28 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas | 2024 (with Photos)
Sin City is known for its glitz and glamour but there's much more to explore in the area surrounding Las Vegas.
With its prime location in the Southwest, Las Vegas serves as the perfect hub for day trips to stunning natural wonders and fascinating historical sites in the region.
From the ethereal beauty of Antelope Canyon to the awe-inspiring Bryce Canyon, from adventures at Red Rock Canyon to the surreal Death Valley, the 28 best day trips from Las Vegas will inspire you for a great journey through this captivating region.
Most Recommended Thing to Do
Bellagio Fountains
Top Choice Hotel
Wynn Las Vegas
Our Top Choice Restaurant
Joël Robuchon
Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife
XS Las Vegas
Best Time to Visit
Avoid summer heat, visit in spring or fall.
Average Temperature
Hot and dry climate with scorching summer temperatures.
Transportation Options
Buses, taxis, rideshares, monorail: options for transportation in Las Vegas.
Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)
$$$
My Top Recommendation
Las Vegas, known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, offers a unique experience that is sure to create unforgettable memories. With its dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere, spending time in this city is an absolute must. Whether you want to try your luck at one of the world-class casinos or indulge in the extravagant entertainment shows, Las Vegas has something for everyone.
In addition to its renowned casinos and shows, Las Vegas boasts a wide range of world-class dining options, luxury resorts, and exciting nightlife. From exploring the iconic Strip, lined with iconic hotels and resorts, to taking a scenic helicopter ride over the nearby Grand Canyon, every moment in Las Vegas is filled with excitement. With its lively energy and endless entertainment options, this city guarantees an unforgettable experience that is uniquely personal to each visitor.
What You'll Need to Bring
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight clothing
- Hat or sunglasses
- Camera or smartphone
- Cash or credit cards
- Travel documents (ID, passport)
- Swimsuit (if visiting pool areas)
- Extra batteries or portable chargers
- Snacks or water bottle
What Not to Miss
- The bustling Las Vegas Strip, famous for its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and iconic hotels and casinos.
- The Bellagio Fountains, mesmerizing water show set to music that is especially beautiful at night.
- Fremont Street Experience, a lively pedestrian mall with dazzling light shows, live music, and street performers.
- The High Roller Observation Wheel, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding desert.
- The Mob Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of organized crime in Las Vegas and the United States.
- The Neon Museum, a unique outdoor museum showcasing splendid vintage neon signs from iconic Las Vegas establishments.
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a stunning natural escape with miles of hiking trails and beautiful desert landscapes.
- The Stratosphere Tower, offering panoramic views of the city, adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, and a revolving restaurant.
- The Hoover Dam, a massive engineering marvel located just outside of Las Vegas, perfect for a day trip.
- The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, a luxurious shopping destination with a replica of Venice's iconic canals and gondola rides.
What to Avoid
- Eplore the Strip during peak hours - It gets extremely crowded and can be overwhelming.
- Don't forget to set a budget for gambling and stick to it.
- Avoid street solicitors and unsolicited giveaways.
- Be cautious with your personal belongings, as pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist areas.
- Avoid overpriced food and drinks on the Strip by exploring off-the-beaten-path dining options.
- Don't ignore the heat and forget to stay hydrated during the summer months.
- Avoid jaywalking, as Las Vegas has strict jaywalking laws.
- Be mindful of the dress code requirements for clubs and shows.
- Avoid excessive public intoxication to ensure your own safety and well-being.
- Don't overlook the hidden gems of Las Vegas beyond the Strip, such as local neighborhoods and natural attractions.
Table of Contents
1. Hoover Dam and Boulder City
Hoover Dam is one of the most iconic engineering marvels of the 20th century, standing tall on the Colorado River, 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam are easily accessible.
Boulder City, a small town near Hoover Dam, offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage architecture and quaint shops.
Visitors can also explore the Nevada State Railroad Museum and the nearby Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
2. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a protected area with towering red rock formations, expansive desert vistas, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Visitors can explore the Red Rock Canyon by hiking, rock climbing or horseback riding. The park offers guided tours for those interested in the unique geology of the Red Rock Canyon.
A trip to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the American Southwest.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Lake Mead are easily accessible.
Situated northeast of Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire State Park is approximately 55 miles away and takes about an hour to reach by car.
3. Grand Canyon National Park: South Rim and West Rim
The world-famous Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and a day trip from Las Vegas is a great way to experience it.
The Grand Canyon South Rim is the actual National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon, as well as hiking trails and scenic drives.
Alternatively, the West Rim, which is closer to Vegas, offers a more rugged and adventurous experience, with options for helicopter and ATV tours.
At almost 277 miles long, the gorge carved by the Colorado River is as deep as 18 miles in places. With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the area are easily accessible.
Taking this route also gives visitors access to the popular Skywalk attraction, a horse-shaped cantilever bridge over some of the Grand Canyon West area.
4. Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park covers 46,000 acres and offers fascinating rock formations like the Valley of Fire Beehives, Atlatl Rock, Elephant Rock**,** and the Fire Wave.
You can also explore 2000-year-old petroglyphs carved into the red sandstone formations in the Mohave Desert, and learn about the area's rich Native American history.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Valley of Fire State Park are easily accessible.
With its gorgeous landscapes, the Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best outdoor destinations in the Las Vegas area. West Entrance Station is where tours usually start.
5. Zion National Park
Zion National Park boasts sandstone cliffs, canyons, and rivers that provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Some recommended hiking spots in Zion National Park are The Narrows and Angels Landing and both are quite intense. For a more relaxing experience, try the Canyon Overlook Trail.
The first Anglo-European settlers named the area Zion, which is ancient Hebrew for ''sanctuary'' or ''refuge''.
Zion National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep and mule deer. With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Zion are easily accessible.
After you explore Zion National Park, you can drive the scenic route to Mt. Carmel along the Virgin River for stunning photo ops, and stop at the Zion National Park Visitor Center.
6. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is one of the national parks near Las Vegas and is part of the expansive Mojave Desert.
Death Valley National Park is also the largest national park in the contiguous United States and home to sand dunes, colorful rock formations, and dramatic canyons.
Visitors can go hiking and stargazing in one of the darkest night skies in the world.
Death Valley National Park is characterized by steady drought and record summer heat.
Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers, so despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Lake Mead are easily accessible.
8. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead Recreation Area is a beautiful oasis located just a 40-minute drive distance from Las Vegas. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Mead offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Lake Mead are easily accessible.
Visitors can explore the hiking trails or go boating on Lake Mead.
One of the highlights of the park is the Emerald Cave, a hidden gem accessible by boat. The cave's shimmering waters are truly a sight to behold and make for an unforgettable experience.
With their beauty and diverse array of activities, the Lake Mead Recreation area and the Emerald Cave should definitely be on your list of Las Vegas day trips.
9. Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is located within the Navajo Nation in Arizona, just a few hours' drive distance from Las Vegas.
Antelope Canyon is known for its amazing sandstone formations and the way that the light filters through the narrow passages, creating a mesmerizing display of colors and shapes.
The light filtering phenomenon is more reliable in the Upper Antelope Canyon.
Many Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon trips start from Las Vegas and include round-trip transportation and a guided visit of the canyon with a Navajo guide.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon are easily accessible.
10. Ghost Towns of Nevada
Nevada has a number of ghost towns scattered throughout the state.
Some of the most well-known ones include Rhyolite, once a booming gold mining town; Goldfield, once the largest city in Nevada and is now home to numerous abandoned mines; and Virginia City, known for its preserved Victorian architecture.
A day trip from Vegas allows visitors can explore the remains of old mines, saloons, and even the occasional cemetery.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the ghost towns are easily accessible and provide a glimpse into Nevada's colorful past.
11. Cathedral Gorge State Park
Cathedral Gorge State Park is a hidden gem located just a few hours' minute drive distance from Las Vegas., and home to towering spires, slot canyons, and other unique rock formations.
Cathedral Gorge State Park offers numerous hiking trails and places to camp overnight.
One of the highlights of the park is the Cathedral Caves, which are narrow passages between towering rock formations that create a surreal atmosphere.
Day trips to Cathedral Gorge State Park offer excellent photo opportunities and adventure.
12. Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston is a picturesque mountain range located just a short drive away from the Las Vegas Strip.
It boasts towering peaks, alpine forests, and stunning vistas. Visitors can hike or even go skiing or snowboarding during the winter months.
The mountain's cooler temperatures also provide a welcome escape from the desert heat of Las Vegas during the summer months.
One of the highlights here is the Mt. Charleston Lodge, which offers panoramic views of the area and delicious dining options.
13. Mojave National Preserve
Mojave National Preserve is a vast desert landscape and home to towering sand dunes, rugged canyons, and ancient lava fields.
Visitors can hike, take scenic drives, or even camp overnight to fully immerse themselves in the desert's natural beauty.
One of the highlights of the preserve is the Kelso Dunes, which are the tallest sand dunes in California and offer spectacular views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Mojave National Preserve day trips offer visitors something truly special.
14. Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is a unique art installation located just a short drive away from Las Vegas.
It features seven towering pillars of brightly colored rocks that create a striking and otherworldly visual display.
The artwork was created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone and has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
With its unique blend of art and nature, Seven Magic Mountains in the Mojave Desert is an ideal day trip destination that offers something truly special.
15. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is located just a few hours' drive distance from Las Vegas., making it an ideal day trip destination.
Bryce Canyon National Park has towering rock formations known as hoodoos, which create a surreal visual display.
Sunrise Point and Sunset Point give you an amazing spot to see the colorful skies.
One of the highlights of the Bryce Canyon is Thor's Hammer, a towering rock formation that resembles a giant hammer.
16. Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon
Techatticup Gold Mine at Nelson ghost town is the oldest and most famous mine in Southern Nevada.
Nelson ghost town is an abandoned mining town where visitors go back in time thanks to unaltered life scenes, including buildings, vehicles, and all sorts of yesterday's props.
Eldorado Canyon is a historic mining town dating back to the mid-1800s and is home to numerous well-preserved buildings from the mining era.
Visitors can explore the town's history, including the restored Techatticup mining town and the remains of the town's old post office.
17. Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Lake Havasu is famous for its clear blue waters and sandy beaches, which offer numerous opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Visitors can also explore the famous London Bridge, which was relocated to Lake Havasu City from England in the 1960s and has become a popular tourist attraction.
The city also offers museums, art galleries, and a vibrant downtown area with numerous shops and restaurants.
Lake Havasu City should be on your list of day trips from Las Vegas if you want to enjoy some outdoor fun and relaxation.
18. Area 51 and the Extraterrestrial Highway
Area 51, a highly classified United States Air Force facility located in the Nevada desert, has long been shrouded in mystery and conspiracy theories.
While visitors are not allowed to enter the facility itself, the surrounding area is a popular day trip destination for those interested in UFOs and government secrecy.
Visitors can visit Rachel town, with the Little A'Le'Inn and their alien burger, and head down the Extraterrestrial Highway to the Alien Research Center.
The nearby Mutant Joshua Tree Forest is also worth seeing with its Joshua trees that have been shaped by radiation from nuclear testing in the 1950s and 60s.
19. Spring Mountains National Recreation Area
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is known for its towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
The area is home to numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can also explore the area's rich history, including the remains of old mining camps and homesteads, and many of the oldest buildings in Nevada.
20. Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is a unique area located about 2 hours' drive distance from Las Vegas, Nevada.
It is a popular destination for a day trip and offers a range of activities, from hiking and camping to rock climbing and bird watching.
One of the highlights of the Red Cliffs NCA is the nearby Snow Canyon State Park.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the Red Cliffs are easily accessible.
Visitors can hike along the trails and explore scenic viewpoints. You can also see endangered desert tortoises in their natural habitat.
21. Black Canyon
If you want to get active on the waters of the Colorado River, a kayaking or rafting trip to Black Canyon is the thing to do.
The Black Canyon trip starts at Willow Beach, a pleasant water sports area situated 50 kilometers from Vegas. With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Black Canyon are easily accessible.
You can relax on the shores of the Colorado River and paddle as far as the colorful Emerald Cave, about two miles from Willow Beach.
Several hiking trails in the area offer stunning views of the canyon, such as the Historic Railroad Trail, which follows the path of an old railroad used during the construction of the Hoover Dam.
22. Tecopa Hot Springs
Tecopa Hot Springs is a unique destination located just over an hour's drive distance from Las Vegas. from Las Vegas.
Visitors can soak in the therapeutic and mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have healing properties, and also enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the nearby desert landscapes.
Visitors can also check out the quirky local attractions, including the famous "alien" mailbox and the historic Tecopa Trading Post.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Tecopa Hot Springs are easily accessible.
23. Lake Las Vegas
Lake Las Vegas is a beautiful destination located only 17 miles east of the Las Vegas Strip.
The desert oasis offers a wide range of recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and even a waterpark.
You stroll along Lake Las Vegas' scenic walking trails or indulge in a round of golf at one of the world-class golf courses in the area.
You can enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled day trip from Las Vegas.
24. Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend, located near the town of Page, Arizona, is a natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Many tour operators offer day trips from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend, and an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the American Southwest.
Horseshoe Bend is a natural meander in the Colorado River that forms a horseshoe-shaped curve, and the view from the edge of the cliff is simply breathtaking.
Visitors can take a short hike to the Horseshoe Bend viewpoint for an unobstructed view of the stunning scenery.
25. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert wilderness in southeastern California, just a few hours' drive distance from Las Vegas.
It is famous for its rugged landscapes, and of course, its namesake Joshua Trees.
The park is also home to a rich array of indigenous cultures and historic sites, including ancient petroglyphs and abandoned homesteads.
Visitors can learn about the area's rich history at the park's visitor center or by taking a guided tour.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the park are easily accessible.
26. Dixie National Forest
Dixie National Forest is a beautiful natural gem in southern Utah that spans over two million acres and features diverse landscapes.
With its stunning vistas and a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, Dixie National Forest is perfect for a day trip from Las Vegas.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the area are easily accessible.
The distance from Las Vegas to Dixie National Forest is approximately 160 miles, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas.
27. Snow Canyon State Park
Known for its breathtaking scenes of red and yellow-colored sandstones, slot canyons, and petrified dunes, Snow Canyon offers a unique and mesmerizing landscape.
Snow Canyon State Park offers striking rock formations that make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the trails that wind through the park and even go horseback riding.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to Snow Canyon State Park are easily accessible.
28. An Eldorado Canyon Tour
The Eldorado Canyon day trip from Las Vegas takes you on a journey to a place that played a significant role in shaping the history of Nevada.
Just a short trip from Las Vegas, you'll find yourself immersed in the rich heritage of Eldorado Canyon, a site that once served as the bustling epicenter of the state's mining industry.
As you explore this historic destination, you'll walk in the footsteps of pioneers and miners who sought their fortunes in the abundant gold and silver mines that once thrived here.
With shuttle bus options available, day trips from Las Vegas to the canyon are easily accessible.
FAQs About Day Trips From Las Vegas
Let's also look at some frequently asked questions relating to day trips from Las Vegas.
What cities are 2 hours away from Las Vegas?
Several cities are approximately 2 hours away from Las Vegas by car.
Some of them include St. George, Utah, Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Laughlin, Nevada, California, Arizona, Utah, Needles, California, and Pahrump, Nevada.
What is there to do within 4 hours of Las Vegas?
Within a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas, there are many destinations to visit such as Grand Canyon National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Death Valley National Park, the Hoover Dam, Palm Springs, and Flagstaff.
Is a day trip from Vegas to Grand Canyon worth it?
No. A day trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon is possible but the canyon is a vast natural wonder and it can be difficult to fully appreciate it in just one day.
The Grand Canyon is a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas, so you spend a significant portion of your day in transit.
You won't have time to explore the Grand Canyon Caverns or go rafting down the Colorado River, for instance, but day trips can still be a good introduction to the area.
Can you day trip to Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. However, it is a long day trip, with a round-trip drive of around 8-9 hours, leaving only a few hours to explore the park.
Several tour companies offer day trips to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, which include transportation, guided tours, and activities like hiking or helicopter tours.
Which national parks are best for a day trip from Las Vegas?
Several national parks can be visited as a day trip from Las Vegas.
The most popular ones are Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Death Valley National Park, ****and Bryce Canyon National Park. All of them offer stunning scenery and hiking trails.
Other popular day trips from Las Vegas include Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Valley of Fire State Park, Dixie National Forest, ****Lake Mead, ****and Hoover Dam.
Summing Up: Best Day Trips from Las Vegas
Las Vegas serves as a gateway to a plethora of remarkable day trips, including the majestic Bryce Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Red Rock Canyon.
You can explore these natural wonders or take a guided tour of the ghost towns in the Mojave Desert, all within a few hours' drive from downtown Las Vegas.
A relaxing day at Lake Mead, a drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway in the Nevada Desert, or a hike into the surreal landscape of Death Valley, there's no shortage of ideas for fun day trips from Sin City.
So hit the road, visit Las Vegas, and make the most of your time in the Southwest.
