13 Awesome Places To Visit Near Las Vegas By Car
If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas, you know it’s a city full of excitement, neon lights, and endless entertainment. But if you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Strip, there are some incredible places to visit near Las Vegas that will take you away from the crowds and show you a different side of the desert.
From natural wonders like the Grand Canyon to charming little towns brimming with history, there’s so much to explore just a short drive away. So, buckle up, because we’re about to uncover some of the best nearby spots that will make your trip to Sin City even more unforgettable.
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Places To Visit Near Las Vegas By Car: What to Know
To facilitate navigation, we have separated the following destinations into two categories: longer road trips from nearby and Las Vegas, which is one to six hours distant with average traffic attractions to Las Vegas (one hour or less away).
You may find dozens of interesting sites to explore near Las Vegas by automobile, ranging from day trips to the neighboring natural areas to unique attractions just outside of Sin City. See places to visit near Las Vegas by car, Nevada, by reading on! I hope you stick around to the very end.
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13 Places To Visit Near Las Vegas By Car
Las Vegas is a center for glitz and glamour, but just outside the city limits, Nevada transforms into a vast wonderland of natural beauty and historic intrigue. Here are 13 amazing places to visit near Las Vegas by car:
1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Finding the crowds and neon lights at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a geological wonderland just 19 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. Hike through dramatic sandstone canyons, go rock climbing or take a scenic drive along the 13-mile loop.
Location: Located 19 miles (30 km) west of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Cost:
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- Entrance Fee: $15 per vehicle, $10 per motorcycle, $5 per individual (entrance fee valid for one day)
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 annual pass for entrance to all federal fee sites
How to Reach:
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- Car: From Las Vegas, take Interstate 95 (I-95) north for about 6 miles (9.7 km) to Exit 17. Follow the signs for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
- Public Transportation: The Las Vegas RTC Bus Route 109 stops at the visitor centre a few times a day, but the schedule is limited. It’s more convenient to drive or take a taxi/rideshare.
What to Expect: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area boasts a dramatic desert landscape with towering red sandstone cliffs, canyons, and ancient plant life. Visitors can enjoy:
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- Scenic Drives: Take the 13-mile scenic drive with pullouts for viewing, photography, and short hikes. There are also self-guided interpretive tours available.
- Hiking: There are over 40 trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular trails include Calico Hills Trail, Gateway Canyon Trail, and Fossil Ridge Trail.
- Visitor Center: The visitor centre offers exhibits on the geology, plants, and animals of the area. There’s also a bookstore and a gift shop.
- Rock Climbing: Red Rock Canyon is a world-renowned rock climbing destination, with routes for all skill levels. Permits are required.
Best Time to Visit: Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) are the best times to visit the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. There are fewer crowds than in the summer, and the weather is mild. Summer temperatures can soar above 100°F (37°C), making hiking and outdoor activities uncomfortable. Avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day.
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2. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Valley of Fire State Park
Witness the fiery red Aztec Sandstone formations that light up at sunrise and sunset at Valley of Fire State Park, 51 miles east of Las Vegas. Camp under the stars, hike scenic trails, or go petroglyph spotting.
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- Location: Northeast of Las Vegas
- Distance: 50 miles
- Cost: $10 entrance fee per vehicle
- How to Reach: Take I-15 N towards Salt Lake City, then follow signs for Valley of Fire State Park.
- What to Expect: Hike amidst red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic canyons.
- Best Time: October-April for pleasant weather and vibrant desert colors.
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3. Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona
Hoover Dam
A marvel of engineering, the Hoover Dam is a must-see on any Las Vegas vacation. Located 30 miles southeast of the city, the dam straddles the border between Nevada and Arizona. Take a guided tour to learn about the dam’s construction and its role in water management and power generation in the southwestern United States.
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- Location: Border between Nevada and Arizona
- Distance: 30 miles
- Cost: $30 for a guided tour (optional)
- How to Reach: Take US-93 S towards Boulder City, then follow signs for Hoover Dam.
- What to Expect: Marvel at this engineering marvel, a massive dam on the Colorado River. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and construction.
- Best Time: Year-round, but avoid peak summer heat.
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4. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Escape the desert heat and head to Lake Mead National Recreation Area, a massive reservoir on the Colorado River. Located 27 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Lake Mead offers boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities. Take a boat tour to see the dramatic Hoover Dam from a different perspective.
Location: Lake Mead National Recreation Area is located about 25 miles (40 km) east of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Cost:
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- Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle is the entrance fee, good for seven days.
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 annual pass for entrance to all federal fee sites
How to Reach:
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- Car: From Las Vegas, take Interstate 15 (I-15) south for about 20 miles (32 km) to Exit 50. Follow the signs for Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
What to Expect: Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a vast area that includes Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by volume, as well as a variety of other natural features, including:
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- Boating: Lake Mead is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. There are several marinas and boat launch ramps within the recreation area.
- Hiking: There are many hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Popular trails include the Hoover Dam Bypass Trail, the Historic Railroad Trail, and the Willow Beach Trail.
- Fishing: Lake Mead is home to a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and striper. A valid Nevada or Arizona fishing license is required.
- Hoover Dam: Hoover Dam is a spectacular feat of engineering and a popular tourist destination. Tours of the dam are available.
Best Time to Visit: Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) are the best times to visit Lake Mead National Recreation Area. There are fewer people than in the summer and the temperature is pleasant. Summertime temperatures can reach beyond 100°F (37°C), which makes going outside difficult. Don’t go there at the height of the summer.
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5. Grand Canyon National Park – West Rim
Grand Canyon National Park
While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular, the West Rim offers stunning views and a unique perspective, just 120 miles southwest of Las Vegas. Explore the canyon on a helicopter tour, hike down to the canyon floor, or walk along the glass skywalk for breathtaking views.
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- Location: North-western Arizona
- Distance: 270 miles
- Cost: $35 entrance fee per vehicle, camping fees vary
- How to Reach: Take I-40 W towards Williams, AZ, then follow signs for the South Rim Entrance Station.
- What to Expect: Witness one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World! Hike along the rim, explore viewpoints, and marvel at the vast canyon walls.
- Best Time: Spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for pleasant weather.
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6. Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park
Embark on an adventure to Death Valley National Park, the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. Located 125 miles west of Las Vegas, Death Valley is a surreal landscape of dunes, salt flats, and barren mountains. Hike through the colorful canyons, go stargazing at night, or visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
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- Location: Eastern California
- Distance: 125 miles
- Cost: $30 entrance fee per vehicle, camping fees vary
- How to Reach: Take I-15 S towards Los Angeles, then follow signs for Death Valley National Park.
- What to Expect: Explore the hottest, driest place in North America. See Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and experience the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
- Best Time: November-March for cooler temperatures.
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7. Seven Magic Mountains, Nevada
Seven Magic Mountains
See a contemporary art installation in the middle of the desert at Seven Magic Mountains, located just 10 miles south of Las Vegas. These colorful, towering rock sculptures create a striking contrast against the barren desert landscape.
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- Location: South of Las Vegas
- Distance: 30 miles
- Cost: Free to visit
- How to Reach: Take Las Vegas Blvd S towards Primm, then follow signs for Seven Magic Mountains.
- What to Expect: See a colorful art installation featuring seven giant, vibrantly colored boulders in the desert landscape.
- Best Time: Year-round, but avoid the midday heat in summer.
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8. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park
Hike through the towering sandstone cliffs and emerald canyons of Zion National Park, 165 miles northeast of Las Vegas. Take a scenic drive along Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, hike The Narrows through a slot canyon, or go stargazing away from the city lights.
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- Location: Southwestern Utah
- Distance: 165 miles
- Cost: $35 entrance fee per vehicle, camping fees vary
- How to Reach: Take I-15 N towards Salt Lake City, then follow signs for Zion National Park.
- What to Expect: Hike through towering red rock canyons, witness cascading waterfalls, and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
- Best Time: Spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and manageable crowds.
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9. Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston
Mount Charleston, a cool respite from the desert heat, offers scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a charming mountain village. Located just 35 miles northwest of Las Vegas, it’s a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.
Location: Mount Charleston lies within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Follow State Route 157 north of Las Vegas for about an hour.
Cost: Entry to Mount Charleston is free. However, there are some fees associated with specific activities:
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- Spring Mountains National Recreation Area Day Use Fee: There is a $10 per vehicle day-use fee to access developed areas within the National Recreation Area. Annual passes are also available.
- Lee Canyon Ski Resort: If you’re visiting during the winter, lift tickets and ski rentals are required for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Prices vary depending on the season, day of the week, and duration.
- Mount Charleston Lodge: This historic lodge offers overnight stays, meals, and drinks.
Here are some things to see and do in Mount Charleston:
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- Enjoy the Scenery: Take a scenic drive along Kyle Canyon Road, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley.
- Hiking and Camping: Explore miles of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy family-friendly walks to challenging treks to the peak. Several campgrounds are available for those wanting to spend the night under the stars.
- Lee Canyon Ski Resort: Hit the slopes during the winter months at Lee Canyon Ski Resort, the southernmost ski resort in the United States.
- Mount Charleston Lodge: Step back in time at the historic Mount Charleston Lodge, built in the 1930s. Enjoy a meal on the terrace with stunning views or explore the gift shop.
- Visitor Center: Learn more about the area’s history, ecology, and recreational opportunities at the informative visitor centre.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for mule deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species while exploring the area.
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10. Oatman, Arizona
Oatman
Oatman, Arizona: Take a step back in time to the Wild West in Oatman, Arizona, a historic mining town located 113 miles south of Las Vegas. Enjoy a shoot-out reenactment on the main street, feed the friendly burros that roam freely, or browse the shops for unique souvenirs.
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- Location: Northwestern Arizona
- Distance: 110 miles
- Cost: Free to visit, burros may expect a treat!
- How to Reach: Take I-40 E towards Kingman, then follow signs for Oatman.
- What to Expect: A former mining town with a wild past, now known for its friendly burros that roam freely. Enjoy quirky shops and a historic atmosphere.
- Best Time: Spring or fall for pleasant weather.
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11. Sedona, Arizona
Immerse yourself in the beauty and mysticism of Sedona, Arizona, a town known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy vortexes, 190 miles southeast of Las Vegas. Hike through the scenic canyons, go jeep riding, or visit one of the many art galleries or spas.
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- Location: Central Arizona
- Distance: 140 miles
- Cost: Free to visit, some activities may have fees
- How to Reach: Take I-40 E towards Flagstaff, then follow signs for Sedona.
- What to Expect: Immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of Sedona, known for its red rock formations, hiking trails, and art galleries.
- Best Time: March-May or September-November for comfortable hiking weather.
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12. Laughlin, Nevada
Laughlin
Is Las Vegas on a budget? Head to Laughlin, Nevada, a smaller casino town located 90 miles south of Las Vegas, on the banks of the Colorado River. Enjoy gambling, boating, and beautiful river views.
Location: Laughlin is located on the banks of the Colorado River, about 90 miles (145 km) south of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit Laughlin. However, costs will vary depending on your chosen activities (gambling, dining, entertainment, etc.).
How to Reach:
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- Car: From Las Vegas, take Interstate 15 (I-15) south for about 90 miles (145 km) to Laughlin.
- Bus: Several bus companies offer transportation from Las Vegas to Laughlin.
- Airplane: Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) has limited commercial service. Most visitors fly into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.
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13. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park, a crown jewel of Utah’s National Park system, is roughly 270 miles northeast of Las Vegas. This wonderland is famed for its otherworldly landscape dominated by crimson-hued hoodoos – tall, thin spire-like rock formations sculpted by millennia of erosion.
Cost: There’s a $35 entrance fee per vehicle valid for 7 days. Alternatively, you can purchase the America the Beautiful Annual Pass for $80, granting access to all National Parks and many federal recreation sites for a year.
How to Reach: The most scenic route is via I-15 N to UT-20 W. This winds through Zion National Park (worth a stop!) before reaching Bryce Canyon. Allow approximately 4.5 hours for the drive.
What to Expect:
- Hoodoos Galore: Bryce Canyon Amphitheater, the park’s centerpiece, boasts a mesmerizing display of hoodoos in various shapes and sizes. Hike the rim for panoramic views or delve deeper with trails like Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop.
- Starry Nights: Due to minimal light pollution, Bryce Canyon offers some of the darkest skies in the US. Gaze upon a dazzling blanket of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way.
- Rim Trail: This easy 3.5-mile path follows the rim of the canyon, offering breathtaking vistas of the hoodoos and distant plateaus.
- Bryce Amphitheater Lodge: Built in rustic National Park Service style, this historic lodge offers comfortable accommodation and a captivating setting right within the park.
- Winter Wonderland: Bryce Canyon transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities abound, and the hoodoos dusted with snow create a magical scene.
Las Vegas Must-Haves
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- Comfy Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on the Strip, so pack comfortable shoes that can withstand miles of pavement.
- Sunscreen & Hat: The desert sun is no joke, so pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the rays.
- Swimsuit: Most Las Vegas hotels have pools, and some even have pool complexes, so pack your swimsuit for a refreshing dip.
- Layers: Casinos can be quite chilly with strong air conditioning, so pack layers so you can easily adjust to temperature changes.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Save money and stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle you can refill throughout the day.
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Las Vegas: Don’t Be Caught Without
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- Cash: While most places accept credit cards, there may be times when you need cash, such as when tipping street performers or playing slots.
- Valid ID: You’ll need a valid ID to check into your hotel, gamble in casinos, and purchase alcohol.
- Entertainment Options: Research shows, concerts, or other entertainment options you might be interested in and book tickets in advance. Popular events sell out quickly.
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Las Vegas Don’t-Dos
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- Overspend: Set a budget for gambling and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and spend more than you intended.
- Free Drinks: While free drinks are plentiful in casinos, be sure to pace yourself and alternate with water to stay hydrated and avoid overindulging.
- Dehydration: The desert air can dehydrate you quickly. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your trip.
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FAQs
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Q: How far are most of these places from Las Vegas?
A: Many amazing destinations are within a 2-hour drive of Las Vegas, including Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead.
Q: What are some options for outdoor enthusiasts?
A: Hike through Red Rock Canyon, camp under the stars at Valley of Fire, boat on Lake Mead, or go stargazing at Death Valley or Zion National Park.
Q: Are there any historical sites worth visiting?
A: The Hoover Dam is a marvel of engineering, and Oatman, Arizona, is a historic Wild West town.
Q: Looking for something unique?
A: Check out the Seven Magic Mountains art installation or explore the mystical red rock formations of Sedona, Arizona.
Q: Can I gamble outside of Las Vegas?
A: Laughlin, Nevada, offers casinos and a more relaxed atmosphere on the banks of the Colorado River.
Q: What if I want to see the Grand Canyon?
A: The West Rim of the Grand Canyon is a 4-hour drive away and offers stunning views and unique experiences.
