short road trips from las vegas

5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

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If you can find a free weekend or a few extra days, you can take a spectacular road trip from Las Vegas . Sin City has the convenience of being close to several top attractions, cities, and national parks, so don’t miss your chance to explore the great American West!

You can plan a road trip itinerary using our guides on national parks near Las Vegas and things to do outside Las Vegas . However, this article gives you the best Las Vegas road trips to maximize time and mileage. I’ll share 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10-day Las Vegas road trip itineraries so you can find the perfect one for your schedule.

In summary, these are the best road trips from Vegas :

• Grand Canyon , the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas
• Los Angeles , a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas
• San Francisco , one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California
• Monument Valley , one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona
• Arches National Park , the ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

Also, before setting off on your weekend getaway from Las Vegas , you’ll want reliable transportation. I suggest reading my guide on renting a car in Las Vegas or, for the ultimate experience, renting an RV in Las Vegas or campervan rentals in Las Vegas .

1. Grand Canyon, the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas

♦   576 miles, 9 hrs total driving – 2 days, 1 night – Out & back

Taking a road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas .

Right outside Las Vegas, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , where you can spend a few hours. Take a tour of this significant landmark and check the attractions nearby.

Continue towards Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim. While it’s a slower route, to get there I recommend taking historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman. Once in the Grand Canyon National Park you can check its famous viewpoints, restaurants, and beautiful hiking routes.

The park is open 24/7, and the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. If you have more time, I have some ideas for extending your Las Vegas road trip to the Grand Canyon South Rim .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 300 miles, 5 hrs.

Get an early start, so you have time to visit Hoover Dam and Boulder City. Then, continue your road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The scenic route is via Route 66, between Kingman and Seligman. This way, you’ll see Angel & Vilma’s Gift Shop, famous restaurants like Mr. D’z 66 Diner, the Grand Canyon caverns near Peach Springs, and the Mohave Museum.

Once at Grand Canyon Village, you can take one of the shuttles to popular lookouts like Hopi Point (it has the perfect sunset views). The Rim Trail, which circles the South Rim, is a great hike to do as a family.

• Recommended accommodations: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn and The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon are great, or consult our guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon .

Day 2 – 280 miles, 4 hrs 15 mins

The best way to start your second day is with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour . It’s an amazing way to see the canyon, and we have an entire guide on the top 6 flight tours.

After your helicopter ride, take the free shuttle to one of the lookout points around the South Rim. You can also visit interesting places like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the Tusayan Ruins and Museum before heading back to Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Any of the best hotels in Las Vegas will be great for an overnight stay.

VEGAS ROAD TRIP ALTERNATIVES

One extra day.

Use your extra day in the Grand Canyon to visit the West Rim . Here, you can see the Skywalk, a glass balcony that hangs over the edge of the canyon. Visiting the West Rim adds 90 miles and 2 hrs 15 mins of driving.

Two extra days

A couple of extra days at the Grand Canyon means you can hike the Bright Angel Trail , one of the top hikes in the canyon. The path starts at Grand Canyon Village and descends over 4,360 feet into the canyon.

The route is 16 miles round-trip, so you’ll need 2 days to do it. It’s best to hike to the bottom. Camp there overnight, then make the ascent back to the South Rim.

Three extra days

If you have three more days in this area, you can make the trek to Havasu Falls. The falls are part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so you must make reservations in advance.

To get to the trailhead, take Route 66 toward Peach Spring. Continue for about 130 miles and turn right onto Indian Road 18. This road leads to the Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot.

From there, you can hike the Havasupai Falls Trail to the waterfalls, which aren’t far from the Havasupai Campground .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

2. Hollywood, a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

♦ 350 miles, 6 hrs 15 mins total driving – 3 days, 2 nights – One-way

When planning a road trip from Las Vegas , consider California. This state is full of gorgeous landscapes, enjoyable cities, and, of course, beaches. My itinerary is for a 3-day road trip from Las Vegas to Hollywood, but you can add more days and take a Vegas road trip to San Diego too.

On this car trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas , you’ll take a pitstop to 7 Magic Mountains before visiting Mojave National Preserve . The preserve has some of the best night skies in the country, so I highly recommend camping overnight.

Then, head to Joshua Tree National Park and see the wide range of desert flora there. Check out the Cholla Cactus Garden and stay overnight in the park before waking up early for day 3.

The last stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is Los Angeles , where you can find unlimited things to do. If you have more time, extend your stay in LA, or drive down to San Diego.

Keep in mind that the end point of this route is different from the starting point. So, when setting up your rental, consider any extra fees for returning the car in a different location and book two one-way flights.

3-day Las Vegas road trip itinerary

Day 1 – 97 miles, 2 hrs.

This  Las Vegas road trip to California  begins with a quick stop at  7 Magic Mountains . This colorful art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone is a nice photo op along the Las Vegas Freeway.

Then, drive the hour or so to  Mojave National Preserve , one of the most amazing destinations between Vegas and LA. Rather than drive through it, take time to appreciate the area, especially the Kelso Dunes and the ancient Mojave Lava Tube. The volcanic tunnel is over 1300 feet long and casts impressive light rays in the afternoon.

One of the most popular things to do here is to hike the Rings Loop Trail, which is a little over a mile long. You’ll see that Mojave National Preserve has lots of Joshua Trees; it actually has the highest density of these trees in the world, even more than Joshua Tree National Park!

• Recommended accommodation:  Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

Day 2 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 15 mins

The next day, make the short drive to  Joshua Tree National Park , which is also in the Mojave Desert. This park is known for its unique landscape of Joshua trees and gravity-defying rock formations.

That said, one of the best sights in Joshua Tree is the  Cholla Cactus Garden . You can take the circular walking trail through the garden of brittlebush, desert lavender, and several species of cacti.

• Recommended accommodations:  Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Yucca Valley  or  High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3 – 130 miles, 2 hrs

The last stop on this  3-day road trip from Las Vegas  is  Los Angeles . Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of tours and activities, so check our guide on to  things to do in Los Angeles  for some ideas.

Everyone likes popular attractions like the  Hollywood Sign  and the  Walk of Fame . Perhaps you’d prefer one of the beaches, like  Santa Monica  or  Malibu . Film buffs can check out the famous  Hollywood studios and theaters , while shopaholics can hit  Rodeo Drive .

• Recommended accommodations:  InterContinental – Los Angeles Downtown  is nice, and we have a guide on  where to stay in Los Angeles

Vegas road trip alternatives

One day short.

If you must cut your trip short one day, skip Mojave and go straight to Joshua Tree. It’ll save you 25 miles and 45 minutes of driving.

An extra day means you can spend two days in LA, which is great because there are so many  things to do in Los Angeles  and Hollywood.

Add two more days to your itinerary, and you can take a  Vegas road trip to San Diego . It adds 120 miles and one hour of driving, and you can see fabulous beaches like La Jolla Cove.

3-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

3. San Francisco, one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California

♦ 630 miles, 12 hrs 30 mins total driving – 4 days, 3 nights – One-way

Note: This route can only be completed when Tioga Road is open; check dates.

This 4-day road trip from Las Vegas is action-packed and starts with a visit to Red Rock Canyon . Then, you’ll head to Death Valley , where you can see the famous Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, and other sights.

Then, you can witness the unique landscapes of Alabama Hills , Hot Creek , and Mono Lake before stopping at Yosemite National Park . This is a must-see on any road trip from Las Vegas to California since Yosemite is full of hiking routes, waterfalls, lookouts, and other landmarks.

The last stop is San Francisco , an amazing city by the bay with all kinds of attractions. Not only is the city surrounded by beautiful natural places, but San Fran itself is tons of fun. Check out iconic areas like Nob Hill, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. Besides that, there are museums, historic buildings, neighborhoods, and architectural monuments to behold.

With all of the stops along the way, this is the best road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco !

4-day road trip itinerary from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 130 miles, 2 hrs 30 mins.

The first stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is right outside Sin City. You’ll start by exploring Red Rock Canyon , known for its fiery rock formations and ancient pictographs. You can check out the sights along the Scenic Loop Drive or do one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock .

Then, you’ll make your way to Death Valley , California , one of the largest national parks in the country. Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of attractions and points of interest, like the Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin , the lowest point in the U.S. There are also hiking trails to overlooks like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at The Ranch at Death Valley or check out our guide on where to stay in Death Valley

Day 2 – 230 miles, 4 hrs

Outside Death Valley, there is the town of Lone Pine, a great intermediary between Death Valley and Mt. Whitney. Here, you must see the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you’ve ever seen a western film, you’ll recognize the landscape of Alabama Hills. Check out scenic Movie Road and the famous Mobius Arch , which perfectly frames the mountain range in the distance.

Later, make the drive to Hot Creek Geological Site , a gorge with bubbling turquoise hot springs. Magma mixes with the cool waters of Hot Creek to heat the thermal pools, which you can hike past for a closer look.

Day 2 of this 4-day road trip from La Vegas ends with a visit to nearby Mono Lake . This saline lake offers lovely views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, as well as hiking and kayaking.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend a restful night at Lake View Lodge near Mono Lake.

Day 3 – 80 miles, 2 hrs

Get an early start in the morning so you can make the long drive to Yosemite National Park . You can stop by Yosemite Village and the Visitor Center for trail maps and info, then decide what to do.

I will say that some of the best things to see here are El Capitan , which is over 7,500 feet tall, and the Half Dome , another granite formation that’s over 8,800 feet tall. The park also has the highest waterfall in the U.S., Yosemite Falls , which is 2,425 feet tall.

There are other waterfalls in the park, as well as lakes and overlooks. You can see some of these while traveling along Glacier Point Road . Also, it’s worth seeing Tuolumne Grove , a giant sequoia forest. Of course, there is lots more to see here, including wildlife and beautiful hiking trails, so check our guide!

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge or one of the places in our guide on where to stay in Yosemite

Day 4 – 190 miles, 4 hrs

Finally, this Las Vegas road trip ends in San Francisco , one of the most enjoyable cities in the country. There is a little bit of everything here, so it’s well worth the drive.

This bay city is known for its relaxed environment and landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , and Nob Hill . One of the most iconic things to do here is to take a cable car past notable sights like Chinatown and Russian Hill .

San Francisco is full of museums, unique neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and natural areas like forests, gardens, and beaches. So, be sure to read our guide so you can plan your perfect day in the city.

• Recommended accommodations: The Handlery Union Square Hotel is a nice downtown accommodation, or you can check our article on where to stay in San Francisco

Vegas car trip alternatives

If you can add more days to your  road trip from Las Vegas to California , you can see even more incredible things along the way. Here are some ideas to consider if you have more time.

If you have an extra day, you can spend more time in  Yosemite . You could easily spend three days in the park since there is so much to do there. The  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail  is a gorgeous 7-hour route, and  Tunnel View  is an iconic lookout point.  Mirror Lake  and  Mariposa Grove  are two other lovely spots, and the  Taft Point-Sentinel Dome  hike is a must-do if you have the time.

Another option if you have one more day is to spend more time in  San Francisco . You could even spend a week here and not get bored. So, it’s up to you if you want to see nearby natural attractions or explore the city.

With two extra days, you can spend more time in  Yosemite  or  San Francisco  and take a detour to  Lake Tahoe . A visit to the largest alpine lake in the U.S. adds 150 miles (2 hrs 45 mins) of driving.

Here, you can do different kinds of water sports or visit one of the ski resorts. Lake Tahoe also offers excellent hiking trails like the  Tahoe Rim Trail  and  Eagle Lake .

4-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

4. Monument Valley, one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona

♦ 900 miles, 16 hrs 20 mins total driving – 5 days, 4 nights – Loop

This 5-day road trip from Las Vegas has lots of interesting stops, so be prepared. As you leave Vegas, pay a visit to the Valley of Fire , and walk among the dazzling geological formations.

Then, spend a day exploring Zion National Park and some of the hiking routes and viewpoints there. Next, this road trip from Las Vegas goes to Arizona , where you’ll see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon . You’ll definitely want your camera for these two incredibly scenic places!

The next stop on this road trip from Las Vegas is Monument Valley , an area full of mesas, buttes, and stunning starry skies. Finally, you’ll head to the Grand Canyon , where you can hike along the canyon’s rim or even take a helicopter tour.

As you make your way back to Vegas, take historic Route 66 . It’s a bit longer, but it’s more scenic. As you get closer to Sin City, you can pass through Boulder City and check out the Hoover Dam , too.

5-DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 180, 3 hrs 30 mins.

This  road trip from Las Vegas  begins with a stop at the  Valley of Fire , one of the best hiking spots right outside Sin City. Some of the  most popular hikes in Valley of Fire  include the  Fire Wave Trail  and  Petroglyph Canyon Trail .

Besides hiking, you can do the  Scenic Drive  at Valley of Fire, which goes past some famous landmarks. While the park is known for its fiery rock formations, it also has colorful attractions like the  Rainbow Vista  and  Pink Canyon . Plus, this can be a  fun road trip from Las Vegas  to do with kids. They’ll love the  petroglyphs ,  Elephant Rock , and the  Fire Cave .

After spending some time at Valley of Fire, drive a few hours northeast to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations:  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  is comfortable and cheap, but we also have a guide on  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 120 miles, 2 hrs 20 mins

Day 2 of this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary  is dedicated to exploring  Zion National Park . We have an article about all the things to do in Zion, but I’ll tell you some of the most popular activities if you only have one day.

As I said, the hiking trails here are amazing, so check out  Angel’s Landing ,  The Narrows , or  The Subway . The family-friendly  Lower Emerald Pools  trail is also worth doing. Also, Zion has excellent starry skies, and you can get iconic views from the  Court of the Patriarchs  lookout point.

If you take the  Zion Scenic Drive , you’ll see the  Visitor Center and Museum ,  Court of the Patriarchs ,  The Grotto ,  Weeping Rock ,  Big Bend , and  Temple of Sinawava.

After Zion, head to Page, Arizona, and get some rest for another action-packed day.

• Recommended accommodations:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  is one of the best, or you can check out our guide on  where to stay in Page

Day 3 – 120 miles, 2 hrs

As you continue your  5-day road trip from Las Vegas , make a quick stop at  Horseshoe Bend . This horseshoe-shaped meander stands nearly 1,000 feet tall and has an imposing presence you have to see to believe. The view from Horseshoe Bend is incredible at sunrise or sunset, but even if you can’t visit then, it’s still beautiful.

Another great thing about Horseshoe Bend is that it’s a very short drive from  Antelope Canyon . We have an article about how to photograph the canyon and which part to visit. I will tell you that if you go to the Upper section in summer in the middle of the day, you can see the famous  light beams  coming through the canyon walls.

Also, be aware that since Antelope Canyon is within the  Navajo Indian Reservation , you must take a tour. A Navajo guide will take you through the canyon and tell you about the geological and cultural history of the area, and you’ll see the canyon’s undulating structure for yourself!

After spending time at Antelope Canyon, drive the two hours to  Monument Valley  and get some rest for Day 4 of this  road trip from Las Vegas .

• Recommended accommodations:  Goulding’s Lodge  is among the most popular, or you can book one of the places in our  where to stay in Monument Valley  guide

Day 4 – 180 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Get an early start in the morning and check out  Monument Valley . One of the best things to do here is to take the  Scenic Drive  past fascinating formations. You’ll see  Elephant Butte , the  Three Sisters ,  John Ford’s Point ,  The Thumb , and several other landmarks.

You can also hike the  Wildcat Trail  and capture superb photos at lookout points like  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  and  Artist’s Point .

Be sure to budget enough time to drive to the  Grand Canyon  from Monument Valley since it takes over 3 hours, and you’ll want to rest up for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations:  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Day 5 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Spend the last day of this  road trip from Las Vegas at the Grand Canyon . Start at  Grand Canyon Village , which is at the  South Rim . From there, you can take one of the shuttles to the  South Kaibab Trail  or  Hermit Road where you can find beautiful viewpoints like Yavapai and Yaki Point  on the Kaibab Rim Route or  Hopi Point  on the Hermit Road Route.

If you want to make your visit extra special, take a  helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon  and see this natural wonder from a birds-eye view.

When it’s time to head back to Sin City, take the return trip via  Route 66 . This way, you’ll pass the most iconic part of this famous highway, then you can stop at  Boulder City  and visit  Hoover Dam .

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS ROAD TRIP alternatives

If you’re short on time, you can skip Monument Valley and save 150 miles (about 2.5 hours) of driving.

If you have time, you can make this a  6-day road trip from Las Vegas . You could spend a day in  Bryce Canyon  or check out  Sedona and Red Rock Country .

Bryce Canyon National Park is a short drive from Zion and is known for its incredible hoodoos and rock formations. It adds 120 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Meanwhile, Red Rock Country is in the Oak Creek area of Sedona and has a distinct canyon landscape. Some of the most photographed sights here include  Oak Creek Canyon , Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and  Tuzigoot National Monument . It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

If you have two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway . Phoenix is home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

Alternatively, two extra days can give you the  best road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon . You’ll have enough time to hike the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camp at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Along with a lodge, you’ll find the  Havasu Falls Trailhead , which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

5-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

5. Arches, the best 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

♦ 1,545 miles, 31 hrs total driving – 10 days, 9 nights – Loop

This ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas begins with a stop at the Valley of Fire , where you can take the scenic drive (Mouse’s Tank) past the Rainbow Vista, Arch Rock, and other impressive formations.

The next day, you can visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks for amazing lookout points, hikes, and geological monuments. Speaking of which, this road trip from Las Vegas to Utah also includes the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . Spanning 1.8 million acres, this natural wonder sits between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , another national park on this itinerary.

Capitol Reef offers excellent hiking and backpacking, and it’s about an hour from Goblin Valley State Park , an awesome place in Utah for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

Two other national parks you’ll see are Arches and Canyonlands , which have thousands of natural arches between them. The tail-end of this Las Vegas road trip includes stops at Monument Valley , Antelope Canyon , Horseshoe Bend , and the Grand Canyon , which I’ve mentioned earlier.

Finally, as you make your way back to Vegas, you can visit Boulder City and Hoover Dam .

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 185 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins.

The  distance from Vegas  to  Valley of Fire  is about 45 miles, so this state park is the first stop. It’s a great place to hike outside Sin City, especially since there are trails for all levels. Not only that, but each route takes you past some incredible sights, like the  Fire Wave ,  Pink Canyon , and  Balanced Rock .

After exploring this red sandstone playground, get back in the car and make your way to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  or check our guide to  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 85 miles, 2 hrs

As one of the top  road trip ideas from Las Vegas , you can’t miss  Zion National Park . That said, if you only have one day there, you must prioritize.

I recommend doing a hike, such as  Angel’s Landing , which takes about 4 hours and leads to an amazing 360° viewpoint. Other photographic spots in Zion include the  Three Patriarchs ,  The Narrows , and the  Emerald Pools .

After a day in Zion, continue this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah’s national parks  by heading to  Bryce Canyon .

• Recommended accommodations: Check out  Bryce Park Place  or our list of suggested  hotels and campsites in Bryce Canyon

Day 3 – 105 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Like Zion,  Bryce Canyon  is an excellent stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah . The defining characteristic of Bryce Canyon is the smattering of hoodoos, which are spire-like rock formations.

One of the best ways to see the hoodoos is by going to  Sunrise Point , where you can see them glow in the sunlight. Moreover, there are other intriguing natural sculptures in Bryce, like  Thor’s Hammer ,  Bryce Amphitheater , and  Two Bridges .

If you’d like to do a short hike, I recommend the  Navajo Loop  or  Queen’s Garden Trail . You can combine these routes and loop past  Queen Victoria  and  Wall Street , ending at Thor’s Hammer.

The next stop will be the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , so head to your hotel and get some rest.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at the  Cowboy Country Inn  or the  Canyon Country Lodge

Day 4 – 115 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Besides Zion and Bryce Canyon, there are lots of other cool  things to do in Utah . The next stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah  is the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , a remote region in southern Utah.

GSENM covers an expansive area, so you won’t be able to see everything during your trip. I recommend checking out the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , a 55-mile road that winds around several attractions. It’s a good way to see the  Zebra and Tunnel Canyons , the  Devil’s Garden ,  Batty Pass Caves ,  Jacob Hamblin Arch, Coyote Natural Bridge , and more.

The arches in this place are out of this world, as are the  Spooky and Brimstone Gulches . After basking in the magnitude of this natural monument, do the short drive to  Capitol Reef  and rest up.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at the  Capitol Reef Resort  or  Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

Day 5 – 160 miles, 2 hrs 45 mins

This  Utah national park road trip from Las Vegas  continues with a visit to  Capitol Reef National Park . The area is known for its white sandstone cliffs and domes, which look like dried-up reefs. That said, it’s also in southern Utah’s red rock country, so the landscape is quite beautiful.

You can see lots of canyons, cliffs, gorges, and petroglyphs while traveling along the park’s  Scenic Drive . There are also several trailheads, so consider a short hike like the  Capitol Gorge ,  Goosenecks , or  Sunset Point Trail .

About an hour north of Capitol Reef, you’ll find  Goblin Valley State Park , another interesting  place to visit in Utah . Its desert landscape is characterized by giant hoodoos, which have been nicknamed “goblins.” The park offers excellent wildlife spotting and enjoyable hikes like the  Carmel Canyon Loop  and the  Three Sisters Trail , which leads to a natural monument by the same name.

Another great thing about Goblin Valley is that it’s about 1.5 hours from  Arches National Park , the next stop on this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary .

• Recommended accommodations:  Red Cliffs Lodge  or  River Canyon Lodge

Day 6 – 30 miles, 45 mins

As you might expect,  Arches National Park  is full of natural arches, bridges, and rock structures. It’s the perfect place to visit on any  Las Vegas road trip to Utah .

Some of the most iconic spots I suggest checking out include  Balanced Rock ,  The Windows , and  Turret Arch .  Double Arch  is one of the most famous landmarks in the park, as is  Delicate Arch , which you can reach via a 3.4-mile hike.

If you want, you can hang out in the town of  Moab  before heading to  Canyonlands National Park . Along with shops and restaurants, Moab is home to the popular strong>Corona Arch.

• Recommended accommodations: Consider  Moab Springs Ranch in Moab  or  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab

Day 7 – 200 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Day 7 begins at  Canyonlands National Park , home to exceptional natural landmarks like the  Mesa Arch . I recommend getting there at dawn so you can see the sunrise from the arch.

That said, there are other amazing sights to see here. For example, the  Washer Woman  stands 500 feet tall, and  Monster Tower  is even higher. One of the best viewpoints here is the  Green River Overlook , where you can gaze at an impressive landscape from 1,000 feet up.

The park offers wildlife spotting, hiking, and kayaking throughout its four regions, so I suggest checking beforehand and planning which section to visit during your day here.

Moreover, together with Arches and Canyonlands,  Dead Horse Point State Park  is also worth visiting. Known as the setting for the film  helma & Louise , the park has some family-friendly hikes to beautiful viewpoints. I recommend the  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail  or the  Visitor Center Nature Trail . They’re short enough to give you time to drive to  Monument Valley  and rest for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Book a room at  Goulding’s Lodge  or check out our guide on  where to stay in Monument Valley

Day 8 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 10 mins

On Day 8, it’s time to bring this  Las Vegas road trip to Arizona . The first stop in this state is  Monument Valley , one of our personal favorites. With its striking landscape of red stone and green desert shrubs, it’s no wonder this place was a backdrop for movies like  Fort Apache  and  Back to the Future III .

If you can time it right, catch the sunrise at  Merrick Butte ; it’ll leave you breathless. Of course, there are other iconic views here, such as the one from  John Ford’s Point . A few other cool sights include  Camel Butte , the  Three Sisters , and  Elephant Butte . If you want to do a self-guided hike, do the  Wildcat Trail  around the  West Mitten Butte .

Monument Valley is the best introduction to Arizona, although as you drive to  Page, Arizona , you’ll see that there is more to come!

• Recommended accommodations: Sleep at  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  or one of the places in our  Page hotels  guide

Day 9 – 150 miles, 2 hrs 50 mins

Antelope Canyon  is an absolute dream to visit, so you must add it to your  Las Vegas road trip itinerary . It’s one thing to see photos of this place and another to walk through the slot canyon yourself.

We have a complete visitor’s guide with tips on how to photograph Antelope Canyon and which tour to take. I’ll tell you that both the  Upper and Lower canyons  are gorgeous, so there’s no wrong choice here!

What’s also great about Antelope Canyon is that it’s close to  Horseshoe Bend , another stop on this  Arizona road trip from Las Vegas . Be sure to make a quick stop here to see the view from nearly 1,000 feet high. You’ll want your camera with you because Horseshoe Bend offers the best images of the  Colorado River .

After an exciting day, drive to the  Grand Canyon  and get some sleep for a full day of exploring tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon , or consult our guide on  where to stay in the Grand Canyon

Day 10 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Last but not least, this  10-day road trip from Las Vegas  goes to the  Grand Canyon . The  South Rim  is where  Grand Canyon Village  is, so I recommend exploring this area. There are popular overlooks and trails here, such as the  South Kaibab Trail  or the  Rim Trail .

If your budget allows, I highly recommend taking a  helicopter tour  over the canyon. Not only is a helicopter ride a good use of your time, but you’ll be able to escape the crowds and see an entirely new view of the Grand Canyon.

Be sure to plan enough time to make the  drive to Las Vegas from Arizona . Right before you hit the city limits, you’ll pass through  Boulder City  and the  Hoover Dam . Consider checking out the  Visitor Center  or  Memorial Bridge  before heading into Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Recover from your road trip at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS car TRIP ALTERNATIVES

If you have an extra day, consider spending more time in  Zion  since there are so many things to see there.

You could also extend your time at the  Grand Canyon  and visit the  West Rim and Skywalk . It adds 90 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Yet another option is to check out  Red Rock Country in Sedona, Arizona . The distinct canyon landscape includes Oak Creek Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Tuzigoot National Monument. It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

With two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Salt Lake City . The city is full of impressive temples, parks, natural areas, and, of course, Great Salt Lake. It adds 355 miles (6 hrs 50 mins) of driving.

Another way you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  is by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway  in Sedona. Then go to Phoenix, home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

If you loved the  Grand Canyon , spend your extra time hiking the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camping at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the  Havasupai Indian Reservation . Along with a lodge, you’ll find the Havasu Falls Trailhead, which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

Those are the five  best road trips from Las Vegas ! I hope you found an itinerary that works for your schedule. Be sure to check out my map of each road trip so you can see the driving  distances from Vegas  and planned routes.

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

If you want more options, check my 10-day West Coast itinerary with Las Vegas as the starting point. It’s true that we didn’t optimize miles and time, but we got to see the main national parks and cities in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and California.

Finally, feel free to tell me about your Las Vegas road trip below or ask any questions. I’ll be happy to help you out! Safe travels!

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada ”

Good morning from Australia,

I will be visiting USA August & September 2024. I will be going to several cities and town, but would like to end up in Las Vegas.

I have been to Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon twice previously and was wondering if you would be able to tailor a road trip for me of approx 5 days, departing and returning from Vegas, or departing from Salt Lake City and returning to Vegas.

i would like to visit the large rock formations in the area.

Thank you and regards

Hi Peter, That sounds awesome. I would start by looking at our 10-day road trip from Las Vegas (which goes to Utah), and tailoring it to your interests. For example, skip Zion and Bryce Canyon, and instead check out the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which has some unique formations. There are lots of cool things to see in Utah , but I recommend the national parks at Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.

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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

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

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 :)

18 Weekend Getaways From Las Vegas – Epic Trip Ideas

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: April 20, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

In This Article:

National Parks Near Las Vegas

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

Death Valley, California

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best National Parks to Visit in Winter

Joshua Tree National Park, California

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

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

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

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

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

Zion National Park, Utah

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

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

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

Bryce Canyon Utah

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: 15 National Parks and Monuments in Utah

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

Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

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

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

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

Best Road Trips from Las Vegas

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

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

Lake Havasu, Arizona

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

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

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

Flagstaff, Arizona

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Indian Ruins Near Flagstaff

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

Mojave National Preserve, California

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

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

Sedona, Arizona

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

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

Explore the best free things to do in Sedona now.

LEARN MORE: Hiking Oak Creek Trail Sedona

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

Cedar City Utah

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

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

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

Prescott Arizona

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

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

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

Explore the best things to do in Prescott now.

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

Page, Arizona

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

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

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

Drive or Fly Weekend Getaways from Vegas

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

Los Angeles, California

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: LA to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip

Phoenix, Arizona

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Hike the Wave Cave Superstition Mountains Arizona

Santa Barbara California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego, California

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: 12 Epic Day Trips from San Diego

Palm Springs California

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

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

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

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

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

Carpinteria California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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6 of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

Mount Charleston

Driving time from Las Vegas: One hour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valley of Fire State Park

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

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

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Review of the Bellagio Las Vegas

Death Valley

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: What to expect as national parks reopen

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

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

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

Related: The US welcomes 3 new dark sky parks

Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Fun road trips in Arizona

Zion National Park

Driving time from Las Vegas: Three hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Where to stay near national parks using hotel points

Bottom line

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

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

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Grand Canyon West

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

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

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

2. Boulder City

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

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

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

3. Laughlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Zion National Park

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

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

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

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

This article was first published Apr 5, 2024 and updated Apr 10, 2024.

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7 Best Road Trips from Las Vegas: Ultimate Guide

| Filed in Arizona , Blog , Nevada , Road Trips , Utah | Disclaimer: I use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. | Leave a Comment

I’ve had the pleasure of road-tripping around the American Southwest six times now and cannot get enough of it. The red hues of the canyons, the unique rock formations, and the ideal weather when its cold everywhere else, has me coming back over and over. Here are some of the Best Road Trips from Las Vegas that I’ve done. These can be done as single destinations spots, but I did these in one road trip.

If you choose to do these destinations in one road trip, here is the route that I took. Flying into Las Vegas is always a great option, as it is cheaper than most airports. And Las Vegas is very close to SO many destinations. I have rented SUV’s and built out vans to travel in for these southwest trips.

Vehicle Recommendation: for this road trip, most spots do not require any special clearance or vehicle capabilities – except for Yant Flat. I recommend at least an AWD vehicle with SUV clearance.

I will also be listing several other detailed road trip itineraries that can be based out of Las Vegas at the bottom of this post.

Video Itinerary: Best Road Trips from Las Vegas –

The Best Road Trips from Las Vegas:

1. Snow Canyon, Utah

Despite the name, it does not snow here. Snow Canyon has over 16 miles of hiking, biking and climbing! And the camping there is some of the best I have ever experienced at a State Park. 

Views to Expect: Lava flows mixed with sandstone cliffs and vibrant oranges and reds. And I never thought I’d see a petrified sand dune until visiting here!  

Snow Canyon State Park is truly an underrated gem that I highly recommend checking out on your next Utah Trip.

Hike Required: 1.2 miles round trip, 216 ft elevation gain

Favorite View: Petrified Dunes Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours

2. Zion National Park, Utah

The scale alone of this place is absolutely wild and it feels so Jurassic. Even if you only have time to drive through part of this park, it will give you a sense of the scale and beauty of this place. You could easily spend one day here or a whole week.

Views to Expect: Beautiful layered sandstone, towering red cliffs, emerald pools and rivers!

This is the most visited National Park in Utah, and for good reason. Read my guide to know the best times to go and what sights to see.

Favorite View: Canyon Overlook Trail

Hiking Required: 1 mile roundtrip, 187 ft elevation gain

Distance from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

3. Yant Flat, Utah

Yant Flat, also known as the Candy Cliffs is short hike with high reward and definitely a lesser known area than the popular Utah National Parks nearby like Zion National Park. This is maybe the most “hidden gem” location of all of the road trips from Las Vegas.

Views to Expect: Swirls of orange and white sandstone makes it apparent why it was named ‘Candy Cliffs’. As well as many different textures and layers of rock in unique formations.

The road to get there does turn into a dirt/sand road with some areas where higher clearance is helpful. This depends on the weather conditions of course. Read more about this hike on my full guide linked below.

Hike Required: 3.4 miles, 337 ft elevation gain to main view point

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours and 45 minutes

4. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

There’s a reason this place is the most instagrammed spot in Arizona. An easy walk to an impressive view of the bend in the Colorado river with an impressive rock formation! This place is beautiful rain or shine and is an easy add on to any adventure.

Views to Expect: Expansive overlook of the horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. There is an impressive rock formation that protrudes from the canyon.

Hike Required: 1.5 miles

Distance from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

5. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

A stunning sandstone slot canyon in the Navajo Nation. This slot canyon has incredible textures, angles, and movement of light. You must be accompanied by a Navajo Guide to visit. It gets crowded, but it is truly a beautiful experience.

Views to Expect: the guides are great about letting you get photos of the incredible narrow passage of red-orange stone. The light will change depending on the time of day you go, but I truly think it’s beautiful any time of day.

Book in Advance!

6. Lone Rock, Utah

Lone Rock in Utah is In Lake Powell in Glen Canyon Recreation Area on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land. There is camping that looks out at the solitary rock that scales over 250 feet. And depending on the season and rainfall, there can be water surrounding the rock. People often camp here and paddle board this area!

Views to Expect : A scenic monolithic rock protruding from Lake Powell in a very scenic lakeside camping area.

Distance from Las Vegas: 4 hours, 20 minutes

7. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park is a Road Trips from Vegas MUST. It absolutely lives up to the dreamy photos you’ve probably seen already of this place on social media. The Valley of Fire Hikes absolutely blew me away with the views of miles and miles of red sandstone rock, interesting rock formations and incredibly scenic hiking and camping. All still with WAY less crowds than the Utah Big 5 National Parks.

Views to Expect: Swirling sandstone patterns and unique red and orange rock formations and canyons.

Favorite Hike: Fire Wave Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 1 hour

My biggest regret is not spending more time here! The campground was incredibly scenic (and is first come first served). Find out all the hikes, views and camping information in my guide:

Other Nearby Road Trips from Las Vegas:

This itinerary was one I did in March with some friends. It includes some of the best of the California desert destinations as well as some underrated gems along the way to the Grand Canyon and Sedona!

This itinerary is heavy on the California hot springs and packed full of incredible photo locations!

One of my first road trips to the Southwest was pretty spontaneous when our permits to Havasupai got cancelled due to flash floods. This itinerary really made me fall in love with the desert.

Shop my Gear: Road Trips from Las Vegas Outfits/Camera Gear

I loved having a fleece jacket that looks cute, but keeps me warm on those chilly desert mornings and evenings.

And these Blundstone Boots are so easy to hike shorter distances, keep my feet warm and look cute on the trail and in town!

Shop my favorite backpack for hiking and adventures!

Southwest Road Trip YouTube Video:

Conclusion: Road Trips from Las Vegas

The American Southwest clearly has endless places to adventure. It keeps pulling me back time and time again as soon as the weather in the PNW starts to turn dark. A quick summary of this road trip:

• Snow Canyon, Utah
• Zion National Park
• Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon
• Valley of Fire

Let me know in the comments if you’re saving this for your next Southwest Road Trip!!

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I loved this collection. Heading to Vegas this summer and want to use it as a base to explore the area. I’ll likely add the Grand Canyon to the list.

Oh absolutely! Grand Canyon is a fantastic add on to this. Enjoy!!

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13 Road Trips from Las Vegas: Top Scenic Destinations

Looking for some Road Trip from Las Vegas options? 

Las Vegas, a city of adventure, is the perfect starting point for some thrilling road trips. Just under an hour away, you can visit the Hoover Dam, a marvel of engineering that's a must-see. 

If you're up for an adrenaline rush, the Valley of Fire State Park, just over an hour's drive away, offers exceptional hiking trails and stunning red rock formations to explore.

If you're a nature lover, prepare to be awestruck.

A few hours' drive from Las Vegas will take you to Zion National Park, a place of breathtaking beauty. The Grand Canyon National Park, particularly the South Rim, is another epic destination within driving distance from Las Vegas.

Whether you take a day trip or plan a weekend getaway, these natural wonders will leave you speechless.

Whether you're a fan of shorter trips or prefer a more extended adventure, there's something for everyone. Boulder City, just a 15-minute drive away, offers a charming small-town vibe.

Head to Lake Mead National Recreation Area for water sports and spectacular views. And if you're in the mood for a hidden gem, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area awaits. The variety of experiences is endless.

Some nearby attractions offer tours from Las Vegas, but most of the places listed below require a rental car.  

The best practice is to get an early start on the day to maximize the cooler temperatures and better parking opportunities at all these cool places!

Top Destinations from Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a great home base for many stunning destinations. There are plenty of National Parks, State Parks, and Natural Wonders within just a few hours of Las Vegas. 

Grand Canyon National Park

The  Grand Canyon National Park  is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world.

It is approximately 4.5 hours away from Las Vegas and is a place where you can stand on the edge and marvel at the vast landscape, which stretches over 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide.

Enjoy one (or all) viewpoint along the Desert View Drive. You'll find many viewpoints, such as Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station.

For a more immersive experience, hike down the Bright Angel Trail or take a mule ride. If you're looking for something less intense, consider a helicopter tour for aerial views of this unique landscape.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park  is about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas in St. Geroge, Utah. The park offers towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and lush river valleys, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Popular trails include Angels Landing and The Narrows.

No matter what season you visit, the park offers beauty year-round, from the spring blooms to the fall colors.

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive provides easy access to many park highlights. If you're interested in wildlife, look for bighorn sheep, mule deer, and various bird species.

Death Valley National Park

Over 2 hours from Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park is known for extreme temperatures and unique landscapes. Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level, is a must-see.

Visit the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for a chance to walk on iconic desert terrain. Artists Drive offers beautiful views of colored hills due to the varied minerals in the soil.

Don't forget Dante's View for a panoramic look over the park, offering a unique vantage point to take in the dramatic scenery.

I've created a  day trip guide from Las Vegas to Death Valley  that is full of info for your visit!

Bryce Canyon National Park

Located within a manageable 4-hour drive from Las Vegas,  Bryce Canyon National Park  beckons with its surreal landscape of hoodoos and unique rock formations.

Hike along scenic trails, such as the iconic Navajo Loop, for breathtaking vistas of the amphitheaters below. Witness the park's otherworldly beauty during sunrise or sunset, creating an unforgettable experience in the heart of Utah's wilderness.

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

Located just 30 minutes from Sin City,  Hoover Dam  is a modern engineering marvel. This dam created Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States.

You can tour the dam to learn about its history and the effort it took to construct it. 

Lake Mead offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities on the Colorado River, which provide an escape from the bustling Las Vegas Strip.

There are also hiking trails along the shoreline and in the nearby hills. The Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge offers stunning views and a perfect photography spot.

Learn more about visiting the Hoover Dam, including parking and tour fees, in this  Las Vegas to Hoover Dam: Day Trip Visiting Guide .

Snow Canyon State Park, Utah

Escape the neon lights of Las Vegas and enjoy the beauty of  Snow Canyon State Park , about 2-hour drive away. Explore the park's unique red rock formations, lava tubes, and sand dunes.

Hike scenic trails like the Petrified Dunes Loop or brave the lava fields of the Cinder Cone for an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you're rock climbing, mountain biking, or simply soaking in the scenes, Snow Canyon State Park is a memorable outdoor experience in the heart of southern Utah.

Page, Arizona

About four hours from Las Vegas, you'll come across Page. Page welcomes you with its stunning natural wonders and outdoor escapades.

Just a few hours' drive from the glitz of the Strip, this quaint town serves as an ideal launching pad for exploring the marvels of the American Southwest.

Page is home to  Horseshoe Bend ,  where the Colorado River winds its way through a majestic sandstone canyon. Slot canyons are another favorite place to visit in the area! 

Both the Lower Antelope Canyon  and  Upper Antelope Canyon  offer unique experiences. These narrow passageways, sculpted by millennia of wind and water, boast mesmerizing light play and intricate slot canyon rock formations.

While in the Page area, be sure to explore the vast expanse of Lake Powell. The shimmering reservoir is nestled in towering red rock cliffs. Lake Powell offers boundless opportunities for adventure and relaxation – consider a scenic boat tour!

Palm Springs, California

Escape the desert heat of Las Vegas and journey to  Palm Springs , just a 4-hour drive away. You'll find luxurious hot springs resorts, world-class golf courses, and a vibrant downtown scene here.

Explore nearby Joshua Tree National Park for outdoor adventures.

Joshua Tree National Park

Located approximately 3.5 hours from Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park beckons with its surreal desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees.

Explore the park's unique geological formations, including rugged rock formations and vast expanses of desert wilderness.

Popular activities include rock climbing, hiking, and stargazing, with the park offering stunning night skies perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.

Los Angeles

Venture beyond the desert landscape of Las Vegas to the vibrant metropolis of  Los Angeles , just a 4-hour (or 6-hour) drive away, depending on traffic.

Explore iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Griffith Observatory, offering stunning city skyline views.

Indulge in world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment, from the glamour of Beverly Hills to the eclectic vibes of Venice Beach. Experience the magic of Tinseltown and soak in the endless possibilities of the City of Angels.

Scenic Driving Routes

Take a break from the glitz of Las Vegas and explore some of the most scenic drives nearby. Whether you're looking for stunning rock formations or a sense of the unknown, these routes offer unique experiences.

Valley of Fire State Park 

The  Valley of Fire State Park  is known for its vibrant red sandstone formations.

The main highlights include  Elephant Rock, which looks like its namesake, and  Rainbow Vista, which offers colorful rock views. You can also find ancient petroglyphs dating back thousands of years.

Many stops have  short hiking trails . Bring plenty of water, especially in summer when temperatures can soar. The entire loop is about  50 miles  long and can be driven comfortably within a few hours.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

This route, officially known as  Nevada State Route 375 , is famous for its ties to Area 51.  Rachel, Nevada , is the closest town to the quirky  Little A'Le'Inn,  where you can get alien-themed merchandise and food.

Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic  “Extraterrestrial Highway”  signs for photo ops. The highway stretches for about  98 miles  through desolate yet beautiful desert landscapes.

Ensure your car is in good condition, as services are sparse along this road. The entire loop will take about 5-hours to complete

Red Rock Canyon

The Red Rock Canyon Loop is a scenic 13-mile drive within the  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area . You'll encounter stunning rock formations,  Native American petroglyphs , and wildlife.

Highlights include  Calico Hills , which features striking red and white sandstone cliffs, and the  High Point Overlook , which offers panoramic views of the area.

Numerous hiking trails are available, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. 

You will need a timed entry pass between October 1st and May 31st—be sure to book in advance! We missed out last time because we did not know there was a timed entry!

FAQs: Road Trips from Las Vegas

Many great road trips start in Las Vegas. Whether you have 3, 4, 5, or 7 days, there's a destination and route that fits your schedule.

What are the top destinations for a 3-day road trip from Las Vegas?

For a three-day trip, consider visiting the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, or Death Valley.

These spots are all within a few hours' drive and offer fantastic scenery and activities. You could easily spend three days at any of the three parks.

If you want to visit a few places quickly, consider this loop option: Page, AZ, to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, AZ. 

What are some ideal 4-day road trip itineraries starting from Las Vegas?

On a 4-day trip, consider spending 1.5 – 2 days at the National Park Sites previously mentioned. 

What are the must-see spots on a 5-day road trip originating in Las Vegas?

A 5-day road trip loop option could include stops from the 3-day road trip option, but consider adding stops closer to Las Vegas to the mix.

Add Valley of Fire State Park and Snow Canyon State Park before heading to Zion, and add the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead at the end of your trip.

Which scenic routes should I take for a 7-day Las Vegas road trip?

For a full week, take a scenic trip with stops at the Mojave Desert, Joshua Tree National Park, Los Angeles, CA, and Death Valley before returning to Las Vegas.

Can you recommend some overnight destinations within a short drive from Las Vegas?

Consider an overnight trip to Bryce Canyon National Park or the Grand Canyon. Each is within a short drive and offers excellent places to stay and explore.

Which nearby states are accessible for a day trip when driving from Las Vegas?

California, Arizona, and Utah are all accessible for day trips. You can visit spots like Mojave National Preserve in California, Lake Havasu in Arizona, or Zion National Park in Utah. Be sure to start early to make the most of your day.

Final Thoughts: Road Trips from Las Vegas

As you weigh your travel options, consider the adventures awaiting you beyond Las Vegas's lights and glamor.

From the urban buzz of Los Angeles to the serene landscapes of Snow Canyon State Park, there's a destination suited to everyone.

Witness the great spots in the Grand Canyon, enjoy the laid-back vibes of Palm Springs, or trek through the rugged beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. Each stop offers its unique atmosphere, ready for exploration.

So, as you research and plan, remember that there are countless possibilities outside Las Vegas. 

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Teresa Kulczycki is the founder of An Acre in the City. She has travelled to all 50 States in the USA and has a travel bucket list that she continues to whittle down. She has less than 100 US National Park Service Sites and only 9 state capitols left to visit. Other travel bucket lists includes catching a baseball game at all the Major League Baseball Fields.

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The 10 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas

Blog , Nevada , North America , USA / January 28, 2021 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Millions of people flock to Vegas each year for an escape to Sin City. But what about those of us nature-lovers, looking to escape the bright lights of Vegas? Here is my collection of the ten best road trips from Las Vegas into the beautiful natural surroundings. Prepare for your Las Vegas Road Trip below!

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Las Vegas is an incredibly popular destination for US tourists. Millions of visitors flock to Sin City every year for the excitement, the bright lights, the gambling, and the incredible shows.

However, even those who love the outdoors can find some amazing hikes, parks, and natural wonders nearby!

Whether you are a local looking for a Las Vegas road trip or a visitor who wants to add a stop to their vacation, this list is for you. Here are the top ten best road trips from Las Vegas for nature-lovers at heart!

You May Also Like: National Parks Near Las Vegas

Table of Contents

1) Valley of Fire State Park

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Valley of Fire State Park surpassed my expectations, and majorly. This Nevada state park was such a highlight for me, I was honestly planning my next trip back before I had even left the area.

This desert park covers 46,000 acres of land, and visitors will be blown away at every turn. Towering red mountains and multi-colored hills will greet your eye at every corner. Striped and rugged rock formations, some dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, are waiting to be discovered.

You May Also Like: Planning the Perfect Girls’ Trip to Vegas

There are plenty of breathtaking hikes inside Valley of Fire State Park, and most of them are fairly short. This is not a bad thing, because temperatures can get HOT! The hikes lead to amazing sights like ancient petroglyphs, incredible rock formations, and gorgeous vistas.

You do not want to miss this park! Only a one hour drive northeast from the Las Vegas Strip, it’s a quick and easy day trip from Las Vegas.

Read my in depth post on visiting Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada.

2) Seven Magic Mountains

One of the easiest road trips from Las Vegas, the amazing art installation called Seven Magic Mountains is sure to impress artistic and non-artsy visitors alike. Produced by the Nevada Museum of Art and Art Production Fund, this art installation was originally meant to be a temporary project. As of now, it’s lifespan has already been extended once (and I suspect will be extended again).

Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone in 2016, these giant neon boulders stand up to 25 feet tall in the middle of nowhere, with a dry desert backdrop and endless blue sky above. It’s the perfect blend between the natural world and the man-made.

Seven Magic Mountains is a completely unexpected visual surprise, just off of the freeway and only 20 minutes from the Vegas Strip.

Read my in depth post about visiting Seven Magic Mountains.

3) Joshua Tree National Park

If you have never visited Joshua Tree National Park in California, then this is a must-see! At approximately three hours away, this is one of the most scenic drives from Las Vegas.

Joshua Tree National Park is a special place. It became a National Park as recently as 1994, and for good reason! The park covers areas of both the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, meaning that it contains two very different but equally beautiful landscapes.

The famous and strange Joshua Tree – which is actually a tall Yucca – dots the landscape like an otherworldly being. The nighttime stargazing is phenomenal, earning a designation as a Dark Sky Park .

Joshua Tree is popular with hikers, campers, photographers and rock-climbers. The park has something for everyone, and should be seen at least once in everyone’s life.

Read my in depth post about visiting Joshua Tree National Park.

4) The Grand Canyon

Though it probably needs no introduction, the world famous Grand Canyon absolutely deserves a spot on this list of the best road trips from Las Vegas. Crossing into Arizona, the drive will take around four and a half hours to reach the Grand Canyon.

The first time I saw the Grand Canyon, I remember thinking that it almost looked like an illusion, or a backdrop from a movie. It’s hard to comprehend how vast this beautiful rock formation spans. The Grand Canyon covers over 270 miles lengthwise and 18 miles in width.

To truly appreciate the size of the Grand Canyon, it’s not a bad idea to spend a night or two near the park in order to have a few extra days to explore. Whether you prefer hiking, camping, photography, or even river rafting, the Grand Canyon has it. So, definitely start to plan that road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon today!

Get more information on visiting the Grand Canyon.

We’re heading back to California for my next Las Vegas road trip, to the beautiful locale of Malibu.

For first time visitors, Malibu is rarely what they’ve pictured in their heads! That’s because Malibu is a far cry from glamourous Beverly Hills and is actually more of a small sleepy town with a laid back vibe.

My favorite surprise of Malibu is how beautiful the natural scenery is. The coastline has so much character due to the tall and jagged cliffs that line much of the beach. El Matador State Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in all of Los Angeles, and is a great place for photography or just lounging. The nearby Leo Carillo State Park offers gorgeous hiking and camping opportunities.

As for meals, there is certainly no shortage of restaurant options in every price range. Though it will take around four and a half hours to get here, this is one of the prettiest and most relaxing road trips from Las Vegas you could choose.

Read my in depth guide on all things Malibu.

6) Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave National Preserve is an underrated and relatively unknown park that definitely deserves recognition. It sits on the border of California and Nevada, and will take under an hour to reach by car from Vegas.

As part of the Mojave Desert, you will see many Joshua Trees stretching across vast areas of desert land. This is a beautiful place to hike, but definitely come prepared because desert hiking is no joke.

There are a few surprises in the Mojave National Preserve that you wouldn’t expect. Tall white sand dunes called Kelso Dunes stretch across one area of the park, with a mountainous backdrop and dry desert brush lining the entry. Visitors can also access an underground Lava Tube that is amazing for photography and fun to explore.

Learn about visiting the Mojave National Preserve.

7) Zion National Park

Heading east from Las Vegas is the unbelievable Zion National Park in Utah. In under three hours, you can reach Utah’s very first National Park, and it’s a beauty.

Tall pink and red sandstone cliffs tower overhead into the sky above. Unique plants, animals, streams and rocks are waiting at every turn.

The first time I drove into Zion was in the evening, and what I vividly remember is the bright stars shining overhead and the moon illuminating the outlines of the surrounding cliffs. This is one of my most memorable stops in Utah so far and has a special place in my heart. I highly recommend taking a road trip from Vegas to Zion National Park.

Get more information on visiting Zion.

8) The Trona Pinnacles

This is one of the more obscure locales on the list of road trips from Las Vegas. The Trona Pinnacles are not super well known outside of their home in California. It will take visitors just under four hours to make the trip from Las Vegas.

Besides being incredibly unusual, the Trona Pinnacles used to be submerged underwater. Today they rise out of the very flat and dry Searles Valley in various shapes, named towers, tombstones, ridges and cones. They are just so strange! It’s no wonder that this is a famous spot for filming science fiction productions.

One cool detail to remember, camping is allowed here, anywhere, and is completely free. This is another great spot for nighttime photography.

Read my in depth guide on visiting the Trona Pinnacles.

In Northern Arizona, Sedona is a great place to visit with a Southwestern vibe! Sedona is a four and a half hour drive from Las Vegas, and the route will take you through interesting scenery around Flagstaff and the Coconino National Forest.

Housing a population of 10,000, Sedona is an artsy and New Age type haven. Galleries, spas, and small shops line the streets. Giant red-rock buttes and pine forests shelter the town, creating a visual treat.

Sedona is a great weekend getaway from Las Vegas if you have the time. Exploring the shops and galleries, hiking, and sight-seeing are excellent ways to pass the time.

Bonus, if you are looking to extend your road trip further, my guide on road trip stops between Phoenix and Sedona will highlight several additional can’t-miss sights in Arizona.

Get more information on things to do in Sedona.

10) Death Valley National Park

Last and absolutely not least is one of my personal favorite parks in California; Death Valley National Park. There is just so much to see here! As the largest National Park in the contiguous United States, the views are never-ending.

From the incredibly colorful Artist’s Palette to the jagged points of Zabrieski Point, the geology is certainly stunning. One of the most picturesque spots is called Badwater Basin, and it’s claim to fame is being the lowest point in all of North America, sitting at 282 feet below sea level.

If you do any hiking, be sure to follow desert safety guidelines . Death Valley regularly reaches temperatures over 110 degrees in the summer and fall months.

With such a large amount of land to cover, this is one park you may want to explore for more than a day. And, at only two hours away from the Las Vegas Strip, it’s an easy park to come back to again and again.

Read all about visiting Death Valley National Park.

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These are the 10 BEST road trips from Las Vegas, all reachable in four and a half hours or less!

I’ve been to each of these spots multiple times, and can’t recommend them enough. Whether you prefer quirky art installations, desert hikes, or quiet beachside vacations, it is all here.

More Nevada Resources:

• Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Seven Magic Mountains
• National Parks Near Las Vegas
• The Ten Best Road Trips from Las Vegas
• Hiking the Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park
• A Complete Guide to Valley of Fire State Park

Let me know in the comments below which one is first on your list!

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About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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Top 10 Road Trip Destinations from Las Vegas (with Maps, Tolls & Tips)

Vegas baby! For many, a trip to Sin City is simply slot machines, video poker, and getting stuffed at all you can eat buffets. But if Lady Luck isn’t on your side, or you’re just looking for an adventure away from the strip, Las Vegas is a great starting point for a road trip. Whether it’s a quick day trip or a longer outing to San Diego or Arizona, Las Vegas is perfectly positioned to give you some amazing experiences. Ready to plan your route? Here are the 10 best Las Vegas road trips you can take.

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• The Hoover Dam
• Death Valley
• Grand Canyon
• Los Angeles
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Zion National Park
• Lake Havasu
• Other long road trips from Las Vegas

1. The Hoover Dam, NV

Considered one of the greatest engineering achievements in human history, the Hoover Dam still draws in thousands of tourists a day. Built in the 1930s, the dam towers of the Colorado River, offering spectacular views from a dizzying 900 feet.

Sixt Pro Tip:

It’s also worth checking out the nearby town of Boulder City, which caters to visitors with zip lining, four wheeling and brewery tours at Boulder Dam Brewing Co. Enjoy the ride even more in a Ford Mustang convertible.

Sixt Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 35 miles; a 45-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

2. Lake Mead

Take a short drive east of Las Vegas to a “lake” that is actually a reservoir that was formed when the Hoover Dam was built. Lake Mead is the closest body of water to Vegas and a great place to go swimming, boating and jet skiing.

Entrance fees are $25 per vehicle and are valid for a week. But if you think you’ll be back again, it might make sense to get the annual pass for $40. If you need a rental, an SUV can carry all your outdoor gear.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 31 miles; a 51-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls on the route.

3. Death Valley, CA

With the highest recorded temperature in history at 134 degrees, Death Valley deserves its ominous name. But if you can stand the heat, Death Valley offers some of the most spectacular and dramatic scenery in the southwest. Dunes, salt flats, mountains, ancient trails, prehistoric rock formations and the lowest-elevation lake in North America.

Surviving the heat doesn’t always look stylish. Wear a dorky expedition hat, and slather on the sunblock; you’ll thank us later. You may also want to consider a premium car with ice-cold air conditioning, like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 123 miles; a 2.5-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

4. Grand Canyon, AZ

You’ll go through a few playlists getting to the Grand Canyon, but we promise it lives up to the hype. Grand Canyon National Park is a hugely popular destination for hiking, donkey rides and whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities, and is well worth the tank of gas to get there and back.

The most epic views are found at the South Rim of the canyon, but if you’re feeling adventurous, drive to the west rim where the Hualapai Tribe operates the famous skywalk. And why not rent a Ford Mustang convertible to enjoy 360-degree views?

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 271 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

5. Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for a road trip with a variety of scenery, start driving southwest on Interstate 15 and don’t stop until you hit Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. There’s something for everyone in LA, including too many amazing food trucks to try in just a day, so make a weekend of it.

Looking to heat things up? Make a pitstop in Baker and check out the world’s largest thermometer. And since you’re heading the stars’ way, you’ll need an all-star to blend in. Treat yourself to a Jaguar F-Type Convertible. You can also choose a one-way rental car from Vegas to LA from SIXT.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS:  262 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

6. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

See a different kind of desert landscape with a road trip to Joshua Tree on I-15 from Las Vegas. Many people head to the park for hiking through the rugged rock formations and distinctive Joshua trees. It’s also an excellent spot for stargazing, rock climbing and camping. Just be sure to be prepared for the weather, which can be very hot or cold depending on the time of year and day.

SIXT Pro Tip:

Make sure to come prepared for your visit to Joshua Tree. There is no drinkable water available in the park, so bring plenty with you. This is the desert after all! Also plan to come early to avoid crowds and snag a parking spot, especially if you are visiting in spring, fall or winter.

SIXT Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 187 miles; a 3 hr 15 min drive

TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

7. Phoenix, AZ

Go for a longer drive and spend some time in Phoenix. You can take US Highway 93 S all the way from Las Vegas to Phoenix, and pass through some interesting towns and desert landscape along the way.

You can drive on a stretch of the famous Route 66 as you pass through Kingman, Arizona. You can even visit the Route 66 Museum here. If you or your kids are into trains, there is the Kingman Railroad Museum and Locomotive Park, which are a nod to the city’s past as a railway hub.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  300 miles; a 5-hour drive

8. Palm Springs, CA

Make the 4-hour drive to the desert oasis of Palm Springs. The city is popular for its golf courses, spas and setting at the foot of rugged mountains. While you can fill your time with outdoor activities like hiking in the neighboring Coachella Valley, you can also just relax and shop in the many boutiques.

Architecture fans will delight in driving around the city and seeing all of the midcentury-modern houses and buildings. You can stay in a midcentury-modern hotel or resort, or just drive around the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood where more than 300 homes were built in this architectural style in the 1950s.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  233 miles; a 4-hour drive

9. Zion National Park, UT

In less than 3 hours you can be in one of the most popular national parks in the US. Take I-15 to the northeast and either do a straight drive or stop in other popular spots like the Grand Canyon along the way. Just be sure to fill up on gas before leaving Las Vegas because you won’t hit many towns until crossing into Utah.

Take a little side trip south on Highway 167 to Valley of Fire State Park. You can see the amazing rock formations that contribute to the park’s name, and just enjoy the scenery before continuing to Zion.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 158 miles; a 2 hr 45 min drive

TOLLS: When you get to Utah State Route 9, called the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, you will have to pay an entrance fee to Zion National Park. It costs $25.00 for a 7-day pass.

10. Lake Havasu, AZ

Drive south on Highway 95 to the California/Arizona border to relax at Lake Havasu. Like Lake Mead, Lake Havasu is also a reservoir formed by a dam on the Colorado River. It has beaches to relax on while you enjoy the mountain view.

You don’t need to go across the pond to see a landmark of England. The exterior part of London Bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu in the late 1960s and now spans the Colorado River rather than the River Thames, linking the mainland of Lake Havasu City to an island.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 153 miles; a 2 hr 30 min drive

11. Other long road trips from Las Vegas

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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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The Best 7-day Road Trip from Las Vegas

This 7-day round trip takes you through stunning red rock desert landscapes, sandstone formations that will take your breath way, national parks that will impress you with their beautiful plant and wildlife, and iconic cities and monuments like the Grand Canyon, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Moab.

The best 7-day road trip from Las Vegas spans about 1900 miles and takes a total of 32 hours from start to finish. You'll make your way from Vegas to Flagstaff and Albuquerque, visiting the Grand Canyon and passing through several National Parks before looping back towards Sin City.

If you feel at home in the desert or surrounded by tall trees, and if you love long stretches of barren roads where you can blast your favourite tunes, this 7-day road trip is absolutely for you! Keep scrolling to find out more.

Your 7-day road trip from Las Vegas: the best day-by-day itinerary

What is the best 7-day road trip from las vegas and where will it take you to.

With an average daily drive time of about 3 hours, this 7-day road trip is an ideal combination of short driving stretches mixed with wonderful stopping points.

Apart from the Grand Canyon (a highlight of this journey) you'll also be stopping in several other parks and forests including the Apache National Forest, Cibola National Forest, Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park.

While this itinerary is definitely nature-focused, there'll be plenty of time to get some city fun in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Sedona.

Day 1: Driving from Las Vegas to Flagstaff

We're starting off this trip with a bang by including the Grand Canyon National Park on the first day. The first day's drive will take you 4 hours to drive, covering 250 miles.

Keep reading to discover what awaits you in your first few moments of travelling.

Road trip route from Las Vegas to Flagstaff

You'll start in Vegas where you'll take the US-93 and make your way to the Grand Canyon National Park. Once you've had your fill of this arid natural wonder, you can continue towards Flagstaff, where you'll be spending your first night.

Things to explore on the way to Flagstaff

One of the most impressive natural landscapes in the entirety of the United States, Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see and bucket-list location for anyone venturing through this part of the US. Boasting stunning canyons and red deserts, this unique national park is definitely worth exploring.

If you're looking for something else to discover on this stretch, we recommend stopping in the suburb of Henderson where you can check out the Clark County Museum, or taking a hike through Prescott National Forest, where you're sure to enjoy the stunning nature that surrounds you.

Where to stay in Flagstaff: small-town luxury

Flagstaff is known for its small-town charm and storied history, and it's a great spot to stay as it's right by the Grand Canyon. This means that you can spend the day exploring, spend the night in Flagstaff and then head out early without worrying about crowds.

One thing to keep in mind is that Flagstaff can get quite snowy due to its elevation, so be prepared for cold weather if travelling in the winter.

And if you're looking for a place to stay, we highly recommend the High Country Motor Lodge , which boasts some truly amazing amenities. You'll have access to their on-site restaurant, where you can catch an evening show, as well as their shared lounge, bar and garden.

The High Country Motor Lodge also boasts a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub, perfect for some well-deserved relaxation after a long drive. And to top it off, they've got free parking, so you won't have to worry about where to drop off your car when you arrive.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

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Day 2: Driving from Flagstaff to Winslow

After a great night's rest, you'll be primed for the second day of travelling and exploring some neat sites. It is a rather short drive from Flagstaff to Winslow, covering 120 miles in 2 hours and 20 minutes, so you can spend most of your day exploring Sedona and Coconino National Forest.

Road trip route from Flagstaff to Winslow

The driving stretch for day 2 is pretty short, about an hour in total and travelling just under 60 miles. You'll leave Flagstaff and head towards Sedona via the 89A.

Then, when you've finished exploring the many unique attractions within and surrounding Sedona, head back up towards Flagstaff, this time diverting right onto the I-40 and continuing until you've reached Winslow.

Things to explore on the way to Winslow

There are tons of things to explore along this relatively short stretch. Sedona (and the nearby Montezuma Castle National Monument) are absolutely worth a visit.

A town surrounded by the Arizona Desert, Sedona boasts tons of New Age shops, spas and art galleries; nearby Montezuma Castle is a historic palace carved directly into limestone cliffs.

You can also check out Coconino National Forest. Touted as one of the most diverse national forests in America, Coconino National Forest offers a variety of natural landscapes ranging from red rocks to alpine tundras.

Once you've finished exploring Sedona, we recommend you spend a little time exploring the over 1.8 million-acre forest of this celebrated park.

Where to stay in Winslow: explore the historic roots of Route 66

Winslow is a small city along your route, known mostly as being an important stop along the famous Route 66. It's also celebrated for its mention in the Eagle's “Take it Easy”, which features a verse about standing on a corner in Winslow (which is now a dedicated park).

Winslow is also a great base to explore some of the fascinating surrounding landmarks and attractions. You can easily reach Sedona and Coconino National Forest from the city. Make sure to visit the Meteor Crater as well!

While visiting this city, Homolovi State Park is a must-visit for all archaeology and history buffs. However, if you are a more outdoorsy person, you can visit McHood Park to enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

We've got a great hotel option for this small town: the La Posada Hotel and Gardens . This historic and frankly iconic hotel is known for having hosted some of history's greatest American personalities, including Amelia Earhart, James Cagney, Franklin D. Roosevelt and John Wayne. If the walls could talk!

Apart from its famous guests, La Posada boasts a garden and martini bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink, as well as an old-school trading post and book store. The hotel also offers some delicious food at i's on-site restaurant, as well as room service.

Day 3: Driving from Winslow to Albuquerque

This third day of traveling takes you from Winslow to Albuquerque, with about 350 miles of travel covered in a 6-hour period. It's the longest travel day, but also packs in tons of cool natural attractions.

Road trip route from Winslow to Albuquerque

You'll leave Winslow via I-40 and continue along this interstate until you reach Holbrook, where you'll take Exit 285 and continue along US-180. Merge onto the US-191 and continue to Springerville, where you can make a stop to explore the nearby Apache National Forest.

Once you've had your fill of this celebrated forest, hop into your car and direct yourself towards US-60. From there, slowly make your way back towards I-40, which will take you all the way to Albuquerque as well as the nearby Cibola National Forest.

Things to explore on the way to Albuquerque

This third day combines exploration of natural spaces with the urban bustle of Albuquerque. Along the way, one spot we definitely suggest you explore is The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are most known for their many bodies of water; over thirty lakes and reservoirs, and more than 690 miles of river and streams. The park itself spans over two million acres of forest and encompasses some really diverse landscapes, including stunning mountainous country.

If you've got some time to spare, check out the nearby Cibola National Forest. Spanning across the width of New Mexico and including the grassy plains of Oklahoma and Texas, the Cibola National Forest spans over 1.9 million acres, offering tons of vistas and unique walking trails.

Where to stay in Albuquerque: unwind and re-energize

Known for being a technology and media company hub, Albuquerque also boasts tons of historic landmarks and celebrated festivals like the International Balloon Fiesta and the New Mexico State Fair.

This city is a great spot to stop on this road trip, offering great dining opportunities and a unique set of attractions. And if you're looking for a spot to stay while visiting, then Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn offers a charming stay, packed with authenticity and great amenities.

This interesting accommodation, built in 1938, blends Southwestern décor style with contemporary design. The spacious casitas, have hidden courtyards and there are some hot tub suites, providing a peaceful retreat after a day exploring.

You can also make sure to start the day off right at the on-site restaurant, serving up hot breakfast options cooked to order. Make sure to try the green Chile burritos!

Day 4: Driving from Albuquerque to Taos

This day takes you from Albuquerque to the small city of Taos, which marks the turnaround point of this journey. The drive itself is about 2 hours 30 minutes and spans about 130 miles. Keep reading to discover what awaits you on Day 4.

Road trip route from Albuquerque to Taos

After a night in the stunning Crowne Plaza accommodations, we're sure you'll feel relaxed and ready to head back on the road. Exit Albuquerque via I-25, which takes you to the historic city of Santa Fe.

Nearby, you'll find the wonderful Santa Fe National Forest, which you can visit before getting onto the US-68 from Santa Fe and continuing to Taos.

Things to explore on the way to Taos

Due to the relatively short driving time on day 4, you'll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding sites.

We highly recommend spending some time exploring the beautiful and historic city of Santa Fe. Known as the artistic counterpart to the industrial center that is Albuquerque, Santa Fe boasts a really rich and booming classical music and arts scene.

The city also happens to be the oldest capital in the United States and is nationally celebrated for its wonderful Spanish colonial architecture and rich Native American culture.

If you've got some time left over after exploring Santa Fe, we suggest checking out the Bandelier National Monument, which boasts over 33,000 acres of canyon and mesa country housing evidence of human settlements, dating back over 11,000 years.

Where to stay in Taos: an immersive desert resort

We recommend staying at the El Monte Sagrado Resort & Spa while visiting the unique city of Taos. Boasting stunning outdoor landscapes and gardens, the El Monte Sagrado will have you feeling like you've been immersed in the desert jungle.

You'll also have plenty of opportunities to relax at this resort's full-service spa, which offers massages, facials, and tons of other therapeutic services. If that's not enough, you can always enjoy a workout or a dip at this hotel's indoor pool and fitness center.

If you're looking for a place to dine in the evening, check out El Monte Sagrado's two restaurants, De La Tierra and The Gardens. And for a drink afterwards, we recommend you check out the resort's Anaconda Bar.

Want to explore Taos? We highly recommend you check out The Taos Pueblo, a collection of adobe dwellings that have been inhabited for 1000 years and located just 10 minutes by car from the resort.

This happens to also be the only living Native American community with both the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark designation. Overall, a great place to explore overnight.

Day 5: Driving from Taos to Canyonlands National Park

On day 5, you'll be driving from Taos to the iconic Canyonlands National Park. This stretch spans about 300 miles, which should take you about 5 hours 30 minutes to cross in total.

Road trip route from Taos to Canyonlands National Park

From Taos, take US-64; you'll have the option of stopping at Carson National Forest, which is located right along the route. This road should be pretty scenic, so make sure to have your passenger ready with a camera to snap some great shots.

Continue along the US-64, which will turn into the US-84; follow this road to Pagosa Springs. Here you can hop out and explore the Rio Grande National Forest, or continue along the US-160 passed Durango and until you've reached Monticello.

Things to explore on the way to Canyonlands National Park

There are a couple of unique forests to explore along this stretch, including the San Juan National Forest and the Rio Grande National Forest.

The Rio Grande National Forest spans 1.8 million acres and offers year-round opportunities for sightseeing throughout its many natural landscapes. This park also offers ample opportunities for recreational activities, so it's a great way to get a little active on this road trip.

If you've got some additional time on your hands, we recommend checking out the Hovenweep National Monument, a preserve that's home to over 2,500 people and which is comprised of six prehistoric villages, all built between 1200 and 1300 A.D.

You'll have to add about 30 minutes to your route to explore this monument, and we highly recommend you do as it's definitely worth it.

Where to stay in Monticello: get cozy in a charming town

Monticello, Utah is most known for being an early settlement area, settled by pioneers from the Mormon church in 1887. The city itself is quite small, offering a relaxed vibe that'll be much appreciated in the last few days of your road trip.

This is also the perfect place to base yourself in as you explore Canyonlands National Park. This stunning and unique national park is split into four districts and you will want to put aside a day or two to explore The Needles, Island in the Sky, The Maze, and the rivers.

While visiting Canyonlands National Park, make sure to marvel at Mesa Arch. This geological formation is possibly the most famous area in the park and stills majestically on a cliff.

You can take in some of the amazing scenery of the surroundings at Grand Viewpoint, Green River Overlook, Shafer Trail Viewpoint and Buck Canyon Overlook.

Looking for a spot to stay? We recommend the Inn at the Canyons, a small hotel that offers quaint décor and a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel boasts an expansive pool and hot tub, so you can relax and enjoy a dip after a day of trekking and hiking.

The Inn at the Canyons also boasts a daily continental breakfast, so you don't have to worry about where to grab the most important meal of the day.

Day 6: Driving from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield

This penultimate day of driving takes you from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield, crossing about 230 miles which should take you about 3 hours 30 minutes in total.

Road trip route from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield

On your way out of Monticello, we recommend making a stop in Canyonlands National Park to explore this arid desert paradise. Once you've had your fill, get onto the US-191 and follow this until you can turn left onto the I-70.

From there, continue on this road past Salina until you've reached the small town of Richfield, where you'll be spending the night.

Things to explore on the way to Richfield

Apart from the Canyonlands National Park, there are tons of other open and natural spaces that are ripe for exploration on your way to Richfield. One spot you should definitely check out is Arches National Park.

Arches National Park is a truly unique protected space, most celebrated for being home to over 2000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins and giant balanced rocks. It's the spot to check-out for those that are fans of red desert landscapes—you can even take a guided tour, or simply enjoy hiking this park solo.

If you've got some more time on your hands, try exploring Moab, UT. Moab is probably most celebrated for being located close to the Moab Desert, a stunning barren desert landscape.

That being said, the city itself also boasts lots of attractions, including some unique restaurants and cute shops that'll be a welcome urban experience after a few days of driving through the desert.

Where to stay in Richfield: a comfortable stop

More a stopover city than a destination, Richfield still manages to some really unique attractions, including the Richfield tabernacle (often visited by the Utah Symphony and Opera Company) as well as lots of shopping opportunities.

Our favourite accommodation out of the somewhat limited selection in this area is the Holiday Inn Express Richfield, a classic road trip hotel . Unfussy and highly reviewed, the Holiday Inn Express boasts an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as a fitness centre, where you can burn off some steam after a day of driving.

Best of all, this hotel offers a deluxe continental breakfast, serving cinnamon buns, eggs and baked goods – eat breakfast there, then pack yourself some food for the journey.

Day 7: Driving from Richfield to Las Vegas

On this last day, you'll be driving about 330 miles from Richfield all the way back home to Las Vegas. This drive should take you just over 5 hours and will get you back home in time for dinner.

Road trip route from Richfield to Las Vegas

The drive from Richfield to Las Vegas includes several stops at stunning protected spaces along the way, including Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park.

The route itself is pretty simple: follow the US-89 to Bryce Canyon and Dixie National Forest, where we definitely recommend you take some time to explore. Once you've had your fill of this arid paradise, hop back into the car and onto the I-15 which will take you to Zion National Park.

Explore this stunning green space before heading back on the road, once again hopping onto the I-15 which will take you straight back home to Las Vegas.

Things to explore on the way back to Las Vegas

One of Utah's most celebrated national parks, Zion National Park is probably best known for Zion Canyon, an expansive canyon that averages at 2000 feet deep and offers some unique hiking opportunities. There's also the nearby Virgin River, where you can go for a swim.

Though we could definitely spend a whole day exploring Zion National Park, nearby Dixie National Forest is also worth checking out. Known for sandstone formations, this park is also viewable view a scenic drive called Hell's Backbone.

Things to see on a 7-day road trip from Las Vegas

We've detailed some of the many attractions along your route above, but here are some additional museums, monuments and other attractions that will enrich your already wonderful trip.

• Lava River Cave – Discover this mile-long underground tunnel, created by a river of lava over 700,000 years ago and located about an hour from the Grand Canyon.
• Museum of Northern Arizona – This museum boasts tons of exhibits dating back to 15,000 BC and which explore the rich history of the state of Arizona.
• Petrified Forest National Park – The name says it all: this unique forest boasts the world's largest collection of petrified wood, some of which date back millions of years.
• National Museum of Nuclear Science & History – If you're curious about the history of nuclear power and the development of nuclear science, we recommend checking out this unique museum.
• National Scouting Museum – Check out this unique museum, featuring some artworks by American painter Norman Rockwell as well as hands-on exhibits and artifacts relating to the Boy Scouts of America.
• Pioneer Town – Located in Cedaredge Colorado, Pioneer Town spans five acres and is comprised of twenty buildings that are dedicated to recreating life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Adds about two hours driving to your route, but well worth it!
• Giant Soda Cans – This one's a quickie, but a must-see: the Giant Soda Cans are a favourite roadie attraction and are comprised of massive tanks painted to resemble some familiar soda drinks.
• Parowan Gap Petroglyphs – Discover these Native American Petroglyphs, which scientists believe are over 1000 years old!
• Temple of Sinawava – Located within Zion National Park, the Temple of Sinawava is a natural amphitheater complete with waterfalls and flower gardens.
• Moqui Cave – Check out Moqui Cave, once a speakeasy but now offering exhibits on natural history and boasting a great rock collection and gift shop.

Best time to go on a 7-day road trip from Las Vegas

While this area is certainly worth exploring any time of year, we recommend taking this road trip during the fall and spring months, when you'll be able to avoid the scorching hot desert temperatures or the significant snowfall in higher-altitude locations.

Traveling in winter

Winter is a great time to take this road trip if you're comfortable dealing with some snow, particularly in towns like Flagstaff which are known to see over 100 inches of snow a year. That being said, you might find that prices for lodging are slightly lower as a result.

You will be traveling through Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah. While the southern states tend to be warmer during the winter, with temperatures in Arizona reaching high 60 degrees Fahrenheit even in winter.

However, it is a good idea to bring some chain and winter tires with you, which will be especially helpful as you cross Colorado.

Traveling in summer

This collection of states—Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Nevada—are known to get quite hot during the summer, with temperatures in certain areas exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're particularly sensitive to the heat we recommend avoiding traveling during the summer.

While it does get quite hot, you can still expect some traffic in the National Parks, and as a result, some of the accommodation prices may be higher.

Traveling in spring and fall

Spring and fall are both great times to take on this trip--you'll find that there are fewer tourists and more affordable accommodations, but the weather is still relatively warm, meaning you'll be able to enjoy the natural landscapes and deserts.

And if you're looking to experience some memorable events, try taking this road trip during one of the following events: The Grand Canyon Music Festival, Fiestas Santa Fe, the New Mexico State Fair, Moab Folk Festival and the Red Rocks Arts Festival.

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The Best 5 Day Road Trip from Las Vegas

In Destinations , Traveling Atlas , United States by Brandon Copeland September 20, 2018 2 Comments

Why You Should Take a Road Trip out of Las Vegas

Las Vegas is an obvious destination for a bachelor party or a wild getaway, but it also functions as an incredible landing pad for a road trip. That being the case, we highly advise experiencing the “thrills” of Vegas AFTER the road trip, that way you aren’t feeling groggy and ill inspired before jumping in the car.

McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas is home to 11 different car rental services and it is open 24 hours a day. Therefore, you can shop around to get a decent deal for a car and be able to pick it up whenever you arrive, no matter the hour.

We rented a large SUV because we were traveling with 4 people and everyone’s camping gear had to fit in the back. The SUV was absolutely perfect; if you are worried about space, upgrade if the price difference isn’t too much, it’s worth it. We definitely suggest getting a car that has a GPS installed because when your cell phone service goes out, the car’s GPS will be able to lead you onward.

Our flight arrived into Vegas around midnight; we picked up our car from the airport, and stayed in an  affordable Airbnb  that was $100 dollars ($25 when split between 4 people!) just for the night in the Southeast of Las Vegas. This was great because we were able to get a good night sleep, go shopping at a super market in the morning to stock up for the first leg of the trip, cook breakfast,  and pack sandwiches for the car ride.

Day 1: Drive from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon

On the morning of our first day, after we did our shopping and finished breakfast, we checked out of our Airbnb and hit the road. Our first stop was to pick up our camping gear from Desert Adventures . Their rentals were very reasonably priced and the location was ideal for a road trip from Las Vegas, located Southeast of Las Vegas.

Camping Rental List for 4 People

• 2 Tents (First 2 days – $40, Each additional day – $5 per tent)
• 4 Sleeping bags (First 2 days – $18, Each additional day – $2 per sleeping bag)
• 4 Sleeping pads (First 2 days – $10, Each additional day – $2 per sleeping pad)
• 1 Cookset Basecamp (First 2 days – $20, Each additional day – $5 for the set)
• 4 Folding chairs (First 2 days – $5, Each additional day – $2 per chair)
• 1 Roll table (First 2 days – $10, Each additional day – $2 per roll table)

Once we had the car masterfully packed up, we headed for our first fun stop of the road trip; the Hoover Dam. Located just over a half an hour east of Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is a must see. We drove across the dam (keep your eyes on the road – you’ll be back on foot!) and found a parking lot about a 10 minute walk away.

There are plenty of companies where you can buy tours of the Hoover Dam, but we decided against it – we just wanted to walk around and soak in the immense mass of concrete. A tour would have been amazing but we were all just too excited to get to the Grand Canyon.

Once we had our fill of pictures, we walked back to the car and began the 4 hour drive to the Grand Canyon. To break up the drive, we impulsively made a stop at an amazing town called Williams which is located around Historic Route 66. The feeling of nostalgia was alive in this now relatively quiet town, but I could only imagine what it must have been like in its hay day.

In the town, we found Grand Canyon Brewing Company which is one of the coolest breweries any of us had visited. The brewery taproom was decorated like a lodge with beautiful woodwork, a fireplace, and had a mini river running through the middle of the room. However, our favorite part of the brewery was their prices – coming from New York it was so affordable! We all vowed to go back one day.

The rest of the drive was only an hour, and we made it just in time for a sunset hike to Shoshone Point. We spent two nights in the Grand Canyon, hiking during the day and sitting by the campfire at night telling stories. If you want more information on camping and hiking in the Grand Canyon, click here .

Day 3: Drive from Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon

After spending two incredible nights at the Grand Canyon, we broke down our tents, jammed the car full (less successfully than the first day when everything was nicely packed) and headed out. We took one last look at the Grand Canyon at sunrise and then ventured on to our next destination; Bryce Canyon.

The drive between the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon is about 5 hours, so similar to the first day we added a stop, this time Antelope Canyon which is 2 and a half hours from the Grand Canyon South Rim and is located very near Page, Arizona. This is where we ran into our first hiccup.

If you are planning on visiting Antelope Canyon, book a tour ahead of time . To see Antelope Canyon, you must be on a tour due to the limited space available within the canyon. We were not aware of this and were unable to book a tour for the same day. We were bummed out, but thankfully there is another natural wonder only ten minutes away; Horseshoe Bend!

We drove over to Horseshoe Bend which is free to the public and you are not required to book a tour. There is a large parking lot where you can leave your car (if it’s full you can park on the side of the road) and take the small hike up to the bend. We spent about an hour there taking pictures and walking around, which is all the time you really need to sufficiently see it all.

From Horseshoe Bend we decided to take a stop in Page, Arizona at State 48 Tavern to have a beer and a bite to eat. We sat at the bar and had a nice, relaxing stop which was much needed before jumping back in the car for the 2 and a half hour drive to Bryce Canyon. If you want more information about how to spend one full day and night in Bryce Canyon, click here .

Day 4: Drive from Bryce Canyon to Zion Canyon

After spending a full day in Bryce Canyon on the 4 th day, we headed to Zion Canyon for our last national park stop of the road trip. We were comfortable spending a good portion of the morning in Bryce Canyon because the drive is only an hour and a half to Zion.

Entering Zion from the east on Route 9 is an experience you will never forget. Between the unforgettable cliffs rising all around you to the 1.1 mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel which is literally carved through a mountain. You’ll want to be awake for this one! (If you’re driving, you should always be awake, guys – this was meant for weary passengers.)

We spent two nights in Zion and went on many incredible hikes! If you would like more information on camping and hiking in Zion over 2 days, click here .

Day 6: Return to Las Vegas

We don’t really count day 6 as part of the road trip because while it’s just the journey back to Vegas which is a short 2 and a half hour drive. This will either begin your Las Vegas adventure or it will mean going back home. The last thing we had to do was return our rental camping equipment and drop off the car back at the airport. Successful road trip through three of the most amazing national parks in the US!

To make our flights out to Las Vegas worthwhile, we added 4 nights in Las Vegas to the end of our trip. Looking back, 4 nights may have been excessive in Sin City – I think we would have survived with just 2 nights.

Helpful Tips for Your Road Trip from Las Vegas

• Always have water with you, even if you have been told that a campsite has water. In our experience in late March / early April, water was scarce in campgrounds and we had to rely on gallon jugs from the store. Also, bring plenty of water on your hikes – it gets scorching hot.
• Make sure to fill up on gas whenever you are about to go a long stretch of the journey because gas stations are few and far between. As long as you manage your gas well you shouldn’t have any problems, none of the drives are terribly long as long as you break them up.
• Rent camping gear if you plan on camping in the parks – it is very affordable and then you don’t have to worry about trying to get your tent poles through security at the airport.

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Thank you for sharing your trip and such good tips and pointers! We are heading out there in March, and planning a similar trip.

Hope you enjoy!

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3 Unforgettable Weekend Road Trips from Las Vegas 2024

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So I am going to assume that you are in Vegas (or planning a trip soon) and looking for a little adventure while you are here. We visit Las Vegas with our kids regularly, so I know full well that Las Vegas is a vacation destination unto itself with about a million different things to keep you busy.

But I want to let you in on a little secret.

If you are in town long enough and you have the opportunity, I would strongly consider planning some road trips from Las Vegas to the amazing nearby National Parks or quirky ghost towns along Route 66. And the good news is, if you flew into Vegas and want to explore the Southwest it’s really, really simple to find a rental car for a few days – Click here to reserve .

The countryside that surrounds Las Vegas is so serene and is one of the most gorgeous places you’ll ever see.

This wide-open desert region is an especially unique sight for folks coming from the East Coast or from other countries that lack deserts like these. Here is a short list of just some of the natural wonders and national parks surrounding Las Vegas: Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon, Zion, Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, Valley of Fire, and several more!

If you have a bunch of kids with you (like we do!), you can rent a minivan and take a family road trip together to get away from Vegas for a few days to experience the majestic desert and open road together. Another great option is to rent a 7-seater at  Rental24h.com  for a relaxing trip for a large family.

Related Post: See our list of the top kids’ toys for car rides

Or if it is just you and your friends (or your significant other), why not rent a luxury sports car from a place like Miles Car Rental (I mean, you’re in Vegas, right!?). Either way what I am trying to say is that no matter your situation, you should go out and get some wheels and spend a few days away from Vegas while you’re in town.

In this article, I provide 3 road trip itineraries which all start (and end) in Las Vegas and take about 2-3 days to finish. Keep reading and we will explain why you should visit these places, where you should consider staying, and provide a list of fun activities to do on your Las Vegas road trip!

View this post as a Google Web Story, here: Las Vegas Road Trips

Road Trips From Las Vegas

Here are the 3 road trip itineraries in this article. You can click a title to jump ahead.

1. Oatman, AZ – Topock, AZ

2. zion national park, ut, 3. williams, az – grand canyon south rim.

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Road Trip Option #1 – Oatman & Topock

Day 1: morning drive from las vegas to oatman, az.

Distance: 125 miles, or about 2.25 hours

Oatman is this cute ghost town off one of the most scenic stretches of road on historic Route 66. There are wild donkeys that literally roam the streets, an old mine to walk through, and quite a few restaurants and gift shops to keep you and your family busy for several hours exploring the city of Oatman.

We visited Oatman on our Route 66 family road trip , so you can read more details about the history of the town and our experience HERE . Needless to say, this is a unique place to visit near Vegas by car that really couldn’t be more different from the glitz and glam of Las Vegas.

You should plan to eat lunch in town and spend a few hours exploring before continuing your adventure down Route 66 to the nearby area of Needles/Topock (that you’ve probably never heard of…until now!) located on the Colorado River.

Day 1: Afternoon Drive from Oatman to Topock, AZ

Distance: 30 miles, or about 40 mins

In less than an hour you will be at your destination – a wild, pirate-themed resort situated on the Colorado River just north of popular Lake Havasu in an area called Topock. Technically, Pirate Cove Resort is just across the river and on the California side (hence the address is in the city of Needles, but this is still generally considered “Topock”.

We haven’t stayed at Pirate Cove Resort ourselves, but we got a strong recommendation to stay here from a family friend with two young children. There is so much to do here that is fun for kids and adults, with everything from water sports activities (you can rent boats and jet skis) to off-roading or just lounging by the river.

Best of all, you can stretch out and rent these cute and luxurious cabins with multiple bedroom and bathrooms, washer/drying, fridge and kitchen, and a beach patio with BBQ and nice views of the river.

Day 2: Hang out in Topock !

It’s time to choose some exciting outdoor activities, or you can simply choose to relax. They have a pirate themed restaurant on-site with live music, so be sure to enjoy at least one meal their during your stay! There are more than enough options to have a remarkable day away from Vegas.

Day 3: Drive back to Vegas

Distance: 155 miles, or about 3 hours

On your scenic drive back to Las Vegas in time for dinner and show , or you can stop by other interesting cities for lunch or to explore for a few hours.

Laughlin AZ is a fun town on the border of Nevada and California with resorts and casinos somewhat reminiscent of Vegas but with a small town feel.

Kingman AZ is a classic Route 66 stop with retro diners and a historic downtown district that is worth seeing to remember the good ole days of the Mother Road (i.e. Route 66).

Road Trip Option #2: Zion National Park, UT

Day 1: morning drive from vegas to st. george, utah.

Distance: 120 miles, or about 2 hours

On the first day of this 3-day road trip from Vegas, you will first drive a couple hours across the state line of Arizona and then Utah to reach the small town of St George. I recommend grabbing lunch in town and there are a few nice upscale options like Painted Pony Restaurant and Cliffside Restaurant , or you can grab a cheap bite at the local Cracker Barrel.

Next, you will drive less than 10 minutes to reach the Pioneer Hills Trailhead at the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area for a short afternoon hike. Enjoy the scenery of this mild hike and take some lovely photos of yourself in the great outdoors with red sand and distinct desert plants and animals. Just remember to bring some bottled water!

Day 1: Evening drive from St. George to Zion

Distance: 40 miles, or about 45 mins

After your hike at Red Cliffs, you will drive for less than an hour to reach your hotel near Zion National Park. There are several great-looking hotels and lodges near the park entrance including Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites, which we would recommend since Best Western is basically our favorite “go-to” family-friendly hotel chain for road trips (click that link to find out all the reasons why!). It also reminds me of one of our favorites, the BW hotel in Williams Arizona .

Depending on the time of year, you may also want to glamp and soak up your outdoor adventure in Zion. If you would like to know where you can have an amazing glamping experience, check out my post, Mind-Blowing Glamping Sites in Zion National Park .

Day 2: Explore Zion National Park

Today you will spend the whole day at Zion, which is a national treasure and one of the most beautiful places you will ever see. You might want to start at Zion Canyon Visitor Center (just a mile or so from the BW or other nearby hotels) to get the lay of the land. And be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of snacks and water!

You won’t want to miss seeing the Narrows, which is a popular spot for instagram-envy photos, and don’t skip on the Canyon overlook trail, which will lead you to a place with an epic view of Zion Canyon. It is only a 1 mile hike round trip, so most people should be able to reach this point with no problem (which also means it could be busy with tourists depending on time of year).

Distance: 160 miles, or about 2.75 hours

On the way back to Vegas, you may want to stop for lunch in Mesquite, Nevada. It is a small town with a few casinos and an amazing Golf Course called Wolf Creek (if that is your sort of thing) that my husband has played several times over the years with his family.

Road Trip Option #3: Williams – Grand Canyon

Day 1: morning drive along historic route 66 to williams, az.

Distance: 220 miles, or about 3.5 hours

So Williams, AZ is called “the gateway to the Grand Canyon” and it really is the place you want to be to explore the southern rim of the Grand Canyon . The drive from Vegas to Williams is quite long if you choose do it all in one shot, but it is beautiful for significant stretches of roadway. There are actually two ways you can go, depending on your patience level:

• You can take the faster, smoother route on Highway 40
• You can actually take an old section of Route 66 through Hackberry, Peach Springs, and Seligman

When you arrive to the high desert where Williams lives, you will be greeted by a beautiful Ponderosa Pine forest and fresh air. We have stayed in Williams on two occasions, the first to do the Polar Express Train Ride in which we stayed at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and the second on our Route 66 road trip in which we stayed at the Best Western Plus Inn of Williams . We can highly recommend both hotels (as you can see in the video below)!

If you would like to stay in Grand Canyon, I have put together some awesome glamping sites you may want to check out, Grand Canyon Glamping Sites .

Day 2: Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim

Distance 60 miles, about 1 hour (if you choose to drive it)

Ok, today is an exciting day of sightseeing! Plan to wake up bright and early to make the train ride from Williams Station/Grand Canyon Depot into the Grand Canyon. As an alternative you can drive there, but why would you want to do that when you can take a historic train ride! This is a great family-friendly ride that involves live music entertainment and a mock robbery by friendly cowboys on the way back to Williams

The views of the South Rim are just spectacular. I think this photo speaks for itself, which is one we took on our latest trip there.

There are a few places to grab food at the South Rim before you set out on a hike or other adventure. We enjoyed views of the Canyon while eating a full service meal at the Arizona Steakhouse in the Bright Angel Lodge .

Be sure to leave a few minutes at the end of your visit (before the train picks up) to tour the historic and classy El Tovar Hotel.

If you chose not to take the scenic Route 66 on the way from Vegas to Williams, now is your chance to check it out on the way back. For example, in Peach Springs you can check out the Grand Canyon Caverns, which are the largest dry caverns in the U.S. In Hackberry you can bathe in Route 66 nostalgia at the Hackberry General Store. It’s a bit rough and windy, but it is a very pretty and pleasant drive if you are not in a hurry.

That’s A Wrap!

I hope you enjoyed learning about three different 3-day road trip itineraries to take you from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas to the majestic natural wonders of the Southwestern American Desert. If you are visiting Las Vegas with kids, we have a ton of content to help you plan the perfect family trip to Vegas as well as more of Nevada family fun .

Disclaimer : Links in this page are meant to help you find relevant information and book attractions easier by linking directly to specific pages on partner websites (i.e. TripAdvisor, Vegas.com). If you click a link, we may earn a small commission on transactions. This helps support the cost of running our website, and it adds absolutely no extra cost to you as the consumer. Thank you, we appreciate your support! You can read more on our disclosure policy .

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I am a busy mama with 3 delicious babies and a serious itch for travel and writing (when I am not bartending, that is)! After graduating from Cal State San Marcos with a B.A. in Communications, I decided to start a family and pursue a career in freelance writing. I created HotMamaTravel as an outlet to do what I love while sharing useful travel tips and inspiration with others. Our mission is to show parents how to master travel with kids, while keeping your Saturday-night selves. We call it "Family travel...with a twist".

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As long as your car is in tip-top shape, driving to spots like the ones you featured should be a stress-free and enjoyable experience!

Yep, and you can always rent a car if you don’t want to worry about your own car. I’m all about keeping travel as easy as possible.

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Directory of all Day Trips >

Easy One-Day Road Trips from Las Vegas by Megan Edwards

Yes, Las Vegas is a great destination, and of course there's no reason to leave the Strip once you get there. But if you've got time, wheels and a yen to explore a bit beyond the neon, Las Vegas is also a great starting point for a wide variety of one-day or overnight road trips. Here are six routes that will transport you to the wild wonders surrounding the southern tip of Nevada and still get you back on the Strip in time for dinner and a show.

Valley of Fire

Northeast of Las Vegas is Nevada's first state park, Valley of Fire . Named for its flaming red-rock spires, the park is also home to other spectacular rock formations. While it's best to set aside a full day for exploring the park, a road-trip tour from Las Vegas can be completed in four hours. Often used for filming car commercials, Valley of Fire is one of the most photogenic areas in the West. It's impossible to take a bad picture here, but for truly spectacular images, time your trip so that you're in the valley at dawn or sunset. For excellent photos in late afternoon, drive out the short gravel road to Fire Canyon/Silica Dome. Early morning is a great time to grab awesome "road shots" from the

Dining opportunities are scarce on this route, although there is a coffee shop at the Moapa Paiute Travel Plaza at the turnoff for Valley of Fire from Interstate Highway 15. Bring your own food and you can picnic at one of the many scenic picnic areas inside the state park.

Death Valley Not everyone realizes just how accessible Death Valley is from Las Vegas. In less than three hours, you can arrive at Furnace Creek, the major crossroads in Death Valley National Park. Furnace Creek offers everything from world-class dining at the historic Furnace Creek Inn to burgers and snacks at the more casual Furnace Creek Ranch. From Furnace Creek, a number of Death Valley's most famous landmarks are minutes away: Zabriskie Point, Badwater (the lowest spot in North America), Devil's Golf Course, Artist's Palette, 20-Mule Team Canyon, and Stovepipe Wells. The name of the historic Furnace Creek Inn was changed to the "Inn at Death Valley" and Furnace Creek Ranch is now known as "The Ranch at Death Valley." Undeserving of its gloomy name, Death Valley is the permanent home of hundreds of people, a variety of wildlife and-when the weather cooperates- glorious displays of springtime wildflowers. Its colorful history is revealed in displays at Furnace Creek Ranch and at the National Park Service visitor center. ( Here is a directory of some of the articles RTA has published about Death Valley .)

A weekend stay would allow you to explore some of the park's more distant attractions, like the mysterious sliding stones on the Racetrack Playa , but one day is plenty for an auto tour. If you leave Las Vegas early enough in the day, you'll have time to reach the north end of the park, where Park Service docents provide a "living history" tour of the fascinating and well-preserved Scotty's Castle . Before heading up there, top up your gas tank at Furnace Creek. The gas station at Scotty's Castle is currently closed, and the nearest gas station is about an hour away.

Zion National Park

While distance makes Zion National Park a more attractive destination for an overnight or weekend trip, 10 hours is enough to drive there, tour the park by car, and return to Las Vegas. It takes about three hours to reach the park entrance from the city. On the way, food is available in Mesquite, Nev., and in St. George, Utah.

Zion is one of those places that defies easy description. All the appropriate adjectives-"awesome," "spectacular," "magnificent"-sound like exaggerations, but in fact they don't even do it justice. With its tall golden walls, the deep canyon is like an enchanted interior -- something you'd expect to see in a "Lord of the Rings" movie. Light snowcaps make the colorful rocks beautiful in winter, but spring is just as enchanting as all the trees on the forest floor begin to leaf out. Summer offers a full green lushness and cool mountain temperatures, and in fall, the whole valley turns to gold. There is no bad time to visit Zion.

In winter, you can take the scenic route through the canyon in your own vehicle, but from the end of March through the end of October, you must take one of the Park Service's shuttle buses . Either way, you can stop at several or all of the landmarks and viewing points along the route, then return to the park entrance at your leisure. With more time, it's possible to explore other areas of the park and enjoy some of the trails to waterfalls and scenic views. The rustic and inviting Zion Lodge has rooms, cabins and a restaurant.

Red Rock Canyon

By far the closest natural wonder to Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon , which is a mere 40-minute drive from the Strip. Accessible from Blue Diamond Road on the south side of town and from Charleston Boulevard on the north, the canyon is nestled in the lower slopes of the Spring Mountains. A one-way "scenic loop" through the most picturesque rock formations is like taking a hike without ever leaving your vehicle. Even so, it's worth stopping at some of the parking areas and walking a bit for even better views and a closer look at the flora and fauna in the area. If you're lucky, you might even meet a desert tortoise. If you aren't, you can see one at the visitor center, which has excellent displays about the history, geology and wildlife of the area.

The enormous expanse of water created by Hoover Dam offers a fascinating shoreline to explore. Half a day is enough to complete a loop tour of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area , but a full day provides opportunity for a closer look at some of the man-made and natural phenomena to be found there. Two warm springs, Rogers and Blue Point, are home to small fish and relict leopard frogs. Marinas dot the edge of the lake, and several have restaurants and motels. You can rent a boat, kayak or canoe, or just sunbathe on a beach. If you're interested in archaeology, the ruins of the town of St. Thomas , which have been exposed by the declining water level in recent years, are fascinating to explore. Popular in summer with swimmers and water-skiers, Lake Mead is a great road-trip destination year-round. In the spring, brilliant wildflower displays make it especially photogenic.

Mount Charleston

Rivaling Red Rock Canyon in proximity to the city, Mount Charleston is a surprise to all those who think of Las Vegas as flat and arid. Rising to nearly 12,000 feet, Mount Charleston offers skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and a great road trip all year round. While it's best to avoid it on days with active precipitation unless you like mountain driving in rain or snow, Mount Charleston offers an alpine getaway on a par with California's Sierra Nevadas. The Mt. Charleston Hotel, situated halfway to the top of the road, has a restaurant and bar with views of the valley. At the top, the Mount Charleston Lodge also offers food and drink along with spectacular views of the peaks and canyons. A trip up Mount Charleston and back can be completed in as little as two hours from the city; a little more time will allow for exploring on foot. An easy hike to Cathedral Rock , for example, takes as little as two hours and offers even more lovely views.

What, no Grand Canyon?

As the crow flies, Grand Canyon is indeed quite close to Las Vegas, which is why you'll see all those advertisements for helicopter tours on the Strip. Driving there, however, is another story. A trip to Grand Canyon from Las Vegas cannot be completed in a day, and even an overnight trip is too short. Allow a weekend if you really want to be able to enjoy your visit.

Whenever you head out from Las Vegas, remember that you are in a desert. Never, ever travel without water, no matter what season of the year it is. If you're staying in a hotel, stop at a convenience store and buy a six-pack of bottled water per person. For more tips on outfitting a car for a desert road trip, consider this advice from the Great American RoadTrip Forum .

Megan Edwards 2/15/08 (Updated 8/12/20, RTA)

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The day trips you should take this summer (away from LA)

Santa Cruz Island

Idyllwild/pine cove, anaheim (but not disneyland), burro schmidt’s tunnel, mojave desert, big bear lake.

The best thing about living in Southern California is, of course, the nice weather. But the second best thing is being able to wake up in the city and be in the mountains or at the beach before lunch.

Don't get us wrong, we love Los Angeles, but it’s a perk that we live near so many great destinations you can visit in a day.

We compiled a short guide of two-to- three hour road trips from L.A. you could travel to get some fresh air, or enjoy a new excursion (and we have food recommendations too!).

Road time: 1.5 hours from L.A. to Ventura Harbor (or less in the morning), then a two hour ferry ride to the island.

This scenic island is part of the Channel Islands National Park that offers different expeditions — kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and camping. It’s perfect for a family road trip or a cute date. The two-hour kayak journey I did was not cheap — $205 for adults, $187 for kids — but it’s long been on my bucket list and, believe me, it's worth it. We explored sea caves and learned about the history of the island . While traveling there, dolphins might swim right next to you while on the ferry, which is amazing to see, and you may even catch a glimpse of a whale passing by. While you’re in Ventura, try to hit up the Channel Island National Park Visitors Center. And before you leave the island, after kayaking, take the short, yet slightly steep Cavern Point Loop Hike . There are amazing views. Pro-tip: leave Los Angeles early in the morning or maybe consider spending the night before in town.

— Megan Larson

Road time: 2 hours from L.A. or San Diego

This mountain community sits in the San Bernardino National Forest and was home to the Cahuilla Tribe of Indians. I visited this area when I wanted to escape the summer heat of Palm Springs (when I lived there) and feel some fresh air. Beware of the windy road (Highway 74) up the mountain. There are plenty of hikes — Tahquitz Peak and Suicide Rock — along the way to the downtown area. There’s also Lake Fulmor where you can practice your fishing skills or just do a nature walk around it. Downtown Idyllwild has several shops, eateries, a wine bar and brewery. But my pitch to you is to go to Idyllwild Pizza and go wild on the toppings. If you want a fancier meal, reserve a dinner spot at FERRO , an Italian restaurant. Don’t forget your camera — there are a lot of photo opportunities. Fun fact: The mayor of Idyllwild is Max III , a beautiful golden retriever.

— Brian De Los Santos

Road time: An hour or so from L.A.

There are more things to see in Anaheim than just Disneyland — not a lot, but some! I’d recommend a brewery tour, there are a lot of good ones: Radiant Brewery on Lincoln Avenue (check their food truck schedule, if it’s a day without trucks grab some food at Cortina’s Italian Market or Kareem’s Falafel nearby); then in the Packing District area: Unsung Brewing (superhero theme), Villains Brewing Co., Monkish Brewing, plus more in more industrial parts of town. For wine head to Colony Wine Merchant , which has a great wine selection and really good small bites. If you’re a cocktail drinker, Poppy & Seed, Strongwater (tiki bar) or Hammer Bar in the Packing House are good spots.

If booze isn’t your thing, at Founders Park you can see a couple of the oldest homes in Anaheim and a huge fig tree that’s been there since the 1800s — it was used as the model for the Swiss Family Robinson/Tarzan treehouse in Disneyland.

Free activity: At nearby Pearson Park there are cover band concerts on Saturdays in the summers, and family friendly shows at the amphitheater on Friday nights.

— Monica Bushman

Road time: 3 hours away

This may not be the typical road trip idea, but it’s definitely something to check out if you find yourself in the Mojave Desert. Burro Schmidt’s Tunnel is a man-made cave that’s a little over 2,000 feet deep. William “Burro” Schmidt burrowed through Copper Mountain in the early 1900s when California mining was booming. He wanted to create a shortcut through the mountain and spent 33 years digging through the rock. I visited the tunnel the first time because I wanted to cool down from my West Adams apartment during a scorching heatwave. And yes, it was way cooler in that cave.

Once you’ve cooled off, drive another half hour or so North up the 394 to find Fossil Falls , the remnants of where the Owens River used to flow during the end of the last glacial period. The Mojave desert floor suddenly opens into a wide ravine, revealing a massive and beautifully carved basalt canyon. Its smooth gray surface is in such stark contrast with the field of sharp lava rock and dry desert sand around it. It’s like wandering onto the moon!

— Evan Jacoby

From How to LA listeners

Road time: 2 hours

I know many people coincide Big Bear Lake with the snow and winter, but it’s also a good time during the summer. Rent a boat and spend some time in the water — cruising down the lake can be a very relaxing experience.

Food recommendations: The Grizzly Manor Cafe for lunch, and Fire Rock Burgers and Brews to grab a pilsner.

— Abraham Marquez

Traveling to Ojai, from the 101 or the 5 freeways, is an experience in itself — small little forests, fields of orange trees, a setting outside the city. It’s a small town surrounded by a valley. There are a lot of family-owned businesses that make up Ojai Avenue. And the region was featured in Easy A , the movie featuring Emma Stone. My recommendations for food and drinks are Osteria Monte Grapa for delicious Italian and Majestic Oak Vineyard for some wine tasting.

Must do: Catch the sunset in Ojai, it’ll make the day trip outside of L.A. worth it.

— Pedro Lemus