named after the region's twisted, bristled Joshua trees.
It straddles the Mojave and Colorado deserts and offers hiking, rock climbing, and camping opportunities. Due to its clear, dark skies, the park is also a fantastic place for stargazing.
Distance: 180 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car
Cost: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
Brian Head, Utah
Brian Head is known for its family-friendly ski resort in the winter and a cool retreat for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the summer.
The town sits at an elevation that provides relief from the desert heat and offers scenic vistas of red rock and alpine forests.
Don't miss Cedar Breaks National Monument – depending on the season (it's a ghost town due to the snow in the winter).
Brian Head is an excellent place to stay overnight if you want to venture to Bryce Canyon National Park.
Distance: 200 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car
Cost: Free to visit; costs vary for resort activities
Calico Ghost Town, California
Calico Ghost Town is located in the Mojave Desert. Founded in 1881 during the largest silver strike in California, It offers the chance to explore its history through mine tours, gunfight performances, and numerous shops and restaurants.
Distance: 150 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
Cost: $8 per person for entry
Grand Canyon's West Rim, Arizona
The West Rim of the Grand Canyon offers awe-inspiring views and thrilling experiences, such as the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon.
Helicopter tours and rafting trips on the Colorado River provide unique perspectives of this natural wonder.
The West Rim also includes points like Eagle Point and Guano Point, which provide panoramic views and photo opportunities of the vast canyon.
If you want to extend your journey, here are some stops to make on the way to Grand Canyon South, East, and North!
Distance: 130 miles from Las Vegas
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
Cost: Entry fees vary; the Skywalk experience has an additional cost, and helicopter and rafting tours are priced separately
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Las Vegas offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities just outside the city. Whether you're into hiking, water sports, rock climbing, or horseback riding, there's something for everyone.
Hiking Opportunities
Mount Charleston is a top choice for hikers. You can explore many great hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The Mary Jane Falls Trail is one of the most popular hikes, offering a refreshing waterfall and stunning forest views.
You might also spot some desert bighorn sheep along your hike. Don't forget to pack a picnic and enjoy one of the many picnic areas available.
Water Sports and Boating
Lake Las Vegas is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis to explore the lake's calm waters. Boating is also popular, providing a relaxing way to take in the scenic views.
Fishing is another enjoyable activity at the lake. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Rock Climbing Excursions
Red Rock Canyon is famous for its challenging rock climbing routes. The area features sandstone cliffs that attract climbers from all over. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there's a route for you.
If you're new to the sport, guided climbing tours are available. These tours provide gear and expert advice for a safe and exciting climb.
Horseback Riding
Experience the desert landscape on horseback. Various stables around Las Vegas offer horseback riding excursions. You can choose from short rides to full-day adventures, exploring the beautiful desert scenery.
A ride through the desert provides a unique way to see the area's wildlife and plants. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll feel like a true cowboy or cowgirl.
Leisure Activities Just Outside the City
Plenty of activities near Las Vegas offer scenic views, unique experiences, and a break from the city hustle.
Road Tripping Scenic Drives
Explore fantastic landscapes on various scenic drives just a short distance from Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon offers stunning rock formations and hiking opportunities.
Lake Mead offers another beautiful route, with lake views and nearby mountains. Valley of Fire State Park is less than an hour's drive and showcases vibrant red sandstone formations.
- Red Rock Canyon: 30-min drive
- Lake Mead: Beautiful lake views
- Valley of Fire: Vibrant sandstone formations
Golfing in the Desert
There are several exceptional golf courses in the desert surrounding Las Vegas. These courses offer challenging play and picturesque views.
Bear's Best Las Vegas, designed by Jack Nicklaus, features holes modeled after famous courses. TPC Las Vegas offers a PGA Tour experience. Both are within a short drive of the city, making them easily accessible for a quick round.
- Bear's Best: Designed by Jack Nicklaus
- TPC Las Vegas: PGA Tour experience
Helicopter Tours: A Bird's-Eye View
Helicopter tours provide a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes around Las Vegas. For example, you can take a guided tour over the Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views you can't get from the ground.
Another popular option is a flight over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Las Vegas Strip at sunset. These tours typically last 2-4 hours and provide an unforgettable experience.
- Grand Canyon: Unseen views
- Hoover Dam, Lake Mead: Sunset flights available
Free and Budget-Friendly Attractions
Several attractions outside of Las Vegas offer plenty of opportunities for families and nature lovers to have a great time without spending much money.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ethel M Chocolate Factory: This factory offers free tours in Henderson. You can see how chocolates are made and visit their cactus garden, which is perfect for kids and adults. The hot chocolate is fantastic!
Clark County Museum: This museum charges a minimal entry fee and features exhibits about Nevada's history. It also preserves homes and buildings from different eras.
Town Square Las Vegas: A great place to visit with kids. It has free events, a playground, and splash pads to enjoy during the hotter months.
Enjoying Nature for under $10
Mount Charleston: A fantastic place for a nature escape. You can enjoy the scenic views, hike trails, and even camp without spending too much.
Spring Mountains Ranch: This state park is excellent for hiking and bird-watching. The low entrance fee makes it a great budget-friendly option for nature lovers.
Final Thoughts: Attractions Outside of Las Vegas
When you think about Las Vegas, you might picture the Strip. Yet, there is so much more to see just outside the city. Each place above offers a unique experience that contrasts with the bustling city, making them well worth a visit.
Related Posts:
One Perfect Day at Death Valley from Las Vegas
13 Road Trips from Las Vegas: Top Scenic Destinations
Las Vegas to Valley of Fire State Park Day Trip Guide
Las Vegas to Hoover Dam: Day Trip Visiting Guide
The Perfect Zion National Park Day Trip from Las Vegas
Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon: Guide with Day Trip Itinerary
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