Top 5 Day Trips from Las Vegas

The world’s epicenter of extravagance, decadence and debauchery, Las Vegas attracts all kinds of gamblers and party-goers. It’s an oasis of world-class entertainment in the middle of the Nevada desert, an iconic American city if ever there was one. However, as fun as a stay in “Sin City” may be, there are also a number of amazing day trips from Las Vegas you can do.

Located a short drive from three neighboring states—Arizona, Utah and California—Las Vegas finds itself in the heart of one of the most spectacular areas in the United States. This is a place home to sensational beauty, from deep canyons to towering mountains, endless deserts and red rock formations.

These are the five best day trips from Las Vegas.

5. Red Rock Canyon

Located just west of the Las Vegas city center, this Bureau of Land Management park makes for a super-convenient getaway from the city center. As its name implies, the landscape consists of huge red boulders, rock formations, cliffs and hills. Red Rock Canyon is a rock climber’s and hiker’s paradise, attracting both amateurs and world-class athletes such as Alex Honnold (who actually lives in Las Vegas just because of this).

4. Lake Mead

Another one of those easy day trips from Las Vegas is Lake Mead. Created by the massive Hoover Dam, this artificial lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, water skiing, swimming and sunbathing. Additionally, besides vast lakes, the area also consists of mountains, canyons and cliffs of various sizes.

3. Death Valley

Holder of more than one record, Death Valley is home to North America’s lowest point and is the hottest and driest place on the continent. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit, though! In fact, as the nearest national park to Las Vegas, it’s one of the absolute best day trips. There are numerous attractions and activities, but don’t miss Zabriskie Point, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin and Artist’s Drive.

2. Zion National Park

As one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., Zion National Park is a top destination from Las Vegas. Its centerpiece is Zion Canyon, a stunning canyon carved by the Virgin River and featuring towering yellow, orange and white cliffs. It’s one of the most beautiful canyons in the Southwest. In addition to the canyon itself, you’ll also find hanging gardens, lush ponds, slot canyons and woodland in this magnificent park.

1. Grand Canyon

Arguably the most famous natural attraction in America, the Grand Canyon lies about 4.5 hours by car from Vegas. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas, but I do recommend spending at least two full days there. It’s so much than just the views from the South Rim tourist complex. There’s epic hiking, phenomenal stargazing and the sunrises and sunsets are to die for. Spending a night or two here is absolutely worth it.